Lichfield Gazette March 2015

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

MARCH 2015 ISSUE 69

Flippin’ Marvellous Pancake Races See page 44

News • Competitions • Gazette Heritage • What’s On • Dining Out

Sunday 15th March

email: lichfieldfactoryspecs@hotmail.co.uk

COLLIS

Est. 1957

TANALISED TIMBER JOISTS AVAILABLE & BALUSTRADING TANALISED POLES & RAILS. TIMBER DECKING FENCE PANELS & TRELLIS NEW LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE POSTS & GRAVEL BOARDS NEW RAILWAY SLEEPERS FROM £22.95 ALSO MET POSTS, AGGREGATES, TIMBER CUT TO SIZE FROM OUR OWN SAWMILL. Plywood, Chipboard, MDF, Glass, Hardware, Paint, Fillers, Varnish.

GREENHOUSES AS SEEN ON TV BBC’S BIG ALLOTMENT CHALLENGE

TEL: 01543 686370

SPECIAL OFFER 25% OFF ALL

TIMBER BUILDINGS Fencing and gates supplied and fitted.

Call in for no obligation quote and site visit

60 ltr Bulrush Compost 3 QUEENS DRIVE, CHASETOWN, BURNTWOOD WS7 4QF bags for £10 Monday-Friday 7.30am-5.30pm. Saturday 8am-5.30pm. Sunday 9.30am-1pm FAX: 01543 675221 email: sales@collissheds.co.uk

www.collissheds.co.uk

Page 3

CONTENTS

06 Netherstowe House Competition Win Lunch for Two (Mon-Thurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience.

24 Brideshand Revisited

By Kate Gomez of Lichfield Lore.

36 French Prisoners of War in Lichfield A fascinating new artefact at the Heritage Centre.

38 Win £100 to spend at Arthur Price!

See our competition.

44 Flippin’ Marvellous Pictures from the Pancake Races.

44

49 A helping hand with winter skin Win fabulous No 7 products.

53 What’s On/Dining Out Your guide to what’s on in Lichfield.

59 Win a Gorgeous Bouquet and Chocolates for your Mum! Courtesy of Ivison the Lichfield Florist.

CONTRIBUTORS

36

• Caz Jones

• Joss Musgrove Knibb

• Robert Yardley • Phil Preece

• Kate Gomez

• Amanda Stuart

• Alison Churchill

59 24

Contact the Gazette see page 61 Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Is that a fact?

You know I like to chew the fat in my monthly column... what a funny expression!

Apparently in the 1500s the poor of England could obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over they would hang up their bacon, to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could "bring home the bacon". They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around talking and ''chew the fat''.

In those old days, they cooked in the kitchen with a big kettle that always hung over the fire. Every day they lit the fire and added things to the pot. They ate mostly vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold overnight, and then start over the next day.

Sometimes stew had food in it that had been there for quite a while - hence the rhyme; ''Pease porridge hot, pease porridge cold, pease porridge in the pot, nine days old.''

Those with money had plates made of pewter. Pewter contains a lot of the toxic metal lead. Food with a high acid content caused some of this lead to leach out into the food, causing lead-poisoning and death. This happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400 years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous.

Loaves of bread were divided up according to status. Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or ''The Upper Crust''.

There is an old pub in Marble Arch, London, which used to have a gallows adjacent to it. Prisoners were taken to the gallows (after a fair trial of course) to be hanged.

Letter Editor A

from the

The horse-drawn dray that carried the prisoner on his final journey was accompanied by an armed guard, who would stop the dray outside the pub and ask the prisoner if he would like ‘one last drink’. If he said he would, it was referred to as “one for the road”. If he declined, that prisoner was “on the wagon”.

Most people got married in June, because they took their yearly bath in May and they still smelled pretty good by June. However, since they were starting to smell, brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. Hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.

Anyway, I can’t sit around chewing the fat, I’ve got a magazine to get sorted!

Yours truly Paul Oakley Editor

Cover by Robert Yardley

March 2015 Issue 69

ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE Lichfield Gazette is your local monthly magazine distributed to more than 18,000 homes and businesses in and around Lichfield.

Distribution area covers Lichfield City, Alrewas, Fradley, Shenstone, Hammerwich, Kings Bromley, Longdon, Burntwood, Whittington and Little Aston.

A limited number of the Lichfield Gazette are available and can be purchased at 90p from the Heritage Centre at St Mary’s in the Market Place. All proceeds go to charity.

We do not seek to sensationalise but to inform and entertain our readers.The views expressed in this magazine are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers.

Lichfield Gazette magazine is not a franchise or connected with any other publication.

Subscription service available.

£7.50 EYE TEST

Valid for one test booked on or before 8 April 2015 at discounted price of only £7.50. Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, used with other vouchers or redeemed by customers already entitled to a free NHS eye test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only. Code 10979

Page 5

WIN

FIND MINSTER THE CAT!

LUNCH

Win a Lunch for Two (Mon-Thurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience.

As the venue of choice for many milestone celebrations, such as anniversaries, birthdays and weddings, Netherstowe House Hotel and Restaurant resonates to the sound of laughter throughout the year from guests indulging in a seasonal soiree and past well known patrons who have enjoyed doing just that include Sir Roger Moore, Helen Baxindale, Barry Norman CBE, Claire Sweeny and Idris Elba to name but a few. Netherstowe House are incredibly proud to have been voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food awards, to have received an AA Rosette award for Culinary Excellence and to be recommended by the Michelin Guide. These coveted awards and accolades are testament to the dedication of their team who are incredibly passionate about delighting guests.

Express Lunch Menu: 2 Courses ~ £14.95; 3 Courses ~ £19.95 12 midday to 2:30pm (Mon - Fri), 1:00pm to 2:30pm (Sat) Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we

Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

need your help to find him. He might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than Fri 20 March to ‘Minster The Cat Competition’ PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Or by email to minsterthecat@hotmail.co.uk subject "Minster Comp". One entry only please (or disqualified). Netherstowe House is a beautifully renovated Grade II Listed property and Fine Dining Restaurant. This boutique hotel has the elegance of a fine old country house, excellent service plus the contemporary conveniences of every modern luxury you could possibly desire. The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette. Good luck!!

Congratulations to Mrs S Penfold of Alrewas Rd, Kings Bromley who spotted Minster the Cat on page 53 of the February 2015 issue of the Lichfield Gazette.

LGMAR15

Page 7

I

Lichfield Re:Cycle.

Thank you to James from Lichwheeled who got in touch recently to tell us about Lichfield Re:Cycle.

t’s been a busy few days for the Lichfield Re:Cycle bike re-use, repair and skill sharing project. I took a call last week from a local PCSO asking if we could make use of a number of unclaimed lost or stolen bikes they had. They wanted them to be used by a local project for the benefit of the community. A couple of days earlier I had seen a twitter exchange between our MP and a local man called Terry who had his bike stolen in the town. He had left his mountain bike locked up outside HSBC in the thought it would be under the gaze of the CCTV camera on the corner of the bank. Turns out it wasn’t and that probably contributed to someone thinking they could get away with cropping his lock and taking his bike.

Terry uses his bike to get to work up at Fradley and has been walking the five miles there and back for a week now. The generous donation we received couldn’t have come at a better time and we were able to offer Terry a replacement at no cost that we had cleaned and serviced. As part of our volunteer project we offer bikes to people on free long term loan for as long as they want to use them. We ask that when they have finished with them they return them so we can pass it on to someone else.

Another recipient of a bike from the same donation has been Chris.

He has scrapped his car this week as it was costing too much to run. He too works on the industrial estate in Fradley and the cost of getting a bus up there was going to put a serious dent in his wages. He’s a tall fellow but luckily we had this large frame mountain bike ready to roll.

Our project has been going for nearly a year now.Volunteers work out of their own sheds and garages, using their own tools and work on the project for free. We have attended community events and offered advice and skill sharing demonstrations as well as refurbishing and rescuing

Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

abandoned and donated bikes for re-use.

If anybody is in need of a bike we are happy to take your details and requirements and add you to our waiting list. We are always looking for volunteers to help out and donations of time, bikes and expertise would be most welcomed. You can find out more about the project on the following website or by contacting Lichwheeld. lichfieldrecycle.org.uk/

PCSO Maggie Griffiths, Inspector Rachel Joyce, recipient Terry and project volunteers Adam and Alan

Page 9

S

New Lichfield Police Base

taffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis has commented that a new police centre of excellence in Lichfield will help police turn the tables on criminals and give a better service to victims.

The base will bring investigative resources from across the south of the county including CID officers, public protection and forensic investigators together, as one of three investigative hubs across Staffordshire and Stokeon-Trent.

It will see investigators

and scientific experts working more closely to each other than ever before. The base will house the latest lab facilities for DNA and fingerprint examination, leading to the very best quality investigations.

The facility will be built on the corner of Eastern

Avenue and Stafford Road (A51) and also provide a base for the Local Policing Team who cover the Lichfield area.

Mr Ellis said: “This is about using public resources well by investing in a first rate police facility for the future and giving police the best tools to do their job. This new centre of excellence will directly benefit crime victims throughout the south of the county by bringing police expertise in investigations and forensics under one roof.”

The modern building will replace the old police station in Lichfield which is no longer fit for purpose and is due to be sold

Page 10 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

off as part of city centre redevelopment proposals. Members of the public will still be able to access the police through the front desk service at Lichfield District Council’s offices in Frog Lane.

A planning application for the Eastern Avenue site will be submitted soon following consultation with local residents. Building work is expected to start this year with the new base opening in 2016.

To find out more visit w w w. s t a f f o r d s h i r e pcc.gov.uk/transformatio n Go to the Lichfield Gazette Facebook page to read more on this story, plus a piece by the Police and Crime Commissioner on Policing plans.

Inspection Success for Highclare School T

he report of Highclare School’s very successful recent inspection is now published. Carried out by ISI, the independent schools’ inspection body, the report focussed on the whole school, which caters for boys and girls from 15 months to 18 years. All seven aspects under review were judged to be Good, whilst three were deemed to be Excellent.

In the Early Years the inspectors rated the overall quality and standards of the provision to be Outstanding.

Head, Dr Richard Luker, was delighted that the school received such a strong report and commented: “This is confirmation that the School is highly successful in meeting its aims to motivate pupils to achieve their all-round potential – something we believe to be very important. I am proud that the high quality of provision on offer at Highclare School has been validated by such a prestigious body as the ISI”.

The routine inspection initially checks for regulatory compliance and then spends time forming judgements on the quality of provision. The focus is on things like Teaching, curriculum, Leadership, Pastoral Care and Pupil Personal Development.

Inspectors commented about the whole school: “The school is successful in meeting its aim to motivate pupils to achieve their all-round potential” and “The high standards identified at the previous inspection have been maintained and successfully reflect the school’s aim to help pupils develop selfrespect and self-discipline, alongside tolerance and respect for others and the environment” “Their personal development is outstanding. Pupils leave the school extremely well equipped to become valuable citizens in the future” The report has now been published and is available on the school’s website at: www.highclareschool.co.uk.

Parents considering Highclare School for their child’s education are encouraged to speak directly to the Admissions office on 0121 386 8218.

Page 11

Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Finally, a hearing device that people actually want!

Do you have difficulty understanding conversation in noisy situations?

Nearly one in two people over the age of fifty face this challenge every single day. If this applies to you, you probably do not see yourself as a person with a hearing loss.

However, missing out on important conversations can have a big impact on your ability to stay connected with life as you know it.

Cool, new design Introducing a revolutionary device specifically designed for people who find noisy situations at work or when socializing rather challenging. Never before has a hearing device looked so good and had so much power to improve your world of understanding. Welcome to the world of Delta.

Free Hearing Tests, No Waiting List You need not wait at all to have your hearing checked professionally. We can give you a FREE test right away with one of our qualified hearing aid audiologists who will “Dear Hidden Hearing Just a short note to say how pleased I have been with the service and hearing aid I have received from you.

Since purchasing my aid almost 2 years ago it has transformed my life, I no longer feel I have to struggle or suffer embarrassment!

The Consultant Staff at the Lichfield Centre have been first class in their guidance and treatment. I cannot thank them enough for their kindness, understanding and professionalism.

I am just going through the process of purchasing my second aid and am excited to have the quality of life transformed yet again.

Look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Thank you.

J.Tilley”

also give you impartial advice on all the latest aids. Bring your partner or friend so you can both appreciate the improvement that a digital aid provides. If, after your test, you decide that you would like a hearing aid, we offer a much wider range than the NHS, so you will be able to find the one that best suits you and your budget.

And we have a choice of easy payment plans. We can usually fit a new aid within one week, so wait no longer, book your test right away. We’re open 9am to 5pm with tea, coffee and biscuits provided.

Helping People of all ages The revolutionary Delta Hearing Aid helped James overcome not only his standing loss, but also his reluctance to wear an assistive device. The Delta managed to give him new found confidence whilst changing his quality of life.

Why do people choose Hidden Hearing?

• State-of-the-art facilities • Full range of hearing aid accessories available – including landline and mobile phones, batteries and more • 90 day no quibble money back guarantee • Choosing only the best audio manufacturers to work with • Digital Hearing Aids from £599 • Fast efficient service with three full-time professional audiologists • Fellows of the Society of British Hearing Aid Audiology. With 50 years experience • Working within the community: St Giles Hospice; Help for Heroes; Hearing Dogs for Deaf People • Old hearing aids recycling for charity • Try before you buy- ask about our 3 month trial • Lifetime aftercare including home visits

Tony Vaughan RHAD FSHAA, FDSc

Frances Brown RHAD FSHAA, BABs (Hons)

For a Free Hearing Health Check contact Hidden Hearing today on

01543 262200

18 Bore Street, Lichfield WS13 6LL www.hiddenhearing.co.uk Extended 3 months trial.

Extended payments

- don’t pay until you are satisfied Page 13

Inspired Accountants MD celebrates 10 years at the helm

I

nspired Accountants’ Managing Director Paul Bulzacchelli is celebrating 10 years at the head of the Lichfield and Leicester based accountancy practice which under his leadership has undergone an extensive transformation. In the last decade Paul has been instrumental in increasing annual turnover by 300%, advising on high profile work including a recent company sale for £2.5M, conducting the Financial Audit for the Rugby Football Union for Women as well as a multitude of commercial lending deals and small business tax mitigation work.

Paul oversaw the relocation of the business to larger modern offices in Parkside Court, Lichfield and later the opening of a second office in Leicester. In 2011 he rebranded and renamed the practice.

When asked about the future, Paul said: “Medium-term I’m potentially looking to open an additional office in Birmingham, but in the immediate future I’m looking at the possibility of acquiring another practice.”

Paul Bulzacchelli is 38, lives in Little Aston, has worked in accountancy since 1995 and has been a Chartered accountant since 2003.

In the midst of death, love remains.

A gripping new book by Lichfield author Joss Musgrove Knibb

R.R.P. £9.99 Available from good bookshops including WH Smith and on amazon.co.uk

Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The Mirror of the Age

Q

uietly existing through the centuries, Lichfield Cathedral Library sits above the Chapter House and was completed in 1249. For over 700 years it has been a source of delight and wonder to its visitors, as they explored the treasures that it contained. From 11 March until 16 December 2015, the library is opening its door to the public with a series of ‘Mirror of the Age’ tours, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of medieval scholars, Royalists and Parliamentarians.

‘The Mirror of the Age Tour’ explores books and manuscripts that mirror the time in which they were written, spanning the 13th to the 18th century. These extraordinary books contain beautiful medieval illustrations, images of far-flung empires and the handwriting of kings.

Amongst the selection of items showcased on this tour are a 13th century Canon Law manuscript – the Justinian Codex, a Geneva Bible from the time of the Reformation, a manuscript containing the signature of King Charles I, and an 18th century book on the history and antiquities of Staffordshire.

Lichfield Cathedral Library really is a jewel, with a vaulted roof and a 13th century tiled floor that wouldn’t look out of place at Hogwarts! It is filled with a collection that contains both medieval texts, the St Chad’s Gospel that dates back to the 8th Century and a fantastic selection of later medieval, Renaissance, Tudor, Civil War and eighteenth and nineteenth century books. Lichfield Cathedral’s library houses some very important books, and many of the best of these are being carefully unwrapped, ready to show during these Cathedral Library Tours.

Tours take place on: Wednesday 11 March; Saturday 11 April; Wednesday 13 May; Saturday 13 June; Wednesday 24 June; Saturday 4 July; Wednesday 22 July; Saturday 15 August; Wednesday 16 September; Saturday 10 October; Wednesday 18 November; Saturday 12 December (Christmas Tour) and Wednesday 16 December (Christmas Tour).

Visitors on a library tour can now enjoy a fantastic tour package including a free tea or coffee at Chapters, The Café in The Close, and a 10% discount on purchases within the Cathedral Shop on the day of your tour.* Library tours begin at 10.30am and will last approximately 1 hour.

Tickets are priced at £18 per person and funds from the tours are used to support the maintenance and conservation of the Cathedral Library.

Previous tours have sold out, so book early to avoid disappointment!

To make your booking please visit the Cathedral Shop at No.9 The Close, Lichfield or call 01543 306150. Special tours for groups can be arranged by calling 01543 306240.

Please note that tour numbers are limited, access is limited and bags cannot be taken into the Library. *Terms and conditions apply.

Illustrations from the 13th century Justinian Codex, by kind permission of the Dean and Chapter.

Page 15

Busy Bees Training launches new office

B

usy Bees, the largest childcare provider the UK in (currently operating 237 nurseries, two children’s centres and an independent primary school), launched its brand new office and expansion in February at their offices in Shenstone, Staffordshire.

VIP guests, including Chairman of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), David Frost, Employer and Delivery Services Adviser for the Skills Funding Agency, Toni Moore and the Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Councillor David Smith, joined Busy Bees Training staff and current childcare apprentices and learners to celebrate the next step of the department’s journey.

Busy Bees has expanded its training division as a response to the need for more quality on-the-job learning. To date Busy Bees Training apprenticeships have enabled over 800 apprentices to work and progress within Busy Bees’ nurseries. Busy Bees Training will be offering even more Early Years Apprenticeship programmes and short courses to its own nursery staff and these programmes will be extended to external nursery teams in a bid to help smaller, independent nursery providers cultivate a strong, experienced workforce.

Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 17

School head cuts the ribbon at McKenzie’s

T

he principal of Lichfield’s Maple Hayes Dyslexia School, Dr Neville Brown, officially opened the city’s latest restaurant in January. McKenzie’s is now run by the family of one of Dr Neville Brown’s former pupils. Dr Neville Brown and family were guests of honour at the grand opening, where they were reunited with former student William Makin, aged 19, his mother Gaynor Maltby and step-father Mark Maltby, who now own the restaurant formerly known as Chandlers.

The family invited Dr Neville Brown to cut the ribbon because of the life-changing impact he had on William who, at the age of 10, had been unable to read or write before he started at the Abnalls Lane school. William went on to thrive, leaving at the age of 15 to study for two years at University College Birmingham for a diploma in Professional Food and Beverage.

It was three months ago that the Streetly-based family along with Gaynor’s mother Valerie Inman and friend Marie Quinn - invested and renovated the restaurant into McKenzie’s Steak House, Bar and Lounge. The restaurant’s name was chosen as it is linked to Mr Maltby’s middle name and Scottish heritage, while the stag logo was chosen as Maple Hayes Dyslexia School is set within a deer park.

Blesma Charity Quiz

A

charity quiz has been created by Lichfield resident Mr Barrie Taylor to raise funds for Blesma - the charity which supports ex-servicemen who have been made limbless or blind as a result of conflict.

All of the answers in the quiz are the names of places in Great Britain. The closing date for entries is 31st October. Whoever gets the most correct answers will receive £50 (paid for by Barrie, so all funds go to the charity).

Quiz sheets cost £1 each and can be obtained by sending a SAE and coin or cheque (payable to Blesma) to: Barrie Taylor, 23 The Spires, Lichfield, Staffs. WS14 9RP. Any donations would also be most gratefully received.

Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The Way to a Great Smile M

any of us have missing teeth.

Pregnancy, ill health, accidents or just the wear-and-tear of life can lead to the loss of one or two teeth, and if they’re not in a position where they can be seen, more often than not we don’t think about having them replaced.

A missing front or side tooth without doubt affects your smile, and affects how often and how openly you smile. Sadly, it also affects how you are perceived by others as it suggests, however wrongly, that the individual is uncaring about their appearance.

A missing tooth at the back of the mouth can also have a detrimental effect as teeth are living things that constantly shift their position and rely on the support of each other to stay firm and in position.

One missing tooth can allow the others around it to tip and tilt and become less firmly set in the jaw. It can even lead to the shrinkage of bone in the jaw and the successive loss of more and more teeth.

If you have a missing tooth in the lower jaw, the corresponding tooth that sits above it in the upper jaw can start to grow down, making chewing and movement difficult. A lost tooth can also mean that you favour one side of the mouth when chewing, leading to an eventual deepening of facial lines on the side that you use less.

In short, a lost tooth may be out of sight, but rarely should it be out of mind.

Matt Burnell BSc Hons Dip CDT RCS (Eng) is an award-winning Clinical Dental Technician and expert in his field of cosmetic dentistry. To many of us, cosmetic dentistry means veneers, or

implants, where replica teeth are secured by means of a pin that’s set into the jaw, but how many of us consider a denture as a purely cosmetic procedure?

Dentures are cosmetic. They transform the smile and are also a modern and effective way of correcting all of the problems discussed.

When clients first visit, Matt talks through with them what they would like to achieve, and there’s no rush or hard sales involved. One of the things that struck me about Matt and his team is that they show great empathy for those who are struggling with a lost tooth, or an ill-fitting denture. They understand that our teeth and our smile are very sensitive subjects, and deal with each customer or enquiry with discretion as well as professionalism.

Where necessary, they work with a client’s dentist (or can suggest a dentist who is an expert in any procedure needed) to offer each customer the most stress free and caring experience, and the results are extraordinary.

Dentures are now as life-enhancing and appearance-changing as any other form of cosmetic dentistry and so comfortable to wear and discreet that one lady has kept her new denture totally secret, even from her husband!

All people know is that she looks great!

Dentures start from as little as £550 and can last for up to 15 years. If you’re struggling with an old or ill-fitting denture, or want to explore replacing lost teeth, The Smile Centre would be delighted to talk you through your options.

AWARD WINNING

LG Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

BEFORE

AFTER

This customer rediscovered her beautiful smile, restored her confidence and she now feels she has had a new lease of life.

C. Arrive,` Paris

For a no-obligation chat, just ring Matt’s clinic on 01543 415288 The Smile Centre can be found at 46 Upper St John Street, Lichfield, WS14 9DX. www.lichfielddentureclinic.co.uk Matthew Burnell BSc (Hons) Dip CDT RCS (Eng) GDC Reg No: 123633

Page 21

Where there is NO Will – How Changes to the Intestacy Rules Affect You On 1 October 2014 new laws governing what happens to a person’s money if they die without a Will (intestate) came into force. In the biggest legal overhaul since 1925, the Inheritance and Trustees Powers Act 2014 (ITPA 2014) affects how the assets of people who die without a Will are shared between their relatives. Here, Helen Bradin, Partner at solicitors Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP, highlights the key changes: Under the Inheritance and Trustees Powers Act of 2014 spouses and civil partners have new inheritance rights, as do Helen Bradin, Partner Bradin adopted children and other family members.

Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP based on But people who live together may be alarmed Beacon Street, Lichfield. to discover that they still have no protection whatsoever.

The Big Change for Spouses and Civil Partners Married couples and civil partners without children are the most affected by the new intestacy rules. Previously, if a spouse/civil partner died and there were no children, then the first £450,000 of the estate plus half of the remainder went to the surviving spouse/civil partner. The other half was divided up between the deceased’s blood relatives such as their parents or brothers and sisters, which meant that for people with significant assets, their spouse/civil partner would only receive part of the estate and may even have to split ownership of assets such as property. Under the new rules the surviving spouse/civil partner inherits the entire estate outright.

If the deceased leaves children then the estate has to be shared between the surviving spouse/civil partner and the children. Under the old law the spouse/civil partner received everything up to £250,000 and was only entitled to a ‘life interest’ in one half of the remainder of the estate - meaning that the surviving spouse/civil partner could take income from the money but could not have the capital - with the other half going to the children. From October 2014 the surviving spouse/civil partner still takes the first £250,000 but the abolition of ‘life interest’ means they may now inherit one half of the residue as capital, with any children sharing the remaining half once they reach the age of 18.

The new rules do not affect people who die with less than £250,000 in assets.

Unmarried Couples It is important for cohabitees to be aware that the new intestacy rules do not affect them – they still get nothing where one partner dies without making a Will, irrespective of how long they have lived together. Unmarried partners are treated as single people so, for example, if one partner dies and there are children, the surviving partner gets nothing and the entire estate passes to the children. The only way to ensure that your estate goes to your partner is to either get married or to make a Will.

The Law and Adopted Children Under the old intestacy rules, if a person died leaving a child under the age of 18 who was subsequently adopted, there was a risk that the child may lose their inheritance from their natural parent. The new legislation has addressed this.

Definition of ‘Personal Chattels’ The definition of ‘personal chattels’ – personal property - also changed on 1 October 2014. The old meaning was archaic and included things like carriages, linen, horses and stable furniture! Under the new rules ‘chattels’ include anything that is not monetary, business assets or ‘held as an investment’. This could still be a grey area though as people see investments, for example collectable items of value, as different things.

The Changes and Wills Whilst the changes to the intestacy rules will help a surviving spouse or civil partner, they are no substitute for a properly drafted Will, particularly as the intestacy rules may not be the most tax efficient way to administer your estate. Also, every family situation is different and only by writing a Will can you ensure that your estate passes on to those you wish to benefit, especially important if you separate from your spouse/civil partner.

For advice on family and other legal matters contact Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP on 01543 421840 for a consultation or email hcb@btksolicitors.com

Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Make your face funny for money

H

ave some fun and help change lives with our silly Red Nose Day glasses. Specsavers in Lichfield are ready for Red Nose Day and this year, the charity is asking people up and down the country to get involved by making their faces funny for money. And we can help you do just that with these really funky and fun Red Nose Day glasses modeled by the staff of Specsavers. Red Nose Day takes place on Friday 13 March.

The glasses come in two sizes, large and small, and are available in the Lichfield store. They cost just £3, with £1 from each pair donated to Comic Relief to help poor and vulnerable people living incredibly tough lives both here in the UK and across Africa.

So get ready to make your face funny for money and help change lives.

L

Brideshand Revisited

Thanks to Kate Gomez of Lichfield Lore for this fascinating insight into a mysterious local tradition.

ast summer on Lichfield Lore I wrote about the ‘Bride’s Hand’ carved into the stonework of the south porch of St James the Great at Longdon. It’s an old tradition that brides arriving at the church would place their own hand against it, in the hope that it would bring good fortune and fertility to their impending marriage.

Apparently, some twenty-first century Longdon brides-to-be still partake in this ritual.

South porch of St James', Longdon where the carving can be found.

Recently, I was idly scrolling through Twitter when two hands, similar to the one at Longdon, grabbed my attention. The image had been taken from Timothy Easton’s article on symbols which appears in the Winter edition of the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings‘ magazine*, and the carvings themselves are to be found on the south doors of two churches in the neighbouring Gloucestershire villages of Ampney St Mary and Ampney Crucis. Until now, I wasn’t sure whether the Bride’s Hand was just a quirky bit of history unique to Longdon but the appearance of similar symbolism, in a similar position, at churches one hundred miles south of here suggests not. Timothy Easton believes that the carvings were added to send a very definite ‘Stop!’ sign to any evil spirits attempting to sneak inside.

As anyone who follows the Medieval Graffiti project (a project that discovers and catalogues graffiti carved by the medieval congregations of churches in the UK) will know, these hands are just one of the many Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

types of markings that can be found in our churches. Some were an attempt to ward off evil spirits and no doubt some were an attempt to ward off boredom. St James the Great may be filled with beautiful carvings but I can’t help being drawn to these ones that aren’t really supposed to be there. For me, a crudely etched protective symbol and Joseph Nevill’s graffiti trump grand memorials and marble tombs hands-down.

Kate Gomez

*Which their press officer very kindly sent to me after I sent an excited tweet telling them I’d seen one just like that.

In addition to writing her regular blog on Lichfield history ‘Lichfield Lore’, Kate Gomez runs the history group Lichfield Discovered.

Lichfield Discovered hold regular talks, meetings and The ‘Bride’s Hand’ Carving, St James the Great, Longdon discussions plus field-trips and visits to places of historical interest. Go to the Lichfield Discovered Tamworth Spital Chapel (with special emphasis Facebook Page and lichfieldlore.co.uk for on medieval graffiti) on March 9th at 7.30pm and a talk by local author John Gallagher on further details.

Lichfield Discovered are hosting two events Alphabetical Lichfield on Monday 13th April at in March and April – a visit (with talk) to 7.30 at St Mary’s in the Market Square.

Graffiti at St James the Great, Longdon

L

Cathedral School Celebrates Foundation Day

ichfield Cathedral School students, former students, teachers, parents and friends celebrated the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the school at a morning service in Lichfield Cathedral on Tuesday 27 January.

Headmaster, David Corran commented: “It is extremely important to know where we have come from. Foundation Day is a time to remember how the school was formed in 1942, at the height of the Second World War, and reflect on how far we have come as a school community.”

Former pupil Howard Davis OBE gave one of the readings at the service. Mr Davis joined the school in September 1942 as a chorister and now looks back on a happy and successful life rich in experiences and achievements, not least of which are his memories of the British Olympic hockey team at three successive games, Melbourne, Rome (where he was vice-captain) and Tokyo, where he captained the squad.

Former pupils, former parents and former staff are all encouraged to get back in contact with the school to share memories, photographs and stories of their time at the school, in anticipation of the 75th anniversary celebrations that will take place during 2017. Simply contact Amanda on 01543 306014 or go to www.lichfieldcathedralschool.com for more information.

Lichfield Cathedral School’s Foundation Day Service in the Cathedral. Copyright Lichfield Cathedral School.

Page 25

Obesity and disability discrimination - time to update your business policy

S

tatistics published in 2014 by the Health and Social Care Information Centre showed a marked increase in the proportion of adults who were obese between 1993 and 2012. Among men Adam Pike figures rose from 13.2 per cent to 24.4 per cent, and the figure for women rose from 16.4 per cent to 25.1 per cent.

These statistics could be significant in light of the recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling which concluded that severe obesity can fall within the definition of disability in equality law. This gives employees certain rights if treated unfairly as a result of their obesity.

Adam Pike, an employment lawyer in the dispute resolution team at Ansons Solicitors in Cannock, advises business owners on what they should do to prevent disability discrimination claims: “Businesses have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to premises or working practices where a disabled job applicant or employee is placed at a substantial disadvantage,” says Adam.

“Failing to comply with this duty is a form of disability discrimination. There is no limit to the amount of compensation that can be awarded for a successful disability discrimination claim.”

The ECJ confirmed that there is no free standing prohibition against discrimination on grounds of obesity, but concluded that severe obesity could be classed as a disability if the following factors apply: • the employee has a physical or mental impairment as a result of their obesity that results in reduced mobility or the onset of medical conditions. As such, preventing them from carrying out their work or causing discomfort when carrying out their duties; and • the effect is substantial and likely to be long-term.

Employers should be alert to the impact that obesity has on their workforce. It may be necessary to consider special allowances, known as reasonable adjustments, for certain employees who have obesity related medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or mobility problems.

What types of adjustments may a business have to make?

The reasonable adjustments businesses are required to make depends on the facts of the individual situation. Examples include: • making adjustments to premises. For example, widening a doorway or providing a ramp; • providing information in accessible formats. For instance, producing instructions and manuals in Braille or on audio tape; • reinstatement, such as reinstating an employee who resigned while depressed; • transferring a disabled employee to a new role, such as moving them to fill an existing vacancy; or • altering the disabled person’s hours of working or training. For example, permitting part-time working or different working hours to avoid the need to travel in the rush hour.

Failing to address these issues could result in employees bringing a claim for unfair dismissal or disability discrimination in the employment tribunal. This could be costly for your business as compensation for discrimination is uncapped. Getting specialist advice from an employment solicitor on your business’ disability procedures and protocol can help prevent this.

For further advice about your disability policy and procedures or disability discrimination claims, please contact Adam Pike in the dispute resolution team, on 01543 431 197 or email apike@ansonsllp.com. Ansons Solicitors has offices in Cannock and Lichfield, Staffordshire.

T

Horrible Friday 13th!

he students of Chase Grammar School voted for a Horror theme for their non-uniform day that took place on the last day before half term, which s e e m e d appropriate as it was Friday 13th!

Students each donated £1, and with the proceeds from cake sales, £323 was raised for the Build Africa Charity. Build Africa was chosen as this year's charity by the student council and will benefit from this fund raising event. More events will take place throughout the coming months.

Page 26 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

A Royal Visit for Lichfield Cathedral

G

rand celebration events are set to begin at Lichfield Cathedral to mark the completion of a 5-year, £3.7m project to renovate and restore the East End of the building – the Cathedral’s Lady Chapel. A major part of this work has been the removal, conservation and reinstallation of the famous Herkenrode Glass.

A special service will be held in the presence of HRH The Duke of Gloucester on Tuesday 10th March, 2015. This will serve to re-dedicate the Lady Chapel as well as to celebrate the return of its beautiful painted glass. HRH visited the Cathedral when the project began, taking time to climb the scaffolding and view the work in progress; he has shown a continuing interest in the project.

The Herkenrode Glass is one of Europe’s greatest artistic treasures, installed in Lichfield in 1803 when it was rescued from destruction during the Napoleonic Wars. Having withstood centuries of weather and pollution, emergency action was needed to rescue it once again and the race began to save the Lady Chapel and its priceless Renaissance glass. The glass was removed in 2010 and taken to Barley Studio where the five-year renovation project commenced.

The whole project comprised renewing and repairing stonework in the South and North Choir aisles, replacing some of the external stonework of the Lady Chapel, removing the Herkenrode glass to safe storage, installing clear isothermal glazing, the conservation and re-installation of the glass, the renewal of fabrics including kneelers, cushions, hangings, and the altar frontal. All this has been funded thanks to the generosity of donors: trusts, foundations and individuals.

More information about the Herkenrode Glass can be found on the website at www.lichfieldcathedral.org.

HRHs The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester

Page 27

Ladies Circle supports Lichfield’s Friendly Faces

L

ichfield Ladies Circle were delighted to present a cheque to Lichfield’s Friendly Faces recently. Friendly Faces group extends a welcome to a mixture of people who want to meet new friends. The group meets at Lichfield Library and offers free refreshments whilst encouraging the meeting of new people through chatting and socialising.

Michelle Crabb, who volunteers her time to run the group added: “Thank you so much for the generous donation, this will help to add happiness to the people that join us on a Monday, we play games, chat and laugh a lot over tea, cakes and biscuits. This money will enable us to enjoy at least one activity/outing a month. The group will have something else to look forward to during the month as well as our regular Monday meetings. Without this generous and kind donation we wouldn't have been able to do any of the activities on our list. We have just booked to go and see a production at the theatre with some of the money and a day trip to Trentham Gardens when the weather gets a little warmer, so thank you to Lichfield Ladies Circle for supporting us.”

Lichfield Ladies Circle meets once a fortnight on a Tuesday, if you’d like to find out more about joining in the fun, email: info@lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk call 08001488595 or visit the website at www.lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk There is a 'Friendly Face' to greet you at Lichfield Library from 1pm until 4pm every Monday.

Are you a dog person?

A snippet guide to pubs and holidays.

T

By Amanda Stuart

o say I wasn't a dog person up until April 2013 would be an understatement. The day I brought back my little puppy Reggie would be the start of something wonderful; annoying, loving, frustrating, hard work, expensive, fun, characterful - and I wouldn't change a thing! In fact, in November 2013 I added another bundle of fluff into the family in the shape of Edith.

These two little dogs would later be the inspiration for a business adventure called Edie and Reggie where we handcraft dog/cat beds both vintage and modern style, wall mounted Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Speak Up and Speak Out at Lichfield’s very own Speakers’ Corner

Here, Alison Churchill from SCL tells us a little about Speakers’ Corner Lichfield.

‘In order that all men may be taught to speak the truth, it is necessary that all likewise should learn to hear it.’

It’s no surprise that there’s a quote from that great son of Lichfield, Samuel Johnson, which captures the spirit of Speakers’ Corner. Belief in freedom of speech is a cornerstone of a civilised society, enshrined in the tradition which has given us Speakers’ Corner at Hyde Park in London.

Speakers’ Corner Lichfield was established in 2009 - only the second site outside London at that time.

Situated in Dam Street, by Minster Pool, it has quickly become a meeting place, hosting a variety of speakers and activities, some spontaneous and some part of a planned programme of events which generally take place on a Saturday at 12 noon.

Could any passing stranger fail to be moved by members of a Welsh Male Voice choir who stepped on to the stone at SCL and burst into impromptu song? What a fantastic experience it was for local sixth formers to share their views on education. Visitors to SCL have engaged in discussion on themes as diverse as violence against women, Support for Palestine, football, cycling, Conscientious Objectors, and the work of the Police Commissioner.

On April 25th, prior to the General Election in May, a People’s Hustings will be staged at SCL. Other events planned for 2015 include the marking of the 800th anniversary of the signing of Magna Carta and a celebration of Rugby to coincide with the Rugby World Cup. Find us on Facebook at Speakers’ Corner Lichfield and follow our programme of events through the What’s On pages of the Lichfield Gazette.

On Saturday 28th March at 12 noon the 2015 season of events at Speakers’ Corner Lichfield will be launched by David Moore who will be speaking about the initiative to save Sandfields Pumping Station.

bowls and our most recent Snood Scarves for dogs. You can check them out at www.edieandreggie.wix.com/petaccessories If, like me, you want your furry members of your family to come out and enjoy pubs and holidays, then you will perhaps sometimes be at a loss as to where to go. So many places have recognised this need for your dog companions to enjoy a holiday as much as you. Dog friendly websites have been set up to cater for dog lovers and the other 98% have a tick box option for dog friendly places when searching for UK holidays.

If we are out for the day - and no outing is complete without a pub lunch, I have an app on my phone that lets me know of dog friendly pubs in the area called 'Best Dog Friendly Pubs' (it's that simple). Another useful app is called 'Doggie Pubs'. I have used such websites and apps to compile a list of dog friendly pubs in Lichfield and the surrounding area.

In my opinion dog friendly pubs in Lichfield

and the surrounding area are: The George and Dragon - Lichfield, The Duke of York - Lichfield, The Queens Head - Lichfield, The Goats Head - Abbots Bromley, William IV - Abbots Bromley, Uxbridge Arms - Chasetown, Fox & Hounds Inn - Shenstone, The Malt Shovel Inn - Chorley, The Plough Inn – Huddlesford.

Please see our Facebook page for the full unabridged version of this feature – Ed.

Council Chairman visits specialist school

B

right pupils at Lichfield’s unique Maple Hayes Dyslexia School have been given the official seal of approval by Chairman of Lichfield District Council, David Smith. The school, which provides a positive and fresh approach to teaching children who are dyslexic and have been previously underachieving, welcomed Councillor Smith and his wife Gay on Friday, 6th February.

Councillor Smith was given a tour of the facilities, and found out more about the ethos of the school when he met the hard-working pupils as they were studying in their history, art and english classes. The Chairman was shown the work the pupils do and the school’s alternative way of teaching literacy which uses icons, or a ‘morphological approach’ to help children learn the formation of words, rather than phonics, which uses sounds.

Councillor Smith, said: “I have been to the school a number of times before, but this is the first time in an official capacity as chairman of Lichfield District Council.

Maple Hayes School is a jewel in the crown for our district and is an excellent place for children’s learning to flourish through the thorough understanding of dyslexia by the school’s teachers.”

Katie Maxwell, aged 11 from Cannock said: “It was really exciting to meet the chairman and tell him about the work we do in the school. He asked us about how long we had been at the school and how we found it. It was nice for him to come and meet us.”

The school, which has a roll of 120 students aged between seven and 17-years-old, was founded in 1982 by Dr Neville Brown, the school Principal.

Lichfield Project Lottery Winners

N

ew figures reveal that over £1.6m of National Lottery funding was invested in Lichfield projects last year alone. Across the city, 13 grants were awarded to a wide range of projects, including: £1.5m to Lichfield And District Community And Voluntary Sector Support (an umbrella group that provides services for local voluntary and community groups); £5,000 to Stonnall Village Hall to upgrade the heating system and £5,400 to regenerate football pitches at Shenstone Playing Fields.

These projects, or any organisation that has ever received Lottery funding, has the possibility of gaining national recognition through entering the National Lottery Awards 2015. The National Lottery Awards have seven categories to reflect the range of areas that the Lottery funds - Sport, Heritage, Arts, Environment, Health, Education and Voluntary/Charity. The winners of The National Lottery Awards will receive a £2,000 cash prize and national recognition at a star-studded ceremony broadcast on BBC One later this year. If you want to nominate your favourite project or enter your own project in this year’s National Lottery Awards, visitwww.nationallotteryawards.org.uk or call 0207 293 3599 to find out more. Entries must be received by midnight on 25 March.

J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS

NOW LICHFIELD’S ONLY FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL DIRECTORS 24 hours a day

Jonathan says: “We are a proud family business in Lichfield, we offer a wide range of choices to suit people’s requirements, including horse-drawn, all religions/non-religious catered for, floral tributes, and memorials. Also pre-paid funeral plans available.”

A truly personal service from a caring family.

TELEPHONE : 01543 255776 Situated 116 Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6TS

PARKING DIRECTLY OUTSIDE

Page 29

A Bullet and a Button - A Remarkable Story from the Great War

Dance Groups in German Carnival Celebrations

T

wo Lichfield dance groups were invited to perform in February in Lichfield’s German twin town of Limburg-an-der-Lahn. The groups took part in the city’s Carnival celebrations where the 42 dancers were also joined by a dance group from Lichfield’s French twin town of SainteFoy-Les-Lyon.

3 Spires Morris and Team Catalyst International (TCI) did Lichfield n Tuesday 3rd February 2015 Mr Philip Fairbrace visited the proud. They dressed the part, danced really well at all events and gave Staffordshire Regiment Museum and donated to their collection a great performances during the Carnival procession, cheered by a crowd remarkable artefact. This artefact is in fact two items, a bullet and a button of over 30 000 people. Both groups were given a medal by the Carnival from the tunic of Private A Davis of Wolverhampton, who served in the Prince to thank them for their participation. The Limburg hosts offered a warm welcome, great hospitality and prepared a busy programme for South Staffordshire Regiment during the Great War. their Lichfield guests.

Team Catalyst International (TCI) also took the opportunity to meet Alongside the button and bullet was a clipping from an unidentified newspaper of the time that explains the story behind these small, but with the Limburg dance school Josat-Doerr and they formalised the twinning of the two schools. They will first work together by doing significant items further. It reads… training exchanges between dance teachers and students. The first ‘It may with truth be said that the life of one of the soldiers of the King exchange should take place in October 2015. They will also look into was saved by a button. Private A Davis of Wolverhampton, while in action working on dance projects /performing together, and entering dance was wounded in the right side of his chest and is now in hospital competitions in both countries. For more details about TCI, please “somewhere in France”. The German bullet that was taken by the doctors contact the dance school Principal Mrs Cat DeBlock - Mobile: 07817 429 from the body of the gallant soldier passed clean through a button, 843 or E-mail: catdeblock@sky.com between the Crown and the Staffordshire Knot. Davis has sent the bullet and button to his Mother as a trophy which the family are proud to possess. I have seen the button and the bullet, and can only characterise the incident as a remarkable one.”

O

Mother and son star in WW1 drama

The bullet and the button were gifted to Mr Fairbrace by the late Mrs Gill Harpins – niece of Private Davis and the last of the family line. Both artefacts are now in the Museum’s collection and further research will be carried out into the service of Private Davis.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum is a great place to learn about soldiers’ lives during WW1.

On Monday 6th April the Museum will be holding a fascinating, interactive WW1 Discovery Day and Easter Trail. Uniformed members of the Museum’s education team will take you on an exciting tour of the WW1 trench system. This extraordinary 500ft trench system contains a dugout, gun positions, firing step, a first-aid position, a tunnel and even a German ‘pillbox’. Parents and children will also get the chance to try on uniforms, as well as handle weapons and equipment from the time, plus explore the Museum and its fascinating collections.

Discovery Day tours will run regularly between 11am and 3pm (last entry 3pm). Adults £5, all concessions (children under 16, senior citizens and full-time students) £4, family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £20.

WW1 Discovery Days take place on all bank holidays, every Monday during school half term holidays and every Monday during school summer holidays.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at DMS Whittington, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394. Go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com or Facebook: The Staffordshire Regiment Museum for further details.

Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

D

enise and her son Nick Baker are two of the Lichfield Players’ cast who will be performing ‘The Accrington Pals’ at the Lichfield Garrick from Tuesday 24 March.

Peter Whelan’s World War 1 play tells the moving story of the men of Accrington who enthusiastically volunteer their services in answer to Kitchener’s call for a New Army, and are sent to the front to fight. The play simultaneously focuses on the women left behind on the brink of radical change.

Nick, a year 9 pupil at King Edward VI School, Lichfield, has been studying World War 1 and is due to visit the Belgium Battlefields next month.

The Lichfield Players’ production of ‘The Accrington Pals’ opens at the Lichfield Garrick on Tuesday 24th March for a five-night run. Tickets are priced at £12 (concessions £11 and £9). To book, call the Lichfield Garrick Box Office on 01543 412121 or visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

Florette Fradley 10k is back!

F

lorette is calling out to the region’s runners as the popular Fradley 10k returns for the 15th consecutive year on Sunday 15th March.

The 10k challenge is a firm favorite with budding athletes, attracting more than 1,000 entrants each year. As headline sponsor, Fradley-based salad specialist Florette will also be entering a team into the race, with preparation for ‘Team Florette’ already well underway. Ideal for beginners through to pros, the run will start at 10:30am in Fradley village, Lichfield, covering a range of flat country roads.

The Fradley 10k has previously been nominated in the national Running Awards for the Best 10k Race. It is organised by KP Events, Lichfield, which each year, arranges a host of other running challenges across Staffordshire including the Xtreme Challenge and Lichfield half marathon.

Anyone interested in entering the Florette Fradley 10k can register at www.kpevents.net For information on Florette visit www.florettesalad.co.uk.

For tips on healthy living and recipe inspiration, become a fan on Facebook by visitingwww.Facebook.com/FloretteUK.

10% OFF WITH THIS ADVERTISMENT. Terms & conditions apply.

Page 31

The Feathers is the place to be!

HELP FOR HEROES VI

10 LIVE BANDS PERFORMING Easter Sunday 5 April. Starts Mid-day

A free annual Easter event in aid of Help For Heroes. All bands have given their time for free. Bouncy Castle, Face Painting & Stalls (enquiries welcome). Help For Heroes beer now on draught.

Created by heroes, brewed by Marston’s, enjoyed by all.

Soon available in bottles.

Free event - give generously!

• Movie Night (The Pub with a cinema) every

Monday.

• Open-Mic Night – every Tuesday all backline

and PA provided.

• Live Bands – every Friday & Saturday (see website for details) • Acoustic Night – from 8pm Sunday (alternate Acoustic Blues & Country Folk) • Great Homemade Food - Great new menu retaining some of the old favourites (baguettes are back). Service from Mon 12-3pm/5.30-8pm. Tues Thurs 12-3pm/5.30-9pm. Fri & Sat 12-9pm. Sun 126pm.

• All your favourite beers on draught

– Caskmark approved - six ales on offer, including our newly brewed “Help for Heroes” Pale ale and our very own “Spitting Feathers” golden ale as well as Marston’s Pedigree, Banks’s Mild and Bitter & Hobgoblin.

• Sky & BT Sports Multi-Screen venue.

• Calendar of Charity Events planned throughout the year! www.feathersinn.co.uk Email: thefeathersinn@btconnect.com THE FEATHERS INN 118 Beacon Street, Lichfield WS13 7BA OFF ROAD PARKING-LARGE FAMILY GARDEN FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER FREE Wi - Fi

01543 417029

FEATHERS FREE FESTIVAL

Stephen Sutton Memorial in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust.

TWO DAYS JULY 11/12 (no Fuse this year!)

Hosting up to 40 bands in Lichfield’s biggest music event of the Summer – on two stages with inside and outside bars . Bands inc. The

Party Popperz, Quintessential, Prom, The Quik, Gambler, Anker Valley Boys, Soup, Fisherwick Blues Collective.

LIVE FROM THE FEATHERS

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better… live streaming from the Feathers Inn every Tues, Fri and Sat night.

Visit the website and click ‘webcam’.

MOTHERING SUNDAY Sunday 15 March

Booking strongly advised PLUS

ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL

ST GEORGE’S DAY 23 APRIL see What’s On

– don’t miss out!

MARCH What’s On

Fri 6 - 7th Son Sat 7 - The Party Popperz Sun 8 - Jack Glass & Friends Thurs 12 - The Parlotones* Fri 13 - Soup Sat 14 - West Coast Eagles Sun 15 - Fisherwick Blues

ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL Fri 20 - The Wild Irish Sat 21 - Radio Mary Sun 22 - Jack Glass & Friends Fri 27 - Sole Destroyers Sat 28 - The Resistance Sun 29 - Fisherwick Blues *Parlotones for Teenage Cancer Trust see facing page for booking details

DUE TO INCREDIBLE DEMAND

INTERNATIONAL SUPER-GROUP TO PLAY THE FEATHERS INN LICHFIELD

As part of their UK tour the Parlotones have added The Feathers Inn, Lichfield to the tour calendar in memory of Stephen Sutton for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Tickets are limited and available for £20 + booking fee from www.bookitbee.com/e/2RMKQ. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Teenage Cancer Trust. Tickets NOT available from the Feathers

LAST F EW TICKET REMAI S NING

Fundraiser for Teenage Cancer Trust – live at the Feathers Inn on Thursday 12 March.

Wow what a coup! The Parlotones are a rock band from Johannesburg, South Africa. They have achieved multiplatinum-selling status in their home country. The band started in 1998 and were one of the headline acts at the opening ceremony of the 2010 South African World Cup. Catch them on Youtube, but better still tell your grandkids you once saw them live at the Feathers in Lichfield!

Page 34 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 35

A rare survival tells tales of the Napoleonic War

F

rench prisoners-of-war were a regular sight in Lichfield in the 18th century.

During the Napoleonic Wars there were many French prisoners held on parole, and in fact a number lie buried in St Michael’s churchyard. Anna Seward recorded the effect of the presence of these exotic foreigners: ‘On their first arrival, and indeed long afterwards, they could not pass our streets without being brutally reviled by our populace’. Anna and her friends however enjoyed their graceful manners and enlightened minds.

The Napoleonic Wars took place from 1803 to 1815. The prisoners-of-war in Lichfield were mostly officers (many from the French navy) and it is thought that they were billeted in Pipe Hill House.

On giving their word of honour that they would not escape, the prisoners were given freedom of movement within one mile of Lichfield city centre. Despite the feelings noted by Anna Seward they soon became members of local society.

Perhaps unsurprisingly they were found rather attractive by some local ladies and duels were fought. Some taught French (in fact Samuel Johnson employed a French prisoner on parole to teach his children) and others set up as artisans.

Lichfield’s position on a main road was probably the reason for its being chosen as a place to quarter the men, and French prisoners were last recorded in the city in 1812.

Visible reminders of these Catholic visitors include the purpose-built Roman Catholic chapel in Upper St John Street (originally built to look like an inconspicuous private house, for its opening in 1803 was nearly thirty years prior to the passing of the Emancipation Act in 1829). This chapel catered to a congregation that consisted mainly of French prisoners and Irish refugees. The prisoners are also commemorated in the name ‘Frenchmans Way’ (which links Station Road with Cherry Orchard) and with a small wooden box, now on display in Lichfield Heritage Centre (St Mary’s, Market Square). The box, which is a rare survival (the only other one is believed to be in a national museum) was given to Lichfield City Council in September 1943 By Sir George Hartopp Bt. of Wimbledon Common. It is now on loan to Lichfield Heritage Centre and is on display to mark the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

Film Show to Mark Anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo

The 1970 film ‘Waterloo’ starring Rod Steiger will be shown at St Mary’s on the actual anniversary of the battle - June 18th.The film includes some 15,000 Soviet foot soldiers and 2,000 cavalrymen as extras— it was said that during its making, director Sergei Bondarchuk was in command of the seventh largest army in the world. Fifty circus stunt riders were used to perform the dangerous horse falls. These numbers brought an epic quality to the battle scenes.

HERITAGE COLLECTION - The Photographic collection housed at St Mary’s in the Market Place hold 12,000 items including new and old photographs, maps, books and documents relating to Lichfield past and present – copies can be purchased.

The Photographic Collection is free to view - opening times are Mon/Wed/Fri 10.00 – 12.30. If you have any photographs etc. relating to Lichfield the collection would be grateful to receive these items for everyone to enjoy for generations to come. Call in and see the wonderful collection.

All photograph copyright of the collection.

MUSEUM – Entry to the museum is also FREE – open 9.30 – 4pm (final entry at 3.30pm)

Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 37

T

Win £100 to spend at Arthur Price!

he Lichfield Gazette has teamed up with local cutlery and gift designer Arthur Price to create yet another amazing competition. We have three £100 vouchers to spend at the Arthur Price Factory Shop located off Britannia Way in Lichfield. All you have to do is answer the questions below, send in your entry and you could be a winner!

Whether you need everyday kitchen cutlery to silver plated canteens for that special occasion Arthur price has it all. But don’t forget it’s not just about knives, forks and spoons, Arthur Price also designs a huge range of gifts from china mugs

by Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen to picture frames.

Available online at arthurprice.com and in most department stores including House of Fraser and John Lewis, you can also get everything you need, for less, at the Arthur Price Factory Shop.

Perfect Timing – The Arthur Price Factory Sale Winning the Lichfield Gazette competition would be fantastic but you could win another way if you need cutlery or gifts at the end of March. Between 20-27 March pop along to the Arthur Price Factory Shop and you’ll get bargains of up to 70% during the quarterly Factory Shop Sale. From canteens to cake spoons you could extend your existing service or treat loved ones to a special silver gift. For more information call 01543 267324 or pop in. Head towards the Royal Mail Sorting Office on Britannia Way and follow the Arthur Price signs.

We Love Lichfield If you haven’t realised we at the

Lichfield Gazette love Lichfield and its district and are proud to be supporters of the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’, indeed it is our ‘charity of choice’ for 2015.

The fund, which makes donations of up to £1000 has just announced its latest round of grants and is planning its next presentation in May 2015 and is inviting applications from 1st March.

Many community groups have already benefited from the fund and patron Simon Price is encouraging more to make a grant application.

He said: “I’m delighted to announce the next series of grants and I’m looking forward to hearing about all the fantastic work done across the district and how we can help.”

“The fund is here solely to help those people and organisations who give their time for free and make a significant contribution to society. Without them, many precious projects would not benefit many members of our society. The fund itself is run by volunteers and together I hope we can make a difference.”

Launched in 2011, the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’ considers applications from local groups across the District in need twice a year. Companies and individuals are welcomed to donate or fund-raise for the Fund. All money is invested through a permanent endowment fund registered by charity the Staffordshire Community Foundation on behalf of ‘We Love Lichfield’ in line with charity commission guidelines. The interest and dividends earned on the invested money is then distributed by the 'We Love Lichfield Fund' as small grants across the district. The beauty of this model is that it will provide a source of on-going funding that can be used for many years to come.

Whether or not you enter the competition any support for We Love Lichfield will ensure you are supporting voluntary groups across the district for generations to come.

For more information visit: www.welovelichfield.com

WIN WIN WIN

To enter the competition…

To be in with a chance of winning one of three £100 Arthur Price vouchers all you have to do is answer this simple question: On what road is the Arthur Price Factory Shop located?

A: Britannia Way B: Camelot Way C: Warwick Way

Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Just send your name, address and contact details to Gazette Arthur Price Competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ by the competition closing date of Monday 5th April or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified. Good luck!

Page 39

A

Fabulous Fund Raising Pamper Evening at Francesco Salon

fund-raising pamper night at Francesco Group in Lichfield was very well supported earlier this year, despite the inclement weather. The event was hosted by Francesco on Thursday 28 January and raised many hundreds of pounds that will be going to the Ladies Tangles nominated charity of the year - the National Hereditary Breast Cancer Help Line.

The National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline was founded in 1996 by Wendy Watson, at a time when little or nothing was generally known about Hereditary Breast Cancer. Wendy held the first Hereditary Breast Cancer Awareness week to mark the launch of the helpline. This was warmly received by the whole genetic community. Two genes had at that time been found which, if faulty, conferred around an 80-90% breast cancer risk.

The main aim of the helpline was to ensure that

those worried about their family history had access to full information on all the options currently available, referrals where appropriate, and full peer support for whatever option was chosen. Most importantly the helpline also ensures that those affected have the opportunity to make informed choices. It is also an important role of the helpline to reassure those worrying unnecessarily. To that end the Helpline has been enormously successful, given the feedback over this past 14 years.

The Helpline was instrumental in bringing the ‘Management of women at risk’ to the attention of the DoH and in 2006 guidelines were developed and announced by NICE, with representation and approval from the Helpline. The Helpline has also been involved with the current moratorium on ‘Genetic testing and insurance’, and was also active in

alerting the government to the worrying situation of the gene patent, which, if allowed to go forward, would have made genetic testing prohibitively expensive for the NHS, thus costing lives.

If you would like to know more about the Ladies Tangles group, how you can become a member or ways in which you can support its fund-raising, call chairperson Beverleigh on 07990 971990.

Hamley Heath House Creative Courses

H

amley Heath House courses are great fun and very friendly and relaxed. Come and enjoy these courses in the homely atmosphere of Hamley Heath House!

Everyone welcome. All courses suitable for beginners.

Indian Cooking Course Friday 20th March Come and cook your own home-style Indian meal under the supervision of Amarpal - as seen on TV. Amarpal lived in India as a child and learnt a lot of the traditional culinary skills from his Mum. He is passionate about cooking and is pleased to share his knowledge with you. Arrive at 10am for coffee and tea. The day will be hands-on where you will create your own meal for two people to take home with you which will consist of 5 to 6 items. The teaching is of traditional home-style Indian recipes not to be confused with restaurant food. You will have a talk on the magic of using authentic spices; there will be plenty of time for questions and answers too. Everything you need will be included in the day. Please wear sensible footwear. Lunch and complementary wine will be included. Full day - ends around 4.30pm.

Suitable for beginners - £85 per person.

There are many more fantastic courses available. Please go to www.hamleyheathhouse.co.uk for further details.

Hamley Heath House, Hamley Heath, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 3LS. Tel: 01889 577 887. Mob: 07710 043741. Email diana@hamleyheathhouse.co.uk www.hamleyheathhouse.co.uk

L

Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Arts at The Guildhall

ichfield Arts concerts at Lichfield Guildhall continue in March with music from three very different genres.

Friday 6th March will see award winning Blues guitarist Matt Schofield and his trio delivering a master-class in high velocity musicianship and quality song-writing. Schofield is one of the most influential and distinctive guitarists of his generation and three time winner of British Blues Guitarist Matt Schofield of the Year.

Leading Boogie Woogie, Blues and Rock'n'Roll pianist Ben Waters and his band perform on Saturday 14th March. Ben Waters has worked with many of the legendary greats of rock 'n' roll including Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Rolling Stones, Shakin’ Stevens, and Ray Davies.

On Saturday 28th March former Seahorses frontman Ben Waters Chris Helme, who has reinvented himself as an indie folk singer-songwriter, will take to the stage.

More details and tickets are available online at Chris Helme www.lichfieldarts.org.uk, by phoning 01543 262223, or calling into Lichfield Arts’ box office in Donegal House, Bore Street, Lichfield.

A

An Evening with Arthur Bostrom and The Platters

rthur Bostrom, best known for his portrayal as the vowel-mangling gendarme in ‘Allo ‘Allo!, and of course for his appearance in Cinderella at the Lichfield Garrick, returns with an evening of the perils and pleasures of a long career in theatre and

Tea Dance at the Palace

television.

Expect anecdotes and some facts you might not know about ‘Allo ‘Allo! and acting in general. The second half of the evening will feature Arthur answering your questions so if there's anything you've always wanted to know then here is your chance.

An Evening with Arthur Bostrom will play at the Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 1 March 2015 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £14 and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling Lichfield Garrick’s Box Office on 01543 412121.

On Wednesday March 4 at 7.30pm The Platters will playing at the Garrick. Throughout

their successful and long standing career The Platters have had 40 charting singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart including four number one hits.

Watch them perform such classics as The Great Pretender and the unforgettable Only You and celebrate a career that has lasted over 60 years.

Tickets cost £29.50 and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling Lichfield Garrick’s Box Office on 01543 412121.

The tea dance proved extremely popular with the guests. Image copyright Lichfield Cathedral School

T

ea and cake was the order of the day when guests from Samuel Johnson Community Hospital and Retirement Home were invited to a tea dance with the Sixth Form students of Lichfield Cathedral School.

The school’s Great Hall was transformed back to a bygone era with bunting, vintage china, cake stands and sugar tongs gracing tables laden with sandwiches, scones and cakes galore. The Sixth Formers did a fabulous job of entertaining, dancing and mixing with their guests, with some fantastic footwork on display courtesy of the waltz, foxtrot and quickstep.

Music was provided by Geoff Beedle, a 32-year veteran member of staff who can often be seen out and about on the school tractor. Dr Ewington, Head of Science, and Mrs Hannam, Deputy Head, lead a ballroom dancing club at the school and had put the students through their paces at practice sessions.The event was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

One guest commented that the tea dance was: “Better than the Ritz!” while another said: “It’s like being at Claridges, but that would have cost us £100!”

Page 41

Affordable Luxury at Netherstowe House

N

etherstowe House is a unique retreat offering affordable luxury to locals and visitors alike. This intriguing Grade II Listed Hotel and Restaurant is steeped in history and is considered the place to meet in Lichfield. Cappuccinos after the school run, filled croissants for breakfast, speciality tea and a homemade scone for elevenses, and ladies meeting for lunch. Business discussed over brunch, sumptuous afternoon teas, sizzling steaks in the brasserie, romantic candlelit dinners in the fine dining restaurant, or special celebrations in the private dining room. People of all ages and backgrounds come together at Netherstowe House and whatever the occasion they provide sincere five-star hospitality in truly beautiful surroundings.

Now, this award-winning restaurant is giving food fans another reason to celebrate with its hugely popular Express Menu starting at just £16.00 per person for lunch or dinner. The emphasis is on creating flavoursome, classic dishes with a modern twist, freshly produced on site using the finest seasonal ingredients. This month you can also treat Mum to a memorable day out at this unpretentious gastronomic hot spot, with a sumptuous seasonal Mother’s Day Lunch on Sunday 15th March.

To treat someone special to a supremely comfortable, vibrant, and uniquely local experience simply call a member of Netherstowe House’s friendly Hospitality Team on 01543 254 270 or email reception@netherstowehouse.com For more information visit www.netherstowehouse.com

Garrick Chief Exec to step down

A

drian Jackson, C h i e f Executive and Artistic Director of the Lichfield Garrick, has announced that he is to stand down from his role at the city’s theatre.

Adrian has headed up the Lichfield Garrick since 2006, taking the theatre through many changes over the last nine years. Most recently he has led the process of moving from Lichfield District Council control to a charitable stand alone Trust.

Adrian has been appointed Chief Executive of the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton and will start his new role in the summer.

Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The Age of Jazz at Swinfen Hall Hotel

F

eaturing the music of Gershwin, Ravel and Fritz Kreisler, Swinfen Hall Hotel, a magnificent Georgian mansion, set in 100 acres of park land just outside Lichfield, is the setting for a fundraising concert in aid of the Lichfield Festival on Saturday 14th March. Set in the oakpanelled ballroom, the concert celebrates the music of the roaring 20's with works by Gershwin, Ravel and Fritz Kreisler. American concert violinist Darin Qualls and Russian piano virtuoso Tatiana Zakharova will be performing a spirited programme of works including Gershwin's much-loved Summertime and An American in Paris, the colourful Blues Sonata by Ravel and some show-stopping pieces by the legendary violinist and composer Fritz Kreisler. This very entertaining concert was originally performed in Dublin in October 2014 and the Lichfield Festival are delighted that this talented duo will repeat the programme this March at Swinfen. Please ring hotel reception on 01543 481494 for concert tickets.

L

Lichfield Town Clerk to retire

ichfield’s Town Clerk, Peter Young, has announced that he will be retiring in August after 28 years’ service with the City Council. Peter was originally an English teacher, but moved into local government in March 1981, firstly as town clerk to Wootton Bassett in Wiltshire, and then as town clerk to Dronfield in Derbyshire, before coming to Lichfield in February 1987.

Lichfield City has over 32,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest town councils in England, and it owns property worth over £13 million. Its responsibilities include various open spaces and footpaths, the local markets, the Guildhall, community halls, and the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. The Council also maintains many of the old traditions of the city, such as the Sheriff’s Ride and Shrovetide pancake races, together with the old manorial courts which are now held in a light-hearted manner. The town clerk is also officially the ‘Steward of the Manor’.

Peter commented: “It has been a great privilege to work for the City Council and I have enjoyed it immensely, but it is now time to move on. I will not be retiring completely however, as from October I will become the National President of the Society of Local Council Clerks, which is an organisation providing training and support to almost 5,000 town and parish clerks in England and Wales. That is a one-year honorary post, which involves a lot of travel meeting other clerks around the country, and I am really looking forward to it.”

Cllr Terry Finn, Leader of the City Council said, “Peter has provided excellent service to this Council over many years and he will be difficult to replace. We are very sorry to lose him, but wish him every success in his new role.”

Peter’s 28 years makes him one of the longest serving clerks of the City; but the record is held by Charles Simpson who was town clerk for a total of 53 years. He first took office in 1825, and was ‘dismissed’ in 1844 when the politics of the council changed, but was reinstated nine years later and served until 1886 by which time he was well into his 80’s.

“That is a record which I don’t think any new clerk can ever equal”; commented Peter.

The process of appointing a new town clerk has now begun with advertisements appearing in the local and nation press.

Page 43

Volunteer gaolers needed!

T

he Old Guildhall Prison cells are looking for volunteers to join the team that welcome visitors into the historic display over the summer months.

Volunteers welcome people visiting Lichfield around the from country and the world, as well as helping local visitors to find out more about the rich history of the city. There has been a prison on the site from 1548, and visitors today can see original cells and find out about the stories of their former inmates, including Edmund Wightman, the last man to be burnt at the stake in England for heresy. The cells were re-opened with new displays in 2012 and over 7000 visitors have come to see the historic prison each summer since then.

The cells will be open from 10am-4pm on Saturdays from April to September. Volunteering opportunities can be very flexible - from just a couple of hours a month, to a more regular slot, depending on what you feel you could offer. If you would like to find out more about volunteering at the Old Guildhall Prison Cells, please contact Joanne Wilson, Museums and Heritage Officer on 01543 264 972, by email to sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk, or pop in to the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum on the corner of the Market Square.

Support for bereaved young people

A

newly extended bereavement service, launched by St Giles Hospice, is offering support to local children and young people who have been affected by bereavement.

Children, like adults, to respond bereavement in different ways and the new service, called ‘Phoenix at St Giles’, will provide a flexible support programme designed to meet the individual needs of the family – including helpful information, one-to-one counselling, family group counselling, a children and young people’s group, peer support groups, and activities such as boxing and crafts.

The new service was launched at a special event on Saturday 7th February at St Giles Hospice in Whittington. The event was attended by St Giles staff and supporters as well as the Mayor of Lichfield Councillor Norma Bacon, the Mayor of Tamworth Councillor Richard Kingstone, and the MP for Lichfield Michael Fabricant.

The service is provided free of charge to all who use it. For more information about how Phoenix at St Giles can help support young people, call 01543 434536 or email phoenix@stgileshospice.com.

S

Young Entrepreneurs Showcase

tudents taking part in the Young Enterprise programme will be showcasing their entrepreneurial skills at a Trade Fair in the Lichfield Garrick this March.

Nine teams of students from schools across Lichfield, Tamworth and Cannock are taking part in the Young Enterprise programme. Each team starts their own business, appoints members of the board, and decides on a product to create and sell.

The Trade Fair will see each team presenting their product and company to the public and judges, who will be interviewing and marking the students.

The Trade Fair is running between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 7 March at the Lichfield Garrick and is free for anyone to attend.

Page 45

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

City Jewellers of Lichfield, 39 Market Street, Market Square, Lichfield, WS13 6LA. Tel: 01543 416 412 www.cityjewellers.co.uk Salloways Jewellers, Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6NA. Tel: 01543 262244. www.salloways.co.uk

B

Silky smooth forever - naturally

y the time you read this, you may well have seen thriving local business Xodos Aesthetics Ltd on BBC Midlands Today after owner, Sally Wagstaff was interviewed by Ben Godfrey, their roaming BBC Reporter.

Sally started her highly-regarded business after taking part in an entrepreneurial scheme for ARMED FORCES Dependents and her achievements in 18 months of business have been extraordinary.

A qualified and experienced nurse who served as an Officer in the Royal Navy for many years, it is Sally’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence that has led to Xodos becoming the thriving business it is today.

Xodos specialises in painless and permanent hair removal for men and women using ground-breaking Soprano® INMotionTM laser technology. This gentle, cool and effective technique gradually heats up the pigment contained within the hair follicle causing it to destroy the hair follicle from the inside effectively ‘switching off’ the hair’s ability to grow. What’s more, it works on very dark hair through to fairer and redder shades than has ever been possible before – painlessly, effortlessly and without mess and fuss. Another plus about this amazing laser is the ability to treat dark, Asian and even black skin without pain or burning – something that is just not possible with any other type of treatment.

As the summer approaches and holiday beaches beckon, many of us will be stepping up our depilation routines, but at Xodos painful waxing, plucking and shaving are a thing of the past.

At Xodos you can be sure that in just a few sessions on any part of the body (nose, upper lip, neck, bikini-line, back etc) you can permanently wave goodbye to 80% of hair growth in that area. This leaves you with smooth, depilated skin – no more in-growing hairs or stubble! Your skin will look as if it is naturally silky and smooth and you’ll be able to throw those razors away forever!

Worryingly, many hair removal centres do not employ qualified staff, and there is no governing body for the industry. Sally is a qualified and experienced Nurse, and is also qualified in OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH and holds a Masters Degree. She has set the bar high and offers only the most discreet, professional and effective services.

Xodos Aesthetics can be found at The Hexagon, Curborough Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8ES. Call 01543 415 942 for your free consultation. More information is available at www.xodosltd.co.uk

Page 47

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

C

A helping hand with winter skin

old winter weather can take its toll on our skin. Central heating can leave skin feeling dry and sensitive and cold winds can chap lips and leave us in need of a little more TLC. Boots the Chemist stock a great range of skincare brands to help with all winter skin issues.

The Boots No7 skincare ranges are renowned for delivering top-flight results at an affordable price and include cosmetics, anti-aging, hand and lipcare, suncare and bodycare that contain the same skin-nourishing formulas.

No7 Protect & Perfect is designed to be ideal for ages 25 to 35. Protect & Perfect came out 7 years ago and was an overnight sensation as women all over the country were wowed by its results. No7 Protect & Perfect Intense is designed for people aged 35 to 45. No7 Lift & Luminate is ideal for adding firmness and luminosity to skin at ages 45 to 50, and No7 Restore & Renew is designed for those of 60 years and over.

There really is something for everyone, and the lovely people at Boots, are happy to advise you on just the right product for you.

WIN, WIN, WIN!

Boots, are offering one lucky reader the

chance to win a beautiful gift bag of No7 Protect and Perfect Intense products worth over £87! The gift bag includes…

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense ADVANCED serum £24.95 Seven years ago Protect & Perfect Serum became known for really working. 7 Years on they've made the best even better. It contains active ingredients that help to repair and protect as well as helping to tackle blemishes.

Clinically proven to be even more effective at reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, delivering visibly younger skin.

This serum is powered

by Matrixyl 3000 Plus™, a combination of the most powerful form of Matrixyl plus a next generation

peptide that work together to help restore more youthful looking skin. With a patented antioxidant complex it helps protect skin from future signs of ageing, keeping it looking younger for longer. Includes Hyaluronic acid for firmer feeling skin.

After two weeks skin looks younger, by four weeks deep lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced. Results keep getting better with continued use.

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Day Cream 50ml £23 Smooth deep lines and wrinkles and help delay new ones with this protecting and renewing daytime formula. Created to answer to your skin’s needs now and help it have a more youthful future. It is the perfect partner to the No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Beauty Serum, formulated to be used together to deliver even better results than the serum alone.

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Night Cream £24 Smooth deep lines and wrinkles and help your skin recover from the day with this revitalising and renewing night cream. Created to work in harmony with your skin's natural night time repair processes.

Protect & No7 Perfect Intense Eye Cream £16.00 Smooth deep lines, wrinkles and boost radiance with this revitalising and renewing eye cream.

Created specially for the delicate eye area targeting troublesome lines and visibly improving dark shadows and puffiness.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question.

No7 Protect & Perfect came out

A. 7 years ago B. 5 years ago C. 1 years ago Just send your name, answer and contact details to Boots Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of Monday 23rd March. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified. Good luck!

Please do not use any product if you may be alergic to certain ingredients Page 49

Page 50 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 51

Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

What’s on & Dining Out YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Thrillers, musicals and a little bit of sauce!

Although some days it feels like spring will never get here it’s definitely on its way and already we theatre lovers are planning what we’re going to be watching as the days get longer and (hopefully) warmer. I’ve already pencilled in my choices for April and I’m glad to report that there’s something on offer locally to please every taste.

Starting the month off in thrilling fashion until the 4 April is the popular Middle Ground Theatre Company in the main house at the Garrick with Richard Harris’s acclaimed psychological thriller The Business of Murder.

I haven’t seen a good whodunnit for ages so I’ll definitely be heading off to see what promises to be a tense drama centring on Dee, a young television playwright who gets mixed up in a frightening situation she cannot control.

Sun 1 March to Wed 30 Sept Tower Tours at Lichfield Cathedral The Tower Tours are back - why not come along and enjoy. Take in the breath-taking views of Lichfield and beyond on these extended Tower Tours. Ticket price includes a drink at Chapters Café and a 10% discount voucher to use in the Cathedral Shop. Tickets £8 adults, £6 concessions, £24 family (2 adults & 2 children. For more information Tel: 01543 306 100.

Sun 1 March to Tue 31 March The Return of the Lady Chapel at Lichfield Cathedral Join Lichfield Cathedral for a series of celebration events marking the return of the Herkenrode Glass. For more information Tel: 01543 306 100.

Mon 2 March – Sat 11 April Creative Craftwork Exhibition At Lichfield Museum in St Mary’s on the Market Square. A temporary exhibition by local group 'All Directions', who explore and create, stitched textiles. Entry to the museum & exhibition is FREE!

Mon 2 March Lichfield Family History Group 12 noon to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library. Genealogy sessions on 3rd floor, Meeting Room every Monday except Bank and Public Holidays.

FREE entry. For more information contact lfhg@live.co.uk Tue 3 March – Sat 29 Aug Spring & Summer Exhibitions At Emporium Art Gallery. A programme of exhibitions promoting original contemporary artwork by local and national

artists. Free entry.

It looks like a lot of fun from Tuesday 7 when Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre will be presenting the ever-popular musical Grease for a week’s run including a Saturday matinee. There’s something for the tinier tots too when Basil Brush comes to town (Monday 13) and Pinocchio starring top panto dame Ian Adams on the 14 with a special offer on family tickets.

There’s a Black Country Night Out with a host of new comedy acts (16th) then more music with the Fortunes (Friday 17), the sensational Elkie Brooks on (incredibly) her 70th birthday tour (Saturday 18) and then from the 21 to 25 Lichfield Operatic with the evergreen musical The King And I. The same week I’m especially looking forward to seeing one of Lichfield’s favourite actors Tom Roberts (Emmerdale, Doctors) pairing up with Kilke John

Tue 3 March

Neaten and Natter 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Beacon Park.

We invite volunteers to help us look after Beacon Park. This could include litter picking and weeding paths. Equipment provided. Call 01543 308869 to find out more.

(Crazy For You) in the Studio for Amanda Whittington’s Satin n’ Steel, a bitter-sweet comedy about a singing duo that mixes an emotional tale with some classic tunes. Just time to mention more singing with Brit Award-winning trio Blake In Harmony on Wednesday 29 featuring a new sound and new songs on this, their biggest UK tour yet, and Crissy Rock of Benidorm fame in Dirty Dusting, a heart-warming feelgood comedy billed as “pure theatrical Viagra” about three getting-on-a-bit cleaners who set up a sex-chat phoneline which doesn’t go according to plan. Crikey!

See you there!

Phil Preece

What’s On

If you have a community or fundraising event that you’d like to have included in the monthly What’s On pages, please send an email to caz@lichfieldgazette.co.uk quoting the date, event title, times, venue address and brief description. For commercial events please contact a member of the sales team for advertising prices.

Take time out to … … Read a newspaper, Play a board game or cards, teach yourself a new card game, do a quiz, word search or crossword or play table tennis. In the Community Café at Curborough Community Centre from 10.00am to 12 noon.

Free entry. Charge for refreshments. Free parking, information and signposting. For more information contact 01543 417149 or email projects@cruckhouse.plus.com

Doghouse Folk Club 7.30pm for an 8.00pm at start at the Royal British Legion, Alrewas. If you do nothing else on the first Tue of each month (although April will be the 14th because of Easter) then pop along to this extraordinary night of entertainment with Martin and Steff and assorted other singers and musicians. It's a great fun night out if you also like a good old sing-along. You’ll get everything from traditional folk music to Sydney Carter, the Beatles, Dire Straits, Buddy Holly and everything else in between! The only entry cost is a £1 raffle ticket. It’s a grand night out for a quid!!

Rotary Schools Concert 2015 7.00pm at Lichfield Garrick

Page 53

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Theatre. Every year hundreds of young people from local schools take part in the concert giving them a taste of the theatre and an opportunity to show off their skills. Some have gone on to make a career on the stage so you may have the chance of seeing the stars of the future. Ten schools are appearing both, Primary and Secondary, with a varied programme which will ensure an entertaining evening.

Wed 4 March

Birthplace Book Club 1.00pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Friendly and informal group reading along with Radio 4’s Book Club show, new members welcome. Free, donations welcome.

The Platters 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Who can forget Only You and The Great Pretender!

2014 marked the 60th anniversary of their international debut with ‘Only You'.

Thu 5 March

Lichfield Farmers' Market 9.00am to 3.00pm on the Market Square. Held on the first Thu of every month. A wonderful selection of wholesome locallyproduced food. Also an excellent choice of hand-made arts and crafts and many other traditional items.

Fri 6 March – Fri 24 April

Qmin Introduces for a limited period only

You Choose Menu Monday and Tuesday 6pm-9pm £9.95

From our ala carte menu, choose 1 Starter, 1 Main meal, Pilau Rice & Naan bread For t&cs please check website

Thaali Night

Sunday & Wednesday All Night from £9.95

Vegetarian Thaali £9.95

Onion Bhaji, Vegetable Bhuna, Sag Aloo, Tarkha Dall, Pilau Rice & Naan

Meat Thaali £10.95

Chicken Tikka, Lamb Sag, Chicken Tikka Mossola, Tarkha Dall, Pilau Rice & Naan

Seafood Thaali £11.95

Pink Salmon Tikka, Fried Garlic Prawns, Prawn Sag, Tarkha Dall, Pilau Rice & Naan For t&cs please check website

www.qmin.co.uk

Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

British Sign Language 6 Week Taster Course 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Tesco Extra, Community Room. Want to learn basic sign language? Come along to 6 week taster course and join a relaxed informal group.

Anyone can join, whether you're thinking of doing BSL Level 1 or just want to learn for fun. Cost £5 per session price includes all handouts. To book: proudhandssignlanguage@gmail. com or text: 07899 856 685.

Fri 6 March Staffordshire Archaeological & Historical Society 8.00pm at St Mary’s in the Market Square. A talk entitled ‘Newman Coffin Fittings Works’

by Simon Buteux. Visitors welcome £3 at the door.

Refreshments available from 7.30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Pride & Prejudice Dances New Members’ Evening 7.30pm at Lichfield Golf & Country Club. Join in with dances from the Regency period.

An opportunity for beginners to

dance like Jane Austen. £6 Tel: 07815 796746.

The Matt Schofield Band 8.00pm at The Guildhall.

Lichfield Arts presents this superb band, one of an ongoing series of concerts. Tickets £13.

Tel Box Office: 01543 262 223.

Foghorn Funnies 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). Be there or be without laughter on a Friday night. An evening of non-stop laughter served up with a generous helping of improvised games and jokes so you can enjoy a good old-fashioned night of fun. Make your suggestions as we conspire a crazy mix of impossible situations and shenanigans for our unlucky bunch of performers.

An Evening of Dirty Dancing: The Tribute Show 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A high energy emotional roller-coaster with breathtaking choreography and buckets of nostalgia. The Tribute Show is a 5 star homage to the greatest movie soundtrack of all time.

Sat 7 March History Workshop: Lichfield at Leisure 2.00pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Friendly discussion and archive session giving a glimpse into the playtime of Lichfield’s past. £2.50, booking recommended.

Tel: 01543 264 972.

Climb the Spire of St Mary’s Church Guided tours from 10.00am until the last tour at 12.30pm at St. Marys Church in the Market Square and see spectacular views of the Cathedral and the surrounding countryside. Adults £3 & children (min. 10 years) £1.50. For further information Tel: 01543 256 611.

Grand Bric-a-Brac, Craft & Secondhand Book Sale 10.00am to 2.00pm at Lichfield Methodist Church. Further details from Matt and Louise Bates on 01543 263 743.

NCT Nearly New Sale Lichfield & Tamworth 11.45am to 1.30pm at Nether Stowe High School. An opportunity to grab a bargain at our famous sale - toys, games, books, clothes, baby equipment, maternity clothes and larger items like cots and prams.

11.30am for NCT members and 11.45am for non-members. Cost £1.50 entry per adult.

An Improvised Murder 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick

Theatre (Studio). The audience are the puppet masters and the fate of the characters are in their hands. A murder mystery improvised live. With no script and no plot, Foghorn Improv and the audience create a classic whodunnit.

Sun 8 March

The Flea at the Farm 10.00am to 4.00pm at Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre. Flea market – second-hand and vintage stalls.

Free parking, Free entry, dog friendly diner.

Jazz Sunday Lunch 12.30pm at The George Hotel. A delicious three course Sunday lunch with music from the Three Spires Jazz Band. £21.95 adults, £12 children. Tel: 01543 414822.

City of Lichfield Concert Band John Wilks concert 3.00pm to 4.15pm at the Guildhall. A memorial concert in honour of the late John Wilks, founder of the City of Lichfield Concert Band. Tickets are £5 and available from S&J Music, Bird St, on the door if available or lichfieldconcertband@gmail .com.

Mon 9 March Lichfield Family History Group 12 noon to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library. See Mon 2 March for details.

Tue 10 March

Take time out to …

At Curborough Community Centre. See Tue 3 March for more information.

Andrew Dee - Spirit Medium 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). Feel the love once again and join Spirit Medium Andrew Dee.

Wed 10 – Sat 14 March Kiss Me Kate 7.30pm (and 2.30pm Sat matinee) at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A Walsall Operatic Society production. A dazzling, award winning, classic musical.

With music and lyrics by Cole Porter, this delightful comedy is shot through with wit, charm and energy.

Thu 12 March

The Art of Presence 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Shenstone Village Hall. Alberto Mazzoni, Spiritual Teacher from Italy at QED (Question, Enquire, Discover) Awaken, Community Group; providing talks on Wellbeing, Complimentary Therapies

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD & Spirituality. Please email Marion or Dawn at qedawaken@gmail.com or see the QED Awaken Facebook Group for further info.

Fri 13 March

Sheila's M.H.S - Mental Health Show 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio).

Sheila is a Qualified Counsellor and will combine humour with mental health to entertain and educate people on human behaviour. This show will make you laugh, cry (hopefully not at her jokes) and will show you why life is too serious to be taken seriously - besides no-one gets out alive anyway!

Sat 14 & Sun 15 March

Lichfield Camera Club Spring Exhibition Sat 10.00am to 5.00pm and Sun 11.00am to 4.00pm the Guildhall. An eclectic collection of members’ photographs with awardwinning stunning photographs, and maybe some favourites too. Free entry. Tel: 07720 700 958.

Sat 14 March

Young Persons' Cathedral Organ Day 1.15pm to 4.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A day for young musicians of all abilities to discover and explore 'the King of Instruments'! Find out more about our Young Persons' Cathedral Organ Day.

Volunteer Drive 2.00am to 4.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Darwin House needs you! Come and find out what volunteer opportunities we have available.

Boogie Woogie pianist Ben Waters 8.00pm at the Guildhall. Lichfield Arts artistic programme coordinator Chris Newcombe said: “This promises to be an amazing night. Ben has a stunning talent and, whatever your preferred genre, if you like great music you really should grab this opportunity to hear Boogie Woogie piano at its very best.”

Sun 15 March

Mother’s Day At Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Enjoy a three course banquet style lunch at 12.30pm in the Charter Suite or The Country Kitchen Carvery open from 12 noon to 9.30pm or Afternoon Tea in the Bracebridge Room.

There’s something for everyone. For more information: Tel: 0121 308 3751.

Mother’s Day At The George Hotel. A special lady deserves a treat so why not try The Carvery Restaurant between 12 noon and 3.00pm, The Garrick Suite for a banquet style 3 course lunch or The Charter Room if you are a family party of 16 - 20 guests. For more information Tel: 01543 414 822.

Antiques & Collectors' Fair 10.00am to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. This historic county house is a fantastic backdrop for an Antiques & Collectors’ Fair to help raise funds for the on-going restoration of its beautiful collection of buildings. Stall holders will offer an interesting variety from furniture,

Page 56 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

paintings, ceramics, gold & silver ware, books, objects d’art and much more. £2 admission. Free parking.

Seed Sunday 11.00am to 1.00pm at Beacon Park. Make a paper pot, plant seeds and take it away. All proceeds will go towards the Community Garden, which is near the bowling greens.

We’ll be planting herbs this week. £1 per pot.

Mon 16 March

Lichfield Branch of Embroiderer's Guild 7.30pm in the Lichfield Methodist Centre.

The speaker for the evening will be local textile artist, Henrietta Ellis and her subject, Illustration in Stitch. Visitors (£4) are welcome. For more information, please ring 01283 813320.

Lichfield Family History Group 12 noon to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library. See Mon 2 March for details.

Tue 17 March

Art Workshops 6.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Small and friendly sessions led by award-winning local artist Carole Collier, beginners very welcome. £10 including all materials and refreshments, booking essential. Tel: 01543 264972.

Breakfast Club 10.00am to 12 noon at Curborough Community Hall. Provided by Friends2Friends serving bacon or bacon and egg baps / egg, beans or mushrooms on toast / toast / crumpets / toasted teacake.

For more information contact 01543 417149 or email projects@cruckhouse.plus.com SLAM Wrestling Live 7.30pm at the Guildhall. Hard hitting, high flying American wrestling comes to town with two hours of action the whole family can enjoy!

Wed 18 March

Tick, Tick, Boom!

7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio).

A South Staffordshire College Students production. Amateur Performance. A Rock Musical by Jonathan Larson, the Creator of Rent. A musical about the courage it takes to follow your dreams and is set in 1990 and filled with instantly appealing melodies, and a unique blend of pop and musical theatre styles.

Thu 19 March

Lichfield Civic Society Meetings 7.45pm at St Mary's in the Market Square.

Come along to listen to interesting talks by special guest speakers. This evening hear about The Defence Medical Services in the Midlands by Commander Simon Brown.

Free to members, non-members welcome £3 at the door.

Gypsy Fire 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre.

Individually they are acclaimed soloists, together they are simply breath-taking!

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Their brand new ‘Acoustic Spectacular' theatre show propels you on a fabulous musical journey through style and time.

See How They Run 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). A South Staffordshire College Students production. Amateur Performance. Set in the idyllic village of Merton-cum-Middlewick in 1940s England, the village inhabitants are preparing themselves for the imminent threat of Nazi invasion.

Fri 20 March

George Michael Tribute Evening At Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Since winning his heat on Stars in Their Eyes, Rob Lamberti has become one of the hottest tribute acts around. £39 per person, includes a three course meal, entertainment and disco until 12.30, or £145 per couple to include an overnight stay. Tel: 0121 308 3751.

Staffordshire Archaeological & Historical Society 8.00pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. A talk by Dr Oliver Harris – From Neolithic Bones to Viking Boats and Whitby Jet. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door.

Refreshments available from 7.30 pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Voulez Vous 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. The Ultimate Abba Tribute Band, Voulez Vous have strived for the last twenty-two years to continue their legacy in recreating the costumes, glamour and distinct sound that was Abba.

Comedy 42 - March 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). The best comedians from across the country hosted by Chris Purchase and featuring Jonny Awsum, Sully O’Sullivan and , Paul Pirie.

Sat 21 March – Mon 31 Aug Drayton Manor Theme Park’s 2015 season at Drayton Manor Theme Park.

Drayton Manor Theme Park officially opens its doors for the 2015 season and 65th anniversary! Tel: 0844 472 1960 or go to www.draytonmanor.co.uk for more information.

Sat 21 March

Footsteps open day 10am to 2pm

Brilliant Biology & Other Smart

Sciences 11.00am to 4.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Fascinating science-based activities to celebrate National Science and Engineering Week – fun for all the family! Free entry.

Mad Science Day 11.00am or 2.00pm at Lichfield Library. Join in the fun at the library with MadScience.com’s wacky experiments. Part of National Science Week! £1, booking essential - Tel: 01543 510700.

Lichfield Branch of Young Embroiderer's 10.00am to 12.30pm at Curborough Community Centre.

For more information, please Tel: 01543 250 531.

Clare Teal and her Hollywood Band 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. The programme takes in aspects of Doris Day’s long and varied career with Clare Teal and her 16 piece Hollywood Band presenting a very special celebration of the music of the iconic and much-loved Doris Day to mark the great lady's 90th Birthday this year.

Jane Eyre 2.30pm and 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio).

Charlotte Bronte’s tale of a young woman’s courageous fight through injustice and hardship.

Jane is employed as a governess at Thornfield Hall where she falls in love with Edward Rochester, master of the house. Rochester eventually proposes to Jane but the complexities of his past ensure that Jane's struggles are far from over.

Sun 22 March

Middleton Hall Wedding Fayre 12noon to 3.00pm at Middleton Hall. Hand-picked local suppliers, live music, goodie bag, welcome drink, plus showcasing the stunning venue. Free entry.

Tel: 07805 278 434 for more information.

Wedding Open Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. Come along and see just how lovely your wedding day could be at Moor Hall.

Admission free.

Lichfield’s Got Talent Finals Night 6.00pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A showcase of local talent with all proceeds being donated to our three charities,

Stephens Story (Teenage Cancer Trust), Live Life Give Life and Lichfield Arts.

Mon 23 & Tue 24 March Oliver - Lichfield Cathedral School 7.00pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A Lichfield Cathedral School production

Mon 23 March Lichfield Family History Group 12 noon to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library. See Mon 2 March for details.

Tue 23 – Sat 28 March The Accrington Pals by Peter Whelan 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). Lichfield Players production. On the eve of World War I, the young men of Accrington raise a ‘Pals' volunteer battalion and march excitedly off to war. But the trenches bear horrors worse than any man could have imagined.

Back at home, the Accrington women unite in the face of life, where nothing will ever be the same again.

Tue 24 March Interfaith Service 10.00am to 12 noon at Curborough Community Hall.

New growth, new beginnings and

Page 57

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

St Patrick’s Celebration On

Mother’s Day Sun 15 March

Live Irish music, great food come and enjoy the craic!

The Swan or ‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley has a huge reputation for great food.

Music starts after the famous traditional Sunday Lunch (carvery 12-3). Irish & folk music and singing from mid-afternoon until close and on Sunday 15 March there are two reasons to visit.

The chef uses his skills to produce 9 and 12 inch pizzas throughout lunch and evening (also take away available). Great on a fresh Winter’s night with a glass of Italian wine with varieties such as: ‘Bitter Sweet’ with Mozzarella and caramelised onion; ‘All-day-Pizza-breakfast’ with bacon, egg and black pudding; Americano, Hawaiian; and Calzone. Follow that with coffee made from real Lavazza beans Something for everyone

It’s easy to enjoy Fradley Junction with all its colour and tranquility and its nearby nature reserve, which features in a couple of published British Waterways trails, or just sit with a beer (or a cup of tea) and watch the world float by.

Over the past six years Rick & Tracey have resisted the urge to make The Swan into a trendy ‘gastro pub’ and kept it as a traditional canalside-socialising pub that folk have loved for well over two hundred years. Open 7 days a week, The Swan has something for everybody – it’s a retreat from the hurly burly of everyday life. It has a Sunday Carvery every week 12-3 with five meats and fresh vegetables for £10 inc. sweet and coffee.

Lunch is served Mon-Sat 12-2.30 with a full menu available every evening 5.30 – 9pm.

If your fancy is for traditional and homemade foods then The Swan is the place to enjoy a mixed grill, sirloin steak, beer battered cod, pork-belly & black pepper plus homemade curries and pies. Plus freshly made sandwiches, snacks and much more.

Freshly made Pizzas To supplement its already extensive menu their ‘National Award Winning Chef’ (2013) is baking awesome freshly made mouth-watering hand-stretched Pizzas.

The like have never been seen in these parts.

Beer and entertainment

The Swan has a superb selection of beers on draught such as Abbot and Pedigree, with four guest ales on all the time (So there’s always something new available) And of course all your popular ciders and lagers.

And talking of something for everybody – why not call and enjoy the evening entertainment. Every Thursday evening is Folk Night, with Open Mic on Sunday evenings together with other events on throughout the summer months. And something unique is the Curiosity Shop, now open at the rear of the Mucky Duck selling all manner of things where you are welcome to have a mooch-around.

Rick & Tracey extend a warm welcome and suggest you rediscover Fradley Junction and The Swan this weekend.

The Swan at Fradley Canalside eating at its best DE13 7DN Telephone 01283 790330 We are a dog friendly pub

Page 58 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

new ventures with Lorraine Debnam BEM. Life Event Celebrant. For more information contact 01543 417149 or email projects@cruckhouse.plus.com

Tue 24 March Are you living with Arthritis?

7.00pm to 9.00pm at St Mary’s in the Market Square. Why not come along to the monthly meetings of the Lichfield Branch of Arthritis Care. We offer support, signposting and social activities. Transport is provided for a small contribution. For further information please contact 01543 263 347 or 255698.

Thu 26 March

Birmingham History Talk 7.30pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. A talk by Ian Braisby on Birmingham History; a potted history of the city, from Roman fort to Saxon hamlet to global metropolis. £4 visitors on the door, £2 South East Staffordshire Association of National Trust Members. For more info call 01543 416144.

8 Steps to Work/Life Balance 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Shenstone Village Hall. Talk with Susan Gardner, Wellbeing Specialist & Coach, at QED (Question, Enquire, Discover) Awaken, Community Group; providing talks on Well-being, Complimentary Therapies & Spirituality. £6 on the door. Please email Marion or Dawn at qedawaken@gmail.com for further info.

The Tiger Lillies - The Very Worst of the Tiger Lillies 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre.

The Godfathers of alternative cabaret are back on a tour with a show celebrating 25 years of dark and deviant theatrics. Olivier award winners, they never cease to surprise, shock and entertain with their inimitable musical style, conjuring up the macabre magic of pre-war Berlin and fusing it with the savage edge of punk Fri 27 March

Georgian Cookery Demonstration 7.00pm to 9.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Entertaining and light-hearted cookery demonstration with a Georgian theme. £15 to include tasting and a glass of wine, booking essential Tel: 01543 306 260.

The Blues Brothers Experience 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre.

‘The Blues Brothers Experience’ recreates all the iconic atmosphere of a live performance of The Blues Brothers

Sat 28 March – Wed 15 April Easter Trail 9.00am to 4.00pm at Beacon Park.

Follow the Easter-themed trail round

beautiful Beacon Park to solve the clues and claim your small prize. Head to the ranger station, next to the crazy golf course, to buy your trail. £1.

Sat 28 March

Tipper’s host Easter Fayre in aid of St Giles Hospice 10.00am to 4pm Plant Fair at The National Memorial Arboretum 10.00am to 4.30pm at National Memorial Arboretum. Plant fair featuring highly respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs and trees. Simply something for every plant lover. Free entry, parking charge applies.

Burntwood Singers Easter Concert 7.30pm at Lichfield Methodist Church.

Performing Maunder’s ‘Olivet to Calvary’ and Fauré’s Requiem Tickets cost £5 including light refreshments and are available on the door.

Climb the Spire of St Mary’s Church See Sat 7 March for details.

Lichfield Advanced Motorists Open Day & Driver Improvement 10.00am to 4.00pm at Boley Park Community Hall. Find out more about Lichfield Advanced Motorists, driver safety, manoeuvring and how to improve driving skills. Free entry. For more information Tel: 07020 940 216.

Lichfield Cathedral Chorus 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. From the heart rending sighs of the Lacrymosa to the glorious closure of the Agnus Dei, Mozart's Requiem is a feast for the emotions. Mozart's final work, commissioned just a few weeks before his death and completed by his pupil Sussmeyer, the Requiem remains a choral favourite. Lichfield Cathedral Chorus are joined by the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra and conductor Ben Lamb for this performance. Tickets available on the door, or from Lichfield Garrick Box Office. On-site parking for disabled badge holders only.

The Counterfeit Stones – Grass Me Up! 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre.

Tongue ‘n’ cheek at its best! Have you seen the others baby? A question The Rolling Stones have frequently been asked by journalists keen to know what they think about The Counterfeit Stones.

Chris Helme 8.00pm at the Guildhall. Lichfield Arts present the former Seahorses frontman, who has re-invented himself as an indie folk singer-songwriter of the highest quality first with the band The Yards, and now as solo artist. His experimental nature in the studio sees him fusing rustic folk melodies with psychedelia to critical acclaim. Adults:

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

£14.00. Members/Friends: £12.60. Under 16s: £7.00.

Sun 29 March

St Giles Hospice Lichfield 5k 8.45am registration for a 9.30pm race start at Beacon Park. Join the St Giles Hospice first run of the season. A 5k run through the lovely setting of Beacon Park. £12 per entry (14 years and over). For more information Tel: 01543 434 542.

The Sheriff’s Darwin Walk 10.00am at Bunkers Hill Car Park. A ten mile guided walk around the rural boundary of Lichfield. For more information Tel: 01543 309 854 or go to www.darwinwalk.org.uk.

Pop Factor 2.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Pop Factor tributes the very best of now! A show that's a celebration of the top artists and biggest chart hits! Calling all Directioners! Mixers & Katy Cats!

Are you a Belieber? A Swiftie, or one of our favourite Little Monsters!

We've squeezed in smash hits from all your favourite pop stars to create your very own pop concert!

Mon 30 March Lichfield Family History Group 12 noon to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library. See Mon 2 March for details.

Tue 31 March – Sat 4 April The Business of Murder 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Middle Ground Theatre Company is delighted to present Richard Harris' acclaimed psychological thriller.

Tue 31 March Lichfield Wildlife Group 7.45pm at St Mary’s Centre in the Market Square. AGM followed by an illustrated talk called ‘Hedgehog Rescue’ given by Joan Lockley. Admission is Adults £3.00. Children Free.

Refreshments are available and there will be a raffle. For more information please telephone Ray Allen on 01543 251 654.

15th March - Mother’s Day Lunch at Netherstowe House Treat Mum to a memorable day out at this unpretentious gastronomic hot spot, with a sumptuous seasonal Mother’s Day Lunch. To book call 01543 254 270

13th, 14th & 16th March Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House Treat Mum to Netherstowe House’s Mother’s Day Afternoon

Tea. Choose from their exquisite selection of speciality loose-leaf teas, whilst enjoying elegant finger sandwiches, freshly baked sweet delicacies and warm scones served with Devonshire clotted cream and preserves. £24.95 per person (including Afternoon Tea). To book call 01543 254 270

7th March - Mother’s Day Themed Cupcake Class at Netherstowe House Join Netherstowe House’s professional cake maker for a hands-on opportunity to develop your cake decorating skills whilst relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

Advance booking is essential. £59.00 per person (including Afternoon Tea). To book call 01543 254 270 9th March - Mother’s Day Themed Paper Craft Class at Netherstowe House Netherstowe House’s paper craft expert will help bring out your creative flair to make hand crafted cards for special occasions or professional packaging for small gifts..£55.00 per person (including Afternoon Tea). To book call 01543 254 270

21st March - Chocolate Truffle Class at Netherstowe House Chocolate Truffle Classes at Netherstowe House – the ideal gift or day out for any chocolate fan. In this hands-on class you will learn how the tempering of chocolate is done before tasting chocolate and teaching your taste buds how to really pick up on flavour. Under expert guidance from our chocolatier you will discover which ingredients work best and take home your own range of gift wrapped hand-made chocolates. £59.00 per person (including Afternoon Tea).To book call 01543 254 270

29th March - Poems and Prosecco Evening at Netherstowe House Netherstowe House’s Poet-inResidence Bert Flitcroft will read and chat about poems from his two collections ‘Thought-Apples’ and ‘Singing Puccini at the Kitchen Sink’. No great knowledge of poetry is required; just book your ticket to enjoy a complimentary canapés and flute of Prosecco. £20.00 per person (including flute of Prosecco and Canapés). To book call 01543 254 270

Venue Contact Details

Beacon Park - Swan Rd, Lichfield WS13 6QZ Boley Park Community Hall - 7 Ryknild St, Lichfield WS14 9XU Bunkers Hill Car Park – (Lower Sandford St), Lichfield WS13 6RA Curborough Community Centre Reynolds Close, Lichfield WS13 7NY Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre - Watery Lane, Lichfield WS13 8ES Drayton Manor Theme Park – Near Tamworth B78 3SA Tel: 0844 472 1960 Emporium Art Gallery - 32-34 Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR Tel: 01543 256624 Erasmus Darwin House – Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260 The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR The Guildhall – Bore Street, Lichfield WS13 6LU Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR. Box Office Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Golf & Country Club Seedy Mill Lane, Lichfield WS13 8HE Tel: 01543 417 333 Lichfield Library - The Friary, Lichfield WS13 6QG. Tel: 01543 510700 Lichfield Methodist Church Tamworth St, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 256333 Lichfield Methodist Centre Backcester Lane, Lichfield WS13 6 JH. Middleton Hall – Middleton, Tamworth B78 2AE Tel: 01827 283095 Moor Hall Hotel & Spa - Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751 National Memorial Arboretum Croxall Rd, Alrewas, Burton-onTrent DE13 7AR Royal British Legion - Rykneld St, Alrewas DE13 7AX Nether Stowe High School - St Chads Rd, Lichfield WS13 7NB St Mary’s in the Market Square Market Square, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Tel: 01543 256611 Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum - Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Tel: 01543 264972 Shenstone Village Hall - Barnes Rd Shenstone, Lichfield WS14 0LT Tesco Extra Community Room Church St, Lichfield WS13 6DZ Netherstowe House Hotel, Netherstowe, Lichfield, WS13 6AY. Tel: 01543 254270

Win a Gorgeous Bouquet and Chocolates for your Mum!

I

vison the Lichfield Florist, Bird Street, Lichfield is offering Gazette readers the chance to win a gorgeous bouquet and chocolates to be delivered to your Mum Hannah Woolley in time for Mother’s Day on March 15th (or perhaps you’re a Mum, and deserve a treat yourself!)

Ivison the Lichfield Florist have been trading from the same picturesque shop for over 80 years and the business is now run by Hannah Woolley, the fourth generation of the family involved.

Should you wish to present your Mum with an exquisite bouquet this year, Ivisons has a wide range to choose from ready to select from their catalogue. Bouquets are then made up from a beautiful selection of fresh flowers so each bloom is hand-picked for size and beauty.

Alternatively you can just come in and choose whatever flowers you wish, creating something that reflects a favourite colour or evokes a special memory. This year, why not go for a scented spring bloom bouquet with the delicate fragrances of freesia, hyacinth and tulip? Or perhaps you prefer something more exotic with sculptural ‘bird of paradise’, anthurium and orchid flowers? It’s easy to choose when you can see each bloom and sample its fragrances before you select it for your bouquet. If you want a bouquet with real ‘wow’ factor you can also add chocolates, balloons and even a teddy.

Ivison the Lichfield Florist are also experts in creating fabulous bridal and wedding bouquets and displays, corporate displays and funeral tributes. For birthdays, anniversaries or ‘just because’, their hand-tied bouquets are guaranteed to delight.

To win a spectacular Mother’s Day bouquet (worth £30) plus a box of chocolates to be delivered to your or the recipients address, just answer the following question......

Q. ‘Damask’, ‘tea’ and ‘shrub’ are varieties of A. Violet B. Rose C. Tulip Send your answer, name and contact details to Lichfield Gazette Mother’s Day Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email them to gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk.

Competition closing date Thursday 12th March.

Ivison the Lichfield Florist can be found on 18 Bird Street, Lichfield.WS13 6PR.Tel: 01543 263173. Open Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm and on Saturday from 9am – 4pm.

For more information go to www.Ivesonlichfieldflorist.co.uk

Competition Winners

City Jewellers Nomination Charm Bracelet Competition Congratulations to Christine Wannell of St. John's Close, Lichfield, winner of this chic bracelet.

Flower Design of Lichfield Valentine Bouquet Competition Congratulations to Abigail Smith of Rocklands Crescent who won this beautiful bouquet.

Darwin’s At The George Competition Congratulations Rob Gaudin of Tewe Place, Lichfield who has won a meal for two at this stylish restaurant.

Page 59

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Enjoy a great day out at Slimbridge Wetland Centre

L

ichfield Wildlife Group has arranged a coach trip to Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire on Saturday 13 June.

Peter Scott was the son of Antarctic explorer Captain Scott who, in his dying letter, urged Peter’s mother to “make the boy interested in natural history”.

Departing Lichfield at 8am and returning from Slimbridge at 5pm the cost of the coach trip is £20 per person which includes coach fare and admission to the centre. If you would like to book seats for this trip, please telephone Ray Allen on 01543 251654.

Peter became an Olympic sailing medallist and a well-known painter and broadcaster. He created the IUCN red list which measures whether species are threatened or endangered. He was the

WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre is often referred to as the birthplace of modern conservation.

The founder, Sir Peter Scott, is widely remembered as one of the fathers of modern conservation.

Page 60 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

founding chair of WWF – he even drew their famous panda logo.

In 1946 he set up the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge as a centre for science and conservation. Uniquely at the time, he opened it to the public so that anyone could enjoy getting close to nature.

(Source www.wwt.org.uk)

Services

Services

GAZETTE small ads Services

To book your Gazette Small Advert please contact Rebecca Hill 07535 634794 OR Diana Gudgeoan 01543 253633

Gazette contacts Editor

Paul Oakley 07875 475540 / 01543 302748 paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Advertise in this space for only ÂŁ20 plus vat

Advertise in this space for only ÂŁ20 plus vat

Deputy Editor

Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048 gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk Production

Helen Smith 07967 154187 pebblesdesignagency@hotmail.co.uk

Distributors wanted contact 07548 682576 Advertising

Steve Brown 07740 166497 steve@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Rebecca Hill 07535 634794 rebecca.lichfieldgazette@gmail.com Traci Calcutt 07999 430383 tracicalcutt@gmail.com

Diana Gudgeon 01543 253633

National Sales David Baker 01889 577891 david@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GAZETTE MAGAZINE PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk Page 61

GAZETTE small ads Services

Services

Services Independent Business Advisor Insolvency Consultant

• Financial issues and cash flow problems?

• A downturn in trade and bad debts?

• Pressure from creditors?

• Or, is it time to close the business and retire?

With over 40years experience in Company matters, I can offer possible solutions.

EJ SERVICES

(Midlands Ltd) Landscape Gardening *Reliable Grass Cutting Service* *Hedge & Tree Work* *Quality Turfing* *Gardens Cleared / Tidied* *Regular Garden Maintenance* *Micro Digger / Dumper Hire* (Fits through 30" standard gateway) *Quality Fencing* (Weed treatment & pest / disease control - ask for details) Tel: 01543 262527 Mob: 07973 261388 FREE ESTIMATES

Leaflets distributed

Why not ask about our leaflet distribution, leaflet design and print services.

We cover 18,000 homes and businesses every month.

Enquiries to paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Tel :- 01543 302748

Page 62 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

For a free confidential discussion, call or email:Leeside Consultancy - John Spencer MIPA, MABRP Tel: 0121 353 6613 Mob: 07544 575989 Email: johns@leeside.myzen.co.uk www.leesideconsultancy.com

Page 63