Lichfield Gazette July/August 2015

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

JULY/AUGUST 2015 ISSUE 73

Lichfield Food Festival See page 64

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

WE ARE MOVING

NEW HOME FOR HOMEMAKERS

Purestyle and Intuition are moving into new premises.

After 21 successful years at Curborough Craft Centre, Jan and Alan are on the move!

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hey are moving to Bromley Hayes Garden Centre, Shaw Lane, near Kings Bromley WS13 8HW, on the A515 Lichfield to Kings Bromley road, just past Kings Bromley Marina.

Open for business as normal from Saturday 8th August. Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday 10.30 to 4.30 and Sundays 11 till 4.

Call in and see them for your curtains, soft furnishings, fabrics, bespoke upholstered furniture, painted dining and bedroom furniture, re-upholstery service, blinds, shutters, wallpapers and Little Greene paint.

• Upholstery • Real wood furniture • Curtains • Soft furnishings • Paint • Wall coverings

Stockists of:-

Units 2 & 4 The Mill, Curborough Craft Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield WS13 8ES

www.purestyleinteriors.co.uk Tel: 01543 293628

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CONTENTS

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

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26 Sumptuous colour Rubies - the birthstone for July.

38 Win Cascade Pendant Worth £300 - City Jewellers

40 Step into summer Top tips for Summer feet.

48 Our working history Fantastic pictures from You’re Probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...

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50 The great British summer wardrobe Chic fashion from your high street.

57 Tudor Row feature Step into shopping heaven.

61 Festivals guide Part 2 of our Lichfield Festivals Guide.

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

72 Gazette Small Ads

CONTRIBUTORS • Caz Jones

• Joss Musgrove Knibb

• Phil Preece

• Robert Yardley

• You’re Probably from Lichfield, Staffs...

• Lyn Tyler

• Lesley Mackness

Gazette contacts Editor

Paul Oakley 07875 475540 / 01543 302748 paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk 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.co.uk Traci Calcutt 07999 430383 tracicalcutt@gmail.com Diana Gudgeon 01543 253633 diana@lichfieldgazette.co.uk National Sales David Baker 01889 577891 david@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GAZETTE MAGAZINE PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ www.lichfiel dgazette.co.uk

Next issue of Lichfield Gazette - Saturday 29th August Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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Undercover operation

First of all a big congratulations to all at Lichfield Mercury where the title has reached 200 years and is still going strong! Lichfield Gazette wasn’t around for 193 of those years and so we are approximately 8,500 editions behind them.

A few years ago it was decided that the City should have a new shopping centre and the name Friarsgate was proposed, which incidentally is a similar name to Coventry’s Friargate, which is currently receiving further inward investment to develop a new road system and a business quarter.

The planned shopping centre in Lichfield has had its ups and downs, and is now being reworked for public consultation this week with the promise of a multi-screen cinema, hotel, shops, cafés and bars.

Letter Editor A

from the

when planning a 21st century shopping complex. Similar developments – the Merry Hills, Touchwoods and Westfields of the area are popular destinations to consumers, because they offer what the modern shopper wants. Lichfield has the opportunity to add something different here with a good selection of individual shops, like Chester, Shrewsbury, Cheltenham and Ashbourne. In many respects Lichfield still has the same shopping offering as it did when the Mercury first came out!

Anyone who knows me, and has read my comments in the past will know I am strongly of the opinion that any new development should have a covered area, be it a mall, arcade or indoor atrium. Notwithstanding the average age of our townsfolk, the introduction of a pleasant and safe indoor Yours truly, area within the centre with controlled climate, clean toilets and easy Paul Oakley parking (not to mention easy mobility) seems something of a prerequisite Editor

Julie Crisp with Bake Off cake page 64

July/August 2015 Issue 73 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, Stonnall, 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.

30 July 2015

code 10955

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WIN

FIND MINSTER THE CAT!

AFTERNOON TEA Win Traditional Afternoon Tea for Two people (Mon – Thurs) and enjoy the award winning 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.

Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House: Traditional Afternoon Tea: £19.95 per person with a flute of Champagne: £30.45 per person Afternoon tea is served daily from 1:00pm – 5:00pm. Last sitting is at 3:00pm.

Every Wednesday is Ladies Day – enjoy a Traditional Afternoon Tea with a Bucks Fizz aperitif on arrival for just £19.95.

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FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we 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 Mon 10 Aug 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 P Keay of Lincoln Close who spotted Minster The Cat on page 53 of the June issue of the Lichfield Gazette.

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Summer holiday fun

ichfield District Council has a packed programme of activities to keep children and teenagers entertained over the long summer break.

Burntwood Leisure Centre and Friary Grange Leisure Centre are running more than 80 summer holiday activities and sport courses. There is plenty on offer, including boot camps, gymnastics, badminton and swimming courses, roller skating sessions and a drama workshop.

There are many chances for young people to enjoy fun in the pool with the giant inflatable and floats sessions at both leisure centres. Burntwood and Friary Grange leisure centres are also offering ‘Footy for a Fiver’ and ‘Court Savers’, which allows children to play on a section of a synthetic football pitch for £5 and the hire of racquet courts for a reduced price. Terms and conditions apply.

Beacon Park is involved in the fun and is running a Record Breaker’s Trail over the summer, and a Wacky Sporting World Records event in Museum Gardens on Saturday 25 July. The park is also hosting a six-week golf tournament, bug hunting and pond dipping sessions, a fairy walk, as well as Green Gym workout sessions at Sainte Foy Recreation Area.

Families are also invited to put a date in the diary for Beacon Park’s Fun Day and Teddy Bear Games, taking place on Wednesday 12 August between 11am and 3pm.

Entry is free and the day features games, rides, inflatables and activities. Children can also bring along their teddy bears and compete in races, such as the ‘ted on the head’, to win prizes.

The full Holiday Fun programme is online at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun To find out more, or to book any of the courses or activities, please call Burntwood Leisure Centre on 01543 308810, Friary Grange Leisure Centre on 01543 308842, or Beacon Park on 01543 308867.

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Protect your children’s inheritance with a deed of variation

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as your loved one recently passed away, leaving everything to you, and you are now the sole owner of your property? Are you worried that, in the future, the full value of your property could be Rebecca Taylor, subject to third party claims? If the answer to both questions is yes then there is something you could do.

Rebecca Taylor, wills and probate lawyer at Ansons Solicitors in Lichfield, explains how a deed of variation can be used to solve this problem.

The terms of a person’s will are usually prepared carefully and with the best of intentions. But sometimes, the period that elapses between a person making a will and their death can be lengthy. In that time circumstances can change significantly. As a result, even though the estate is being dealt with in accordance with your loved one’s wishes, this can cause problems if the terms of the will no longer fit family circumstances.

This problem can be solved by a deed of variation, a written document varying the terms of the will. You can change the terms of your share of the estate in the will, so that the interest in your property you would have received passes into a trust, with the ultimate beneficiaries of that trust being your family members – usually your children.

You continue to own your half share in the property and have a life interest in the other half share. This would mean that if your estate becomes subject to third party claims, then only your share of the property will be vulnerable.

You must sign the deed of variation within two years of the date of your loved one’s death and you can only vary your entitlement under the will. The title deeds to the property must also be updated to transfer your loved one’s share of the property into the names of the trustees, who are usually named in the will.

It is then held on trust for the ultimate beneficiaries until your death. You will still be able to live in the property for as long as you wish, or sell it if you need to with the trustees agreement. A grant of probate is not required to complete this process. So if you have been able to deal with the rest of your loved one’s estate without one, then you will not have to incur further expenses to obtain a grant.

If you think that this situation applies to you and you would like to discuss in more detail, please get in touch with our wills and probate department to arrange a confidential 30 minute consultation, free of charge.

Please contact Rebecca Taylor on 01543 267193 or email rtaylor@ansonsllp.com. Ansons Solicitors has offices in Cannock and Lichfield, Staffordshire.

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Presentation of Burntwood AED

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n Saturday 18 July the formal presentation took place at Chasetown Methodist Church, Lawnswood Avenue, Chasetown of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) recently situated on the church railings and available to the general public. This equipment can be a life saver where someone is suffering a heart attack and its availability in the community can save precious minutes before paramedics can arrive. The presentation was made by Burntwood Lions, who provided over ÂŁ1,650 for the purchase of the AED and the metal cabinet in which it is secured.

John Haggett - A Tribute 1928 - 2015

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he much-loved, highly regarded and respected Lichfield Solicitor, John Haggett, died on 18th June at the age of 87 in Good Hope Hospital, after a 24 hour final illness. Former Sheriff, serving Under Sheriff and devoted supporter of Lichfield, John was devoted also to City hockey, as a robust player and driving force within the team. John ran the London Marathon twice and rode the Sheriff's Ride annually with great daring.

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Born in Walsall and legally trained in Birmingham, John moved to work in Bore Street because he so much enjoyed working with the general public. He was highly regarded for his Court work in planning and local authority issues and by his clients for his intellectual capacity, humanity and forthright good sense. This led to his legendary, anecdotal, entertaining and limitless cache of stories, making him a most beloved Lichfieldian for many decades.

John was Master of the Worshipful Company of Smiths in 2011, during which time he enrolled the late Allan Williamson, well-known local photographer, as a Freeman. His charitable activities were extensive but little known by the general public.

Such characterful and driven professionals as John Haggett are extremely rare in this City. He was acknowledged and valued by many hundreds over his long career. He leaves his wife, Valerie, a retired Solicitor and sons James, a teacher now returned after many years in New Zealand and Richard a Professor of Law. Many thanks to Robert White and Peter Young for the compiling of this tribute.

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Tempest Ford first Platinum Sponsor for Cathedral

empest Ford, the Ford car dealership in Lichfield, has signed up to be the first Platinum Sponsor for Lichfield Cathedral. Previously the team at Tempest Ford offered their support for the East End Appeal, which saw a £3.7m restoration of the Lady Chapel and its famous Herkenrode Glass.

Over the coming months, Tempest Ford has pledged to support the work of the stunning Cathedral through the St Chad Sculptural Project. Peter Walker, a talented sculptor has been commissioned to design and create this major new artwork, which will take the form of a 3 mtr bronze representation of St Chad, to be placed in the Cathedral grounds.

Tempest Ford are heavily involved in community organisations and projects, and are currently key sponsors for Lichfield Garrick Theatre’s ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ pantomime, the Whittington Countryside Fair, and most recently the Lichfield Greenhill Bower, where they showcased their Jack and the Beanstalk-themed Ford Fiesta, and the Lichfield Cathedral-decorated Ford Mondeo.

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Ansons solstice walkers raise over £800 for St Giles Hospice

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ressed in full pink fairy costumes, twenty one members of Ansons Solicitors took part in this year’s St Giles Hospice Solstice Walk which took place on 20 June. The team have raised a fantastic total of over £800 for the charity who offers specialist care for patients with cancer and other serious illnesses. more than 900 women took to the streets of Lichfield to raise thousands of pounds for St Giles Hospice. The annual night-time walk around the city centre took place on Saturday and this year is set to raise an incredible £100,000. The Solstice Walk is the biggest single event in the hospice’s fundraising calendar and was sponsored by Lichfieldbased Florette for the sixth year in succession.

Jagdip Bains, an associate solicitor in Ansons dispute resolution team who took part in the walk, commented ‘There was a wonderful atmosphere on the night and we are delighted that we have been able to raise over £800 thanks to kind donations. All of us value how important it is to support the great work of the hard working staff and volunteers at St Giles Hospice, who provide such wonderful support to their patients, families and carers in the local area.’

This year’s Solstice Walk also saw the addition of the Solstice Sunset Party which kicked off at 7.30pm and was a huge success.

Entertainment included hula hoop demonstrations and taster sessions, fairy-themed stilt walkers, zumba, face painting, complementary therapies, a DJ and nail art. As the sun set, an emotional balloon release took place, with hundreds of balloons with messages dedicated to loved ones set loose into the Lichfield sky.

There was also a special memory board where participants could post messages and photos – and this has now gone on display in the hospice.

The date is already set for next year’s event – Saturday 18th June.

This will be the 10th Solstice Walk. Anyone who would like to join us for this special event can sign up at www.stgileshospice.com/solsticewalk. A volunteer photographer took photographs at the event which are available to buy and will help raise further funds for the hospice. These can be viewed atwww.photoboxgallery.com/stgileshospice/.

The Ansons team are already looking forward to putting on their fairy wings for the 2016 St Giles Solstice Walk!

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The Lichfield Mercury Celebrates 200 years Paul Oakley looks at the history of our local newspaper

any congratulations to everyone at the Lichfield Mercury on this notable milestone. It’s a considerable achievement for a name to survive and still be trading after so many years… the very first issue recorded the Battle of Waterloo!

The Lichfield Mercury & Midland Chronicle was first published 200 years ago this month in July 1815 by James Amphlett. Until then Amphlett had published the newspaper at Stafford as the Staffordshire Mercury, which he had established in 1814. He sold the Lichfield Mercury in 1821 to John Woolrich of Lichfield, and in 1825 a consortium of local gentlemen, who described themselves as moderate Liberals, acquired it.

Like many of the newspapers of its day, the Lichfield Mercury was set up as much for commerce as it was for news, carrying some advertisements on the front page (much as it does today). These ‘notice style’ ads spread the word about corn and livestock markets and auctions, highlighting just how many readers made their income through farming.

It is supposed that the horse-drawn coach that carried the mail and ran from

London to Liverpool/Holyhead was called ‘The Mercury’. This fast mail-coach was eagerly greeted in each-and-every passing town by throngs of townsfolk wanting the latest news of London, the French war and the Prince Regent that would be passed on by the passengers and driver. The coaching route passed through Bird Street and it seems likely that the paper the ‘Lichfield Mercury’ chose the name of the fabled winged messenger in homage to this mailcoach (just as it is with the Leicester Mercury further down the route, although that title is only 125 years old).

Initially the publication was produced in Bore Street and later in Market Street. By 1823 the press was again in Bore Street, but in 1824 it was moved to premises at the east end of Sandford Street. A further move to the house, which later became the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, took place in 1830. George Hindle, who later became its proprietor, edited the paper, which came out every Friday. It was discontinued in 1833; the reason is not known.

Lichfield Mercury is reborn The Lichfield Advertiser (no relation to the current magazine) was started in 1865 but apparently ceased the following year. The Lichfield Chronicle (no relation to the recent Express & Star title) was published in 1877, when one of the proprietors, Frederick Brown, a

printer, severed his links with it. Brown established a rival Friday paper, and The Lichfield Mercury was reborn at premises at 36-38 Bird Street in September 1877. There is an unbroken continuation of the business to this day, a remarkable 138 years later.

Brown died in 1901 and the paper’s ownership passed to his brother Edward, who sold it to W.H. Smith & Son in 1905. Allison & Bowen, owners of Staffordshire Chronicle, later acquired the paper. On Richard Bowen’s death in 1933 another syndicate bought Lichfield Mercury. The Bird Street premises were demolished and in 1972 a new office was opened in the building now occupied by the Ma Ma Thai restaurant at 17 Bird Street.

I attended an interview for an Advertising Manager’s job there in the late 1970s, and I’m still awaiting a reply!

In recent years the Mercury came into the ownership of Central Independent Newspapers and was printed at state-ofthe-art, purpose built premises at Bitterscote, Tamworth along with its sister titles Walsall Advertiser and Tamworth Herald plus the Sutton and Great Barr Observers.

Today the Lichfield Mercury is part of Local World Group, one of the largest publishers of local news titles in the country, and is printed on presses in Stoke-on-Trent.

Sources: The Victoria County History of Staffordshire/British History on-line.

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Hannah Tells her Side of Things

By Lesley Mackness of Midlands Rat Club

i c h f i e l d ’s H a n n a h G a r l a n d appeared on ITV at the beginning of June, filmed at a Midlands Rat Club show earlier in the year.

The TV crew were keen to find out more about rats as pets and show animals, as a counterpoint to some wild rats they’d filmed.

Hannah explained to the TV crew that these relatively small rodents have the estimated intelligence and behaviour of a small dog; they easily learn their names and will come when called. They will follow their owner around and are easy to litter-tray and house train, rats can also learn simple commands and directions such as ‘home’, ‘food’, ‘upstairs’, ‘jump’ and ‘no!’

Hannah has kept fancy rats since 2004, and so enchanted was she with them, that she began breeding them in 2007.

Fancy rats have been bred selectively for generations for health and temperament and it has long been acknowledged that they make excellent pets. There are many different colours and markings to the modern fancy rat, and rat lovers are all ages, from school children to pensioners and from all walks of life: Queen Victoria herself is reputed to have kept a couple as pets.

Midlands Rat Club shows give like-minded people the opportunity to get together, discuss their rat breeding plans, admire each other’s rats and have them judged against national guidelines by rat society qualified judges.

The MRC was formed in 2001 and holds well attended shows every two months, with show venues in a ‘Midlands triangle’ in efforts to cater for its midlands members. The Club does in fact have members who travel to shows from as far a-field as London, Hull, Lincoln, Oxford and all places in between.

Entry to MRC show venues is free and you can enter your own pet rat for a small fee: see website for details.

Rat shows provide an opportunity to see firsthand what rats are really like as pets, as well as the chance to see some of the many varieties, with names such as Blue Point Siamese, Chocolate, Marten and Russian Silver.

If all this has piqued your interest, more details can be found online www.midlandsratclub.org where you can also find details of the next show, to which I’d love to welcome you personally and explain more.

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Violets in Bloom Fun Day

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he first Violets In Bloom Family Fun Day was held on June 7 at Lupin Farm, Orgreave. The day itself was held to honour what would have been the seventh birthday of Violet Mornington, daughter of Ivan and Kerry Mornington, who was born on the 3rd of June 2008 but very sadly passed away in July 2013 from a rare blood disorder, HLH (Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis)

Violets in Bloom was set up in April 2014 by Violet’s parent, Kerry and Ivan who wanted to turn their grief into something positive by helping other bereaved parents in Lichfield and surrounding areas.

On the day visitors enjoyed activities including an assault course, a variety of inflatables supplied by DC Entertainment , a Zumbathon and a performance from Bobo the African dancer/fire eater plus great food, drink and cakes galore. From the outset the day was always meant to be fun packed to reflect the fun and cheeky character of Violet. Violets in Bloom, raised a remarkable £2500 on the day towards helping bereaved parents and siblings.

The highlight of the day was the unveiling of the Shropshire and Staffordshire Blood Bike which has been named in honour of Violet. It was the idea of Phil Sutton who owns the bike and is a volunteer for the organisation who provide urgent/emergency transportation of blood, breast milk and other medical supplies to NHS foundations in Shropshire and Staffordshire.

To find out more about the charity or to donate please visit www.violetsinbloom.org.

For more information about the the Shropshire and Staffordshire Blood Bike – please visit them on facebook www.facebook.com/StaffordshireBloodBikes.

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CEO of Saatchi Gallery returns to Friary School

n 9 July a special reunion took place at the Friary School with a visit from a distinguished former student who is now a major figure in the world of contemporary art. Nigel Hurst, who left the Friary School in 1983, is now CEO at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London.

Nigel visited the school with members of his family and was reunited with two of his former and now retired Art teachers, Dave Stephenson and Jan Wilkowski. Jan surprised Nigel by presenting him with some of his A-level coursework from 1983. Nigel was also delighted to see that a mural he painted whilst a sixth former remains a prominent feature in the school and spoke warmly of how the school had given him such opportunities to develop and display his own talents.

Nigel met today’s Friary art students and gave a presentation about the Saatchi Gallery and the world of contemporary art. He offered fascinating insights into such artists as Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin and Marc Quinn, and the challenges of staging some of the gallery’s extraordinary and thought-provoking exhibits. Students and staff quizzed Nigel about street art; how works of contemporary art are valued; the controversies surrounding some of the gallery’s exhibits; how today’s artists achieve recognition and his own career in the art world.

Nigel Hurst (2nd from left), Jan Wilkowski, Richard Havill and Dave Stephenson.

4x

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Busy Bees’ founders receive OBE

usy Bees staff, parents and children have been celebrating the news that two of their founders, Marg Randles and John Woodward, will be receiving an OBE this year for their longstanding service to the childcare sector.

Busy Bees was founded thirty years ago by six teachers who wanted to make a difference in the Early Year’s sector after feeling frustrated with the lack of good quality, flexible care available for their own children. Marg and John, with their respective spouses Pete and Lynn, sold their homes to afford their first nursery.

Thirty years on Marg Randles, Busy Bees Managing Director, and John Woodward, Busy Bees CEO, are still at the helm alongside Simon Irons (FD) and Clare Phizacklea (HRD).

Busy Bees is a national network of local nurseries. Their National Support Centre is based at their Burntwood nursery in Lichfield.

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Lyric - 100% invisible - extended wear hearing aid - no one will ever see how well you can hear available on 30 days free trial!

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yric is completely invisible and is the world’s first hearing aid which can be worn for extended periods of time.

No one can see how well you can hear 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s the future of hearing!

The Lyric device from Swiss hearing aid manufacturer Phonak is placed completely in your ear canal by a trained professional, is just 12mm long and sits just 4mm from your eardrum. It offers exceptional sound quality and is the ultimate invisible hearing aid.

Rebecca Cross of Dove Hearing Centre in Lichfield said: “As a Lyric approved partner, we are excited to welcome Lyric as part of our range of products. Lyric takes your hearing loss results and creates the optimum listening for you. This digitally programmable hearing device gives a natural sound because it sits so close to your eardum. Your go to sleep hearing and awaken hearing! We have been chosen by Lyric because of our specialist technology and skilled training.”

Lyric uses the natural properties of your ears anatomy so you are hearing the way your ears are designed to! Lyric gives you

exceptional hearing and lets you live your life without constraints. It is chosen by all people who like the fact that Lyric sits completely in the ear canal so it is 100% invisible, and is the most cosmetic hearing aid on the market.

Among the celebrities wearing Lyric is Karen Hardy from Strictly Come Dancing.

Constant use

You can wear Lyric for all your daily activities, including showering, exercising and sleeping. No daily insertion or removal, battery changes or maintenance.

You are using the natural properties of your outer ear to improve localisation.

Lyric has been available in the USA since 2007, where there are thousands of people successfully wearing the instrument. It is only available to 38 hearing centres in the UK and in many other countries across the world. It is exclusive in this area to Dove Hearing Centres.

Lyric is completely different to any other hearing aid on the market due to the fact that it can be worn continuously for two months at a time. You will have no daily reminder of your hearing loss and people who currently wear Lyric say that they no longer feel like a hearing aid user.

To book your free 30 day Lyric trial call 01543 262670

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Prince Harry opens memorial to fallen of Afghanistan A

memorial to those who died during operations in Afghanistan was dedicated on June 11 at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire.

Prince Harry, along with army personnel who served in Afghanistan, were there to witness the unveiling of the memorial wall, which was previously housed at Camp Bastion in Helmand Province. The new memorial will now become a year-round symbol of remembrance to those who lost their lives.

Lichfield Tangent Celebrates

Lichfield Tangent held a celebratory luncheon to celebrate its 50th birthday on Saturday 4 July at Swinfen Hall Hotel. Speakers included Tangent’s National President, Alex Voller and Lorna Sheldon, the International Motivational Speaker.

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Celebrating 20 Years of Family Camp

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amilies connected to the 7th Lichfield Scout Group spent the first weekend in June attending an annual camp, where young people associated with either, Beavers, Cubs or Scouts came together to spend quality time with their friends and families.

This year was particularly special as the group are celebrating 20 years of 'Family Camp'. The first family camp in 1995, took place at Callow Top Campsite in Ashbourne and was started by an Explorer Leader, Paul Wagstaff. Initially there were only about 14 families involved but a new record was set on Saturday with over 350 people attending the event. The Scout group celebrated by inviting previous camp leaders to the Shugborough site, where a giant cake was cut to mark the occasion. A collection of photos were on display to show how the camp had grown in size and popularity over the years.

Everyone had the opportunity to develop their skills by participating in a range of activities from climbing, canoeing and potholing to pottery painting, following a trail blind-folded and competing in their very own, 'It's a Knockout' competition.

The main organiser of the event, Carl Hall said: "Scouting provides a great opportunity for youngsters to make new friends, learn new skills and develop their confidence and self esteem. By running this event, it gives parents an insight as to what happens at scouting nights and helps to unite the group."

Lichfield Ladies Community Challenge!

Arthur Price opens first military shop to raise funds for forces

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ocal cutlery and gift company Arthur Price has created a joint venture with the DMS Whittington on-site Regimental shop to help raise funds for forces personnel. PRI DMS Whittington was officially opened on Thursday 21st May 2015 by the Commander of DMS Whittington Surgeon Captain Stuart Millar and will, amongst others, stock various Arthur Price cutlery and gifts with proceeds to the PRI.

The PRI Shops (short for President of the Regimental Institute) are found across all bases and are run by the forces personnel for the benefit of the various serving soldiers, sailors and airman and their families. Items include gifts, clothing and military memorabilia and any surplus is used to support Regimental groups and their activities.

Arthur Price has a long history of supporting the forces, most recently when DMS Whittington was officially opened in 2014 by Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall. Simon Price, Chief Executive of Arthur Price said: “I’m simply delighted to be a part of the PRI Shop at DMS Whittington. But what is special for me is the opportunity for the local community and the barracks’ personnel to work together. Forces personnel are transient, moving from base to base but I know the DMS Whittington team wanted, from the very beginning, to be a part of the community and I hope this venture will have benefits for the base, the local area and beyond.”

Surgeon Captain Stuart Millar and Simon Price inside the new PRI Shop Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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ichfield Ladies Circle have partnered up with 12 local businesses to promote special offers throughout 2015 that benefit local good causes. Each offer is available for one calendar month, with each business enjoying up to 31 days in the limelight. Lichfield Ladies Circle promotes the 'offer of the month' heavily for each business to drum up local support.

In return the Lichfield Ladies ask that each chosen business of the month donates a fixed cash amount from the sale of the special offer. The money generated from each of the offers will be donated to the 12 local good causes selected by each business at a high profile media event in January 2016 at which the business and charities will attend.

Lichfield Ladies Circle is a friendly group of women between 18 and 45.

To find out more visit www.lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk

New Friarsgate plans unveiled

The plans for the new Friarsgate development will be on display in the window of the empty unit opposite Greggs in Three Spires Shopping Centre from 15th to 30th July.

There will also be two public exhibitions in the same space on Saturday 18 July and Saturday 25 July, from 11am to 4pm.

Drop in to hear plans for this important new development.

J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS

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

01543 300625

49A Tamworth Street, Nr Greenhill, Lichfield, Staffs WS13 6JW

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

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Consultation on Planning

Lichfield City bunting is back!

ichfield District Council has published a suite of draft supplementary planning documents. These add detail and guidance to the Local Plan policies and can help applicants make successful planning applications.

Now the council is running a consultation to get feedback on these documents. The consultation will run until 13 August 2015.

The range of documents include; Biodiversity and Development; Historic Environment; Rural Development; Trees and Development and Sustainable Design Councillor Ian Pritchard, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Development, said: “It’s important that local people and developers get the chance to see these documents and give their views.”

Anyone can comment on the documents, which are available on the council’s website at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/supplanningdocs They can also be seen in the reception of Lichfield District Council’s offices in District Council House, Frog Lane, Lichfield WS13 6YZ. Please return your comments via the council’s consultation system at http://lichfielddc-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal Comments can also be emailed to developmentplans@lichfielddc.gov.uk or sent in writing to the Spatial Policy and Delivery Manager, Development Services, Lichfield District Council, District Council House, Frog Lane, Lichfield. WS13 6YZ.

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ichfield BID Steering Group and Lichfield Food Festival have teamed up to bring bunting back to Lichfield City centre this summer.The city’s red, white and blue bunting has gone back up across city streets, thanks to funding from both the Lichfield BID Steering Group and Lichfield Food Festival.

Paul Maddox, Lichfield BID Chairman explains: “The bunting makes a massive difference the city. Not only does it brighten up the streets, it also gives a festival atmosphere to the heart of Lichfield throughout the summer months. If the Lichfield BID is successful in July it will deliver over £1 million of new projects and initiatives across Lichfield, including free WiFi, marketing and new signage. It will also bring bunting to the city every summer and will have a budget to renew and replace it when it gets tired. We thought it would be a lovely taster of what the BID could do for the city to help fund putting up the bunting this year. We’re using the city’s current bunting, which has stood us in good stead since the Olympic Torch Relay, but if the BID gets a yes vote this July, we’ll buy new bunting next year.”

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Fun at the park

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n Saturday 20 June children enjoyed hunting for creepy crawlies at three sessions that took place at Stowe Fields, and on 21 June hundreds of people enjoyed the City of Lichfield Concert Band’s free concert in Museum Gardens.

On the same day children also enjoyed creating an origami pot and planting various seeds including, French Beans, at the park’s Seed Sunday event. More than 20 people also joined Hall Green Retired Greyhound Trust on a ‘Great British Greyhound Trust Walk’ through Beacon Park. The group stopped to talk with many other park visitors, raising awareness of the Trust, on their way round the park.

Wade Street Church hosted an event in Beacon Park on Sunday 21 with an afternoon picnic and fun activities, including a football cage.

To see what’s on across Lichfield Historic Parks, visit www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk/whats-on

New Vice-Chairman for Burntwood Council

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llr Beth Fisher has undertaken her first official duty since her election as Vice Chairman of Burntwood Town Council in May. Cllr Fisher, the youngest office holder at Burntwood Town Council since it was formed, was accompanied by her cousin Harry Grosvenor Collis to Lichfield City Council’s Mayoral Service at the City’s Guildhall and the Guild Church of St Mary in May. The Chairman and ViceChairman of Burntwood Town Council have a busy program of events and engagements in the coming year, including promoting the new Burntwood Wakes Festival and representing the town at civic events across the District.

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We Love Lichfield Reaches £250,000

he We Love Lichfield fund has reached a massive milestone in just four years.

The fund has now raised £250,000, and now the aim is to double it hitting the next target of £500,000.

Money is raised through events and donations and is invested in a permanent endowment fund by the Staffordshire Community Foundation, a registered charity, 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 fund in the form of grants.

This model provides a source of ongoing funding that can be used for small grants, and

larger grants as the fund grows, for many years to come.

Simon Price, CEO of cutlery firm Arthur Price and patron of the We Love Lichfield fund, said: “I think it is testament to the people and companies throughout the Lichfield district that we have achieved this amazing milestone. The We Love Lichfield Donor Advisory Team has worked together with the support of lots of individuals and organisations. We will continue to give money away, but we still have the aim of managing the fund with the help of the Staffordshire Community Fund, and hope to reach our ultimate target of £500,000 by 2017 and everyone is welcome to support the We

Love Lichfield Fund. If you are running a marathon or organising a duck race, why not raise money for the fund?”

Only local good causes will benefit from fundraising efforts.

Organisations helped so far include Burntwood Breast Care (a club for women diagnosed with, or recovering from, breast cancer); Friends2Friends (a social group for adults with learning difficulties); Hammerwich Cricket Club, Abacus Preschool Playgroup and Whittington Community Computer Group (which teaches IT skills to older people and the disabled).

Cheque presentations are made to applicant organisations twice a year.

Speakers Corner Lichfield - Speaking Up and Speaking Out in July

Saturday 25th July at 12.00 noon - HS2 and how Lichfield can get the best out of it.

With support from political parties across the spectrum, HS2 is almost certain to become a reality, so this event is not about the pros and cons.

Instead, David Dundas will be talking about how Lichfield can take positive steps to get the best out of it and what he and 2 colleagues have done so far in taking their arguments to the Select Committee of the House of Commons. He will set out those arguments and welcomes discussion, so come along, hear what he has to say and have your say.

Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Townswomen’s Guild is back

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ownswomen’s Guilds is one of the UK’s leading women’s organisations, providing fun, friendship and a forum for social change since 1929. Over 31,000 women nationwide have joined Townswomen to enjoy events, informative national conferences, organised travel packages and to learn new skills. .

Lichfield branch was established in 1959

By Mrs Trickett (who owned the chemist’s shop). Jane Dayus-Hinch joined in 1985 but after Jane left to work in Canada, a registered membership of 76 members (30 of whom were active) declined and the numbers dropped off, and sadly the Staffordshire Federation closed it in 2006.

A reinvigorated group of former members including Jane and Caroline Kerr have re-formed the Lichfield Guild. Jane told the Gazette: “Townswomen’s Guild did a lot of good work for charity and it was a very sociable place where mothers would take their daughters from the age of 14. The activities were varied and fun with walking, theatre-going, a choir (with a great following), holidays and trips out. Townswomen’s Guild has always been a happy place to meet and that is the atmosphere we are looking to create at our meetings, which have already begun. Anyone who was a former member, or knows anyone who was a member please alert them. We have rediscovered the old chain, gavel and cloth used in the Lichfield group and it’s business as usual!”

Former members of the original Townswomen’s Guild as well as new members are welcome to come and enjoy an evening on the second Monday of each month from August 10 at 7.30pm in St Mary’s in the Market Square. Contact Chair Jane DayusHinch on 07702 967919 for more information.

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A Fantastic Festival Weekend!

This July saw two of Lichfield’s most popular events attract bumper crowds as the city basked in gorgeous sunshine (even if we also got the odd shower!)

Cars In The Park 2015

photos by Robert Yardley

The Rotary Club of Lichfield St. Chad held their annual Classic Car Show in Beacon Park Lichfield on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 of July.

2015 was the shows 17th year, and once again the event grew in size with 970 cars representing car clubs, and in excess of 1000 single entry cars taking part, plus vehicles that represented the three emergency services, twenty Motor Manufacturers’ Dealerships and a large representation from JCB. It’s estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people attended the show over two days.

All proceeds after operating costs go to the Midlands Air Ambulance and other local, national and international charities. If you would like to be part of this fantastic organisation why not join in? They meet every Tuesday at 6.45 – 7pm in The George Hotel Lichfield.

Lichfield Festival Market

photos by Joss Musgrove Knibb

The Festival Market on Saturday 4th July saw bumper crowds enjoy the extensive selection of stalls, music and entertainment laid on, for free, around The Close, Dam Street and Minster Walk. Soaring temperatures ensured a great turn out, as visitors relaxed on the cathedral lawns and explored our festival city. The Festival Market was sponsored by Florette.

Page 32 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Creative Courses

Our days are great fun, very friendly and relaxed.

Come and enjoy these courses in the homely atmosphere of Hamley Heath House. All our Hamley Heath House courses are suitable for beginners.

Cookery School on Friday 11th September: Indian Cookery Experience this time from Mughlai.

We will be cooking dishes from the Mughlai region of India with chef Amarpal and Bell. The cuisine from this area is mild, gentle, creamy, aromatic and lush. You will be cooking a traditional meal for two consisting of 5 to 6 dishes to take home. Amarpal will be delighting us with a taste of Indian street food for lunch and complementary wine. He will also be sharing his knowledge of all the beautiful spices that you will be using on the day.

Arrive at 10.00 for coffee and tea. EVERYTHING you need for the day is included. Please wear sensible footwear. Lunch and complementary wine is included. Day ends around 4.00 - 4.30 pm. Suitable for beginners. Full day ÂŁ85pp Cupcake Decoration and Sweet Making Saturday 19th September: Half day, arrive at 10.00am for a cuppa, day finishes around 1.00pm.

We are delighted to welcome our own master baker and cake designer Charlie.

You will learn a number of icing techniques including rolled sugar paste, piping, sugar roses plus how to choose colour schemes and designs. During the morning you will also have the opportunity to make some sweeties.

Charlie will show you how to giftwrap your creations ready to take home.

These will include half a dozen of your own iced decorated cupcakes and a selection of sweeties too. Everything you need is included, refreshments include coffee, tea and cake of course. Half day ÂŁ49pp.

Full and half days coming soon: Everything Chocolate with master baker and cake decorator Charlie; Always wanted to make your own wedding flowers come and learn how; Taking the stress out Christmas cake decorating and handmade Christmas biscuits; Making yummy treats for a Christmas hamper gift for that someone special; Flowers at Christmas time - door rings, swags, table centres, fireplace arrangements; Christmas Cookery with renowned chef Simon Smith.

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

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Maple Hayes praised in top Ofsted report

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ard working pupils and staff at Lichfield’s Maple Hayes Dyslexia School are celebrating receiving their ‘Good with Outstanding features’ Ofsted inspection. The Ofsted report, compiled for the Abnalls Lane school, praised the school’s leadership and management, quality of teaching, and the behaviour and safety of pupils.

Dr Daryl Brown, headteacher, praised the hard work of pupils and staff at the school, and said they were happy with the report. He commented: “We are very pleased that the behaviour and safety of our pupils has been marked as being outstanding as it shows the growing confidence the children have within the school. We want to thank them and also our hard-working staff and parents in keeping Maple Hayes to a standard we are proud to be. We will continue working hard towards improving every aspect of the school.”

Funding Boost for county’s arts organisations

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ommunity groups and arts organisations from across Staffordshire are being invited to apply for funding to deliver arts activities in their local area. The funding is available for projects or events which benefit local communities, and organisations can apply for up to £1,000.

Last year the fund supported over 40 projects with 10,000 people taking part in dance, singing, arts, music, and drama workshops. Over 42,000 people also attended events such as festivals, exhibitions, concerts and performances. Projects ranged from graduate craft development programmes to film shows in rural areas and artist residencies in care homes.

To find out more about the Community Arts Fund or to make an application visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/communityartsfund or contact Tracie Meredith, Community Arts Officer on 01785 278571.

Learn how to help guide the visually impaired

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uide Dogs are offering a further opportunity locally for sighted people to learn how to help guide the visually impaired in an interactive training session at Chasetown Methodist Church on 1st August, following a very successful session last November, which was heavily over-subscribed. There is usually a set charge for such training, which is certificated, but on this occasion, which has been again organised by Burntwood In-Sight Group, there is no charge, although donations are invited for Guide Dogs. Light refreshments will be provided before and during the morning.

Registration is from 9.30 a.m. with the session being 10.00 – 1.00 and prospective attenders need to confirm their intentions to attend with Carol Trigg on 01543 670822. This session is for those 18 and over but, if anyone younger is interested, then names can be passed on to Guide Dogs for a separate training session.

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1940s Day Specsavers

pecsavers teamed up with Blind Veterans UK this year to support them during Armed Forces Week (22nd to 28th June). During the week £1 from every eye test conducted was donated to help veterans suffering from sight loss.

Blind Veterans UK gives guidance and support to veterans as they adjust to sight loss and regain their personal independence. Whatever the level of support they need, Blind Veterans UK will work with them for the rest of their lives.

Blind Veterans UK are also celebrating 100 years of service this year for more information contact www.blindveterans.org.uk.

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Lichfield Windows there’s no substitute for experience

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ichfield Windows is a family run business with over 30 years of building and construction experience to draw on.

Lichfield Windows were born out of the award winning local builders Anthony Webb & Son who are renowned for quality building projects throughout Lichfield and southern Staffordshire.

Much of the company’s work is contained within the locality, and includes a variety of projects from Little Aston and Shenstone to Croxton and Brocton.

If you are looking for an orangery, conservatory or replacement windows, then look no further than Lichfield Windows. They are approved installers of Rehau, Residence 9, and Palladio products and recently added Solidor to their range. Palladio and Solidor doors are admired throughout the industry for their strength and safety as well as their exceptional good looks. At Lichfield Windows, you can discuss the virtues of timber look UPVC or real timber windows with experts in the field.

Want to add a lantern-style roof to a single

storey flat roof extension? Interested in bi-fold patio doors to give the room a new dimension?

Maybe you’d like to explore adding a ‘Warm Roof’ to an original conservatory building (a ‘Warm Roof’ is a tiled roof that will retain heat in the winter and shield the room from the glare of the sun in the summer)? Just talk to Lichfield Windows.

Lichfield Windows only use quality products.

They employ no high-pressure salespeople and are fully bonded with the Certass 10 years warranty (Equiv FENSA) for customer peace-ofmind. Employing a ‘no-frills’ approach to their business, Anthony Webb & Son has recently won the LABC ‘Building Excellence’ award. All their builders and fitters are qualified to MTC and City & Guilds Level 2.

Lichfield Windows not only fit and supply, they build walls, plan and redesign and even decorate for you. Why not give them a call and get a noobligation quotation? Check out more on their website www.lichfieldwindows.com

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Gearing up to repave key city streets

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taffordshire County Council is set to repave Conduit Street, Breadmarket Street and a section of Market Street from January 2016. In preparation for the works, the team at the county council will carry out small trial holes in the roads.

The repaving of Conduit Street, Breadmarket Street and the lower part of Market Street, which borders the Market Square, is necessary as some of the paving slabs laid in 2007, as part of Lichfield District Council’s repaving project, have cracked. The cracking has only affected the roads and not the pavements.

Staffordshire County Council, which is responsible for the roads, working in conjunction with Lichfield District Council, is set to repave them early next year. The works will be part-funded by monies retained from the original project by the district council.

Cllr Mark Deaville, Cabinet Support Member for Highways and Transport at Staffordshire County Council, explains: “Based on feedback from city traders, we’re planning to carry out the repaving works from January 2016, when it will have the least impact on local trade and shoppers. In advance of this we’re doing some investigatory testing. The results of this will help us to plan the finer engineering details.

“Once the testing is complete, we will be able to put together a firm project plan for the repaving works, which are likely to take around three months to complete. In order to minimise disruption to shoppers and businesses, we will be doing the work in three phases. Our aim will be to keep the city centre operational and open to essential traffic throughout the works.”

The project team will continue to work with Lichfield Town Team and Lichfield BID Steering Group to plan the exact timings of the repaving works. If anyone wants to give their views about the timings of the works, please contact Elizabeth Thatcher, Chair of Lichfield Town Team, by emailing elizabeth.thatcher@lichfielddc.gov.uk Cllr Ian Pritchard, Cabinet Member for Economy & Development at Lichfield District Council, said: “We are delighted that the repaving works are set to go ahead and will be working with traders over the coming months to confirm the exact timing of the works."

The cracking has also affected Market Square, which is owned and managed by Lichfield City Council. Separate repaving works to the Market Square are planned for later this year. The city council are working to ensure the repaving works will cause the least possible disruption to the market, which will continue throughout the works, and to the city centre.

Cllr Mark Deaville continued: "We would like to reassure shoppers, visitors and businesses that between now and when the works start, we are stepping up the frequency of repairs to the affected roads. In the long-term, the paving will be replaced with a more attractive and hard wearing finish, so we hope everyone will bear with us. We also put the new paving on display in the district council house in the coming months, so people can see what the renewed streets will look like."

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Chiropractic expertise in Lichfield for over 30 years

Clinic in ssington Lichfield was founded in 1982 by David and Pia Antrobus who graduated from the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic in 1976 and 1978 respectively.

There are now four chiropractors who between them have 110 years’ of experience in delivering the most effective manual assessment and treatment of the spine and the entire musculo-skeletal system.

They are dedicated to excellence in diagnosing TAILORED TREATMENT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL’S diverse problems and refer UNIQUE NEEDS to the relevant medical specialists if the problem lies outside their scope of practice.

Essington Clinic creates specifically tailored treatment programmes for each individual, because each person will have unique needs. A wide range of manipulative techniques are employed to relieve pain and muscle spasm, reduce strains and stress, improve mobility and normalise joint function. Ultrasound, dry needling (akin to acupuncture) and Low Level Laser therapy are also available. The treatment is supported with advice about lifestyles, work, exercise, nutrition and preventative measures to avoid further injury and to prevent recurrences.

People of all ages and from all walks of life can benefit from chiropractic assessment and treatment.

Chiropractors are skilled at managing a wide variety of problems, in particular:-

• Acute low back pain • Migraine • Hip osteoarthritis • Shoulder girdle pain • Cervicogenic dizziness • Patello-femoral pain syndrome • Tennis elbow • Chronic neck pain

SPECIALIST CARE FROM BIRTH TO RETIREMENT AND BEYOND

• Acute whiplash-type disorders • Chronic low back pain • Cervicogenic headache • Knee osteoarthritis • Frozen shoulder • Acute/sub acute neck pain • Plantar fasciitis • Extremity joint conditions

Babies and Young Children

Birth traumas occur with difficult births involving forceps, vacuum extraction and caesarean delivery. Even in a normal birth, problems can be caused by traction on the baby’s neck during the last stage of delivery.

Chiropractic check-ups in childhood are essential. Children, like adults, suffer from the effects of poor posture, uncomfortable working positions and unsuitable beds/pillows. Lounging in soft chairs or sitting in front of a computer screen for long periods produce poor posture and school desks are often too low for taller children. Not all “growing pains” are normal or inevitable.

www.essingtonclinic.co.uk info@essingtonclinic.co.uk

132 Birmingham Road • Lichfield Staffordshire • WS14 9BW

Call 01543 256 844 Page 41

WW1 stories come to Stoke O

n Saturday 13th June, deputy editor of the Lichfield Gazette, Joss Musgrove Knibb gave a talk on her book, First Lines, at the Stoke Literary Festival.

Joss was part of a line-up that included Michael Palin, Andy McNab, Margaret Drabble and Alistair Campbell.

First Lines was first published in October last year and will soon be on its third print run. It contains the neverbefore-published WW1 stories, letters and first-hand accounts of four Staffordshire Regiment men – Alfred Bull of Lichfield, Syd Norton of Tamworth, James Stevenson of Stoke-on-Trent and finally Jake Armes’ amazing account of the 1914 Christmas Truce.

The grandsons of Sergeant James Stevenson (who died in 1917 at Passchendaele) attended the talk and presented Joss with a pen to thank her for bringing their ancestor’s story to light. Tickets to the talk sold out.

Joss has recently recorded a series of interviews with BBC Stoke and Staffordshire presenter Den Seigertsz that were serialised over the period of a week.

She has also been invited to give a talk at the National Memorial Arboretum on ‘Christmas in the Trenches’ that will take place on Thursday 17th December. For more information follow Joss on Facebook and Twitter or go to jossmusgroveknibb.wordpress.com First Lines is published by Gazelle Press and retails at £9.99. It is available to purchase at good bookshops including WH Smith in Three Spires Shopping Centre, St Mary’s in the Market Square, Emporium gallery on Bird Street, the Cathedral Shop on The Close and the National Memorial Arboretum. First Lines is also available through amazon.co.uk

Lichfield’s Monthly Collection L

ichfield’s Monthly Collection has been set up in response to a national initiative called The Homeless Period, which aims to highlight the lack of access to sanitary products for women without homes. A central collection point for people to donate these items has been set up at the Earl of Lichfield pub on Conduit Street, and there will be a collection point set up in North Lichfield very shortly. Groups of friends and colleagues have also started their own collections in community centres and workplaces.

Each month, all of the donations are picked up by a volunteer and distributed to homeless shelters in the Midlands via the Socks and Chocs team (www.socksandchocs.co.uk) and the Birmingham Homeless Outreach group. If anyone is interested in hosting a collection point for the public to make donations, or is part of a group that would like to start its own collection, please contact Kate on 07742 917 708 or email lichfieldmonthlycollection@yahoo.co.uk.

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Cathedral announces Arthur Price partnership

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rthur Price h a s announced a new partnership with Lichfield Cathedral that will benefit both organisations and the local area. The partnership will include selling Arthur Price gifts at the Cathedral Shop in The Close, before the creation of joint promotions to attract more visitors to the Arthur Price Lichfield shop on Britannia Way and the Cathedral.

Simon Price, CEO of Arthur Price said: “I think it’s really important for local people and organisations to work together for mutual benefit. We hope that people who visit the wonderful Cathedral, not forgetting the magnificent Close, will now have even more reasons to pop into the Cathedral Shop; the proceeds of which go towards the upkeep of the Cathedral plus some amazing buildings surrounding it.”

Museum Club defeats City Council!

On Wednesday, 1 July, the hottest day of the year so far, the Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Andrew Smith, partnered by his father Mr Roy Smith led the City Council Bowls team to a resounding defeat on the Museum Green in Beacon Park for the annual Swinfen Broun Challenge Bowls Match. The final score after a lengthy game was 180 for the Museum Club Team to 75 for the Council Team.

The teams retired to the Hub for w e l l - e a r n e d refreshments provided by the Bowls Club – to discuss not so much the game, more the hot weather!

Image by Peter Young. The Mayor presenting the President of the Museum Club Mr Geoffrey Parkinson with the trophy.

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TONY’S CHARITY SOIREE EVENING RAISED OVER £12,000

charity evening for the benefit of St Giles Hospice was held at The Winehouse in Bird Street on Sunday 31 May. This most pleasant event was hosted by The Winehouse and arranged by Tony Vaughan Director of Lichfield’s Hearing Centre, Hidden Hearing. This was the culmination of much hard work specifically by Tony, his brother David and nephew Neale, who have now raised over £17,000 in six months for the hospice, who have centres in Walsall, Whittington and Sutton Coldfield.

St Giles Hospice is a registered charity providing high-quality medical and nursing care for local people living with cancer and other serious illnesses, as well as offering support for their families and helpers. Hidden Hearing in Lichfield has supported St Giles Hospice since opening nearly fifteen years ago.

Tony explained the reason for the fundraising from his own personal perspective: “I have seen people close to me like my own Mother, Father-in-Law and quite recently one of my patients suffer with cancer and their final days were treated with compassion from the marvellous staff at St Giles Hospice. They do a wonderful job of work for our community, and so we decided that we would like to raise some money to help.

“We were astounded by the generosity of the business community in Lichfield who are asked every day to fund various charities in the area. So it made it very special the way they responded to my call for items we could use for our charity auction and raffle.

“Our gratitude goes to The Winehouse for the use of the restaurant, drinks and superb food as well as supplying staff for the evening. Without their help and support we couldn’t have done it. We thank Kirk who came up from Bournemouth to play for us, and to John Silk and his four-piece band ‘Rendezvous’ who all supplied their time free of charge.

“Businesses who supplied items for the auction include: Netherstowe House Hotel; Packington Moor; Fortescues ladies fashions; Swinfen Hall Hotel; Silks Hair Design; Graeme Hewes Menswear; Tesco; DJ Ward Hair Design; McKenzies Restaurant; Lee Garden; Qmin; Red Rose; Pizza By Goli; Lichfield Garrick Theatre; Friary Shoes; Dame Oliver Fashions; Worth Bros. Wines; La Rieve Winebar and ES Jewellery. An item donated

by Sheldon Jewellers fetched over £300 and a cycle from Freedom Cycles raised £300 (after Debby persuaded Raleigh Cycles to donate a top-of-the-range ladies cycle). Other donations on the evening included vouchers from both Winterton’s and Hanson’s auctioneers as well as a two night stay at a top Bath Hotel, a week’s accommodation in Portugal, and a week in Lanzarote with flights. We thank all of these businesses for their support.”

Cathy Vaughan, Michael Colclough, Chris Laken, Debbie Lakin and Tony Vaughan

Roy Vaughan, Maxine and family

Paul and Rosie Knight, Kerry Wilkinson and James Tucker

Graeme Hewes and Carolyn Devereux

Andrew Smith (Mayor of Lichfield) and Sallyanne Smith

Ian, Charlotte, Helen and Emily Fortescue

Beau, Charlotte Stevie and Mike Sheldon (Sheriff of Lichfield)

Cathy Harborne with Hazel & James Tilly Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Tammy and David Ward with guests Steve and Camilla Cukrowsky

Mr & Mrs Robert Houghton

Joanne McCoy, Tony Vaughan, Michael Woodward with his parents Carol and Tony, Dave Murphy

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Businesses to vote on BID

usinesses in Lichfield are being asked to vote throughout July in favour of establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) that is poised to deliver over £1 million city centre improvements over the next five years This month, businesses across Lichfield will be asked to vote in favour of establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) in the city. If successful it will be the first city centre BID in Staffordshire and will follow in the footsteps of the 13 BIDs across Birmingham and 208 other BIDs already established across the UK. Paul Maddox, Chairman of the Lichfield BID Steering Group, and owner of The Scales and Three Spires Coffee Shop, explained: “A Business Improvement District, or Simon Lumb, Michelle Baker and Paul Maddox BID, is where all businesses in the city centre take ownership and create a five-year business plan detailing new projects and initiatives to increase footfall, sales turnover and raise the profile of an area. It is funded through all businesses contributing towards the projects, from marketing businesses and their sectors, through to new events, parking offers, free WIFI for shoppers and businesses and more. A BID will create a stronger voice for businesses in Lichfield. Representing 500 local businesses the BID will have enormous influence and lobbying powers as proven elsewhere. If successful the Lichfield BID will also deliver more than £1 million investment into the city centre over the next five years.”

The Lichfield BID proposals have been created by a group of passionate city traders and businesses known as Lichfield BID Steering Group, with the input of hundreds of city businesses. The group was formed in early July 2014, following a successful BID feasibility study that showed over 55% of businesses supported the idea of a BID. There official BID Ballot takes place this July. Businesses have received ballot papers can vote via these papers.

Paul Oakley, Editor of Lichfield Gazette added: "Our own business is a reflection of the many businesses who are our advertisers. A thriving local economy is paramount not only to us, but to all who work in the retail, catering and service industries of the City centre. Businesses in neighbouring towns are taking advantage of their opportunity to develop their own successful Business Improvement District, in fact Sutton Coldfield are about to vote for a second five year term. Lichfield MUST take this opportunity, or we can sit on our hands and do nothing."

To find out more about the BID, including downloading a copy of the five year Lichfield BID business plan, visit www.lichfieldbid.co.uk

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New President for Lichfield Rotary Club

Three Spires goes green for charity

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he new President of the Rotary Club of Lichfield was inducted on Thursday 2 July at the weekly meeting of the Club at Darnford Moors Golf Club. The new President, David Mayes, has lived in Lichfield for almost 40 years and is a former headteacher of comprehensive schools in Birmingham. David was awarded an O.B.E. for services to education just prior to his retirement in 1994. He then served as a Trustee of Lichfield Citizens Advice Bureau and was Vice Chairman of Governors of King Edward VI School for 12 years. He is currently Secretary of Lichfield Civic Society.

In his introductory speech he congratulated the retiring President, David Kershaw on the excellent work of the last year which saw an increase in the level of funds raised for charities to a figure of over £10,000 annually.

The new President emphasised that while continuing the Club’s support for local charities such as Midlands Freewheelers (blood bikers), St Giles and Donna Louise Hospices, he wishes to concentrate on helping young people.

The Club meets every Thursday at 12.30 p.m. and currently has 32 members and a number of Associate and Honorary members. New members who wish to give something back to their community in a welcoming and companionable atmosphere should contact Rotarian John Cole on 01889-562406.

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St Giles Hospice summer raffle

ickets are now on sale for the super St Giles Hospice Summer Raffle, offering players the chance to win some great prizes, including the jackpot choice of either a brand new Ford Ka or £8,000. Runner-up prizes up for grabs include a holiday in the Canaries and a home entertainment system (or its cash equivalent), plus a superb selection of further prizes. Summer Raffle tickets cost just £1 each, and each ticket sold helps St Giles Hospice provide specialist care for local people living with cancer and other serious illnesses.

The Summer Raffle draw will take place on Friday 31st July. Tickets can be purchased either from St Giles Hospice Shops, online atwww.stgileshospice.com/raffle or by calling the ticket hotline on 01543 434020.

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

n Saturday 27th June, Macmillan Cancer Support staged a takeover day at Three Spires Shopping Centre with music, food, fun and entertainment on offer that raised over £2,000. The event, which saw Three Spires covered in Macmillan’s trademark green, was organised by the charity’s Tamworth and Lichfield Villages Committee, to help raise awareness of the organisation and the work it does.

The group has raised more than £60,000 since being set up four years ago, with monthly events. Macmillan provides healthcare, financial and emotional support for those living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

The hog roast proved very popular and scores of youngsters queued up to have their faces painted while others kept the ice cream seller extremely busy on such a sunny day.

Alongside the family fun at the Three Spires, Macmillan also arranged for a medical professional to be there on the day to offer support and advice to anyone who needed it.

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Take Some Positive Steps This Summer!

ost of us have grand plans to improve our fitness, get out more or lose weight over Summer. We don’t all stick to it however! Walking is a simple, free and relatively easy way to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. It is suitable for all ages and walks are very flexible, capable of being customised to most fitness levels. NHS Choices say that regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, stroke and some cancers.

You can plan walks on your own, or with family and friends, in most cases it is best to build up gradually, but to get the health benefits from walking it needs to be moderate-intensity aerobic activity (walking fast enough to raise your heartbeat and break a sweat).

Staying Motivated A good way to stay motivated and to make sure you walk regularly is to join a walking group. Joining a walking group is also a great way to see some great scenery and make new friends. It makes doing some exercise enjoyable and sociable!

Join in!

Positive Steps is the new walk programme from Age UK South Staffordshire funded by the BIG Lottery and Cannock Chase District Council. It includes an extensive range of over 35 walks per month across the area at various levels, led by trained walk leaders, who have trained under the Walking for Health scheme.

Our Walking Opportunities Our walk programme is downloadable off the website www.ageuk.org.uk/brandpartnerglobal/sout hstaffordshirevpp/walking%20programme%2 0for%20web.pdf You can telephone 01785 788 472 or 498, or contact us by email at susan.blower@ageuksouthstaffs.org.uk Walks are free of charge and open to all ages and abilities. Each walk is colour coded to show likely length and terrain. If you think you might be interested in joining a group, you can just come along for one walk

to see what its like, you are not signing up for any regular pattern (although many of the walks are weekly if you want to start a programme) you can also join in any of the walks on the programme suitable for your abilities and inclination.

Consider volunteering and leading walks yourself?

Our extensive walk programme could not take place without our trained volunteer walk leaders.

Our walk leaders have a formal one day training course through Walking for Health, ongoing support and development, reviews and chance to meet up with other walk leaders and other volunteers. It is a great way to keep fit, develop leadership skills and make friends yourself. You can chose to lead a regular walk or

more than one walk, once trained and comfortable leading walks, or undertake a more occasional commitment. There is flexibility to meet most needs and requirements. The training is completely free of charge. Volunteers receive necessary expenses incurred in undertaking the role. Please contact us if you would like to find out more - Sue on 01785 788 472 or Laura on 01785 788 498.

For further information contacts Age UK South Staffordshire www.ageuk.org.uk/southstaffs, NHS Choices – www.nhs.uk/, Walk 4 Life – www.walk4Life.info/ or Walking for Health – www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Page 47

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Council seeks more Lichfield Proms sponsors

ichfield Proms in Beacon Park is a free event for the whole family, and Lichfield District Council is hoping more local businesses will come forward to help raise the money needed to stage the end-of-summer concert.

This year’s Lichfield Proms is on Saturday 5 September, when thousands of locals will gather in Beacon Park for a spectacular evening of entertainment. Set to feature The British Police Symphony Orchestra and the City of Lichfield Concert Band, along with classically trained singers, and a fireworks finale, it is the event to end the summer in style.

Sponsoring proms gives companies an unrivalled opportunity to promote their businesses to thousands of local people and visitors.

Sponsors can benefit from their logos appearing on posters, leaflets, the glossy programme, news stories and a listing on the Lichfield Proms website.

Lichfield Proms sponsors also have VIP seats and parking at the event. Sponsorship packages range from ÂŁ50 to ÂŁ2,000, and companies can also take advantage of a special corporate entertainment package.

If you are interested in sponsoring Lichfield Proms, please email proms@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call 01543 308866.

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Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

New kit for Friary Tennis Club

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irmingham recruitment consultancy Bell Cornwall Recruitment has sponsored new kit for Lichfield Friary Tennis Club’s junior squads.The youngsters, aged seven to 16, get regular coaching from Lichfield Friary Tennis Club head coach Michael Hampson.

BCR director Charlotte Bell said the firm was delighted to be sponsoring the youngsters.

Charlotte Bell, Jeremy Cornwall, Michael Hampson and members of the Under14 squad

Local writer wins prestigious People’s Book Prize

H

umorous author Carol E. Wyer from Abbot’s Bromley scooped the People's Book Prize award in May at a ceremony held at Stationer's Hall in London and broadcast live on Sky News.

The People's Book Prize is the only book award where the public is the judge. It was founded by Dame Beryl Bainbridge DBE and Frederick Forsythe CBE is its current patron.

Wyer’s winning book Grumpy Old Menopause is one in a series of books about growing old disgracefully that also includes How Not to Murder Your Grumpy and her new book about adventure travel for over 50s, Grumpies on Board.

She is an advocate for trying new things even when you are old enough to know better – and since retiring has swam with sharks, jumped out of an airplane and (the most terrifying of all) put together and performed her own stand-up comedy event, Smile While You Still Have Teeth. (There are plans to take it to Edinburgh Fringe next year.)

SHOP TO LET

Tudor Row Lichfield City Centre Location 276 sq ft ground floor

OFFICE/ROOMS TO LET

Business use above prestigious premises in centre of Lichfield. Low inclusive monthly rent, short terms available.

Tel: 01543 263951 for more info.

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Hansons bring the style

ansons Auctioneers are delighted to be holding a specialist Costume and Textile sale on Monday 27 July, showcasing an array of period and stylish costume from a single-owner Burton collection.

Leading the collection is a dazzling Coronation robe and coronet once worn by Lady Inverclyde, complete with original box and ermine Capes. The impressive robe marks the historic event of King Georges VI Coronation, which took place at Westminster Abbey, London, on the 12 May 1937.

With heavy gold embroidery and metre upon metre of plush red velvet – the gown and coronet embodies an air of wealth and importance, reflecting the ‘celebrity’ lifestyle Lady Inverclyde once lived. There is no doubt the spirit of Lady Inverclyde is woven through the iconic gown and with an estimate of around £200-£400, it is sure to get all fashion and textile fans flocking.

Also having a fashion moment in our July textile auction is an exquisite 1920s wedding dress in silver sequins and beads - with chiffon gadots around the hem and a matching wig-cap. Inspired by iconic looks from the silver screen of the time, and the eclectic Art Deco and Art Nouveau design movements.

One of the earliest pieces in the collection is an 1869-70 Victorian dress in purple shot silk - with a hooped collar and cap sleeve detail.

For further enquiries about this auction, please contact the saleroom on 01283 733988 or email textiles@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk.

Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The Lichfield Prize 2015

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he Lichfield Prize is an annual visual art competition organised by Emporium gallery in partnership with the Lichfield Festival and sponsored by Tempest Ford Lichfield.

This year, under the exhibition title ‘Field of Vision’, artists were invited to creatively interpret the festival theme of landscapes and journeys.

The winner, John Rattigan, was announced at the launch of the Lichfield Festival on 3rd July at Lichfield Cathedral.

He receives a cash prize of £500 sponsored

by Tempest Ford plus a solo gallery exhibition in Emporium gallery in Bird Street.

Also highly commended were Michael Cook with Night Prayer and David White with Mousehole Studio.

The winning piece and other finalists work forms the Field of Vision exhibition in the cathedral and the exhibition continues at the gallery in Bird Street with selected works.

Business Connect Show

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he ever popular Business Connect Show took place at Lichfield Rugby Club on Tuesday 9th June.

The show saw the business community come together to share ideas and inspiration and meet new members of the team!

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Jewellery party at Salloways Jewellers!

n Saturday 4 July, Endless Jewelry and Salloways Jewellers hosted a special VIP Day in the colourful spirit of must-have brand Endless Jewelry.

The event kicked off at 10am at Salloways on Bore where Street, customers enjoyed a glass of champagne and fresh strawberries whilst discovering Endless Jewelry’s composable leather charm bracelet collection. On the day customers and guests also entered a prize draw to win an Endless charm bracelet worth £250.

During this VIP event, the first 20 customers to purchase one of Endless Jewelry’s starter bracelets for £55 received a free silver Endless charm. Guests attending the events also received an exclusive Endless Jewelry goodie bag.

Nigel Salloway, Managing Director of Salloways commented: "Saturday’s promotional event was a wonderful opportunity to launch the vibrant Endless Jewelry collection to the people of Lichfield. It is sure to be the next 'must have' jewellery brand.”

10% OFF WITH THIS ADVERTISEMENT Terms & conditions apply

Page 55

Lichfield pupil wins national competition

Burntwood Singers celebrate Golden Jubilee B

urntwood Singers celebrate their fiftieth anniversary this year. Founded in 1965 as The Burntwood Choral Society, the choir is well-known locally, having sung in a wide variety of venues, including many of the area’s churches, and collaborated with local schools, music groups and other choral societies.

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ell done to Elena Hill (9), one of a small group of pupils from St Peter and St Paul Catholic Primary School who submitted their poems into a Young Writers poetry competition. The winner’s work has been featured in a book entitled ‘Out of this World’.

Young Writers aims to encourage young people to engage in creative writing. They work with schools, parents and young writers, running national poetry and creative writing competitions through schools; providing free resources to teachers to aid them in teaching young writers; providing poetry and creative workshops for young writers and awarding prizes to both schools and pupils across the UK. Paul Hill, Elena’s dad told the Gazette: “We were thrilled to hear that Elena’s poem had not only been entered into the book, but it has been chosen by the publishers as ‘best in the book’.”

Czech Me Out!

By Elena Hill

It's not much of a secret, But not everybody knows.

You can't tell from my accent, You can't tell from my clothes.

I'm a bit like fish and chips, I'm a slice of bábovka.

Everyone knows I'm a Hill, Do you know I'm Rakowska?

Czech summers are always hot, And winters bring deep, deep snow.

To the river in the sun, And winter sledging we go.

I do like being English, With my English family, But don't forget I am Czech, I am happy being me.

Page 56 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The choir has been fortunate in having a small number of dedicated conductors who have given long service and so the present conductor Marian Brannan is only the fifth person to take on the role. Currently the choir presents three main concerts during the year, with Christmas and Summer concerts taking place in Burntwood Memorial Hall whilst an Easter event is usually held in one of the local churches.

Burntwood Town Council sponsors the choir, whose aims have always been to offer a focus for local residents who enjoy choral singing and at the same time to entertain lovers of all types of music in Burntwood and the surrounding area.

In addition, it tries to support the local community through fund-raising for charities. In recent years these have included the Alzheimer’s Society, Staffordshire Air Ambulance and the Stephen Sutton Appeal.

The 50th anniversary was marked by a Summer Concert held in Burntwood Memorial Hall on Saturday 27th June.

Conducted by Marian Brannan, with accompaniment by Christine Collins, the choir offered a varied programme selected to represent the wide range of music performed over the years. Summer activities concluded with an anniversary dinner, held on 1st July in St. Matthew’s Social Club, Burntwood and attended by choir members past and present, their families and friends.

Rehearsals, which are held weekly on Tuesday evenings at Hammerwich Community Centre, will resume in September, in preparation for the Christmas concert on Friday 11th December. More members – soprano, alto, tenor or bass – are always welcome and the choir would be delighted to have some new recruits to swell the ranks for their sixth decade.

Further details are available from secretary Julie Greenway on 07539083290.

Quality and Variety in the Centre of Lichfield

Restaurants, Florist, Clothes Shop, Hairdresser, Beauty, Fashion Accessories, Gifts, Handbags and more.

Easy to find from the bus and train station and multi-storey car park.

Secret Garden Celebrating 26 years in business, and 20 years in Tudor Row, Secret Garden are as well known for their floral design consultancy as they are for being a quality florist.

Their work is regularly seen within Swinfen Hall Hotel and Lichfield Golf and Country Club. But of course their best work is saved for the many good folk of Lichfield, who have happily chosen Secret Garden for Weddings, Birthdays, Floral Tributes and more. Find them at 6 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH. 01543 418710.

Tudor Row Barbers No. 3 Tudor Row is the place to go if you want a traditional barber providing great haircuts for men and boys. Tudor Row Barbers was established over 18 years ago and Paul and his team are open six days a week offering an excellent men’s grooming service where an appointment is not always necessary. The cost is very reasonable at £11.50 for men, £10.50 for boys and only £8.50 for OAPs. Tudor Row can be accessed from Wade Street at one end and Bore Street at the other.

your skin feel firmer, smoother and with an improved tone. Teeth whitening using professional non-peroxide teeth whitening products are also available.

Velvet Stag Velvet Stag was launched in 2013 out of a love for unusual and beautiful things. As a buyer for many international companies for almost two decades, Wendy Dee, the owner, has a passion for seeking out fabulous yet original products. She also has a strong belief in sourcing as many products as possible that are manufactured here in the U.K. Whether it's a neon-pink bison head, a luxury throw or a keyring for your caravan, they've got it covered.

Velvet Stag in Tudor Row also offer a oneof-a-kind Pet Portrait service.

Cathedral Cosmetic Clinic Cathedral Cosmetic Clinic in Tudor Row are an aesthetic clinic specialising in injectable cosmetics. The head clinician has over 15 years' experience in this area of medicine.

Consultations are free, friendly and relaxed, and there is no pressure to then move forward. They work with their clients to build up a relationship and to achieve the best and most natural results.

They aim to restore, enhance and complement your existing youthfulness and beauty.

The Tudor of Lichfield This magnificent building at the Bore Street entrance to Tudor Row dates back to 1510 and has been a family run business since 1936. One of the most recognisable and famous buildings in Lichfield houses the renowned Tudor of Lichfield restaurant. Enjoy a champagne breakfast, a morning coffee, a wonderful lunch or afternoon tea, or indulge in some of their fine luxury chocolates before walking along Tudor Row to visit the splendid shops and businesses.

Erase UK You will find the unisex solution to unwanted hair at Erase UK, 1 Tudor Row. They use the IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Hair Removal System, an innovative, reliable and safe method of removing hair for both men and women.

Also, they can offer IPL Skin Rejuvenation which will make

Bringing you the most exciting unmissable and unique gifts and accessories that will make every room, person and pet in your life smile.

Bring this advert into store to receive 10% off your purchase.

Coupon valid until 29th August. Ts&Cs apply, see in store for details.

01543 262226 www.velvetstag.co.uk Velvet Stag, 4 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH Page 57

Tudor Row Additions of Lichfield Additions of Lichfield was established in Tudor Row in May 2013 specialising in accessories for men and women. Since the shop opened, the demand for hats has grown so that now hats account for more than 50% of sales. Promoting British Brands (including Christy’s, Olney, John Foster, Proppa Toppa and Peak & Brim) wherever possible, Additions has now sold hats all over the world. But this shop is about so much more than hats. If you need quality and style you will find it in the range of Classic Canes and seat sticks and The Taylors’ of Old Bond St shaving products, A growing category is the affordable watches and jewellery from Festina, Bcharmed and Heathergems and many others.

Open Mon to Sat 10am to 5.00pm Lichfield Bags 4 U Top quality fashion handbags, satchels, evening bags, purses and scarves at affordable prices. Lichfield Bags 4 U stock Anna Smith and LYDC and there is a 10% discount if you take in the advertisement from this feature. Check out and ‘like’ our Facebook page – LICHFIED BAGS 4 U, for offers, discounts, competitions etc. Visit the shop at 2 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH or online at www.lichfieldbags4u.co.uk. Open Tues - Sat 10am to 5pm.

SHOP TO LET

Tudor Row Lichfield City Centre Location 276 sq ft ground floor

OFFICE/ROOMS TO LET

Business use above prestigious premises in centre of Lichfield.

Low inclusive monthly rent, short terms available.

Tel: 01543 263951 for more info.

AFFORDABLE HAIR DRESSING Mollie Georgiou

aged 22, new stylist recently joined the

Bene Umbra team.

Make an

appointment with Mollie for an introductory

special price.

Appointments are not always necessary but advisable to avoid disappointment.

Call 01543 250676 9 Tudor Row, Lichfield

NOW OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

rest@tudor-lichfield.co.uk Page 58 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Bene Umbra Top quality hairdressing at a fraction of ‘big salon’ prices is available at Bene Umbra. Cut and blow dry from £19.95. Gents cut £11.50. Also full head highlights with cut and blow dry from £49.95. Open six days a week, Bene Umbra are right in the heart of Tudor Row at No.9 and their superb team of hairstylists are waiting to welcome you into their spacious salon. Tel: 01543 250 676. Mollie Georgiou recently joined the Bene Umbra team, book an appointment with her for an introductory special price.

Tudor Row Tudor Row Barbers Established 18 years

Traditional & Modern Hairdressing for men & boys

• Mens - £11.50 • Boys £10.50 • O.A.P’s - £8.50

Open 6 days a week No appointment needed Tudor Row, Off Wade Street, Lichfield.

Tel:

01543 263351

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A Victorian Salesman’s Sample Case

By Lyn Tyler of St Mary’s in the Market Square

n storage at Lichfield Museum and preserved in a special archival box, can be found a rather battered brown leather attaché case, securely fastened by a thick leather belt.

This is, on the outside, a fairly incongruous object, but once opened the eye is met by a cacophony of colour. On the lid is displayed in a typical Victorian style of advertising, drawings of various delicacies for breakfast, dinner, tea and supper.

There is an array of bread and rolls all made with ‘Self Rise Baking Powder’; custard tarts and blancmanges made with custard and blancmange powders and a selection of delicious looking cakes, including an elaborate five tier sponge and Swiss rolls produced with the aid of ‘Self Rise Egg Powder’. A glorious display of large jellies in various improbable shapes and sizes and a variety of vivid colours cover the lid. Underneath, appears the name of the manufacturer of all of these powders and jellies: Joseph Benjamin Bailey of the Eclipse Works, Bore Street in Lichfield.

The case contains two trays divided into different sized compartments, each securely holding an often beautifully decorated box, containing samples of the sort of products available. What is surprising about these samples is that they are not restricted to items used in food preparation. The case is itself interesting but what of the manufacturer Joseph B. Bailey?

The first known advertisement for the company appeared in 1886. By consulting the Directory of Streets, which can be found in the Lichfield Record Office, it can be confirmed that Joseph Bailey had been living and working at 36, Bore Street from 1886 as well.

The premises are the rather tall building attached to the end of the Five Gables, which is now occupied by ‘Loafers Sandwiches’. The length of the building when viewed from the side reveals plenty of space at the rear to accommodate the Eclipse Works.

By the time of the 1891 census, Bailey’s family consisted of his wife Emilie and their two children, a son of 9 and a daughter of 2 years of age. The household also included Thomas

Davies, a 19 year old Chemist’s Assistant from Wales and two domestic servants - Francis Scott, 17, listed as a housemaid and Edith Andrews, 14, described as a servant and nurse.

What local trade directories and the census reveal is that far from being merely a manufacturer of foodstuffs as one might expect from the lid of the case, Joseph Bailey is a dispensing and family chemist, more generally described as a manufacturing chemist.

This was not unusual as by the early 19th century, many chemists and druggists had begun to diversify into allied trades, encouraged by the great advancements made in Chemistry. In 1843, Jacob Bell wrote of the three divisions; operative chemists, dispensing chemists and manufacturing chemists. Mr Bailey obviously fell into the latter category.

This can be illustrated by the array of samples in the case. Many of the products are medicinal items, such as; ‘Gregory Powders’, for stomach upsets and ‘Seidzlitz Powders’, a preparation which claimed to relieve indigestion, heartburn and bilious affectations.

However, there are other items such as; pickling spices, borax, gingerbeer powders, fuller’s earth, laundry whiteners and starches and ‘Bailey’s Glazine Tablets’, which were guaranteed to put a fine glaze on linen cuffs, collars and shirt fronts.

The case is an intriguing piece of social and commercial history and it reveals the importance of the role played by the traveling salesmen, taking advantage of the extensive railway network, to widen markets for their employers.

It also raises the question of Mr Bailey’s motives in employing traveling salesmen. Was it because he was struggling to make sufficient profits merely supplying the citizens of Lichfield, or did he possess an entrepreneurial spirit, which encouraged him to try to expand his

business further? We may never know.

What we do know is that manufacturing chemists, like Mr Joseph B. Bailey, were eventually superseded, by larger nationwide concerns such as Boots and Timothy Whites and sadly disappeared from our high streets.

Written by Lyn Tyler, based on research by Carole Griffiths, both of Lichfield Museum.

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 60 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Festivals Guide Lichfield

Gazette

PART TWO

Fake Festival 8 August

A

fter a successful sold out tour last year, with the added double whammy of a hugely popular three day festival, Fake Festivals is returning to Lichfield on Saturday 8th August at Beacon Park with a rocking line-up.

This year, Lichfield Fake Festival will play host to an amazing line-up of local support bands and headlining tribute bands. The Bon Jovi Experience, Kazabian and Space Cowboy (Jamiroquai) will be smashing up the main stage, bringing the festival spirit with their uncanny likeness and voices.

The Fake Festival stage will yet again play host to five local support bands who have been lucky enough to earn their spot at this year's event. The five chosen supports for this year are Britpop Reunion, Mr George’s Famous Last Words,Tom Woodman,The Four Kicks and Analogue Haze.

Britpop Reunion is the only UK 90’s Britpop specialist party band, solely performing great anthems by Blur, Oasis, Pulp and Supergrass to name a few. From Lichfield, they will be opening this year’s Fake Festival, so make sure you make it down early to catch them open the main stage.

Mr George’s Famous Last Words are the last in a dying breed of rock stars proving you can generate a buzz and create the wow factor live on stage. Their debut EP, ‘Young Man’ has received national radio airplay, and Kerrang Radio have described them as “bordering on brilliance.”

Tom Woodman will be returning to the Fake Festivals’ stage with his mix of original songs.

Warming you up for the main tributes is Analogue Haze. The four piece band will be getting you in the party spirit with their mix of 80’s covers, with everything from Spandau Ballet to New Order and everything inbetween.

As well as the famous Fake Festivals marquee hosting the main stage and all important bar, there will also be the usual outdoor entertainment and food stalls.

Tickets to Lichfield Fake Festival are already on sale at the early bird price until 15th July of: Adult £16.50, Young Person (10-17 years) £9.00, Family (2 adult 2 Young Persons) £42.00 Tickets can be purchased directly through the Fake Festivals website at www.fakefestivals.co.uk. Don’t forget to register for your free ticket to The Big Fake Festival in September after your purchase. For more information and ticket sales, please visit www.fakefestivals.co.uk

Festival Guide

The Edwardian Fete and Fair & Discovery Days and Trench Tours 9 Aug O

n Sunday 9 August, back by popular demand is the Staffordshire Regiment Museum’s Edwardian Fete and Fair. This wonderfully evocative event creates a snapshot of the life that our soldiers left behind in 1914, in the last golden summer of the Belle Epoch.

Down in the WW1 trench system the Museum’s education team will be giving trench tours, ably assisted by the highly regarded re-enactors the Birmingham Pals, the Naval Brigade and even ‘The Sniper’!

New this year, the museum will be welcoming the Edith Cavell Trust and their wonderful re-enactors. The Trust demonstrates what nursing and medicine was like at the front, with a field hospital and nurses in contemporary uniform.

On the home front, watch out for the Suffragettes and Charlie Chaplin, ask an Edwardian policeman the time, and sit and relax in the elegant Palm Court marquee tea tent, complete with newspapers from 1914 and pianist. There’ll be lots of tasty treats available on the day including a Hog Roast!

There’ll be vintage fairground rides, lots of fun craft activities and the Icknield Male Voice choir will be wowing the crowds.

With lots of stalls selling gifts, crafts, curios and all manner of vintage loveliness, this is a special event that commemorates and remembers the lives of those that lived through WW1.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum Edwardian Fete and Fair starts at 11am and ends at 6pm. Adults £6, children, senior citizens and concessions £4, family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £20.

Also on Monday 3rd, 17th and 31st August the Museum will be running their ever popular Discovery Days and Trench Tours that include uniform and weapons handling, lots of interactive activities and tours of the amazing WW1 Trench System. Tours run from 11am till 4pm. Prices are £5 for adults, £4 for children and concessions and £20 for a family ticket.Tickets include entry to the Museum’s fascinating collections.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at DMS Whittington, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY. For more information go to staffordshireregimentmuseum.com or call 01543 434394

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Festival Guide

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Lichfield Food Festival 29-30 August

he tasty end of summer treat is back and will take place in venues and streets across Lichfield City centre on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 August.

The popular free-entry Lichfield Food Festival will showcase top chefs from across the region, a huge array of food and drink, a bake off and more.

More than 100 choice food and drink stalls are involved in this prestigious event as part of Central England Cooperative’s Festival Market along key city centre streets and Three Spires Shopping Centre. The Festival Market will be taking place from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday.

Lichfield’s annual celebration of gastronomy has something to suit all tastes and budgets, including cookery demonstrations by top regional chefs and bakers live on Lichfield Garrick’s main stage. These will run on the hour from 11am to 3pm on Saturday and 12 noon to 3pm on Sunday. See the full line-up at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk/cookerydemonstrations/ On Satuday there will be a traditional street party in Three Spires’ arcade including live music, a Pimms stall, deck chairs and activities for children. Also on Saturday is a celebration of local ales and ciders at Lichfield Arts’ Best of Local Brewers event in the Guildroom of the Guildhall and around the city from 12 noon to 7pm.

On Saturday and Sunday the Bird Street Food Event is your chance to taste dishes and drinks from Lichfield’s best restaurants and bars, sold from the street.The event runs from 11am to 4pm.

Also running over both days of the festival are cookery and equipment demonstrations in The Kitchen Shop by QVC and Ideal World presenter, Mal Harradine.The demos will be taking place intermittently between 10am and 4pm and there will be exclusive discounts in store.

On Saturday, from 9am to 4pm, there will be food and drink stalls around Lichfield Cathedral, a pop up kitchen featuring cookery demonstrations and afternoon tea. Then on Sunday, from 12 noon to 3pm, head to the cathedral grounds with your food to enjoy a big lunch and live entertainment.

The ever popular Cakeydora’s Bake Off will be judged on Sunday from 12 noon to 1pm. Keen home bakers can enter now at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk/bake-off/ Don’t miss the Real Ale Trail across the city’s pubs. The trail will be available in the Lichfield Food Festival programme, and the Special Offers at local eating and drinking establishments.

Lichfield Food Festival is organised in partnership by Central England Co-operative, the Lichfield Garrick, Lichfield District Council, Chef Simon Smith, The Kitchen Shop, Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield Arts and Cakeydora. It is sponsored by Central England Co-operative, Taste of Staffordshire and Tippers.

To find out more about Lichfield Food Festival, including the line-up of Lichfield Garrick’s chef demonstrations, please visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk.

Follow them on Twitter @LichFoodFest.

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The Kitchen Shop

Lichfield Food Festival Venue

he Kitchen Shop have thrown themselves into action again for this year’s Lichfield Food Festival with FREE foodie demonstrations in-store.

Back by popular demand, on both days of the Food Festival, Malcolm Harradine, QVC & Ideal World TV Presenter, will be in-store, cooking up a storm with the latest kitchen equipment and tickling customer’s taste buds! Demonstrations will be held at Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August at 10am – 4pm. From fun kitchen gadgets to delicious Le Creuset recipes, there will be plenty to see. Also there’s a huge selection of fantastic festival deals over the weekend, so pop in and grab yourselves a bargain.

Lizzy Braine at The Kitchen Shop says, “Mal is very funny. He entertains while he cooks so our customers are in for a treat! He’s going in our window, where everyone can see him!”

Don’t forget to pop round the corner from the shop to a brand new part of the Lichfield Food Festival, “Bird Street Food”. From 11 until 4pm on both days, Lichfield’s popular restaurant quarter (Bird Street) will come alive with tasty street food to sample and great lunchtime deals. Make sure you pop along and try some tasters and grab your discount vouchers.

For more information go to http://lichfieldfood.co.uk/bird-street-food-event/

Festival Guide

Proms in the Park 5 September

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ichfield Proms is Lichfield District Council’s free annual outdoor concert for the whole family. The annual event is an opportunity to enjoy a late summer evening in the beautiful surroundings of Beacon Park, live classical music and fireworks.

This much loved free concert features a prominent symphony orchestra, local musicians and singers. The evening is brought to a close with fireworks to the traditional sounds of Land of Hope and Glory. This year’s main concert will feature music inspired by Britain’s wartime history, including fanfares, cavalry marches and music from Saving Private Ryan and War Horse.There will also be a Bond medley, Nessun Dorma as well as all the proms favourites, Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory.

For prime seating at tables right infront of the stage it’s £12.50 a seat. Tables are booked in fours with a minimum of four to a table. Please call 01543 308863 to book.

Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park can only take place through the kind support of our sponsors, and donations on the night are very much appreciated.

Children’s activities from 5.30pm, music from 6pm, main concert from 7.30pm Keep up to date on Lichfield Proms news at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

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Festival Guide

Huddlesford Heritage Gathering 19 - 20 September

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he Huddlesford Heritage Gathering is a biennial heritage festival, jointly organised by Lichfield Cruising Club and Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, and is a gathering of historic boats, floating traders, private boats and dozens of classic cars which has become increasingly popular with families.

This year’s event will be held on September 19 and 20 and Emma’s Crafty Kids will provide a range of activities, including a drop-in craft area where children can make everything from badges to masks, outdoor games and workshops.

All activities are supervised, with a workshop leader and four helpers on hand to help parents and carers make the most of the day.

The inclusion of Emma’s Crafty Kids on the Gathering’s bill has been made possible by a grant from Lichfield District Council’s Small Grants Fund, which encourages not-for-profit organisations to deliver a range of local community services.

For more information on Huddleford Historic Boats Gathering, visit Lichfield Cruising Club’s website at http://www.lichfieldcruisingclub.co.uk Lichfield and Huddleford Canals Restoration Trust’s website at http://www.lhcrt.org.uk.

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L2F - Lichfield Festival of Folk 16-18 October

he Lichfield Festival of Folk, otherwise known as L2F is an annual event from Lichfield Arts, held mainly in the historic Lichfield Guildhall. Its aim is to provide the opportunity to appreciate the very best in Folk Music in a friendly and welcoming environment. It is inclusive and inspirational, allowing people to participate in folk-related activities and to encourage local arts and heritage organisations to celebrate with the community at large the traditions of the British Isles.

The Exmouth Shanty Men – Friday 16 October with support from Dragonhead and Mitre’s Well.

Devon’s ‘original buoy band’ first burst on to the folk scene in 2007 and their flourishing reputation has been founded on the authenticity and integrity of their performance.

Merry Hell – Merry Hell Acoustic Saturday 17 October, with Mad Jocks and Englishmen, Kate and Andy Fincham,Tony Portlock and Becky, Lichfield Folk Collective Mad Jocks and Englishmen – Sensational songs, side splitting stories, incredible instruments, great gags – all going to give a belting performance!

Trad Arrr – also featuring Granny’s Attic and Emily Sanders. It’s 45 years since Liege & Lief almost single-

handedly created the genre folk-rock. Since then, that simple marriage of traditional music and electric instruments had been suborned and sidetracked, dissected and documented, Oystered, Albioned and Steeleyed.

Melrose Quartet – Sunday 18 October. A fantastic quartet playing traditional music of the very highest quality. They include, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan who are winners of the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Award for Best Duo (and previous winners of 2003 Best Duo and 2000 Horizon Award.) and Jess and Richard Arrowsmith who have established themselves as stalwarts of the traditional music scene. For lovers of traditional music this really is not to be missed.

Melrose Quartet

The Exmouth Shanty Men Page 66 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Blackbeard’s Tea Party – Voted best band at last year’s Cropredy Convention, and named THE band to see at Glastonbury by the Huffington Post, 2014 also saw Blackbeard’s Tea Party make a huge impact at festivals as diverse as Shrewsbury Folk Festival, Costa

Trad Arrr Del Folk in Spain, and the Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo. With this growing reputation, it’s hardly a surprise that they are one of the most indemand bands on the folk circuit.

Plus, don’t miss Granny’s Attic, Mitres Well, Dragonhead, Kate and Andy Fincham,Tom Perry and Clive Brookes, Tony Portlock and Becky, Wildfire Folk, Lichfield Folk Night Collective and others to come! LF2 also features, The Festival Quiz Night, The Lichfield Arts and Heritage Procession, Morris Dancing throughout the city centre, a real ale bar, an Outreach Project with a community youth group demonstrating traditional dance, instrument workshops, craft workshops and Cafe L2F – an opportunity to grab a cuppa and a cake and listen to up and coming performers for free!

Early Bird full festival ticket (until 1 Sept) is £49.

Full festival ticket (after 1 Sept) £55. Friday 16 £13.

Sat 17 or Sun 18 all day £25 (£15 afternoon performances ,16 yrs and under £5; £15 evening performances, 16yrs and under £5). For full information go to lichfieldarts.org.uk

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

Dining Out with Phil Preece

tables were at a premium.

This month, Phil looks at a different sort of night out – summer dining in Lichfield.

The Whittington Arms reopened recently after a lavish refit so what better way to start a new food column than reviewing a spanking new venue that looks set to become a top local dining destination.

A grand re-launch party gave guests a glimpse of its all-new sophisticated luxury at surprisingly reasonable prices, but I went back to see whether its first-night atmosphere had lasted into summer evenings. I chose a hot early Friday before the crowds arrived, many of whom chose to sit outdoors. The main spaces also filled up quickly with couples, informal groups of friends and whole families so that by the time I checked out at eight

Charmingly greeted, we were soon settled comfortably in one of the quieter, spacious and elegant dining areas overlooking the golf course which added that authentic country-club feel. A complementary amuse-bouche of parsnip crisps and tortillas got us in the mood for ordering while a fresh glass of iced juice and a tall Peroni cooled us down. The wide menu seemed almost too full of delicious choices but bravely we got down to work.

I started with mushrooms in a wine and black garlic veloute with poached egg plus a herby brioche (so good I drank the delicious sauce out of the pan ignoring all home-learned table-manners).

My companion declared her crispy deep-fried Somerset Brie with apricot chutney plus a tiny forest of leaves “delicious”.

She followed it with beer-battered line-caught cod with chunky chips, home-made pea puree and tartare sauce, the fish so large I ended up stealing half of it. My chicken, ham-hock, wild mushroom

and Madeira pie served with hispi cabbage and honey roasted carrot sounded good on paper but was a little light on content for anyone truly starving – hence the cod-snaffling, but I had asked to change the mashed potato to chunky chips, a request met with smiles, so no complaints.

Neither of us could resist the Eton Mess to finish, irresistible on a hot summer’s evening with fat, fresh strawberries, violet meringue and thick, thick cream.

Price range - about £30 a head a la carte, with drinks. I notice there’s a very reasonable twocourse lunch menu of selected dishes, a daily kid’s menu and a special Sunday menu too, which bodes well.

Would I go back? Definitely, and not only for the parsnip crisps.

Phil Preece

What’s On

If you have a community or fund raising 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.

Sat 18 July – Sun 6 Sep Record Breakers Trail 10.00am to 5.00pm at Beacon Park. Joint with Lichfield Library. Linked to the Record Breakers, Summer Reading Challenge 2015. Follow the trail, try some records and solve the anagram to be entered into the prize draw.

Go to the ranger station to buy your trail 50p per trail.

Sat 18 July Outdoor Cinema - Mamma Mia! (PG) Doors Open: 7.30pm; Film Starts: 9.30pm approx at National Memorial Arboretum.

Admission: Adults £10; NMA Friends £8; Children 12-15 years £8; Premier Tickets £22.50 (includes director's chair, drink and Luna Cinema goodie bag).

Lichfield Branch of Young Embroiderers 10.00am to 12.30pm at Curborough Community Centre. Enquiries to 01543 250531

Sun 19 & Mon 20 July Lichfield Arts and Craft Fair 10.30am to 4.00pm at Market Square. Independent traders display their creations and promote their business. There are usually over 30 exhibitors from all over the Midlands.

Sun 19 July Summer Darwin Walk 10am at Bunkers Hill Car Park. Enjoy a pleasant summer walk around Lichfield with members of the Darwin Walk Trust. Free. Donations welcome. For more information go to www.darwinwalk.org.uk

Discover 700 years of English History 10am at Middleton Hall.

Middleton Hall is a unique historic Grade II listed building spanning seven centuries of English domestic architecture. £4 adults, under 18's go free.

Friends of Middleton Hall Trust go free. Free parking

Wedding Fair 11.00am to 3.00pm at Cathedral Lodge Hotel. Free entry, parking, confetti goody bag containing a free Confetti magazine and make-up. Free Glass of Bubbly on arrival and free entry into our prize draw to win £100! Free Bottle of Champagne for the 50th Bride who registers for our event.

Pre-register by sending us an email to Jane sparklingdayevents@gmail.co m and receive EXTRA

makeup items in your goody bag. www.sparklingdayevents.com Tel Jane 07878565699

Family fun at Fradley Junction 11am to 2pm at Fradley Junction. Come and join us for one of our Family Fun Events. This time we are looking at wildlife in our craft activities and making dragonflies. You can take a walk around the Nature Reserve and see what you can find to make a natural art picture or try your hand at our Hook a Duck Activity. Meet us in the Welcome Station by the Canal and River Trust offices.

Free.

Pongo's Party!

11am and 1.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Featuring the voice of CBeebies' Justin

Fletcher (AKA Mr Tumble) as Pongo the Pig!

Mon 20 July – Fri 4 Sep Family Summer Holiday Activities At National Memorial Arboretum. Whatever your age or interests an unforgettable experience awaits you here this summer.

Go to www.thenma.org.uk for more information.

Mon 20 July Tales in the Courtyard Lichfield Storytellers 7.30pm to 10.00pm at The Duke of York, Lichfield. Tales from Belgium with Fred Versonnen, a storyteller from Flanders. Performing in a powerful and thoughtful way.

Fred has a special preference for the folktales told by his grandfathers, dark and jolly medieval histories. He is a Page 67

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

nominee for “Storyteller of the year 2015” in Belgium and the Netherlands. Please note that, due to local rules, this is an 18yrs + only event. £5 on the door.

Lichfield Branch of Embroiderers’ Guild 7.30pm in Lichfield Methodist Centre. Speaker will be Louise West on - Cotton to Concrete & Beyond, pushing the boundaries of lace making.

Visitors (£4) are welcome.

Enquiries to 01283 813320

Big Hoot At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. See Moor Hall’s Love Owl, part of the Big Hoot trail, Birmingham’s biggest art event ever!

Tue 21 July Art Workshops 6.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Small and friendly sessions led by awardwinning local artist Carole Collier, beginners very welcome. £10 including all materials and refreshments, booking essential – call 01543 264972.

Wed 22 July Beacon Park Golf Tournaments 9am to 6pm at Beacon Park.

Come and enter our golf competitions throughout the summer and win one of many prizes. Go to the ranger station to pay for a round of golf and it’s only an extra £1 to enter the competition. Winners will be notified after each competition day and prizes will be given for best rounds in the categories of men’s (18+), women’s (18+), and children (17-).

Green Gym 10am to 11am at Sainte Foy Recreation Area. Enjoy a 1 hour circuit session using fixed machines and additional fitness equipment run by a qualified instructor. Free for ages 11-25, £1 cost for ages over. Contact Karl Sproston to book a place and additional information on 01543 308846 or at Karl.sproston@lichfielddc. gov.uk.

Bug hunt 10am to 11am, 11.30 am to

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12.30pm or 1pm to 2pm at Stowe Pool. Children are invited to search for creepy crawlies. Booking is essential please phone 01543 308869.

Senior Citizens’ Summer Lunch 12.15pm at The George Hotel. Delicious three course lunch with a glass of Buck’s Fizz or orange juice on arrival.

Entertainment provided by Holly Hewitt who has the voice of a Hollywood starlet - she will entertain you with popular jazz and blues songs. £18 per person. To book please call 01543 414822.

Thu 23 July Lichfield Civic Society 7.45pm at St Mary’s in the Market Square. A talk by Michael Fisher entitled ‘Pugin: A passion for Gothic’. Nonmembers welcome (£3 at the door).

Forever In Blue Jeans 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Come and join one of the greatest party’s in town as Forever In Blue Jeans celebrates 20 happy and successful years on the road.

Fri 24 July The Bon Jovi Experience 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. The Bon Jovi Experience is an outstanding tribute to Bon Jovi. They are the only Bon Jovi tribute band in the world to have actually played and shared a stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself!

Comedy 42 - July 7.30pm at Lichield Garrick Theatre (Studio). Comedy 42 brings you the best comedians from across the country

Sat 25 July Community Drop In 11am to 12 noon at Beacon Park. Talk with members of the parks team about how local parks could be improved. We want to hear your thoughts, concerns and suggestions.

Wacky Sporting World Records 12 noon to 3pm at Beacon Park, Museum Gardens.

Linked to Lichfield Library and Record Breakers Summer Reading Challenge. Have a go at some wacky sporting world

records. Who can limbo the lowest, juggle with the most balls and hula hoop the longest? Free entry.

Museums at Night 7pm to 9.30pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. The museum is throwing the doors open after hours to explore local history. The interpreter’s stories have been written by David Titley a local writer and actor. David’s aim was to write about characters who are ‘names’ in Lichfield but who have no widely known history. £8 (includes a Cocktail) Call 01543 256611 for more information.

Rhythm Of The Dance 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. This incredible live show celebrates the rich history of Ireland and the art of Irish dance from the disciplined Celtic Step to the sensual, ancient Sean Nos dance style.

Sun 26 July Lichfield Advanced Motorists Open Meeting 10am at Fradley Village Hall.

Open meeting of Lichfield Advanced Motorists.

New members welcome for free introductory session and demo drive. Free introductory session.

Food & Craft Market 10am at Middleton Hall. An abundance of stalls showcasing the very best of local handcrafted items and locally produced food. You’ll find artisan crafted accessories and vintage items and delicious food to enjoy on site or take home. There is something for all the family. All proceeds go to support the restoration of the hall and grounds.

The Lichfield Twinning Association 2.30pm at the car park off Newton Hurst Lane, Abbots Bromley. Come and join a ramble round the walks at Blithfield Reservoir. Always glad to meet new people!

Bring snacks and drinks.

Cycle Rides For All 11am at Burntwood Library.

Chasewater Taster Cycle Ride on the last Sunday of every

month. This ride is 6 miles and is rated as a level 2 route.

Bicycles will receive a free safety check at the start of every ride. Bring a picnic lunch and some water; however a café stop is included on most rides. Cycle helmets are recommended and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. Under 16 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. For more information contact Debby at Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston on 01543 308846 at Lichfield District Council.

Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre 30th Anniversary Concert 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. A very special Concert to celebrate their 30th anniversary. Amateur Production. The evening will celebrate many songs from the West End & Broadway shows from its past, present and future! For one night only, so early booking is recommended.

Mon 27 July Thalgo Promotion Day At Moor Hall Hotel’s Spa. Book a Thalgo Age-defying facial for only £35 (normally £41) and buy the Hyaluronic gift set for only £10 (worth £71).

Tue 28 July Are you living with Arthritis?

If so, why not come along to the monthly meetings of the Lichfield Branch of Arthritis Care. We meet at St Mary's Centre on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7pm to 9pm, and offer support, signposting and social activities. Transport is provided for a small contribution. For further information please contact 01543 263347 or 255698.

Wed 29 July Beacon Park Golf Tournaments See Wed 22 July for details.

Green Gym See Wed 22 July for details.

Sat 1 Aug Plant Hunters’ Fair 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.

Guided Tours of Johnson’s Birthplace 2pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Join a lively and entertaining tour bringing the home of Lichfield’s famous son to life. £2.50, booking advised, call 01543 264972.

National Stitch Day 10am to 4pm in the Tesco Extra Community Room.

Please join members of Lichfield Embroiderers’ Guild and stitch a cup cake card to celebrate the anniversary of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

Free event.

Mon 3 Aug Discovery Day and WW1 Trench Tours 11am to 4pm (last tour 3pm) at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Each discovery day throughout the year has a different theme, uniform and weapon handling, lots of interactive activities and tours for all the family. Admission from £5.

Tue 4 Aug Neaten and Natter 1pm to 3pm at Beacon Park.

Volunteers are invited to help look after Beacon Park. This could include litter picking and weeding paths. Equipment provided. Call 01543 308869 to find out more.

Wed 5 Aug Wacky Wednesdays 11.30am to 1pm & 2pm to 3.30pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Themed summer craft workshops for children 5-12 years. A different theme each week. £2 per child – booking advised, call 01543 306260.

Beacon Park Golf Tournaments See Wed 22 July for details.

Green Gym See Wed 22 July for details.

Bug hunt and pond dipping 10am till 12 noon & 1pm to 3pm at Beacon Park. Children

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

are invited to search for creepy crawlies and pond life. Booking is essential please phone 01543 308869.

Birthplace Book Club 1pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Friendly and informal group reading along with Radio 4’s Book Club show, new members welcome. Free, donations welcome.

Jungle Book From 5.30pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. This is an open air production so please bring a folding seat or blanket. Hog roast, bar and gate opens at 5.30pm. Tickets are £14 per adult, £8 per child (under 16), family tickets are (2 adults and 2 children) £38, available from our events department – please call 0121 308 3751.

Thu 6 Aug Summer Fun at Sam’s House 10.30am to 1.00pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Dropin arts and crafts fun throughout the holiday with a different activity every week. £2 – just drop in!

Moth recording morning 8.30am to 9.30am at Beacon Park.

Moth Recording Morning Identify moths in the community Garden.

Free.

Fri 7 & Sat 8 Aug Big Second Hand Book Sale 10am to 2pm at Lichfield Methodist Centre. Free admission, in aid of church funds- thousands of books!

Book donations welcome please contact Don Male 252653

Sat 8 Aug – Thu 10 Sep A City as Sculpture by Peter Walker FRSA MRBS At Lichfield Cathedral. A unique chance to see the acclaimed artist’s work adorning the Cathedral and its grounds. Free entry.

Sat 8 Aug Outdoor Cinema On Saturday 8th August a fantastic outdoor cinema will be coming to Tamworth Castle Grounds, Tamworth, B79 7NA. Films showing are Hairspray (PG) at 9.15pm and A Nightmare on Elm Street (18) at midnight! Tickets are £10 or £8 if booked in advance (advance booking ends 31/07/15. No door sales for this event). To book and for more information call 01827 709618 or go to www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk

Sun 9 Aug WWI Day and Edwardian Fete and Fair 11am to 6pm at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Step back in time to the Belle Epoch of the early 1900s. Wander around the period fairground, listen to the choir and browse around the many stalls.

Call 01543 434394 or go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum. com for more information Joe Pasquale 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. With special guest: Paul Burling. Yes, Joe's back! This time he's leaner, meaner, he's a vacuum cleaner! Last year Joe and his twin brother Raynard opened a chip shop with the Dalai Lama in Skegness, called Batter Me, I'm Yours!

Mon 10 Aug Beacon Street Stories 7.30pm at Beacon Park next to the statue of Beacon Streets most famous resident: Erasmus Darwin (outside the Registry Office). Local historian, John Gallagher, will be taking to us on a guided tour of Beacon Street, telling the stories of its buildings and their former inhabitants, ending at the George and Dragon for a drink. No charge, but voluntary donations appreciated.

Wed 12 Aug Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House. See Wed 5 Aug for details.

Beacon Park Golf Tournaments See Wed 22 July for details Green Gym See Wed 22 July for details.

Beacon Park Fun Day 11am to 3pm at Beacon Park.

Outdoor fun and games for all.

Bring your teddy and join in the Teddy Games! Free.

Thu 13 Aug Summer Fun at Sam’s House See Thu 6 Aug for details.

Sat 15 Aug Woodlands and Washlands Walk 11.00am at Washlands Car Park.

Lichfield Wildlife Groups invites you to a FREE 2 hour walk led by Lawrence Oates. He will be taking us in the Washlands and Woodlands area of Burton on Trent and telling us about the work that has been done to improve Nature Conservation close to the River

Move over Grande Canal The best Pizzas are not in Italy… they’re in the ‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley Junction!

The Swan or ‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley Junction has a huge reputation for good food, but now it is “move over Venetian Grande Canal” and “enter the Coventry & Trent & Mersey Canal”, because this famous old pub has a treat in store.

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.

The chef uses his skills to produce 9 and 12 inch pizzas throughout lunch and evening (also take away available). Great on a summer’s evening 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.

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.

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

FIND US IN THE CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE

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

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Sizzling Steaks at Netherstowe House

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ocated in the cool converted cellars of the Grade II listed Netherstowe House Hotel and Restaurant in Lichfield you will discover the sizzling Steakhouse Brasserie, recently voted ‘Brasserie of the Year’ at the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards. Vaulted ceilings, wood-panelled walls, authentic furniture and a collection of historic memorabilia make this intimate dining den the most original place to eat in Staffordshire. Curiously unforgettable, The Steakhouse Brasserie is perfect for relaxed celebrations, remarkable dining or just spending quality time with loved ones and friends this summer.

At Netherstowe House they care passionately about working with local suppliers, sourcing as much local produce as possible from neighbouring farms and regional suppliers. The heady mix of pleasures continues through to their ever-popular steakhouse menu, which includes a selection of 28 day aged steaks, chunky homemade chips and an impressive medley of cheeses. A variety of sharing platters, hearty meat feasts, a vegetarian dish of the day, catch of the day and indulgent desserts are also available. Their cellar is impressively stocked with over 100 wines from 13 countries around the world and each tipple has been lovingly selected, prioritising taste and value over vintage.

This award winning steakhouse in Lichfield is open for lunch every-day from 12 midday to 2:30pm and serves dinner Monday to Saturday between 6:00pm and 9:00pm. For more information about Netherstowe House visit: www.netherstowehouse.com

Lichfield Gazette Steakhouse Reader Offer

At Netherstowe House they are all about affordable luxury and believe that every guest experience should be a great one, that's why they’ve teamed up with the Lichfield Gazette to offer our readers a sizzling steakhouse offer. Simply call Netherstowe House on 01543 254 270 and quote “Lichfield Gazette Steakhouse Offer” to receive £5 off per person when booking lunch on any day up to and including Monday 31st August 2015.

Netherstowe House is extremely popular and reservations are allocated on a first come first serve basis so early booking is recommended.

Trent. For further information please telephone Ray Allen 01543 251654.

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Aug Cannock Chase Military History Weekend 10am to 4pm at Cannock Chase Visitor Centre. This popular, free event explores the area’s military connections.

Re-enactment groups, experts and veterans, are all on hand to provide information and put on displays, from Anglo-Saxon to current armed forces. Plenty to experience and lots of hands on activities, including air rockets, pike drill and great war recruiting. Picnic sites, café and kids play area, all on site.

Raising funds for help for heroes.

Lichfield Fake Festival 12.30pm to 11pm at Beacon Park. Enjoy performances from Bon Jovi, Kasabian and Jamiroquai tributes. Expect a true festival atmosphere right on your doorstep and enjoy some of the finest local quality food and entertainment. Come down and support the local bands before the three tribute bands take to the stage!

Tickets available online and from Lichfield Tourist Information on 01543 256611

Sun 16 – Mon 17 Aug Lichfield Arts and Craft Fair At Market Square. See Sun 19 & Mon 20 July for details.

Mon 17 Aug Discovery Day and WW1 Trench Tours At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. See Mon 3 Aug for details.

Tue 18 Aug Art Workshops At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Tue 21 July for details.

Wed 19 Aug Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 5 Aug for details.

Beacon Park Golf Tournaments See Wed 22 July for details.

Green Gym See Wed 22 July for details.

Thu 20 Aug Page 70 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Summer Fun at Sam’s House See Thu 6 Aug for details.

Sat 22 Aug Fairy Walk 11am to 12 noon & 1pm to 2pm at Beacon Park. Hear the story of the Beacon Park fairies, then wonder through the park –will you find the fairies? £1 per child. Lasts up to 1 hour. No need to book – just turn up. Fancy dress encouraged. Under 5's 11am 12pm and over 5's 1pm - 2pm

Middleton Hall Wedding Open Days 1pm to 4pm at Middleton Hall.

Opportunity to view the stunning wedding venue, dressed for both civil ceremony and wedding breakfast. Once host to Queen Elizabeth I, the Hall and grounds can be yours exclusively for your special day.

Sun 23 Aug Discover 700 years of English History At Middleton Hall. See Sun 19 July for details.

Cycle Rides For All 10am at Freedom Cycles.

NMA Cycle Ride. This ride is 15 miles and is rated as a level 3 route. Bicycles will receive a free safety check at the start of every ride. Bring a picnic lunch and some water; however a café stop is included on most rides. Cycle helmets are recommended and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. Under 16 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. For more information contact Debby at Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston on 01543 308846 at LDC.

Family Treasure Hunt 2pm to 4pm at Martin Heath Hall, Christchurch Lane. The majority of our Treasure trail is in Beacon Park, away from roads and traffic. £2 entry fee per team. Just turn up and enjoy! Brought to you by LARA, Leomansley Area Residents' Association

Tue 25 Aug Animal Alphabet 3pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre (Studio). Animal Alphabet, which began life as a

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD BBC series of 6 programmes is now set for the theatre stage, bringing together its writer and creator, BAFTA Nominated Richard Digance, with actress, Nicky Kemp, from the animated TV series The Tidings.

Wed 26 Aug Wacky Wednesdays See Wed 5 Aug for details.

Beacon Park Golf Tournament's See Wed 22 July for details.

Green Gym See Wed 22 July for details.

Bug hunt and pond dipping See Wed 5 Aug for details.

Thu 27 Aug Summer Fun at Sam’s House See Thu 6 Aug for details.

Sat 29 & Sun 30 Aug Lichfield Food Festival Around and about Lichfield City. An annual celebration of all things gastronomic that

takes place across Lichfield City. The end of summer weekend event offers festivalgoers free cookery demonstrations by top regional chefs, a choice range of food stalls, a celebration of local brews, food and drink trails across the city’s restaurants and bars, a baking competition and much more!

Go to www.lichfieldfood.co.uk for more information.

Sat 29 Aug Community Drop In At Beacon Park. See sat 25 July for details.

Sun 30 Aug Food & Craft Market At Middleton Hall. See Sun 26 July for details.

Mon 31 Aug Traditional Family Fun Day 11am to 4pm at Middleton Hall. A day filled with traditional family games and children’s activities, fun for all the family. £4 adults, children under 18 years free entry

Discovery Day and WW1 Trench Tours At Staffordshire Regiment Museum. See Mon 3 Aug for details.

Venue Contact Details Beacon Park - Swan Rd, Lichfield WS13 6QZ Bunkers Hill Car Park – Lower Sandford St, Lichfield WS13 6RA Burntwood Library - Bridge Cross Rd, Sankeys Corner, Burntwood WS7 2BX Cannock Chase Visitors Centre - Marquis Drive, Hednesford WS12 4PW Cathedral Lodge Hotel - 62 Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AR Curborough Community Centre - Reynolds Close, Lichfield WS13 7NA Duke of York - 23 Greenhill, Lichfield WS13 6DY Erasmus Darwin House – Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260

Fradley Junction – Alrewas, The Welcome Station by the Canal and River Trust offices DE13 7DN Fradley Village Hall - Hay End Lane, Lichfield WS13 8NL Freedom Cycles – Lichfield Bus Station, Birmingham Rd, Lichfield WS13 6HU The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR Tel: 01543 414822 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 Methodist Centre Backcester Lane, Lichfield WS13 6 JH. Lichfield Methodist Church Tamworth St, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Martin Heath Hall Christchurch Lane, Lichfield WS13 8AY 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, Burtonon-Trent DE13 7AR St Mary’s in the Market Square - Market Square, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Tel: 01543 256611 Saint Foy Recreation Area Sainte Foy Avenue, Lichfield WS13 6RD Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum - Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Tel: 01543 264972 Staffordshire Regiment Museum - Defence Medical Services, Lichfield WS14 9PY Tamworth Castle Grounds, Tamworth, B79 7NA. Tel: 01827 709618 Tesco Extra Community Room - Church St, Lichfield WS13 6DZ

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Irish music concert raises money in memory of Mike

he friends and family of Burntwood musician Mike Stanley have raised an incredible £10,000 for St Giles Hospice, which cared for him in his final days. Mike, who was an established singer-songwriter, received palliative care at Compassus, the inpatient unit at St Giles Hospice in Whittington, but sadly died from bowel cancer in June 2013 at the age of 48.

Yvonne Stanley, Mike’s widow, and their three children aged 6, 11 and 13, still continue to receive support from the hospice. Since his passing, Mike’s family and friends have joined together to raise money for the leading local charity – with an Irish music concert held earlier this year raising £6,000 alone. The sold-out event took place at Garrick Theatre in Lichfield, with almost 600 people attending. Mike’s family and friends have now donated a total of over £10,000 to St Giles, to help support the hospice’s high-quality care for local people living with cancer and other serious illnesses.

To find out more about fundraising for St Giles Hospice, call 01543 432538 or visit the charity’s website at www.stgileshospice.com/fundraising.

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