Lichfield Gazette June 2014

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

June 2014 ISSUE 61

See inside for Lichfield Festivals Guide, page 21

Vintage and Country Festival

see page 46

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

COLLIS

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Page 3

CONTENTS

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

12 Bower Power Lichfield Bower 2014

21 Lichfield Festivals Guide Your guide to Festivals Summer 2014 68 Father’s Day Gift Guide Gifts to make any Dad smile 74 Gazette Woman

77 Win a copy of A Part of Me New novel by Anouska Knight

CONTRIBUTORS • Caz Jones

• Michael Fabricant • Dave Gallagher

• Joss Musgrove Knibb • Robert Yardley

12

06 68 75

Contact the Gazette see page 78 Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Letter Editor A

from the

Why me?

A funny thing happened to me on the way to the Guildhall. It was a quiet and sunny day and I was about to report on the annual St George’s Day Court.

If you don’t know the tradition, The Court Baron and View of Frankpledge, commonly known as St George's Court, is an ancient manorial court. A charter of Edward VI transferred manorial rights of the Barony of Lichfield in 1548 to the Bailiffs, Burgesses and Commonalty of the City, which in today's terms are the Mayor, Councillors and citizens. The Court is now held in a lighthearted manner but still appoints the ancient officers of the Manor: two High Constables, seven Dozeners (or pettyconstables), two Pinners and two Ale Tasters.

The High Constables report on their work over the past year, and a jury is empanelled which imposes fines on those who have rejected the summons to attend, after first hearing their amusing excuses.

As Editor for the Gazette, I was invited to attend, nothing sinister in that. But when I walked out of court I was carrying the office of High Constable of the City of Lichfield –

how did that happen?

A jury was sworn in and nominations were taken from the floor and my name was mentioned by a voice at the back of the room as an additional nomination (gulp).

Before you know it, I was it. The jury picked me - stunned silence!

Now, anyone who knows me is aware of my reluctance to put my head above the parapet.

The nearest I have ever come to notoriety is Milk Monitor in Mrs Jenkins’ class in junior school, and only because Stephen Boden was off sick that week. I only became Editor because at the time I was the only one in the office with his own dictionary. At 5ft 4in I’m not even tall enough for any high office.

I never bother the Police and pay my Council Tax on time. Either way, being chosen is better than winning it I suppose. I once won the lottery…to share £49 in an office syndicate of 50 people.

What I can say in all seriousness is that it is an honour to be chosen by my peers to represent Lichfield in this way, but why-ohwhy couldn’t they have chosen me as Ale Taster?

Yours truly Paul Oakley (Editor)

JUNE 2014 Issue 61 ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE

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

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

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

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.

Page 5

Mayor switches on new lighting showroom in Lichfield

A new lighting showroom in Lichfield has been officially unveiled by the City’s Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor Bob Awty and his wife Eileen.

Bradshaws Discount Lighting on Britannia Enterprise Park has doubled in size to create one of the largest lighting showrooms in Lichfield and have more products on show for customers.

3 generations of the Bradshaw family with the The business is run by the Bradshaw family, who have been Mayor & Mayoress at the official unveiling of the new showroom in business in Lichfield since 1947, selling high quality products with excellent customer service to businesses and the general public.

Over £10,000 has been invested in the new development, to help showcase the wide variety of different indoor and outdoor lights available at trade prices, from wall, table, floor and ceiling lighting solutions to crystal chandeliers.

The Mayor of Lichfield cut the ribbon to officially open the new showroom on Saturday.

Mayor, Councillor Bob Awty says: “My wife and I were delighted to be invited to open the new showroom, as Bradshaws has been a part of our City life for many years. My father got our first ever television set from Bradshaws in time for us to watch the Coronation, and my wife also remembers buying from the store when she was younger. The new showroom looks amazing, and it’s fantastic to see how the family business keeps growing and changing.”

Director, Lee Bradshaw says: “We’ve been delighted with the response to the new showroom. This is a new and exciting stage in Bradshaws history. We’ve been retailing electrical goods in Lichfield for over 65 years and now is the right time for us to invest in the business and expand.”

For more information on Bradshaws Discount Lighting, visit www.discountlights.co.uk or call 01543 263923.

WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT!

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

These coveted awards and accolades are testament to the dedication of their team who are incredibly passionate about delighting guests.

Express Lunch Menu: 2 Courses ~ £14.95; 3 Courses ~ £19.95 12 midday to 2:30pm (Mon - Fri), 1:00pm to 2:30pm (Sat) Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we need your help to find him. He Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than Fri 27 June 2014 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 A Steward of Birchwood Rd, Lichfield who spotted Minster the Cat on page 22 of the May issue

Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

25% OFF ALL DENTURES

A naturally great smile

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ou may already have met someone who has Smile Centre dentures, but unless they tell you you’ll never know. This is because of the incredible attention to detail that goes into the creation of each customer’s denture, be it a partial or full denture. One of the aspects that Matt Burnell - BSc Hons Dip CDT RCS (Eng) Clinical Dental Technician at The Smile Centre pays great attention to is the shade of the teeth.

me that the finish would be entirely to my liking. I now have a nice smile and a lot more confidence thanks to you.”

“I had a bad experience with other dentures. Being fairly young I was embarrassed but not able to wear what I had spent a lot of money on as it was no good. You have given me my We are all extraordinarily good at noticing something ‘not quite right’ about the appearance of confidence back. Well done Matt and all your team.” another person when meeting them face to face. Ever spotted a woman in the wrong shade of Come directly to a Clinical Dental Technician foundation? Or a man with hair dyed too dark a shade? The ability to read these inconsistencies is subconscious but ‘fakery’ can be immediately obvious. This is because our skin tone, eye colour, tooth shade and hair colour are always in the same palette of warm or cool tones and any deviation The Smile Centre is the only Clinical Dental from this appears ‘wrong’. Smile Centre customers have clean, white smiles, but fascinatingly Matt Technician’s Practice in Lichfield. Open creates teeth that include tiny gradients of shade that underlie the smile and mean that the eye reads them as real. Even if the client has no remaining teeth, Matt’s years of experience mean that he can Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Out of hours appointments by arrangement. still create a great smile that looks totally natural.

Length and shape of the tooth is also very important when designing a denture. Interestingly, the shape of your teeth is usually reflected in your face shape. If you have a long face your teeth will be longer; if a round face your teeth will also be more rounded. At The Smile Centre dentures are crafted using the ‘lost wax’ method, a technique usually employed by the finest sculptors. In this method each tooth is sculpted in wax and set individually. This is then used to create a further final mould that ensures fine detail in the finished denture.

One of the issues that Matt regularly corrects is over-closure of the jaw due to a poorly fitting or worn denture. Naturally, teeth are the perfect height to ensure that your jaw closes properly. Ideally, the height of the face between the base of the nose and the base of the chin should be the same as that from the corner of the mouth to the corner of the eye. Our jaws are hinged higher than our teeth, if a denture is not ‘high’ enough the lower jaw closes to far, causing pain, difficulty in speaking and a poor ‘bite’. It also leads to sagging skin and sore patches in creases at the sides of the mouth where saliva has gathered. One of the most distressing aspects of over-closure is the illusion of a ‘witchy’ profile as the chin is positioned too close to the nose. This is not a side effect of age, but simply of old, poorly fitting or worn dentures.

• REPAIRS • DENTURES • FINANCE • RELINES • DENTURE STABILISATION AVAILABLE

If dentures are too high, it becomes very difficult to pronounce words that involve the lips coming together before the teeth and the denture will rattle as the wearer is speaking. Eating also becomes much harder as the jaw cannot open wide enough to properly chew.

There really is no need to struggle with a poorly fitting denture any more. Dentures start from £550 and can last for up to 15 years. Matt and the team at The Smile Centre combine extraordinary professionalism and artistry with kindness, sensitivity and care. They listen to their customers, never try to rush a decision and make sure that you are happy every step of the way.

Smile Centre Customer Testimonials.

“I would like to thank you for the care and time you took in making my new dentures. You gave me a lot of confidence, you took time to explain how things would progress. In all of my visits to see you, not once did I feel I could not ask questions, you made me feel relaxed and took the time to reassure

LGZ

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LGZ

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HRH The Duchess of Cornwall celebrates new home of Defence Medical Services

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he new home of Defence medical training, Defence Medical Services (Whittington), was formally dedicated on May 8th by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall at a Families Day attended by personnel, their families, and representatives from the local community.

Celebrating the completion of a major build project and the integration of the site into the local community, The Duchess of Cornwall dedicated Defence Medical Services in a service that included prayers, a blessing and music by the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals. After a short speech, Her Royal Highness unveiled a commemorative plaque and in true Navy tradition cut a celebratory cake with Pte Ryan Benson, the youngest Service person serving at DMS(W).

Her Royal Highness was introduced to individuals involved in the military medical and community displays and toured the new Defence College of Health Education and Training (DCHET) with Surgeon Captain Stuart Millar, Commander of DMS(W) who said: “The co-location of DCHET with the Headquarters of the Surgeon General has brought military medical training to the heart of the Defence Medical Services.

“It is a privilege to command DMS(W) and my staff and I are honoured by the welcome the local community has provided.”

The day celebrated the integration of DMS(W) site with the local community. A military presence has been on the DMS(W) site since the late 19th Century and good relationships have prevailed.

Councillor David S Smith, Chairman of Lichfield District Council said: “It was a pleasure to meet and welcome everyone at the Families Day. It offered the perfect opportunity for personnel and their families to find out more about our beautiful district, heritage and many attractions, and we hope they will be very happy in their new home.”

The decision to create a unified headquarters for the DMS in the Midlands was made in July 2006, with building work commencing early in 2008. The project has been delivered by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) property and services provider based in Sutton Coldfield who, with its industry partners, worked with Headquarters Surgeon General and Joint Medical Command to transform the Lichfield establishment.

Air Vice-Marshal Elaine West, Director Programme and Project Delivery at DIO, said: “DIO’s priority is to support our Armed Forces by providing the facilities and services they need to live, work and train. I am delighted that DIO has delivered top-quality facilities at Whittington which will serve the needs of Defence Medical Services for many years to come.”

The Midlands Medical Accommodation (MMA) Project transformed the former Whittington Barracks into DMS(W) confirmed the Midlands as a centre of excellence for military medicine. The arrival of DCHET, an organisation that delivers medical training to 7,000 trainees and students each year, from Keogh Barracks in Aldershot at the beginning of March marked the end of the MMA Project.

Families Day celebrated the dedication of DMS(W) to the future of the organisation, the integration of the DMS into the local community, and the end of the MMA building project. In addition to viewing community stalls and displays, individuals attending the event were able to try their luck in the raffle, with all proceeds donated to the Soldier’s, Sailor’s and Airmen’s Families Association and St. Giles Hospice.

Photos by Robert Yardley

Page 10 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

A

Mums run for life

lmost 60 mums and children connected to Christchurch School are running to raise money for Cancer Research UK in the Race for Life at Sutton Park on Sunday 8th June (11am). The amazing turnout is due to many wanting to do something to support a friend.

Jaye Camacho (age13) is a former pupil at Christchurch Primary School who has been diagnosed with having Leukemia. His younger twin sisters are still pupils at the school (Jaye now goes to The Friary).

The event has been organised by Jo McPherson, a close friend of Jessica Bourne and her partner Richard Camacho (parents to Jaye and the girls), has done an amazing job and set up the Just Giving webpage and nagged everyone into training! Christchurch Mummys have currently raised over £2600 so far.

Le Reve Cocktail Bar in Lichfield have offered every Mum that runs a glass of champagne if they can raise a total of £3000 or more, so in the last two weeks the challenge is on! The owners of Le Reve are holding a celebration party on Sunday afternoon and organisers are very grateful for their support.

Stephen Sutton - Giant Thumbs Up in festival in Burntwood in his honour T

hanks to Amanda Mayling, a fantastic mini music festival is set to take place in Burntwood on Saturday 14 June in memory of Stephen Sutton who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday 14 May. Organisers of Thumbs Up for Stephen Sutton are encouraging people to come along to Burntwood Rugby Club and enjoy themselves while raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

A great line-up of acts, including U2UK, Bon Jovi Experience, O.T.C, Souled Out, The Pelatons, The Assist, Liam Parkinson, The Fazys and Nick Aslam, has been scheduled to play at the event which will run from noon until midnight.

Burntwood woman Amanda Mayling was inspired to organise the event after following Stephen’s story with her children and said, "When he was in hospital the first time and he thought his time was up I decided to do something."

Lichfield Discovered

She started by encouraging local people to tie a yellow ribbon in prominent places and very soon the idea took off with ribbons appearing all over the Burntwood area, especially at school gates.

The mark of respect and support for Stephen’s legacy to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust has spread to Lichfield and was most noticeable during the Bower Parade.

Amanda decided to organise an event but initially struggled to secure a venue until Burntwood Rugby Club (The Sportsway, Burntwood WS7 3PH), the site of the Chase Wakes, stepped in.

The venue, which can hold 5,000 people, has already received strong support. Equipment has been given free of charge meaning that all money raised will be able to go to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

There are many people to thank including Crown Cutting for providing £500 in sponsorship which has paid for the wristbands, Burntwood Road Sweepers for the portable toilets, Aggreko for generators, Gold Standard for security, Colour Graphics, Travis Perkins for fencing and HSS for path lights. Also Ian Newey for

Looking forward to Thumbs Up for the Stephen Sutton Mini Festival are (from left) Jo Jarvis, Amanda Mayling and Kate Hadley. Image courtesy of Lichfield Mercury.

supplying food.

Amanda said organising the event had been a team effort and she would also like to thank Joanne Jarvis, Kate Hadley and everyone who has contributed.

"This event is for an amazing guy and people are showing a lot of love," she said.

Wristbands are on sale £8 adult, £4 under 18s and £20 for a family of four. They are available from Burntwood RUFC, Addiction on Morley Road, Belle Fleur Florist on Swan Island, The chip shop next door to the florist and Studio 42.

Or from Amanda on 07813 324870, Jo on 07897 217914 or Kate on 07929 764663.

At the time of going to print Stephen’s Story has raised nearly four million pounds.

Invites you to Walk The Line of Hanch Tunnel

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n June 29th local history group Lichfield Discovered is hosting a walk along the route of Lichfield’s only authenticated Victorian tunnel, which was constructed between 1856 and 1866 to convey drinking water to Sandfields pumping station.

Come along and discover the location of the remaining shafts which were sunk to enable construction of the tunnel. The walk will include a commentary with references to contemporary documents and photographs taken during recent surveys of the tunnel.

Some minor detours from the tunnel route will be taken to sites which were relevant to Lichfield’s original water supply.

The walk will commence at the Grange Lane/Eastern Avenue crossroads (city side) at 11am and will terminate at the historic Sandfields Pumping Station, Chesterfield Road.

The walk will take approximately 2 hours over terrain that is mainly paved surfaces and mown grass. For more information visit the Lichfield Discovered facebook page.

Mummies Market

A group of five Mums have got together to organise a Mummies Market taking place at Lichfield Guildhall on 29th June.

At the event local Mums who own their own businesses will be offering for sale lots of interesting products including the ‘Broody Maternity Wear’ range of locally designed maternity dresses, Powder Pink Accessories and children’s clothing plus a Papercut Artist, Face Painter, personalised clothing and candles etc.

Page 11

Bower Power

May 26th 2014

The Lichfield Greenhill Bower proved to be one of the most successful on record with an estimated crowd of over 40,000 people flocking to the City for this ancient spectacle.

Attractions included a fantastic procession of floats, street stalls and entertainment and a great selection of stalls, performers and activities in Beacon Park.

Despite gloomy weather warnings, only a light sprinkling of rain fell on the day and didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of this good natured and happy event.

On the day our new Lichfield Bower Queen, Bethany Daire (16) was crowned by the Mayor of Lichfield.

This year’s procession was one of the longest for many years with over 70 units taking part. Well done to the Bower Committee and the many volunteers who make this amazing day happen each year.

The Festival Girls (Lichfield FC Float) Photo by Carl Knibb

Casey Gibbs as Mary (Lichfield FC Float) Photo by Carl Knibb

Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Mayor Cllr Norma Bacon crowns Lichfield Mercury Bower Queen 16-yearold Bethany Daire. Photo by Robert Yardley.

Chief Pirate! (Burntwood Sub-Aqua Float) Photo by Carl Knibb

Pirates (Burntwood Sub-Aqua Float) Photo by Carl Knibb

A 'Wicked Witch' (Franciscan View Float) Photo by Carl Knibb

Page 13

Protect Your Children’s Futures When a child is born many parents like to ask family members or close friends to become God-parents, but the role and duties of a Godparent are frequently confused with those of Guardians. Here Helen Bradin, Partner at solicitors Bradin Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP, touches on some of the key differences and highlights points to consider when choosing the best people to fulfil two very different roles:

Q: Do our son’s God-parents have a legal responsibility towards him in the event of our deaths?

Helen Bradin, Partner Bradin Helen: The first thing to be aware of is that a Trubshaw & Kirwan LLP based on God-parent is not a legal appointment, so Beacon Street, Lichfield. should anything happen to you both before your son reaches the age of 18 his Godparents do not automatically become responsible for him. The tradition of selecting a God-parent was to ensure a child’s religious education although in the present day it tends to mean that the family members or friends fulfilling the role will take an interest in the child’s development and overall wellbeing.

Q: Is a God-parent the same as a Guardian?

Helen: A person can be both a God-parent and a Guardian provided that the parents have appointed them as a legal Guardian in the event of both their deaths.

Q: Why should we appoint Guardians for our young family?

Helen: Guardians are usually appointed in conjunction with making a Will. However, many people with children under the age of 18 perceive that they are too young to need a Will but do not realise that if they both die, their children become ‘Wards of the State’ and the Courts will determine where the children will live. This means that even if your children have God-parents they have no legal rights. I have seen too many families fighting over the Guardianship of minors – often there are two sets of grandparents and siblings on both sides of the family who consider themselves best placed to look after the children. It is always best to formally make your wishes clear in your Will as the Courts will honour the appointment of a Guardian over the objections of family members, even if the Guardian is not related by blood, unless family members can prove it is not in the best interests of the child.

Q: What is a Guardian’s role?

Helen: A legal Guardian assumes all legal rights and obligations for a child if there is no surviving parent with parental responsibility. The Guardian is responsible for looking after a child in the same way that its parents would – for example ensuring that it is fed, clothed, goes to school, taught the difference between right and wrong – as well as making decisions that directly affect the child such as how it is schooled. When considering who to appoint it is important to assess whether your Guardian(s) can offer a stable family environment; how you rate their values and parenting skills; whether they are willing to take on long term responsibility for caring for your children and the quality of the relationship with your children.

Q: How many Guardians should we appoint?

Helen: Typically people choose to appoint two Guardians – usually a couple – although you may appoint just one.

Q: My partner passed away suddenly leaving two young children. They have no contact with their natural father so can I apply to become their Guardian?

Helen: If you seek to become a legal Guardian you must first be assessed by Social Services who submit their findings to the Family Proceedings Court. The Family Proceedings Court deals with the welfare of children so a person becoming a legal Guardian will be asked to appear to clarify how they will uphold and execute the parental responsibilities initially charged to a parent. Both bodies need to be certain that you, as the proposed Guardian, are able to take on the responsibilities involved and that the children are also happy with you as their Guardian.

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

Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Chloe Whitelaw Winner of Lichfield’s Got Talent 2014.

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By Joss Musgrove Knibb

n May I interviewed Chloe Whitelaw, winner of Lichfield’s got Talent 2014. Here, this super-talented 15 year old who lives with her family in Lichfield tells the Gazette about her plans for the future.

JMK When did you first know that you could sing, that your voice was maybe something different?

CW Probably at about ten or eleven when I went on holiday to France and tried my first karaoke.

Afterwards I got a couple of compliments saying I had a nice voice and I just sort of carried it on from there.

I sang ‘Warwick Avenue’ by Duffy, and then I sang that again at my Britain’s Got Talent audition. That was when I was 10, so I was a bit too young really.

JMK What kind of artists’ music do you like singing?

CW It’s a range really, I like Adele but it’s a mix.

I like new songs but also a lot of old songs such as ‘Killing Me Softly’ by Roberta Flack so it varies from different genres. I love 1960s soul singers, they give me more of a range than modern songs that are very ‘basey’.

JMK What competitions had you taken part in before Lichfield’s Got Talent?

CW It was just Britain’s Got Talent and Lichfield’s Got Talent but I’ve done some concerts. I did a Help for Heroes Fundraising Concert in Lichfield but I just sang one song there. I’ve done quite a lot at school and I was in the Cathedral Choir for a little bit.

JMK What made you apply for Lichfield’s Got Talent?

CW I’ve lived in Lichfield all my life and I just

S

thought that it might be a good chance for me to be recognised by some people if I wanted to do something with my Chloe Whitelaw voice, so I decided to do the first audition and it went really well. Lots of my family and friends were there to support me and it just went on from there. I sang ‘One and Only’ by Adele.

JMK Was it nerve-wracking?

CW It wasn’t because I don’t get nervous before I go on. The only bit I was nervous about was listening to the comments afterwards, just in case it was ‘Sorry, you’re not good enough.’

JMK During the final at the Garrick, how was it performing in front of such a big audience?

CW I wasn’t nervous really about singing, but I was about walking in my shoes because I’d bought really high heels and I couldn’t walk in them!

JMK When you sing, how does it make you feel?

CW If I was ever upset I’d just sing and it goes away. I’m in my own bubble. If I want to sing I will, wherever it is. I walk and sing, I do everything and sing.

It releases a lot of stress.

JMK Do you want a career as a singer?

CW No. I want to be an Occupational Therapist Support Worker. I’ve been volunteering with disabled children for four years since I was 11 at a

A free new start for Spring!

pring is with us, and there’s never been a better time for us to do a bit of a personal spring clean and take the chance to look at our diet, exercise and wellbeing. Eat Well Staffordshire has a Spring campaign to encourage older people to Eat better...and Feel better!

Eating well is one of key secrets to enjoying a better quality of life, helping to ward off infection and injury, avoiding falls and keeping good mental health. It can mean that you enjoy a few more years of life, and the years you do have are more comfortable. Eating less than your body needs of the right sorts of food can impact on lots of aspects of your life. Getting thinner and frailer is not a normal part of getting older and unexpected weight loss when you are not trying to diet is something to guard against, and try and get help if you find it happening to you or someone you know.

Eat Well Staffordshire can provide a free nutritional and lifestyle assessment from a professional dietitian and trained volunteers with free follow ups and access to a wide range of information, advice and support. With your permission we can refer you to other organisations that can help – we have links to a huge range of organisations. If you are seeking help to lose weight, we can put you in touch with Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Waistlines a local NHS weight management service.

If you would like to get a bit fitter and do some gentle exercise, we can advise you about free local group walks, and low cost exercise classes. We can even provide a bit of support with cookery workshops and demonstrations, help with finding

Youth Club. I want to work with people with disabilities, both physical and mental health and young offenders. That’s what I really want to do...try and help people interact with other people. I think my singing has helped me understand how to express myself.

JMK Where have you been volunteering?

CW Netherstowe Youth Centre, but unfortunately they’re going to shut it which is very sad.

JMK What do you think of Lichfield?

CW I enjoy it, but it can be a bit boring for young people.The only place young people go to is the new skate park or McDonalds. I’m in this forum which is called ‘Young People of Today’ and we look at issues for young people in Lichfield and surrounding areas and we see what we need to change. I’m also part of the British Youth Council. It would be great if we had a bowling alley, or a cinema. It doesn’t have to be a big cinema, one the size of the one at Barton Marina would be great. A sports hall would also be good. We recently visited a centre in Longbridge called The Factory and it has everything you’d need. If we had something like that in Lichfield it would be great for young people. I know that people complain about kids hanging around the town but where else are they going to go? You can’t stay indoors all day.

JMK You’ve had some recording done in a professional studio - Dusted Productions as your prize for winning Lichfield’s Got Talent.

CW Yes, they’re really good, it’s a great place to go. With the money that I won I bought a really nice microphone and I really wanted to try it out at a recording studio. I felt like I was in my element. We’ve recorded all original songs. I wrote the first one and co-wrote the second. I’ll be performing one of them at The Bower this year.

JMK It looks like you may well have two careers then?

CW Yeah, I thought that if it went well that maybe I could use some of the earnings to help charity.

a meal provider or delivered grocery, provider or where you can get some help with your shopping.

The Eat Well Staffordshire team can be contacted on 01785 788 496. If you would like further information about walks and seated exercise groups, telephone 01785 788 472. www.ageuk.org.uk/southstaffs.

Page 17

The Beautiful Game

We’re tackling the beautiful game this time, with a selection of images donated by members of the facebook group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ If you haven’t been to this group’s facebook page, it’s a treasure trove of pictures of the city (past and present) and is dedicated to sharing memories and stories. To join-in just become a member (there’s no charge).

The group also holds regular meetings where anyone can come along to look through lots of photographs, videos, books and other materials that are sure to have the memories flooding back. It’s a

The next meeting of 'You're probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...' is on June 3rd at Netherstowe Youth Centre, St Chads Road, and starts at 7pm.

The July meeting will take place on Tuesday 1st.

There will also be a fantastic Summer Fete taking place on Saturday July 19th that's not to be missed!

Go to the group's facebook page for further details.

Go to the facebook page ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ for further details

Charnwood School team and the late Headmaster Mr Stanley

Lichfield City Institute FC in the 1950s.

Image donated by Mrs Greaves

Rail FC. Image donated by Christine Coleman.

Lichfield Social Club FC. Image donated

by Vicki Woodhouse

Enots FC. Image donated by Kariann Jennings

Lichfield FC. Image donated by Graham Scambler great place to chat to fellow Lichfieldians,and a lovely way to learn about the City if you’re new to the area.

Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Bower Day in the 1960s Thank you to the many readers who responded to our call in the May issue for 1960s Bower memories. We would love to have printed them all, but we’ve chosen two that really give a flavour of Bower Day as it was...

Growing up in the 1960’s I was fortunate to live in Elm Gardens, and the Bower Yard, was just around the corner in a lane off Cherry Orchard. The Bower Yard consisted of a huge building with no windows, wherein the Bower Queen’s ‘tableau or float’, the Prince and Princess ‘float’, and a lot of other stuff used in the Bower were stored all year round. Come the middle of May all the youngsters from the Cherry Orchard would converge, at the Bower Yard, on an evening to see a man called (I think) Albert Barker, who appeared to be Head of the Bower Yard, to hand him our names and addresses to be entered into his book, to enable us to be in the Bower. It was from the Bower Yard, that the uniforms would be issued, for those chosen to be dressed up (either as Beefeaters or Crusaders) for the Court Of Arraye. I think the uniforms came from some Theatrical group based in Nottingham.

Those who were not lucky enough be in the Court of Arraye, would be picked to be one of the “Big Heads” (these I think were made of papier-mache and were heads of Victorian folk) that were also used in the Bower. On the Friday before Bower weekend, the gates to the Bower Yard would be crowded with kids, as we waited for your name to be called out, to say whether you had been lucky enough to be in that year’s Bower.

Being as I had been in the Bower for a few years, in 1968 I was issued with a full Crusader uniform with long cloak and with a sword and scabbard, (imagine Health and Safety issues to-day). The outfit was a heavy woollen knitted uniform in a grey colour, to look like chain mail, which was so hot to wear on a sunny Bower Day. Early on Bower Day morning all of us fully dressed

in our uniforms would walk down to the Guildhall (and I think there would be 10/12 of us) to take part in the court of Arraye. Afterwards we would be issued with sandwiches and cake and a drink (usually a plastic glass containing “Robinsons” orange squash). Then we were hurriedly placed on the “armour tableau”. This was the float that in those days, was to follow the Bower Queen’s float in the Bower procession. The Bower procession in those days included on its route, the area of Cherry Orchard, so Mums and Dads would be in the crowd to see us all. At the end of the Bower Procession, we would race home and change out of our uniforms, and then gather at the Bower Yard, to hand the uniforms back. All were checked and you were then issued with two tokens. One; was for a Bower Cake, and on presenting your token you would be issued with a Bower Cake (this was an almost plain sponge, I say, almost plain, as it contained a few sultanas and raisins). This was done at the Bower Tent (which was placed outside of the Duke of York pub, at the top of Greenhill). And to us children, more importantly, was the second of our tokens which was for your pay, for being a participant in the Bower.

This I think was normally 10/- shilling or 12/6d this money was issued by a lady in an office near the then Lichfield Museum on Beacon Street. So with our money in our hands we would be off to the fair to use the money to go on the rides. Usually, the bumper cars, which were always sited on the Market Square or for the very brave the Big Wheel (which was at the top of Greenhill) or The Ghost Train, which was usually on the waste land that Argos in the Precinct now occupies.

Happy days…

Paul Holt For two young people, Bower Day proved to be quite life changing!

I’m Lichfield born and bred and to me and all other true Lichfieldians, Bower Day was the highlight of our year. It was so exciting, it meant new outfits, new shoes, even new ankle socks, sandwiches packed to eat on the grass on the banks of Lichfield Cathedral or wherever you could get a good view of the procession. It was wonderful, you could hardly move for the crowds of people, not just Lichfield people, but people from the surrounding villages.

One of these villages was Brownhills. My husband to be came from Brownhills. Every Bower Day, he and his friends walked from Brownhills to Lichfield, not to watch the procession but to meet friends from Lichfield and drink in the pubs!

On Bower Day May 1966 I met my husband. I didn’t know it then, but he was a friend of my cousin, they had met for drinks and then in the afternoon my cousin took his friend back to his house to have some food and a rest before they did the “evening session”!

Myself, Mom and family always went back to my Aunty’s house for tea after we’d spent the afternoon at the Bower.

I was eighteen years old and very shy, so when I walked into my Aunty’s and saw this young man, I immediately went outside until the young man and my cousin had left. However, in the meantime, my cousin came outside to say that his friend wanted a date with me and that I was “the one for him”! As I’d already arranged to meet my brother in the same pub as my cousin and his friend were going, we did eventually meet up. The next night Terry and myself had our first date at the cinema in Walsall.

We courted for two years and married at St. Chad’s Church on 27th April 1968, forty-six years ago! We have a son and a daughter and two granddaughters. So you see, memories of Bower Day in the 1960s are very special to me, my husband and family, Theresa Kilbride (Nee Morrison)

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Recently, the Gazette spoke to Michael Fabricant MP about HS2. Here, he updates us on the ‘Never Ending Story’ of this contentious project.

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HS2 – THE NEVER ENDING STORY

n Friday 23rd May, I went on a day trip to London as Parliament is prorogued (in recess) before the State Opening

by H.M. Queen. With me, was a suitcase containing around 40 Petitions to be deposited with the House of Commons before the 2pm deadline requesting changes to the route of HS2. All were deposited with the Clerks on time.

Perhaps now is a good opportunity to consider where we are in the never ending story of HS2.

A month ago, Parliament had its first vote on the principle of HS2. I voted against. I also went one step further. I composed and tabled a motion setting out precisely why I believe HS2 as presently

formulated is wrong. read:

It

THAT this House while recognising the ever increasing need for additional north-south rail line capacity to relieve congestion on the west coast mainline and to improve connectivity between major cities and with London, declines to give the High Speed Rail (London - West Midlands) Bill a second reading because the line as set forth in the Bill (a) is insensitively routed through previously unspoiled countryside unnecessarily damaging the environment including wildlife habitats, ancient woodlands and waterways, (b) is significantly more costly than it need be because of the extra

mitigation required to reduce environmental damage arising from the current planned route, (c) unlike much of the planned route north of the West Midlands and unlike similar lines in continental Europe, does not propose the use of existing transport corridors which would mitigate environmental damage and construction costs, (d) fails to connect directly to existing major mainline stations, (e) fails to connect directly with potential airport hubs for London and the south-east of England, (f) fails to connect with HS1 and the Channel Tunnel, (g) fails to provides for sufficient public transport to disperse passengers disembarking from HS2

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Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

trains at Euston, (h) provides inadequate compensation to those blighted by the route and those whose property is subject to compulsory purchase orders, and (i) does not provide for construction to start from Manchester and Leeds; and therefore calls upon the Government to produce revised HS2 legislation with a more environmentally sympathetic and costeffective route.

And that amendment, listing all the faults of HS2, remains on the record in the House of Commons.

But when the vote came, HS2 was passed with an overwhelming majority as a mass of Labour, LiberalDemocrat, and Conservative MPs trooped through the ‘Aye’ lobby and just 41 – me included – voted ‘No’ against. It was like the Charge of the Light Brigade: doomed but heroic!

With the principle of HS2 approved in Parliament, the Bill now goes through its Committee Stage where the fine detail is determined.

The Committee will sit for several years, spanning the General Election to come, and will look at the route including the thousands of petitions that have been filed with the Committee from individuals, companies, and local councils. It has the power to make whatever changes it

thinks fit.

The Committee is independent of Government and sits in a quasi judicial rôle. They have to be fair. The House has bound them to certain orders – that the route must go from Euston to Birmingham and Handsacre – but route changes are possible.

Staffordshire County Council has petitioned that the line be lowered east of Streethay so that it travels under the A38 rather than over it in a huge viaduct. That petition has my support and if it is successful, it will have benefits to residents both north and south of the A38.

HS2 cannot begin until the Committee has ceased deliberating and the House has passed the Bill at Third Reading. This might not be until 2016 or 2017 – maybe later. If costs have gone up still further, who knows whether whichever Government is in power, they might say enough is enough. HS2 is not yet a done deal.

Whatever happens, I will continue to oppose HS2 strongly.

The current route is neither right for Lichfield nor right for the nation.

By Michael Fabricant

Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield, Staffordshire’s Festival City Welcome to the Lichfield Gazette Festivals Guide 2014.

In this supplement you'll find information on many of the best festivals and events taking place in Lichfield over the next few months.

Lichfield really is a 'Festival City', attracting thousands of visitors every year who come to enjoy literature, art, dance, theatre, comedy and gastronomic delights in a gorgeous setting.

We hope that you enjoy this guide, and that maybe we can inspire you to try a new event or activity. Whatever your tastes, you're guaranteed to find something to please.

The Lichfield Festivals Guide is a Lichfield Gazette publication. Contact the Lichfield Gazette on 01543 302748 or go to www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk for further details.

Summer Concert - Lichfield Cathedral Chorus

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he tsunami of 2004 changed the lives of thousands, and ten years on, Lichfield Cathedral Chorus welcomes the opportunity to honour those affected. The Chorus will be performing the Tsunami Requiem by Chris Williams and the Requiem by Gabriel Faure on Saturday June 7th at Lichfield Cathedral.

Written in India less than a year after the tsunami occurred, the emotional impact of Williams’ music is immense, reflecting the event’s profound effect on those living there. Opening with the villagers and their children joyfully preparing to take the fishing boats out to sea, the mood changes dramatically as the children see the warning signs before the storm hits, then children and adults together survey the once familiar landscape.

Conductor Ben Lamb commented: “This will be a very meaningful evening for me. My brother was in the area affected by the tsunami and I will never forget the day we waited to hear that he was safe.

“The tsunami continues to affect the lives of people today. A baby, swept out to sea asleep in her cot, was washed safely back to shore. That young girl, now around eleven years old, still tells everyone she meets about her amazing escape.”

Lichfield Cathedral Young Voices will be singing the Tsunami Requiem with the Chorus. Young Voices and the older Youth Voices span an age range of 6-18, and are a hugely enthusiastic group united by their love of singing.

Faure’s Requiem was composed, in his own words, “for the pleasure of it” and first performed in 1888. Its serenity and beauty have made the Requiem enduringly popular.

The Summer Concert will take place in Lichfield Cathedral on Saturday June 7th, 7.30pm. Tickets, £12.50, are available now from Lichfield Garrick Box Office 01543 412121, www.lichfieldgarrick.com. Images copyright Lichfield Camera Club.

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Shakespeare in the Park 18th – 21st June

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hakespeare in the Park is a regular and popular event in the Lichfield summer calendar. First taking place in 1983 as a fundraising event to raise money for Wychnor Church 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' was performed in the wonderful setting of the gardens at Wychnor Hall around a huge oak in June of that year. It was so successful that it was decided to repeat the event the following year and in 1984 'The Merry Wives of Windsor' was presented there, followed in 1985 by 'Twelfth Night'.

After that the site at Wychnor ceased to be available but the group were fortunate to be offered the wonderful setting of the beautiful wooded Italian Garden at Maple Hayes Hall. Since then, 'Shakespeare in the Park' has continued to have a home in the Italian Gardens of Maple Hayes School, Lichfield and each year, in June, has staged one of Shakespeare's plays.

Many improvements to the site have been made with a permanent lighting tower, electricity and water on site and improved car parking, but the beauty and magic of the site have been retained to make the annual event of 'Shakespeare in the Park' a truly enchanting one.

Membership of the group is open to anyone and each year's production includes both past members and newcomers who get together for an intensive period of auditioning, rehearsing, staging and performing throughout April, May and June.

Tickets for this year's Shakespeare in the Park production of Romeo and Juliet are now available via the Lichfield Garrick Box office (01543 412121) or online http://www.lichfieldgarrick.com The production will be taking place as usual in the grounds of Maple Hayes Hall, Abnalls Lane, Lichfield WS13 8BL. The show runs from Wednesday 18th June 2014 until Saturday 21st June 2014 with evening performances each day at 7.45 pm and a matinee on Saturday 21st June at 2.00pm. Ticket prices are £13.00 for standard tickets and £10.00 for concessions which are available for senior citizens, students and scholars at the Wednesday and Thursday evening performances and the Saturday matinee.

There will be a licensed bar available on site and picnics are welcomed. Seating will be on straw bales. All proceeds from the production will be distributed to local charities.

For any further information go to www.sitp.org.uk or call Lynn Baker on 01543 254808.

Hecate and Witches from Macbeth 2009

Merry Wives of Windsor 2011 The Tempest 2013

39th Lichfield Folk Festival 20 - 22nd June

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njoyed by people from all over England, Lichfield Folk Festival will once more be held at the Festival’s south Lichfield base on King's Hill Road where Festival organisers hire both King Edward School and King Edward Leisure Centre. Here, Bader Hall, the Gym, the Sports Hall and Activity Room will become the Festival’s dance halls. These three large venues are all within walking distance of one another and visitors can park their cars without charge for the day, free of worries, to join in their favourite pass time.

Lichfield Folk Festival is predominantly a folk dancers' festival, which lists 29 events over a 48 hour period from Friday to Sunday, when seven top-rate folk bands will play with seven nationally known callers from the UK and the USA leading the dancing.

Many dancing events are in the form of workshops, where individual dances are explained in detail and walked through before music is played and the dancing begins.

Different kinds of dancing are covered, from traditional English, properly called Playford but well known as Jane Austen style, to modern English and American contras and squares plus Appalachian clog.

Music workshops cater for a wide range of musicians: from those who can play simple chords to expert players. No instruments are barred and everybody plays together in a festival band, to improve skills and in preparation for playing for dancing at some of the later events. South Staffs is lucky to have resident a number of expert folk musicians and they will lead our workshops.

There will be displays of Morris dancing on the streets of the City centre and at the festival site on Saturday 21st June. In addition, there will be team displays at the evening dances.

Attractive and plentiful hot and cold food is available at reasonable prices and will be provided by the staff at both King Edward School and the Leisure Centre throughout the weekend.

A team of volunteers transforms the site on Friday and Sunday afternoons and up to 40 caravans and motor-homes will be accommodated.

The first event begins at 7.15pm on Friday and the last ends at 5.00pm on Sunday.

Activities are timed to provide continuity throughout each day.

For the 39th time on this weekend in June, several hundred dancers and musicians from the rest of the country will visit, to enjoy what Lichfield Folk Festival has to offer: Lichfield's architecture, great music, lively dancing, team displays, good food and warm companionship.

Weekend tickets cost £52, Saturday sessions £30, Sunday sessions £19, Saturday evening Rovers £10 and individual workshops from £5.

Full details about LFF can be found on their website www.lichfieldfolkfestival.co.uk and festival programmes will be on sale at the Tourist Information Office in St Mary's in the Market Square, priced £1, from one week in advance.

Lichfield Folk Festival is run by Staffordshire Folk, a committee of members from local clubs in Burton, Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley, Stafford, and Walsall, all of which meet weekly.

The ordinary people of England have composed and performed wonderful music and dances for hundreds of years. The music and movements have all been recorded in written/audible form and are available to everyone who knows how to access it.

There is a world of activity devoted to it, yet most people are unaware. If anyone, who can either play or dance, is interested to know more, please come along, see what's going on and talk to the organisers.

Cars in the Park 2014

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ars in the Park 2014 takes place on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July and will see over 2,000 Club Class cars plus commercial and military vehicles, PSVs and motorcycles on display in Beacon Park. There will also be a large selection of stalls.

This year the organisers are offering a prize to be awarded to the best ‘customised’ car club stand along the theme of ‘going for a picnic’.

The event is organised by The Rotary Club of Lichfield St Chad with all funds raised being spread over a number of local, national and international good causes. Once again the event will raise funds for Midlands Air Ambulance. Organisers also wish to express their thanks to the event sponsor vehicle dealerships and the Lichfield Mercury who have continued their support in 2014.

The event is free to visitors but car parking charges apply, see www.carsinthepark.com for further details.

Lichfield Festival Events 2014

Welcome to the 33rd Lichfield Festival

Here, Jennifer Mears, Festival Manager gives us a flavour of the fantastic line up of the Lichfield Festival 2014. he Lichfield Festival? Is it for me? YES YES YES! The Lichfield Festival is a chance for everyone in the City to enjoy fantastic performances from across the world. Whether you are a regular attendee at Festival events or are picking up our programme for the very first time, I urge you to take a risk and give a few new things a try.

When else do you get to party away the end-of-the-weekend blues with an Australian Brass Band or hear the Cathedral’s spires ring out to the sounds of Sinatra?

For ten glorious days in July the Lichfield Festival will bring together artists from around the world for a cultural feast of entertainment and fun. Tickets for events have been flying out of the door since they went on sale in April and this year looks set to be one of the most popular Festivals to date.

We are really pleased to be bringing lots of well known names to Lichfield this year in a programme which offers exciting opportunities for all ages and tastes.

Lichfield Cathedral will provide a majestic setting for beautiful sculptures by Helaine Blumenfeld, WW1 inspired exhibitions by Stephen Raw and work from Emporium Gallery featuring the finalists for the new Lichfield Art Prize. We have music in the Cathedral from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Claire Teal, John Wilson Orchestra and The Sixteen as well as a series of performances by up and coming Young Artists.

For something a bit different, head over to the GarrickTheatre where you won’t go far wrong with quirky American duo Igudesman and Joo, Australian folk band The Woohoo Review or the comedy from the fabulous Le Navet Bete and the Oxford Imps.

Students and younger audience members can enjoy

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tickets for just £5 to Festival events this year, with a fabulous range of Family Shows offering a mini-Festival experience spanning jazz music to stand up comedy for younger audiences.

Add to this, free performances through the week, the Florette Festival Market, a Vintage Tea Party and a host of author events and there really is something for everyone happening in Lichfield this July.

So, go on...give it a try!

We look forward to seeing you there.

Jennifer Mears, Festival Manager Friday 4 July

Brodsky Quartet 3.30pm/ St Michael’s Church/ 110 mins/ £24/ Event 4A “What is so striking about the playing of the Brodsky Quartet is their brimming love for the music.” Gramophone Clare Teal – The Divas and Me! 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 120 mins/ £23, £21, £18, £15, £11/ Event 4B Known for her knowledge and love of the Great American Songbook and more recently The Great British Songbook, Clare serves up an evening of feelgood music, inspired by the greats and played by the best.

Fascinating Aida – Charm Offensive 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 180 mins/ £22/ Event 4C “The glamour is magnetic, the satire razor-sharp, the lyrics brilliant.” The Guardian

Julie Madly Deeply 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 95 mins/ £14/ Event 4D “The hills are alive with the sound of sing-alongs and gags in this witty, affectionate tribute.”

Evening Standard Saturday 5 July

Florette Festival Market 10am – 4pm/ Lichfield Cathedral Close, Dam Street and Minster Walk. Free Featuring craft stalls, children’s activities, refreshments and live entertainment throughout the day, the popular Festival Market, sponsored by Florette is a great day out for all of the family.

Young Artists in Concert : Rosalind Ventris viola, Richard

Uttley piano – Gordon Clark Scholar 2014 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 5A They will play works by Bridge, Rachmaninov and Brahms.

Comedy Club For Kids 2pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 70 mins/ £5/ Ages 7+/ Event 5B “A highlight for children in recent years, giving them a taste of some of the biggest names in comedy…with the fun, rowdy feel of a real comedy club.” The Guardian

Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 120 mins/ £26, £22, £18, £14, £11/ Event 5D Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra brings together over 90 musicians from Chetham’s School of Music, the UK’s largest music school. The orchestra has an outstanding international reputation as one of the finest youth orchestras in the world and are firm Lichfield Festival favourites.

Paul Merton’s Impro Chums 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 100 mins/ £21/ Event 5E Paul Merton and his highly acclaimed Impro Chums are wonders of nature. They take the audience suggestions and create cascades of fantastic tumbling laughter...most of the time.

Intimate Theatre – Candida 7.30pm/ George Hotel/ 120 mins/ £9.75/ Event 5C First performed in 1895.

Candida, the wife of a popular successful parson, is the ultimate woman, practical, independent of spirit, and possessed of all the beauty and charm a man could desire.

Monday 7 July

Young Artist Concert: Ji Liu – piano 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 7A Jiu Lui has appeared as soloist at major venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Wigmore Hall, Purcell Room, Concertgebouw and Carnegie Hall. keep it fresh, vibrant and relevant, this is in no small part thanks to Ruth Rendell.” Ian Rankin

A Young Person’s Guide to the Jazz Orchestra 1.30pm/ Lichfield Guildhall/ 60 mins/ £5/ Ages 2 – adult/ Event 6A A chance for young music lovers to experience a jazz orchestra up close and with all the family.

Dance, listen, clap along with The Sambuca Diaries.

The Festival Little Read: Charlie Higson – The Enemy 2.30pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 60 mins/ £10/ Event 6C “The books in The Enemy series are happily read by children aged from 10 to 50.” Charlie Higson

Intimate Theatre – Candida 7.30pm/ George Hotel/ 120 mins/ £9.75/ Event 6D First performed in 1895.

Candida, the wife of a popular successful parson, is the ultimate woman, practical, independent of spirit, and possessed of all the beauty and charm a man could desire.

The Woohoo Revue

Julie Madly Deeply 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 95 mins/ £14/ Event 5F “The hills are alive with the sound of sing-alongs and gags in this witty, affectionate tribute.”

Evening Standard Sunday 6 July

The Festival Big Read: Ruth Rendell – From Doon With Death 12.30pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 6B “If crime fiction is currently in rude good health, its practitioners striving to better the craft and

8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 110 mins/ £14/ Event 6E “...They could hold their own against both Fanfare Ciocarlia and Taraf de Haidouks...The Woohoo Revue is a Balkanthemed party waiting to happen, and once it starts there’s no turning back.” Songlines Magazine

Philippa Langley and Michael Jones – The King’s Grave 2pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 7B In alternate chapters, Philippa Langley reveals the inside story of the search for the king’s grave, and historian Michael Jones tells of Richard’s fifteenth-century life and death.

Sarah Dry – The Newton Papers 3.45pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 7C Fast-paced and narrative-driven, this book brings together both famous and obscure characters in the hunt for the real Newton.

Kathryn Tickell and The Side 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 110 mins/ £18/ Event 7D “Britain’s most celebrated traditional musician and the world foremost virtuoso on the Northhumbrian pipes... I can’t remember feeling so exhilarated by such a match of music and landscape.” Richard Morrison, The Times Igudesman an Joo – A Little Nightmare Music 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 120 mins/ £20, £18/ Event 7F “Extremely funny, very original, and highly-skilled musicians to boot. Their mix of classical music and comedy is absolutely unique.” John Malkovich Oxford Imps – Ben Van der Velde 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 100 mins/ £10/ Event 7F “Devastatingly funny, lighthearted and thoroughly enjoyable, I didn’t want it to end.”

Ed Fringe Review

Severn and Somme – Redcliffe Film Productions 10pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 60 mins/ £10/ Event 7G Severn and Somme tells the story of the life of Ivor Gurney who served in the First World War.

Page 27

Lichfield Festival Events 2014 Tuesday 8 July

Young Artist Concert: Benjamin Baker – violin 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 8A New Zealand born Benjamin Baker studied at the Yehudi Menuhin School and the Royal College of Music.

If You See A Crocodile 11am/ Garrick Studio/ 45 mins/ £5/ Ages 3-5/ Event 8B A delightful one woman show for the under 5s, incorporating rhymes, puppetry and storytelling in this early introduction to theatre for young audiences.

David Crystal and Hilary Crystal – Wordsmiths and Warriors 11.45am/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £10/ Event 8C Wordsmiths and Warriors explores the heritage of the English through the places in Britain that shaped it.

Peter Snow – When Britain Burned the Whitehouse 2pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £10/ Event 8D In August 1814 the United States’ army is defeated in the battle by an invading force just outside Washington DC. Aquarelle Guitar Quartet 3pm/ Swinfen Hall Hotel/ 110 mins/ £17/ Event 8E Recognised as one of Britain’s leading chamber music groups, the Aquarelle Guitar Quartet is known for its extraordinary ensemble in performance, expansive repertoire and ground breaking work in developing the guitar quartet medium.

The Sixteen – Choral Pilgrimage 2014: Voice of the Turtle Dove 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 100 mins/ £31, £27, £21, £16, £11/ Event 8F “Everything registered on the ear and mind with total lucidity and gripping emotional power.” The Telegraph Miles Jupp 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 100 mins/ £17/ Event 8G “Someone you could listen to forever on almost any subject.”

The British Comedy Guide**** Oxford Imps – Ben Van der Velde 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 100 mins/

£10/ Event 8H “Devastatingly funny, light-hearted and thoroughly enjoyable, I didn’t want it to end.” Ed Fringe Review

Wednesday 9 July

Young Artist Concert: Laura van der Heijden – cello/ Alison Rhind – piano 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 9A “…a completely extraordinary performance of incredible creative intensity…” Nicholas Daniel

The Lichfield Lecture: The Peace Talks Lord Ashdown 12.45pm/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £16/ Event 9B To mark the 30th birthday of the Festival in 2011 we launched The Lichfield Lecture, an annual talk given by a high-profile figure from the arts world.

The John Wilson Orchestra – Celebrating Sinatra 1.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 120 mins/ £38, £31, £26, £19, £13/ Event 9C The John Wilson Orchestra with guest singer Matt Ford presents an evening of hits made famous

by Old Blue Eyes himself.

Gandini Juggling – Smashed 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 60 mins/ £13, £11, Family ticket £40/ Event 9D “Juggling: not just artful but art.

Glorious. When it comes to juggling, the Gandinis pip everyone else.”

The Guardian LipService The Hysterical Historical Show 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 90 mins/ £15/ Event 9E Festival favourites LipService join us for a whacky whirlwind tour of Britain’s female national treasures.

Catrin Finch – harp / Seckou Keita – kora

By Candlelight 10pm/ Lady Chapel/ 70 mins/ £16/ Event 9F “Heavenly music…intricately realised.” Songlines Magazine Thursday 10 July

Young Artist Concert: Peter Moore – trombone / Robert Thompson – piano 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 10A

In 2008, Peter Moore became the youngest ever winner of the BBC Young Musicians Competition.

Nick Arnold - The Horrible Science School Show 1pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 60 mins/ £5/ Age 7+/ Event 10B “The most horrible funny Science talk ever – I wish Nick Arnold had been around when I was in school.” – all this is true and more.

Author Talk: Irving Finkel The Ark Before Noah – Decoding the story of the Flood 2pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 10C British Museum expert Dr Irving Finkel reveals how decoding the symbols on a 4,000 year old piece of clay enable a radical new interpretation of the Noah’s Ark myth.

Author Talk: Alison Weir The Marriage Game 3.45pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 10D “Captivating, intelligent, nononsense prose…this is vintage Weir.” Literary Review

LipService The Hysterical Historical Show 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 90 mins/ £15/ Event 10G Festival favourites LipService join us for a whacky whirlwind tour of Britain’s female national treasures.

Jan Garbarek and the Hilliard Ensemble – Officium Novum 8pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 90 mins, no interval/ £33, £27, £21, £17, £11/ Event 10E “Garbarek’s soprano sax insinuates itself almost imperceptibly into the top line of countertenor, David James, collapsing all barriers between ‘jazz’ and ‘classical’, the sacred and the profane, antiquity and now.” The Guardian

Le Navet Bete presents: Once Upon A Time in A Western 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 120 mins/ £15, £12/ Event 10F This new show – the biggest yet from award – winning, internationally touring troupe of clowns Le Navet Bete – promises an interactive, fast-paced journey across the Wild West as the town of Kidneystone is threatened by outlaw, and all-round bad guy, Loco Pedro, secretly in cahoots with the Mayor to rob the town’s

gold train.

Friday 11 July

Young Artist Concert: Ghislaine Reece-Trapp – organ 11am/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 60 mins/ £12/ Event 11A Ghislaine Reece-Trapp began her musical education as a singer in her local church before taking up the organ at the age of twelve and going on to take the place of Specialist Organist at Wells Cathedral School.

Elias String Quartet 3pm/ St Michael’s Church/ 110 mins/ £17/ Event 11B “Imaginative, full-blooded playing and impeccable ensemble… triumphantly dramatic.” Classic FM Magazine (Editor’s choice)

Penguin Cafe 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 120 mins/ £26, £22, £18, £14, £11/ Event 11C “Penguin Cafe continues to occupy a unique place in music: nothing else has ever sounded quite like it. Eccentric, charming, accommodating, surprising, seductive, warm, reliable, modest and unforgettable: it’s a true friend.” Brian Eno

Lau 8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 120 mins/ £17/ Event 11D “Lau are a remarkable band – the most musically adventurous trio in British folk, exquisite and hypnotic musicianship at its best.” The Guardian The Great War – An Evening of Poetry and Remembrance 7pm/ National Memorial Arboretum/ £15/ Book trough NMA 01283 792333 The National Memorial Arboretum presents an evening of poetry and music to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. The Only Way Is Downton 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 95 mins/ £15/ Event 11E “A fine impressionist, giving a splendid display of Downtonry.”

Stephen Fry “Lovely spoof…spot-on.” Radio Times Saturday 12 July

Saxophone Play Day 9.30am – 4pm/ Lichfield Cathedral School/ £25 The day will include a technique class, solo master class, large

and small group rehearsals and end with a large group performance at the Lichfield Festival Vintage Tea Party.

Siegeneering 10am & 11.30am/ Lichfield Library/ 60 mins/ £5/ Ages 8+/ Book through Lichfield Library 01543 510700 Using maths, physics and engineering skills, students design and develop a siege machine.

Young Artist Concert: Callum Smart – violin / JennieHelen Moston pianist 11am/ Lady Chapel/ 60mins/ £12/ Event 12A Callum Smart attracted wide public attention at the age of thirteen having won the strings category of the 2010 BBC Young Musician Competition performing Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto.

Vintage Tea Party 1pm – 4pm/ Cathedral Close, Free. Take a trip back in the time to the Make Do and Mend era of the 1940s.

What Can Skeletons Tell Us – Forensics Explored 1.30pm & 2.45pm/ Lichfield Library/ 60 mins/ £5/ Ages 8+/ Book trough Lichfield Library 01543 510700

Tarun and the Elephant 1.30pm & 3pm/ Garrick Studio/ 45 mins/ £5/ Ages 3+/ Event 12B & 12D In a land far away where the elephants are hungry and children like to play, a little boy lives in a far off land with his grandmother.

Author Talk: Andy Miller – The Year of Reading Dangerously 2pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 12C “Fresh, joyfully uncynical and, above all, very funny.” Time Out Author Talk: Robert Goddard 3.45pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 12E “A compelling storyteller of our time.” Sunday Telegraph

BBC Philharmonic Orchestra 7.30pm/ Lichfield Cathedral/ 120 mins/ £37, £31, £26, £19, £12/ Event 12F “Mena loves to put a singing quality into phrases, to find little bends and breaths within a

Lichfield Festival Events 2014 tempo, to make as big an effort for delicious pianissimos as for thunderous explosions.” Baltimore Sun

Courtney Pine – House of Legends

8pm/ Lichfield Garrick/ 100 mins/ £17, £15/ Events 12G “Unquestionably one of the most joyous albums Pine has ever made, it’s just brilliantly effective dance music.” Jazzwise The Only Way Is Downton 8pm/ Garrick Studio/ 95 mins/ £15/ Event 12H “A fine impressionist, giving a splendid display of Downtonry.”

Stephen Fry “Lovely spoof…spot-on.” Radio Times Sunday 12 July

Author Talk: Rod Liddle – Selfish, Wining Monkeys: How we ended up Greedy, Narcissistic and Unhappy 2pm/ George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £9/ Event 13A Nowadays, we live longer, richer, safer than ever before. The pettifogging ties than once held us to account in society are now thrillingly soluble.

Author Talk: Sir Hew Strachan – Oxford Illustrated History of the First World War 3.45pm George Hotel/ 60 mins/ £10/ Event 13B The Oxford History of the First World War brings together in one volume many of the most distinguished historians of the conflict, in an account that matches the scale of the events.

Helaine Blumenfeld 3rd July – 31st August/ Lichfield Cathedral “My sculpture is about the positive power of beauty, of hope and of creation. I would like to see beautiful sculpture re-enter the lives of people – not just in art galleries but everywhere, to take its place as part of a restoration of the human Spirit.” Helaine

Blumenfeld

Stephen Raw – Was It For This The Clay Grew Tall?

3rd July – 13th July/ Lichfield Cathedral “Stephen’s aim in his art is to make his language visible. For him, letters themselves are images. His paintings are wordlandscapes wherein the physical word of the poem is perpetually illuminated. In the swirls, loops and circles of his lettering we are brought close to the aliveness which makes great poetry last.”

Carol Ann Duffy Emporium Gallery, The Lichfield Prize and Michela Griffith.

Festival Picks

The Lichfield Festival team offer you their Pick pf the Festival – join us for some amazing evenings of entertainment Friday 4 July – Lichfield Cathedral – 7:30pm Tickets £11 - £23

Clare Teal – The Divas and Me! Our very own Queen of Swing opens the 2014 Lichfield Festival in style celebrating the leading lights of the jazz and big band world, with Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland and Doris Day to name a few.

The multi-award winning singer and BBC Radio 2 broadcaster shows the influence these women have had on her own acclaimed catalogue of work.

With wit and warmth she tells outrageous anecdotes of their extraordinary lives and points to the future of Diva-dom with a few relevant originals and more modern day covers.

Known for her knowledge and love of the Great American Songbook and more recently The Great British Songbook, Clare serves up an evening of feelgood music inspired by the greats and played by the best.

Staff Pick: Julie Barry, Events and Logistics Manager “ This will be my first Festival and I cannot wait to see Clare Teal open it in style! I love hearing classic songs performed by an amazing singer and I know this event will be a great start to the Festival programme.”

Monday 7 July – Lichfield

Cathedral – 7:30pm Tickets £18

Kathryn Tickell and The Side

This exciting new ensemble brings together folk and classical worlds with an irresistible combination of players and instruments.

Channeling their diverse musical experiences into a powerful new sound, The Side stay true to the spirit and essence of Kathryn’s own Northumbrian folk tradition whilst unleashing the talent and creativity of each individual musician.

Evocative slow airs that could break your heart move seamlessly into life-affirming jigs and reels; Amy storms into a clog dance; Kathryn’s dizzying rapidfire piping contrasts with the richness of the cello and Ruth’s sparkling harp playing melds it all together. A very special evening is in store in the company of Kathryn and the Side.

“Britain’s most celebrated traditional musician and the world’s foremost virtuoso on the Northumbrian pipes...I can’t remember feeling so exhilarated by such a match of music and landscape.” Richard Morrison, The Times Staff Pick: Nick Sedgwick, Festival Board Member “This will be an amazing Cathedral evening.”

Monday 7 & Tuesday 8 July – Garrick Studio – 8pm Tickets £10

The Oxford Imps & Ben Van Der Velde

The Oxford Imps have been performing their acclaimed brand of improvised comedy since 2004. The Imps are a mixture of students and locals from the city of Oxford, who do comedy similar to Who’s Line Is It Anyway?

Every show is completely different and made up on the spot entirely based on audience suggestions.

Ben Van Der Velde is a stand-up comedian, actor improviser and presenter, who has spread joy and nonsense to all four corners of England. He has performed in a variety of places, including

friend’s sitting rooms, tents in fields and a cave. He’s good everywhere, just don’t feed him after midnight or let his hair get wet.

“Devastatingly funny, lighthearted and thoroughly enjoyable, I didn’t want it to end” – Edinburgh Fringe Review

Staff Pick: Jennifer Mears, Festival Manager “These events highlight one of my passions of working with the Festival – providing an opportunity to showcase up and coming new talents. I have seen these guys in action and nearly burst my sides with laughter!”

Saturday 12 July – Lichfield Garrick – 8pm Tickets: £15-£17

Courtney Pine – House of Legends

No musician more embodies the dramatic transformation past twenty years than Courtney Pine.

The ground breaking, multiinstrumentalist has led a generation of exciting ad innovative players who have broadened their styles to take jazz out to a wider audience.

House of Legends, Jazzwise Album of the Year, sees Courtney return to the instrument he is best known for- the Saxophone and features his soprano sax exclusively for the first time.

Deeply steeped in the traditions of the Caribbean, this very personal project brings together musicians from Africa, the Caribbean and Europe for vibrant exchanges that tell tales of life from a truly multi-cultural view point.

Expect an exhilarating mix of Meringue, Ska, Mento and Calypso as played through the lens (saxophone) of a UK born artist with strong proud AfroCaribbean roots.

“Unquestionably one of the most joyous albums Pine has ever made, it’s just brilliantly effective dance music.” Jazzwise

Staff Pick: Pam Easto, Education Assistant “We are so fortunate to be able to have Courtney Pine with us at this year’s Festival – a perfect

party end to the 10 day programme.”

Wednesday 9 July – Lichfield Garrick – 8pm Tickets £11 - £13 (Family ticket deal available) Gandini Juggling – SMASHED

The dark art of juggling. 80 apples, 9 performers, 4 crockery sets. You are cordially invited to a tea party that you will never forget.

At the forefront of contemporary circus for over 20 years, and having performed in over 40 countries, Gandini Juggling bring their award-winning sensation SMASHED to Lichfield Festival for one performance only. A mesmerising mix of circus and theatre, inspired by the work of Pina Bausch, this is a rare opportunity to catch this global SMASH-hit.

“Juggling: not just artful but art...Glorious. When it comes to juggling, the Gandinis pip everyone else.” The Guardian Staff Pick: Michelle Jennings, Sponsorship and Marketing Manager

“Having seen this group on TV and Youtube I find them fascinating. Can’t wait to see them live!”

Tickets and Booking Information

For tickets and booking information contact: The Lichfield Festival Donegal House Bore Street Lichfield WS13 6NE Tel: 01543 306270 info@lichfieldfestival.org www.lichfieldfestival.org

The Lichfield Garrick Box Office Lichfield Garrick Theatre Castle Dyke Lichfield WS13 6HR Tel: 01543 412121

Paul Merton’s Impro Chums

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ne of the UK’s best-loved performers Paul Merton will be bringing his Impro Chums to the Lichfield Garrick on Saturday 5th July at 8pm.

Paul Merton and the world renowned Impro Chums: Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster will create a new and unique comedy show, based entirely on suggestions from the audience, their own finely honed improvisational skills and an almost manic compulsion to show off. Special guests may also be joining them ...

"You could see this every night and never tire of it....they continue to be the finest exponents of the improv art" ★★★★ ★ Daily Mirror

★★★★★ British Theatre Guide “few can go comedy commando as well as this bunch” Evening Standard.

For more information see Lichfield Festival event listings on page 27 paulmerton.com comedystoreplayers.com

“Merton's Chums are some of the most seasoned performers in this field and know just how to work the games, the suggestions and the audience for maximum effect...Pure hilarity"

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Call for Local Performers

ith summer fast approaching, the Lichfield Festival and salad specialist Florette are calling for local performers to take to the stage at this year’s Florette Festival Market on Saturday 5 July. Bands, choirs, soloists, comedians and dance troupes are invited to perform outside Lichfield Cathedral as part of this popular event.

The Florette Festival Market brings together crafters, artists and charities from across the region, celebrating the best of local handmade produce. Visitors to the free event can enjoy family activities, shop at over 130 stalls, take a tour of the Cathedral Spires and dine on an array of fresh produce, while enjoying entertainment throughout the day.

Alan Lowe of The Watershed Singers, who will be performing at the festival, commented: “We look forward to performing at the Florette Festival Market every year. The atmosphere is just fantastic.”

As headline sponsor, Florette aims to inspire visitors to this year’s festival to get creative with their salads and will be sharing its range of feel good salad recipes on-stand.

Groups wishing to perform this year should contact the Lichfield Festival Office for more details on 01543 306270.

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Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park

n Saturday 6th September why not bring a picnic, meet up with friends, wave your flags and enjoy an evening of music, fireworks and fun in the beautiful surroundings of Beacon Park.

At Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, The City of Lichfield Concert Band will play from 6pm as the crowd gathers ready for the main concert at 7.30pm. The British Police Symphony Orchestra and singers will then perform a programme of popular classical music and proms anthems. A fireworks display to the sounds of Land of Hope and Glory will bring the spectacular evening to a close.

Children’s activities start from 5.30pm, followed by music from 6pm and the main concert from 7.30pm. Free entry, donations welcome.

Be a VIP with a table right in front of the stage. VIP seats cost £10 each and can be bought in fours and sixes. To book a VIP table, call the proms team on 01543 308775.

To keep up to date on proms news, how to book VIP seating, and car parking arrangements on the night, visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

Free sessions at Stagecoach Lichfield

At Stagecoach Lichfield we provide quality part-time training in the performing arts for children aged 4-18yrs. Our aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes in the Lichfield area, stretching young imaginations and building confidence.

Open every weekend during term time, come join the fun!

Early Stages (for ages 4-6yrs) These 90 minute sessions include 30 mins each of singing, dance and drama per week.

The classes build kids’ confidence and develop life skills while they have fun and meet new friends. Perfect for little ones with big imaginations Main School (for ages 6-18yrs) Stagecoach main schools run for three hours each week, where kids do one hour each of singing, dancing and acting. Taught by three professional teachers, this school is ideal for those who wish to pursue a career in the arts or simply learn new skills while having fun!

Page 32 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

MICHAEL FABRICANT MP Member of Parliament for Lichfield

Michael Fabricant is your Member of Parliament. He is available to help you with problems you may be encountering including those with Government departments and with Government agencies.

If you think he can assist you, and you live in the constituency, please write to him at the: House of Commons London SW1A 0AA Or telephone Lichfield 01543 419650, or use the webform at www.michael.fabricant.mp.co.uk/contact.html for help or for an appointment to see him.

Page 34 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Arts

Programme of Events - Summer and Autumn 2014

• The LA Project – 6th June at Lichfield Guildhall

Featuring: A joint project that involves musicians, bands and South Staffs College students running sound, lighting and stage management etc. This is part of an ongoing partnership between Lichfield Arts and South Staffordshire College students who are currently working on a marketing project for the LA Project and Fuse

• Fuse – 11th to 13th July, Beacon Park

This year’s Fuse will be bigger and better than ever with three entertainment marquees and performances from local favourites including the King Edwards School Orchestra, Wildfire Folk and a whole lot more.

Once again entry to Fuse will be FREE!!

The fantastic three day festival features…

Beacon Stage: Friday: Headliners - The Born Again Beatles Saturday: Battle Acoustica winner Amelia Harrison and Headliners - SN Dubstation.

Sunday: Festival Church Service, Wildfire Folk, Blast Off Park Stage: Featuring Local bands.

Friday Headliners - The Clarksville Mountain

Band.

Saturday: Battle Of The Bands winners Wally Von Zipper, Headliners - Stubblemelt.

Sunday: King Edwards Salon Orchestra

Plus

Café Fuse and family area: Comedy, storytelling, arts and crafts, music and dance workshops.

Lichfield Arts’ Outreach Team and Newave Arts are running a project with six local schools called ‘Through The Decades’. This will be a showcase of dance, drama, singing and art featuring various decades from the 1920’s through to the 1990’s. The schools will present their final performances at Fuse on Sunday 13th July 2014. Other outreach projects include ‘Blast Off ’ community band, playing an explosive mix of funky riffs, catchy tunes and groovy beats, led by former Netherstowe School student Nick Dewhurst, who recently graduated from Birmingham Conservatoire with 1st class honours. This outreach work will continue beyond Fuse.

• Festival of Folk (L2F) - 24th to 26th October

Featuring: Friday: Kimber’s Men Saturday: Headliner - Oysterband at Lichfield Cathedral.

Sunday: Headliner - Home Service Saturday afternoon: Procession from Lichfield Cathedral to Guildhall led by Morris sides plus traditional dancing and ‘Mummers’.

• Lichfield Arts Autumn Program

Running from September to the end of December 2014 Includes: Rock Night on 21st Nov. In Flanders Field (WW1 songs and stories) 9th Nov. Dylan Project 14th Dec. Victorian Xmas Show 22nd Dec.

• Tickets and Booking Tickets are available to purchase from Lichfield Arts, Donegal House, Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LU. Telephone: 01543 262223 or email: info@lichfieldarts.org.uk Further information is available at www.lichfieldarts.org.uk Lichfield Arts are always happy to welcome new volunteers. Contact Lichfield Arts on 01543 262223, go to www.lichfieldarts.org.uk or drop in for further details.

Elite Academy of Performing Arts

Auditions for the full time vocational course are to take place in June and July . Email for more information of courses available. The BTEC course is in association with South Staffordshire College and is an exciting opportunity which will become a tailor-made course where students strengths and weaknesses will be assessed.

"Elite is a nurturing environment and always puts the students welfare first. We discuss which is the best path to take upon graduation and prepare all audition pieces with one to one tuition for singing and acting.

Our team of teachers are all professionals and with the academy having its own agency students can work to gain experience but also to earn their own money which is an important lesson within itself. Unlike the larger colleges there is the scope for students to achieve goals to an exceptionally high standard."

PRINCIPAL Miss Donna Wilcox FIDTA (fellow and examiner), BA Hons, ARAD, RAD TDIP. Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Swing Along to the WW2 Weekend at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum

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n Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2014 the Staffordshire Regiment Museum will be alive with the ‘swing’ of 1940s performers, the action of Lindy Hop dancers, the pleasure of vintage themed stalls and the excitement of battle re-enactments. 2014 WW2 Living History is the 70th anniversary of one of the most iconic engagements of WW2 Association Re-enactors – Operation Market Garden (the subject of the film A Bridge Too Far) and the Museum is staging a 1940s extravaganza in commemoration.

The weekend is designed to be a mixture of interactive activities lead by fantastic re-enactors – many of whom are depicting the men of the heroic Airborne Division who were dropped into Holland in gliders in 1944, plus stalls, performances and activities that evoke the Home Front.

On the day visitors will be greeted at a WW2 ‘Guard Point’ and welcomed into the event by ‘Land Girls’. Why not wander through the Black Market Bazaar that’s selling all manner of lovely items, including 1940s fashions, homewares, crafts and jewellery? If you’re feeling peckish, try the NAAFI canteen tent that will take you back to the time of ‘make do and mend’ or there’s the hog roast and beer tent (if your ration book runs to it!)

Visitors can also listen to the much loved singer Bexi Owen who puts the glam into glamourpuss, and sing along with the ‘evacuee choir’ made up of local school children. Watch out for the ‘Spiv’ who might try to sell you silk stockings and you might even spot Mr Churchill in the crowd. There’s so much to see and do you’ll want to stay all day!

This weekend is designed to be a respectful but engaging and exciting look at this period of WW2 with re-enactments that are a great way to learn about the men of the Regiment’s heroic involvement in the campaigns of 1944.

The WW2 Weekend takes place at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2014. The events starts at 10am and concludes at 4pm. Entry £6 for adults, £4 for children under 16 and all concession including senior-citizens and full-time students. Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children £15).

For more information go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com or call 01543 434394.

Lichfield Heritage Weekend: Hidden Histories Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September at Lichfield Market Square and venues across the city Lichfield is full of interesting buildings to explore and hidden histories to discover. Enjoy this weekend festival when heritage attractions throw open their doors for free to show you all their hidden secrets! A full programme will be out in August. To be added to Visit Lichfield’s mailing list, please call Tourist Information at St Mary’s in the Market Square on 01543 256611. www.visitlichfield.co.uk/heritageweekend

Bexi Owen - Image Spacehopper Events

Lots of Vintage fashion Image Spacehopper Events

Shopping Galore - Image Spacehopper Events Page 37

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ith the weather warming up, festival fever is creeping up on us, with a special announcement from Fake Festivals of ‘The Big Fake Festival’, as well as the return of Lichfield Fake Festival.

Lichfield Fake Festival will be once more part of the hugely successful Fake Festivals tour, the only touring tribute of its kind. Taking place on Saturday 16th August at its usual spot at Beacon Park, the festival is guaranteed to be a sell out again, and early bird tickets are already on sale from the Fake Festival website, www.fakefestivals.co.uk.

With a line up boasting the best tributes to Queen, Oasis and Coldplay, as well as local support acts, this year’s festival will certainly have the tent rocking out.

“We’re excited to be back at Lichfield this year, with once again an incredible line-up of world-class tributes,” says Lee Storey, license holder for Lichfield Fake Festival. “We had a total sell-out last year, and we’re hoping for the same again this year, as we feel we have a fabulous line-up to suit all music tastes and ages.

“This year we also have the special announcement of The Big Fake Festival which we’re really excited about, so grab a ticket now so you don’t miss out.”

After a record-breaking year in 2013, Fake Festivals will be hosting a special three day festival in September, The Big Fake Festival. If you buy a ticket to Lichfield Fake Festival, or any of the festivals on the 2014 tour, you automatically get a free ticket to The Big Fake Festival at Thoresby Park, Nottinghamshire from 5th to 7th September. Just register your ticket code on the Fake Festivals website. Tickets cannot be bought separately for this event as it is exclusively for festival-goers on the 2014 tour dates, so make sure you don’t miss out on this fabulous opportunity to see eighteen of the world’s best tribute bands across three days of festival fun, as well as free camping.

RETURNS AND THE EXCLUSIVE ‘BIG FAKE FESTIVAL’ IS ANNOUNCED FOR THE SUMMER

Lichfield Fake Festival line up is: Supreme Queen, Oasish and Coldplace.

Tickets are priced as follows for Lichfield Fake Festival: Early bird tickets available now until 16th July 2014: Adult (18+) £15.00 Young Person (10-17 yrs) £8.00 Family (2 x Adult, 2 x Young Person) £38.00 Child (0-9 yrs) FREE Advanced tickets from 17th July 2014: Adult (18+) £20.00 Young Person (10-17 yrs) £10.00 Family (2 x Adult, 2 x Young Person) £50.00 Child (0-9 yrs) FREE Tickets on the door: Adult (18+) £25.00 Young Person (10-17 yrs) £15.00 Family (2 x Adult, 2 x Young Person) £70.00 Child (0-9 yrs) FREE Tickets can be bought online at www.fakefestivals.co.uk or from the following outlets: · Lichfield Tourist Information, St Mary’s, Market Square, Lichfield · The Feathers Inn, 118 Beacon Street, Lichfield · Lichfield District Arts, 32a Bore Street, Lichfield · Lakeside Bistro, Beacon Park, Swan Road, Lichfield · Chandlers Restaurant, Conduit Street, Lichfield · Keith Hall Hairdressing, 29a Market Street, Lichfield · Whimsical, Unit 25, The Lightworks, 75-79 Market Street, Hednesford WS12 1AD For more information about Lichfield Fake Festival and The Big Fake Festival, please visit www.fakefestivals.co.uk or telephone 0800 652 2852.

READER COMPETITION

We’ve got together with Fake Festival to offer readers the opportunity to win one of SIX pairs of tickets to this great event (plus a bonus Big Fake Festival event in September). To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question…

In which English county is the Big Fake Festival being held between 5-7 September this year?

Just send your entry to Fake Festival Competition, Lichfield Gazette, PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 7EZ. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified. The competition closing date is 30 June. Winners will be notified by post. Don’t forget to put your address on. Good luck!

Lichfield Food Festival Programme 2014.

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ocal and regional chefs will be cooking up a storm this summer at Lichfield’s free entry food festival, which will descend on the city on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August 2014.

The organisers behind Lichfield Food Festival are inviting food lovers to join them in the historic city of Lichfield for a weekend that celebrates local food producers, top local chefs and the city’s food venues.

The programme is set to feature cookery demonstrations by chefs, food stalls throughout the city as part of the Lichfield Food Festival Market, a celebration of local brewing, demonstrations of top kitchen equipment brands, a baking competition, a children’s cupcake hunt and much more.

Over the two-day event many eateries across the city will also offer diners set menus for £10, and bars and pubs will offer a glass of wine or ale for £3, as destinations on the Wine & Ale and World Food trails.

Lichfield Food Festival is organised in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Central England Co-operative, Chef Simon Smith, Lichfield City Council, Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield Arts, Tippers, The Kitchen Shop and The George Hotel. It is sponsored by Central England Co-operative, Tippers and NFU Mutual.

Chef Simon Smith said: “We’re all delighted to launch the third Lichfield Food Festival and expect the city centre to be packed over the two days with people who know good food and drink when they see it!

“There will be plenty on offer to suit all tastes, with the chance to see pop-up cookery demonstrations by chefs in the city centre, including fine dining dishes, family friendly recipes and healthy eating delicacies. We’ve also got TV chef, Rachel Green, performing cookery displays at Tippers and the city centre will be packed with producers’ stalls, plus lots more.”

To see the programme of free entry events and activities, to sign up to being a venue on the food and drink trails, or to enter the baking competition, please visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

Winner of cake comp in 2013 Afternoon Tea by Rachel Grassby

Rachel Green

Simon Smith cookery demo

Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Saturday 30 August Pop-up cookery demonstrations - Lichfield City Centre - 11am to 4.30pm. The festival’s main sponsor, Central England Co-operative, in association with Chef Simon Smith, is delighted to present a series of pop-up cookery demonstrations by chefs from across the region. From high-end dining and healthy eating, to Chinese dishes and fun food for the family, there is a display to suit all tastes! The displays will be presented on the hour from 11am to 4pm.

Rachel Green. - Tippers in Britannia Enterprise Park - Times to be confirmed - Free entry. The Kill it! Cook it! Eat it! TV chef, Rachel Green, is back by popular demand and will present two cookery demonstrations at Tippers. Seats will be allocated on a first-come-first-seated basis. There will also be a selection of food producers’ stalls available throughout the kitchen showroom on this day.

Equipment & cookery demonstrations. -The Kitchen Shop & The George Hotel-10am to 4pm-Free entry. In The Kitchen Shop on Market Street, QVC and Ideal World TV presenter, Mal Harradine, will be in-store on both days with a series of fun cookery demonstrations. He will be showcasing top brands such as Le Creuset and a range of his favourite gadgets.

The Kitchen Shop has also organised kitchen equipment demonstrations of popular brands, such as KitchenAid, Sodastream and Joseph Joseph, at The George Hotel on Bird Street. On top of this I.O.Shen Knives will offer a knife sharpening service for £2 a knife, with the proceeds going to St Giles Hospice. There will be lots of festival deals and competitions to enter at both venues.

Lichfield Food Festival Market - Lichfield’s Market Square and Three Spires Shopping Centre - 9am to 3pm. Free entry. Organised by Lichfield City Council, Lichfield Food Festival Market is set to bring passionately produced food from across the region and a wide range of goods to Lichfield over the festival weekend.

The Best of Local Brewers - The Guildroom - Lichfield’s Guildhall - 12 noon to 6pm- Free entry. Brought to you by Lichfield Arts, The Best of Local Brewers will feature a selection of Real Ales from local breweries plus craft lager and traditional ciders. You can also enjoy a glass of wine, soft drinks or a cup of tea with homemade cakes, with a choice of food including the ‘Famous Pork Pies'. A venue on the Ale & Wine Trail.

Cupcake Hunt - Starts from St Mary’s in the Market Square - 10.30am to 3.30pm. Pick up your free Cupcake Hunt map from the tourist information desk and follow the clues to find eight cupcake pictures dotted across the city. Bring your completed sheet back to St Mary’s to claim your tasty treat. Sponsored by NFU Mutual, Burntwood branch.

Sunday 31 August Pop-up cookery demonstrations - Lichfield City Centre-Sunday 31 August-12 noon to 4.30pm. For details see Saturday 30th August.

Equipment & cookery demonstrations - The Kitchen Shop & The George Hotel-10am to 4pm-Free entry. For details see Saturday 30th August.

Lichfield Food Festival Market - Lichfield Market Square and Three Spires Shopping Centre - 9am to 3pm-Free entry. For details see Saturday 30th August.

The Best of Local Brewers - The Guildroom, Lichfield’s Guildhall-12 noon to 4pm-Free entry. For details see Saturday 30th August.

Baking Competition - Three Spires Shopping Centre-Sign in from 12 noon to 1pm, winners announced at 4pm. We’re inviting amateur bakers to enter a wedding cake top tier or six wedding cupcakes to be in with a chance to win vouchers to spend in The Kitchen Shop. Younger bakers can also enter four Cinderella themed cupcakes to be in with a chance to win a family ticket to see Cinderella at the Lichfield Garrick. Find out more and enter online at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

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

What’s On - June 2014

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 and brief description. For commercial events please contact a member of the sales team for advertising prices.

Sun 1 June Chasewater Craft & Farmers Market 10.00am to 3.00pm at Chasewater Country Park. Come along to the first Chasewater Craft & Farmers' Market, which will take place on the first Sunday of every month until 7 December 2014. Free entry.

Middleton Motors Monthly 10.00am to 1.00pm at Middleton Hall.

Do you own a vehicle that turns heads? Old, new, fast, slow, big, small, if you love it – come and show it. £2 donation to show your car, all proceeds to the restoration of Middleton Hall. General Public £2 to park your car.

Tue 3 June Folk Night 7.30pm at The Royal British Legion, Alrewas. This new venue for Martin, Stef and John proved to be a huge success last month with a bigger audience than ever. Jayne, the club stewardess and her bar staff Kelly and Danny were so helpful, enthusiastic, and welcoming.

Although the club was full, everyone was seated - and all on very comfortable soft padded chairs! As usual, there is no charge to get in, but the purchase of at least one raffle ticket, helps towards the travel expenses for these 3 wonderful guys.

People say they’re mad. Nah – they just love what they do!

Neaten and Natter 11.00am to 1.00pm at Beacon Park.

Our volunteer group is a great way to meet new people and help keep Beacon Park looking at its best. Tasks include litter picking, weeding and more. We’ll provide all the equipment and you can choose which tasks you want to get involved in.

Tue 3 – Sat 7 June The Witches of Eastwick 7.30pm (and 2.30pm on Sat) at the Lichfield Garrick. Amateur Production

by Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company. This production contains some sexual content which may be deemed unsuitable for young children.

Bored of their lives and frustrated by the constant scrutiny and disapproval of their stuck-up neighbours, three

divorcees fantasise about their ideal man. A musical comedy.

Thu 5 June Moth Recording Morning 8.30am to 9.30am at Beacon Park.

Identify moths caught in traps from the night before. We can’t guarantee any moths will be caught and any that are will be released following the event. Meet at the Discovery Hub. Sat 7 Jun Family Craft Workshop 10.30am at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See page 20.

Tower Tours at Lichfield Cathedral 10.00am, 12 noon and 2.00pm. Climb the Great Central Tower at Lichfield Cathedral - enjoy a spectacular view of Lichfield and beyond - a white knuckle tour for all the family. Tours last 1½ hours. Tickets Adults £6.50, Family tickets (2 adults & 2 children) £20. Includes tea or coffee in 'the cafe in the close' and 10% discount in the cathedral shop. Suitable for over 8s only and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Other restrictions apply check website for details.

St Giles Hospice Garden Party 12 noon t 4.00pm at St Giles Hospice.

Enjoy a great afternoon and support your local Hospice. Live music, delicious food and drink, craft stalls, tombola, kiddies corner and much more. £1 entrance fee children free.

Lichfield Cathedral Chorus Summer Concert 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Fauré’s Requiem and Chris Williams’ Tsunami Requiem. Tickets available from the Lichfield Garrick call 01543 412121 or buy on the door. £7.50.On site parking for disabled badge holders only.

Sun 8 June Talon 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Now in their seventeenth year together Talon have been recognised by the ‘Agents Association of Great Britain' at the ‘National Tribute Awards' as the ‘Official UK No. 1' Eagles tribute show.

The Flea at the Farm 10.00am to 5.00pm at Curborough Hall Farm Conservatory. Find a treasure, bag a bargain or just enjoy a good mooch!

Tue 10 & Wed 11 June All Shook Up 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. South Staffordshire College Performing Arts Department. Amateur Production.

Inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley, - a new twist on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. It's 1955, and into a square little town in a square little state rides a guitarplaying roustabout who changes

everything.

Fri 13 June Julian Smith 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Julian is renowned as one of Britain's most popular and successful Soprano Saxophonists.

Sat 14 Jun Tower Tours at Lichfield Cathedral See Sat 7 June.

Lichfield Wildlife Group 11.00am at Elford Walled Garden.

Elford Hall was sadly demolished in the 1960’s, but the Walled Garden that served the Hall throughout the 19th century remains. There will be a guided walk around the garden. Cost £2.00 per person includes refreshments (tea, coffee, etc.)

Payment on the day or to book and for more information, call Ray Allen Tel: 01543 251654.

Bookworms United 10.30am to 12 noon are back at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

Read, explore and enjoy popular titles in the fortnightly book and activity club for 7-11 year olds. £4.00 per session including books and refreshments.

Midsummer Fairy Cakes 9.30am to 11.30am at Darwin Hall.

Learn how to make fondant figures and take home a gift boxed set of 6 handmade cupcakes. 2 hours tuition, refreshments, materials and gift wrappings included. Tickets £25 and half of the profits donated to St.Giles Hospice. A workshop for adults, but well behaved children can have a smaller set of 4 cakes to decorate for £15. Under 10s must be accompanied.

Clifton Campville Country Fair At Millennium Green, Clifton Campville. Fun day for all ages, celebrating the countryside and its animals. Craft fair included. £2.50 adults, 50p children.

More Tea Vicar?

7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. With Dad’s Army Vicar, Frank Williams, celebrating a lifetime of the legendary BBC TV series. In an entertaining trip down memory lane, Frank offers a unique glimpse behind the scenes with his private video footage and stories of the celebrated cast of Dad`s Army. Frank will personally sign copies of his best-selling autobiography, Vicar to Dad’s Army.

Sun 15 Jun The Lichfield Jolly 3.00pm at the Market Square. A fun, free, family friendly bike ride around the city centre streets of Lichfield for a cycle tour of some of the most iconic Lichfield landmarks including the Cathedral, St Chads Church and

through Beacon Park. There will be a vintage theme for the ride, perfect for those with an old bike or who fancy getting dressed up in their finest regalia, but all are welcome.

Father's Day At Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. Show your Dad just how much you care by treating him to a delicious 3 course lunch in The Oak Room Restaurant.

Enjoy a wonderful 3 course lunch with coffee. £21.50 per person, children under 12: £14.50. Tel: 0121 308 3751.

Historic Vehicle Day 11.00am at Middleton Hall. Middleton Hall’s shady Glade is a superb backdrop to a fantastic display of historic vehicles. Picnic in the Glade and dance to the music of George Huxley and his jazzmen. Tel: 01827 283095

Darwin Summer Fayre 11.00am to 2.00pm at Darwin Hall.

Join in the fun of this Summer Fayre lots of stalls with gifts & food as well as a live band. Refreshments will be available. Entrance Fee 50p Fathers' Day Steakhouse Sunday Lunch 12.30pm to 2.30pm at Netherstowe House. Treat Dad to a day out, with a sumptuous seasonal Sunday lunch or Gentleman's afternoon tea, served in our Steakhouse Brasserie.

Father's Afternoon Tea 3.00pm to 5.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. Includes a pot of tea, assorted finger sandwiches and a selection of pastries and cakes, served between 3 and 5pm. There’s also a ½ pint of Theakston’s Best Bitter for all dads!

Mon 16 June Nick Owen in conversation with Brian Conley 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Nick Owen meets Brian Conley to discuss his incredible showbiz career.

Tue 17 June The Ladyboys of Bangkok 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Join the festivities as the cast take you on a parade through comedy, cabaret and carnival beat with 16 of the world's most entrancing beauties, perfect makeup, stunning costumes, iconic numbers and fabulous choreography.

Jaleo Flamenco 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Back with a compelling new insight into their flamboyant and magical flamenco world of Andalusian dance, song and guitar. Flamenco is now a highly respected and internationally accepted art-form with a rapidly growing number of people worldwide.

Thu 19 June Ascot Ladies' Day Lunch 12 noon to 5.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. Join us as we celebrate the world’s most glamorous race. A superb 3 course lunch followed by an afternoon at the races, big screens, plus tea and scones. A bookmaker will be on hand and you are encouraged to dress up to the nines! To book call 0121 308 3751. Please note that full pre-payment is required at the time of booking. £62 per person. £5 from each ticket sale will be donated to The Sutton Coldfield YMCA. Thu 19 & Fri 20 June Carrie’s War 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Apollo Theatre Company present this brand new production, bringing Nina Bawden’s classic novel to the stage, directed by Tim Astley. When the WW2 air raids threaten their safety in the city, Carrie Willow and her brother, Nick are evacuated to a small village in the Welsh countryside. The children quickly learn that this is a place unlike any they have ever known and begin to discover the joys, and terrors, the countryside possesses.

Fri 20 June Quiz Night with Fish & Chip Supper 7.30pm at Lichfield City Football Club.

This is a fundraiser for Lichfield Mysteries. A fun quiz with prizes for the winning team. Licensed bar and raffle. Teams of four. £10 per person, including Fish & Chip Supper. Tel: 01543 506826.

Sat 21 June St Giles Hospice Solstice Walk 10.00am at Friary Grange Leisure Centre. Ladies only moonlight walk around the cathedral city of Lichfield. £15. Tel: 01543 434577.

Tower Tours at Lichfield Cathedral See Sat 7 June.

Des O'Connor 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. A rare opportunity to see a true show business legend live on stage for a wonderful evening of comedy, laughter and music.

Sat 21 June to Sun 7 Sept Lines of Beauty 10.30am to 4.30pm at The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Lichfield Calligraphers bring words to life in an exhibition of works displayed around our beautiful historic building. Free entry, donations welcome.

Sun 22 June National Garden Scheme 1.00pm at Middleton Hall. Come and enjoy the peaceful and magical atmosphere of our walled garden, dating back to the early 18th century.

Stroll through the orchard; take in the Glade and sunken garden. Meet the

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

Another ‘Michael Buble’ evening.

Fri 20th June

Limited seats available. Call 01543 255000

Star cast for Garrick ‘September in the Rain’

September in the Rain will run at the Garrick from 30 May to 21 June and stars David Lonsdale (Heartbeat) and Sarah Jane Buckley (Hollyoakes).

Following on from last year's success with Educating Rita, The Lichfield Garrick Rep Company presents John Godber's classic play which tells the touching and humorous story of a marriage through a lifetime of annual September holidays together. Loosely based on Godber's own Yorkshire grandparents, September in the Rain is a nostalgic wander down the rain-sodden streets and beaches of Blackpool in its heyday.

Jack and Liz guide audiences gently back through their various September holidays spent in the famous British resort: the cramped boarding houses, sitting on the beach with trousers rolled up and socks pulled up even further, and of course climbing the famous Blackpool tower.They share with the frustrations and joys of an ordinary marriage: the triumphs, the regrets and the unsung love. Even after the years have passed, the pair is still very much in love with each other and Blackpool.

David Lonsdale is best known for his role as David Stockwell in the long-running series Heatbeat. The show also stars Sarah Jane Buckley, who played the role of Kathy Barnes in the hit Channel 4 Soap, Hollyoaks and is starring as Eva Cassidy in the national tour of Songbird.

The Lichfield Garrick Rep Company's production of the longstanding Godber classic will be directed by Gareth Tudor Price and designed by John Brooking.

Please book your seats early www.qmin.co.uk

September in the Rain runs at the Lichfield Garrick from Friday 30 May to Saturday 21 June, with a variety of evening and matinee performances. Tickets cost from £12 for adults and £10 for students, and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Lee Garden SPECIAL OFFER JUNE ONLY!

* Free Bottle of House Wine - for every table of 4 persons. * 20% off A La Carte Menu

*Offer until end of June *Between Sunday to Thursday *Applies to A La Carte and Set menus *Only one offer can be used at any one time *Not in conjunction with any other offer *Excluding Sunday buffet lunch/ special business lunch menu and excluding takeaways *Maximum discount of £40 per booking.

Book now for Fathe rs Day Sund ay 15th J un e

Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388

volunteer gardeners who dedicate their time to the conservation of these beautiful gardens. Plants for sale.

Music from Sutton Community Choir. £3 adults, £2 concessions, children go free.

Aloha From Hawaii 8.00pm at the Lichfield Garrick.

Tribute concert starring European Elvis Champion 2011, Gordon Hendricks.

Mon 24 & Tue 23 June Sally Morgan 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick.

Britain's best-loved psychic Sally Morgan is the star of Sky living’s Psychic Sally on the Road!

Thu 26 June Lichfield Civic Society 7.45pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. Talk on "The Role Of The Police Commissioner" by Matthew Ellis. All are welcome to this meeting of the Lichfield Civic Society. Members Free. Non Members £3 at the door.

Roy Orbison & Friends 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Barry Steele presents his all live spectacular Multi Media Tribute to The Big O featuring classic Orbison hits from the 60s right through to the Late 80's.

Using film footage from the era, and backed by his fabulous band.

Fri 27 June And Finally…Phil Collins 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. This two hour spectacular includes all the classic hits In The Air Tonight, Easy Lover, Sussudio, Another Day In Paradise and many more performed

by a world class ten piece line-up of musicians.

An Evening with Michael Fabricant MP 8.00pm at the Lichfield Garrick (Studio). The evening will take the form made popular by Desert Island Discs with Michael in conversation with Jonathan Hall. An MP for Lichfield since 1992, Michael’s national profile, following on from his opposition to HS2 and his subsequent sacking "via Twitter" as Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party, has never been higher. But how much do you know about Michael and where do Llamas and Ukuleles fit into his life?

Sat 28 Jun St Chad’s Garden Party 2.00pm in the grounds of Well Cottage (inside the church if wet!) Raffle, Stalls including Bric a Brac, Tombola, Refreshments etc.

Tower Tours at Lichfield Cathedral See Sat 7 June.

Bookworms United See Sat 14 June.

Armed Forces Day 9.00am to 5.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. A fun day of activities suitable for all the family.

Free entry, with a small charge for some activities.

Community Drop In 11.00am 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 concerns and suggestions. We will be

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD based in the Lakeside Bistro or just outside on dry days.

Burntwood Singers' Summer Music Concert 7.30pm at Burntwood Memorial Institute. A selection of light music for a summer evening. £5, tickets on the door.

The Manfreds 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. The Manfreds, with “The One In The Middle” Paul Jones, will be performing many of their biggest hits including 5-4-3-2-1, Pretty Flamingo and Do Wah Diddy Diddy, along with a mix of solo hits and jazz and rhythm'n'blues renditions for which they are famous.

Sun 29 June Food & Craft Market 10.00am at Middleton Hall. Supporting local businesses with 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. Something for all the family. £2 to park and all proceeds go to the restoration of the hall and grounds.

Cycle Rides for All - Fradley Junction 10.00am to 5.00pm at Freedom Cycles, Bus Station, Lichfield. Get on your bike and enjoy a free, led cycle ride each month.

Fradley Junction (12 miles/level 2). Rides are graded - level 1, suitable for beginners, level 4 for more experienced cyclists. All bikes are given a safety check by Freedom Cycles before setting off. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. We recommend wearing a safety helmet, appropriate clothes, and bringing a packed lunch and drink (although most rides do include a cafe stop).

Tue 1 July Neaten and Natter At Beacon Park. See Tue 3 June.

Jethro 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Warning Contains adult humour - Over 16 years only. The Cornish comedy legend is back, as large as life with his very own unique brand of irresistible West Country tales for a fun-filled night of adult comedy.

Wed 2 July Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutte 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Sung in English. Opera UK has added to the poignancy of the storyline by setting the opera in 1914 as WW1 is looming.

Thu 3 July The Twist 7.30pm at the Lichfield Garrick. Playing tribute to the greatest Rock ‘n' Roll stars of the 50s and 60s. Starring BBC's Strictly Come Dancing and I Love My Country lead singer, Chris Madin and West End sweetheart Suzi Madin.

Fri 4 – Sun 13 July The Lichfield Festival The annual Lichfield Festival takes place in venues across the city with main events in Lichfield Cathedral and Lichfield Garrick.

See the full Festival programme in this magazine. Details of advance booking call 01543 306270. www.lichfieldfestival.org

Sat 5 July Elford Folk and Real Ale Festival 2.00pm to 11.00pm at Elford Hall Garden. A family friendly event held in the Walled Garden with music and lots of local acts.

Different real ales, cider and wine and a

BBQ and hog roast. Cream teas will be served in the Rose Garden and there will be free games for children inside the walled garden as well as craft stalls scattered around the audience area. As the evening draws on and the light fades away it is very atmospheric.

National Town Criers' Competition 11.45am and 2.30pm at Speakers' Corner, Dam St, Lichfield. Costumed Town Criers from across England in this most entertaining competition.

The ‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley Junction

Quiz Night 7.30om for 8.00pm at Darwin Hall.

Leomansley Area Residents Association (LARA). £5 per person. Maximum teams of 6. CASH prize for winning team. Raffle with generous prizes. Ticket includes light refreshments. Bring your own alcohol; glasses provided. For further information and to book your place please call 01543 898 551 or 01543 255 335 or just turn up on the night.

Venue details

Beacon Park - Swan Rd, Lichfield WS13 6QZ Burntwood memorial Institute – Burntwood, WS7 9BE Cannock Wood/Gentleshaw Village Hall - walk starts at Buds Rd. Chasewater Country Park - Pool Rd, Brownhills WS8 7NL Clifton Campville - Millennium Green, Clifton Campville B79 OAR Curborough Hall Farm & Countryside Centre - Watery Lane, Lichfield off Eastern Ave WS13 8ES Darwin Hall - Heathcot Place, Lichfield WS13 6RQ. Erasmus Darwin House – Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD Friary Grange Leisure Centre - Friary Grange, Eastern Ave, Lichfield WS137EU The Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6LU King Edward VI Leisure Centre - Kings Hill Rd, Lichfield WS14 9DE. Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. Lichfield City Football Club Brownsfield Rd, Off Eastern Ave, Lichfield WS13 6BT Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412121 Maple Hayes Hall - Abnalls Lane, Lichfield WS13 8BL Middleton Hall – Middleton, Tamworth B78 2AE. Moor Hall Hotel & Spa - Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks B75 6LN. Tel: 0121 308 3751.

National Memorial Arboretum - Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR Netherstowe House - Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6AY. Tel: 01543 254270.

Royal British Legion - Rykneld St, Alrewas, Burton-on-Trent DE13 7AX St Giles Hospice - Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9LH St Mary’s in the Market Square Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG St Michael’s Church - Church St, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6SN Samuel Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Three Spires Shopping Centre - 12 Gresley Row, Lichfield WS13 6JF Well Cottage - 42 St Chad's Rd, Lichfield WS13 7ND

You can forget all your swanky foreign holidays. Living abroad has never appealed to me. I just smile when I think of all those miserable sweltering ex-pats wishing they were in England sitting outside a real traditional pub with swans and ducks on the canal, the occasional chugging boat, and most importantly ‘real beer’!

The Swan, known to all far and wide as the ‘Mucky Duck’, is a friendly, family style pub in a beautiful setting on the crossroads of the Coventry/Trent and Derby canal, which is Fradley Junction. You really ought to rediscover Fradley Junction, ideal for a relaxing day out for dog walkers, ramblers, cyclists and canal boat enthusiasts.

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, Pedigree, Black Sheep, and guest ales such as Timothy Taylor, Woody’s Shropshire Lass and Holden’s Black Country Special. And of course all your popular ciders and lagers. Over 100 guest beers in the past 12 months.

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

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

The Swan at Fradley Canalside eating at its best DE13 7DN Telephone 01283 790330

. . . t a e r o m h c u m So • Easy to find close to the bus station, train station and multi storey car park.

• 30 minutes free parking by Wade Street entrance.

• Superb row of shops established since 1980.

• Bore Street entrance next to The Tudor of Lichfield, established 1510. (Pick up maps of Lichfield at the Tudor Row shops)

The Tudor of Lichfield This tearoom has been a family run business since 1935, and the building dates back to 1510. The magnificent black and white Tudor building is one of the most recognisable places in Lichfield. The Bore Street entrance to Tudor Row is alongside the Tudor of Lichfield building. Morning coffees, lunches and afternoon teas are favourites, alongside Champagne Breakfasts and afternoon teas. They will also delight you with a large range of specialist made chocolates, biscuits and jams. Visit them at Lichfield House, Bore Street, Lichfield WS13 6LL.

“Made in Italy” tops & tunics £29 each or 2 for £50

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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 16 years ago and Paul and his team are open 6 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.

Dresscode The bargain of the century is at Dresscode at 8 Tudor Row. Made in Italy tops and tunics are only £29 each or 2 for £50. See the style in the advertisement in this feature. Also, they have accessories and a superb range of separates and dresses to fit up to size 20.

Open Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm. Visit Dresscode for “Affordable Ladies Fashion”.

Additions of Lichfield Hats are back! Whether you’re looking for Caps, Trilbies, Fedoras, Panamas or big floppy sun hats, you can’t afford to miss out on the great selection to be found at Additions of Lichfield at 12 Tudor Row. When Fiona opened the shop in May 2013 selling hats, sticks, bags, jewellery, men’s grooming products and gifts she had no idea how much the sale of hats would come to dominate the business. With an ever growing range including such brands as Tilley, Christys, Nash, Susquehana and Eureka there is something for everyone.

Hats not your thing? It’s still a treasure trove for gifts, especially with Father’s Day coming up soon.

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

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Tudor Row

guarantee a beaming white smile. Erase UK also offer the famous St Tropez Spray Tan system and Ultrasound Cavitation – a fat removal technology and much more.

Bene Umbra Top quality hairdressing at a fraction of the ‘big salon’ prices is available at Bene Umbra.

Cut & blow dry from £19.95. Gents cut £11.50. Also a full head highlights with cut and blow dry from £49.95. Open 6 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. Selina Taroni is now available for appointments on Mondays & Fridays.

Lichfield Bags 4 U Top quality fashion handbags, satchels, evening bags, purses and scarves at reasonable 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’ the Facebook page – LICHFIED BAGS 4 U, for offers, discounts, competitions etc. Visit the shop at 2 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH or on-line at www.lichfieldbags4u.co.uk Gallery 14 Established 2002 in Sutton Coldfield, Gallery 14 has since grown considerably, selling work worldwide. Come and visit us to see an ever-changing range of work by professional, contemporary artists, covering ceramics, studio glass, bronze, and fine art originals and prints. We also offer bespoke framing at a competitive cost.

In need of a present or just something a bit different, then try our range of bags, scarves and assorted gifts. We hope to see you soon!

Secret Garden Celebrating 25 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, Chandlers Restaurant 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.

Tudor Row Barbers Established 17 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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Tudor Row

Celebrating 25 years service to Lichfield.

Flowers for Weddings, Birthdays, Floral Tributes and much more.

6 Tudor Row, Lichfield WS13 6HH sandra@secretgarden2.wanadoo.co.uk www.secretgardenlichfield.co.uk 01543 418710

Welcoming clients old and new, Bene Umbra offers fabulous quality hairdressing for men and women at a fraction of the 'big' salon prices.

Gents cut... £11.50 Cut and blow dry...from £19.95 Selina Taroni is now available for appointments on Mondays & Fridays.

Full head highlights with cut and blow dry... from £49.95 Appointments are not always necessary but advisable to avoid disappointment.

Call 01543 250676

NOW OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Page 56 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Where there’s a will…Will Aid

Southwell Mott Solicitors Southwell Mott has taken part in Will Aid. Last year we raised nearly £4,500 for charity and this year we will equal that figure.

Southwell Mott offer a full range of legal services which include:• Conveyancing

• Matrimonial • Cohabitee • Employment • Children disputes • Trusts

• Wills • Divorce • Probate • Civil

Southwell Mott 25 Lombard Street, Lichfield, Staffs WS13 6DP. Tel: 01543 256098 Email: ssmallman@southwellmott.co.uk jmott@southwellmott.co.uk

Having your Will written professionally can give you great peace of mind. In November, you can use a local solicitor who has signed up to Will Aid and you can enjoy the added feelgood factor of supporting nine leading UK charities. Instead of paying your solicitor’s fee, you will be invited to make a donation to charity.

Local Solicitors Southwell-Mott of Lombard Street have been serving the people of Lichfield since 1960 and raised over £4000 for the Will Air charity last year. Southwell-Mott is a proactive firm of solicitors, which can also advice on other aspects including Inheritance Tax. The suggested donation is £95 for a basic Will or £150 for a pair of basic mirror Wills. The next campaign will be in November 2014 Further details : Southwell Mott 01543 252102 or http://www.willaid.org.uk for other solicitors around the area.

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I

How to beat Japanese Knotweed and sell your home

f you are thinking of buying or selling a property, the presence of Japanese Knotweed in the vicinity could seriously thwart your plans. Whilst there is no blanket policy for mortgage lenders which prevents them from lending on properties which have Japanese Knotweed, there has been some historical reluctance to lend given the difficulty in treating the weed and the damage it can cause.

Japanese Knotweed was introduced into Britain in the 19th century as an ornamental plant. It is a highly invasive species of plant which can grow a metre in a month and can cause heave below concrete and tarmac, coming up through the resulting cracks and damaging buildings and roads.

The presence of knotweed is often discovered during a residential valuation report and valuers are required by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Red Book Guidance to indicate the presence of “invasive vegetation”.

Japanese Knotweed is one of over 30 plants that it is an offence to “plant or otherwise cause to grow in the wild” under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The police are responsible for investigating offences and each police force has a wildlife liaison officer who can be contacted. The Environment Agency is responsible for ensuring that knotweed waste is managed and disposed of in accordance with the Knotweed Code of Practice.

However, there is no need to let knotweed

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defeat you. Your solicitor can help you come up with a plan of action to buy or sell your property.

The best approach is transparency. If you become aware that there may be knotweed within seven metres of the property, your solicitor should notify your mortgage lender. Your lender will instruct a specialist valuer to assess the risk.

Usually, a mortgage company will only lend if you can demonstrate that you have organised a treatment schedule and show a completion certificate that confirms the weed has been remediated with minimum 10 year guarantee.

You will need to consult the local authority before considering chemical control or physical control.

If the Japanese Knotweed is on a neighbouring property your solicitor can approach the landowner to discuss treatment amicably and advise you on your legal position.

Julie Tomasik Residential property lawyer Ansons

Tamworth Street…

A street of independence

T

he largest selection of independent businesses in one street. All offer something different, starting at the top of Tamworth Street where you probably know the Lee Garden Cantonese Restaurant, going right down to Boots the Chemist at the bottom. There is a unique selection of restaurants with Italian or Chinese dining, pubs and brilliant shops selling everything from menswear, kids wear and women’s fashion to home wares, art, tattoos, beauty products, gifts, paint, spectacles and hair salons.

Paraphernalia Visit Paraphernalia and you will find a wide range of quality handmade solid wood furniture. Made from hardwoods such as oak, sheesham, mango and acacia, all our furniture is built to last and at prices that offer excellent value.

You can shop in store or online at our website www.paraphernaliauk.com. We offer a free local delivery service and for added peace of mind we provide a 7 day full refund return policy.

Furniture is only part of what Paraphernalia is about.We have a huge selection of handcrafted unique gifts and accessories for the home. From quirky lamps to canvas paintings, clocks to photoframes, wooden animal carvings, buddhas, candleholders, trinket boxes and so much more.

So whether you are looking for a beautiful piece of solid wood furniture, something quirky and original for your home, or an unique special gift, come to Paraphernalia and explore for yourself!

Lichfield Factory Specs You can choose from thousands of frame styles many of which are unavailable to high street franchises. The famous brands include D&G, Dior, Guess, Gucci and many more. Because of their low overheads, Lichfield Factory Specs can offer their range of quality frames and lenses at discount prices together with friendly one-to-one service from start to finish. So, put them to the test and call in along with your prescription and save money today.

The Gallery @ Framework Framework has been bringing art in many mediums to Lichfield for over 25 years. Why not take a look round the Gallery for original paintings, prints and sculptures in styles ranging from contemporary to traditional? Currently showing is the new collection of originals by Roz Bell and Kenny Darlington plus Doug Hyde’s latest limited editions and a remarkable collection of bronzes

by Richard Cooper. A first class framing service is also available. See Frameworks’ website, as shown in the advertisement with this feature, for further details. Why not view their fabulous collection yourself at 13 Tamworth Street?

Pizza by Goli On Sunday 15 June, why not treat your Dad to an Italian Father’s Day experience at Pizza by Goli?

Established in 1987, this restaurant welcomes families, couples and friends to enjoy excellent food alongside a range of fine wines and beers and superb customer service. Pizza by Goli is an authentic Italian restaurant with the warm and friendly atmosphere you’d expect in a traditional Italian eatery.

Their pizza dough is made on the premises every day and they only use fresh ingredients for their meals. They have many vegetarian options on the menu and will cater for other dietary requirements on request. For reservations and Father’s Day bookings call 01543 250 916.

NUYU NUYU at 40 Tamworth Street, Lichfield welcomes two new employees Jade and Lisa to the existing super team.

To celebrate this, NUYU is offering 10% off all Nail and Beauty services booked with Jade and Lisa. They are also giving 20% off all hair services with Laura. NUYU have an exciting new product - Halo Hair Extensions exclusive to NUYU in Lichfield and surrounding areas.

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Tamworth Street

email: lichfieldfactoryspecs@hotmail.co.uk

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Tamworth Street

Dolly & Joe's are an independent family owned business who have a unique selection of Country Home products and some unusual Vintage Collectables. We have a wide range of these items available in our shop.

We also have a fantastic range of restored furniture. Many of our items of furniture have been lovingly hand painted using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™. We are also very pleased and proud to be an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ Stockist.

We love Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ so much that we also offer workshops at Dolly & Joe's to help you get the best out of your painting experience. If you are interested visit our Workshop page.

We pride ourselves in having that 'something a little bit different' and unusual that will look lovely in your home. Of course quite a few of the things we sell, certainly in the shop are one off's and may not be made available again until we can find them. If you cannot see something you have previously seen on our website or at the shop or indeed you think we may be able to source it for you then please contact us and we will see what we can do.

Dolly & Joe's have a lovely shop that is in the historical city of Lichfield. You can find us at 41 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JW. We are situated in a gorgeous old building and are part of a very close trading community.

We have lots of fantastic hand painted furniture all complimented with gifts and accessories. All our hand painted furniture is in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™. Many of these are 'one off's' and are very individual.

We really look forward to seeing you and if you have travelled far then we would be happy to give you a cup of tea or coffee.

www.dollyandjoes.com www.facebook.com/DollyandJoes

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Bijou Bijou At No.15 is well into its 2nd year of trading now & has established itself as one of the quirkiest & most stylish boutiques in the region.

With its unusual & innovative use of upcycling to create shelving & hanging space it can only be described as a playground for fashion conscious individuals.

Many brands are found here including their own in-house label Bijou Boudoir.

Looking for an outfit for a special occasion? Why not arrange an appointment to speak with the designer herself by calling 01543 411201.

Mooch Kids We have just celebrated our 5th Anniversary with the opening of our NEW toy department, with a large selection of traditional wooden activity toys, which includes a Pirate Ship, Garage, Cars, Dolls Houses, Kitchen Sets and Play Food.

We also have a new loyalty scheme, simply pick up a card in store and collect a stamp each time you shop.

June competition win an Ever Earth Wooden Dolls House or Workbench simply visit www.facebook.com/moochkids

House of Minster The shop that thinks it's a Department Store, that's the House of Minster. It's because this shop is deceptively and surprisingly spacious. A very special place and if you want something different the staff are waiting to help and advise you.

Specialising in personal service and individual consultations, House of Minster caters for all budgets.

There really is something for everybody. Check out the regular special offers in both the shop and salon. There are a wide range of treatments by highly trained therapists. An extensive range of gift ideas for Father’s Day are available, including shaving bowls, brushes, mirrors, manicure sets and Gentlemens fragrances.

Find all this at 26, Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ.

Tamworth Street

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William Henwood Friends Group, Janet Leytham, Cllr David Leytham and Katy Humpage

Max Blades

Fun-filled Victorian May Day

B

eacon Park's Victorian May Day event on Monday 5 May was a big success with hundreds of people enjoying the vintage activities on offer.

The sun shone on Beacon Park’s Victorian May Day event, and lots of people enjoyed having a go at dancing round the maypole, croquet, hoopla, and a coconut shy.

Children also decorated handmade cones to hold real spring flowers thanks to park volunteers, Dorothy Round, Christine Creffield and Jan Leytham. Another highlight was a traditional Punch and Judy show, sponsored by Chandlers Bistro.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “Beacon Park was packed over the Bank Holiday weekend, and the Victorian May Day event was especially busy. It was a chance to celebrate May Day in a traditional way, reviving pastimes for the whole family to enjoy.

“Well done to everyone involved in making the event such a success and our thanks to all our volunteers on the day, as well as to Chandlers Café, which contributed to the marvellous Punch and Judy show, and to Decades Vintage Boutique, which provided the Victorian costumes that really added to the vintage feel. We’d also like to thank Central England Co-operative for donating the flowers and to Secret Garden for their help. ” To find out more about what is available at Beacon Park, including future events, please visit www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk or follow the Friends of Lichfield Historic Parks on www.facebook.com/FoLHP

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Getting Ready for School

Catherine Harvey - Footsteps Nursery and Preschool

A

s we prepare to say a fond farewell to our school leavers - starting “big school” in September - we reflect on how far they have come. This really brings home the importance of our role as practitioners in an early years setting, supporting young children in their Journey of Discovery.

I’m sure many of you with children due to start school in September nervously opened your letter or email confirming school places.

Worrying “have we been given our preferred school?” and a little anxious at the very prospect of your child making the transition.

After all, they are still very young, it is only natural to wonder if they are ready for this next step.

Early Years is an incredibly important

platform to build an education upon, the skills that children arrive with in Reception class can have a significant impact on their educational achievements. Much has been written about `school readiness` a term which has been bandied about by various politicians when discussing their desire to raise attainment and narrow the ever widening achievement gap in schools.

Ofsted commissioned a report to help us understand the terminology ‘Are you ready – Good practice in school readiness’. This document states that “too many children start school without the range of skills they need” and “the quality of a child’s early experiences is vital for their future success”. But there is much debate about what school readiness is - Ofsted needed a 31 page report to attempt to explain it - and if you include the differences of summer born to winter born children the debate widens even further.

At Footsteps we understand our role and take the job of preparing our pre-school leavers very seriously, whilst recognising that all children are individuals. Young children have to be interested and have fun whilst learning as well as working towards the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) outcomes.

Confidence is the underpinning skill required when met with new situations, this is true even as adults. A confident child will be able to ask

their teacher for support, be happy to listen and ask questions, notice what is happening in the world around them. Most of all they will have the physical and emotional skills to cope with new situations as they arise.

We work in close partnership with local schools to support our children’s transition, inviting reception teachers to visit and take part in our forest school and cookery clubs. By seeing the wide range of skills our preschoolers have developed we hope to ensure their new teachers have the same high expectations of our children as we do.

Early years practitioners and parents play an incredibly important role in preparing children for school but maybe we shouldn`t be asking “are our children ready for school” but rather “is the school well prepared and ready for our children?”

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Gifts to make any Dad Smile this Fathers Day

O

ne of the great things about shopping in Lichfield is the range of stores that can be found. I spent a happy hour shopping for Father’s Day presents recently, and these are just a few of the lovely gifts I came across. They’re sure to make any Dad smile. (Joss – Deputy Ed).

1 & 2.Dalalo Rhodium Plated Cufflinks. Prices range from £17.95 to £49.95.

Available from Michael’s Menswear.

3.Panama Hat. In three styles – classic, wide-brim and drop-brim. Made by Olney of Luton. £49.95. Available from Michael’s Menswear.

4.Viyella socks - £4.95. Available from Michael’s Menswear.

5.Rocolo Platinum shirts £49.95. Available from Michaels’ Menswear.

6.From left: Rotary leather strap watch - £225, Seiko £395, Seiko Red Arrows Eco Drive - £499, Seiko Eco Drive £299. Available from City Jewellers.

7.Omega Speedmaster RRP £2,880 – this pre-owned example £1,995 and Longines Conquest Automatic RRP £1,730 – this pre-owned example £995.

Available from City Jewellers.

8.Rolex Submariner RRP £5,700 – this pre-owned example £5,500 and Rolex Explorer II RRP £5,350 – this pre-owned example £3,995. Available from City Jewellers 9.Staffordshire Knot 9ct gold cufflinks £285. Available from City Jewellers.

10.Cross platinum pen £120. Available from City Jewellers.

11.Thorntons Continental £6 (until the end of June), Thorntons Classics £12, Thorntons Beer Mug Plaque £5, Thorntons ‘I Love Dad’ £3. Available from Thorntons.

12.Parker Safety Razors £69 and £76.99. Available from Additions of Lichfield 13.Games Compendium £26. Available from Additions of Lichfield.

14.Shaving range – various prices. Available from Additions of Lichfield.

15.Fisherman’s hip flask - £18. Available from Additions of Lichfield.

Stockists:- City Jewellers. 39 Market Street. www.cityjewellers.co.uk Michael’s Menswear. 12B Market Street. Thorntons. 5 Bakers Lane, Three Spires Shopping Centre. www.thorntons.co.uk. Additions of Lichfield. Tudor Row, Wade Street www.additions-lichfield.co.uk

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y t i VIEW C The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - June 2014

Grants to local organisations

Councillor Terry Finn, Leader of the Council

One of the areas which makes our city unique is the variety of traditional events for the community which we organise each year: from the Shrovetide Pancake Races and Court of Arraye, through to the Samuel Johnson Birthday celebrations and the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. The next key event in this annual calendar is the Sheriff’s Ride which this year will be held on Saturday, 6 September.

The Annual Meeting of the Council was held on 12 May where a new Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Sheriff were appointed and I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the retiring civic team for their tremendous work on behalf of the City during their year in Office; and wish the new office holders every good wish for an interesting and enjoyable year ahead.

Our Annual Town (electors) meeting was held on 21 May at which our annual report was presented covering the work of the Council over the past year.

This annual report gives a clear overview of the range of services which the City Council provides, from grounds maintenance to the markets and community halls; the Guildhall and civic events like St George’s Court and the Sheriff’s Ride; through to Christmas Lights, Twinning and of course the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Copies are available from the City Council’s offices, or can be downloaded from our website page www.lichfield.gov.uk/downloads

Each year the City Council awards grants to support the invaluable work carried out by local voluntary groups, societies and clubs operating in the City.

The City Council has provided £25,405 in general grants to local organisations for 2014/15, which have been awarded to 47 separate groups to help their work in the City. Cheques were presented by the Mayor, Councillor Mrs Norma Bacon, at the City's Annual Town Meeting on 21 May. "This city benefits enormously from the work of a great many local organisations

and voluntary groups," said the Mayor, "and we are delighted to provide some grant funding to support and help them in their excellent work.”

Forms for the 2015 grants round will be available from the City Council’s offices or off our website from October 2014 and applications must be submitted by 9th January 2015.

Civic guests and dignitaries gathered at the Guildhall on 12 May for Lichfield City Council's annual meeting, at which the new Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Sheriff were elected for the ensuing year.

The new Mayor is Mrs Norma Bacon.

Norma has served on the City Council for 15 years, and represents the Curborough ward. She is no stranger to civic office having previously been Mayor in 2005, and Sheriff in 2008. Norma is also a member of Lichfield District Council. Her husband, Brian, will be the Mayor's Consort.

The new Deputy Mayor is Andy Smith, who represents the Leomansley Ward and has been a City and District councillor for 3 years. His wife, Sallyanne, will be the Deputy Mayor's Lady.

Completing the civic team is Bob Awty, last year's Mayor, who now becomes

Sheriff of the City. He was born and bred in Lichfield and has been a City and District councillor since 2003. His wife, Eileen, will be the Sheriff's Lady.

The evening concluded with the Mayor's Banquet, at which the Dean, the Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, gave the traditional toast to "Church and State, Weal and Worship".

During her year in office, the Mayor The 2014/15 Civic Team – the Mayor, Councillor Mrs Norma Bacon will support the Stroke Association and Love Lichfield Councillor Mrs Norma Bacon, with the Fund; whilst Sheriff, Councillor Robert Deputy Mayor, Councillor Andrew Smith Awty has nominated Friends2Friends as (right); and Sheriff, Councillor Robert Awty his charity. They will jointly host a Fashion Show in October, a Charity Dinner Dance future editions of this newsletter. The in November, a festive afternoon tea and City Council’s Civic Administrator Kate flower arranging event in December, and Durrant and she can be contacted on tel: 01543 309854, or by e-mail a Quiz Night in the New Year. kate.durrant@lichfield.gov.uk.

More information on these events will be published nearer the time and in

Civic Team for 2014/15

Representatives from some of the organisations collecting their grant cheques on 21 May 2014

Lichfield Town Crier Competition

On Saturday 5th July Town Criers from all over Britain will gather to compete in the second Lichfield Town Criers’ Competition.

Held over two rounds during the morning and afternoon, the criers will represent their towns and cities. Our own award winning Town Crier, Ken Knowles, will be master of ceremonies and therefore not be competing.

The morning round allows the criers to proclaim about their home cities and towns, and the afternoon cry will focus on the events and stories of World War I. Criers have only 100 to 125 words to impress the judges and a close competition is expected.

The competition will take place at Speaker’s Corner, Dam Street and is free to

spectators; however the criers will be seen around Lichfield and the Festival Market, throughout the day.

For more information call Kate Durrant 01543 309854

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CityVIEW

Coming soon at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - June 2014

From exhibitions to creative workshops for all ages, the Birthplace Museum has something to offer the whole city this Summer.

Family Craft Workshop

Saturday 7th June, 10.30am Create an amazing model garden to take home together in this imaginative craft session. £3.50, family ticket £10 (2 adults & 3 children), booking essential

Lines of Beauty

From Saturday 21st June. Daily 10.30am – 4.30pm Lichfield Calligraphers bring words to life in an exhibition of works displayed around the beautiful historic building. Free entry, donations welcome

Summer Fun at Sam’s House

Every Thursday in August, 10.30am – 1.30pm Drop-in arts and crafts fun and games throughout the holiday. A different activity every week. £2, just drop-in

Art Workshops

Third Tuesday of every month, 6.30pm Small and friendly sessions led by award-winning local artist Carole Collier, beginners very welcome. £10 including all materials and refreshments, booking essential

Birthplace Book Club

First Wednesday of every month, 1pm Friendly and informal group reading along with Radio 4’s Book Club show, new members always welcome. Free entry, donations welcome

Bookworms United!

Fortnightly Saturdays, 10.30am Read, create and have fun in our book and activity club for 7-11 year olds £4 including books, discounts available for families, booking essential For more details or to make a booking: call: 01543 264 972 write: sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk click: www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk visit: on the corner of the market square

MARKETS

Markets are held on the Market Square on every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, with a Farmers' Market held on the first Thursday of each month.

The Market Square is also available for hire on a commercial or charitable basis on non-market days and more details can be obtained from the Markets Officer, Rachel Clive. Tel: 01543 309853. e-mail: rachel.clive@lichfield.gov.uk

Lichfield Food Festival 2014

“Local and regional chefs will be cooking up a storm this summer at Lichfield’s free entry food festival, which will descend on the city on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August 2014.

The organisers behind Lichfield Food Festival are inviting food lovers to join them in the City for a weekend that celebrates local food producers, top local chefs and the city’s food venues.

The programme is set to feature cookery demonstrations by chefs, food stalls throughout the city as part of the Lichfield Food Festival Market, a celebration of local brewing, demonstrations of top kitchen equipment brands, a baking competition, a children’s cupcake hunt and much more”.

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Sheriff’s Ride

Saturday, 6 September

This unique tradition dates from Queen Mary’s Charter of 1553 in which Lichfield was separated from Staffordshire and made a ‘City and County’ with a right to appoint its own Sheriff. The Charter commanded the Sheriff to make a complete perambulation of the City boundary each September on the Saturday nearest to 8 September; and this tradition has been upheld for over 450 years.

The guided route follows a well-established course via bridle ways, private land and some road sections is approximately 22 miles, with refreshment breaks at venues along the way. The Ride returns to the city, via the Cathedral Close at approximately 6.30pm. The Ride is open to all competent riders over the age of 16 on the day of the ride.

The entry fee is £30. For more information, or to register please contact Kate Durrant at Lichfield City Council, Donegal House, Bore Street, WS13 6LU. Tel: 01543 309854 e-mail kate.durrant@lichfield.gov.uk.

TWINNING NEWS

From 10th to 13th June we will be welcoming a group of 27 (21 students aged between 8 and 10 years, plus 6 adults) from the école Chantegrillet primary school in Sainte-Foy who will stay in Lichfield. It is their first visit to our city and it will mark the start of a new twinning partnership with Lichfield’s Charnwood Primary school where the French group will spend an afternoon.

Later in the year between 3 and 6 October 2014, Lichfield will be welcoming 120 guests from our twin towns of Limburg an der Lahn in Germany and Sainte Foy-lès-Lyon in France as the City takes its turn to host the twinning weekend Lichfield City was twinned with both Limburg in Germany and Sainte Foy in France in 1992, and every two years one of the three members of this Ring Twinning arrangement hosts a visit for the other members.

Over the weekend a programme of free public events is planned beginning with a civic welcoming ceremony on the Market Square at 10.30am and entertainment continuing until 3.15pm.

Amongst several exciting events being planned are a Contemporary Art exhibition by twin town artists, on display over the weekend at Emporium Gallery and Art College; a literature festival; free drawing and creativity workshops, and an exhibition and photographic archives illustrating the history of Lichfield.

Sophie Bishop, the City Council’s Twinning Officer and co-ordinator of the twinning visit said: “We are looking forward to welcoming our friends from our twin towns to Lichfield, and I would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those involved in the preparations for the weekend. Their hard work and willingness to become involved is very much appreciated.”

“Special thanks are also extended to all of our host families who will kindly open their homes to our guests. It is through their hospitality that we will be able to accommodate such a large number of guests. We hope that our visitors and everyone involved in the weekend will enjoy a most memorable visit.”

If you or your organisation would be interested in creating new exchanges with our French and German twin towns, please contact the Lichfield City twinning officer, Mrs Sophie Bishop by email at Sophie.bishop@lichfield.gov.uk, or by calling 01543 309857, or visit the Facebook page: Lichfield-Twinning.

CityVIEW

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - June 2014

A wedding at the Guildhall (Photograph courtesy of Curtis & Jenson)

Weddings at the Guildhall

Located in Bore Street in the heart of the City, the Guildhall is a beautiful historic building and is a magnificent setting for civil ceremonies, receptions and other celebrations. Two rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies: The main hall has oak panelling and a high beamed roof giving a fine mediaeval appearance, and can accommodate up to 160 guests; and the Guildroom, on the ground floor, has paneled walls and timber ceiling and can seat up to 70 guests.

A number of smaller rooms are also available to hire, and are ideal for conferences, seminars or small meetings.

For more information, to enquire over availability, or to arrange a viewing please contact Sarah Wallace at Lichfield City Council. Tel: 01543 309850 or e-mail: sarah.wallace@lichfield.gov.uk

OUR WEBSITE: www.lichfield.gov.uk

Have you visited the City Council’s website recently? It offers a wealth of information about the work of the City Council; including details of all Council meetings and associated documents. In addition it contains useful information about the City, its history, festivals and major events, and its many unique customs and traditions.

The right Council…

Lichfield City Council is the ‘parish’ authority for the City and is the smallest of the three councils serving the City area. Within the City we deal with local matters such as the markets, maintenance of open spaces and churchyards, civic and mayoral events, the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and public lettings of the Guildhall.

Lichfield District Council (Tel: 01543 308000) is the larger local authority dealing with such matters as planning, environmental health, refuse collection, housing, car parking, arts and tourism, and leisure services.

Staffordshire County Council (Tel: 0300 111 8000) is the responsible authority for wider services such as Education, Social Services and Highways.

Public Participation

City Council meetings are held in the Guildhall, Bore Street. Dates and times of meetings can be found on the notice-board outside the Guildhall, and on the City Council's website at www.lichfield.gov.uk Meetings are open to the public, with public participation sessions held at full Council and at the Planning Committee.

Advance notice needs to be given to the Council of the subject matter of each question, and any person wishing to speak must contact the Council Offices at Donegal House, Bore Street (next to the Guildhall) before NOON on the day of the meeting.

Thursday, 5 June

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Thursday, 26 June

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Tuesday, 24 June Thursday, 17 July

Tuesday, 22 July

Thursday, 7 August

Thursday, 28 August

6.30pm 6.30pm

6.30pm 6.30pm

6.30pm

COUNCIL (year-end accounts)

Planning Applications Committee COUNCIL

Planning Applications Committee

Planning Applications Committee Page 71

Twinning host families needed

H

ost families are being sought who would be willing to welcome visitors from Lichfield twin towns to stay in their home over the weekend of Friday 3 to Monday 6 October.

This is the “Twinning Weekend” which Lichfield hosts every 6 years, and there will be 60 visitors arriving from Limburg in Germany, and 60 from Sainte Foy in France. An important aspect of the twinning is that people stay in local homes so that they develop friendship links and understanding. There is no payment, but there is always the opportunity for you in turn to visit a family in Limburg or Sainte Foy in future years.

Anyone interested is asked to contact Lichfield City Council on 01543 250011 or download the host family form from the Twinning Page of the website www.lichfield.gov.uk/twinning.ihtml Local residents will be able to share with visitors in a range of free events and entertainment on the Market Square and around the City, and a large number of local societies and organisations will also be participating in the weekend’s festivities. More details are available on the website link.

Should've gone to Cake Sale

Specsavers in Marketplace Lichfield raised over £300 in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust when they held a very successful Cake Sale on Saturday 24 May. All cakes were baked by Specsavers' staff and friends, and were truly delicious (ed).

Thorntons Treat Competition

Congratulations to Leona Weaver of Heath Hayes, winner of a box of Thorntons Irresistables Belgian Truffles.

Grant support

by Lichfield City Council

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t the Annual Town Meeting hosted by Lichfield City Council held on the 21st May, Colin Ablitt of the Lichfield Festival, was very pleased to receive a ‘substantial’ cheque from the Mayor, Cllr Norma Bacon, as a grant towards the costs of staging the Lichfield Festival in July of this year.

Every year the festival is dependent on a number of organisations and charities in order to bring the prestigious event to the City.

Tony Bateman, chairman of the Lichfield Festival commented: “The festival brings enormous pleasure to thousands of people as well as bringing a substantial number of visitors to Lichfield and we are very pleased that the benefits to Lichfield are recognised by the various grant funding and commercial sponsors who help the event to go ahead.”

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Family Craft Workshops in June

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ummer is just around the corner and the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is celebrating with a garden-themed craft workshop on Saturday June 7th. Families can create a miniature masterpiece together in this imaginative hands-on session led by artist Carole Collier. Inspired by the Georgian’s love of grand landscaped gardens, visitors will create a model garden using everyday materials with stunning results. The workshop is £3.50 per place, or a family ticket costs £10 for two adults and up to three children. Places are limited so advance booking is essential. As well as the special workshop, Carole will also be leading her popular

SPEAK FOR YOURSELF!

The Launch of Lichfield International Speaker UK is on 5th June at the Holiday Inn Wall Island WS13 00P from 7.15 - 9.30pm refreshments provided. This is your opportunity to learn effective communication and leadership skills.

Benefits include: an immeasurable growth in confidence; improved interaction and relationship building; motivation techniques and so much more.

Find out more www.lichfield-powertalk.co.uk lorna@lornasheldon.com call Lorna 07860 806381

monthly adult Art Workshop at the Birthplace on Tuesday 17th June at 6.30pm.Tickets are £10, with all materials provided.

Visitors throughout the month can enjoy a look around the Museum bookshop, and from 21st June the whole building will come to life with the beautiful works of Lichfield Calligraphers, with their exhibition ‘Lines of Beauty’ displayed throughout the Grade I listed building. The exhibition is open from 10.30am – 4.30pm every day of the week, entrance is free of charge but donations are welcome To book a place on the workshop call 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or pop into the Museum on the corner of the Market Square. For more information visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk.

Don’t miss!

Lichfield’s most popular Trade Show

Brownie Conga Chain

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arly morning shoppers at Morrisons Supermarket in Lichfield were in for a surprise on Saturday 26th April at 8.00 am, when a group of girls from 5th Lichfield (St Chad’s) Brownies performed a Conga chain around the aisles of the store.

Brown Owl, Sylvia Smetham with Leaders Janine Hill and Faye Jenkins led the girls as they danced between the aisles whilst shoppers, perplexed at first, joined in waving and applauding them on their way.

The Management and staff at Morrisons joined the chain which did two laps of the store.

Brown Owl, Sylvia expressed her thanks to the Management and Staff for enabling 5th Lichfield Brownies to complete one of their Brownie Birthday Challenges, marking the 100th Anniversary of the Brownie Movement. This will count towards the Units total of 100 challenges to celebrate this Anniversary.

Refreshments provided 7.30am to 5.30pm

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Gazette Woman Spring Bride

Jessica and Aaron were married on Friday 18th April at the Ramada hotel. Jess is a Service Coordinator and Aaron is a Tree Surgeon. They honeymooned in Costa Blanca. Pink'd Up also photographed the bride's sister's wedding in 2011 and was privileged to be chosen to do Jess's wedding too.

FUNDRAISING SUMMER FETE

Curborough Community Centre Reynolds Close, Lichfield Saturday July 19 from 12 – 6pm (All welcome) Small admission fee in aid of Curborough Community Centre and North Lichfield Initiative OPENED BY CHLOE WHITELAW – winner of Lichfield’s Got Talent.

Attractions include: Birds of Prey; Face Painting; Bouncy Castle; Police/Ambulance/ Fire services; Staffs Regiment; Pop-corn; Candy Floss; Refreshments; Barbeque; Live Music

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Now that is different!

Fortescues opens in the heart of Lichfield

Located right in the Marketplace next to Lloyds bank, Fortescues is the newest introduction to Lichfield.

It is an exquisitely and very tastefully decorated emporium with an interior that is both light and spacious. This attractive shop frontage features full-height windows that beckon you inside. This beautiful Georgian building is deceptively large, with three show rooms, all charmingly fitted out.

In many ways you would expect that the shop always looked like this, but that could not be further from the truth. Display cabinets are constructed in a Georgian design and specially built to fit the period of the building, with its elegant high ceilings. The Fortescues range is chic and enviably stylish and added to great customer service and a relaxing ambience, shoppers will soon find that it ‘feels like home’.

This is a family business and Fortescues is a long established French name, which translates as ‘strong shield’. Helen and Ian Fortescue, along with daughters Charlotte and Emily are delivering the traditional values of high quality coupled with a real pleasure in helping people.

There is something for all ages at Fortescues – and a certain style described as ‘classical lady’ – that ranges from casual to occasion wear. The emphasis is on beautiful clothes that fit perfectly and there is a good selection of styles and sizes available. The Pretty Dress Company is an English design house that is typical of the style that Fortescue’s stock. Other notable names are Vilagallo (Spanish chic), Toggi (known to ladies in the equestrian world) and Gardeur jeans.

Charlotte has a background in fashion-retail with some notable major high street businesses, and she has a degree in fashion design which has given her a keen eye for style. She has previously worked for ladies fashion designer David Nieper of Leicester as well as Richard Anderson the Savile Row tailors. Her sister Emily has a background in accountancy and finance, and is very much involved with the business.

Helen Fortescue has a wealth of experience with interiors having worked in the antiques business for many years, and you can see an abundance of delightful mirrors, chandeliers and other objet d’art and ephemera, which are also for sale in the shop.

All-in-all the addition of Fortescues to the mix of new Lichfield businesses will enrich the offering of the City, making it a ’must-visit’ shopping destination.

Open : Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm Fortesques 2 Dam Street, Lichfield WS13 6AA 01543 897090 See us on Facebook

Seafolly Mod Club swimsuit £82 – available from asos.com Aragon embroidered maxi dress £69 - available from monsoon.com

ASOS shell top £30 – available from asos.com

By Joss Musgrove Knibb ASOS high waist crop trousers £22 – available from asos.com

See by Chloe linen jacket £388 – available from chloe.com

Ulani Schiffly dress £39 – available from monsoon.co.uk

Rick Owens blue silk georgette wide leg trousers £570 – available from harveynichols.com

Hermes Concours d’etriers pareo £365 – available from hermes.com

A Part of Me

A Part of Me’ is the highly anticipated follow up novel from Lichfield Author Anouska Knight, creator of the 2013 bestseller Since You’ve Been Gone, and winner of ITV Lorraine’s Racy Reads competition. This second book is tipped to be one of this summer’s hottest reads.

Anouska Knight is a fresh and funny voice in contemporary British women’s fiction, writing emotional novels that centre on real issues. Anouska grew up in Rugeley, but now lives with her family in Lichfield.

The story follows Amy and her partner James who have finally been accepted into the adoption process. When a dark secret changes everything, Amy needs to decide whether to follow her heart or her dream of motherhood. At times sad, and other times laugh-out-loud funny, A Part Of Me tackles issues that many women will relate to, with characters you’ll love.

Anouska’s warm story-telling, sassy humour and sensitive take on tricky topics have already garnered an impressive group

of fans, including Victoria Fox, Jenny Colgan, Lorraine Kelly and Jackie Collins, who described Anouska as “a writer who is going to do great things”.

Racy Reads, a nationwide competition featured on ITV’s Lorraine programme at the beginning of 2013, set out to find the latest writer of racy romantic fiction.

Despite fierce competition from over two thousand entries, Anouska’s manuscript for Since You’ve Been Gone, stood out for its emotional observation and relatable characters. The prize, awarded in February 2013, included a contract with leading romantic fiction publisher, Mills & Boon.

A Part of Me is available in all good retailers from 20th June 2014, RRP £7.99, in B format paperback and eBook www.millsandboon.co.uk

WIN WIN WIN

We have a copy of ‘A Part of Me’ to give away to two lucky readers in our ‘A Part of Me’ competition. To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question.

Q. ‘A

Part of Me’ is the follow up novel to Anouska’s first book...

A. B. C.

Since You’ve Been Gone A Stitch in Time We’ll Meet Again.

To enter, send your name, answer and contact details to A Part of Me Competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of 10th July 2014.

Francesco Group Lichfield Walk the Walk

On May 10th Alice Reeve, Owner and and Hollie Swindon, Stylist at The Francesco Group, Lichfield, walked through the night for charity as part of the 17th Moon Walk London. The Moon Walk saw over 15,000 women take part in this famous moonlit 25 mile marathon, united in the goal of raising money and awareness for vital breast cancer causes. Walkers took part wearing bras decorated in a ‘rock a billy’ style.

The Moon Walk London is organised by health Charity Walk the Walk Worldwide; this, their flagship event raised in excess of £5.6 million in 2013 alone.

Alice added: “We completed the walk in 8 hours and we had lots of blisters by the end. It was a very cold night so we had to wrap up and we got very tired at around 4am. We’ve raised over £1,600 with more still coming in. Thank you to all of the wonderful individuals, groups and businesses who have supported us, including Lichfield Ladies Tangle who donated a cheque for £250.

“We could not have done it without the support of our wonderful clients. We’ve had a collection bucket in the salon for several weeks and our clients have been so generous. They’re amazing.”

To find out more about how the money is used and other Walk the Walk Challenges, visit the website walkthewalk.org Page 77

GAZETTE expert services

Laura's Animal and Equine Care

LARGE & SMALL - I LOVE AND CARE FOR THEM ALL. FULLY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED - HND IN ANIMAL CARE AND MANAGEMENT

07888 736465

Fully insured personalised pet care service I look after your pet while you are at work, out for the day or on holiday. Dog walking - equine care small animal boarding - pet visits (from mice to horses & everything in between).

Sales Vacancy Magazine Advertisement

Did you enjoy our magazine? Do you think you have what it takes to sell advertising for us?

We currently have two wellloved publications, Chase Gazette and Lichfield Gazette, and we are looking to receive applications from candidates who would like to join us.

Are you the sort of person who can easily converse with our potential and regular advertisers, and demonstrate a mature, creative and honest attitude?

The role requires the ability

to communicate with business people at all levels as well as work to given deadlines.

Hours and salary are negotiable and an immediate start is available.

Some newspaper ad sales or similar previous experience would be an advantage, but some training on the job can be arranged.

The successful candidate should be a car owner with a

clean driving licence as the role calls for constant access to retailers and services throughout this area. Some telephone sales will be involved in the sales process.

If this sounds like the kind of sales position you are looking for, why not let us know a little about yourself by sending an email in the first instance with a short summary of your career to date.

Gazette contacts G AZETTE MAGAZINE PO Box 54 14, Lichfie ld, WS1 4 4EZ

www.lichfieldgaze tte.co.uk

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 Marie 07548 682576 Advertising

Vic McClure 07872 165695

vic@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Steve Brown 07740 166497

steve@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Rebecca Hill 07535 634794 rebecca.lichfieldgazette@gmail.com National Sales David Baker 01889 577891 david@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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GAZETTE expert services

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