Lichfield Gazette December 2012

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 45

MP Visits ‘Open Door of Hope’ O

n 23rd November Michael Fabricant MP met Peter Hitchman and Mike Wetson, members of the Lichfield community group Open Door of Hope. The group was established to fill the needs of mental health service users in the Lichfield and surrounding areas.

The group first started on 3rd October 2011 with six members attending and now has 92. They meet three times a week in Lichfield Methodist church to play Bingo or cards and take part in a quiz. They also regularly host guest speakers whose special interests range from health to science in addition to organising many day trips for their members.

Mike Wetson one of the original members commented: “After nearly forty years being treated by the NHS I decided it was time to give something back. That is why I created this facility to provide a meeting place for fellow like sufferers. The group welcomed the opportunity to meet Michael Fabricant to help lift its profile and hope this will encourage even more members......We would like to thank Michael Fabricant for his interest and advice.”

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Michael Fabricant said: “It was a real pleasure to meet Mike Wetson, the former Chairman and now Secretary of Open Door of Hope and Peter Hitchman, their new Chairman and discuss the work of Open Doors and talk about my own work as an MP. “Around one-third of the population will suffer mental health problems during the course of a life-time and it is great to see an organisation such as this providing such effective self-help.

No-one should be embarrassed by mental illness and by getting together with fellow sufferers, the solidarity boosts confidence. The Group also sounds like good fun.”

For more information on Open Door of Hope email mikewetson@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07779 980741.

Mike Wetson, Michael Fabricant, and Peter Hitchman.

Page 3

Lichfield

G azette

December 2012

contents 6

Netherstowe House competition

12

Baby and Toddler competition winners

35

Market Street Feature

42

Win tickets to the UK’s biggest fashion and beauty event – Clothes Show Live!

47

Tudor Row Feature

50

Gazette Woman

55

Dining Out

59

What’s On

FRONT COVER

BY ROBERT YARDLEY

Win lunch for two at Netherstowe House page 6

contributors • • • • •

Caz Jones Laura Bowcutt PG Mitchell Robert Yardley John Crowe

• • • •

Joss Musgrove Knibb David Wood Dan Mitchell John Gallagher

contact the Gazette see page 62 ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE Lichfield Gazette is your local monthly magazine distributed to more than 17,500 homes and businesses in and around Lichfield. Distribution area covers Lichfield City, Alrewas, Fradley, Shenstone, Hammerwich, Kings Bromley, Longdon, Whittington, Armitage & Handsacre A limited number of the Lichfield Gazette are available and can be purchased at 90p from the Heritage Centre at St Mary’s in the Market Place. All proceeds go to charity.

We do not seek to sensationalise but to inform and entertain our readers.

The views expressed in this magazine are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers. Lichfield Gazette magazine is not a franchise or connected with any other publication.

Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Editor’s Notes A time of the signs

A Church is a wonderful place at Christmastime. When I was a lad in the late sixties I remember going to the Christmas Eve Midnight Service that was filled with a good sized congregation, quite a few of which were full of winter fuel and who had wandered in for somewhere to go after closing time and to bellow out a few carols. Following that irreverent evening a sign appeared in the vestibule proclaiming “Parishioners are reminded that the box marked ‘For The Sick’ is for money contributions only.”

However well meaning, I love those notices that have unintentional double meanings.

Here are a few examples of what I mean: "For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs;" "Next Thursday will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get;" and finally, "Ladies Slimmer's Group will hold future meetings in the Fellowship Hall on Wednesdays at 7 pm. Please use large double door at the side entrance."

I have visited nearly all the churches in the area and we are blessed with some lovely ones, but it is the people who make up those churches that really make them special, all united in one common purpose at this time of year. Don't forget the true meaning of Christmas and have yourself a very merry one!

Yours truly Paul Oakley Editor P.S The January/February edition will be out on Jan 21st. See you then.

Fifth Generation Starts at Lichfield Cutlery Firm

W

orld famous cutlery firm Arthur Price is delighted to announce that the fifth generation of the family-owned firm has joined the company.

Like his father (and current CEO) Simon, James (aged 23) has joined as an apprentice and starts as a Distribution Assistant in the warehouse.

Five consecutive generations of the Price family have worked for the Lichfield-based cutlery manufacturing firm. The list of iconic brands and people who use Arthur Price includes Concorde, QE11, Titanic, the Savoy Hotel, the Royal Family and even the Beckhams plus many more, making the Lichfield based firm a byword for the finest cutlery.

The company celebrated its 110th birthday in October 2012 but in recent years it has seen many changes at the dinner table including a changing palette, a rise in fast food, a drop in ‘family dinner table meals’ and a desire for more contemporary and ‘affordable’ products. Arthur Price found that it must continue to produce high quality gifts for wedding presents etc, and also design (with the same quality values) a more current, attractive and affordable range of gifts to be used for all occasions.

Simon Price, Arthur Price CEO said: “Many people are attracted by our history and it is very humbling to merely be a custodian of this great company. Indeed our strapline ‘Be Part Of The Family’ is most important to me and I think it sums everything up. Arthur Price is a family of people and this is the main reason why the business is getting stronger in these difficult times.

This, together with a broad and robust range of quality products and excellent customer service, means everybody contributes to our success and I know James understands and appreciates this and he will be working hard to learn about this proud company.”

James Price said: “I’m delighted to become the fifth generation Price to work for the family business and to start on the 5th November is fate. Not many companies have the privilege of such longevity, especially in these difficult times, and it is a testament to everybody in the business that we find ourselves in such a unique position. My father has done a fantastic job in changing the business from being simply known for expensive cutlery to a much bigger brand. I hope that for many years to come, the business will allow me to contribute to this amazing British institution.”

James graduated from Sheffield University with a Masters Degree in Marketing and has been honing his skills working in a direct marketing agency.

Local Author Launches New Book

‘To judge rightly of the present, we must oppose it to the past; for all judgment is comparative and, of the future nothing can be known.’ Dr Johnson This November local author Annette Rubery (see pic) launched her new book, Lichfield Then & Now. Our city has witnessed many important events in the history of the British Isles and we are quite rightly proud of our architecture that spans the centuries and our customs and traditions. Lichfield nevertheless remains a modern city where old and new coexist.

Lichfield Then & Now pairs 45 carefully chosen photographs from the city’s archives with 45 contemporary colour versions of the same views, providing a fascinating visual diary of the city’s progress. Compare the old layout of Lichfield’s streets - its shop-fronts, park and pools - with the

Lichfield of today and see for yourself the subtle march of time, even in this most historic of places.

Each pair of photographs is accompanied by an explanatory caption giving a brief history of the place and the key changes that have taken place over the years.

Views include the Cathedral and Close, the Pools, the old coaching inns and pubs, Beacon Place, the Victoria Hospital, the old racecourse stand on Whittington Heath and the Wyrley and Essington Canal amongst others.

Annette is a writer and editor with ten years’ experience in print and online media. She has a PhD in Art History and is also a keen photographer.

James & Simon Price Page 5

GazetteNews

Donate a new toy and support victims of domestic abuse this Christmas F

ollowing the overwhelmingly generous and thoughtful response from the local area to the Lichfield Cathedral Toy Appeal over the last two years, the cathedral has announced that the initiative will return this Christmas. This year all toys will be donated to the Pathway Project that in turn donate them to local families in need who may be victims of domestic abuse this winter.

The Pathway Project was founded by a survivor whose faith led her to want to help other women in a similar situation. They have worked with women and children who suffer domestic abuse since 1993 and during that time have helped thousands of women and children to rebuild their lives and achieve things they could only have dreamed would be Hayley from the Pathway Project and the Dean of Lichfield, the Very Rev’d Adrian Dorber possible, Through a wide range of services, including refuge Appeal and the cathedral gladly welcomes accommodation, floating support, anyone attending to bring a toy along. children’s services, counselling, and This special St. Nicholas service will groups and training, they support families take place on Sunday 9 December at through the trauma and distress of coping 3.30pm and the Dean of Lichfield is with abuse and leaving their homes and asking members of the local community to sometimes everything they possess in attend the service and bring a new toy order to find safety. The support is onalong to support the Pathway Project. going and may be short term, but often If you are not able to attend the can last for up to two years. Pathway also service, but would still like to donate a gift, run a drop in and outreach centre in then toys will be gladly received in Lichfield, the Hope Centre, making help advance either to the Vergers’ office within and support easy to access. the cathedral, or at The Old Stables (next Each year Lichfield Cathedral warmly to Chapters Restaurant) between the invites worshippers to join the community hours of 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday). as the Christmas tree is lit in front of the Please note that new toys are preferred building and prayers are said during the (for ages 0 – 16).

St. Nicholas Service at the West Front. In For more information on the Pathway 2012 this service will also include the Toy Project go to www.pathway-project.co.uk

Some of the toys collected during the 2011 St. Nicholas Service – with children Ben and Harry Lamplugh – Photo: © Lichfield Camera Club Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

LUNCH FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE FIND MINSTER THE CAT! Win a two course lunch for two people (Monday to Thursday) at this prestigious boutique hotel and restaurant.

Time has stood still at this beautifully restored Edwardian House, one time home of two Members of Parliament and originally partly used as a working mill. It is full of period charm and elegance. Enjoy Netherstowe House for yourself and see why everyone is raving about it! Or why not enter our competition and win a delightful meal for yourself and a guest?

Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we need your help to find him.

He might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than 21st December 2012 to ‘Minster The Cat Competition’ PO

L

Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. or by email to minsterthecat@hotmail.co.uk subject "Minster Comp". One entry only please (or disqualified). The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette.

Good luck!!

Minster was on page 48 in the November issue well done to Mr Smout, Cranleigh Way, Lichfield for spotting him.

Local creative firm designs premium bangers

ichfield design firm PHd has recently been involved in the launch of a new range of sausage packs designed for Tesco stores.

Chef & Farmer is a sausage ‘brand’ created by PHd for one of the UK's largest pork product manufacturers. The design team created the packs, point of sale materials and the website. There are 5 different flavour bangers, three of which were launched in October this year.

PHd have commented that it was a great fun project to work on and sales figures for the sausages are reportedly very good.

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GazetteNews

S

Recognising Staffordshire’s cultural volunteers

taffordshire County Council and the Volunteer Centres Staffordshire are urging people to nominate their favourite cultural volunteers for a 2013 Volunteer Staffordshire Award.

The countywide awards will celebrate the invaluable contribution that volunteers make to helping improve life for many people from across Staffordshire and recognise those individuals that give up their time and skills for a good cause.

This year the nominations include a specific award for ‘Cultural Volunteer of the Year’ to celebrate the contributions of individuals who make a difference in the county’s cultural activities.

Staffordshire County Councillor, Pat Corfield, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities, said: “Staffordshire is a creative county with many cultural activities, but if it wasn’t for the Without the help come rain or shine of volunteers who help out at theatres, dance volunteers, The Queen's Diamond Jubilee, The clubs, art societies, and galleries there would Olympic Torch Celebrations and so much of be much less to avail of.

Lichfield's cultural life would be the poorer.

“Many organisations, groups and attractions Picture shows Venetia Astrop rely heavily on these volunteers and it is important that they are recognised for their hard work. We are now looking for nominations from people who help out in libraries or museums, amateur dramatics, tour guides, artists who visit schools, musicians who coach bands, or parents who help out at after school singing classes.

“If you know someone who is a great volunteer and is always giving up their time to benefit others, then please nominate them for an award.”

There are a total of ten award categories this year, so there is something for everyone, including environmental volunteer, young volunteer, unsung hero and outstanding leadership to name but a few.

Nominating is easy and only takes a few minutes and you can nominate teams of volunteers as well as individuals. You can nominate your volunteering star at www.volunteerstaffordshire.org.uk/awards, or at your local library. The deadline for nominations is 4th January 2013.

Local residents turn out to support Lichfield funeral directors

T

he team at F.M. & J. Wait, the Lichfield-based funeral directors, have hailed the support of local residents following the success of an open day held to mark the re-launch of their refurbished branch.

On Saturday 3rd November the F.M. & J. Wait team were joined by over 100 guests, including ministers, florists and registrars, as well as members of the general public.

Based on Bird Street, the new-look premises were officially reopened by the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Janet Eagland. Steve Pearce, president of the National Association of Funeral Directors, also unveiled a plaque to commemorate the rededication of the Chapel of Rest.

“We were overwhelmed by the success of the open day and would like to thank everyone who attended;” said Mark Stevens, senior funeral director.

“We are proud to have been a key part of the Lichfield community for over 200 years, not only helping people at times of sorrow but also supporting local Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Ladies Donate to Children’s Hospital Cancer Appeal

F

ollowing a successful fundraising event earlier in the year, members of Lichfield Ladies Circle recently visited Birmingham Children’s Hospital to donate nearly £1,500 to the hospital’s Children’s Cancer Centre Appeal.

The appeal aims to raise the £4 million which is required to improve the facilities, for children under 13 suffering from cancer and their families.

The current facilities are over 30 years old and are too small to cater for the number of young cancer patients needing treatment.

Five members of Lichfield Ladies Circle were given a tour of the existing facilities to see first-hand just what a difference the improvements will make to patients and their families. Sue Jay, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Trustee and honorary member of Lichfield Ladies Circle said: “I just want to say a huge thank you to the members of Lichfield Ladies Circle who raised such a fabulous amount of money for Birmingham Children’s Hospital. As Chairman of the Charity, I know how much difference that money can make to so many. It will be added to the Cancer Unit Appeal, taking us nearer to the £4 million target – thanks again girls.”

The money was raised through a Charity Challenge Day, held in September at Whitemoor Lakes near Alrewas.

The event saw 18 teams from local firms and organisations compete in a number of physical challenges such as archery, zip wire, abseiling, rock climbing and a grand raft race finale.

To find out more about Lichfield Ladies Circle visit www.lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk.

charities and other worthy organisations in the region. By investing in our branch, we have signalled our commitment to the town, and we look forward to continuing our unique role in Lichfield and the surrounding area;” said Mark.

As well as a balloon release in memory of friends and family who have died, residents were given rides around the town in a traditional horse-drawn carriage and introduced to Betty the dog from Pets As Therapy, a nationwide charity that visits hospitals with specially trained cats and dogs to provide comfort to patients.

Hannah Wooley, manager at Ivison florist, entertained guests with a flower arranging demonstration, and doves were released to mark the occasion. A raffle was also held in aid of St Giles Hospice, before guests were treated to a buffet lunch.

Page 9

GazetteNews

Some day my prints will come

Erasmus Darwin House is a Hive of Activity!

By Alison Wallis, Curator

Darwin Walk Trust statue

O

ver the last few months Erasmus Darwin House has been a hive of activity after winning its second Heritage Lottery Fund bid for a project which will improve the exhibition for its visitors. The next three months will be an especially exciting time for Erasmus Darwin House as the project begins to take shape and the new exhibition is installed ready for its February launch.

The project focuses on Darwin’s inventions and will bring to life a number of his ideas in the form of interactive models, such as the steering mechanism, artificial bird, vertical windmill, writing machine, canal barge lift and speaking machine referenced by Adam HartDavis in the museum’s introductory video. As well as being an inventor, Darwin was also a doctor, scientist, botanist, poet and founder member of the Lunar Society. Unfortunately, despite his genius and reputation in the 18th century, Erasmus isn’t as well known as his more famous grandson. Through the museums upcoming activities The Erasmus Darwin Foundation are aiming to change that.

2012 has been particularly exciting with the installation of not one, but two new Darwin statues in Lichfield. Back in May the Darwin Walk Trust unveiled their beautiful John

Sanders statue in Cathedral Walk and this month another statue by local sculptor Peter Walker will be unveiled in Beacon Park.

As part of the creative process, Peter held workshops for local people that generated ideas that contributed to the final sculpture - a strong, literal representation of Erasmus. In one hand he holds a shell and under his arm he carries his ‘commonplace book’ or big notebook – (on loan from English Heritage and available to view at Darwin House). The official unveiling of this work will take place on Darwin’s 281st birthday – 12/12/12 at 12 noon! On Saturday 15th December we will also celebrate his birthday with an open house, free birthday cake and Christmas festivities (10am - 4pm).

If you would like to come to the statue’s unveiling ceremony, which will be attended by members of the Darwin family, the Erasmus Darwin Foundation and the Lichfield District Council, please feel free to join us in the park at midday. If you would like further information on any of the museum’s events please contact the House on 01543 306260 or enquiries@erasmusdarwin.org.

Alison Wallis Manager/Curator

A

happy coincidence reunited a Lichfield bride with her wedding photographs 52 years after her wedding.

When Sylvia Willetts and Michael Allport got married at St Chads on 14 May 1960, the happy occasion was recorded by a local photographer.

However, it was not until Sylvia met up with the photographer and his wife at Samuel Johnson's out-patients department recently that she was recognised and asked if she would like her photographs, over 50 years later.

Sylvia told the Gazette: "Following the wedding we Sylvia Allport had the proofs and Mick and I chose ones of the day. We told the photographer which we wanted and we started saving hard to buy them.

For one reason or another we lost track of the photographer and as time went by and after starting a family and Mick being in the Stafford's for three years, we just forgot about them. It was quite a coincidence that we met again as I only work at Samuel Johnson Hospital two days a week. It was just by chance I was recognised after more than fifty years. The photographer, who had been moving house, recovered them from his loft and remembered me. I can't put into words how I felt, but I must admit when I saw the pictures of the reception at St Michael's Hall I had a weep. I keep looking at them and I remember on the day telling my new husband to keep his speech short as the top tier of the wedding cake was slowly sinking into the bottom!"

Sylvia who has also worked as a volunteer at St Mary's Centre for ten years, lost her husband five years ago. She said Michael would have been as happy as she was to have seen the set of sepia photographs once more.

Sylvia intends to put one Wedding Photo Sylvia & Michael Allport in a frame on her wall.

My Word

Call yourself a logophile?

Test your vocabulary with our new quiz. The prize is an inner glow of satisfaction and superiority.

What is globophobia?

A. B. C.

A fear of butter A fear of goblins A fear of balloons.

The answer is C - Globophobia is a fear of balloons.

Page 10 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 11

Sponsored by

& Robert Yardley Photography

Lichfield

G azette

Bonny Baby & Toddler Competition Winners On Monday 26th November the winners and runners up in both categories of the competition gathered at Arthur Price Factory Shop to receive their prizes from Simon Price (CEO) and have their photographs taken by Robert Yardley. There was no crying or tantrums and the parents and grandparents were very well behaved too! Robert and his assistant Jayne managed to coax smiles, giggles and winsome far away looks from all the children to create a series of adorable photographs. Harry was very animated and struck some perfect poses whilst Eleanor was completely unfazed and managed to sleep through most of the session. That is until the camera was pointed in her direction when she turned on the charm like a true professional. Daisy and Evie Mae were just old enough to understand that there was a good reason why they were dressed in Daisy their best frocks and they

Harry

beamed and twirled for the camera on cue. They must all have been wondering what on earth the fuss was about - this was certainly not part of their normal Monday morning routine!

Elanor

Evie

Hill's News - A new local family business

DAILY NEWSPAPERS DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR After nearly a decade of running a newsagent in Lichfield, we have decided to 'go solo'. As of Sunday 2nd December 2012 we will be offering a news delivery service in your area.

Seven mornings a week delivery of newspapers and magazines to your door, rain or shine !!

Competitive delivery charges - including FREE delivery to residential and care homes and SPECIAL £1 per week for the over 70's' Whether you want a paper delivered EVERY day or just on a Sunday, so you can have a lie in - we can accommodate your needs.

We offer flexible payment methods we will even call to collect your payment from your door. Direct Debit, credit cards, cheques or cash are acceptable.

Paul & Leona Hill (and daughters Anna and Elena)

Phone: 01543 251743 Text/phone:07794394778 Email: englishboyczechgirl@annashouse.freeserve.co.uk

Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Competition Winners Dam Street Competition Winner

Well done to Mrs Troman of Milne Avenue, Fradley who answered all questions correctly and wins £50 to spend at any of the featured advertisers on Dam Steet in the November issue of the magazine. And just in time for Christmas too!

Tamworth Street Competition Winner

Congratulations to Ms George of Bains Drive, Lichfield whose correct entry was the first to be drawn and wins a £50 spending spree at any of the featured advertisers on Tamworth Street in the November issue. Enjoy!

Arthur Price Cutlery Competition

Three lucky local families will be setting their table on Christmas day with an extra dash of class this year after winning top of the range cutlery sets, courtesy of Simon Price, CEO, Arthur Price of England. We asked ‘What traditional gift do you give someone to celebrate 30 years of marriage?’ The correct answer is Pearl and the first three correct entries drawn are as follows: First Prize goes to Mrs Love, The Grange, Bromley who wins a 76 piece Vision cutlery set. Ms L Connor of York Close, Lichfield wins the second prize of a 60 piece Sapphire cutlery set and the third prize of a 44 piece Shimmer cutlery set goes to Mrs Banks of Noddington Avene, Whittington.

Congratulations to all our winners and thank you to Simon Price for sponsoring the competition.

See the Family over Christmas and hear them better too!

Christmas and New Year can be a wonderful time of the year with family and friends around you. But it can be a difficult time too if your hearing is not all that it should be. Children are excitable and noisy, the TV is set too low or you are missing vital parts of the conversation as you are constantly asking people to repeat what they say.

If you suspect that you (or a loved one) have a hearing problem, it can often be a difficult time

trying to decide what to do next. Hidden Hearing are here to help, they will diagnose the hearing loss problem and after completion of the hearing tests they can then advise as to your next course of action.

Hidden Hearing offer: FREE hearing appraisal; expert impartial advice; state-of-the art hearing aids; accessories and batteries as well as aftercare service for life.

Why not call at Lichfield's Hidden Hearing

Centre for yourself and discover their range of digital devices. Take along a friend or family member and you can both appreciate the difference a digital hearing system can make.

Hidden Hearing will often see you without an appointment and hearing tests are done FREE OF CHARGE! There is a wide range of products available and easy payment plans to suit all budgets.

Hearing Health Specialist Hearing Health Care Specialist Mr. Anthony Vaughan HAD FSHAA has worked within the hearing industry for over 23 years; he is continuously involved in projects to find new innovative ways to help people hear more. He was awarded a fellowship from BSHAA in 2006 – (a professional body for Hearing Aid Audiologists providing quality care to customers).

Tony Vaughan’s fellowship status demonstrates his knowledge of the rapidly expanding field of hearing aid technology. In 2010 Tony was awarded commendation in the ‘Audiologist of the Year’ event. This was voted by the public and independently judged by industry experts and representatives from hearing charities. Additionally, we are delighted to announce that most recently he was awarded a Foundation Degree in Hearing Aid Audiology.

The continuous awards and achievements express his passion to help shape the way hearing care is provided for the public, now and in the future. He has helped hundreds of hearing aid users come closer to the real world of sound again; he will provide the best-tailored solution for your hearing loss!

Page 13

Faroe Born make a ‘Killing’ with unique knitwear Sarah Lund’s Faroese jumper is the surprise star of BBC4’s The Killing (now in its third series). The cream and navy chunky-knit is rarely off screen. The new series stars a black and blue version and they are both exclusively available from Faroe Born, the new outlet shop for all things good from the tiny Faroe isles off the coast of Norway.

Faroe Born – based at Heart of the Country at Swinfen – is the first outlet in the UK to sell Sirri Wool products. The all hand-made knitwear is practically unique. The familyowned business imports garments such as jumpers and coats using traditional Faroese techniques using organic, dye-free wool, which is naturally water resistant and wind proof while remaining soft, warm and dry.

Since opening Faroe Born recently, the shop has had enquiries from all over the world after hearing that it stocked jumpers that use the same yarns made famous by the cult BBC drama The Killing. Even Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall is a fan!

In addition to their range of clothing, Faroe Born also stock a range of hand-made jewellery and gifts also made in time-honoured fashion by the Faroese folk.

Why not call in and see for yourself? The most inspired purchase you’ll make this Christmas will be at Faroe Born.

Lichfield Competitive Music Festival Great Success O

n Sunday 18th November, two nine-year old musicians, Molly Smith (harp) and Laura Jenkins (violin and viola) were among players and singers invited to take part in a concert that marked the end of the 2012 Lichfield Competitive Music Festival. The festival, now in its 35th year, was held in local schools in November. Performers in the concert, which took place in Nether Stowe High School, were chosen to reflect the broad range of music heard during the two-day festival.

As part of the festival amateurs of all ages, from the West and East Midlands and as far as Oxfordshire and north Wales, attended nearly sixty different classes to receive constructive advice on musical technique from professional musicians experienced in adjudication. While no minimum grade is required for entry, the five adjudicators independently praised the high standard of music offered in the classes.

Among those present at the concert were the ViceChairman of Lichfield District Council Cllr David Laytham and Mrs Jan Laytham-Gain, the Mayor of Lichfield Cllr Mrs Janet Eagland and the Sheriff of Lichfield Cllr Brian Bacon and Cllr Mrs Norma Bacon, all of whom commented on the quality of the performances.

An appeal was made at the concert for help in preparing next year’s festival and interested volunteers are asked to contact Roger Cresswell - on 01543 473433.

Laura Jenkins pictured after performances on her violin and viola for which she was awarded two ‘Distinctions’.

Southwell Mott Family Solicitors

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

• Wills • Probate • Employment • Trusts

Unit 3 Heart of the Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, Lichfield, Staffs WS14 9QR www.faroeborn.com 0044 (0)1543 480055 / 0044 (0)7920 015033 Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

• Matrimonial • Cohabitee • Divorce • Children disputes • Civil

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

NEW YEAR...NEW YOU at Anthony John Salons.

Have you thought of your new year resolutions yet?

Most of us find ourselves making resolutions at the start of every new year, often punishing ourselves for over indulging at Christmas with promises to change our diet or fitness routine. Well, how about this year you make a change that doesn’t involve blood, sweat and tears? Pamper yourself. You deserve it!

At Anthony John Salons we promise to offer you the new year change you are looking for- giving you that perfect pick me up for the New Year blues. Whether you want a complete re-style or those locks simply tweaking our stylists are there to help transform you for the year ahead.

New year, new you!

Anthony John Salons are offering all new clients an exclusive 20% discount for a limited time only. Take advantage of this offer until February 2013.

Contact our front of house team to make your appointment 01543 481900 enquiries@anthonyjohn-salons.co.uk www.anthonyjohn-salons.co.uk

Page 15

GazetteCompetition

FUN WITH FINE JEWELLERY

WIN

a beautiful Bubble pendant valued at £595

O

ne of Lichfield ‘s leading jewellers, City Jewellers, has joined forces with London Road Jewellery in a competition to win a multi-gem Bubble pendant from London Road’s Pimlico collection. The Bubble pendant is pure glamour, with colourful cabochon cut gems of – peridot, moonstone, pink tourmaline, blue topaz and garnet set in bubbles of rose gold.

Facing Lichfield’s Market Square and Dr Samuel Johnson’s birthplace, City Jewellers is a family business spanning three generations, which prides itself on a reputation for integrity and beautiful jewellery. It consistently offers the very best in design and quality, stocking some of the most fashionable jewellery and watch brands. London Road’s exciting collection of contemporary fine jewellery is the perfect fit with this traditional yet on-trend store, where a warm welcome is extended to all customers, making sure everyone receives individual and unhurried attention.

London Road enjoys a long-standing reputation for creating fine jewellery made by British craftsmen in the

S

company’s own London workshops. Bold and eyecatching, elegant and chic, London Road jewellery is a celebration of vibrant, contemporary design, reflecting the excitement and diversity of London. Collections are named after some of the city’s most recognised neighbourhoods – Bloomsbury, Burlington, Kew, Pimlico, Portobello. The brightest diamonds and a wide range of gemstones with unusual cuts in rose, white or yellow gold embody the London Road hallmarks of colour, texture and shape.

City Jewellers of Lichfield, 39 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LA. Tel 01543 416 412. www.cityjewellers.co.uk To be in with a chance of winning this lovely piece of jewellery please answer the following question: Name one of the London Road collections named after a neighbourhood in London. The lucky winner will be notified by post. Answers on a postcard or a sealed down envelope and sent to: City Jewellers competition Lichfield Gazette, PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Closing date 15th of December 2012. Editor's decision is final.

In conjunction with

City Jewellers

Lichfield Photographer Wins Royal Photographic Society Associateship

ue Freeman was born in Lichfield and lives only a few miles away in Burntwood, however, it was photographs of the remnants of Victorian industry in Hockley, Birmingham that won her an Associateship of the Royal Photographic Society this October. This allows Sue to put the letters ARPS after her name, and indicates that she has achieved a high level of skill in photography.

The Royal Photographic Society was founded in 1853 ‘to promote the Art and Science of Photography’. The Society’s distinctions are internationally recognised and very sought after. In order to become an associate a panel of 15 pictures is submitted and these are assessed by senior members of the society.

Sue specialises in creating arresting landscapes where the original image is subtly and intricately manipulated in Photoshop, giving them a hyper real, almost painterly quality.

The images submitted to the RPS included several of old Victorian factory buildings in Hockley that are miraculously still in existence and give us such a strong feeling of the characters of these industrious and resilient people. Indeed, one of the Judges commented that you could ‘actually imagine Fagin walking down the stairs’ of the image shown here to the right of Sue (in the photo to the right). In addition Sue submitted portraits (Sue’s pet portraits Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

are filled with personality) and landscapes.

Sue is a semi professional photographer who will be opening her own photographic business imminently. She commented that she would not have applied for the Associateship if it had not been for the fantastic help and encouragement she receives from the Lichfield Camera Club.

Sue is taking photographic commissions now, and is also mid application for an Associateship of FIAP (a highly regarded French Photographic Society) to add to her awards from the Photographic Association of Great Britain and the Royal Photographic Society.

For more information go to www.mono-art.co.uk

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GazetteNews

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...!

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umpty Dumpty Day Nursery and Pre-School joined forces with Lichfield Cathedral School as part of their re-cycling project, to design and construct an impressive igloo from recycled 4 pint (or 2.27 litres for those metric minded readers) milk containers. We have asked for the support of our children and Parents to collect empty four pint milk cartons.

“The support has been phenomenal;” said Liz Lock, Business Development Manager of the Nursery: “Parents have sourced containers not only from home but have collected in the workplace and have even taken it upon themselves to ask small businesses to donate their used milk containers. We would like to offer a huge thank you to everyone who has supported and been involved in the project.”

Lichfield Cathedral School’s Art Ambassador, Marcus Lock was responsible for organising the event in conjunction with the Nursery and for offering expert engineering advice whilst construction was taking place. He led a team of three pupils from the Cathedral School alongside

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children from the Nursery plus Forest School Practitioners, in a collaborative project that the city hasn’t seen before.

Construction began at 9am on a windy, cold Thursday in November and continued until 4pm.

The team worked relentlessly through the uncomfortable conditions to utilise the 535 containers in the build; “I am sure you will agree it is an impressive sight, and an enhancement the children will enjoy for weeks to come;” continued Liz. The Cathedral School are hoping to use the igloo in the near future as part of some fundraising they are involved in for a related project in Sierra Leone. A group of three pupils including Marcus Lock will be helping to build a nursery in an extremely deprived area of the country in February 2013.

The following day at nursery the children couldn’t wait to use their imaginations and get dressed up in a wintery fashion to use the igloo as a home for a very excitable waddle of Penguins.

photo by Robert Yardley

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Mayor's Gala Dinner T

he annual Diamond Gala Dinner was hosted by The Right Worshipful Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Mrs Janet Eagland at the Guildhall on Friday 16 November and was a splendid affair. Funds generated by a Tombola and ticket sales will support the Mayor and Sheriff's nominated charities - the Alzheimer's Association Singing for the Brain; Lichfield and Burntwood Social Club for the Blind and 9th Lichfield (Saxon Hill) Scouts. The Mayor was accompanied by her husband Mr Keith Eagland, Sheriff Cllr Brian Bacon and his lady Cllr Mrs Norma Bacon.

Image Courtesy of Robert Yardley Photography.

Beacon Park Children’s Christmas Trail 2012

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fter the success of the Halloween Trail which saw 47 children follow spooky clues around the city park, Lichfield District Council’s parks team is launching a Christmas Trail.

Throughout December, children can come to Beacon Park and follow a trail to help Ranger Ted find out what present he will be getting for Christmas.

Councillor Val Richards, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, said: “Following a trail is a fun activity that means children enjoy a good walk in the fresh air, while using their powers of deduction to solve the clues.”

The trails will be on sale from the Ranger Station, which is next to the crazy golf course, every day from 10am to 3pm, between 1 December 2012 and 1 January 2013 (except Christmas Day).

The trails cost just £1 each and there is a small prize for every completed trail.

Ranger Ted will be making a special guest appearance at Chandlers Lakeside Bistro at 12 noon on Friday 21 December.

Everyone is welcome to come along and meet the giant teddy ranger who will be dressed in his Christmas best.

Ranger Ted Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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GazetteNews

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t looks like the residents of Lichfield may have to brace themselves for weeks of disruption as sections of the A38 are likely to remain closed due to flooding, just as it did seven years ago.

Michael Fabricant MP has stepped in to the national spotlight after ITV Studios urging the PM to consider a Conservative merge with UKIP – It seems that all political parties are concerned about the damage UKIP could do to traditional core support.

Richard Winterton Auctioneers are due to open their new auction room in Lichfield imminently, so when you’re up in the attic fetching the Christmas decorations remember to have a good look for any lost heirlooms.

Author Annette Rubery launches a new book about Lichfield past and present this week, just as the The Bystander has learnt of another new book on Lichfield hot on its heels from a separate publisher.

Alrewas based author of BBC3 comedy series ‘White Van Man’ Adrian Poynton is co-writing an American version of this hit show entitled ‘Family Tools’. It starts a ten episode run in January.

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Local Funeral Director Discovers Historic Ledger

ichfield based funeral directors F M & J Wait unearthed a unique chronicle of local history during a recent refurbishment when the team stumbled upon a century old ledger containing details of funerals arranged by the branch dating back as early as 1894.

The ledger is one of many books that would have been used by the staff to record details of funerals undertaken in the local area. Ledgers were used daily at the branch up until as recently as the early 1990’s before a computerised records system was introduced. Following the switch, the ledger was forgotten about, only to be rediscovered recently when the staff started to clear areas of the building ahead of the recent revamp.

On discovering the ledger, staff took the book to the Lichfield Heritage Centre for local historian Laura Bowcutt to analyse its historical significance. While looking through its contents, Laura had a surprise when she found information relating to her own family history.

Laura commented: “As someone who has lived in the area all my life, the book gave me a real insight into both local history and also my own ancestry. I was delighted to discover details of my great-grandfathers funeral, as well as the funeral arrangements for his second wife which were included in the ledger. From both a personal and a historical point of view it is a fascinating find.”

The 100 page ledger contains details of 240 funerals organised by F.M. & J. Wait. The ledger was showcased to local residents at a recent open day. It will now remain in a display cabinet at F.M. & J. Wait for visitors to view.

National Memorial Arboretum welcomes record number of visitors

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he National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is on course for a record year for visitor numbers. Despite poor weather this summer, the Arboretum, which is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities, has attracted consistently high numbers of visitors, experiencing a record month in July when footfall reached more than 40,000.

Visits by school parties of all ages are also on the rise, with a year to date figure of over 6,500 students; a 37% increase in the number of students visiting as part of the Arboretum’s Education Programme since 2011. This is expected to increase further by the end of the year, with school groups booked in until the middle of December.

The Arboretum has also shown continual growth in terms of the number of memorials on site, which now exceeds 250. Recent additions have included memorials for the Salvation Army, Cheltenham College and the Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces (PARAs), with many more approved for construction in the coming months.

This growth comes ahead of the new building work scheduled to begin at the Arboretum in early 2013. The £12 million development project will include the creation of a Remembrance Learning Centre to explain to visitors the importance and meaning of Remembrance and the significance of the Arboretum; a Pavilion to accommodate many of the 200+ events and conferences that take place every year and ‘Heroes’ Square’, a partially covered outdoor area for major set piece events.

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City People

Beth Colley – Beacon Park Organiser, Lichfield Bower

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eth Colley is part of the hard working team that bring us the Lichfield Bower every year. Beth’s official title is Beacon Park Organiser, so she is responsible for much of the entertainment, stall provision, radio coverage and much else that goes on within the park on Bower Day. Beth, like the rest of the committee is a volunteer and dedicates hundreds of hours every year to this wonderful event, completely free and simply for the love of it, alongside a full time job as a graphic designer.

Beth was born in Lichfield and lives here still with her family. She has been involved in the Lichfield Bower for five years and in that time has worked with the team to make the Bower the best of traditional and modern Lichfield. The Bower regularly attracts hundreds of visitors into the city and boosts the area’s economy significantly.

Preparations for the Bower take a full twelve months and 2012 has seen The Bower team getting involved in events throughout the year, including taking a stand at the Lichfield Food Festival.

One of the fascinating new additions to last year’s Bower was in fact a reintroduction of an ancient tradition that only disappeared in the 1970’s – the distribution of Bower Cake.

In 2012 Coco Meli, the artisan local baker, was given secret instructions on how to bake Bower Cake, a delicacy distributed to children on the morning of Bower Day up until forty years ago. Beth herself remembers receiving a slice of this fruity cake and is delighted that, like generations before, her own children are now part of this great tradition. The recipe for Bower Cake was and is a closely guarded secret, with only two individuals knowing the precise ingredients. In fact, the recipe arrived anonymously through Beth’s letterbox in an envelope marked ‘Top Secret’!

Putting on the Bower is a momentous job every year and the committee are always delighted to hear from people who might be able to help in any capacity, during whatever time they have free.

Also, The Bower team are holding monthly quiz nights at the King’s Head and a glamorous Festive Ball at Weston Hall in Stafford on Dec 8th (some tickets are still available). For information on these events and details on how to volunteer go to www.lichfieldbower.co.uk

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GazetteNews

Remembrance Sunday Photographs by Robert Yardley

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ollowing the service in Lichfield Cathedral, the sun shone on the usual well attended Service of Remembrance in the Memorial Gardens on Sunday 11 November.

The Worshipful Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Janet Eagland led the Armistice Prayer.

Scout groups, new army recruits and members of the RAF along with city dignitaries stood in silence in remembrance of the fallen in conflicts around the world, both long-past and recent.

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GazetteSchools Feature

HIGHCLARE SCHOOL

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By a spokesperson

ighclare School has enjoyed some exciting landmarks this Autumn term, in an academic year which sees the school celebrating its 80th Anniversary.

The fact is that Highclare School has been educating young people in Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding areas since 1932 and although a very different kind of education is offered now, many of the traditions and values that have sustained us through those 80 years are still as relevant today.

We take pride in our school ethos, to achieve individual excellence for each pupil and to inspire our pupils to aim for the very best results they can. The values that have encouraged this in the past are still employed today, with a strong emphasis on discipline, learning, self respect, delivering motivation and, dare we say it, learning good manners. This, alongside a strong academic curriculum and plenty of opportunity to experience life in the modern world, we think gives a balanced and all round education to equip our young people for their modern day lives.

Our recent Speech Night and Prize Giving gave opportunity to celebrate with pupils, past and present, the success they achieved in external examinations last summer and the ongoing

successes of all pupils in the Senior School & Sixth form. It is part of the school’s ethos to celebrate everyone’s success in whatever area of life and this extended from effort prizes for academic achievement to Lynn Edmonds from Sainsburys & Alison Cobbald, Head of Home Economics at musical Highclare School, with pupils, cutting the ribbon to launch the new facilities for achievements, Home Economics. success in Speech & Drama educational Senior school has been wholly examinations (LAMDA), Sporting colours and successful with the first 2 cohorts of boys, equal in regional and national representation and the number to girls, now settled into the school. group successes celebrated by the award of Indeed this strategy has earned the school a House Trophies in many areas. place in the final of the prestigious Independent The 2012/2013 academic year is a real high School Awards with only 3 other schools out of point in the school’s journey. The change in 200 + competing for outstanding strategic initiative strategy to take a girls’ only senior school with a of the year. co-educational Sixth Form, into a fully co-

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GazetteNews

The George and Dragon Takes Flight for Charity

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oss Fellows has been the landlord of the George and Dragon pub, Beacon Street, Lichfield since 2009. In November, Ross celebrated his 30th birthday and as a present to himself decided to fulfil one of his personal ambitions – to skydive.

Hugo Fellows, brother of Ross decided to skydive alongside and a date was set for November 11th. Hugo is a jockey and has seen how essential fast emergency medical care is when a fall occurs. It was with this in mind that he suggested to his brother that they ask for sponsorship for their jumps. Just six weeks later the brothers had collected an astounding £1,230 in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance.

Ross collected £780 from his generous customers at the George and Dragon and Hugo and Ross’ family clubbed together to pay for a photographer to cover the event. The result is an action filled sequence of shots, some of which are included here.

The jump took place at Sibson in Peterborough, where Ross and Hugo jumped in tandem with an instructor who guided the jump. According to Ross, jumping from 13,000 ft was a fantastic experience: “We had a brilliant day and even though the temperature was below freezing I’d do it again tomorrow.”

Ross behind the Bar of the George & Dragon

Jumping from the Cessna

Half way down Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Ross and Hugo Fellows

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£159.00 Palais D’or 'Tree of Life' pendant 10A Market Street, Lichfield tel: 01543 410915

City Jewellers

Silver dress rings set with Rose or Aqua Chalcedony and Amethyst

£179 each

39 Market Street, Lichfield WS13 6LA tel: 01543 416412

City Jewellers

Silver cuff with Blue and White Topaz

by SHO Jewellery

£630

39 Market Street, Lichfield WS13 6LA tel: 01543 416412

Faroe Born Jumper £119.99

Unit 3 Heart of the Country Shopping Village,Swinfen, Lichfield, Staffs WS14 9QR www.faroeborn.com 0044 (0)1543 480055 / 0044 (0)7920 015033

La Boutique

Womens Printed Wellies, Brown Dog WELLY PRINT

£36.95

2 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LH. Tel: 01543 414149. www.laboutiquelichfield.co.uk

Salloways Jewellers

Moorcroft ‘Christmas in the Pots’.

£195.00

Bore Street, Lichfield , WS13 6NA 01543 262244 www.salloways.co.uk

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Home is where the art is Kate Williams has made a dream into a reality at Curborough Craft Centre

“I have always been passionate about art, craft and design and have been creating and making since I can remember. Having my own little shop full of wonderful handmade items has always been dream of mine, but I had no idea that it would actually happen.

Flutterby Art Boutique was created in 2011 from my bed at my parents' house in Telford, whilst I was battling Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, making cards and crafts from my bed. At first I gave my creations to friends and family, but as my health improved I managed to build a stock to do my first craft fair. It was so enjoyable and everyone was so friendly, that I started doing as many as my health would allow.

I now live in Lichfield with my partner Ben and our two beautiful kittens, Rocky and Minnie and my health has continued to improve.

I am really living my dream; Flutterby Art Boutique is everything that I could have wished for. We have 30 talented crafters and artists who all sell their wonderful work. I teach my classes downstairs, whilst upstairs is available to use for workshops and exhibitions. I sell all the craft and art supplies that I use myself, stocking unusual, hand selected materials to make crafter’s projects that little bit special and I just love seeing what people have created.”

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Flutterby Art Boutique Beautiful Artwork & Crafts Classes & Supplies Selling work by over 30 talented artists and crafters. Classes, workshops & 1:1 tuition for all ages & abilities. Haberdashery, hand-picked & vintage fabric and craft supplies.

Open Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sat 10am - 5pm and Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm. Closed Mon & Fri Opent 21st December & 24th December.

Curborough Craft Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield. WS13 8ES

GazetteNews

Wall Milestone Project

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Photographs by Robert Yardley

he Queen's Diamond Jubilee was a truly remarkable event in our nation's history. Not since the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897 has a reigning monarch achieved 60 years on the throne.

Such an event was widely felt to merit lasting commemoration. To mark the Jubilee a new landmark with an ancient theme was unveiled alongside Watling Street in Wall Village on 24th November by The Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire Mr Ian Dudson CBE. This feature was the idea of The Milestone Society, a group whose aim is to restore and maintain ancient milestones and finger posts throughout the country. The stone will be suitably inscribed in Latin to reflect sixty years of the Queens reign and is the only one of its type to be installed since the Roman period.

The Stone has been commissioned by Wall Parish Council in conjunction with the Milestone Society and was crafted by a Huddersfield sculptor Dave Bradbury and sponsored by The Milestone Society; British Epigraphy Society; Cllr Erica Bayliss, Staffordshire County Council; Simon Nash, Past & Present Developments; Wall Parish Council and The Friends of Letocetum.

The project team consisted of Chair: John Crowe; Project Lead: Jeremy Milln; Layout: Richard Grasby; Sculptor: Dave Bradbury; Text: Dr Roger Tomlin The inscription on the stone may be broadly translated as: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, in the sixtieth year of her reign.

The people of Wall set this up at Letocetum, centre of the Province of Britain. Distances (given in Roman miles): London 124, Gloucester 66, Chester 68, York 122.

The original location of the junction of Watling Street & Ryknild Street now lies in the fields approx half a mile to the south east of the village centre. We now know these roads as the Modern day Watling Street the A5 and the A38 respectively.

Cllr. John Crowe

Ken Humphreys (Chairman of Lichfield District Council), Jeremy Milln (Archeologist and historian), Simon Nash (Benefactor), Ian Dudson (Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire), Councillor Erica Bayliss, Mr Ian Lawson (Chairman of Staffordshire County Council), Parish Councillor John Crowe (project coordinator), Dave Bradbury (Sculptor).

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GazetteHeritage

Marvel at Market Street As our advertising feature this month spotlights Market Street, we thought we would have a look at the street as it was years ago. These photographs will bring back memories for our older readers. Enjoy!

International Stores was at No. 14 Market Street, est. 1903, and is now the book clearance shop

Old photographs make inspired gifts for Christmas.

Maypole dairy was situated at 29a in 1911 and is now part of the Brittania Building Society.

Humphries est. 1902, now a sports shop.

Ballards est. 1959 had previously been Johnson's Confectioners and today is the British Heart Foundation shop.now an OXFAM shop.

Garratts Bakery was situated in 1908 on the corner of City Arcade which is now Michael's Menswear.

Garretts Bill

Lichfield Heritage Collection holds over 10,000 photographs of Lichfield past and present. If you are researching your family tree, one of these photographs may relate to you. Copies can be purchased. The collection is free to view and is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am – 12.30pm at The Lichfield Heritage Centre, St Mary's Church, Market Street, Lichfield Tel 01543 256611.

If you or your family have old photos of places and events in Lichfield or old artefacts referring to the town, The Heritage Centre would be happy to receive them to make them available to Lichfeldians for generations to come.

Street details by courtesy John Gallagher

GazetteMarket Street Feature

Market Street Heart of the City IN OUR MARKET STREET CHRISTMAS COMPETITION WIN £50

If only the walls of Market Street could talk, what a tale of intrigue and wonder they would tell. Market Street saw the birth of Dr Johnson, the cursing denouncement of Lichfield

by George Fox the then notorious founder of the Quakers, as well as grotesque burnings at the stake that took place in the Marketplace during the reign of Queen Mary and James I. Today Market Street, once known as both Robe Street and Sadler Street holds a number of grade II listed buildings and this pleasant pedestrian friendly street with its charming half-timbered gables is the home of many independent shops selling a superb variety of merchandise. This is the ideal place to start your Christmas shopping.

Answer these questions (the answers to which are all in this feature) to win £50 to spend at any of the businesses mentioned.

1. Noah pictured this transport?

2. Peter from England? where?

3. A bookshop and museum?

4. Cook up a storm here?

5. Jewellery of vintage here?

6. Meyers trousers here?

Write all your answers on a postcard or the back of a sealed envelope and post it to: The Lichfield Gazette Market Street Competition PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Don’t forget to include your name and address.

Entries must be received by 30th December 2012. The editor’s decision is final and the winner will be announced in our Jan/Feb 2013 edition.

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GazetteMarket Street Feature

Arc Photographic Studios Arc Studios have gift vouchers available so why not give them to family or friends this Christmas so they can book a family sitting or individual portraits? The proprietor, Vivienne Bailey has a BA (Hons) degree in photography and has won several awards including the Bank's Midland Press Photographer of the Year and the prestigious Bolt Award.

Vivian made a name for herself in recent years through her portrait sittings and readers may have spotted her work in one of the showcases along Tudor Row. Bookings can be made by ringing either 01543 418921 or 07887 433891 or by visiting the website www.arcstudios.biz.

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Michael’s Menswear Michael’s Menswear has a long history and association with Lichfield being formerly Taylers of Lichfield. In the heart of Market Street and on the corner of City Arcade, Michael’s has a full and extensive range of menswear and stock ideal for Christmas presents.

At the moment the ‘special offers’ on Peter England shirts both patterned and plain are superb, (as explained in more detail in the advertisement). Men’s quality knitwear, trousers, suits, formal wear, evening dress wear and accessories can all be found at Michael’s Menswear, 12 Market Street, Lichfield.

The Kitchen Shop This Christmas, let The Kitchen Shop help you cook up a storm! Established over 30 years ago, they stock everything from funky gadgets and seasonal gifts to really serious cookware and tableware.

The Kitchen Shop are opening on Sunday 16th Dec 10-4pm as part of

Lichfield’s Christmas Festival weekend.

So why not come along and treat someone to a special gift?

The Kitchen Shop at 5 Market Street Lichfield are retail excellence award winners. Pay them a visit this Christmas and find out the reasons why. You’ll be made very welcome.

Samuel Johnson The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and Bookshop is an oasis of calm in the city centre that is open daily (admission is free). Book lovers and Christmas present hunters will enjoy the well-stocked shop on the ground floor, houses in the same room from which Johnson's father ran his bookshop 300 years ago. Here you will find unique gifts from antique prints and book tokens to local beers and themed gift packs. The Museum is also holding a Christmas Evening on December 15th, visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.ukfor more information.

GazetteMarket Street Feature Palais D’or Palais D’Or has been trading for almost 25 years in Lichfield as a family business and is now in their 2nd generation. With combined gemmologist, diamond grader and jeweller on the premises, Palais D’Or have a strong and experienced team to deal with a variety of requests and queries.

They stock a variety of interesting and exciting items to suit all tastes and price ranges, from Nomination and renowned jewellery brand Clogau Gold to a wide range of previously owned jewellery and watches.

The Palais D’Or team will look forward to welcoming you during Christmas or in the near future!

Graeme Hewes Menswear Established in 1992, Graeme Hewes Menswear staff have a passion for giving the finest customer service, and attracting customers new and old from a wide area of Staffordshire.

Concentrating on brand names from Germany, Italy, Spain and even from Great Britain, labels like Meyer, Olymp, Gardeur, Magee and shoes and boots by Paco Milan in flat and Cuban heels, ust a few of our tempting names. We also offer a two piece suit from £99.

Evening wear plus wedding and evening hire and kilt hire are also available. All our alterations are carried out free of charge in store. Call into our shop or ring Graeme, Liz or Sally for any details or questions that you may have on 01543 418514

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First Floor Designer Jewellery Boutique Now Open City Jewellers are delighted to open there new FIRST FLOOR DESIGNER JEWELLERS BOUTIQUE in time for Christmas. Branching away from tradition they have added some fantastic award winning Designers including Shaun Leane, Sho, Missoma, Babette Wasserman, The Real Effect, Seven and London Road. All of these brands sit alongside the ever popular Trollbeads in there Luxurious new surrounding of this FIRST FLOOR BOUTIQUE.

Silver Missoma Drop Earrings Set with Amethyst. £235

Silver cuff with Blue and White Topaz by SHO Jewellery £630

Silver Pendant Set with Smokey Quartz and Blue and White Topaz

By SHO Jewellery £210

Silver Missoma Dress Ring Set with Aqua Chalcedony £195

Silver dress rings set with Rose or Aqua Chalcedony and Amethyst RRP £179 each

Attractive First Floor Boutique

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01543 262244

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GazetteNews

A Georgian Family Christmas at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

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tep in from the cold and step back in time with an atmospheric Christmas event for the whole family at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum this December. ‘A Georgian Family Christmas’ takes place on Saturday December 15th at 4pm - 6pm.

Join our Christmas party in the beautiful historic surroundings of a Grade I listed building with an afternoon and evening of music, activities and festive fun. During the event Carols and favourite Christmas tunes will be performed by the Lichfield Singers, alongside storytelling for the young and the young-at-heart. In addition

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there will be Christmas craft activities, treasure hunt trails and a grotto of amazing automata to explore. Everyone will find something to delight, from mulled wine and a mince pie to tips from a professional flower arranger on how to make stunning Christmas decorations.

Tickets costs £5 per adult and children go free. To book or to find out more call 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk, pop into the Museum on the corner of the Market Square from 11am – 3.30pm daily, or visit the Museum‘s website a twww.samueljohnsonbirthplace.o rg.uk.

Gardening Column

with Byron Lewis from G Scapes Plant Centre in Lichfield

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ell it’s finally here – Christmas is upon us and with it, the time to decorate your home and garden for the festive season. Garden Centres will by now be taking delivery of thousands of Real Christmas Trees for putting into your lounge to give pleasure over the festive period – but how do you look after them for the best display?

There are many types of Real Christmas Trees, ranging from the traditional Norway Spruce through to the more popular Nordman Fir. The Nordman has become so popular because it is one of the best trees for needle-retention (so that your carpet stays carpet-coloured and not covered in tree!) It is also soft to the touch, so ideal if you have small children at home – it is also easy to decorate and generally very bushy, so giving good value for money.

There are numerous designs of Christmas tree stand which incorporate a water ‘reservoir’, so keep this full of water at all times. A medium tree can drink up to 3 pints of water daily!

• Select your tree early in December. This should give you the best selection in terms of choice of sizes and shapes. But once you’ve purchased it, keep the tree outdoors until you are ready to decorate – this will keep it looking better for longer.

• Keep your tree away from heat – if you can, turn off any radiators or fires that are alongside the tree.

Again, this prolongs the life of the tree.

Have a great Christmas!

From all at G-Scapes.

Whatever tree you choose, there are a few simple rules to follow :

The G-Scapes Plant Centre Christmas Shop is now open, with a huge selection of Real Christmas Trees, as well as home-made wreaths and garlands.

• Keep your tree watered. This is the most important part of the process. Once a tree has been cut, it is no longer able to find water itself – so you will need to water it regularly.

Byron Lewis is Retail Manager at G-Scapes Plant Centre at Curborough Craft Centre, Lichfield.

01543 256401. www.g-scapes.co.uk or find us on Facebook & Twitter.

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GazetteNews

Martin Ryan is in the Doghouse!

By Caz Jones

I

had the good fortune to meet Martin Ryan today his grandson, Harry, is the winner of our 2012 Bonny Baby (Category 1) Competition. Martin, his wife Pam and daughter Sarah (and I hope to be able to tell you more about Sarah in the New Year) accompanied Harry to the Arthur Price Factory Shop on Britannia Way so he could be presented with his prize by Simon Price and have his photograph taken by Robert Yardley.

But there’s more to Alrewas resident Martin than a famous and successful daughter and a beautiful grandson. On the first Tuesday of most months you’ll find him and his fellow musician, Stef Dziuba, at the Crown Inn (7 Post Office Rd, Alrewas DE13 7BS) playing the Doghouse Folk Club.

This is truly a community event, there’s no entrance fee but you’ll be ‘invited’ to buy a £1 raffle ticket to help cover their petrol costs as they also play in Nottingham. Martin and Stef don’t get paid for their performances, as Martin said: “We don’t want any payment, we’re past all that and we just love what we do.”

They have been playing together for many years, in a five piece band called Misty and prior to that as a trio

called Moonshiners with Bill Naughton, who still joins them for a few songs from time to time despite (l to r) Martin Ryan and Stef Dziuba the fact that, as Martin said, The album title is no coincidence as it is dedicated their heyday was 50 years ago! to Martin and Pam’s Golden wedding anniversary a January 2013 is looking to be a very special month short while ago so our congratulations for reaching as, by popular demand, Martin and Stef have recorded such a milestone! a new CD, ‘Dublin Town in 1962’, which will be The next date for the Doghouse Folk Club is launched in the New Year. I’ve been lucky enough to Tuesday 4 December. Doors open at 7.30pm for an get a ‘hot off the press’ copy of the CD. It’s a 8.00pm start and you can be guaranteed a jolly delightful, gentle album and it makes for lovely, easy atmosphere and an audience sing-a-long. It ends at listening featuring some great old songs like Rose of 10.30 – that is if the audience can be persuaded to go Allendale, Carrickfergus and of course Dublin Town in home! As the first Tuesday of January is New Years 1962. The CD costs just £5 (money well spent in my Day the next performance will be on Tuesday 8 opinion) and enquiries should be made to January 2013. pamartinryan@hotmail.com.

Win tickets to the UK’s biggest fashion and beauty event – Clothes Show Live!

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he Lichfield Gazette and Clothes Show Live have teamed up to give three lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the UK’s biggest fashion and beauty event, taking place from 7 – 11 December at the NEC Birmingham.

The event features non-stop catwalk shows, hundreds of high-street, vintage and designer brands to shop from, hair and beauty demonstrations, industry talks by leading experts and appearances by some of the UK’s favourite celebrities – including JLS, Brit designer Henry Holland, stylist to the stars Grace Woodward, the cast of Britain and Ireland’s Next Top Model including former judge Charlie Speed, model and presenter Zara Martin, Peter Andre, Gemma Collins, Amy Childs and many more.

Fronted by British model Daisy Lowe, the event is set to be the biggest, most fashionable and interactive to date.

The prize includes a seat in the spectacular Suzuki

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Fashion Theatre featuring over 40 handpicked models and dancers and some of the best of British fashion.

More information is available at www.clothesshowlive.com

To be in with a chance to win one of three pairs of tickets, just answer the following question.

Philip Treacy is a British designer of...

A. Shoes B. Hats C. Jewellery Send you answer in by email only please to

gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition close date of 5th December. Please remember to include your address and a contact number. No duplications, one entry per household. Good luck!

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GazetteNews

B

New Memorial Stone for Burntwood

urntwood Parish has announced that in 2013 a memorial stone dedicated to the fallen servicemen and women of Burntwood will be erected.

At present there is a plaque in the entrance of Burntwood Memorial Community Association Hall (Burntwood Institute) which only lists those who died during WWI This poses some difficulty on Remembrance Sunday as it does not list those who have fallen in the service of their country since 1918.

It is proposed that a stone be erected in the grounds of the Hall in time for the Remembrance service in 2013 and that the names of all who have been killed in action be included. This will be a special event for Burntwood and it is hoped that it can be celebrated with the relatives of those whose names will be inscribed on the memorial. Some funding is in place but donations towards the memorial would be most welcome.

The team behind the memorial are anxious

to trace any living relatives of the fallen of Burntwood, from both WWI, WW2 and successive conflicts. It is hoped that a tribute and photographs of these service personnel can be displayed within the Hall.

At present the list of fallen servicemen and women of Burntwood holds the following names...

WW2: Charles Bailey, Kenneth Dorset, Alan Grimley, Stanley Lee, Donald Lees, Ronald Lysons, Clifford Philpott, David Sammons, John Shorthouse, Richard Weston, John Workman, Franciszek Kempa, Ronald Faunch.

Palestine: Billie Mitchel.

N. Ireland: John Patterson, David Walker Iraq: Kevin Maine.

The team would like anyone who is able to provide additional names, details, photographs or donations to contact Peter Reynolds at the Hall on 01543 672763 or email burntwood.bmca@btconnect.com

Duke and Duchess of Gloucester attend Service at National Memorial Arboretum O

n 11th November the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire hosted a special outdoor Service of Remembrance to mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. The Service was attended

by Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, who represented Her Majesty The Queen.

The congregation included senior representatives of the Government and Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

Around 700 invited guests and ticket holders attended the Service itself, under marquee cover on the Royal Naval Review, while several thousand more came to the Arboretum, which is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities, to watch proceedings via a large screen and pay their respects to the fallen. Key members of the congregation made their way to the Armed Forces Memorial for the two minute Silence, which is called on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in remembrance of the cessation of First World War hostilities.

Complementing the Cenotaph in London, which commemorates specifically the victims of the First and Second World Wars, the Armed Forces Memorial is the nation’s tribute to the 16,000 service men and women who have died on duty, or as a result of terrorism, since 1948. It is an icon for contemporary Remembrance and its towering Portland Stone walls are added to annually. The memorial is designed so that at the precise time of the Silence a shaft of sunlight dissects its inner and outer walls and hits the central bronze wreath sculpture; an exceptionally moving sight.

Following the service, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester led the formal wreath laying, after which members of the congregation then made their own pilgrimage to the Armed Forces Memorial to lay wreaths.

Formalities ended with a Parade and March Past, for which HRH The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO took the salute.

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GazetteNews

Neighbourhood development plans offer a greater say N

fotofacade.com

eighbourhoods across the district are being offered the chance to have more of a say in how their local areas could develop over time.

Communities in Lichfield District are working towards creating ‘neighbourhood plans’ using new powers given to them by the Localism Act. Neighbourhood plans can be used to develop a shared vision for a neighbourhood, in choosing where new homes, shops, offices and other developments should be built locally, in identifying and protecting green spaces, and in influencing what buildings should look like.

To have the power to make neighbourhood plans, parish councils or community groups in Lichfield District first need to apply to Lichfield District Council to make their area of choice a ‘neighbourhood area’.

Shenstone Parish Council has already applied to the council to designate the wards of Shenstone, Little Aston and Stonnall as separate neighbourhood areas.

Alrewas Parish Council has also applied to make the parish of Alrewas a neighbourhood area.

Councillor Alan White, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Development Services, said: “Becoming a neighbourhood area means that local communities can create their own neighbourhood plans, based on how they want their areas to develop over time.

“It’s a fantastic way for local people to get actively involved in the planning process, and we hope more parishes will consider creating a development plan for their area.”

To comment on the proposed area designations, or to find out more about neighbourhood planning, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplans or call Lichfield District Council on 01543 308193.

Anyone who is interested in getting involved in developing a neighbourhood plan should contact their parish council.

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GazetteFeature

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hough the office Christmas party may move venue and bring new faces every year, the personalities of those invited never change, according to new research.

Experts claim exactly 10 party ‘characters’ are present at every single staff party regardless of where it is, which industry or trade throws the bash or how many people attend.

The classic office party, will follow an almost formulaic pattern, according to the study by national bar and brasserie chain, Browns.

If you’re attending an office bash, see if you can spot the following...

The Peak-too-sooner This man or woman is the office Christmas party evangelist. They help round up the troops in advance of the annual bash and make wild promises of incredible party feats and promises of being the last-man or woman standing at the after-party shindig. Unfortunately, they are then found just 90 minutes into the festive bash, candle well and truly burnt at both ends, snoozing quietly in the corner.

The Flirt You’ve had your suspicions about this staff member all year and, as the Christmas party celebrations start to unfold, they confirm your worst fears – they’ve made you the target of their inappropriate advances for the duration of the evening. They start off the night pleasantly enough – innocently offering to buy you a drink - but then suddenly turn, shunning every other member of staff and focus their attention solely on you (or a particularly inappropriate part of your body). They make lewd suggestions almost as an after-thought, sit uncomfortably close to you and growl at other members of their sex who have the misfortune of straying innocently into your vicinity throughout the evening.

The Blabbermouth They’ve been the picture of discretion all year, hiding their simmering discontent at not getting that pay-rise or failing in that promotion behind a façade of normality. But once the festive spirit takes them, their lips become loose and they begin to announce, at an ill-considered and raised volume, how rubbish it is working at their company. They also suddenly find it impossible to maintain company secrets or private disclosures.

Nothing is out of bounds and, before the end of the evening, any confidential company business is suddenly common knowledge among the entire workforce. Often found at the root of any Christmas party squabbles.

The Houdini

Often best-friends with the Peak-too-sooner and the Organiser, the Houdini seems well up for plenty of festive frolics in the lead-up to the staff Christmas do.

They often go as far as helping organise venues for the hardy party animals to go to after the main event has subsided. Unfortunately, this party ‘type’ is usually never around when the après-party begins, having sloped off home for an early-night and a mug of Horlicks discreetly while the rest of the workforce is still in full-party mode.

Usually in their early 30s and often a new parent,

mid-shriek over the untimely ending of their latest love affair.

The Dancer Always a decade beyond their prime, The dancer will bust all manner of old-skool moves at the office party following years of secret attendance at their local community centre’s disco-dancing classes. Thought you’d seen the last of the hand-jive? Oh no you haven’t.

And you’ve never ever seen anyone under the age of 25 attempt that backflip into a John Travolta strut before.

This staff member will not vacate the dance floor – tonight it is their personal stage and the masses of open-mouthed colleagues sitting around the vicinity of the dance floor are their greatest audience.

The Organiser Woe betide anyone who decides to change their Christmas dinner choice at the staff party or bemoans the quality of the venue, The Organiser will be firmly, angrily on your case. This diminutive staff member has spent years scaring the pants off the biggest characters in the staff canteen, honing their withering Paddington stare to perfection. They have a list of everything (including other lists) and have arranged the staff party with military precision. No matter you have just ordered a full round of drinks for you and your colleagues, if The Organiser says it is time to move on, you move on. No argument, you shuffle into the dining room and leave your drinks behind (they’re banned from this room because The Organiser has arranged special Christmas cocktails to be served).

The Gatecrasher Usually a friend (or lover) of a staff member, The Gatecrasher has already been out on their own staff party at a venue across town earlier in the evening. They turn up at yours, risking the wrath of The Organiser and invite themselves to share the paid-for after-dinner activities. Convinced that they have injected new life into your do, they’ll be so sure of their ‘legend’ status they’ll even try and cheer up The Weeper before attempting to solve world famine, challenge The Dancer to a Step Up-style dance-off and demand that your boss tell them exactly what it is like being a PA. Recognise anyone? Wherever you go, and whatever you do, The Gazette hopes that your Christmas Bash is a complete success!

So, do you recognise these Christmas Party ‘Characters’?

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The Dark Horse Quiet as a mouse all year round this pinstriped staff member suddenly, frighteningly finds their outrageous inner self at the Christmas party. While they wouldn’t say boo to a goose in normal office hours they suddenly think it is perfectly acceptable to go round helping themselves to colleague’s drinks and dancing inappropriately close to members of the opposite sex.

They’re also likely to announce that they used to be lead singer in a death metal band!

The Limpet You can easily spot this s(h)elfish staff member at the Christmas party because they are irremovably welded to the side of their departmental boss. They’ll be the one heartily laughing at their boss’s awful jokes, cooing at their boss’s development plan and happily skipping off to the bar and buying their boss drinks all night out of their own pocket. They’ll also be the one left looking heartbroken as their boss exits the party early without hearing their full 14-part eulogy to their boss’s greatness, written in staggering techni-coloured fawning detail (in their own blood). Often to be found, at the end of the night, in the toilets, attempting to outcry The Weeper.

The Weeper The staff member who steadfastly, resolutely refuses to leave their personal problems at the door to the Christmas party venue. They wear their heart on their sleeve and spread their misty-eyed romantic delusions of love through tear-stained tissues thrust into the clammy hands of colleagues unfortunate enough to aimlessly wander into the toilets while The Weeper is

Tudor

GazetteTudor Row Feature

Unparalleled in RowKind or Quality

The Tudor of Lichfield

is ‘The Tea House with a history’ and continues to be a very successful restaurant. The Tudor has been run by the same family for many years alongside a team of friendly welcoming staff, serving delicious breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas – in addition to a selection of homemade cakes that are irresistibly mouth watering. The Tudor is perennially popular with locals and also provides a fascinating draw for visitors to Lichfield, who fall in love with its setting and history, enjoying its ambience and old traditional values and quality of service.

The Tudor of Lichfield Tea House, with its remarkable half timbered period architecture is just a foretaste of this delightful area and holds the promise that all those who venture into Tudor Row will take pleasure in almost everything they find there.

The walkway that runs through Tudor Row was designed to be a little narrow which truly encourages an air of informality and gives Lichfield its own 20th-Century equivalent of The Lanes of Brighton or The Shambles of York.

This exclusive shopping arcade is situated behind theTudor of Lichfield — a wellestablished, family owned restaurant business housed in one of the city's oldest and most iconic buildings.

The Row provides locals and visitors alike with an alternative gateway to the city, creating an interesting link between the old city and the new — with the chance to visit and enjoy a series of exclusive shops.

Running parallel to the Three Spires shopping centre Tudor Row connects Bore Street to Wade Street and provides a charming access point to the Lichfield Garrick Theatre, multi-storey car park, bus station and railway station, as well as to Market Street and the Market Square. Designed by Armstrong Falgate Cook of Burton upon Trent, Tudor Row was first opened in October 1980, winning a European architectural award.

Simply the Salon

Simply THE Salon offers you a city haven retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Step into this little oasis in the middle of Lichfield and let them pamper you with a Clarins facial, an Elemis massage, or an Orly manicure. With over 100 treatments to choose from, and full retail ranges, Simply THE Salon is the treat you are waiting for.

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Bene Umbra

At Bene Umbra they are leading the way in ‘affordable hairdressing’, using the concept of a high class salon but at realistic prices. More and more people are discovering them and liking the great value for money on offer, as shown in their advertisement within this feature. With no nonsense, quality hairdressing, Bene Umbra provides "big bill" salon treatments at an excellent price so you can treat yourself more often! So why not telephone 01543 250676 now, and go along to 9,Tudor Row to be pampered by friendly, experienced stylists.

Tudor Row Barbers

is the place to go if you want a traditional barber providing great haircuts for men and boys. Tudor Row Barbers was established over 13 years ago and Paul and his team are open 6 days a week, offering an excellent mens 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 from Bore Street at the other.

No+Vello

Get a brighter, whiter smile in minutes. Your smile is important! It’s one of the things people notice when they meet you, and a brighter, whiter smile can help you feel

Tudor Row Barbers Established 13 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

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

better about yourself and leave a lasting impression. Beaming White Advanced Teeth Whitening, the fastest and most effective teeth whitening system, is now available in a relaxed environment at select locations at the most affordable price. Whether it’s coffee, tobacco, red wine, or just the effects of time that have stained your teeth, our professional teeth whitening system guarantees you a beaming white smile in minutes.

GazetteTudor Row Feature

Secret Garden

The Secret Garden is a delightful florist providing a personal and professional service that is second to none. It’s lovely to be able to choose your individual blooms and colours in the shop and then watch them being transformed into a stunning floral gift. But this is so much more than a little corner flower shop – they are the inhouse florist to Swinfen Hall Hotel and they also provide a wedding and funeral service. You can make an appointment for a consultation to discuss your individual needs and you’ll be given a professional and considerate design service. Their corporate clients include other local businesses, retail outlets, leisure facilities and prestigious hotels.

Gallery 14

• Established in Sutton Coldfield in 2002 • Ever-changing selection of artwork including open and limited edition prints, original artwork by local artists • Selection of handmade studio glass, including English, Greek, Polish as well as the permanently collectable Isle of Wight glass. Wide range of gifts for each other as well as the home, including a fabulous range of summer bags, scarves and an exquisite range of sterling silver and precious stone jewellery • Complementary giftwrap service • Normally open 7 days a week • Also online at website www.gallery14.co.uk

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Page 51

GazetteWoman

Scents and Sensibility

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

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here’s something about the approach of Christmas and all those lovely festive parties and events that always makes me want to update my perfume. Summer fragrances are great, for instance I wear Paul Smith – Rose when the days are sunny and the evenings long, but come autumn plain florals seem just too ephemeral and I’m looking for something multi layered and luscious.

With this in mind I spent an afternoon sampling the selection on offer in Lichfield and discovered some truly sublime and seductive scents.

Bodyshop stocks a range that covers everything from makeup to body butters, hand creams and haircare, many in the same fragrance so that you can layer products, creating a longer lasting effect. In addition they stock a large range (at least 25) perfume oils, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, body mists, solid perfumes and mini handbag scents, so there’s something for everyone.

I have long been a fan of Bodyshop perfumes, their commitment to Fair Trade essential oils and ingredients give their fragrances a very ‘high end’ result. Many people will remember their best seller ‘White Musk’ - it has now been updated so that it has an added grown up, clean edged finish that is truly lovely. In addition Amazonian Wild Lilly, Moroccan Rose and Japanese Cherry Blossom plus many more are well blended and different enough from each other to please any taste, be you a fresh and citrusy, dark and spicy or fine and florally type of girl. Prices start at just £5 for a solid perfume and go up to £18 (Love Actually eau de parfum). It’s a gem of a shop and well worth a browse, you may find, as I did, a brand new favourite.

Boots has also long been a purveyor of fine fragrances and their Lichfield branch stocks a pretty comprehensive selection of all of our favourites, plus many more unusual and surprising varieties. The perfume counter assistants are always very knowledgeable and know when to just let you wander among the testers before appearing magically as soon as you need some help. They’re smiley, friendly and seem able to read your mind, suggesting scent after scent that I loved.

They have in pre Christmas a great selection of Gift Sets (including mini perfume selections and body creams plus eau de parfum), allowing the lucky recipient to layer their perfume and leave a subtle trace of loveliness wherever they go (not a choking bow wave, we’re far too upmarket for that!) Each week Boots also run a star offer on a different perfume, providing a substantial saving on some of their most loved ranges. A great place to visit to restock on your favourite, or discover something new. Plus, running until Christmas Boots are offering many beloved fragrances including Lou Lou, Anais Anais, Eden, Burberry and some Versace scents at half price.

House of Minster is deceptive; the shop front is a pretty little Georgian facade that gives no hint as to the tardis like interior of an absolute shopping heaven. House of Minster goes back and back covering beautiful interiors, jewellery and gifts and on to Estee Lauder skincare, Dior makeup and Clarins displayed in all their glittering beauty along a counter that reminded me of a classy department store.

The perfume counter also came as a revelation. Not only do they stock Jimmy Choo, Bulgari, Ellie Saab, Hermes, Lalique, Dior and Chanel plus many others, they also cover atelier Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

perfumeries such as Creed (a French perfumier that has been creating beautiful fragrances since 1760) and the Italian maker L T Piver.

I have to admit, I had never heard of this brand but within each simple glass bottle (no gimmicks needed here) is the most sublime fragrance. Each is created to evoke a certain time, day and place – for instance ‘Sardinia at 10am’. When applied to the skin, it instantly evokes warm pine trees, spicy sap and earth, cinnamon, sunshine, maybe a touch of orange grove and sun-kissed skin, it’s totally remarkable as it does that strange olfactory trick of placing you, bodily, in Sardinia on a warm spring morning – magical.

One great idea from House of Minster is the Wish List card. This little card can be used to record the perfumes that you love and then handed to your partner (Mum, boss, best friend, whoever might be lovely enough to buy them for you) so that you never again receive a bottle that you don’t like and can’t use. The ladies in house of Minster are knowledgeable, approachable and not at all scary - if you’ve never been in, you’re missing a treat.

The staff know all of their extensive stock, and can suggest a selection of fragrances should you be on the hunt for something new, or buying as a gift for Christmas.

In fact they regularly serve customers who have driven from as far afield as Cheshire to shop in this beautiful boutique.

We have a 30ml bottle of Bodyshop Indian Night Jasmine Fragrance Mist, a Hugo Boss Nuit Pour Femme gift set containing eau de parfum and body lotion (courtesy of Boots) and a La Perla In Rosa gift set containing eau de toilette, shower gel and body lotion (courtesy of House of Minster) for our lovely readers to win this Christmas.

To be in with a chance of winning one of these three prizes, just let us know the answer to the following question.

Chanel is well known for the creation of couture perfumes, skincare and makeup, but where was Coco Chanel born?

1.

Switzerland 2.

France Italy 3.

Just send your answer in to either gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk or on a postcard to Gazette Perfume Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ (to be inserted) by the competition closing date of Wednesday 19th December. Please state your fragrance preference if any. Winners will receive their prize before Christmas. One entry only per household, duplicates will be disqualified.

Beautiful things at House of Minster

Our Prizes

Just some of the great range at Boots.

Lovely stuff galore of the Bodyshop range

Page 53

GazetteFeature

s r e l l e w e J City What is Jewellers Ark? With the prospect of customers preferring to shop online and via their smart phones, a group of independent jewellers are the first in the UK to take the forward step of setting up an online collaboration, that will offer customers the choice of shopping online or offline at highly competitive prices, but with the same excellent levels of customer service that you expect from your independent high street jeweller, plus even more benefits than you would expect from a national chain.

City Jewellers are one of the founding partners of Jewellers Ark. Owner Paul Shepherd tells us of the many changes they have made to their Market Street store: “Over the past few months we have transformed our First Floor Showroom into a beautiful Designer Jewellery Boutique, where we are able to offer an array of wonderful new designer jewellery brands, to include Trollbeads, the ORIGINAL BEAD COMPANY, Shaun Leane (who was awarded UK Jeweller designer of the year), Babette Wasserman (who has been runner up in this category for two years running), SHO Jewellery - a beautiful collection worn by the stars and

Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

SEVEN London - a collection designed for the fashion conscious male. We also carry collections by Missoma, The Real Effect and our latest collection London Road.”

The move has partially been prompted by the big jewellery manufacturing brands who worry about customers being sold counterfeit or unauthorised products from bedrooms or backstreet operations. Rotary watches said: “We are able to work in partnership on this unique Jewellers Ark project to offer customers lower prices on genuine goods with authentic guarantees. Customers often don’t realise that if a price looks too good to be true then it often is, unless the product is distributed from an authorised dealer, then it wont be covered by our manufacturers warranty. Suddenly a watch for £150 instead of £250 isn’t so cheap when it turns out to be a fake or not to be covered under any warranty. Customers can be assured that

when they’re buying from Jewellersark.co.uk that they are getting the genuine article for the best possible price.”

This co-operative of jewellers is unique on the high street, being able to offer a much larger range of products than could be kept in store. However customers can still benefit from a personal service for items such as adjustment of watches, ring sizing, etc. Paul Shepherd added: “We’ve chosen a technology which will place Jewellersark.co.uk at the most technologically advanced in the market place today, giving our customers the best online and mobile buying experience possible. We’re even building our own ‘API’ that will enable independent and smaller jewellery manufacturers to work with us to sell their products online and extend their reach nationally to a much wider audience.”

Jewellersark.co.uk founders have several hundred years combined jewellery retailing between them and look forward to welcoming their existing and new customers alike to www.jewellersark.co.uk

GazetteDining Out

The newest sensation in town

L

ichfield is rapidly becoming a cosmopolitan centre for the epicurean – especially so, now that BARZAAR at 26 Bird Street, Lichfield, is fully up and running.

BARZAAR is the first Moroccan restaurant in Lichfield to open its doors, offering a plethora of tempting dishes – never seen and probably never heard of before.

Owners of this new exciting venture are Antonio and daughter Jenny. They are both enthusiastic and ebullient owners who will provide the warmest of welcome at their new restaurant.

“Discerning city diners will really appreciate what is on offer here at BARZAAR. We offer such a wide choice of Moroccan specialities. From stuffed mushrooms to lamb tajine, from Lebanese kebabs to chicken and pomegranate, lamb shanks are also on offer! There’s also an excellent choice of vegetarian options;” said Jenny.

Whilst the quality of food is the main priority, the décor and ambience is also very important from the bar right through the eating area.

Antonio and Jenny have bought a stunning new image to their restaurant and it is certainly a break with tradition. Their use of mirrors, bold colours and embossed wall tiles will make you feel that you are in some far distant romantic location.

There is also an excellent choice of wines from across Europe – from Spain, Morocco, Italy, Greece and Cyprus for you to enjoy with your meal.

If live music appeals, BARZAAR will have just that on the late license nights – Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

For a sumptuous Christmas treat try the BARZAAR seven course banquet, available now until Christmas Eve. The lunch time price is £17.95 and the evening service is £23.95.

There is a complementary glass of champagne as diners arrive.

26 Bird Street, Lichfield WS13 6PR 01543 256667 Please call for reservations

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GazetteDining Out

Ma Ma Thai – for “exquisite atmosphere!”

Ma Ma Thai on Bird Street has been open for several years now and continues to provide customers with excellent food in an exquisite atmosphere. As you enter the brightly decorated restaurant you can’t help but be impressed with the fabulous chandeliers and the stunning wallpaper. But look again. It’s not wallpaper, the walls and door panels have been hand painted by an artist from Thailand who was flown in especially to share his art with us.

Ma Ma Thai though is a restaurant of two halves – towards the back of the initial restaurant is another room which is equally sumptuous but with an altogether different atmosphere. Here the effect is a more softly lit, cosy intimate space with darker furniture and large plants; this is an ideal room for larger family gatherings or work outings.

The staff, beautifully dressed in Thai costumes and as elegant as their surroundings, are discreet, polite and efficient, who were there when we needed them but didn’t intrude on our evening.

There is a comprehensive menu with reasonably priced dishes to suit any taste and there are also set menus sometimes the best option when you just can’t decide what to eat.

We were greeted by Surachai, the enthusiastic and cheerful manager/maitre’d who helped us with our menu choices and rather than laughing as we tried to pronounce some of the dishes, he politely corrected the words we’d got wrong.

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GazetteDining Out

RUBY Christmas parties! The Ruby Cantonese and Chinese Restaurant is a fantastic place to host your Christmas parties and meals. With 3 generations of experience making sure that you are happy and well fed, there is no other logical choice! The restaurant is set up with large round tables for a more sociable atmosphere, a private function room with screen and projector for added festivities. The Ruby is somewhat of a landmark in Lichfield. So: “don’t just have a Chinese… have a Ruby” Chinese New Year! An unforgettable evening at the Ruby Cantonese and Chinese Restaurant. Some have even said that: “Chinese New Year at the Ruby is better than the English New Year…period!”

The night consists of a DJ entertaining customers all night with oldies and newbies, an energetic live demonstration of the traditional Chinese Dragon Dance, for good luck! Find out what animal you are in the Chinese zodiac and how that affects your life. All night there is a constant stream of food and drink coming to your table. There are also Karaoke and Fancy Dress competitions with prizes! The night ends with an amazing transformation into a late night exclusive disco. A night not to be missed! The next Chinese New Year at the Ruby will take place between Sunday 10th February 2013 until Friday 15th February 2013. Please ring 01543 251144 for booking and information. Limited spaces so book now to avoid disappointment!

For Bookings or to discuss your requirements, please telephone

01543 251144.

If you are holding a party or special event, the Ruby has a large first floor room for your function.

Qmin promise you a feast for your senses The Christmas Party season is now well underway here at Qmin Lichfield’s leading Indian Restaurant.

Menu options for this season are wide and varied. Choose from a three course set menu, alternatively, Qmin’s extensive a la carte menu is also available. Should you have a special preference, Qmin’s chefs will tailor make a dish to suit your party.

If a vegetarian option is preferred, you can rely on Qmin to provide this option - please see our vegetarian choices on the menu. Please telephone for full details of Qmin’s Christmas party season.

Qmin captures India’s diversity, with more than 120 authentic recipes across the country. Sample their fusion cooking in modern and relaxed surroundings, served by very attentive staff. So, book early and get Christmas started in the best possible way with a memorable festive party at Qmin. Remember, Qmin is rated very highly indeed by trip advisor.

Small or large parties are very welcome.

We invite you to experience the Qmin brand of Indian cuisine and promise you a feast for your senses.

Remember, bookings are now being taken for the Festive Season, so contact Qmin soon.

Call Qmin on 01543 255000 www.qmin.co.uk

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GazetteDining Out

Orange Liqueur Biscuits A festive treat

• Special Christmas Lunch Menu £12 for 3 courses • Christmas Evening Banquet £19 for 4 courses • Come And Celebrate the Year 2013 • Chinese New Year! Year of the Snake!

Feb 10th to 13th 2013

T

here’s nothing quite like the smell of home baked biscuits. This Christmas, why not try these festive Orange Liqueur Biscuits? They’re easy to make and taste great. The liqueur adds a Christmassy twist and they’re bound to win you compliments if served with drinks or after lunch with coffee.

They take 45 minutes to make, but you can prepare the dough beforehand, cut out the biscuits and freeze them raw. Simply put a few in the oven whenever you need them.

Come and visit the AWARD WINNING

Ingredients – To make 36 biscuits.

2 hard boiled egg yolks - This may sound strange but egg yolks add a golden colour and richness 225g (8 oz) plain flour 125g (4 oz) caster sugar Salt to taste Ground cinnamon 125g (4 oz) butter 2 x 15ml (2 tbsps) orange liqueur Push the egg yolks through a sieve and into a mixing bowl. Sift in the flour and mix well. Make a well in the centre of the mixture and add the sugar plus a pinch of salt and cinnamon (to taste).

Cut the butter into small pieces and, a little at a time, work into the mixture. Add the liqueur and form into a firm paste. Leave this for one hour in a cool place to rest (not the fridge).

Preheat the oven to 375 F or 190 C (Gas mark 5).

Roll out the paste on a lightly floured surface and cut out whatever shapes you wish. Place biscuits on a lined baking tray and bake for 10 – 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Page 58 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Enjoy high class cuisine in a great atmosphere and luxurious surroundings Established over 20 years

• • • • •

Surrounded by 3 car parks.

All free after 6.30pm

Christmas Party Bookings are now being taken.

Superb menu with a vast choice selection.

Experienced chefs from Hong Kong & Malaysia.

Open lunchtimes and till late Superb function room, seats upto 65 Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388

IN LICHFIELD DECEMBER 2012 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.

Sun 2 – Tue 4 Dec Christmas Voices 10.30am at The George Hotel. Intimate Theatre presents an entertaining compilation of festive poetry, music and drama. Tickets £9.75 Christmas Afternoon Tea at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 £10 per person, served from December 3rd Tue 4 Dec Songs for a City

5.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A celebration of Christmas for commerce, business, industry and the voluntary sector. All welcome. Refreshments kindly sponsored by Keelys Solicitors. FREE entry (donations encouraged).

used and refreshments are included in the cost. £2.

Storytelling at the Crib

Wed 5 & Thu 6 Dec Christmas Flower Arranging 10.30am at The George Hotel. Includes coffee on arrival, a flower arranging demonstration and three-course carvery lunch. £22.

Wed 5 Dec Tots at Erasmus Darwin House 10.00am to 11.00am at Erasmus Darwin House. Every fortnight children aged 2-4 years, accompanied by an adult, can enjoy stories, songs and simple craft activities in the beautiful museum setting of Erasmus Darwin House. This week's session is called: A 'Crafty' Christmas. All materials

Lichfield Christmas Festival Weekend

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Dec Lichfield Christmas Festival Weekend 10.00am to 4.00pm at Lichfield Market Square & surrounding streets, Erasmus Darwin House, Samuel Johnson Birthplace.

On Saturday Celebrate the festive season with a weekend of festive events and activities throughout Lichfield city. Come along to Lichfield Market Square to shop at the popular Lichfield market and relax with a mulled wine whilst listening to music from Cannock Salvation Army Band. Keep the children entertained with free face painting, a visit from Father Christmas and a festive market trail and the whole family can join in with Walsall Operatic Society singing carols at 2pm. Erasmus Darwin House opens with free entry at 10am - 4pm, with Georgian festivities including stalls, a tea room, cakes and gifts. At 2pm join in a festive tour through the city of 'Christmas through the ages' with one of Lichfield's Green Badge Guides ending with refreshments at The George Hotel. Book in advance call 01543 412112 tickets £4.50 per person. At 4pm and 6pm the Samuel Johnson Birthplace opens for 'A Georgian Family Christmas' with festive music, storytelling and activities for all the family.

On Sunday Pick up your festive gifts and delicious local produce at Lichfield Chamber of Trade and Commerce Christmas Fayre and Lichfield Christmas Farmers' Market on Sunday. Enjoy live music and dancing, free face painting and a festive market trail on Lichfield Market Square from 10am. Don't miss Lichfield Mysteries performing 'The Nativity' at 2pm, followed by a 'King and Angels' fancy dress competition at 2.45pm for children who would like to come to the event in costume.

Fri 7 Dec Staffordshire Cakes and Ale Trail 8pm at the St Mary's Centre, Market Square, Lichfield. Meeting of the Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society. Visitors welcome, £3.

Refreshments available from 7 30pm. For more info call 01543 416144.

Free beginner running course 9.30am to 10.30am at Beacon Park. Free six week course open to all and led by friendly qualified leaders with links to Lichfield Running Club. Join in and give running a go! Meet at Lakeside Bistro in Beacon Park.

Storytelling at the Crib 10.30am or 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral. See Wed 5 Dec for details.

10.30am or 11.00 or 3.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A free story-telling activity ideal for pre-schools, nurseries and primary schools. Booking essential - Tel: 01543 306100 FREE entry (donations encouraged) Thu 6 Dec – Sun 6 Jan Alice in Wonderland At Lichfield Garrick. From the creative team of the record breaking 2011 production of A Christmas Carol comes another glittering adaptation of a classic tale. Set in a Christmas circus, Lewis Carroll's timeless story will enthrall the whole family.

Thu 6 Dec Lichfield Farmers' Market

9.00am to 3.00pm at Lichfield Market Square. And on the first Thursday of every month (except January). A fantastic range of beautiful stalls, selling wholesome locally-produced food and other goods, including an excellent choice of handmade arts and crafts.

Christmas Lunch with 1940s Entertainment 11.45 am at National Memorial Arboretum.

A fabulous festive afternoon, with nostalgic entertainment and scrumptious food. £20, payment required in advance, early booking recommended. Tel: 01283 792333

Songbird: A tribute to Eva Cassidy

7.30pm (doors open at 6.45pm) at The Guildhall. An intimate evening of live music and narration, paying tribute to the life story of the late Eva Cassidy.

Performances by singer and violinist Rebecca Kelly and her accompanying musicians.

The Lunar Men 7.30pm at Lichfield Library. An evening of storytelling, song and improvised music.

A brilliant full moon shines down across the Midlands. Tonight an extraordinary meeting will take place. The men of the Lunar Society are gathering and the painter Joseph Wright, a patient of the brilliant Dr Erasmus Darwin, will capture the event in his lucid imagination. A momentous decision will be reached. This is the story of the Midlands' magnificent past in an exciting collaboration between Storyteller Maria Whatton and Musician Sarah Matthews. Exquisite and comic folktales blend with sophisticated discourse. The world of the English Enlightenment is conjured by music and word. This is a meeting of celebration: a night that will change the world.

Sat 8 Dec Carols Old and New 7.30pm at the Lichfield Heritage Centre.

Popular carols for everyone to join in with and seasonal choral pieces from the Lichfield Singers. £8, £6 concessions.

S&J Music 01543 268909. www.lichfieldsingers.org Christmas Fair 10.30am - 12.00 noon at Martin Heath Hall. Tombola, Posh Junk, Jewellery, Page 59

GazetteWhat’s on

Toiletries, Gifts, Toys, Books, Dvd's, Cakes & Cards. Refreshments & Raffle Carols in the Park Free entry all day at Museum Gardens, Beacon Park. Feeling festive? Come to the park and sing some favourite Christmas carols and songs.

Christmas Fayre 10.00am to 2.30pm at The Guildhall.

Different stalls with Christmas gifts at reasonable prices. Refreshments area with homemade cakes. Free entry.

Carols in the Trenches 7.00pm at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. A re-enactment of the 1914 Christmas Truce in the museum’s trenches, including readings and carols from soldiers at the time. This event may include gunfire and loud explosions.£3 adult, £2 child, £6 family (2 adults and up to 3 children) Carols old and new from The Lichfield Singers 7.30pm at Lichfield Heritage Centre.

Popular carols for everyone to join in with and seasonal choral pieces from the choir. £8, £6 concessions.

Lichfield Cathedral Chorus - A Christmas Fantasy 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A delightful selection of music on a Christmas theme to get you into the festive spirit. Conducted

by Ben Lamb with the strings of the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra.

Ralph Vaughan Williams - Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Gerald Finzi - In Terra Pax, Ben Lamb - This is the Truth sent from above, Ben Lamb - Maria durch ein' Dornwald ging, Ralph Vaughan Williams Tallis Fantasia Climax Blues Band 8.00pm at the Guildhall. We are delighted to welcome back the wonderful Climax Blues Band to the Guildhall for the first time since the tragic death of their singer and founder-member Colin Cooper.

Sun 9 Dec All that glitters – making festive decorations 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Chasewater Country

Lighting of Christmas tree & St Nicholas Service (with the Cathedral Toy Appeal) 3.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Please bring a new toy (suitable for ages 0-16 years) to support and give hope to local children who are victims of domestic abuse. All toys received for the appeal will be donated to The Pathways Project and used to help children who are resettled in Lichfield, Burntwood and Tamworth. For more information visit www.pathwayproject.co.uk If you are not able to attend the service, toys will gladly be received in advance (between the hours of 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday) at The Old Stables next to Chapters Coffee Shop or the Verger's Ducket in the Cathedral.

Tue 11 Dec The Foden Story (From Steam to Diesel) 2.30pm at St. Michael’s Church Hall. David Bradbury will give us a potted history of the Foden family of Engineers. This programme of events is part of the fellowship and outreach of St Michael-onGreenhill Church providing additional income for the refurbishment of St. Michael’s Church Hall. £3 donation.

Candle-lit Christmas Carol Concert in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice 7.30pm at Swinfen Hall Hotel. Make a wonderful start to the festive season and join the candle-lit Christmas carol concert as the fabulous Sutton Coldfield Community Choir take to the stage.

Set in the oak-paneled ballroom, where a stunning 20-foot Christmas tree takes pride of place, and complemented with coffee and mince pies served during the interval. Enjoy an uplifting and memorable evening with all proceeds going to the Acorns Children's Hospice Trust. For dining before or after the concert Tel: 01543 481494. Booking is essential.

Gruesome and Ghostly Tours 7.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Enjoy a spooky Halloween time with this evening tour set to make your blood curdle and your spine tingle!

Rounded of with a visit to a local pub for refreshments. Booking essential. £6.25 Evening Organ Concert Series 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Enjoy this seasonal concert with Lichfield Cathedral Organist, Martyn Rawles. Martyn will be taking special requests! Tickets available from Lichfield Cathedral Bookshop or Tel: 01543 306150. £10 Wed 12 Dec Mayor's Carols for Christmas 7.00pm at The Guildhall. Traditional carols and lessons round the crib, with local choirs, mulled wine and mince pies. Free entry (restricted seating)

Park Innovation Centre. Join in with some festive fun - come along and make that original Christmas decoration for your tree.

Page 60 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Thu 13 & Fri 14 Dec Christmas Lunch with 1940s Entertainment See Thu 6 Dec for details.

Sun 16 Dec Carols in the Chapel All day at National Memorial Arboretum.

Enjoy carols in the beautiful Millennium Chapel with a cup of tea and a mince pie. £7.50, payment required in advance, early booking recommended.

Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th December Senior Citizens’ Festive Lunches 12.30pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 Enjoy a 3 course festive lunch with sherry on arrival and entertainment from our pianist. £17 per person Thu 13 Dec Lichfield Civic Society Meeting 7.45pm at St Mary's Centre. Lichfield Conduit Lands Trust - A Talk by Bob White of the Trust. Non-members welcome (£3 at the door) Fri 14 Dec Free beginner running course See Fri 7 Dec for details.

Storytelling at the Crib 4.00pm at Lichfield Cathedral. See Wed 5 Dec for details.

Historical Cookery and Mayhem - The Annual Christmas Special 7.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. Here we are again; the season really sneaks up on us.

Get ready for the festive table with Uncle Roly and Simon ‘Santa's Little Elf' Smith as they show you some alternative recipes dating back from Tudor times to Victoria's court.We guarantee you will leave with some tooth-some ideas for your Yuletide feasts and some ideas for festive drinks as well!

State of Undress Christmas Show 8.30pm at the Guildhall. Music, Merriment, Mistletoe and Mayhem! After memorable performances at last year’s Roots & Folk Festival and this year’s Fuse our favourite ‘fiddlesome’ five-piece from Dorset are back with their hugely entertaining Christmas show. Expect plenty of festive favourites such as Fairy Tale of New York, and I Saw Three Ships delivered in Fab-Five’s own unique way.

So put your Santa hat on, grab your mistletoe (watch out if you’re in the front row!) - the party starts here!

Sat 15 – Mon 31 Dec Vic Bowcott's Painting for Pleasure 10.00am to 4.00pm at Lichfield Library.

City of Lichfield Concert Band Christmas Concert Sat 7.30pm (and Sun at 2.30pm) at The Guildhall. Enjoy an evening of festive music from a popular local concert band. £8 adult, £7 concessions. Tickets available from S&J Music, Bird Street.

Mon 17 Dec Storytelling at the Crib 6 performances (10.30am, 11.00am, 2.00pm, 2.30pm, 3.00pm and 4.00pm) at Lichfield Cathedral. See Wed 5 Dec for details.

Tue 18 Dec Christmas Carols 7.30pm at St John's Church, Wall.

Communal carol singing, with refreshments. Free entry Christmas Party Nights 7.30pm at The George Hotel, Bird Street, Lichfield T: 01543 414822 Enjoy a 3 course meal and a disco in the Garrick Suite From £21 to £33 per person, throughout December and 5th January 2013 Wed 19 Dec Choral Evensong live on BBC Radio 3 3.30pm (Please arrive no later than 3.10pm) at Lichfield Cathedral. With the Lichfield Cathedral Choir. FREE entry (donations encouraged) Jazz: Fret & Fiddle 8.30pm (Venue to be confirmed – call 01543 262223). Following their fabulous performance at this year’s RAJB we are proud to play host to the award-winning Swing Trio Fret and Fiddle at the inaugural Lichfield Arts Presents Jazz.

Thu 20 & Fri 21 Dec Christmas Lunch with 1940s Entertainment See Thu 6 Dec for details.

Thu 20 Dec Christmas Farmers' Market 9.00am to 3.00pm at Market Square. The last chance to buy your fresh local produce, arts and crafts before Christmas.

Lichfield Cathedral Chorus Carol Concert 8.00pm at Lichfield Cathedral. With Salvation Army Cannock Citadel Band Arrive early to avoid disappointment.

FREE entry (donations encouraged) Fri 21 Dec Free beginner running course See Fri 7 Dec for details.

Christmas by Candlelight

GazetteWhat’s on 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A programme of popular Christmas music and readings at Lichfield Cathedral, in support the Cathedral Choir Exchange with our link diocese of Matlosane, South Africa. This concert is a Christmas must and is guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit!

The evening will be hosted by popular comedian Andy Hamilton. Buy your tickets (£10, £15) from Lichfield Cathedral Bookshop for this popular Christmas treat!

Call 01543 306150 or email bookshop@lichfield-cathedral.org or visit the bookshop in The Close, Lichfield, WS13 7LD. The Stumble At the Guildhall. A six piece band from Preston - these guys are one of the very best British blues bands around at the moment.

Sat 22 Dec Shoppers' Carol Services 12 noon (Young Voices) and 4.00pm (Cathedral Choristers) at Lichfield Cathedral Take a break from the Christmas Shopping and join in some uplifting carol singing. Each service will last approximately 30 minutes. Entrance is free and spirits will be high!

Sun 23 Dec Carol Service 4.00pm at Emmanuel Christian Centre, Netherstowe, Lichfield. Join in the traditional Christmas carol service. Free Entry.

Lichfield Cathedral Carol Service 6.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. FREE entry (donations encouraged) Mon 24 Dec T'was the Night Before Christmas 9.30am to 11.30am and 12.30pm to 2.30pm at National Memorial Arboretum. A morning and afternoon session of children’s entertainment including songs, games, stories and refreshments.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. £10, payment required in advance - early booking recommended Family Crib Service 3.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A celebration of Christmas in drama and song: by children, for children! Come and join in the fun and see the beautiful Christmas Crib. FREE entry (donations encouraged) Choral Evensong 5.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. FREE entry (donations encouraged) Midnight Eucharist 11.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Chamber Choir (with the use of incense). Chamber Choir will be singing carols from 11pm.

FREE entry (donations encouraged) Tue 25 Dec Christmas Day Lunch Enjoy a fine dining at Netherstowe House

Christmas Day Eucharist 8.00am at Lichfield Cathedral. Sung Eucharist for Christmas Day. Christmas Day Evening Prayer 5.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. With Carols at the crib.

Wed 26 Dec St Stephen's Day Morning Prayer 9.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Darwin Walk Winter 10.00am at Bunkers Hill car park. The Boxing Day Walk. Go to www.darwinwalk.org.uk for more information or Tel: 01543 252246 St Stephen's Day Eucharist 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

St Stephen's Day Lichfield Cathedral Carol Service 3.30pm (Congregation should be seated by 3.15pm) at Lichfield Cathedral. Sung by Lichfield Cathedral Choir.

Tue 1 Jan Mince pie special 11.00am to 2.00pm at Chasewater Railway. Relax on the heated steam train whilst enjoying the view from the window and nibbling on a mince pie. Tea room open.

Sunday 6th January 2013 The Snow Queen 2.30pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa, Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield T: 0121 308 3751 A magical and fun theatrical production of The Snow Queen adventure for all the family – come along and join in the freezing fun! £8 per ticket, family tickets (2 adults & 2 children): £28 Sat 12 Jan Science on Saturday 10.00am to 12noon at Erasmus Darwin House. Science club for children aged 711. This month's meeting is Magnets and Electricity: Make a Motor. £4 per child.

Be a Chorister for a Day (Boys) 11.30am to 6.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Do you enjoy singing? Want to sing in Lichfield Cathedral? Come and learn about life as a Chorister and sing with the Lichfield Cathedral Choir during Evensong.

Sat 26 Jan Be a Chorister for a Day (Girls) 11.30am to 6.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral

Contact details for listed venues: Beacon Park – Lichfield WS13 6QZ. Tel: 01543 308869 Chasewater Country Park - Pool Rd, Brownhills WS8 7NL. Tel: 01543 370607 Emmanuel Christian Centre Netherstowe, Lichfield, WS13 6TS. Erasmus Darwin House - Beacon St,

Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260 George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6NE Lichfield Arts - Tel 01543 262223. Email info@lichfieldarts.org.uk Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. Tel: 01543 306150 Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield. Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Heritage Centre - St Mary's Centre, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 256611 Lichfield Library - The Friary, Lichfield, WS13 6QG Lichfield Tourist Information Centre – See Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Tel: 01543 412112 Longdon Village Hall - Brook End, Longdon, Rugeley WS15 4PN Martin Heath Hall - Christ Church Lane

Christ Church Lichfield National Memorial Arboretum - Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792333 Netherstowe House - Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6AY. Tel: 01543 254270 St John's Church - Wall, Lichfield WS14 0AS. Tel: 01543 411361 St. Michael's Church Hall – St Michael’s Rd, Lichfield WS13 6SN. Tel: 01543 262211 Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 Staffordshire Regiment Museum Defence Medical Services, Lichfield WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434395 Swinfen Hall Hotel – Swinfen, Lichfield WS14 9RE Tel: 01543 481494

Lichfield Cathedral Chamber Choir Concert Sat 15 Dec Lichfield Cathedral Chamber Choir Concert Lichfield Cathedral Chamber Choir’s concert on 15th December in the Cathedral will be a double first. Husband and wife team Martyn Rawles, conductor and Cathedral Organist, and Harriet Hunter, soloist, will perform together with the Choir for the first time. In addition the Choir will be joined by the Corelli Orchestra for their first concert together. Described recently by The Independent as 'top-notch' and as being a 'impeccable instrumental ensemble', the Corelli Orchestra is one of the country's few regionally-based periodinstrument orchestras. Resident at the Pittville Pump Room Cheltenham since 2003, and directed from the harpsichord by its founder Warwick Cole, it is modelled in its style and composition on eighteenth-century court orchestras.

The concert will comprise seasonal Bach Cantatas 36, 61 and 147 written for Advent and includes one of Bach’s most popular compositions: Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring. Joining Harriet Hunter will be Simon Ponsford (alto), Oliver Johnstone (tenor) and Philip Lancaster (bass). The Chamber Choir is encouraging children and students to attend with specially reduced tickets available from the Lichfield Garrick.

The Concert marks the start of a busy season for the Choir which will also sing for the Fire Service Carol Service on December 9th, Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and will culminate with its second BBC Radio 2 broadcast in the Spring.

Tickets: £12.50 (£5 children and students) from Lichfield Garrick Box Office.

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