Lichfield Gazette July/Aug 2014

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

July/August 2014 ISSUE 62

Chairman’s Debate see page 20

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

COLLIS LGZ

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CONTENTS

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

12 A British Brewing Revolution?

Freedom Brewery, Abbots Bromley. Win a selection pack.

42 Returning Soldiers Hundreds of returning soldiers parade through Lichfield

46 A Quiet Hero The wartime remembrances of George Parry

48 August 1914 in Lichfield

By John Gallagher

52 Do you remember when?

Fasinating images from ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’

54 La Mer Summer beach blues

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

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CONTRIBUTORS • Caz Jones

• Joss Musgrove Knibb

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• Robert Yardley • Phil Preece

• Dave Gallagher • John Gallagher • Byron Lewis

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Contact the Gazette see page 62

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48

Letter Editor A

from the

Bin Dance

You put your blue bin out, your brown bin out.

In-out, in-out, but the bin man ain’t about.

You phone the council number and you hang around…

And then you realize that Unison’s “walked out”!

You leave your brown bin out, your blue bin out.

In-out, in-out, your mind is filled with doubt.

You check the council website and you have a surf around…

Seems no one can tell you what it’s all about.

You put your blue bin back, your brown bin back.

In-out, in-out, cuz the bin man ain’t about.

They usually come on Thursday but just to catch you out…

They change it to a Tuesday when no one is about!

Bless ‘em!

Regards, Paul Oakley

July/August 2014 Issue 62

ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE

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

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

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

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

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

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Festival Best Dressed Window competition

ecently Lichfield Festival organised a ‘Best Dressed Window’ competition with many city centre businesses taking part. The judging took place on Friday 11 July and the panel was headed up

by Mayor of Lichfield Cllr Norma Bacon.

The event was sponsored by Drayton Manor, and Bijou at No 15 (Tamworth Street) were worthy winners.

Owner Gemma said: "It took three of us eight hours of cutting up festival guides and affixing then to our mannequin."

Congratulations to all those who took part, and to Michelle Jennings for organising it.

Winners - Bijou at No15, Tamworth St.

Highly commended - Sewing Shop, Tamworth St.

New to Lichfield - Fortesques, Market Place.

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WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT!

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

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

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

might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than Mon 18 Aug to ‘Minster The Cat Competition’ PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Or by email to minsterthecat@hotmail.co.uk subject "Minster Comp". One entry only please (or disqualified).

Netherstowe House is a beautifully renovated Grade II Listed property and Fine Dining Restaurant. This boutique hotel has the elegance of a fine old country house, excellent service plus the contemporary conveniences of every modern luxury you could possibly desire. The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette.

Good luck!!

Congratulations to Mrs Carol Hodgson of Furnival Crescent who spotted Minster on page 68 of the June issue.

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LG JUL/AUG 14

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Dig It !

Gardeners Festival 23rd - 24th August

he very first Gardeners Festival in our beautiful Cathedral City will be held on the 23rd and 24th August 2014.

Jan Leytham-Gain, part of the Festival team commented: “There will be a fabulous Gardeners Market on Minster Pool Walk which be full of plants to help you extend the season, plus locally grown vegetables and a dazzling array of garden products. All intermingled with a range of beautiful, garden inspired homewares, all from local businesses and all weekend. A little music,The Picnic Parlour and The Outdoor real ale bar will also be there to help you meander.

“Minster Hall Walled Garden will have a little wildlife friendly haven and Three Spires Shopping Centre will be host to Lichfield's 'Outside Matters' on the Sunday, featuring the Open Allotment scheme, Blooming Lichfield, the award winning Beacon Park, National Gardens Scheme and many other local community projects that you can join in this beautiful and green county.

“Get yourself a Bee Trail Map from the Visit Lichfield Gazebo and let it lead you to vouchers, offers and details of demonstrations available from participating shops and restaurants around the city centre.

“The delightful Alys Fowler of BBC Gardeners World will be talking about growing for bees and bugs, with a chance to ask her your questions later on. You can see her at The Lichfield Garrick on Sunday 24th August 2014 Tickets £10.00 available fromwww.lichfieldgarrick.com “We are really looking forward to seeing you....We can help you Dig it, Grow it and Love it in your garden just that little bit more!”

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A Feast of Fireworks!

Chris Pearce – MD of Jubilee Fireworks, explains why the ‘Festival of Fireworks’ at Catton Hall is now a major player in the national outdoor event calendar

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raditionally in England, fireworks have been associated with one major celebration – bonfire night! A time when families would venture out into the damp November evening to partake in a ritual that has been re-enacted for centuries, in memory of the failed attempt by the infamous Mr Guido Fawkes to blow up the Houses or Parliament in 1605.

Fifteen years on, the Festival of Fireworks is now well-established as one of the premier events in the annual fireworks calendar, attracting thousands of spectators to the elegant grounds of Catton Hall in South Derbyshire. The move from Shugborough took place in 2008, placing the new venue within easy reach of fireworks enthusiasts from Lichfield, Derby and the towns and villages of Warwickshire.

Since the turn of the Millennium, our attitude to fireworks has changed somewhat. Increasingly, fireworks are used to celebrate weddings and private ‘significant occasions’ and pyrotechnics often feature on TV programmes such as the X-Factor and similar glitzy productions. Within the UK, there are now several major fireworks competitions, where companies compete to put on the most spectacular display – scrutinized by members of the public and a team of professional judges. It is all very different from the situation twenty or so years ago, where fireworks displays outside of November 5th were relatively rare.

In recent years, the Festival has acquired something of an international flavour – with firework display teams from europe and the far-east making an appearance. The 2014 event will feature Thailand Fireworks, along with Serena Foyle Pyromusical Design, the famous firm of Kimbolton Fireworks and festival organisers Jubilee Fireworks, whose outstanding displays are seen at many major venues, including Alton Towers.

The Festival of Fireworks was inaugurated in 1999 at Shugborough Hall – featuring five British companies who were given the opportunity to demonstrate their work alongside each other. The event, the first of its kind in the UK, proved to be a success, with each participant making a great effort to show off their pyrotechnic design skills.

The Festival of Fireworks offers the opportunity to experience for yourself spectacular and stunning examples of the art of pyrotechnics from some of the world’s best display companies. Ideal for a family outing, why not bring a picnic and enjoy this breathtaking show? The date for 2014 is Saturday September 6th and its worth reserving tickets well in advance.

More more information, please call 01384 402266 or visit www.jubileefireworks.com

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A British Brewing Revolution?

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

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hat’s your favourite tipple? Are you a wine buff or maybe a classic gin and tonic is more to your taste? It’s quite likely that many of you reading this will be part of the growing movement of British brewing enthusiasts. For many years, British brewing had a rather unglamorous image. It was commonly held that home grown beers, ales, ciders and perrys were a s o m ew h a t Tim Massey - Director acquired taste and could not stand up to the sparkling, lighter produce of our E u r o p e a n neighbours. How wrong we were.

Recently, I visited Freedom Brewery in Abbots Bromley, where I was given a tour by Director Tim Massey, and got to sample some of the utterly delicious tipples coming out of this gem of British Brewing.

The brewery is set in rolling countryside in the middle of a 2,000 acre estate. You reach it by travelling down a long, wide and leafy lane (scattering chickens as you pass) that passes through deciduous woodland and shimmering wheat fields. Its brewing vats rise out of the landscape as a surprise, gleaming silver in the sun.

As you approach, look out on your right for a heart-shaped coppice on the hillside (planted to reflect the ‘Freedom Brewery Heart’).

The brewery is small by the standards of mass produced brewing, but modern and bustling. The directors take a very hands on roll, and everywhere there is the smell of hops and malt.

Here,Tim tells us a little about the brewery that is so close to his heart...

JMK: Tell me about Freedom Brewery TM: My business partner, Andrew Taylor and I bought the brewery about nine months ago now, after I’d tried to buy it three times before! The brewery was started in 1995 and it was ahead of its time as there was no one really doing craft lagers then. It was known as a pioneer of English craft lager. We’ve probably grown by 50% over the last year. We’re currently spending £800,000 on a new brew house, new kegging machine, new boiler, basically everything we’ve got is new plus new fermentation and maturation tanks. We’re New fermentation and maturation tanks

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building a wetlands drainage system as well. All the water we use in the brewing process comes direct from a bore-hole into the Burton watertable. The water will flow out into our wetlands draininage system and five acres of ditches, reeds and willow will naturally clean it before it goes back into the watercourse. We’re looking at creating our own electricity supply too.

JMK: What do you produce here?

TM: We’re a multi-award-winning brewery, including International brewing awards for most of our products. We brew six products of our own and 30% of our beers are organic. There are six main beers, Freedom Four which is our biggest seller, Freedom Pilsner which is an original beer, Freedom Organic Lager and Freedom Organic Dark which is one of Jamie Oliver’s favourite beers and Pioneer which is like a pale ale, plus Freedom Stout. We also brew a beer called Barbecoa, which is Italian for ‘freedom’, for Jamie Oliver’s Italian Restaurants. It’s the biggest seller there. We brew a beer for The London Edition Hotel and we do a beer for The Red Bar in Grosvenor House.

JMK: There used to be a bit of snobbery about English beers, that seems to have gone.

TM: There’s a craft beer movement going on with small producers taking a lot of time producing keg as opposed to cask beers (cask is hand pulled) and these craft beers are really flying.

The public are moving away from big brewers, big advertising, big chemicals and additives.

JMK: Are most of your staff local?

TM: We have 18 employees and all bar one are local. We’ll double the size of our workforce over the next 12 months. I’m from Stoke, living in Eccleshall. Pretty much everyone is local here JMK: What makes Freedom beers different?

TM: The big difference is that underneath us is the Burton water table, the best brewing water in the world. Over the water table is a bed of sulphur and gypsum.The water filters through that and you get a very hard, very high mineral content water. They used to call it the ‘Burton snatch’...the sulphury smell of the water. We’re unusual in brewing with completely untreated hard water (it’s constantly tested for impurities) and this means that we need to de-scale the tanks every 2 weeks, but we believe that the water makes the difference.

Also, we only use water, hops, malted barley and yeast and occasionally some other grains like wheat. There are no additives in our beer at all. All our beers are vegan, none are pasteurised. Lager is supposed to be matured for quite a long time.

Ours is matured for at least four weeks so it takes five weeks minimum to make a lager. Big commercial brewers make their lagers in a matter of days. It’s that maturity that gives you a fuller flavour, a better mouth feel and natural carbonisation.

JMK: So how are the beers created?

TM: The difference between lager and ale is

that lager uses bottom fermenting and ale top fermenting yeast. After a week of fermentation we transfer it to a maturation tank where it’s chilled down to minus 1.Then you crop the yeast off. The lager is matured for a minimum of four weeks, it goes to filtration and then it’s kegged or bottled.

All of our lagers are naturally carbonated, no additives, so that you don’t get the ‘gassiness’ of some lagers.

JMK: Can you tell me a little about the new brewery?

TM:The new brewery enables us to brew four times a day. We’ve been brewing seven days a week for quite a while now, and everyone’s a little bit tired! It will increase production by four times, when we have more tanks we can increase it by ten times. We’ve brought our own malt mill and silos which means we can we produce probably around 12,000 barrels and we expect to double that by next year.

JMK: Is brewing fun?

TM: It’s the best job I’ve ever had, I couldn’t be happier. It’s exactly what I want to do. I’m in the middle of a beautiful 2,000 acre estate and everyone who works here is great. We’re not trying to be clever, we’re just trying to brew the best lager we can brew with the facilities we’ve got.

WIN WIN WIN

We have a taster pack containing six 330ml bottles of Freedom Ales to give away in our Freedom Brewery competition.

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

Q. Jamie Oliver’s favourite Freedom beer is

A. Freedom Organic Dark

B. Freedom Stout

C. Freedom Pioneer To enter (entrants must be 18 years or over), just send your answer, name, address and contact details to Gazette Freedom Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of 18th August 2014. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified.

Good Luck! For more information on Freedom Brewery go to www.freedombrewery.com Please drink responsibly www.drinkaware.co.uk

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Lichfield Proms Sponsors Announced

Whittington Country and Craft Fair

Whittington Country and Craft Fair will take place on Saturday September 6th at Bit End Field, Whittington, WS14 9LQ. The event starts at 10am and ends at 4.30pm. This year there will be new attractions including Interactive Ferretworld, and Punch and Judy as well as old favourites such as the Reach-Up Tower, animals (from Meerkats to Llamas), the Quack Pack, a huge Craft Tent, vintage cars, tractor rides, dog shows and so much more. Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children) £10, Adults £5, Concessions £3. Free parking. Further information call 01543 432848, or go to www.whittingtonandfisherwick.org.uk All profits go to local voluntary groups and charities. The event’s Principal Sponsor is Tempest Ford.

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ichfield District Council is busy organising this summer’s Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park which will be held on the 6th September, and is keen to thank this year’s sponsors for their support. Sponsors of Lichfield Proms 2014 include: Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust, Brownhill Hayward Brown, Central England Co-operative, Staffordshire County councillors - Terry Finn, David Smith, Caroline Wood, Janet Eagland and Alan White - Staffordshire Local Community Fund, MoveCorp, Thornton Claverley IFA Ltd, PJS Autos Lichfield, Beacon Street Garage, Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce, Holiday Inn Express, Virgin Active, Keeleys Solicitors, Merry Maids, The Boss Partnership, Husse,Ventrolla, Lichfield City Council, Moseleys Solicitors, Secret Garden and the Lichfield Gazette.

Now in its sixteenth year, the free family event brings thousands of people together from across the region to enjoy an evening of music, picnicking and fireworks. This year’s concert is set to feature music from the City of Lichfield Concert Band and The British Police Symphony Orchestra. There will also be solos from Claire Prewer and Jane Stevenson. The night will be brought to an end with a fireworks display and rousing proms anthems. The event will also feature activities for children, food and drink stalls and a proms shop, where concert-goers can stock up on their patriotic flags and hats.

While Lichfield Proms is a free event, and everyone is welcome to bring their own seating and picnic blankets, for just £10 music lovers can book a seat at a VIP table in front of the stage.VIP seats cost £10 each and can be bought in fours or sixes. To reserve a VIP table, please call Lichfield District Council on 01543 308775 or email proms@lichfielddc.gov.uk Parking will be available on the night at Beacon Park for a donation of £5, which includes a Lichfield Proms programme. For the latest Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park news and special offers, visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms

Long-serving hospital volunteers and fundraisers honoured

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Sue Partington

Lichfield Proms 2014 sponsors Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

he work of dedicated volunteers, who give up their time to run the Friends of Samuel Johnson Community Hospital organisation, has been honoured.

In June, Burton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust treated 100 hospital volunteers to afternoon tea and then presented long service awards at an annual presentation night at Burton’s Pirelli Stadium. Among those attending were members of the Friends of Samuel Johnson, including Sue Partington, who received a badge marking her five years of service from the Trust’s Chief Executive Helen Ashley.

Sue joined the Friends’ committee in September 2009 and helps with fundraising for the hospital to pay for extras that make the hospital experience better and more comfortable for patients and their families. The Friends of Samuel Johnson Community Hospital has been supporting Lichfield hospitals for more than 36 years. It was originally founded in 1977 as The League of Friends of St Michael's & Victoria Hospital and changed its name in 2007 to coincide with the opening of the new Samuel Johnson Community Hospital.

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WW1 Commemoration at Lichfield Cathedral

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ichfield Cathedral is set to host a series of commemorative events to honour those who lost their lives in WW1.The programme of events will begin on Sunday 3rd August with a service entitled ‘Peace among nations: a vigil of reflection to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of World War One.’ The service will include a short requiem written by Walford Davies in 1915, ‘In Sacred Memory of all those who have fallen in the war’, Fauré’s ‘Pie Jesu’ and Handel’s ‘I know that my Redeemer liveth.’

A Flame of Remembrance and Peace will burn in St Michael’s Chapel for four years, to commemorate those killed in WW1 and in subsequent conflicts.

Lichfield Cathedral will be the first UK venue for a touring exhibition, ‘Assembly- Memorial Chairs: A five year touring installation throughout the British Isles.’ Five chairs from Passchendale’s St. Audomarus Church will be brought to Lichfield and will be on display from 8th August through to November. Each chair will represent the casualties of each year of the war, 1914-1918. After 4 years and 16 venues throughout the UK, the exhibition will return to Ypres in July 2018.

Alongside the service and the memorial chairs, people will have the opportunity to view artwork by Denis May which was inspired by war poet Wilfred Owen. There will also be a 3D Forum Remembrance event for schools including Lt Col Richard Spiby from the 3 Mercian Regiment and BBC’s Rev’d Richard Coles.

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A Year in the Life of a Playground Mother

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ocal author Christie Barlow has published a book dealing with the trials and tribulations of picking your kids up from the playgroud.

A Year in the Life of a Playground Mother is a month by month comical tale of a young mother fighting for her place in the world against the backdrop of the Playground Mafia. As her life unfolds and she takes us through from one amusing anecdote to another the characters come to life Penelope has a lot more going on in her life than she bargained for and Mrs Noland has a lot less than she claims, not to mention Rupert who is a very busy man, Mrs High School Musical, The International Sex God and Botox Bernie.

The books highest place in Amazon’s best seller list was 276 and reached number 11 in their newcomer chart.

Christie told the Gazette: “The response to the publication has been fantastic with tweets from Jane Green, Carol Vorderman, Beverley Callard wishing me luck and Marian Keyes retweeting the book on Twitter.”

Local bands rock out at Fake Festival

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usic fans are in for a treat this year at Lichfield Fake Festival on Saturday, 16th August, with an incredible line up of local talent showcasing their musical prowess.

Nuclear Minogue, Stubblemelt, Muse Inc, Tom Woodman and Marquis Drive will be sharing the stage with some of the UK’s best tribute bands inside the huge marquee at Beacon Park.

Lee Storey, licence holder for Lichfield Fake Festival commented: “It’s really encouraging that Lichfield has some great artists to support our festival, but this makes choosing them difficult.We have a rosta of bands that we know are extremely good and very professional, but we always like to look out for new talent too. We don’t just randomly pick a band, but we actually go to gigs to get an idea of how they would perform on our big stage, and also to assess their talent.”

If you buy a ticket to Lichfield Fake Festival, you also receive a free ticket with free camping to The Big Fake Festival, the three-day event at Thoresby Park from 5th to 7th September, with eighteen of the UK’s best tribute bands.

Early bird tickets are on sale and are £15.00 for an adult, £8.00 for a Young Person (10-17 years), and £38.00 for a Family ticket. Under 9s are free. Tickets can be bought online or from the following outlets: Lichfield Tourist Information, St Mary’s, Market Square, The Feathers Inn, 118 Beacon Street, Lichfield District Arts, 32a Bore Street, Lakeside Bistro, Beacon Park, Swan Road, Chandlers Restaurant, Conduit Street, Keith Hall Hairdressing, 29a Market Street.

For more information visit www.fakefestivals.co.uk or telephone 0800 652 2852 Lichfield Fake Festival line up is: Supreme Queen, Oasish and Coldplace.

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Solstice Walk H Success Changing Places Loo at the Friary

undreds of women stepped out in style in June for the St Giles Hospice Solstice Walk, raising thousands of pounds for the local charity.

More than 800 ladies, many wearing their finest fairy-themed fancy-dress hit the streets of Lichfield City Centre on Saturday 21st June for the night-time stroll, which is set to raise an estimated £90,000 for St Giles Hospice.

The Solstice Walk is the biggest single event in the hospice’s fundraising calendar and was sponsored by Lichfieldbased Florette for the fifth year in succession. The money raised from this year’s Solstice Walk means the everpopular event has now generated more

than £700,000 for hospice care since it was established in 2007.

St Giles Hospice would like to thank Florette, who also provided water for the walkers, Securitas for providing marshals, Sainsbury’s Hams Hall, Le Reve and F M & J D Wait Funeral Directors for providing refreshments, Lichfield and Staffordshire Police and Special Constables, Lichfield District and City councils, staff at the Friary Grange Leisure Centre and The Friary School, Staffordshire Highways, Tame Responders, The Flash Centre, Birmingham, the local pubs which provided the toilet stops and the general public who supported the ladies on their way.

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ichfield District Council is keen to promote its Changing Places toilet at The Friary Car Park, to make sure people with disabilities and their carers are aware that it has opened. As a registered Changing Places facility, it offers a height adjustable changing bench, a hoist system to lift people between wheelchairs and the bench or toilet, and plenty of space so the bench and toilet can be approached by carers from either side.

Margaret Clough from Lichfield contacted the council to say how impressed she was with the facility.

She commented: “My daughter has Cerebral Palsy and uses a wheelchair, so the Changing Places toilet is really useful when we’re in the city centre. Before it was opened the nearest one was in Walsall, over eight miles away.

I am delighted to say that the Friary Changing Place is one of the most attractive ones that we have used.”

The Friary Car Park Changing Places toilet in Lichfield can be used by anyone with a radar key.

It is open daily from 8am to 5pm.

Find out more at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/changing places Page 19

Volunteers needed for Pipe Hill conservation event

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ichfield District Council is inviting adults to lend a hand at an upcoming Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (CPCG) event on Wednesday 23 July at Pipe Hill in Lichfield. It involves cutting, collecting and removing scrub, so the rare heathland habitat is not choked by invasive species.

Councillor Ian Pritchard, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Development, said: “We are grateful to our CPCG volunteers who continue to help us to manage important parks and green spaces across the district. We’re always keen for more people to join the group, so if you are interested in nature conservation, please contact us to find out how to get involved.”

The day runs from 10.30am to 3pm and is for over 18s. All tools will be provided as well as light snacks. Wearing outdoor waterproof clothes and sturdy footwear is recommended. To find out more please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cpcg To book your free place, please call Denice Deverall at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308183 or email countryside@lichfielddc.gov.uk

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Chairman’s debate

ixty Little Aston Primary School pupils got a taste of local democracy in action when they visited Lichfield District Council on Tuesday 24 June.

Councillor David S Smith, Chairman of Lichfield District Council welcomed the Year 1 and 2 pupils from Little Aston Primary School to the Council Chamber. After explaining how councillors discuss local issues and then vote on them, Councillor Smith led a debate with the school children.

Councillor Smith commented: “It was lovely to meet the children and I was very impressed with their debating skills. I hope they enjoyed their visit to the council chamber and the debate.”

The council visit was arranged by Councillor Joseph Powell, ward member for Little Aston.

Cllr Smith with Jasveers, Isabelle, Franchesca, and Sophia Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The London Homebuilding & Renovating and Home Improvement Show

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s the property market regains its confidence, the UK’s fastest growing home show is coming to London for the first time as a combined event designed for both self-builders and remodelers.

The new London Homebuilding & Renovating and Home Improvement Show will take place from the 26-28 September at Olympia, London. The exhibition will offer visitors the chance to benefit from an extensive range of products and recommendations from more exhibitors than ever before and tips and bespoke advice from an extended expert panel on how to successfully complete a project from start to finish.

Piers Taylor, award-winning RIBA architect and co-presenter of BBC2 series ‘The House that £100k Built’ will be making his first appearance on the London expert panel to inspire visitors with quality interior design and architecture recommendations to help homeowners make the most of their projects. Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural designer and presenter of More4’s ‘Building the Dream’, will be making his awaited comeback to the London event and will also appear alongside other homebuilding and home improvement professionals including Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of the Homebuilding and Renovating Magazine.

Another new feature for this year’s event is the updated Interior Design and Decorating Clinic, brought to you by Dulux Design Service.

Visitors will be provided with insightful ideas on how to decorate their homes through the use of appealing colour schemes, wall coverings and furnishings. Dulux consultants will be offering free one-on-one appointments to bring attendees one step closer to their aspirational house.

Come prepared with your plans and ideas and benefit from the wide range of experts that can offer individual sessions at the Ask the Experts zone. This year, the panel of property specialists includes: Michael Holmes (editor-in-chief of Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine); Jason Orme (editor of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Piers Taylor (awardwinning RIBA architect and co-presenter of hit BBC2 series ‘The House that £100k Built’); Charlie Luxton (sustainable architectural designer and presenter of More4’s ‘Building the Dream’); Julia Kendell (Interiors and Decorating expert from DIY SOS and ITV1’s Daybreak); Matt James (designer and expert on ITV’s ‘Love Your Garden’); David Snell (Homebuilding & Renovating magazine’s self-build and plot finding expert); Tim Pullen (eco expert at Homebuilding & Renovating magazine), Bob Branscome (chartered surveyor and builder); Chris Reeves (Homebuilding & Renovating magazine’s Legal Expert and chartered builder and lawyer) and Roger Hunt (award-winning writer and eco expert).

Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £17 on the door (children under 16 go free).

For further information visit http://london.homebuildingshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0871 2301086.

WIN WIN WIN

We have six pairs of tickets to give away in our Homebuilding Show Competition, to be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question.

Q: Where is the London Homebuilding and Renovating Show taking place?

A: Olympia B: NEC C: O2 Arena Just send your answer and contact details (including telephone number) to Gazette Homebuilding Competition PO Box 5414 Lichfield WS14 4EZ, or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by closing date 18th August.

Page 21

Beat the crowds and get your lasting power of attorney now W

hen David Cameron recently urged the pharmaceutical industry to step up its efforts to find an effective treatment or cure for dementia, he repeated the government’s concerns over the growing number of people suffering from debilitating mental illnesses.

Research from the Alzheimer’s Society forecasts that there will be over a million people with dementia by 2021, highlighting that getting your affairs in order has never been more important.

The government is so concerned about the number of people who have not yet planned for their later years, including what would happen to them if they were affected by dementia or any other debilitative condition, that it has announced that it will be holding a ‘life planning day’ in 2015.

The life planning day is intended to promote awareness about making a will and creating a lasting power of attorney to manage your property and financial affairs and health and welfare if you are unable to. Choosing your attorney while you are of sound mind ensures that you are in control of who is to act on your behalf. Your chosen attorney must be someone who you can trust to act in your best interests.

Whilst making a will is relatively straightforward and can be done quite quickly, the process of appointing an attorney is more complicated and can take a long time. A lasting power of attorney cannot be used until it has been registered and there are no shortcuts or urgent applications that can be made to speed

Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

up the registration process.

With this in mind it would be a good idea to look at preparing your lasting power of attorney now, before the government’s campaign begins. The Office of the Public Guardian, the organisation who registers and oversees lasting powers of attorney, is already very busy. It currently receives 2,000 registration applications per day, with the average registration application taking 14 weeks to complete. The number of people preparing and registering lasting powers of attorney is set to increase in the next few years, as will the likely time delays.

As an experienced wills and probate lawyer, I see many people in the distressing situation where they are unable to make important decisions on behalf of their loved ones and have no alternative but to make an emergency application to the Court of Protection. This can be costly and take a long time to be processed, leaving their loved ones vulnerable in the meanwhile.

I can therefore only encourage you to put your affairs in order now, ahead of the government campaign getting under way. Make time today to get your lasting power of attorney.

Shelly Wainwright Wills and Probate Solicitor Ansons Solicitors

Rugby Taster Sessions at Beacon Park

Lichfield District Council and Lichfield Rugby Club are joining forces to offer a series of touch rugby taster sessions in Beacon Park this summer.

The O2 Touch sessions will take place on the park’s football pitches on 26 July and on 2 and 9 August from 9am to 10am.

They are mixed and open to everyone over the age of eight. There is no need to book in advance, people wanting to get involved should simply come to Beacon Park in their sports gear and join in.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “Touch rugby is a great way to get active. The game has all the pride and competitive spirit of rugby, but is more social and light hearted. It’s noncontact, easy to learn and open to everyone over the age of 8, so it’s a great way to be introduced to the game.”

The sessions will be led by a Lichfield Rugby Club instructor and cost £2 each. Beginners and families are welcome. Find out more at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/touchrugby or call sports development on 01543 308835. O2 Touch is a nationwide touch rugby programme run by England Rugby in partnership with O2 to encourage people to get fit and have fun through playing rugby.

Harvey Andrews back in Lichfield for Mysteries gig

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arvey Andrews retired from fulltime concert performances in October 2012 with a series of concerts at The Guildhall, Lichfield – but now he’s back in the city to help raise funds for Lichfield Mysteries. His one-man show ‘Glad to be Grey’ is described as a ‘celebration of maturity, with songs, stories, humour and the occasional rant’. Harvey’s first gig was in 1964 and he has performed over 3500 times over a period of 50 years. He has appeared in many festivals all over the world and written and sung theme songs for TV and films.

He collaborated on a successful musical depicting life growing up in Birmingham in the 40s and 50s. Written by Malcolm Stent, Go Play Up Your Own End has been well received across the Midlands, especially in its production in 2006 featuring Jasper Carrott in a major role.

‘Glad to be Grey’ takes place on Friday September 12, 8pm, at Lichfield City Football Club, Brownsfield Lane.

Tickets are £10 from 01543 506826 or email: jilltaylor@lichfieldmysteries.co.uk.

PCC Returns to Speakers’ Corner

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taffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner received a warm welcome when he returned to Speakers’ Corner.

Matthew Ellis returned to the Dam Street-based podium on Saturday 28 June, where he spoke for 30 minutes, attracting a crowd of over 40 local people.

Describing a number of achievements made in his office within the last six months, Mr Ellis spoke about progress made in victims’ services, the stabilisation of police finances and improvements to local policing. He then took questions for approximately thirty minutes.

Mr Ellis commented: “The weather was mixed on Saturday, but there was a decent turnout and some good questions. I updated listeners about our work in spending public money better and achieving more whilst also making sure the criminal justice system fits people’s needs rather than them having to fit the system. I also described that we’ve been able to nearly double this year’s recruitment of new officers from 42 to 80, which went down very well. This is the third time I’ve spoken here now and I’ll certainly look forward to my next visit.”

Speakers’ Corner was launched in the city centre in 2009 and holds regular events giving guests and members of the public the chance to speak about topics close to their hearts.

Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Music for Reflection at Lichfield Cathedral

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ichfield Cathedral is to play host to a series of midweek lunchtime concerts this summer. The concerts will be on each Wednesday and Friday between 16 July and 29 August 2014 from 13.15-13.45.There is no admission fee however donations will be warmly received.

The twice weekly concerts will feature the likes of John Keys, Director of Music, St Mary’s, Nottingham; Imogen Garner, mezzo-soprano; and Jonathan Hope, Assistant Director of Music, Gloucester Cathedral.

The Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield, said “The Music for Reflection series is a key event in our summer calendar. The concerts will be on over lunchtime, and we’d like to encourage people to step away from their work and come to the Cathedral for something inspiring and refreshing.”

Cathedral Organist, Martyn Rawles added, “We’re hoping that this year’s event will be even bigger and better than last year’s. We’ve got a diverse mix of musicians lined up including a performance by Lichfield Cathedral School Music Department which we’re very much looking forward to.”

For a full list of concerts or to find out more about Lichfield Cathedral visit lichfield-cathedral.org.

A message from the Lichfield Embroiderers Guild...

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e are a group of women (but men are welcome) who have an interest in textile art and embroidery. We are of mixed abilities and there is no need to be able to sew to come and join us – there are no tests. Our meetings vary, we have talks and workshops, show and tell and much more covering a wide range of embroidery and textile techniques.

The Lichfield Branch of the Embroiderers Guild meet at the Lichfield Methodist Centre, Backcester Lane, Lichfield on the third Monday of the month at 7.30 p.m. New members are always welcome, or can come as visitors for a few months for only £4. We also have a thriving Young Embroiderers group, for 7 – 17 year olds, which meets once a month at St Michael’s Church Hall for two and a half hours. They cover a variety of textile techniques.

On Saturday 2nd August, the Lichfield Branch of the Embroiderers Guild are celebrating the National Day of Stitch.We shall be in a star tent in the Museum Gardens, Beacon Park from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. We are inviting people to drop in for a short time and stitch a SARI SILK card, at no cost.

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Wednesday’s get Wacky at Erasmus Darwin House

very Wednesday throughout August, the innovative team at Erasmus Darwin House are once again running ‘Wacky Wednesdays’ activity sessions for parents and children. Each ‘Wacky Wednesday’ has a different theme for all to enjoy, from the Meet Erasmouse and Grow Your Own to discovering Space & Beyond and exploring Butterflies & Moths.

Staff at Erasmus Darwin House will be helping children and parents to take part in the various activities, such as creating an origami-paper butterfly or decorating a plant pot to plant some seeds. The activities at each ‘Wacky Wednesday’ will allow parents and children to share the enjoyment that comes from getting crafty while learning new things. This year we will have cases of butterflies to look at, to identify and learn about their life-cycle.

To book a place on one or more of the sessions please call us on 01543 306260 or for more information see our website www.erasmusdarwin.org. Sessions cost £2 per child with the accompanying adult going along for free!

Morning sessions run from 11.30am-1pm, and afternoon sessions run from 2pm-3.30pm.

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Oxjam returns to Lichfield

The Lichfield Oxjam Music Festival will return to Lichfield on October. Oxjam was founded in 2006 and is a highly successful series of events run by volunteers who have a passion for music in their local area, all in aid of Oxfam. All of the money raised goes towards helping Oxfam with its primary goal of fighting poverty and suffering all around the world.

During the month of October, over 60 different areas of the UK will host their own Oxjam event. Since it first started, there have been 4,800 Oxjam events with over 55,000 musicians and a whopping £2.3 million raised.

Musicians, venues, businesses, volunteers or fundraisers who would like to get involved should email the organisers at: oxjamlichfield2014@gmail.com.

For updates go to facebook oxjamlichfield2014 twitter lichfieldoxjam or www.oxfam.org.uk/oxjam.

Morrisons Lichfield takes out trolley locks

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Lichfield Schools Wheelbarrow Competition

s part of Blooming Lichfield, for the second year the Schools Wheelbarrow Competition has taken place. Schools across the Lichfield area were invited to enter and plant up a wheelbarrow to evoke a specific theme. The theme for 2014 was ‘Going for Gold’, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Britain in Bloom. Prizes took the form of Garden Centre vouchers which can be used to improve each school’s gardens.

The planted barrows were brought together at Curborough Countryside Centre in June, to allow members of the public to choose their favourite barrow. Hundreds of people saw the barrows and they drew a lot of interest.

This year 19 schools took part with over 350 votes being cast. The winning school was Queen’s Croft, whose barrow featured ‘Queen Bee’, a bee hive and lots of bright golden flowers plus facts about gold, silver and bronze. Members of the public loved the idea and it was the barrow with the most votes by far.

1st place, Queens Croft School

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n 3rd July Morrisons removed all trolley locks at its Beacon Street store in response to Lichfield’s customer feedback, which has called for quicker and easier shopping trips. This will remove the need to insert a £1 coin or token to release a trolley from its bay.

Mark Relton, Store General Manager for Morrisons Lichfield commented: “Our nation is getting busier and we have less free time than p r e v i o u s generations.

Customers in Lichfield have told us that they want a quicker shop. The removal of trolley locks is just one of the many improvements we are making to our store – to make for a faster and easier shopping trip.”

Morrisons is leading the way in the removal of trolley locks across its stores nation-wide. 150,000 locks will be removed from stores this July.

Page 26 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Ken Knowles with judge's transport provided by Tempest Ford.

Judges with Richard Lewis.

2nd place, St Chads Primary School

3rd place, Cathedral School

HRH Princess Alexandra revisits Police Mutual after 40 years olice Mutual staff and

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from Officers Staffordshire Police met HRH Princess Alexandra when she visited their Lichfield offices on 11 July.

The visit celebrated the close links between HRH Princess Alexandra, Tilly Police Mutual and the Ward and Stephen Mann Police family and gave Princess Alexandra an opportunity to see how much the building she formally opened in 1970 had changed.

During her visit, Princess Alexandra was welcomed to Police Mutual’s headquarters, named Alexandra House in her honour, by Chief Executive Stephen Mann, Commercial Director James Henderson, former Chief Executive Peter Sharpe and Head of Welfare Services Claire Long. The Staffordshire Police Cadets also lined up to welcome her.

She also met Staffordshire Police’s Chief Constable Mike Cunningham, former Chief Constable and Police Mutual Chairman, John Giffard, retired South Yorkshire Police officer Mark Silcock, Sergeant Neil Goosey from Northamptonshire Police and a number of officers from Staffordshire Police, together with Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Arnold.

A new portrait of Princess Alexandra was unveiled before she was presented with a bouquet of flowers by nine-year-old Tilly Ward.

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Considering artificial grass but not sure of the facts?

onsiderable improvements to artificial grass are making it harder to spot a natural lawn from an artificial one.

Available in differing pile heights and tones it’s important to choose a turf that works best for you.

We would recommend dog owners use shorter pile turf as ‘cleaning up’ is easier; families consider a medium pile turf and the longer pile turf for ornamental lawns.

The base construction is extremely important if you want your lawn to remain looking good for many years. From the ground up, it should have a separation barrier, compacted stone and then compacted/levelled sand. A wooden frame retains the base and enables the lawn to be pinned in place securely. More sand is then brushed into the lawn to keep the pile upright and add extra durability.

Artificial grass, supplied on 2m/ 4m wide rolls, needs to be laid in the same direction so wastage when ‘cutting in’ is possible. Quality turf manufacturers offer an 8 year UV Guarantee and a professionally installed lawn should last 15-20 years.

Full installation prices vary so budget for around £50-£60 per square metre. If you’re interested in a no obligation quotation, please give Luke at Pro-mats a call on 0121 308 6662 or email: luke@pro-mats.co.uk. For examples of Pro-mats work, please visit www.pro-mats.co.uk Page 27

Swinfen Broun Challenge Trophy Bowls Match

The Mayor of Lichfield, Cllr Mrs Norma Bacon led the Lichfield City Council team in the annual Swinfen Broun Challenge Trophy bowls match against the Museum Bowling Club on Monday, 2 July, with the Bowling Club taking the trophy 160 to 60. Cllr Bacon handed the trophy to President of the Club, Mr Peter Holland, who gave a short talk about the history of the challenge match which has been played since 1924, although it was not until 1926 that the trophy was donated by local benefactor, Colonel Swinfen Broun and it has been fought over ever since. Players retired to the Hub for supper prepared by the ladies of the Bowling Club.

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New President for Lichfield Rotary Club

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n the 1st July each year the new President of Lichfield Rotary Club is appointed. For the coming 12 months the new President is David Kershaw who is a former Banking official. Each year new officers are elected to ensure a fresh selection of candidates with new ideas for raising funds for local and international charities.

In the past year, the Club which has just 30 members has raised and donated ÂŁ11,000 to local organisations and provided special disaster aids such as six person survival units which are sent to areas in crisis throughout the world.

The Club, who meet each Thursday lunchtime at the Darnford Moors Golf Club, is seeking new members. The only entry criteria is that prospective members have business or former management experience.

Advertising in the azette

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t doesn't matter if you're a long established business or a new start up, an advertisement in the Lichfield Gazette puts your company, product or services in-front of exactly the right people at exactly the right time.

We print 18,000 copies of each issue of the Lichfield Gazette, and 13,500 copies of the Chase Gazette (that’s over 80,000 readers!). Each issue is hand delivered through the letterboxes of selected homes in the Lichfield and Cannock Chase areas.

Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Our advertisers consistently report a great response from any inclusion in our pages, and we pull out all of the stops to create beautifully designed ads for our customers, for free, and to craft excellent, informative and aspirational editorial that really gets across exactly what you want to say.

An advert in the Lichfield Gazette is both affordable and effective. You can get in touch with our advertising team on 01543 302748.

Can you really afford not to?

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Your Local Pubs News

Meet the Brewer

Pub of the Year for The Feathers Inn

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Mike and Tracy Kingston receiving their award

he Feathers Inn, Beacon Street, has won the coveted Marston’s Pub of the Year award for 2014.

The Marston’s Pub of the Year award was presented to licensees Mike and Tracy Kingston at a gala evening held on June 5th at Hotel du Vin, Birmingham. The Feathers Inn was also awarded the additional title of Marston’s Community Pub of the Year.

Mike commented: “We’re absolutely over the moon. We’re delighted, it’s fantastic and I’d like to give a huge thank you to everyone who’s worked with us over the past five years, the staff have been brilliant. And to everyone who’s been involved in supporting us and understanding what we’ve been doing here. Onwards and upwards!”

The Feathers Inn was chosen despite stiff competition from hundreds of Marston’s pubs up and down the country.

Peter Dalzell, managing director of Marston’s Inns & Taverns said: “The Feathers Inn is a perfect example of a community pub – everybody is sure of a warm welcome.

They’re at the heart of their community, they do a lot of work for charity, and there is always something going on thanks to Mike and Tracy’s endless energy and enthusiasm for their business.

“This is the eighth year that Marston’s have run their Pub of the Year awards, and this year the field of entries was stronger than ever. It’s a testament to all the hard work and imagination our licensees put into their work that so many pubs offer such a high standard to so many customers.”

Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Duncan, Jamie, Tracie and Sharon of the Acorn join Ray Owen of CAMRA to open the new beer garden.

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Sharon Owen and Tracy Talbot with Keiran Chouhan and Ray Owen

n June JD Wetherspoon's Acorn Inn in Tamworth Street hosted an evening with Nottingham brewers Springhead. The Sutton-on-Trent (Nottinghamshire) brewery, once in the Guinness Book of Records as the country's smallest brewery, showcased many of their top selling trial ales. On the same evening the new beer garden at the rear of the Acorn Inn opened.

The space has been created with covered area, creative lighting and planting.

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A Thank you from Lichfield Film at George IV

ichfield Film has recently celebrated its first birthday and would like to thank everyone who has attended a screening and supported them over this time. They are now happily supported by their home venue the George IV on Bore Street with regular Wednesday evening screenings.

Anyone wanting to be kept up to date with the screening programme can find them on facebook and twitter or can contact lichfieldfilm@gmail.com to be added to the mailing list.

email: lichfieldfactoryspecs@hotmail.co.uk

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PETS CORNER

What would happen if you lost your pet?

Get your pet microchipped!

by Pool House Veterinary Hospital

At Pool House Veterinary Hospital we strongly agree and encourage getting pets microchipped.

We deal with dozens of stray dogs and cats, hoping that each one is lucky enough to have been implanted with a microchip. This usually means that we can then safely reunite a stray pet with its owners within a couple of hours, often sooner. It’s heartbreaking all round when we have stray pets bought to us that don’t have a microchip, especially if they are obviously well cared for and loved. Somebody must be missing them somewhere! Stray pets that we are sadly unable to reunite with owners are put up for re-homing. Dogs are often collected by the local dog warden and taken to a rescue kennels where space might be available.

On very unfortunate occasions it is particularly helpful for us to be able to contact owners quickly, if their pet has been involved in an accident and requires urgent Veterinary care. Or for example, if a stray pet is unwell and we need to know their medical history to help treat them.

Having your dog microchipped is going to become a LEGAL REQUIREMENT. The Government want to promote responsible dog ownership; plans are being put in place for a law to be enforced on microchipping in England by April 2016.

This means it will become a legal requirement for ALL dogs to have a microchip.

Owners of dogs found not to be microchipped after this date may face a fine of up to £500.

What is microchipping? It is the procedure of having a microchip implanted into your pet. The microchip itself is approximately the size of a grain of rice. It is usually implanted into the pets scruff, in-between the shoulder blades. It is a simple and quick procedure that should be carried out by a Vet, Veterinary Nurse or trained implanter.

A microchip enables your pet to be identified quickly at Veterinary practices, by the dog warden, at rescue centres and by local authorities. All stray pets are routinely scanned, with a hand held microchip scanner.

This picks up an identification number unique to your pets microchip. This number is stored on a national database, under which will be your pet’s details and your contact details.

At Pool House Veterinary Hospital, Fosseway Lane, Lichfield, we are offering microchipping at a cost of £5.00 for cats and dogs on SATURDAY 26th JULY ’14.

You do not have to be registered at the practice and can just turn up on the day between 9.30am and 4.30pm. Microchipping is otherwise available during opening hours at normal cost, an appointment may be necessary. Please phone 01543 262464 or 262433 www.poolhousevets.co.uk Below are just a few of the stray cats received at Pool House Veterinary Hospital recently, none of which were microchipped.

Page 34 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Florette Festival Market 2014

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ichfield basked in the sunshine on Saturday 5th July for the Florette Festival Market. Great entertainment, a wide selection of stalls and a beautiful setting made this a very successful day.

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Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

St Giles Hospice welcomes HRH Princess Alexandra

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er Royal Highness Princess Alexandra has officially opened the refurbished Day Hospice at St Giles Hospice in Whittington, as part of a visit to learn how the services provided by the leading local charity are evolving. The Royal guest, who officially opened the hospice in 1983 and opened St Giles’ facility in Sutton Coldfield in 2008, was given an update on the hospice’s facilities by Group Chief Executive Peter Holliday and met St Giles staff, patients and volunteers during the visit on Friday 11th July.

Her Royal Highness unveiled a plaque during the visit to mark the recent refurbishment of the Day Hospice, which has been completely refurbished thanks to a grant from the Department of Health, and support from various charitable trusts and foundations. The service helps those with cancer and other serious illnesses who continue to live at home.

Patients usually attend for one day each week and receive St Giles’ specialist care and support, as well as taking part in a range of creative therapies and other activities.

Princess Alexandra was greeted when she

arrived at St Giles by a class of schoolchildren from Whittington Primary School and local dignitaries, before enjoying a tour of the facilities, including the Day Hospice, the oxygen clinic, the library and the Compassus Centre, which provides the hospice’s specialist in-

patient care. She also talked with St Giles Head of Education Theresa Barker, who explained the hospice’s work in training and education, and long-serving volunteers Betty Garth and Julia Hicks, two of the many helpers who give their time for free to support the hospice.

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Lichfield Food Festival Demonstrations

Lichfield Food Festival 2014

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he Kitchen Shop have thrown themselves into action for this year’s Lichfield Food Festival with a multitude of free Foodie Demonstrations both in-store and at The George Hotel on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st August.

Demonstrations will run from 10am – 4pm.

In-store, on both days, Malcolm Harradine, QVC & Ideal World TV Presenter, will be cooking up a storm with the latest kitchen equipment and tickling customer’s taste buds! There will be a fun Gadget Hour, Le Creuset recipes, and lots more.

At The George Hotel, some of the best kitchen equipment names such as Sodastream, KitchenAid and Joseph Joseph will be showing off their skills. Expect to try Real Ale that you can brew in a bag, organic chocolate, Great British sauces and Le Reve Cocktail Bar will also be giving out samples of their amazing cocktails and showing off their mixology skills.

I.O.Shen Knives will be doing a knife skills demo but will also be running a Charity Knife Sharpening Service. It is £2 per blade and the proceeds go to St Giles Hospice. There will be a selection of fantastic festival deals over the weekend, so pop in and grab yourselves a bargain.

Food and drink trails for a delectable festival

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arwin’s at The George Hotel is the first venue to sign up to this year’s World Menu and Ale & Wine trails on this year’s Lichfield Food Festival, taking place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August 2014.

By offering customers a meal for £10 as part of the World Menu Trail, or a drink for £3 on the Ale and Wine Trail, local cafés, bars and restaurants can really show off all that Lichfield has to offer discerning diners from across the region.

The organisers of Lichfield Food Festival are now encouraging cafés, bars and restaurants across Lichfield City to join Darwin’s in signing up to this year’s food and drink trails.

Darwin’s at The George Hotel recently opened its doors on Bird Street. The new restaurant serves modern British dishes created from the best of local, seasonal produce.

Gary Jones, Head Chef at Darwin’s, said: “Lichfield Food festival is a great event for the city and the food and drink trails are excellent ways for local restaurants to get involved. We’re looking forward to welcoming festival goers to our brand new restaurant and are expecting a busy weekend.”

Other venues on the Ale & Wine Trail so far include The Best of Local Brewers that will be in the Guildroom of the Guildhall over the festival weekend, and The Whippet Inn, a micro pub on Tamworth Street that recently opened in the city.

If you are an eating or drinking establishment based in Lichfield City and would like to be involved in either of the trails, you can access more information, register to be on either of the trails, and download window posters and more for free at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk/food-and-drinktrails For more information, please contact Esther Epstein at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308778 or email esther.epstein@lichfielddc.gov.uk To see the Lichfield Food Festival programme visit www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Food Festival 2014

Food Festival Programme 2014

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

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

If you would like a FREE food or drinks stall to exhibit your specialities at Tippers, Lichfield during the Food Festival at 11.30am and 1.30pm on Saturday 30th August, please contact us at ajtipper@tippersbm.co.uk Equipment & cookery demonstrations. -The Kitchen Shop & The George Hotel-10am to 4pm-Free entry. In The Kitchen Shop on Market Street, QVC and Ideal World TV presenter, Mal Harradine, will be instore on both days with a series of fun cookery

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

Lichfield Food Festival Market Lichfield’s Market Square and Three Spires Shopping Centre - 9am to 3pm. Free entry.

Organised by Lichfield City Council, Lichfield Food Festival Market is set to bring passionately produced food from across the region and a wide range of goods to Lichfield over the festival weekend.

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

Cupcake Hunt - Starts from St Mary’s in the Market Square - 10.30am to 3.30pm. Pick up your free Cupcake Hunt map from the tourist information desk and follow the clues to find

eight cupcake pictures dotted across the city.

Bring your completed sheet back to St Mary’s to claim your tasty treat. Sponsored by NFU Mutual, Burntwood branch.

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

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

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

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

Baking Competition - Three Spires Shopping Centre-Sign in from 12 noon to 1pm, winners announced at 4pm. We’re inviting amateur bakers to enter a wedding cake top tier or six wedding cupcakes to be in with a chance to win vouchers to spend in The Kitchen Shop.

Younger bakers can also enter four Cinderella themed cupcakes to be in with a chance to win a family ticket to see Cinderella at the Lichfield Garrick. Find out more and enter online at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

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National Town Criers Competition

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own Criers from across the country descended on Lichfield for the second Lichfield City National Town Criers competition held on Festival Market Day, Saturday, 5 July.

Twelve Town Criers rang their bells and paraded in colourful costumes around the city centre to the delight of all. The competition took place at Speakers’ Corner where the criers were challenged to give two performances, the first being a cry about their home-town and the second on the theme of The Great War. At 84 Cyril Richardson, Bell Man for Great Barr was the oldest entrant and Martin Wood from Shrewsbury at 7’ 2” the tallest town crier in the world!

After much deliberation the judges awarded the 2014 trophy to Peter Taunton from Stafford, with second prize to Martin Wood and third to Adrian Holmes of Sandwell.

Lichfield City Council would like to thank Reverend Ian Hayter, John Brough, Gina Martin, Brian Todd and Milly and Harry Goss for judging the competition and The Tudor of Lichfield, Michael’s Menswear, Arthur Price, The George Hotel, Keelys, Tesco, Florette, Lichfield Cathedral, Erasmus Darwin House, Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and the Staffordshire Regiment Museum for their sponsorship.

Peter Taunton Winner

Kidsgrove Town Crier & Consort

Criers at Speakers' Corner Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Hagrid and Hobbits

Lines of Beauty Exhibition at the Johnson Birthplace

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display of extraordinary artistic talent is taking place at the Johnson Birthplace Museum. ‘Lines of Beauty’ is an exhibition of Calligraphy by local artists, displayed around the inspiring settings of the historic house. The Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Norma Bacon, formally opened the exhibition on July 3rd, and it will run until September.

The display marks a very welcome return to the Birthplace Museum for the Lichfield Calligraphers, whose previous exhibitions ‘The Art of Words’ and ‘the Nature of Shakespeare’ were very popular.

Calligrapher and leader of the group, Peter Halliday, said: “Calligraphy is alive and flourishing in Lichfield. The group has been working on a number of diverse projects, many including the use of gold leaf and other decorative and beautiful ways of illuminating the words.”

The group meets weekly in Lichfield to enjoy the various aspects of calligraphy, lettering and illumination, and the display also includes contributions from Peter's other students who meet weekly in Barton under Needwood.

The Museum is open from 10.30am – 4.30pm daily and admission is free. For more information please call 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or visit the Museum’s website at www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk.

J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS

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

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

A truly personal service from a caring family.

TELEPHONE : 01543 255766 Situated 116 Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6TS

PARKING DIRECTLY OUTSIDE

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March marks a closing chapter

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n Saturday 28th June over 250 soldiers from The Mercian Regiment and veterans from the Staffordshire Regimental Association, marched through the centre of Lichfield. The parade was final leg of a homecoming tour that celebrated the Regiment’s return from a nine month long tour in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Despite wet weather, the march was supported by thousands of people who applauded and cheered the troops through the streets, and as they gave the salute taken by Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Ian Dudson outside Lichfield Guildhall. The Colonel of the Regiment, Brigadier Andrew Williams, Major General IL Freer, Brigadier JK Tanner, and the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Norma Bacon were also in attendance.

The parade was led by the Commanding Officer of 3 Mercian, Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Davies. A military band and Lance Corporal Watchman V, Mascot of the Staffordshire Regiment Association with his handler WO2 Greg Hedges, accompanied the soldiers to the delight of the crowd.

This was a day of mingled pride and sadness for Lichfield, as this Homecoming Parade marked the closing chapter of the Mercian Regiment 3rd Battalion (The Staffords), and the ending of the 309 year tradition of a named Staffordshire Regiment.

“Eyes right!” taking the sault outside the Guildhall

Generations meet

WO2 Greg Hedges with Watchman V

Fundraiser Christian Nock

John Rackham Landloard of the Kings Head with an engraved gun shell casing that was fired in Helmand Province.

All photos By Robert Yardley Continued on page 44 Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Medal presentation with the Major, Cllr. Norma Bacon.

Summer Gardening Tips

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with Byron Lewis from Lichfield Garden Centre

ugust is traditionally the month when many of us enjoy a week or two away (preferably in the sun – at home or away!). But while you enjoy yourself and top up the tan, don’t forget about all the plants in your borders, the lawn, and the colourful summer pots and baskets.

Let’s start with the most important first – your hanging baskets, wall planters, pots and window boxes. These normally need watering once a day when the weather is warm and sunny, but unless you have very friendly neighbours who love watering, they are going to dry out! To try and reduce this problem as much as possible, there are a number of things you can do : Include water retention gel in your compost – these special granules swell up and absorb up to 400 times their own weight in water, releasing it gradually as the baskets and pots dry out. You normally mix this into the compost when you initially plant them up, but if you forgot to do this earlier in the summer fear not – by making a few holes in the soil of your baskets and pots with a pencil, you can pour the granules in and they will have the same effect.

Remove all the flowers from your pots & baskets – this sounds a bit silly but by removing the flowers, less energy is used by the plants for seed production – using up less water. The other side benefit of this is that when you return from your well-earned break there will be a flush of new buds waiting to burst into colour.

Group pots and window boxes together – doing this means the pots will give each other shade and therefore slow down the rate at which they dry out. Another useful tip is to try and use stone or clay pots instead of plastic – the heat generated by the sun quickly dries out the root systems of plants in plastic pots, whereas clay and stone pots stay cooler for longer.

Lawns & Borders – Don’t forget to cut the lawn a day or two before you leave for the airport, This ensures the lawn won’t be too long to cut when you get back – it’s also worth giving the lawn a liquid feed and a good water before you go. With your borders, follow the same principle of removing flowers to make sure that you have bushy plants with plenty of buds by the time you return from your break.

By all means enjoy your holidays this summer, but don’t forget about your plants!!

Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre, at Curborough Countryside Centre, Lichfield.

01543 254306. www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk - also on Facebook & Twitter. #lichfieldgdnctr

Page 43

March marks a closing chapter. Continued from page 42 All photos By Robert Yardley

Medal presentation with the Major, WO2 Greg Hedges with Watchman V Cllr. Norma Bacon.

Congregating outside the Kings Head

Receiving the salute Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Sgt, John Fellows the only living Staffords Chelsea Pensioner.

The final mile of the ‘Journey Home’ event that raised over £6,000 and ended at the Kings Head.

Staffordshire Regimental Asscoiation Standards

Edwardian Fete and Fair Sunday August 3rd 2014

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n Sunday August 3rd the Staffordshire Regiment Museum is pulling out all of the stops to create an Edwardian extravaganza to commemorate the outbreak of WW1. Visitors can come along to the Edwardian Tea Tent where they will be served authentic cakes, can read one of the original newspapers and listen to the pianist who will fill the tea tent with evocative music. There will be lots of opportunity to shop with an impressive and extensive collection of stalls selling vintage items, fashions, crafts, gifts, jewellery, books, toys, cakes, homewares, bric-a-brac and much more. Fancy a pint or a Pimms? The period beer tent is the place to be, and with live music and drama, period fairground rides and stalls, lots of WWI themed entertainment and re-enactions and the museum collections and WW1 trench system, this will be a great day out for the whole family. The Museum is proud to announce the launch of Jeff Elson’s latest book will also be taking place during the day.The author will be available to sign copies of ‘The War History of The 1/6th Battalion, The Prince of Wales’s (North Staffordshire Regiment) (TF) 1914-1918.’

The event starts at 10am and concludes at 5pm. Entry £4 for adults, £2.50 for children under 16 and all concessions including senior-citizens and full-time students. Staffordshire Regiment Museum, Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield, WS14 9PY. For more information go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com or call 01543 434394.

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Local Heroes exhibition

o commemorate the outbreak of the First World War in August 1914, Lichfield Museum is displaying artefacts and stories from the locality that portray the effect of the war on local soldiers at the front and the effect on the people and life in general of those left behind.

The Local Heroes exhibition will launch on the 21 July 2014 and runs until the 31 January 2015.

Peter Griffiths, Volunteer for Lichfield Museum, said: “It is important that the sacrifices made by those who went off to fight in the war are remembered. It is hoped that those who visit the exhibition will gain some insight into the life of those who fought and also to realise how it impacted on the lives of those left behind.”

Normal entry prices to Lichfield Museum will apply, but during school holidays children accompanied by an adult are admitted free.

To find out more about Lichfield Museum at St Mary’s in the Market Square, please visit www.stmaryslichfield.co.uk Page 45

The Wartime Remembrances of a Quiet Hero

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By Joss Musgrove Knibb

n 2011, I was lucky enough to meet Mr George Parry, a veteran of the Battle of Arnhem (the subject of the film A BridgeToo Far) and of the conflicts that took place in Sicily and Italy during WW2.

On a rainy afternoon in the library of the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, quite by chance, I sat down for a cup of tea with George, and was held spellbound as this quiet man told me about his war-time experiences.To my knowledge, the following is the most complete transcript of his service ever written down.

George died in late December 2011 aged 95 years old. He was born in Cannock in 1916 and enjoyed a long and happy marriage to Joyce whom he married in August 1946. Mr Parry’s funeral service took place in Cannock, and was a very moving occasion with friends, family and veterans all sharing their stories of George.

George joined the South Staffordshire Regiment in January 1940 and at the time that we spoke was in all likelihood the only member of the South Staffordshire Airbourne Division who saw action in Sicily that was still with us.

Talking to George made a deep and abiding impression on me. In this, the 70th anniversary year of the Battle of Arnhem, we present here the story of a quiet hero, a veteran of Arnhem, a husband, father, grandfather and greatgrandfather and a man that Staffordshire can be very proud of.

GP. I was 23 when I joined the army in 1940.

We all went to Britannia Hall for training. My Regimental number was 4919190, you never forget it. I was part of the 2nd South Staffs 6th battalion, a regular battalion.Then I was transferred to the 59th Divisional HQ in Northern Ireland as a Signaller. I was unhappy with the job so I tried to get back to my battalion.Then we got an order that the 2nd battalion South Staffs was coming home from India. I joined the 1st Airborne Brigade in 1942, and I went back as a signaller. As a signaller you look after communication through the wireless, Morse code and flags.You mainly used the wireless set, that was the top means of communication.They used to break down a lot, the heat really affected them. There were different strengths of wireless, they were powered by two batteries of six volts so twelve volts in total. If the terrain was clear with no obstruction you could get a signal, if you were in a spinney or anything you had no chance, as it would stop the flow of ground waves. It was ground wave radio you see not air wave, you’ve got to have a strong wave or it won’t work. All this only applied to an 18 set radio.

I joined the Airborne near Newbury, the office was in an old stable in Kingsley, Newbury. Then we moved about a fair bit - ended up at a big barracks

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

On Tuesday 19th September 1944 this picture was taken showing (on the left) George Parry and Lt Reynolds (gesturing).

on Salisbury Plain. We were put through extensive training there at Netherfield. It was training for glider pilots in a Hotspur glider.

At that time I thought it was more or less an adventure, we were unaware of the fear attached to the gliders. The soldiers called them “flying coffins”. We were fools to be there in the first place.

The first time I went to Africa we sailed from Liverpool, when we got there it was so hot, but we thought never mind, we’ll be moving on soon. It was a place called Mascara and it was hotter still. We were sweating under canvas like bulls till we got acclimatised, there was a lot of dysentery and upset stomachs, but we prepared here for Sicily.

We left for Sicily on a Friday in the late evening 9th July 1943, 68 long years ago. I bet you think O.K he’s guessing the date now, no-one’s memory is that good after 68 years! I remember the date as it was my Mother’s birthday. We went from an airstrip in North Africa and flew over the Mediterranean, arriving a few minutes before 10pm, then we glided in to land in Sicily. Looking back now it’s really frightening, you just wanted to get the blessed thing down quick, sometimes we’d cover our faces on the way down, you’d get a sickening feeling, we’d all have white faces – the thing is with a glider you see is that you either land safely or don’t land safely – there’s no middle ground. A lot of us were dropped in the sea, they were cast off too soon or too late so that there was no space to glide in. When you start to come down you can’t do anything, you’ve got no option you’ve just got to hope you land safely. They lost a lot of men. The planes that dropped us in had mostly American pilots, maybe a few English too. It’s hard to define which planes cast off too soon or too late but there were ever so many that came down in the Med and couldn’t keep afloat. Some were saved by being picked up by some old Desert Rats that were just coming back from North Africa overnight by sea, they made for some of the gliders cast short in the water.

When the Navy got there and started heavy shelling it shook the island, then it was really frightening.

Our objective was the Ponte Grande Bridge in

Syracuse. One glider landed safely near the bridge with four or five others, the same number of men who now have military medals, they got to the bridge and an officer climbed underneath to remove the mines.

I landed safely and got captured for fifteen minutes by the Italians. There was a party of us, eight of us so we thought OK lets push on into the spinney. We were crawling from tree to tree, there was a lot of the enemy around, when I reached around a tree for my canteen to have a drink of water I heard “Oi, how long you been here corporal?” That was Eddie Cund, he was from Walsall.

We were overrun by a big platoon of Italians, they captured us, took our shoelaces, took our paybooks, and that was a hell of a job to get ‘em back. Sgt Williams was in tears! We were captured for 15 minutes to an hour. We were lying low in a ditch, keeping out of sight when Ernie Harper, from Wolverhampton - he was a married chap with two kids, got shot right in front of me. Silly fool, should have gone on lying low but he got a towel on a Sten gun and was waving it at the Italians and they just shot him there and then, lying low would have been safe, my God they fired on us like hell.

When we were captured they took my synchronised watch and different things off other men and we were marching away down a railway line when the Cornwall’s came.They’d come over by boat overnight and we were released.We found our way back to the Ponte Grande and we stayed there for a couple of weeks. I was 26 now.

We went back to Africa after that, and then after Sicily I came home to Woodall Spa in Lincolnshire to prepare for the Battle of Arnhem.

When we got back to Woodall Spa we had a lot of route marches and exercises in the field. We were kept busy all the time.

I was at the airfield loading up for Arnhem at dinnertime on Sunday 17th Sept 1944, it was a sunny, showery day, like today. We dropped in to Wolfheze in the Netherlands, about 600 of us Staffords. I’ve heard different opinions on whether the Germans knew we were coming or not, I think that the people at the top (Dutch puppet government) told the Germans and they were

waiting just the other side of the bridge...information may well have been passed on by the Dutch authorities. In any case it was insisted that we made the landing, there were people there with no chance. Still, in my opinion I can’t understand if they really knew that the 9th and 10th Panzer Division were waiting for us why it went ahead? It could have been aborted again, it wasn’t and we lost so many men. It was a catastrophe, no doubt about it, glorious victory it wasn’t.

Wolfheze was not too far, perhaps six or seven miles from the bridge. We made about two attempts on it. Lt. Col. McCardie, a battalion commander was in charge. The second and last attempt was in the afternoon. When the Germans broke through at the bridge we retreated. Retreat, it’s a nasty word. You know people say - those who fight and run away? It’s not like that. We managed to get away, a platoon of us. We were near to the bridge when the Germans broke through.The 9th and 10th Panzer came... tanks firing up the road. We went into a slit trench behind a mansion house that someone had dug out.

We were rousted out with guns ‘‘rouse rouse!’’. Lt. Reynolds and Lt. Col. McCardie were still inside the house. Reynolds was captured and as they led us away he shoved two fingers up, the German cameraman was smiling at us you see, still, I thought if Reynolds keeps doing this to the guards we are definitely going to stop a bullet here. Then Lt. Reynolds shouted “it’s no good sir, no good, it’s too late.” I don’t know what he was planning but Lt. Col. McCardie was captured there and then.

So now I was a POW of the Germans, at camp 12 at Linberg, right in the heart of Germany.There were French nationals, Arabs, Indians, people from all over. From here just before Christmas 1944 I was moved to Comato in Czechoslovakia. It was so very cold.We worked on the railway there, or pretended to work. I was working with a Czech feller, a fetch and carry man for him holding the bolts tight - jobs like that. I was there for 7 months when I first heard that Hitler had packed it in. I don’t know how the information got to us but we were released, the guards just....left. Some went off into Germany. I made my way back with an artillery battery that had come back from Russia, they were on their way to Germany, they dropped us off at Carlsberg in Czechoslovakia and I got to the American lines. They gave us food, we thought we were at a coronation feast compared to what we’d had. From there we were headed back to England but we had to be deloused first, stripped down, we were crawling.

JMK. Can you tell me about your medals?

GP. Looking at the ribbons, three stars for three battles so that’s Germany, the Med and Italy. There’s two round medals, the Defence Medal and the Victory Medal. There is also the Prisoner Of War medal, and another that is a commemorative one from the Dutch government.

JMK. How many children do you have George?

GP. I have five children, ten grandchildren, ten great, great grandchildren; I bet you think blimey, he’s been busy!

At this point a Staffordshire Regimental Association member who was with us during this interview added: “And a great many friends without a doubt. How many flights in total did you make George?”

GP. Well, one, two ......seven in total.

You don’t realise at the start what war is, it’s only with hindsight you think never again.

The whole of England was at war....soldiers, women making munitions - up all night.

Washing clothes and things for those who’d been bombed out. It’s different, there is a feeling of all for one and one for all. We’re all in it.

Published by kind permission of the Parry family. Copyright J. Musgrove Knibb.

George and Joyce Parry.

Fuse 2014 hailed a success

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ichfield Arts, the independent charity that organises the Fuse festival, has hailed this year's event a magnificent success. The free community arts festival that ran from 11th to 13th July, was run mainly by volunteers and held over three days in Beacon Park, Lichfield and music, dance, featured comedy, storytelling, art and craft with opportunities for everyone to get involved. Good weather over the weekend ensured thousands came to the event and enjoyed all that was on offer.

Fuse was the final event to be overseen by Dave Simcox, the outgoing Director of Lichfield Arts, who is leaving his role to pursue a change in career direction. Dave was given a special presentation gift on behalf of the organisation at the end of Fuse by Brian Pretty, President of Lichfield Arts and Tim Perks, Chair of Lichfield Arts.

Brian Pretty said "We are very sorry that Dave is leaving. He has organised a fantastic Fuse this year. It was a testament to the amazing contribution Dave has made over the years both as a volunteer and as the Director of Lichfield Arts. Everyone in the organisation wishes him every success in the future. We are now working to do the challenging task of replacing Dave and are looking to recruit a Commercial Operations Manager and Artistic Programme Co-ordinator."

Details about other events put on by Lichfield Arts and the job vacancies can be found on Lichfield Arts website: lichfieldarts.org.uk

Armed forces Day at the NMA

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n Saturday 28th June, despite early rainfall, Armed Forces Day at the National Memorial Arboretum was attended by visitors in their thousands who came to show their support and appreciation for the Armed Forces community.

A host of activities and displays took place throughout the day to entertain visitors of all ages, including a circus skills workshop, children’s craft activities, a cadet drill display and a Royal Army Physical Training Corps gym display. There were also performances from several choirs, including Cannock Ex-Service Men’s choir, and from The Trinity Dance Group.

The presentation of the Ride to the Wall 2013 cheque was particularly well attended, with a record breaking £82,750 donated to the Arboretum from last year’s remarkable motorcycle event. This brings the total funds raised by the annual event for the Arboretum to over £316,000.

The planned flypast of World War I aircraft was unable to take place because of the weather conditions, but the RAF’s Dakota flypast was an unexpected highlight of the day.

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August 1914 in Lichfield

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By John Gallagher

here cannot be many people oblivious to the centenary we are celebrating and commemorating this year. In its variations it has been known as the European crisis, The Great War or World War One and as memories recede, it has now become important to the current generation to try and place our ancestors in some context within the history and the turmoil of the era.

The Great War currently holds a fascination for us and whether this is just a fleeting interest, all of us have some distant relatives and family members that were involved. Whether it was on the battlefields, the munitions factories or the support at the home front, along with so many other places, the inhabitants and the streets of Lichfield were quickly swathed in the euphoria, unprecedented excitement and enthusiastic large crowds throughout August 1914.

In the days leading to the Bank Holiday weekend, an increasing number of people began to recognise the impact of what was happening overseas and being a garrison city at the beginning of the twentieth century, military activity and affairs were the accepted way of daily life, but now war fever was spreading, everyone beset by rumours and the mobilisation of troops based at Whittington Barracks.

This weekend was the first Monday in August, a

day of the usual holiday enthusiasm and entertainments when everyone would have the opportunity to promenade the walks and parks of the city, or enjoy the annual Horticultural show held in the Recreation grounds alongside military bands, performing artists and acrobatics of the Chasetown Gym Club.

Anticipation, uncertainty and tension increased throughout the day, and the enthusiastic gathering jostled or waited for any glimmer of news in the hours leading up to the 11pm ultimatum on August 4th. However, the majority of people only heard the news confirming that the country was at war the following day.

Immediately, The smaller independent grocers and bakers increased their prices, even though Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

there were swiftly issued official warnings against hoarding and profiteering; all the Banks closed and numerous shops did the same owing to a lack of provisions due to the ability of the few to panic buy . Notices appeared that “customers will not be supplied with any more than a normal weeks supply”, these were not exceptional.

On the outbreak of war, the city, normally quiet and peaceful as a rule, presented the spectacle of a place in frenzy. It was an everyday occurrence for large crowds to congregate outside the Guildhall to find information, to hear any rumour and just wait in the hot weather while all the time, the sight of heavy trucks churning up the dust of the roadways.

The exodus had continued with scenes of unparalleled enthusiasm as hundreds of trains were crammed with soldiers of all regiments passing regularly through Lichfield. Day by day there was a steady tramp of men from the stations to enlist with organised trains running day and night and the panic of attempting to cater for the thousands of new arrivals.

Both of the railway stations swarmed with khaki and any available transport was requisitioned to transport them the few miles to the barracks. The reports of noisy and drunk men, and numerous exsoldiers were already in a state of inebriation causing disorder, unlawful activities and drunken brawls. After being held in the police cells overnight, they were presented to the courts and told to redeem themselves by immediately rejoining the regiments.

The Staffordshire Yeomanry were busily engaged in obtaining horses with the assistance of Winterton & Sons and brewery companies and livery stable proprietors were all commandeered.

All the larger and more prestigious buildings were taken over for the accommodation of the arriving troops. All the Schools and even the skating rink in Beacon Street were requisitioned for the quartering of the Reservists.

The territorials, Lichfield ‘E’ company were rushed back from the annual training camp in Wales, and were packed into the Guildhall, with a sentry posted on the steps allowing no unauthorised personnel into the building. A card was issued where all members were requested to bring to the meeting other eligible men who had not already joined up. Enticement, enlistment and patriotism were immediately part of the surrounding scenarios of home front activity. This assembly of a 100 strong men left for the 12 mile march to the Headquarters at Burton upon Trent amid frenzied public excitement, the likes which had never been seen.

In the first few weeks, the paper had deemed it important to keep a running total of volunteers,

and 1,400 had enlisted in the one week alone. The call for more volunteers had gathered pace by the end of the month and a public meeting was held to enrol as many new recruits as possible. Once again congregated in the historic setting of the Guildhall, the Mayor began his introduction by “ladies and gentleman your country wants you to fight its battles, but it was the words of Captain Longstaff which resonate now. His words so early on and the imagery they create of “the great army of shirkers need not be surprised if ladies provided white feathers as the only decoration they deserved” draws attention to the view that cowardice or nonparticipation in the war was already pervading the home front. Inevitably this gathered a strong response as many rose and stepped forward to enlist.

The following morning Bore Street was heavily lined with the mixture of disconsolate families, spectators and well-wishers to watch them depart, gathered in their work or best suit clothes. This new group of recruits assembled in front of crowd, listening as they sang the National Anthem before taking a steady march to the station for the train to Burton upon Trent to join the battalion. The scene was hectic, rushed and poignant and at 12.30 precisely, all hats were “doffed to the patriotic boys and the cheers shook the rafters.”

Along with many other towns and cities, collections of Funds were swiftly subscribed to including substantial amounts from the Breweries, Colonel Swinfen Broun, but the contributions from railway porters, the female shop workers and the boys from the truant school were just as important as everyone was anxious to do something to show patriotism. The church parishes organised working parties or sewing groups where women prepared all sorts of garments to be shipped overseas. All the football was abandoned “owing to many of their players having gone to war, the club decided to cancel all the fixtures for the forthcoming season.

Instead another subscription was opened with the purpose of sending cigarettes to the soldiers.

In the last days of the month, as children began to play soldiers, rumours began to circulate about Russian soldiers passing through the city from Leith on the way to Belgium. This story gained credence by numerous eye–witness accounts at other locations throughout the country and the newspapers reporting it. Unsurprisingly, no such thing occurred and there was no truth in the matter, but along with the accusations of a German national living in Netherstowe and the carrying out clandestine operations for the German army, these were further episodes in the “August Madness”.

Extracted from the forthcoming book about Lichfield on the Home Front 1914 -1919 due out in 2015 (C) John Gallagher

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Page 50 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

evening of Candlelit vigil O 4 August 2014, the date which to mark World marks 100 years since Britain War I entered World Centenary NWara t i I,o n thea l n

the

M e m o r i a l Arboretum in Staffordshire will hold a candlelit vigil on the Armed Forces Memorial to commemorate all who served and sacrificed during the War. The moving service will include prayers, readings, music and poetry and will give visitors to the Arboretum, which is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities, a rare opportunity to explore its beautiful grounds in the evening.

The Arboretum’s diverse World War I Centenary

commemorative programme was launched in the spring with the introduction of three special self-led trails to enable visitors of all ages to discover many of the trees and memorials linked to the Great War by fascinating people and stories.

Other events this summer include an outdoor screening of Stephen Spielburg’s War Horse on the evening of Tuesday 22 July.

A series of special World War I Weekends is planned to provide families with the opportunity to learn together and engage in the commemorations over the next four years. Designed to be enjoyable yet thought-provoking, a variety of special activities, including World War I trails, talks, craft activities and costumed interpreters will take place this summer; on the weekends of 26-27 July and 16-17 August. A children’s World War I drama workshop is also planned for Saturday 16 August.

Julie Edwards & Ron Thompson of Planet Art will be the Artists in Residence at the Arboretum for a week, from 28 July to 4 August.

In addition to its onsite trails and activities the Arboretum will be welcoming visitors as part of The Staffordshire Great War Trail throughout the World War I centenary period; linking it with the Cannock Chase military training camps and war cemeteries and The Staffordshire Regiment Museum, to give a comprehensive picture of Staffordshire’s contribution to the Great War. For further details of the World War I Weekends or to reserve a place for the World War I drama workshop, visit: http://www.thenma.org.uk/events/world-war-iweekends To purchase tickets for the Cinema evening, call: 0844 858 6767 or visit: http://www.thelunacinema.com/nma/4584061428

Fusion Now Managing Jigsaw Centre

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usion Credit Union has signed an agreement with Lichfield District Council for the management of the Jigsaw Community Hub in Dimbles Lane, North Lichfield.

Jigsaw opened in 2007 as part of the North Lichfield Initiative to provide a focal point for community services in the area, but as part of the Council’s Fit for the Future Change Programme, future management of the Jigsaw facility became uncertain and it was feared that Jigsaw might close. Fusion has used the facility at Jigsaw for a twice weekly collection point for many years and was keen to maintain and extend this service for its members in north Lichfield.

Peter Selwyn, Fusion’s President said: “We expressed an interest in taking over the management of Jigsaw and are very pleased that Fusion was selected by Lichfield District Council to help maintain this valuable resource for the community. Jigsaw will remain available for local organisations to use as before”.

Fusion’s ‘back office’ administration has now been transferred from Lichfield CVS offices in Bore Street to the Jigsaw Community Hub. This will result in extending the Collection Point opening hours at Jigsaw. For more information call 01543 415032 or go to www.fusioncreditunion.co.uk

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Do you remember when?

T

hanks again to Dave Gallagher of local history group ‘You’re probably from Lichfield, Staffs if...’ for these pictures of our shops and businesses as they used to look, plus a couple that may very well jog a few memories!

This highly popular group has a thriving facebook site where Lichfieldians share their memories of the city. They also hold regular meetings where everyone is welcome. Come along to see old photographs, books and video clips of the city and chat with lots of lovely like-minded people.

The next meeting takes place at Netherstowe Youth Centre, St Chad’s Road, Lichfield at 7pm on Tuesday 5th August.

Burges – now Aldi

Aldi under construction.

Burger House Tamworth Street

Bertha

Bird Street

On the site of the old ‘What’ shop

This chair originally stood in Victoria Hospital ‘Minors’ casualty department. It is now in Samuel Johnson hospital.

A&B Lock in ‘The Precinct’ Bakers Lane

Greenhill crossroads

Betta Pets on Lombard Street

Nevilles Stonemason Sandford Street

Lichfield ‘character’ Bertha

Bird Street

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GazetteStyle

Page 53

New Memorial Embroidery Unveiled

T

he Burntwood Memorial Tapestry was unveiled on Friday May 23rd 2014 in the entrance of the Burntwood Memorial Community Association (Burntwood Institute).

Previously there was a memorial plaque in the entrance of the Hall which was removed when the new Memorial Stone was erected in the grounds.

The Memorial Embroidery was designed by Barbara Marshall and worked by Nicola Buffin, Pauline Goodfellow, Catherine and Maureen Degregorio, Jan Gillett, Bette Hanson, Pauline Larner, June McDearmid, Barbara Marshall, Jackie Perry, Ken Whinrey and Anne Wooliscroft, all members of 'Embroidery for Burntwood Community' It shows scenes of an industrial coal mine and the beauty of Cannock Chase. Both would be familiar to the men who served in either of the two world wars. In the Great War local Miner’s skills were in demand to construct tunnels and trenches. Some of the men were known as the Chase Terriers. Cannock Chase had the distinction of being the site of training camps used in both World Wars. Enlisted recruits came from all over the country, and were housed in what became temporary towns. They could not help but admire the beauty of Cannock Chase.

At the dedication ceremony the embroidery was received on behalf of the Hall by Gwyneth

Howells, a Trustee of the Institute.

The unveiling was carried out by Jean and Colin Main whose son was shot down whilst on active service in He was Iraq. educated at Chasetown High School and he had always wanted to be a pilot.

The project, which is in 3D embroidery, took three years to complete and cost ÂŁ3,000. The Group wishes to thank to all who helped with funding including Burntwood Town Council, Aldi, Co-op, Lichfield District Council, Councillor Paul Atkins and Tom Ford of Unique Interiors plus all those who have made donations, and special thanks to Burntwood Family History Group who provided background information.

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

Theatrical Treats for July/August

By Phil Preece

Summer’s really going full swing now but here in theatre-land we’re planning what we’ll be watching in September, and I’ve already got my eyes on a few things locally that look like making it a month to remember.

On Saturday 6th I’m intrigued to see legendary drag artist Ceri Dupree will be coming to the Garrick’s main house, promising to deliver Hollywood glamour and a laugh-out-loud giggle fest, so that should cheer us up as the nights draw in. Then on Sunday 7th and Monday 8th legendary rock n’roller Joe Brown, a recent Mojo award winner will be performing hits old and new in his inimitable style. Rock on!

What’s On July/August 2014

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

Local Heroes At St Mary’s on the Market Square. A temporary exhibition to commemorate the sacrifice and the courage of those who fought in WW1.

With both artefacts and stories of local men & women the exhibition will run until the end of the year. Entrance is £2.50 for adults, £2 for concessions & £1 for children (this includes the whole exhibition area, including the fantastic Sylvia Everett M.B.E Millennium Embroideries and the Treasury. For further information telephone 01543 256611 or call into St Mary's.

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Another famous survivor, Jimmy Tarbuck OBE will be in the Garrick’s main house on Saturday 13th taking audiences on a nostalgic trip via photos and video footage with comedy for “grown ups” rather than adult humour.

I like the sound of Open All Hours too, on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st, an acclaimed adaptation by its originator Roy Clark OBE of the legendary BBC t.v. series to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Can it really have been that long?

For the young, and the young at heart, Joe McElderry X Factor winner 2009 comes to town on Monday 22nd as part of his Set Your Soul Alive tour. Then Tuesday 23rd sees ventriloquist Paul Zerdin arriving with his brand new show featuring your favourite sponge characters, stand up and some wicked audience

Mon 21 Jul - Fri 29 Aug Summer Holiday Fun Lichfield District Council Leisure Services have a full programme of activities at various venues throughout the summer holidays including holiday clubs, sports courses, dancing and drama clubs and much more. Just go to www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayf un for more information and to book.

Tue 22nd Jul The Luna Cinema - War Horse At National Memorial Arboretum. Doors open at 7:30pm, film starts at 9.00. A special evening showing of the film War Horse, directed

by Steven Spielberg, which is based on the novel by children’s writer Michael Morpurgo.

Wed 23 Jul CPCG Pipe Hill Common 10.30am to 3.00pm at Pipe Hill Common. Twice a month event to help improve green spaces. Countryside Parks & Conservation Group is a friendly crowd who roll up their sleeves to help Lichfield District Council’s countryside and parks team. Volunteers have the chance to learn

practical skills, meet new people, and to enhance the local environment. We recommend wearing appropriate clothes for the weather and sturdy footwear.

The volunteer days are open to anyone over 18. To book your free place please call 01543 308183.

The Wizard of Oz 6.30pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. A magical outdoor production following Dorothy’s journey on the Yellow Brick Road - perfect for all the family! Tickets: £14 per adult, £8 per child (under 16), family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) £38, available from hotel reception.

Thu 24 Jul Senior Citizens’ Summer Lunch At The George Hotel. A delicious 3 course lunch with a glass of Buck’s Fizz or orange juice on arrival. Entertainment will be provided by Holly Hewitt who has the voice of a Hollywood starlet - she will entertain you with popular jazz and blues songs. To book please call 01543 414822. £17.50 per person

participation. He was in panto at the Hippodrome last year and believe me, he really is the business.

I’ve got to mention Vienna Festival Ballet’s visit to the Garrick main house from Thursday 25th to Saturday 27th plus Saturday matinee of their brand new production of Snow White. This really is one of the very best small touring ballet companies who always have superb young dancers.

The month ends with Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre’s production of Cats, one of the world’s bestloved musicals running from Tuesday 30th September to Saturday 4th October. With their impressive track record and a 50 strong cast this is definitely one to book early for - they always sell out fast.

See you there!

Phil

Avenue Q - The Musical 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

The award - winning laugh out loud musical that's part flesh, part felt and packed with heart! Not suitable for under 16s.

Lichfield Civic Society 7.45pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. Talk on "Lichfield Water The Fight Against Cholera" by David Moore. All are welcome to this meeting of the Lichfield Civic Society. Members Free. Non members £3 at the door

Sat 26 - Sun 27 Jul World War I Family Weekends 9.00am to 5.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum.

Designed to provide families with the opportunity to learn together and engage in the commemorations over the next four years. Enjoyable yet thought-provoking, the activities, combined with our beautiful grounds and memorials, provide the perfect leisurely summer’s day out.

Sat 26th Jul Kings Bromley Show 9.30am to 5.00pm at Kings Bromley Showground. Annual country show this year themed

on 'The Seaside'. A great value, full day out for all the family. All day from 10am 5pm Amusements including funfair, non-commercial and trade stands and refreshments. Visit www.kingsbromleyshow.co.uk our website for more information.

Community Drop In 11.00am to 12 noon at Beacon Park. Talk with members of the parks team about how local parks could be improved. We want to hear your concerns and suggestions. We will be based in the Lakeside Bistro or just outside on dry days.

Avenue Q - The Musical 2.30pm and 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. See Thu 24 for details.

Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Bring along the family for an amazing ‘white knuckle’ experience and once you make it to the top you can enjoy a spectacular birds-eye view of the city of Lichfield and beyond! Each Tower Tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, tickets are priced at £6.50 per

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD person or you can purchase a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children for £20.00. Due to the nature of this Tour, age and health restrictions apply. The Tower Tour passes through restricted and narrow spaces, baggage must be left at ground level and sensible footwear must be worn. You will be asked to complete a disclaimer form by your Tour Leader in advance of your climb. To book your ticket please visit the Shop No.9 The Close or call 01543 306150 Sun 27 Jul Let’s Do It On The Lawn Designer Made and Vintage Summer Market 10.00am to 4.00pm at Market Square Lichfield. Celebrate warm Summer days and walking barefoot in the park at our super summer market. Find the best in handmade creativity and retro style in our Market with a passion for fashion. Local design and vintage vibe and everything to make the most of summer sunshine.

Meet the World War I Heroes 10.00am to 4.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. We are bringing history alive this summer!

Throughout the day meet our special costumed interpreters; a WWI nurse, chaplain and an officer who will be on hand to tell you about their vital roles, how they would have lived during the conflicts and what being on the front really meant.

Alrewas Village Tour 2.00pm at Lichfield City. A walking tour around the pretty and historic village which is also very close to the magnificent National Memorial Arboretum. £6.00 per person to include a cup of tea or coffee and scone at the George and Dragon public house. Call 01543 256611.

Wed 30 Jul Wildlife Wednesdays 9.00am to 5.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. A haven for wildlife and it’s the perfect place for budding zoologists to enjoy some summer fun. A range of 1 hour sessions for children every week - only 30 places per session are available so booking is advised. Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. Information: To book your place on one of our Wildlife Wednesdays, please call 01283 792 333 or email info@thenma.org.uk

Georgian Gems 2.00pm at Lichfield City. Lichfield was home to many famous Georgian characters and this tour charts their history. £6 per person to include a delicious cream tea at St Mary's coffee shop following your tour. Call 01543 256611.

Fri 1 Aug - Sun 3 Aug 'Dig It' Pop Up Shop and Tea Room At Three Spires Shopping Centre.

Lots of beautiful treasure for you including unique stained glass creations, beautiful painted furniture pieces, deliciously scented soy wax candles, a little bit of bunting, pretty aprons, fabulous soaps... all interspersed with glorious vintage treasures.

When your shopping is complete sit down, relax and enjoy the elegance of morning coffee or afternoon tea to raise funds for the incredible St. Giles Hospice.

Sat 2 Aug Specialist Plant Fair 10.00am to 4.00pm at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Plant Fair featuring highly respected specialist nurseries with a great range of perennials, shrubs, trees, rare species and old heritage varieties. Free entry to the Arboretum and plant fair (charge to park)

National Day of Stitch 10.00am to 4.00pm at Beacon Park. Come and join the Lichfield Guild of Embroiderers for a day of fun and stitching. You don't have to be able to stitch just come down to Museum Gardens, Beacon Park and enjoy making sari silk cards. For more information call 01543 415204

Every Object Tells a Story 10.30am to 2.30pm at St Mary's in the Market Square. Come and hear about strange, odd and even bizarre items and find out the stories behind them. £2.50 adults, £2 concessions.

Cupcake Class Join Netherstowe House Hotel's professional cake maker for a hands-on opportunity to develop your cake decorating skills in a fun, practical and supportive learning environment whilst relaxing in beautiful surroundings. £55.00 per person (including lunch) To book call 01543 254 270

When was the last time you visited the

‘Mucky Duck’ at Fradley Junction

Do you think the people of Paris are up the Eiffel Tower every weekend, or those who live in Athens take time to admire the Acropolis close up? It’s a bit like us living so close to Fradley Junction…we know it’s marvelous, but rarely go to visit. And what better time to do so than during summer when the scenery is at it’s very best.

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

Something for everyone

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

Over the past six years Rick & Tracey have resisted the urge to make The Swan into a trendy ‘gastro pub’ and kept it as a traditional canalside-socialising pub that folk have loved for well over two hundred years. Open 7 days a week, The Swan has something for everybody – it’s a retreat from the hurly burly of everyday life. It has a Sunday Carvery every week 12-3 with five meats and fresh vegetables for £10 inc. sweet and coffee. Lunch is served Mon-Sat 12-2.30 with a full menu available every evening 5.30 – 9pm.

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

Beer and entertainment

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

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

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

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

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Sun 3 Aug WWI Edwardian Fete & Fair 10.00am to 5.00pm at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Edwardian extravaganza to commemorate the outbreak of WW1. Come along to our Edwardian Tea tent for authentic cakes and lunches, explore the WW1 trench and meet Charlie Chaplin, suffragettes and soldiers! Edwardian fairground, theatre, music, hog roast and opportunity to shop with an impressive and extensive collection of stalls selling vintage items and much more.

Middleton Motors Monthly 10.00am to 1.00pm at Middleton Hall. For vehicles that make you go MMM… Do you own a vehicle that turns heads? Old, new, fast, slow, big, small If you love it – come

&

and show it. Come along to Middleton Hall on the first Sunday of every month.

Mon 4 Aug Meet the World War I Heroes 10.00am to 4.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. See Thu 27 Jul for details.

Candlelit Vigil for World War I 5.00pm to 9.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. Marking the start of Britain's entry into World War I on 4 August 1914, with a candlelit vigil on the Armed Forces Memorial. This moving service will include prayers, readings and poetry, as well as musical performances from a choir.

Service 8pm Admission: Free, donations are appreciated; candles will be available for purchase.

Tue 5 Aug Lichfield Flea & Bric-A-Brac Fair 9.30am to 3.00pm at Guildhall.

A treasure trove of vintage

collectables, unique bric-abrac & beautiful trinkets. With a selection of quality stalls and a friendly shopping atmosphere the day proves to be an exciting one. We anticipate a high demand for stalls so book early to avoid disappointment. Please email queeniesbazaar@hotmail.co.uk

Neaten and Natter 11.00am to 1.00pm at Beacon Park. Our volunteer group is a great way to meet new people and help keep Beacon Park looking at its best. Tasks include litter picking, weeding and more. We’ll provide all the equipment and you can choose which tasks you want to get involved in.

Wed 6 Aug Wildlife Wednesdays At National Memorial Arboretum. See Wed 30 July for details.

Lee Garden

CPCG Muckley Corner 10.30am to 3.00pm at Muckley

SPECIAL OFFER JULY/AUGUST ONLY!

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

&

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

Book now f o r yo u r special party

Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388 Page 58 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Corner Common. See Wed 23 Jul for details.

Wacky Wednesdays 11.30am to 1.00pm or 2.00pm - 3.30pm at Erasmus Darwin House. Themed fun summer crafts for children aged 5 - 15 years. Something different every week! £2 per child booking advisable; call 01543 306260.

Thu 7 Aug Moth Recording Morning 8.30am to 9.00am at Beacon Park. Identify moths caught in traps from the night before.

We can’t guarantee any moths will be caught. Any that are will be released following event.

Meet at the Discovery Hub. Summer Fun at Sam's House 10.30am to 1.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

Drop-in arts and crafts fun and games throughout the holiday.

A different activity every week. £2.

Fri 7 & Sat 8 Aug Big Second Hand Booksale 10.00am-2.00pm each day at Lichfield Methodist Church where there will be thousands of books on all subjects at appealing prices. We welcome book donations- please contact Don Male 252653.

Fri 8 - Sun 10 Aug 'Dig It' Pop Up Shop and Tea Room At Three Spires Shopping Centre. See Fri 1st Aug for details.

Sat 9 Aug Bumblebee Walk 2.00 pm at The Wolseley Centre, Headquarters of Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

Arranged by Lichfield Wildlife Group, this free 1½ hour walk will be led by Ron Rock, an expert on the many varieties of bumblebee to be seen in the UK. Do join us if you can for what should be a great walk looking closely at these fascinating creatures. For more information please contact Ray Allen. 01543 251654.

Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Chocolate Truffle Class In this hands-on class at Netherstowe House you will enjoy a welcoming environment whilst learning how the tempering of chocolate is done before tasting chocolate and teaching your taste buds how to really pick up on flavour. Under expert guidance from Netherstowe House's chocolatier you will discover which ingredients work best and by the end of the class you will have your own range of gift wrapped hand-made chocolates to take home. £55.00 per person (including lunch). To book call 01543 254 270.

Monday 11 August The Lost Pubs of Lichfield Walk Join local history group Lichfield Discovered for a pub crawl with a difference! A guided tour of the pubs of Lichfield where time has most definitely been called at the bar! However, they’ll ensure that the last old pub of the evening is still open for business. All welcome. Meet at St Mary’s in the Market Square at 7pm.

Wed 13 Aug Wildlife Wednesdays At National Memorial Arboretum. See Wed 30 Jul for details.

Beacon Park's Fun Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. A day of fun for all the family with games, sports and outdoor activities. Free entry.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 6 Aug for details.

Heritage Trail 2.00pm at Lichfield City.

Lichfield is one of the smallest cathedral cities in England and has a rich and varied past learn more about our city on this heritage tour. £6 per person to include a delicious cream tea at St Mary's coffee shop following your tour. Call 01543 256611.

60s Disco & BBQ – From 7.30pm at Moor Hall Hotel & Spa. Relive the fun of the flower power decade with a 60s disco & BBQ. £23 per person, or £99 for 2, including

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD BBQ, disco and an overnight stay.

Thu 14 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 7 Aug for details.

Fri 15 Aug The Shadow Of Cliff 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. If you missed Jimmy Jemain’s starring role in “Cliff The Musical” in London’s West End then don’t worry, he’s coming to Lichfield!

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Aug World War I Family Weekends At National Memorial Arboretum.

See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Aug Meet the World War I Heroes At National Memorial Arboretum.

See Sun 27 Jul for details.

Sat 16 Aug Lichfield Fake Festival 12.30pm to 11.45pm at Beacon Park. Tribute band music festival with local support bands. Tributes to Queen, Oasis and Coldplay.

Tickets available from at St Mary’s in the Market Square 01543 256611.

Children's Drama Day - World War I 9.00am to 5.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. Our younger visitors and budding actors and actresses have the chance to star in this historical play in a day. This special drama workshop, suitable for children between 8 -13 years, costs just £10 per child and advance booking is recommended as places are limited. The perfect way for children to hone their drama skills whilst absorbing the events of World War I. Families and visitors will reassemble later in the day to enjoy the show!

Parents and guardians must remain on site during the session.

Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

See Sat 26 Jul for details.

The Barron Knights 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. They are back! And by popular demand.

Tue 19 Aug Mini-monsters bug hunt and pond dipping 10.00am to 12 noon or 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Come down and enjoy our pond dipping and bug hunting sessions. £1 per child.

Wed 20 Aug Wildlife Wednesdays At National Memorial Arboretum.

See Wed 30 Jul for details.

CPCG Christian Fields 10.30am to 3.00pm at Christian Fields.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House. See Wed 6 Aug for details.

Pubs, Priests and Prostitutes 7.00pm at Lichfield City. Hear about some of Lichfield’s historic and interesting characters. No refreshments and cost £3 per person, tour only.

Thu 21 Aug Mini-monsters bug hunt and pond dipping At Beacon Park. See Tue 19 Aug for details.

Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 7 Aug for details.

Fri 22 & Sat 23 Aug 'Dig It' Gardeners Festival Weekend At Lichfield City Centre. We are holding our very first Gardeners Festival in the middle of the beautiful Cathedral City of Lichfield in Staffordshire. Tickets £10.00 available from www.lichfieldgarrick.com We are really looking forward to seeing you. We can help you Dig it, Grow it and Love it in your garden just that little bit more!

Sat 23 – Sat 30 Aug Alrewas Arts Festival At Alrewas Village. An eight-day free village arts festival featuring exhibitions, workshops, events and performances including drama, dance, film, poetry, storytelling and music, plus community art activities and an Arts Cafe. The festival starts with a street craft market and finishes with a twilight lantern parade and open air concert on Walkfield.

Tel: 01283 790054.

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Sat 23 Aug 2014 Party Night 7.30pm to 11.30pm at Boley Park Community Centre.

Come and join us at Boley Park Community Centre for an evening of Live Music from rock and roll band TRIP. Doors and licensed bar open at 7.30pm, food will be available from 8pm. The evening is in support of Cats Protection. £10.

Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Mon 25 Aug Traditional Family Fun Day 11.00am to 4.00pm at Middleton Hall. Traditional family fun, games, stalls and children's activities. Lots of indoor activities if it rains.

The Great Scarecrow Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve. Come along to our popular make a scarecrow day. Use your imagination to create your competition entry. £5 per scarecrow

Pubs, Priests and Prostitutes At Lichfield City. See Wed 20 Aug for details.

Wed 27 Aug Wildlife Wednesdays At National Memorial Arboretum. See Wed 30 Jul for details.

Wacky Wednesdays At Erasmus Darwin House.

See Wed 6 Aug for details.

Thu 28 Aug Summer Fun at Sam's House At Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See Thu 7 Aug for details.

Fri 29 Aug Marty MacDonald’s Farm 11.30am or 2.00pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Featuring the voice of cBeebies favourite Justin Fletcher. Come and join in the adventure, make new friends and sing along to your favourite songs.

Sat 30 & Sun 31 Aug Lichfield Food Festival This two-day event will see free cookery demonstrations

Page 60 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

by local and regional chefs, a specialist Lichfield Food Festival Market, The Best of Local Brewers, food and drink trails, a baking competition and much more taking place across the city. For more information about events and venues go to www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

Sat 30 Aug Community Drop In At Beacon Park. See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Arrival UK - The No.1 International ABBA Tribute 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Arrival UK one of the most sought after tribute bands in the world today.

Lichfield Cathedral Tower Tour 12.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. See Sat 26 Jul for details.

Sun 31 Aug Laurent Perrier Summer Gourmet Dinner 7.00pm at Netherstowe House.

Netherstowe House welcomes you for a sumptuous evening of the finest food, accompanied by the very best champagnes for LaurentPerrier. Call 01543 254270 for details.

Venue Contact Details

Beacon Park - Swan Rd, Lichfield WS13 6QZ

Boley Park Community Centre - Ryknild Street, Lichfield WS14 9XU Christian Fields - Eastern Avenue, Lichfield WS13 7EE. Erasmus Darwin House Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260 The Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6LX

Kings Bromley Showground Crawley Lane, Kings Bromley, Nr Burton on Trent DE13 7JF Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD

Lichfield Garrick Theatre Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR

Lichfield Methodist Church – Tamworth St, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Middleton Hall – Middleton, Tamworth B78 2AE

Moor Hall Hotel & Spa - Moor Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield Tel: 0121 308 3751 National Memorial Arboretum Croxall Rd, Alrewas, Burtonon-Trent DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792333

Netherstowe House Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6AY

Pipe Hill Common - Southwest of Lichfield at the junction of the A461 Walsall Road with the A5190 Lichfield Road.

RSPB Middleton Lakes – Middleton, B78 2AE. Tel: 01827 259454

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum - Breadmarket St Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972

Staffordshire Regiment Museum – Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394

St Mary’s in the Market Square - Market Square, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG Three Spires Shopping Centre - 12 Gresley Row, Lichfield WS13 6JF The Wolseley Centre - A51, between Stafford & Rugeley ST17 0WT.

Shakespeare in the Park 2014

I

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

have an admission to make, I’m not a fan of Shakespeare. Well, that’s not quite true, I enjoy reading his plays, and I’ve enjoyed quite a few film versions of his most popular works (Ralph Fiennes’ Coriolanus springs to mind, if you haven’t seen it, it’s fantastic) but where I fall down is live, acted Shakespeare. It’s the main reason why, despite living in Lichfield for years, I’ve never been to ‘Shakespeare in the Park’. It turns out that I’ve been missing rather a treat.

‘Shakespeare in the Park’ is a series of performances of a classic Shakespeare play that take place in the grounds of Maple Hayes Hall every year. The actors are all amateurs, produced and directed by a team who have been staging Shakespeare plays for decades.

This year, the ‘Shakespeare in the Park’ company settled on Romeo and Juliet, a deceptively simple but enormously difficult play to perform. I headed out on Friday June 20th for the evening performance not knowing what to expect.

Due to the rural setting I parked my car as directed in a field off The Abnalls, and followed the crowd a short way into a really rather beautiful woodland. As it was a balmy evening, the setting looked magical. In a clearing the audience were seated on hay bales, looking out on to the stage that used minimal props (a raised structure for the famous balcony scene etc) and of course made use of the old oaks that dotted the clearing.

The standard of the acting was high throughout. Romeo (played by Patrick Jervis) and Juliet (Lucy Bishop) did great service to two difficult roles. Tybalt (Beth Dunmore) and Mercutio (Robin Lewitt) had just the right amount of swagger mixed with menace nicely counterpointed by Benvolio’s reasoned pragmatism (Ellie Galvin).

Special mention must go to Friar Lawrence (Chris Stanley) and Juliet’s Nurse (Ruth Hawkins) who stole every scene they were in.

Our own town crier Ken Knowles also looked very regal as The Prince. All in all, the cast tackled this tragic love story with admirable light and dark throughout.

The only disappointment was that, unlike the rest of the audience, I had neglected to pack the sort of sumptuous dinner that was being produced from picnic baskets all around me when we arrived that evening, and that I didn’t bring a blanket to ameliorate the prickles of the hay bale seating. Next year, I’ll be prepared.

Beauty

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Lichfield 7th Scout group benefit from fundraising

L

ichfield Ladies Circle held its c h e q u e presentation with the Beaver Pageant colony on Tuesday the 10th of June 2014; the donated £280 funds have gone towards buying a cooker to help allow the Beavers experience their first overnight camp from the age of seven.

The group held its cheque presentation evening after a year of fundraising and social events which all helped contribute to the raised funds.

Lichfield Ladies Circle meets once a fortnight on a Tuesday, if you’d like to find out more about joining in the fun, email: info@lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk call 08001488595 or visit the website at www.lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk Page 62 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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