Lichfield Gazette July 2013

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

JULY 2013 ISSUE 51

See details on page 46 News • Competitions • Gazette Woman • What’s On • Dining Out

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July 2013 Lichfield

G azette contents

6 Netherstowe House Competition 24 Win Hot Summer Saturday Date at Trentham Gardens 42 Tudor Row Feature 49 Gazette Woman 49 Win £25 to spend at A Touch of Class 51 Win £75 to spend at Debenhams 55 What’s On/Dining Out 62 Small Ads

Editor’s Notes Flowers, Fuse and Festival Summer in the City Now is not the time to take a summer holiday, not when there is so much going on in Lichfield. The town, and gardens everywhere are blooming marvellous and it seems everyone is trying that little bit harder to make things nicer.

Well done to the Park Department for getting the park and public gardens looking so good. If we don’t walk away with the England in Bloom ‘Gold’ this year, then there’s no justice to be had!

All the shops are at long last becoming filled or at least under offer, and I predict a boom-time for the City with few empty retail premises left. Very soon Lichfield is going to be the place to be – mark my words.

The Lichfield Festival and Florette Festival Market are always well organised affairs and this year will be no exception, so hurry and get your tickets (see details in this magazine).

Fuse has got a special feel this year with something for everyone, and don’t forget it’s a free festival – there is a full Rock Stage this year with the emphasis on ‘local bands’.

Don’t miss the Jazz & Blues together with real ale, fine food and excellent craft stalls.

Add to this Burntwood Wakes, the Alrewas Show, Party in the Park in Little Aston, and Darwin Walk, plus Cars in the Park, sponsored by the Express & Star – so many good reasons to get out into the fresh air.

So I’m sorry, all leave is cancelled and road-blocks are in place to stop anyone leaving Lichfield until you are all partied out!

Yours truly, Paul Oakley. Editor

The front cover image courtesy of Lichfield Festival

Win lunch for two at Netherstowe House page 6

contributors • • • •

Caz Jones Laura Bowcutt PG Mitchell Ann Mayo

• • • •

Joss Musg rove Knibb Adrian Ruck Dan Mitchell Kate Gomez

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.

contact the Gazette see page 62 Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Win Tickets to The Telegraph CRUISE Show!

- The UK’s biggest event for discovering a world of voyages.

NEC, Birmingham: 21st-22nd September 2013 Whether you’re an experienced ocean traveller, a lover of laidback culturally rich river cruises, or completely new to the wonders of cruising - you are sure to find inspiration and advice for your next voyage at The Telegraph CRUISE Show. There is an amazing array of destinations and cruise styles available, some you may never have discovered before, so let The Telegraph CRUISE Show bring you the whole spectrum of incredible holidays afloat and make it easy for you to find your ideal cruise.

The show is your only chance to meet with all the major and specialist cruise lines under one roof and ask those all important questions face-to-face, plus you can hear directly from the cruise experts about what’s new for 2014, gather impartial advice you won’t find in the brochure and save thousands of pounds with the exclusive show only offers.

For more show information, talk timetables and a full exhibitors list please visit www.cruisingshow.com.

We are giving 5 lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show!

Just answer this simple question below: Q. Where is the Birmingham Telegraph CRUISE Show taking place?

A. The Guild Hall B. Birmingham ExCel C. The NEC Just send your answer, name and contact details to Lichfield Gazette Cruise Show Competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk Closing date Monday 2nd September. Winners will be notified by Friday 6th September. One entry per household please. Duplicates will be disqualified. Good luck!

Courtesy of Crystal Cruises

READER’S TICKET OFFER:

Organisers of the Cruise Show are also offering Lichfield Gazette readers reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for £4 (that’s saving of £6 off the door price) by quoting ‘LICHFIELD’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow.com or when calling 0871 620 4024. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras) Page 5

GazetteNews

Husband and wife duo join Bill Gates and celebrity supporters to protest against hunger O

n Saturday 8th June over 100 campaigners from the West Midlands including a couple from Lichfield joined Big IF London: a huge public rally that took place in London’s Hyde Park against hunger.

Jenna and Stuart Wills from Lichfield were amongst several hundred people from across the West Midlands who travelled to London as part of the Enough Food For Everyone IF campaign; a coalition of over 200 UK organisations campaigning for action by G8 leaders to eliminate hunger.

The free event featured inspiring speeches from philanthropist Bill Gates, former Archbishop of Canterbury and Chair of Christian Aid Rowan Williams and broadcaster Natasha Kaplinsky.

Specially recorded messages from David Beckham and Eddie Izzard were also broadcast to the crowd.

Oxfam campaigners Jenna, 28, and Stuart, 29, were inspired to get involved after supporting Make Poverty History in 2005 whilst studying at Birmingham University.

Jenna, who is originally from Walsall said: “Make Poverty History was an amazing time for us. We remember being so exuberant at the live showing of the concert in Cannon Hill Park because of the amazing atmosphere. People thought we were drunk! The Big IF is another chance to be a part of history and take part in an amazing event. Change won’t happen if people sit back and do nothing. It is a real opportunity to show the UK and the world that we want an end to hunger and injustice.”

Gethin Jones and Myleene Klass hosted the rally with appearances from campaign supporters including Grammy Award winning singer Angelique Kidjo.

Bill Gates, who spoke at the event, commented: “The UK is a critical champion for global development. And once again the UK is demonstrating its leadership by putting agriculture and nutrition at the top of the political agenda. I am delighted to offer my support to the IF campaign.”

Super Tidy or Queen of Clutter?

Channel 4 needs you!

The independent TV production company ‘Betty’ are making a second series of their hit show ‘Obsessive Compulsive Cleaners’ for Channel 4 and are looking for people to take part.

This primetime series features a team of compulsive cleaners who teach Britain’s most disorganised people some valuable lessons in housekeeping. Transforming their unkempt environments and creating order where there once was chaos.

Are you obsessed with cleaning and do you spend hours a day dusting, polishing and vacuuming?

Perhaps you are passionate about tidying? Are your socks colour-coded and your kitchen cupboards spotless?

Or is your home in need of a serious spring clean? Do you avoid housekeeping at all costs?

Perhaps your living room is bursting with junk and clutter and you’re too embarrassed to have people around?

If you are interested in finding out more about being on the show, just get in touch with ‘Betty’ by calling 02079070892 or emailing clean@betty.co.uk

Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT! Win a Lunch for Two (MonThurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience.

A small, family owned and run boutique hotel and restaurant that strives to be the best, with a friendly, personal touch. The family and team are very proud to have been voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at this years Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards. Head Chef and his Kitchen Brigade have created a new Express Lunch menu for you to enjoy Monday to Saturday. The emphasis is on creating flavoursome, classic dishes with a modern twist, freshly produced on site using the finest seasonal ingredients.

Express Lunch Menu:2 Courses ~ £14.95; 3 Courses ~ £19.95 12 midday to 2:30pm (Mon - Fri), 1:00pm to 2:30pm (Sat)

issue and we need your help to find him. He might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than 21st July 2013 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).

The Editor will draw the winning entry and announce it in the next edition of Lichfield Gazette.

Congratulations to M Price of Chapel Lane, Whittington who spotted Minster on page 4 in the June magazine.

Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this

Good luck!!

Page 7

LG JULY2013

GazetteFeature

Building with light

-Local artist Lesley Westrop exhibits at Emporium Gallery. By Joss Musgrove Knibb L

esley Westrop grew up in a small hamlet close to Stratford upon Avon, and went to school in Warwick, another Cathedral City with a wealth of beautiful architecture.

From a very young age, Lesley knew that she wanted to be an artist, and in fact commented to me: “It was the only thing I was ever any good at.” Good at it she is, as one look around her Whittington studio confirms.

Lesley went to college in London, studying sculpture at Kingston University where the rambling workshops allowed her to explore many aspects of 3D art including casting in bronze.

After university, Lesley worked at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, maintaining and creating displays of the artefacts within this eccentric collection before moving to the Commonwealth Institute to create and repair their dioramas.

This led to an involvement in model making within the advertising and film industry, eventually allowing her to set up her own modelling company. Until relatively recently the effects needed to advertise products would be created by hands-on techniques including modelling, matte painting (painting on glass) and camera effects.

On the birth of her first daughter, Lesley and her husband relocated to Staffordshire to be nearer her Mum, moving to Whittington about Lesley in the studio

ten years ago.

Like many artists over the centuries, Lesley became fascinated by the beauty of Lichfield Cathedral. Over the last two years she has created a series of images that capture some of the essence of this many faceted building.

Lesley’s work takes the form of 2D paintings and drawings of both the interior and exterior of the Cathedral, often concentrating on a detail of stained glass or stone tracery. These studies of small features combine a figurative skill with colour and texture, so that there’s an abstract feel to what is familiar.

Anyone who is familiar with the cathedral will know what strange changes in colouration it goes through from hour to hour and season to season, shadows can often appear blue, purple or green and strong light on the stones can render them red, gold, orange or white.

Lesley’s work captures aspects of this and her Cathedral works have been selling well.

Both prints and greetings cards of her pieces are on sale at the Cathedral Shop and during the Lichfield Festival Lesley will be exhibiting a large selection of originals at the Emporium

Lesley with some of her work Gallery (guest curators of the Festival). The exhibition opened on 23rd June and continues until 14th July.

Pieces on display are created in many mediums including paint, pen and ink, watercolour, oil pastel and collage.

Lesley is a member of the Lichfield Life Drawing Group, and a member of Staffordshire Enjoy Art, taking part in the studio open weekends every year.

Lesley taught sculpture at South Staffordshire College (Lichfield) for some time and still creates sculptural works in her Whittington studio. During my visit, she was putting the finishing touches to a portrait bust (shown here).

This is an artist that has an instinctive feel for the symmetry and beauty of architecture, be it medieval or otherwise. This lends an interesting 3D aspect to her 2D work, they’re vivid, not necessarily in colour but they have their own weight.

Lesley commented: “I wanted to take a different look at the traditional beauty of the cathedral, to try to say something about the atmosphere by capturing detail in an alternative way.”

Perhaps Lesley’s childhood surrounded by the beauty of one Cathedral City, and her work in London and the ‘dreaming spires’ of Oxford has given her an ability to re-imagine and interpret the high art of centuries past into works for a modern audience.

The Emporium Gallery can be found at 32 Bird Street, Lichfield WS13 6PR www.emporium-gallery.co.uk www.lesleywestrop.com

Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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GazetteNews

Birthplace Museum hosts

Lichfield housing market on the up?

‘Johnson in the Round’ Saturday 6th July

T

he Samuel Johnson Johnson statue by Birthplace Museum will Denis Parsons be a hive of activity on Saturday 6th July. Visitors will be able to see a local sculptor at work, discover more about the work of sculptor Denis Parsons and find out about talented Lichfield craftspeople.

Local sculpture will be celebrated in ‘Johnson in the Round’, a special event where carver Allen Necchi will be demonstrating his art at the Museum throughout the day.

Allen is a wonderful local craftsman who brings wood and stone to life. He joined Lichfield restoration company Bridgemans in the 1980s, working under the guidance of skilled craftsman Denis Parsons MBE before becoming a freelance carver and sculptor.

He has undertaken carving and restorative work on many famous buildings including St Paul’s Cathedral and Windsor Castle and our own Lichfield Cathedral.

The Museum is providing a unique opportunity to see Allen at work, and to find out about the process of carving and casting and all the tools of his trade. The day will also bring the work of Denis Parsons into the spotlight, with a chance to see many examples of his work, as well as a wonderful full-length statue of Samuel Johnson created by Denis in 1989.

Visitors can also find out more about the Worshipful Company of Smiths, a group of talented Lichfield craftspeople in a display at the Museum also held on Saturday 6th July. This local Guild which dates back to the twelfth century has members with skills ranging from sculpture to cake decorating. The event is taking place from 10.30am – 4.30pm, and visitors can dropin at any time.

The theme of sculpture continues throughout the summer with ‘Blockheads and Beggars: the Story of Johnson’s Head, a display exploring Johnson in sculpture from the 19th century to present day, with runs until September 29th.

Entry to the Museum and display day is free of charge, although donations are always appreciated. Summer opening hours are 10.30am – 4.30pm. For more information visit www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk, call 01543 264972 or pop into the Bookshop and reception on the corner of the Market Square.

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B

ucking the recent national trend for a sluggish property market, the final four apartments at Pegasus Court in Lichfield have recently been reserved in almost as many days.

The apartments at Pegasus Court are for the over- 60’s and have attracted people from far and wide. Commenting on these four sales, Karen Roake, Pegasus sales and marketing director said: “Pegasus Court has been extremely popular as it is in the centre of the town and has a superb atmosphere. The owners here are a very friendly and sociable group and they make all the new owners very welcome.”

A great day at the races!

Pictured above are the winners of our competition in conjunction with Uttoxeter Racecourse last month at the Ladies Day event. From left Emma Swinson racecouse Marketing Manager with winners Denise Edwards and Mandy Edwards.

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Lichfield school PTA receives £800 funding

A

Bromford boss

receives Queen’s Birthday Honour

O

The funding was raised for St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School’s PTA by people registering to support them on www.easyfundraising.org.uk and shopping online through the site.

Funds are raised in a very simple way. When supporters register to help a good cause and whenever they shop through the site with any of the 2,700 retailers listed on easyfundraising.org.uk, the retailer gives a small percentage of what’s been spent back to the good cause to say thank you for shopping with them.

Chair of the school’s PTA Eileen Dorrian commented: “It helps raise money at no cost to us, we just make our purchase online as we normally do and easyfundraising do the rest.”

Many high street names are now involved including Amazon, John Lewis, eBay and Tesco giving causes and supporters an opportunity to raise funds.

n 14th June Bromford Chief Executive, Mick Kent was awarded an OBE from the Queen for services to housing, as part of the Birthday Honours List.Mick said he was; “blown away” by the Honour and wanted to emphasise that it’s: “A reflection of the fantastic work Bromford colleagues do dayMick Kent in-day-out, inspiring customers to be their best. So many colleagues go the extra mile to make this happen, this award is for them." He added: “As a leader my role is to help create the right environment, a great place to work and a place where people can give their best. That’s what I’ve tried to do since the day I arrived here with the help and support of some great colleagues along the way."

Chief Executive at Bromford since 1984, Mick has seen huge growth and change in the Midlands-based social business under his leadership. From around 1000 homes and 27 colleagues in the 80’s to over 27,000 homes and 1,250 colleagues today, Bromford now offers a myriad of services that enable people to live life to the fullest.

Mick Kent’s OBE award couldn’t be better timed as Bromford celebrates its 50th year in business. He is expected to collect the award from the Palace later in the year.

Bromford Living manages homes for rent and housing services for Bromford customers. They manage and maintain around 27,000 properties across central England and services are delivered from neighbourhood offices in Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Lichfield and Cirencester.

Rare birds arrive at Lichfield Auction House

First baby deer born at Swinfen Hall Hotel

Lichfield school parent and teacher association (PTA) has received more than £800, part of a total of £5 million generated by one of the UK’s largest good cause shopping websites.

T

he French term ‘pate de verre’ (or ‘glass paste’) is a glassmaking technique that involves coloured glass powder mixed with a liquid to form a paste which is then packed into a re-usable mould and fired to the desired temperature where the glass fuses together to make the desired object. The technique was ideally suited to high end objects in the Art Nouveau period of the 1900’s and the Art Deco period of the 1920’s. Almeric Walter (French, 1870-1959) was one of the foremost French masters of the pate de verre technique.

Two little glass birds made by this technique, and a rare example of Walter’s pate de verre production from the mid 1920’s were discovered at a recent antique/collectables valuation day at Richard Winterton Auctioneers. They are being offered in a Fine Art Auction in September.

Similar examples have been known to fetch thousands of pounds at auction.

Free valuations of all antiques and collectables are held at The Lichfield City Centre Salerooms every weekday from 10am to 1pm. For further details visit www.richardwinterton.co.uk Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

S

winfen Hall Hotel is celebrating the birth of its first baby deer of the season, with many more expected over the coming weeks.

New calves are notoriously difficult to spot when they are first born as the Hinds hide their babies in the long summer grass, only returning to them to feed them. They do this so they don’t alert predators to them and after a few weeks, the calves join the rest of the herd.

Scott Gardner, Head Groundsman commented: “Usually the first baby is born by the end of May however like the weather, everything seems to be running late this year! We are expecting a total of around 20 new calves and most will be born during the next month.”

The herd of 80-strong Sika deer at Swinfen Hall Hotel live in 45 acres of fields and woodland, dedicated to them on the 100 acre estate and are left to live as natural an existence as possible. They are fed home grown hay, excess produce from the walled garden and silage from the fields in winter.

For more information about Swinfen Hall visit www.swinfenhallhotel.co.uk

Do you suffer from ringing in the ears (Tinnitus)?

There may be help!

This letter is from a satisfied customer who has experienced what the Lichfield Hearing Centre has to offer and benefited from the experience and knowledge of hearing aid consultants Tony Vaughan (RHAD FSHAA) and Frances Brown (RHAD FSHHA).

Dear Mrs Mayger, Re: my husband’s hearing aid, which Hidden Hearing supplied.

We feel we must write to say how delighted we are with the results. The hearing tests were carried out, by Mr A Vaughan, with great perfection, and the final fitting carried out in a very professional manner

by Frances.

I have introduced a friend to Hidden Hearing, A Mrs D Norris who has had her test with Mr A Vaughan, and she she has gone on to buy two aids from you.

My husband has suffered tinnitus for many years, but since getting the aid, has had no reoccurrence of it at all.

Thank you all for your help and particularly the staff at your Lichfield branch for making it all such a very pleasant experience. I shall go on recommending you to all my senior citizens groups.

Yours sincerely T J G Page 13

GazetteHeritage

Lichfield’s Victoria Hospital

Victoria Hospital Plaque location

80 years after the original opening, this much-loved hospital is gone but not forgotten.

Article by Kate Gomez of lichfieldlore.com All photographs copyright of Lichfield Heritage Centre

E

ighty years ago, the Earl of Harrowby, using a silver key presented by the architect Thomas Aloysius Pole, officially opened the doors to Lichfield’s new Victoria Hospital. As the City band played in the grounds, afternoon tea was served in a marquee and the public were invited inside to have a look around the building that they would come to know as the ‘Vic’.

Described as a ‘London hospital in Lichfield’, the Victoria was built and equipped by local firms. The main building work was undertaken by contractor JR Deacon of Lombard St and whether it was concrete (Walter Tipper), X-Ray apparatus (The Lichfield Corporation Electricity Supply Department) or cleaning and domestic utensils (Smith & Parker of Bore St) that firms had supplied, all were proud of their involvement and keen to publicise their association with the new hospital. By the time the thirty four bed hospital opened on 24th June 1933, £15,641 of the total cost of £25,682 had been raised. In his speech, the Earl of Harrowby made light-hearted suggestions as to how the remainder of the money could be raised, quoting the example of the town of Sidmouth, where a local cricket club had raised money for their hospital by imposing a fine of one penny on all catches missed by fielders!

Work on the hospital had begun in the previous year, rather fittingly on Queen Victoria’s birthday, a date known as Empire Day. Although there had been plans to build the hospital on the Birmingham Road, opposite

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Ivanhoe Road, the site finally chosen was the ‘glorious sweep of the Friary estate’, and it was here, amidst much pomp and ceremony, that a large crowd gathered to witness the laying of the foundation stone. Made out of Portland stone, it featured the city arms and those of the Swinfen-Broun family and contained copies of the Lichfield Mercury, together with other papers and coins of the time. Although the inscription read, ‘This foundation stone was laid by Mrs Swinfen Broun of Swinfen Hall, Lichfield, on Empire Day 1932’, it was in fact Colonel Swinfen Broun who carried out the honour on the day, as his wife was unable to attend due to illness. Sadly, Laura Swinfen Broun died later that year, and did not live to see the opening of the hospital, which she and her husband had supported so generously.

Maternity Unit

The second world war brought about changes at the hospital - sandbags appeared, as did shutters at the windows. Extra beds cluttered the corridors and wards, as the hospital’s capacity was increased to ninety-five patients, following its designation as a casualty clearing station. Plans for a maternity wing were adapted to include an air-raid shelter in the basement. This new block was opened in May 1941 by Mrs Stuart Shaw who wished all mothers who entered there ‘great peace, joy and happiness with their babies’. The contractor was once again, JR Deacon, whose employees contributed over £100 towards the cost of the maternity unit.

Changes of a more administrative nature

came in April 1948, when the National Health Service Act came into effect. Ten years later a day room was opened by the Countess of Shrewsbury. This new addition to the hospital had been funded in part by subscribers purchasing bricks at £1 each. A renal unit was added in 1978.

In October 2001, it was decided that the Vic would close, and that its services be transferred to a new community hospital on the site of the old St Michael’s Hospital on Trent Valley Rd. The doors that had been opened with a silver key some seventy years prior were closed for the last time in January 2007.

The site was acquired by a property developer and it was hoped that at least some of the Neo-Georgian style building could be saved.

Unfortunately, English Heritage considered the architecture of the Vic to be ‘extremely plain and perfunctory’ and ‘not handled with any particular flair or imagination’ and rejected appeals for listed building status to be granted. This decision meant that the new owner of the site was free to demolish the hospital in its entirety, and in August 2007, the building was torn down, eventually to be replaced with a new housing estate known as ‘Victoria Place’. However, thanks to the efforts of local campaigners, the foundation stone was saved and installed on Mary Slater Road, at the entrance to the new estate Mary Slater of Haywood House on Bore Street was one of the hospital’s original benefactors. During her life she supported the city’s poor and needy, and on her death, left her estate to the Lichfield Nursing Association. This provided not only an annual income of £200 but also allowed the association to open a small nursing home on Sandford St, where the sick poor, living within a two mile radius of the cathedral, could be cared for. Opening in July

ction e l l o eC Victoria Hospital Plaque close up

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GazetteHeritage 1899, financial support came from what remained of Lichfield’s fund for Queen Victoria’s jubilee celebrations, public donations and subscriptions.

Ten years later the adjoining house was also left to the organisation by George Martin of Sandyway, allowing facilities at the nursing home, renamed as the Lichfield Victoria Nursing Home and Cottage Hospital, to be extended and improved.

This original hospital building on Sandford Steet still stands and is a Grade II listed property. English Heritage may not have considered its successor a special enough place to save, but it will always have a special place in the memories of the people of Lichfield.

Sources: Lichfield Mercury Archive This Won’t Hurt: A History of the Hospitals of Lichfield by Mary Hutchinson, Ingrid Croot and Anna Sadowski

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Victoria Hospital chair

Dr Roland Johnson

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Col Michael Swinfen Broun, laying foundation stone

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ction e l l o C age t i r e H

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on llecti o C ge

Dr Stewart Shaw

tion

Friary Road

The Lichfield Heritage Collection holds 12,000 items, photographs old and new, maps, books, documents etc. all relating to Lichfield past and present - copies of which can be purchased.

The Heritage Collection is housed in the Lichfield Heritage Centre, St Mary’s Church, Market Square, Lichfield, Tel: 01543 256 611.

The collection is free to view, opening times Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.00am to 12.30pm.

If you have any photographs etc. relating to Lichfield, the Heritage Collection would be very grateful to receive these items for everyone to enjoy seeing them.

Come and see our wonderful collection.

Old Victoria nursing home

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All photographs copyright of Lichfield Heritage Centre

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GazetteNews

• A report into a proposed cut of £1.7 million in the Lichfield District Council authority budget may see users of Shopmobility services have to pay a £5 registration fee and a further £1 usage fee. As part of the Council’s ‘Fit for the Future Review’, it is hoped these measures might raise £3,000 per year.

• Levi the monkey is up to his old tricks in the window of Friary Shoes. Levi, the performing money has keep Lichfieldians old and young entertained for over 20 years by swinging up and over his parallel bar, but was due for decommissioning when his internal motor broke.

Happily, a Facebook campaign and petition has led to Levi being mended and back on display as sprightly as ever!

City People Keeping an important history - Dani Pritchard, Curator of the Staffordshire Regiment Museum.

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

Dani Pritchard

D Levi the swinging monkey is back

My Word

Call yourself a logophile?

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

Q. What is a vespiary?

A. A wasp nest.

B. A scooter shop.

C. A kind of sun hat.

The answer is A. A vespiary is a wasp nest.

Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

ani Pritchard was born near Portsmouth and lives with her husband and son in Tamworth. Although she’s not a Staffordshire lass, she is a self confessed fan of the county with a deep interest in all things military history.

After taking a degree in medieval and modern history at Birmingham University, Dani went in a completely different direction by joining Tesco’s management training scheme before managing a Tesco store in Birmingham for 2 years. Despite the successful career this offered, Dani’s first love was still history, and so she enrolled in a postgraduate course in museum management studies at Nottingham Trent University (after marrying her husband, and having their son, Alfie).

For six months, Dani volunteered at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum that was then under the curatorship of Mrs Sarah Elsom, current curator of the fascinating Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum and High Sheriff of Staffordshire in 2012. When Sarah’s curatorship at the museum ended, Dani was appointed curator of the collections.

Dani commented: “I’m truly fascinated by military history, which probably all stems from a school trip to the Normandy Landing Beaches. I remember we were taken to a point where British and American troops would have had to jump off ship and run up the beach towards a German position. The heroism of what we ask our soldiers to do every day is truly remarkable. I want to make sure that soldier’s stories are heard.”

More information on the Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com

Lichfield Gazette Photography Courses Learn to master your camera from the area's leading professional photographer.

Robert Yardley, one of the Midlands most experienced full time professional photographers, has created three courses for people who may be struggling to get to grips with their digital SLR camera.

Robert has over 25 years of professional experience in many aspects of photography, specialising in Wedding and press photography, including ten years freelancing for Central Independant Newspapers.

Commercial clients include Staffordshire County Council, Lichfield District and Lichfield City Council. Robert is also often called upon to cover Royal visits and special events in the Miidlands and beyond.

These one day courses are ideal for the beginner, or for those with a basic knowledge of photography who have a digital camera, and are always using it on the auto setting.

You will learn the meaning of the different settings on your camera, and when to use them. By the end of the day your knowledge of photography will be greatly improved, and your new found confidence means you can go to any situation knowing how to get the best out of your camera. Each topic is explained and presented in an easy to understand way, with hints and tips gained over many years.

All workshops cost ÂŁ75.00 and take place at the George Hotel from 10 am - 5pm, and include tea, coffee and a light lunch. There will be no more than 12 delegates on each course, so there is plenty of chance to ask questions. Course handouts are provided with details of the topics covered during the day.

Beginners - level 1 - camera settings - 7th July This course explains about the settings on your camera and how to use them to get the best shots. This covers shutter speeds, apertures, ISO settings, exposure metering, flash, white balance and exposure compensation. A slideshow presentation will be used to demonstrate and explain each topic. We cover the different mode buttons, and explain what they mean so you understand what settings to use to get the best shots. We also cover the right way to use flash, and tricks of the trade to get the best results.

The course will demistify the technical sounding phrases, and translate them into everyday language which is easily understood. At the end of the course you will be confident in knowing not only what the different settings mean, but when to use them.

Beginners - level 2 - Take better photographs - 14th July This course builds on the first course and includes practical work where we will be out taking photographs, as well as classroom instruction, with slideshow demonstrations. It aims to help with understanding and using light, composition, using the right camera settings and the right way to use flash.

We will spend the morning learning about lenses, using the histogram to fine tune and imporove exposures, learning about the best way to use flash, including fill in flash outdoors, and ensuring you understand the different camera settings. Raw and jpeg are also explained.

After lunch we will be outdoors taking photographs, with real people available to photograph. There are demonstrations on using available light and reflectors, posing and interacting with your subject, and composition.

Intermediate - level 3 - An introduction to RAW processing and Photoshop 4th August This course is classroom based, and explains what RAW is and how to process RAW images. The course also includes getting to know Photoshop, with demonstrations using the main tools in Photoshop, and shortcuts to getting the results you want.

We look at the different software available to process your RAW files and produce stunning images, with examples of how it all works. The other part of this course is an introduction to Photoshop. We show you round the main screen, and explain how to use the main tools. We also demonstrate some of the most useful ways of using Photoshop, including 'opening eyes', retouching and more.

If you would like to book yourself onto one of the workshops, you can book online on the website www.ryphotography.com/workshops or give Robert a call on 01543 256083. Take a look at the website www.ryphotography.com for more details. More dates will become available and posted on the website.

Page 17

GazetteNews

Lichfield Ladies

present cheque to charity

L

ichfield Ladies Circle had the pleasure of presenting Sarah Hughes and her son Lewis, a cheque for £500 for their local branch of the ERB’s Palsy Group. ERB’s palsy is a condition which mainly occurs in children due to trauma during birth.

It can affect 1 or all of the 5 primary nerves that supply movement and feeling to the arm causing partial or complete paralysis of the limb and although in some cases the babies recover on their own some may require specialist intervention. The ERB’s palsy group was established by Debbie Clark in 1991 and has grown steadily to support over 1,600 families throughout the UK. Sarah Clark, a member of Lichfield Ladies Circle attended the cheque presentation with her daughter Jess, who also suffers from ERB’s Palsy, and proposed that the charity be considered for a donation. Jess and Lewis took the opportunity to discuss how they are coping with the condition day to day and it is clear that neither of them have let it stop them from achieving. Lewis is studying engineering and plays both the drums and guitar whilst Jess is heading towards her Duke of Edinburgh Silver award.

Lichfield Ladies Circle is a friendly group of women aged between 18 and 45 who want to have fun, socialise, make new friendships and fundraise.

They meet twice monthly, usually on a Tuesday evening for nights out, to try out new activities and in the process raise money for local charities. To find out more about Lichfield Ladies Circle please visit www.lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk or contact 0800 148 8595, info@lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk

......and a further £500 to South Staffordshire CRUSE Breavement Care In addition, in June the Lichfield Ladies Circle had the pleasure of donating £500 to Fiona Gillespie and Pauline Hinsley on behalf of the South Staffordshire branch of CRUSE Bereavement Care. The charity offers support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies, through face-to-face, telephone, email and website support. Alongside local services, there is a national helpline, a website and a free-phone help-line specifically for children and young people. The confidential and free service provided by the South Staffordshire branch is due to 49 trained volunteers who in 2012 supported 125 clients.

Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

O

Clear Futures Hypnotherapy Quit Smoking Workshop

n Saturday 13th July between 9.30am and 12.30pm Clear Futures Hypnotherapy will be hosting a new approach to quiting smoking during a three hour workshop that uses Hypnotherapy and NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) to be held at Lichfield Guildhall.

The course delivers an enjoyable welcome to hypnosis as well as aiming to provide the skills and motivation to really give up smoking for good.

Places on the course usually cost £75, but as this is the first time that course director Ian Gilbert has run the workshop in Lichfield the price for this session only is £50 per delegate.

In addition, Lichfield Gazette readers will receive a further 20% discount by mentioning the Gazette at the time of booking.

For more information or to book a place contact Ian Gilbert on 077804 35054 or email ian@clearfutureshypnotherapy.

Visitwww.clearfutureshypnotherapy.co.uk for more information and a FREE sleep hypnosis download.

Competition The Lichfield Gazette has one place on the Clear Futures Hypnotherapy Stop Smoking workshop to be won.

To be in with a chance simply answer the following question.

Q. Where is the workshop taking place?

A. B. C.

The Guildhall, Lichfield.

The NEC Symphony Hall

Just send your name, answer and contact details to Lichfield Gazette Stop Smoking Competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or to gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of Tuesday 9th July. The winner will be notified by Wednesday 10th July. One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified.

Page 19

GazetteNews

Lichfield Ladies Circle

I

National Fundraising Award

n May, Lichfield Ladies Circle were delighted to be awarded a trophy for achieving ‘the most amount of money raised for charity' at their national conference in Harrogate. In total over £15000 was raised though events such as a masquerade ball, making and selling Christmas wreaths, organising a gruelling charity challenge day and completing a skydive. Donations have been made to the ERBS Palsy Society, CRUSE, the Alzeihmer Society, The Stroke Club, Saxon Hill School, The Teenage Cancer Trust, Ward 15 at Birmingham Childrens’ Hospital and Cancer Research UK. Susan Davies, Lichfield Ladies Circle Chair said that she was delighted with the award and recognition at a national level: “The last 12 months have been fantastic, all the ladies have put a huge amount of effort into their fundraising activities and are delighted to be supporting such wonderful causes.”

Lichfield Ladies Circle are now focused on coming up with more ideas with which to raise money for further local charities whilst having fun at the same time.

For further information contact 0800 148 8595 or info@lichfieldladiescircle.co.uk.

Cllr Stanhope awarded MBE C

llr Margaret Stanhope has been awarded an MBE after appearing in the Queens Honours List.

Cllr Mike Wilcox, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said: “I am delighted that Margaret Stanhope is to receive the MBE for services to local government, communities and the public sector.

Cllr Margaret Stanhope MBE "It is a well deserved honour as Margaret has dedicated years of service to Lichfield District and is our longest serving councillor, having been elected to the then Lichfield Rural Council in 1970.

“In that time she has been Chairman of the Council, chaired the Planning Committee and the Standards Committee, and has been Cabinet Member for Development as well as Cabinet Member for Democratic and Legal Services.

“Margaret is so committed to her role as a district councillor and is an excellent role model for public servants to follow, and on behalf of the whole council, I would like to congratulate Margaret on being awarded an MBE.” Image www.lichfielddc.gov

Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Inspired Accountants announces four new starters

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ichfield and Leicester accountancy practice, Inspired Accountants, has bolstered its ranks with the addition of four new members of staff.

Claire Wright has joined the practice as Senior Accountant, Michelle Trickey as Accounts Clerk & Credit Controller, Caroline West as Practice Administrator and Piara Singh as Book-keeper.

Claire is a qualified ACCA and MAAT accountant and brings with her 15 years of accounting experience. Michelle joins Inspired Accountants from a finance consultancy company, but before working as a book-keeper Michelle worked in Hospitality for 10 years. Caroline is originally from Lichfield and has worked in the City for 25 years, predominantly in payroll, office administration and reception. Piara Singh has a degree in actuarial mathematics and statistics, has recently completed the Institute Of Certified Book-keepers’ course and is currently studying for the AAT Accounting Qualification.

Claire Wright, Caroline West, Paul Bulzacchelli, Piara Singh, Michelle Trickey.

Competition winners Summer Skin Competition Congratulations to Claire Morris of Berkeley Way, Longdon, winner of the Boots the Chemist and House of Minster Summer Sun competition.

Dam Street Competition We had the best ever response yet to our Spot the Difference in the Dam Street Competition. Thank you to the hundreds of people who entered but there can only be one winner. Congratulations to Ms N Matthews from Beech Gardens, Lichfield who managed to spot all 20 differences and wins £50 to spend at any of the shops featured in Dam Street in the June magazine.

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Buy Local week great success

uring Buy Local week (3-9th June) recently supported by thebestoflichfield over 300 people in Lichfield 'pledged' their support for local independent businesses. Everyone who showed their support was entered into a national daily draw to win a £100 voucher to spend with a local 'bestof' business.

Frankie Chapman from Burntwood was one of the lucky winners and chose to spend her voucher at The Kitchen Shop in Market Street.

Louie Clegg from thebestoflichfield said: "The Buy Local campaign was really well received here in Lichfield and we hope to encourage more people to support their local independent businesses!"

Pictured is Megan Naish (The Kitchen Shop) Frankie Chapman (Winner) Lizzy Braine (The Kitchen Shop).

Lichfield Grow & Sell Scheme

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ecently Mr Michael Fabricant MP met staff and pupils from Scotch Orchard and Saxon Hill schools in Lichfield (just two of the 4 schools participating) at Waitrose, Darwin Park, Lichfield to launch their national ‘Grow and Sell’ initiative. Seed kits and compost were presented to four of our local primary schools to encourage 7 to 11 year olds to grow their own produce and then sell it to Waitrose customers to raise funds for their schools.

Michael commented: “Even in a rural area like Lichfield, too many children don’t really understand from where their food originates. So these ‘Grow and Sell’ seed kits will help children understand better the origins of nutritious and tasty food. This is an excellent initiative and I was pleased to meet children and teachers from Saxon Hill School and Scotch Orchard School in Lichfield and the staff at Waitrose in Lichfield who are helping them with this exciting project.

“The initiative, in association with the Waitrose farm on the Leckford Estate in Hampshire, aims to inspire more than 100,000 children across the UK to grow their own produce during the summer months. The children will learn more about where food comes from, the impact of seasons, and develop entrepreneurial skills. The kit has been specially designed to get school vegetable patches up and running, and includes seeds, equipment and step-by-step growing instructions.”

Schools will also be able to receive additional ‘Grow and Sell Seed Kits’ through Waitroses’ in-store Community Matters Scheme, where customers can support their local schools, and other good causes, by dropping a green token into the Community Matters box.

Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Look good and feel good with golf Golf is one of the healthiest sports you can play. Its powerful combination of stress-busting exercise, fresh air and camaradie can help promote long term heart and cardiovascular health especially if combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Not many people realise that the moderate walking exercise you achieve with golf is as good as a run for cutting the risk of heart disease, according to new research from the US National

Like us on

Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

A regular round of golf can reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and raised cholesterol. Another study from the American Heart Association shows walking round the golf course regularly will significantly reduce your risk of a stroke.

Playing a round of golf could also be better for you than a quick, intense workout, according to new

Facebook.com/getintogolf and Follow us on

research from Maastricht University. Scientists found that doing moderate activity for longer can reduce unhealthy blood fats and insulin more effectively than a fast, furious gym session.

Golf encourages you to walk but it’s so engaging and social that you hardly notice you are doing vital exercise. You can walk as far as four miles during an average round of golf and burn up to 900 calories!

The Get into Golf campaign, supported by Sport England and funded by the National Lottery, is now making the game more affordable and welcoming than ever before.

Twitter@getintogolf

Page 23

GazetteNews

Official Opening

Line-up a Hot Summer Saturday Date at

Trentham this year!

of Lichfield Care Home Mayor of Lichfield Cllr Robert Awty officially opened the Darwin Court Care Centre in Wissage Road on Thursday 13 June. The centre is a recent addition to the Restful Homes portfolio. Darwin Court is registered for up to 112 people and split into selfcontained units that include sensory rooms. Darwin Court Care Centre also has landscaped gardens and a team skilled and experienced in residential and nursing needs that allows them to care for adults with dementia and other specialist conditions.

The landscaped gardens at Darwin Court Care Centre. Photo by Robert Yardley

The centre is officially opened by Cllr Robert Awty - Mayor of Lichfield: Image also shows Terry Finn (Leader of Lichfield City Council) Ann Thomas and Tom Cawley (Managing Director), Sarah Diamond (Operations Manager), Rosie Howell (Home Manager) and Mrs Eileen Awty. Photo by Robert Yardley

The Trentham Estate’s award-winning Hot Summer Saturday Dates will be back with a bang this year, bringing with them everything from a little bit of Les Mis to a whole lot of Brit Pop - for another season of outdoor entertainment, guaranteed to get the audiences either singing along, or strutting their stuff.

Bringing some ‘Madness’ to the gardens for the opening show in the open-air amphitheatre on July 6th, local band The Rudeboys will perform a ‘Specials’ evening of ska, two tone and tunes from The Jam. The line-up for the following Saturday (July 13th) will focus entirely on the chance to “Spice Up Your Life” in a girl-band tribute to The Spice Girls and Girls Aloud.

If that doesn’t get the audience out of their picnic seats and deckchairs, and on to their feet, then the next date on the event calendar, July 20th, definitely will - as 50’s Rock’n’Roll sights and sounds fill the night air during ‘The Twist Show’, when the stage will be magically transformed into an American diner.

Brit Pop and Big Bands will then create a ‘Wonderwall’ of sound on Saturday July 27th and August 3rd respectively - as The Counterfeit Beatles show why they were ‘Definitely Maybe’ inspirational to Oasis, and (later) a seven-piece Bootleg Jools Holland Orchestra get audiences swinging and jiving.

There will be more than one ‘Bed of Roses’ in the famous Trentham Gardens on Saturday August 10th when another local band, The Bon Jovi Experience take to the stage.

The ever-popular ‘Night at the Musicals’ on August 17th will take visitors on another emotional journey through the most popular hits from some of the best loved musicals of all-time, including Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Joseph, Grease, and Chicago.

To round it all off on Saturday, August 24th, visitors are being given the opportunity to dig out their platforms, strut their funky stuff, and then “Blame it on the Boogie” during a Disco Night Inferno.

Concert tickets allow access to the Gardens, Lake and Adventure Play all day; and while the Italian Garden Tearoom will open until late a bar and Pieminister stall will also be available adjacent to the Amphitheatre - although visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic for the ultimate British summer day out. (It is also possible to bring your own gazebo by pre-booking a pitch for just £25, but spaces are limited, and pre-booking is essential).

Advance tickets cost £13 adults, £11 concessions/children and on the day prices are £16 adults, £14 concessions/children. Bring 12 or more friends and get discounted tickets; and Annual Ticket Holders also benefit from a 50% discount on advance tickets.

For a taste of what’s on offer, take a look at http://www.trentham.co.uk/whatson/live-music. Full details of all the events can be found at www.trentham.co.uk Trentham Gardens can be found at The Trentham Estate, Stone Road, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent. ST4 8AX

Competition!

We’ve teamed up with Trentham Gardens to offer one lucky reader two tickets to the ‘Night at the Musicals’ event in Saturday August 17th. The winner will not only enjoy a magical night of music in this beautiful spot, but the prize also includes two free drinks and two Pieminster pies to get the evening rolling!

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

Q. Trentham Gardens are in....

A. Stoke-on-Trent B. Burton-on-Trent C. Sutton Coldfield.

Celebrations on the day - Marjorie Cowder and Paul Pinto. Photo by Robert Yardley Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning just send your name, answer and contact details to Lichfield Gazette Trentham competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified.

Winner will be notified by Saturday 10th August.

Page 25

Page 26 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Relax and Enjoy a Special Retreat at Netherstowe House

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rom its exquisite afternoon tea through to its steakhouse brasserie, Netherstowe House makes every visitor experience a very unique occasion. Now, enjoying an overnight break at the award-winning hotel and restaurant is easier and even more affordable with the dinner, bed and breakfast special offer.

At a new fixed rate, this overnight package means you don't need a particular reason to indulge in the highest quality food and excellent service that sees every guest treated as a VIP. Starting at just £170 per room, the offer includes sumptuous evening dinner, fresh and filling English breakfast and charming double accommodation in one of Netherstowe House's individually designed boutique bedrooms.

These breaks would also make the ideal gift for family or friends who deserve a relaxing treat in the tranquil surroundings of this period mansion house. The offer is available Monday to Saturday and excludes Sunday dinner but is available for Sunday lunch.

Just over a mile from the city centre, Netherstowe House is a small, family owned and operated hotel that strives to be the best, with a friendly, personal touch.

The family and team are very proud to have been voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards and remains the only establishment in Staffordshire to be recommended by The Good Hotel Guide.

Isn’t it time you shared Lichfield’s best kept secret?

For more information about its accommodation and range of dining experiences, call one of the friendly Netherstowe House Hospitality team on 01543 254270 or visit www.netherstowehouse.com

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Page 27

Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Karting Day Raises over £700 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity

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n Saturday 8th June teams from all over Staffordshire and the West Midlands converged on Midland Karting, Lichfield, to take part in a Charity Endurance Race to raise funds for Midlands Air Ambulance.

Teams arrived at 10.30am and competed for 2.5 hours, entertaining the crowd of spectators with lots of exciting racing moments.

The sun shone for the entire event and there were no injuries to report apart from two blisters caused by zealous gripping of the steering wheel!

Spectators and competitors enjoyed burgers and snacks and bid generously in the charity silent auction that also took place on the day.

Thanks are due to Frankie and Benny’s (Lichfield) who donated a three course meal for four, Burton Albion FC who donated a stadium tour, Ivisons the Lichfield Florist who donated a spectacular bouquet and Umbrella PR & Media who donated a solid silver ladies bracelet – all of which were auctioned to raise further funds.

Midland Karting are delighted to announce that the event raised a current total of over £700, with further donations still coming in.

Monies will go directly to the Staffordshire crews of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

First place in the Charity Endurance Race went to team 5, second place was taken by team 1 and third place team 6.

Winners celebrated with bubbly on the champion’s podium as they were presented with their trophies by Jo Bailey – Fundraising Manager, Staffordshire, for Midlands Air Ambulance.

C

Pink Fairies Galore!

ongratulations to all who took part in the 2013 Solstice Walk, part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of St Giles Hospice. The walk was hoping to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of fancy-dress fairies in one place....and unofficial word at the time of going to press is that the record has been smashed!

Taking place from 10pm on Sunday Saturday 22nd June and covering two 4.5 mile circuits through Lichfield, the evening was clear but cool so well done to all of the women who braved our less than balmy summer to raise funds for this truly worthwhile cause. We’re proud of you.

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Whatever vacancy you are looking to fill, if it is Staffordshire or the West Midlands then Forbes Recruitment are the company you need to talk to.

We are staffed by recruitment experts with years of experience of matching the right recruit with their perfect vacancy, so if you want us to take the lead and arrange your recruitment from start to finish then you will be in safe hands.

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PLEASE CONTACT US NOW TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS New Minster House, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel 01543 439475. (next to Ego Restaurant) www.forbesrecruitment.com Page 29

GazetteFeature

120 years of baking…Is that During the last 120 years, the Hindleys bakery story has gone full circle, with today’s generation taking the business back to its original roots. They are using traditional baking techniques combined with family values to create a vibrant & individual bakery in the centre of historic Lichfield.

In 1893, Joseph Hindley took over a small bakery business at Upper Brook Street, Rugeley, paying £10 for goodwill, £21 for utensils and £14 for stock. On 6th April he dutifully recorded his first days takings as £1 8s 6d.

Joseph married and had three daughters and one son. As was usual in those days, it was his son Gilbert who took over the business in 1928, after the death of his father. Gilbert trained at the National Bakery School in London and it was during this period of Hindleys’ history that they earned a reputation for producing quality confectionery. At the 1925 Bakery Exhibition in London,

Gilbert took first prize in the wedding cake, decorated genoese & decorated cake competitions and won a gold medal at the National Association Challenge Trophy.

On the back of these successes, in 1932 he opened a shop in Walsall & another in Lichfield. To cope with the increased trade from his new shops & bakery rounds, in 1938 he bought his second oven. Between 1954 & 1960 a further 4 shops were opened. Gilbert’s sons Graham & Keith joined their father about this time and together in 1961 they moved the business into a new purpose built bakery at Wharf Road, Rugeley.

Graham’s son Duncan joined the business in 1990.

The business continued to expanded to its maximum size when it employed 230 people across 18 shops.

However, times were a-changing with the traditional high street vanishing. As people began shopping differently, Duncan decided it was time for Hindleys Bakery to change direction too, and in 2002 Duncan’s sister Jackie Beaumont joined Duncan to restructure Hindleys into what you see today.

The connection with Lichfield was further strengthened when Graham Hindley married into the Garratt family who owned Garratt’s bakery & shop in Market Street (where City Arcade stands today) until 1963.

Hindley's Shop and cafe

Garratts Cafe` sometime before 1952

Joseph Richard Hindley outside shop in Upper Brook Street, Rugeley c.1896 Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Hindley's in Bore Street around 1965

GazetteFeature

not something to celebrate?

In 2012 Hindleys were selected to represent Staffordshire in ITV1’s Best British Bakery competition. “It was the most fantastic experience, we would not have missed it for the world” says Duncan. They went on to win the West Midlands heat against three other bakeries, going through to the regional final when they unfortunately came up against the eventual winners.

Special cakes for famous people.

Over the years Hindleys have made some very special cakes. The most noteable being Dr Johnson’s 300th Birthday cake. Marston Brewery also came to them when they were celebrating their 150 birthday.

Fancy a cuppa?

Pictured above directors Duncan Hindley and Jackie Beaumont

One of the great things about Hindleys is their café. It is situated next to the working bakery, so while you enjoy a coffee & a bite to eat you can watch the hive of activity out the back. Although be warned that there is nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread to make you more hungry.

Birthday Festivities Hindleys Today Hindleys moved to their present site in 2007, when they renovated a three storey historic building in Tamworth Street into a self contained working bakery.

Here they work with a small team of dedicated bakers, producing quality handmade bread, cakes & biscuits.

“Our bread & cakes are a unique blend of traditional recipes handed down through the generations with new taste innovations created by myself”; commented Duncan. “We have seen people’s tastes change so much over the years as they experience new food both at home and abroad.”

Where Hindleys really stands out is the fact that all the bread & cakes that you can buy in their shop are made in their bakery. “ When people talk about food miles, we can talk in metres”; says Jackie: ”So much of what you can buy in supermarkets today is labelled local produce, however it is often made in large factories elsewhere in the UK & Europe and is then delivered back to our home towns to be baked off.”

In the minds of the bakers at Hindleys, local should mean local. “When we designed the bakery we purposely designed it so our customers could see us making their bread and cakes”; commented Jackie: “It is very important to us that our customers trust in our products, therefore whether we are making a traditional tin loaf or fermenting a sourdough we want everything to look & taste terrific.”

Hindleys are very much part of the community of Lichfield and will be celebrating their 120th birthday by sponsoring the ‘Vintage Tea Party’ on Saturday 13th July in the Cathedral Close as part of the Lichfield Festival.

There will be an afternoon tea tent, vintage stalls, live entertainment & children’s activities. So why not put on your glad-rags and join all the festivities.

They are also running the “Great Lichfield Bake Off” competition where they are inviting the folk of Lichfield to show off their baking prowess.

Duncan Hindley continues a 120 year family tradition

Hindley's Bakery

Hindleys are very proud of their long history and look forward to continuing developing and providing their popular brand of rustic breads and cakes to their valued customers throughout the Lichfield area. www.hindleys-bakers.co.uk Follow us on

Hindleys Bakery

Bread making courses at Hindleys Introduction to bread making - £55 An introduction to bread making taken by Duncan Hindley, giving you the opportunity to learn basic bread making skills within an informal and friendly environment.

The course lasts 3 hours (Wed 1.00pm to 4.00pm) and is suitable for beginners. We supply all ingredients and equipment, apron, hat and afternoon tea.

Including discussion on yeast, fermentation and flour, making and kneading the dough, a brief introduction to different bread making techniques, hands on shaping practice, proving and baking. To get you started at home at the end of the course we give you some fresh yeast, flour and an instruction sheet.

Artisan Bread Making - £55 Due to popular demand we have developed this course. It’s designed for those who have completed our introduction to bread making course and for those who already have a basic understanding of bread making and wish to take it one step further. The course lasts 3 hours (Wed 1.00pm to 4.00pm). We supply all ingredients and equipment, apron, hat and afternoon tea.

Learn about sourdough starters, how bakers use starters, long and bulk fermentation techniques, working with different flours and baking artisan bread. At the end we’ll give you a small jar of our starter, flour and an instruction sheet (so you can play!)

Page 31

DON ’T MI S S!

PUB OF THE YEAR

T

THE FEATHERS IS YOUR No.1 PUB!

he Feathers Inn in the ‘Marston’s Pub of the Year Awards 2013’. This popular venue has just been named the Best Community Pub.

FEATHERS ROCKSTAGE AT FUSE 2013

The Feathers Inn offers a comfortable and inviting retreat for regulars and newcomers alike, often becoming the focal point for local events and fundraising activities for charities including Help for Heroes, and Teenage Cancer Trust. Friendly and helpful service are the driving force for the pub and ensure customers return time and time again.”

Friday 12th Back Up Plan, Ain’t No Disco & Live & Let Rock.

Saturday 13th Trip, The Impendium, Diamond Lil, The Shooters, The Ash Cooper Band, Mosquito Drive, Bekka Downes, Last Orders.

Sunday 14th Revolution, The Modest, The Quik, Monkee Finga.

After three years at the Feathers Mike and his wife Tracey have totally rebuilt and transformed the business all through their own investment and hard work. It is now a thriving, busy pub at the heart of the community. From charity events to an established live music scene, the Feathers team caters for most tastes with characteristic attention to detail at all times.

THANK YOU Thank you to the bands and all the folks who will join in this years Fuse Festival, God bless you!

DOING IT FOR CHARITY

“TEENAGE CANCER TRUST” SUNDAY 25 AUGUST

COMMUNITY PUB OF THE YEAR

This event in aid of Teenager Cancer Trust is going to be a great day of Music and fun - look out for further details.

The Feathers Inn WHAT’S ON GUIDE GREAT LIVE MUSIC IN YOUR No.1 PUB! July Fri 5 Sat 6 Fri 12 Sat 13 Fri 19 Sat 20 Fri 26 Sat 27

All Out The Band Last Orders/On Standby Last Friday of every The Modest month “Feathers Ain't No Disco Comedy Club” OTC (off The Charts) Sunny Day Blues Band To be announced The Super Incredible Flying Insex EVERY TUESDAY OPEN MIC JAM * WEDNESDAY POKER NIGHT Website : www.feathersinn.co.uk email: thefeathersinn@btconnect.com Follow on Twitter-Facebook-Myspace “feathers Inn Lichfield” 118 Beacon Street, Lichfield WS13 7BA Tel: 01543 417029

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First National Care Home Open Day great success

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n Friday 21st June Hammerwich Hall Residential & Nursing Home in Hammerwich, Burntwood, pulled out all the stops for their Royal Ascot themed Garden Party, held in conjunction with National Care Homes Open Day. Manager, Mrs Shirley Gibbs, welcomed to the home the High Sheriff of Staffordshire, Susie Lillingston, the Under Sheriff of Staffordshire, Paul Slater, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, David Leytham and Mrs Jan Leytham – Gain plus CQC Inspector of Hammerwich Hall, Kay Edwards.

Queen for the day, Mrs Nancy Rotchell (resident), was greeted by a standing ovation and dignitaries lined up to be presented one by one.

Hammerwich Hall’s 5* kitchen excelled with a buffet that would grace any royal table (the main attraction being ‘Colin’ the salmon!) and relaxing summer sounds were provided by ‘Romance in Durango’.

Formal dress was the order of the day and the ladies did not disappoint, all looking elegant and refined in their Royal Ascot style dresses and hats. To top off the day, the sun shone throughout the afternoon and guests were also given tours of the home.

VIP guests are presented to 'Queen for the day', Mrs Nancy Rotchell.

Page 35

Lichfield Soroptimist wins Award

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ichfield Soroptimist Ellie Gormley has received an award in recognition of her invaluable contribution to the STEM Ambassadors Scheme within Staffordshire, Stoke on Trent, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. Ellie’s award was presented by Major Steve Jones of 22 Signals Regiment, Signal Corp who have recently joined STEMNET as partners.

STEMNET creates opportunities to inspire young people in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). STEM Ambassadors help voluntarily in a range of activities designed to increase young people’s choice and chances in these key areas.

Ellie, who has been a STEM Ambassador for 4 years, helped at SI (Soroptimists International) Lichfield’s Skirting Science Event last year and became a member of SI in March 2013. Nine members of SI Lichfield are STEM Ambassadors and a further three will train and register this year in time for the next Skirting Science Event scheduled for 16th October.

Ellie Gormley & Major Steve Jones

Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

£100,000 Jewellery Sale Due to a shop re-fit a City centre jewellers are having their biggest ever sale.

The famous City Jewellers at 39 Market Street are presently about to see a restructuring of their shop and the watches are to be sited on the first floor. Owner Paul Shepherd explains: “In an effort to rearrange our 18th century building to maximize our showroom space we will be having all our entire jewellery collection in our ground floor showrooms and creating a watch gallery on the first floor. It is an exciting time for us and we are sure our customers will appreciate the new store layout and it will give a much more relaxed environment to browse on both levels.

City Jewellers is a family run business and home to many of the leading brands available on the high street today. There is as much as £100,000 of stock available up to half the normal retail value.

This is the time to buy a piece of jewellery or a watch whilst saving yourself a great deal of money. But hurry this sale is only on for 21 days during July.

Southwell Mott Solicitors Southwell Mott offer a full range of legal services which include conveyancing, wills and probate trusts, employment, civil and family matters.

We offer a free initial consultation and Stuart Smallman our specialist Family Solicitor offers Fixed Fees for certain family matters. For all other matters we will offer an estimate of costs at the earliest opportunity. In November we will take part in Will Aid (last year we raised nearly ÂŁ4,500.00 for charity).

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

Authorised and Regulated by SRA (75589) Page 37

GazetteNews

Staffordshire Regiment Museum receives Queens Award for Voluntary Service

C

ongratulations are in order to staff and volunteers at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, Whittington at the news that they are to receive a Queens Award for Voluntary Service.

Although they have received the citation, the award, in the form of a crystal trophy and certificate signed by the Queen will be presented to the Museum by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson over the coming weeks.

The award has been presented for; ‘Providing an exceptional service for local schools within the museum and preserving its regimental collections’. The museum is home to some fascinating military artefacts from uniforms and weapons to medals including two highly important Victoria Cross decorations. In addition, the collection contains poignant mementos of times past including 1940’s wedding dresses plus displays of kit and equipment used by serving Mercian Regiment servicepeople.

Dani Pritchard, Curator of the Staffordshire Regiment Museum commented: “We are very excited about it and

so pleased that the volunteers are getting the recognition that they deserve. We are tremendously proud of them.”

Exciting developments are afoot within the museum with the re-development of the enduringly popular trench system. This new trench should be open to the public by September (weather conditions permitting as persistent rain could interfere with building).

The new trench is just part of the commemorations planned to mark to centenary of WW1 due to begin in 2014, with the museum, Staffordshire County Council, the Great War Trail, the National Memorial Arboretum and the Prisoner of War camps at Cannock Chase making our area a fabulous place to get involved in these commemorations.

The Museum will be holding a series of events, from Kitchener Recruitment events in the town centres that were traditionally where the regiment recruited – Walsall, Burton upon Trent, Wolverhampton and Lichfield etc, to other Great War themed events and music and drama performances within the museum itself. The Museum would like to hear from any groups who would like to

Curator Dani Pritchard at the Museum come along and join in with the Kitchener Recruitment events. They are looking for Great War themed displays and activities such as Local History Group re-enactors etc. To get involved please contact your local council direct.

The Museum are also always looking for volunteers to help out at the Museum. Should you have any time free, from a couple of hours to a few days a week, please contact them on 01543 434394

Appeal for Welfare Boxes for Mercian Service Personnel.

MP for Tamworth Mr Christopher Pincher, the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, the Tamworth Herald, the Mercian Regiment HQ in Whittington and individuals and businesses in our local community are joining to appeal for items that will make up welfare boxes that are to be sent out to each soldier in Battalion 3 (Staffords) and 4 (Reservists) Mercian who will be on active service in Afghanistan from Christmas 2013.

The appeal aims to ensure that each soldier receives a box containing a selection of items including biscuits, sweets (no chocolate, it melts!), crisps, playing cards, puzzle books, toiletries and a personal handwritten note of thanks to our soldiers. Over 700 boxes must be packed to be sent out to troops from Autumn 2013, each offering a little taste of home.

Below is a list of suggested items but you can include other items that you think they might like as long as they are small and light. It is best to avoid family or bulk buy packs and go for travel sizes as that way they can fit a larger selection in each box.

See this story with a full list of items required on our website at www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk Items for the boxes can be delivered to Mr Pincher MP’s constituency office at 23 Albert Road, B79 7JS or to the Tamworth Herald Offices at Ventura Retail Park.

Boxes will be packed at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, and the museum is looking for volunteers to help put the parcels together.

For futher information contact www.tamworthsos.weebly.com or www.christopherpincher.com The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield WS14 9PY Tel: 01543 434394 ww.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com

Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 39

Peace of mind

from your local Funeral Directors Offering truly personal ‘peace of mind’ bespoke services for all creeds and religious beliefs from Green funerals to Traditional Horsedrawn including Humanist services. Taking care of monumental mason services, floral tributes, funeral payment plans and transport. Relatives are most welcome to visit the offices of J. Howell and Daughters at Netherstowe Lane where they can park outside the door, which has disability access.

Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Regal Cinema Regeneration needs an “Angel”

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By Paul Oakley - Editor

here seems to be no shortage of enthusiasm in making the regeneration of the old, and much lamented cinema in Tamworth Street a reality. Plans have been drafted for re-sculpting the front section of the Regal into a real complex of shops and cinema/conference space over three floors.

It is thought that the complex would not survive purely as a cinema and ideas are being proposed for part of the building to be turned into a space for a roller-rink, indoor bowls, and gymnasium or arts venue. Everything is in the melting pot but the project is still a long way from being reality.

But in an effort to bring the ideas to fruition, the whole project will need two vital things: The willingness of the Lichfield public to help raise funds to buy the building and freehold, and secondly; the need for an Angel – an entrepreneurial individual, or group who can come forward and help fund whilst giving the group a leader in the way a Richard Branson of Lichfield would do.

Do you know someone who would fit the bill? The Regeneration Group is looking for someone who could unlock doors to finance and whose voice could be heard as well as a focus for fund-raising. The group already has a local Quantity Surveyor and an Architect on board and are embarking on a feasibility study as well as forming a charitable trust.

A group is being formed called “Friends of the Regal” and you can show your support for what is being proposed by joining them.

Why not join in the discussion on www.Regallichfield.org or follow the link to the Facebook group. Alternatively you can email me at paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk or write to me Paul Oakley, Lichfield Gazette. PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ and I will pass your comments on.

GazetteNews

Laying up of Regimental Colours

24th June 2013

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t was an occasion of mixed pride and sadness on the 24th June as Lichfield Cathedral saw the laying up of the Regimental Colours of the 3rd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Staffords) and the 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment in the Regimental chapel.

This ticket only ceremony saw the attendance of both serving personnel, families, veterans and civic dignitaries and commenced with a Civic Procession at 1.45pm where the Lord Lieutenant, representative of HM The Queen, Mr Ian Dudson and the Colonel of the Regiment Brigadier A P Williams OBE were escorted by the Very Rev’d Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield Cathedral.

This was followed by an ecclesiastical procession that entered the cathedral under the branch standards of the Regimental Association.

During the ceremony hymns including ‘To be a pilgrim’ and ‘I vow to thee my country’ were sung.

The service was followed by a Civic Reception at the Guildhall.

New Colours were presented on the 6th June 2013 to all four battalions of The Mercian Regiment by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

NEW ADDRESS FOR FAVOURITE FLORIST

Photos by Carl Knibb.

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lower Design By Kate are delighted to announce that they have relocated into bigger and more accessible premises in the centre of Lichfield. They have made a short move within Bolt Court and now front the main car park making it ideal for Customers picking up orders.

The business is run by Kate and Lil who specialise in retail, corporate and their ever expanding and bespoke wedding and funeral services.

Lil Semple, Director, comments: "We are thrilled to have new and exciting premises which includes a private consultation room. Please do take the time to visit our new website which showcases our full range of services www.flowerdesignbykate.co.uk."

Kate Miller added: "We would like to thank all of our existing customers for their support over the years and we really look forward to welcoming you at our new premises."

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. 5 BOLT COURT, MARKET STREE, LICHFIELD. 01543 255311 WWW.flowerdesignbykate.co.uk hello@flowerdesignbykate.co.uk

Page 41

Gazette Tudor Row Feature

We Love

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE?

Tudor Row

When was the last time you had a browse around Tudor Row? Lichfield House, the picturesque black and white half-timbered residence built when Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon ruled England, now home to the Tudor of Lichfield, has watched over nearly 500 years of England's history.

Tudor Row by comparison is only 33 years old, yet you get the impression that this enchanting development of nine shops has always been there. Joining Wade Street to Bore Street, the hanging baskets in full summer bloom and the ‘twisty’ alley-way give it a charm all of its own.

There has never been a better time to visit with all shops fully occupied and bristling with quality products. Add to this the health and beauty salons, barbers and podiatrist and you have the recipe for a great little shopping complex.

Why not give it a try next time you’re in Lichfield?

Tudor Row Barbers Established 14 years

Traditional & Modern Hairdressing for men & boys • Mens - £11.50 • Boys £10.50 • O.A.P’s - £8.50

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

Tel:

01543 263351

Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

There are 12 differences in the two pictures of Lichfield House, The Tudor of Lichfield - spot just 10 of them and you could be in with a chance of winning £50 to spend in any one of the splendid shops and salons in Tudor Row Rules: Ring the changes, remember to get at least 10, cut out and send the whole coupon in no later than Monday 15th July. Enter your name and address and send it in an envelope to: Lichfield Gazette (Tudor Row Street Comp), P O Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Editors decision is final. No cash equivilent.

Name Address Postcode Good luck!

Gazette Tudor Row Feature

Secret Garden One of Lichfield’s premier florists offer flowers for all occasions including bespoke wedding designs.

Additions of Lichfield Selling a wide range of quality accessories and gifts for men and women at 12 Tudor Row.

Tudor Row Barbers Have been established for 14 years and offer expert traditional and modern hairdressing for men and boys.

Lichfield Bags 4 U Fashion handbags, purses, scarves and you can get 20% discount if you take in the voucher from their advertisement here.

Erase – UK Hair today gone forever with their unisex solution to unwanted hair. Book your free patch test.

Page 43

Gazette Tudor Row Feature

Rieve Shoes Trendy quality ladies and gents shoes, if you want style and choice, it’s here at Rieve Shoes.

Gallery 14 Long established at 4 Tudor Row they offer original art, open and limited editions prints and more.

Cost Effective Advertising Advertise in the Lichfield Gazette and www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk and you will reach a potential 40,000 readers in and around Lichfield.

Tel: 01543 302748

Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Selina Taroni formerly of Tudor Row barbers has now joined the team at Bene Umbra of Tudor Row... Welcoming clients old and new. Bene Umbra offers fabulous quality hairdressing for men and women at a fraction of the 'big' salon prices...

Gents cut... £11.50 Cut and blow dry...from £19.95 Full head highlights with cut and blow dry... from £49.95 Appointments are not always necessary but advisable to avoid disappointment.

Call 01543 250676

NOW OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

Gazette Tudor Row Feature

Bene Umbra Quality affordable ladies and gents hairdressing at 9 Tudor Row, including cut n’ blow drys from £19.95.

Simply the Salon Look good and spend less this summer with our treatment packages all at 7 Tudor Row. .

Dresscode At 8 Tudor Row, offers affordable ladies fashion including clothes to fit up to size 20.

Take to Art This is an independent gallery housing contemporary original art that’s local, national and international. .

Page 45

GazetteLichfield Festival

People in the air and music from the universe The 2013 Lichfield Festival brings you music and theatre from around the world, from up in the air and even from up in the heavens during 11 days in July.

There is a real feel-good factor in the music that comes out of Cuba, especially when its exciting rhythms are mixed in with some instrumental jazz virtuosity. And that is what you get from the pianist, composer and bandleader Roberto Fonseca.

The young musician first came to international notice in the band of Cuban veterans known as the Buena Vista Social Club, but since then he has made a name for himself with collaborations and tours around the world.

His band mixes Cuban percussion and his spectacular piano playing, and now he has added the African harp, the kora, into the mix for even more aural delight.

Roberto flies in with his full band to play this relatively intimate theatre before heading down to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London. Grab the chance while you can!

Roberto Fonseca is at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre at 8pm on Thursday 11 July. Tickets are £15-£17.

From a little closer to home, the Festival is delighted to welcome firsttime Lichfield visitors the Irish Chamber Orchestra with their clarinettist, Robert Fonseca composer and conductor Jörg Widmann for a concert in Lichfield Cathedral.

This vibrant young orchestra from across the Irish Sea is playing a programme filled with favourites, including Mozart’s ever-popular Symphony No.40 and his clarinet concerto. Works by conductor Jörg Widmann will also be included.

The Irish Chamber Orchestra is a world-class orchestra renowned for its energy, unique sound and outstanding musicianship.

The Irish Chamber Orchestra is playing at 7.30pm on Saturday 6 July in Lichfield Cathedral.

Tickets are £11 to £26.

Irish Chamber Orchestra

Moving off the ground for a moment, Ockham’s Razor is a critically acclaimed aerial theatre company, specialising in creating physical theatre up in the air.

Their work explores the relationships between people and they create stories from the vulnerability, trust and reliance that exists between individuals, especially when they need to hold on to each other to keep from falling Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

to the ground. This combination of acting and circus skills really is a treat for all ages, and will be a fine family finale to the Festival. For the Lichfield Festival they are presenting a Triple Bill of their favourite works.

Ockham’s Razor appear in the Lichfield Garrick Theatre on Saturday 13 July at 8pm. Tickets are £16 and £13 and there is a family ticket for £45.

And so out into space and also back in time.

“The ancient Greeks spoke of an ever-present music created by the planets as they Ockham’s Razor revolved around the earth. This idea of a natural celestial music has fascinated writers and composers ever since.”

These are the words of Robert Hollingworth, the leader of the superb group of singers called I Fagiolini.

He was inspired to compile a programme of music that he hears as “the music of the spheres” and the choir will be singing it in Lichfield Cathedral.

I Fagiolini are singing in Lichfield Cathedral at 7.30pm on Friday 5 July. Tickets are £11-£26.

I Faglioni (photo by Eric Richmond) Bigger role for Lichfield Festival’s third venue The Lichfield Festival has expanded its literary offer this year with its third major venue, The George Hotel, hosting 19 author talks over the 11 days of the festival (4-14 July).

Talks by the philosopher A C Grayling and historical biographers Alison Weir and John Guy have already sold out, but there are still tickets left for a wide range of fascinating author events.

In the field of science, Andrew Robinson focuses on the famous scientists themselves and their painstaking years of work to discovery, while Peter Atkins explains the private life of atoms in his book Reactions.

This nation and our idiosyncrasies come under the spotlight in Henry Hitchings’s Sorry! The English & Their Manners, Matt Rudd’s The English: A Field Guide, which will feature live illustration by Spilsbury, and Richard Davenport-Hines’ An English Affair, which is all about the Profumo scandal in the 1960s.

Other topics with bookworm appeal include John Mullan talking about What Matters In Jane Austen,

Gillian Shepherd on The Real Iron Lady, Paul Kildea on Benjamin Britten, Huw Lewis-Jones on The Conquest Of Everest, Alister McGrath on CS Lewis, Deborah Bull, the ballet dancer, on The Everyday Dancer, and Tracy Borman on The Witches of Belvoir.

For more information on all these author talks, which are held in the elegant surroundings of the Garrick Room, go to www.lichfieldfestival.org.

Vintage Tea Event Gets Competitive If baking is the new rock and roll, Lichfield Festival’s Vintage Tea Party looks set to become an unmissable gig for all cake fans. Thanks to event sponsors Hindleys Bakery, the Great Lichfield Bake Off competition is now underway.

Budding bakers and experienced cake-makers are all invited to show off their baking prowess with majestic meringues, scrummy sponges or amazing apple cakes.

Entry is completely free with two age categories and a separate primary schools’ competition. Judging takes place at the Vintage Tea Party and the overall winner will see their recipe re-created in Hindleys, with all profits going to a charity of their choice.

The Vintage Tea Party takes place in the Cathedral Close from 1-4pm on Saturday 13 July and promises a very tasty vintage summer tea party with live entertainment, vintage stalls and children’s activities inspired by the glamorous 1930s. Visitors are encouraged to glam-up in vintage dress and enjoy an afternoon of simple pleasures.

Applications forms for the Great Lichfield Bake-Off are available on-line at http://www.lichfieldfestival.org/blog/2013/04/vintage-teaparty/ or www.hindleys-bakers.co.uk or from Hindleys Bakery at 10 Tamworth Street.

Tickets for all these events and over 60 others can be booked as follows: Book online at www.lichfieldfestival.org Book by phone on 01543 412121 or in person at Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR. Monday to Saturday 11.00am to 5.00pm (9.30pm on show nights) Information: 01543 306270 facebook.com/lichfieldfestival Twitter: @lichfieldfest #LichFest13

01543 262244 Page 47

GazetteLichfield Festival Lichfield Festival – Author Listings 4 July 2013 Andrew Robinson 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

The Scientists. Tickets £8 Alison Weir 3.45pm at The George Hotel.

Mary Boleyn. Tickets £8.

7 July 2013 Tracy Borman 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

The Witches of Belvoir. Tickets £8.

George Pattison 3.45pm at The George Hotel.

God And Being. Tickets £8 8 July 2013 Richard Davenport-Hines 2.00pm at The George Hotel. An English Affair. Tickets £8.

Guy Halsall 3.45pm at The George Hotel.

Worlds Of Arthur. Tickets £8 Ruthie Henshall 4.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. So You Want To Be In Musicals?

Tickets £9 Kate Humble 6.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Humble By Nature. Tickets £9 P.D. James 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. Big Read:– Death Comes To Pemberley. Tickets £17 9 July 2013 Diarmaid MacCulloch 10.00am at The George Hotel.

Silence: A Christian History.

Tickets £8 Peter Atkins 11.45pm at The George Hotel.

Reactions. Tickets £8 Kate Mosse 6.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Citadel. Tickets £10 10 July 2013 Alister McGrath 2.00pm at The George Hotel. C S Lewis. Tickets £8 Deborah Bull 2.45 at The George Hotel. The Everyday Dancer. Tickets £8 11 July 2013 Daphne Hampson 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

Kierkegaard: Exposition & Critque. Tickets £8

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

12 July 2013 Huw Lewis-Jones 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

The Conquest Of Everest.

Tickets £8 Paul Kildea 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

Benjamin Britten. Tickets £8 13 July 2013 Gillian Shephard 11.45am at The George Hotel.

The Real Iron Lady. Tickets £8 Henry Hitchings 2.00om at The George Hotel.

The English And Their Manners.

Tickets £8.

Matt Rudd 2.45pm at The George Hotel.

The English. Tickets £8 14 July 2013 A.C. Grayling 2.00pm at The George Hotel.

The God Argument. Tickets £9 John Mullan 3.45pm at The George Hotel.

What Matters In Jane Austen?

Tickets £8 Tel: 01543 412121 - Box Office

Lichfield Festival Classical Music Listings 4 July Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra 7.30pm ay Lichfield Cathedral.

The 32nd Lichfield Festival opens with Britten’s violin concerto and Shostakovich 5.

Tickets £11-23 5 July Darin Qualls & Chie Nagatani 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral. A violin and piano programme including Faure, Ravel and Stravinsky. Tickets £11 The Skampa Quartet 7.30pm at St Michael’s Church.

The Czech string quartet play Mendelssohn and Schubert in this intimate church. Tickets £16 I Fagiolini 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Music of the Spheres – the vocal group sings Tallis, Josquin and more. Tickets £11 - £26 6 July Aisa Ijiri 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

Young artist series: the Japanese pianist plays Liszt, Prokofiev and De Falla. Tickets £11

Irish Chamber Orchestra 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

First-time visitors to Lichfield play Mozart and works by conductor/clarinettist Jorg Widmann. Tickets £11 - £26 8 July Philip Higham 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

Young artist series: The risingstar cellist plays Suites No.3 by Bach and Britten. Tickets £11 Iestyn Davies and Thomas Dunford 10.00pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

The counter-tenor and lutenist present a programme of songs

by Dowland, Purcell, etc. Tickets £15 9 July Bartosz Woroch 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

Young artist series: the Polishborn violinist will play solo works

by Bach, Kreisler and Ysaye.

Tickets £11

Rameau, Ravel and Piazzolla for flute, saxophone and harp.

Tickets £16 13 July Philharmonia Orchestra 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Philip Higham is soloist for Elgar’s cello concerto, and the Festival Chorus joins in for Beethoven’s 9th. Tickets £11 £26 Tel: 01543 412121 - Box Office

Lichfield Festival Gig Listings

Heath Quartet 3.00pm at Swinfen Hall Hotel.

Royal Philharmonic Society Young Artists Award-winners play Haydn, Berg and Mendelssohn.

Tickets £16

8 July Laura Mvula 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

The voice of 2013 and her band in a once-in-a-lifetime venue.

Tickets £11 - £23

10 July Peter Holder 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

The Westminster Abbey organ scholar gives this year’s Festival organ recital. Tickets £11

9 July Spiers & Boden 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Best Duo dishes out punky English folk music. Tickets £17

Hannah Stone 9.45pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

The official harpist to the Prince of Wales plays late at night by candlelight. Tickets £14

12 July The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

The Ukes continue their world tour with only hand luggage.

Tickets £11 - £26

11 July Kuniko Kato 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

Young Artist Series: the inventive percussionist plays Bach, Part and Steve Reich. Tickets £11 Tasmin Little with the European Union Chamber Orchestra 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

The violinist joins Has-Peter Hofmann and his festival favourites for Bach, Mozart, Grieg and more. £11 - £26 12 July Daria Bitsiuk 11.00am at Lichfield Cathedral.

Young Artist Series: Born in Kiev, Bitsiuk is playing Debussy, Beethoven and more. Tickets £11 Caliente 3.00pm at St Michael’s Church.

Tel: 01543 412121 - Box Office

LICHFIELD FESTIVAL JAZZ LISTING 10 July The Swingle Singers 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Cappella singers pushing the boundaries of what the voice can do. Tickets £20 - £24 11 July Roberto Fonseca Band 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Cuban jazz from the former Buena Vista pianist and his band which now includes kora. Tickets £15 - £17

12 July Zoe Rahman Quartet 10.00pm at Lichfield Cathedral.

Late-night jazz from pianist Zoe Rahman and her trio with flautist Rowland Sutherland. Tickets £14 Tel: 01543 412121 - Box Office

Lichfield Festival Theatre Listings 5 and 6 July Being Human 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. A dramatic performance of extraordinary poetry from around the world. Tickets £13 6 July LipService presents Inspector Norse 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. Selfassembly Scandinavian crime thriller from award-winning comedy duo. £15 - £17 8 and 9 July The School Of The Night 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Literary improv show creating a new Shakespearean play from scratch. Tickets £14 10 and 11 July Barbershopera 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Three Musketeers reinvented with a cappella harmony. £14 12 and 13 July Fellswoop Theatre presents Ablutions 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Blending a live soundtrack, detailed mime and heartwrenching humour. Tickets £14 13 July Ockham’s Razor Triple Bill 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Critically acclaimed aerial theatre exploring relationships and trust.

Tickets £13 - £16 Tel: 01543 412121 - Box Office

Gazette Woman

Fabulous Swimwear at A Touch of Class

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

Looking for gorgeous swimwear and beachwear in Lichfield? Why not pop into A Touch of Class on Market Street?

This lingerie, nightwear and swimwear boutique is very aptly named, as one glance at their window displays will tell you. If you’ve often admired pieces in their window, but perhaps have never had the opportunity to go in you are truly missing a treat.

A Touch of Class is owned by Mandy Elton who opened on Market Street eight years ago.

Since then it’s become a truly beloved boutique by the customers who shop there. A Touch of Class is a real gem, not only are the staff genuinely friendly and professional, there’s also a real joy for what they do, and none of the stuffiness you

wrap up and crossing them behind the neck. This allows each wrap to be used in so many ways and they come in delicate chiffons, cottons and crepe materials, opaque and otherwise.

A Touch of Class stock Sunflair, Demela, Anita and Best Form swimwear, ranges known for their beautiful cut and flattering design and colour palette.

One of the advantages of shopping for swimwear at A Touch of Class is that they can not only fit your bikini or swimsuit perfectly through their bra fitting service, but they also stock ranges that are flattering and supportive no matter what your age or body shape.

From delicate bikinis to vintage look swimsuits with underwired cups etc and discreet tummy control.

placed in a black boutique bag Mandy Elton, owner of A Touch decorated with pink, red or gold of Class. ribbons of your choice. There’s even a spritz of delicate La Perla WIN WIN WIN £25 GIFT VOUCHER fragrance available for each We’ve got together with a Touch of Class to offer a Gazette reader customer if they wish.

Swimwear at A Touch of Class is the chance to win a £25 gift voucher redeemable on any item within A Touch of Class. currently on sale with a 20% To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following discount in store. Pre sale, question... swimsuits start at around £75 and bikinis at around £34.

Q. Where is A Touch of Class situated?

Mandy and colleagues Lucinda a) Tamworth Street and Emma are lovely people, and b) Breadmarket Street make the experience of shopping c) Market Street. for swimwear a real pleasure, offering help and advice if needed Just send your name, answer and contact details to A Touch of or just letting the customer browse in peace. They have that happy Class Competition, PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email knack of being available if needed, gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk One entry per household please, duplicates will be disqualified. whilst giving you the space and Winners will be notified by Thursday 18th July* time for a good no obligation browse (there’s no hovering or high A Touch of Class is located at 15 Market Street, Lichfield, WS13 JX. Tel: 01543 257696. www.finestlingerie.com pressure sales!) *Please note, the winner of the competition must collect their gift voucher from A Touch of Class.

Lucinda Watton with some of the range. might expect to find in such a classy and beautifully stocked shop.

The swimwear range at A Touch of Class covers classic and contemporary designs, starting at 32B and going up to a 42D. The range includes bikinis, tankinins, swimsuits, beach dresses, kaftans and wraps. The wraps transform into rather gorgeous beach dresses by simply bringing two ends of the

They also stock mastectomy swimwear and owner, Mandy, is a trained fitter of bras for women for have undergone this procedure, offering kind, practical and sensitive advice.

Touch of Class is a fabulous place to purchase holiday lingerie, sleepwear and maternity lingerie too All purchases are wrapped in delicate pink tissue paper and

Great matching swimwear Page 49

GazetteWoman

Swimwear that Sizzles

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

What a strange summer we’ve been having so far this year, I honestly have no idea what kind of weather conditions will be facing me every morning when I open my curtains......bright sun, grey drizzle, all out cats and dogs or a mixture of all three.

Who can blame us then for contemplating a bit of sun and planning a holiday to warmer climes over the next few months.

If this is the case, maybe you’re on the look-out for some gorgeous new swimwear for glamour in and around the pool or lazing underneath a beach umbrella?

The first rule of swimwear is of course that it should flatter, fit and be appropriate for whatever you like to get up to on the beach. It’s no good going for a cut-away bikini if you like to swim, or a full on vintage one-piece of you want minimum tan lines.

There are eight main swimwear trends featured in both high street and designer collections 2013 - neon, monochrome, digital print, vintage, ruffles and bows, crochet, mismatch and Grecian goddess. Here’s a few ideas from some of the best as food for thought. Just add blue seas, white sands and a big smile.

7. Zimmerman Thistleweave mismatched bikini £110.

1. Freya Crush Soft Triangle bikini £47

1. Neon The best way to play with neon (unless you are naturally olive skinned) is to go for neon accents over a black background. This gives a nod to the trend whilst being easy to wear. Of course, if you do have naturally dark skin you can go as bright as you like and it will always look great.

2. Monochrome Classic black and white, in animal print, chevron or even polka dot is a timeless combination. It can also be used to balance your figure, adding lighter colours to give the impression of a fuller décolletage.

3. Digital print Floral, graphic, city print, Warhol print, whatever you fancy - digital prints add an edge to any swimwear. Don’t try to match up, go for clashing prints to look fresh and sunny.

2. Oasis Mono Stripe bandeau bikini £22

3. We Are Handsome Print underwired panel swimsuit £255

5. ASOS Water Colour floral

8. Mouille Grecian one piece

4. Seafolly Rococo Rose vintage

cupped peplum suit £35

4. Vintage You’ll find great examples of vintage inspired swimwear all over the high street, these structured forms are brilliant for maximising va va voom in curvy girls and bringing out the sweet sophistication in more athletic frames.

5. Ruffles and bows A trend for all you romantics out there, petal pretty and referencing high-end lingerie.

6. Crochet Such a boho luxe look, crochet looks as hot now as it did when first used in swimwear in the 1970’s.

7. Mismatch An interesting departure and British women with their innate fashion edge are leading the way in mismatched bikinis. Mix prints with block colour and you have an instantly unique combination. There are no rules.

8. Grecian goddess Such a great look - sashes, halter necks and asymmetric pieces look good on any body type and can even be worn as a one piece under sarongs and wide leg trousers.

Images asos.com and zimmerman.com

Page 50 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

6. Marie Meili pink crochet string bikini £105

swimsuit £95

SIMPLY THE SALON

swimsuit £105

Come along to Simply THE Salon and prepare for the Summer. Buff, polish and tan your body to perfection with our range of professional treatments, including Elemis Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap, reducing the appearance of cellulite for that trim bikini body. A Clarins Body Polisher will brighten and nourish the skin, and an Orly GelFX Pedicure will leave the feet silky soft, with gel polish lasting the duration of your holiday, leaving you free to enjoy yourself, and soak up the sun. Our extensive retail area has all your summer essentials, including sun cream, tinted moisturiser, and sunless tanners.

GazetteWoman

Gorgeous ranges

at Debenhams

The new Debenhams store in Lichfield is a treasure trove of gorgeous cosmetics, skincare and fragrances, fashion, homeware and so much more including swimwear.

As you walk in to the store you pass through a delightful cosmetics, skincare and fragrance department before coming to swimwear and beachwear, where it’s immediately obvious that there are some truly stunning pieces available.

I visited the store recently with Zak James-Colgrave (Sales Manager, Lichfield) who introduced me to some of the range. I was particularly struck with the vintage ranges of ‘Floozie’ and ‘Mantaray’ with swimsuits and bikinis that team up modern fabrics and structural design with real vintage style.

Adding gorgeous fabrics and colour to ruffles and bows, peplums and structured bikini tops in either a subtle nod to the trend or full on 50’s pin-up, these

are styles that suit athletic frames or bring out the beach goddess in more curvaceous figures.

Also available in store is the Jasper Conran range that offers real catwalk glamour at remarkably reasonable prices (just £38 for a bikini). Strong but very ‘high end’ colour combinations are mixed with sleek design, so that even a matching set of his very fashionable graphic print swimwear doesn’t look too much.

Clever stuff.

Within the department is not only swimwear but beachwear and other holiday clothing including beach dresses, from a simple LBD to mega cute playsuits plus sunglasses, beach bags and sandals.

A new innovation are in store ‘kiosks’. These are internet connected self service order points that allow you to browse pretty much every item that any Debenhams in the country sells, order it in your correct colour and size, pay for it by card and have

it delivered to the store or your home within a few days. In this way Debenhams Lichfield is able to offer the same ranges as Debenhams, Oxford Street. More kiosks are being installed on every floor in the next few weeks and on my visit, they were being well used by canny fashionistas and shoppers.

Swimwear comes in up to an E-cup and there are trained brafitters on hand to make sure you get the very best fit. Debenhams also stock swimwear and beachwear for men and there’s also a range for children available.

Zak James-Colgrave in store

If your taste is more classic, Debenhams stocks a fabulous range of chic swimwear and a very large range of mix-andmatch black separates (bikini/tankini tops and bottoms) so you can co-ordinate or mix it up in true contemporary style.

The staff at Debenhams are

happy to help with any query, and are as friendly, smiley and well informed as you could wish. It was obvious that Zak and his team have a genuine enjoyment in what they do, and that makes the whole experience of shopping at Debenhams Lichfield a very pleasant one.

WIN WIN WIN £75 VOUCHER

We’ve teamed up with Debenhams to offer one Gazette reader the chance to win £75 worth of swim or beachwear (to be chosen by the winner in store). To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question.

Q. Debenhams Lichfield stocks the swimwear range of designer Jasper.......

A. Conran B. Conrad C. Conan

Pretty as a picture vintage swimwear

Send your name, answer and contact details to Lichfield Gazette Debenhams competition. PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk One entry per household please.

Duplicates will be disqualified. Winner will be notified on Thursday 18th July. Good luck!

Debenhams can be found in the Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield www.debenhams.com

Page 51

Love the skin you’re in!

Summer Beauty By Caz Jones

O

n Friday 21st June at 4.52am the sun rose on the longest day of year – summer had officially begun! This year's summer solstice also stood out because it was followed shortly after by the largest ‘supermoon’ of the year. In the early hours of Sunday, June 23, the moon officially reached its full phase and was closer to Earth than it will be all year. After Friday, the days get shorter until the winter solstice on December 21 when they start to

Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

get longer again.

In the meantime most sun seeking Brits will be chasing the sun (a six billion year old star!) abroad in hope of developing the usual summer ‘must have’ – a suntan.

There are thousands of products available to help protect your skin and build up a suntan but many of us are unsure about which one to choose. And how many of us know the difference between harmful UVA and UVB radiation?

The easiest way to remember is that UVA is for aging and UVB is for burning and there are two types of sunscreen – physical and chemical.

Physical sunscreens reflect all UV wavelengths and coat your skin with minerals like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These types of sunscreen are usually gentler on the skin, don’t sting sensitive skin and generally don’t smell too strong.

However there are drawbacks as they can contain nanoparticles and there is some concern about whether the nanoparticles are penetrating into the body.

Chemical sunscreens have ingredients that filter out UVA and UVB rays and are generally the ones that have that ‘sunscreen smell’ and can sometimes sting sensitive skin Buying sun tan lotion can be a minefield of confusion but it’s an essential purchase, and short of remaining indoors or completely covering up, it’s the only way to protect and nourish your skin.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) refers to the amount of time you can stay in the sun without burning.

Some products are available in SPF2 with others reaching SPF70.

To work out how long you can stay in the sun you need to consider this: if you normally burn in 10 minutes when not using a sunscreen, a sunscreen with SPF 15 should allow you to sun-bathe for 150 minutes. (Minutes to burn without sunscreen x SPF number = maximum sun exposure time).

Of course this isn’t an exact science; it’s just a general guideline

which leaves you to decide what you’re most comfortable with and what works best for you.

Most dermatologists would recommend all year round sun protection with a minimum SPF15– even in gloomy British weather. The sun’s rays may be weaker in this country for most of the year, but sun damaged skin can still occur through casual sun exposure on a dull day.

You should also make sure that you don’t use products that are more than 2 years old as their properties can degrade over time.

Don’t rely on sunscreens alone to protect your skin. Wearing a large broad brimmed hat and tightly woven cotton clothes will offer some skin protection. Limit the amount of time you spend in the sun and always seek shade at the hottest part of the day. The best sun tan is one that you gain slowly and safely.

Recent reports on Watchdog seemed to indicate huge allergic reactions to Johnson & Johnson Piz Buin 1 day long sunscreen but it’s worth noting that according to the manufacturers that the number of complaints relating to skin irritation equates to approximately 0.01% of sales in the UK and Ireland.

Page 53

Gazette

Weddings

Jade Harvey and Danny Bayliss were married on 27th April at St. Chad's Church, Lichfield. They held their wedding reception at Packington Moor, Whittington.

Photography by Robert Yardley.

Amy Petch and David Powell were married at St. John's Church, Shenstone on the 18th May. Amy and David held their wedding reception at Aston Wood Golf Club. Photography by Robert Yardley.

Lichfield couple Gemma Pitt and Shane Dolman were married at the Riverside Hotel, Branston on 5th April.

Photography by Robert Yardley.

Helen Kingsbury and Martin Sheasby were married on 25th May at the George Hotel, Lichfield. The wedding reception was also at the George Hotel. Photography

by Robert Yardley.

Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

What’s on

Dining Ou

t

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD 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.

Sat 25 Jun – Fri 14 Jul CATHEDRAL - Art Exhibition At Emporium Art Gallery.

Combining inks, paints and drawing materials, artist Lesley Westrop explores the architectural detail of Lichfield Cathedral, creating contemporary, colourdrenched ethereal images that evoke the character of this ancient building.

Sat 29 June Armed Forces Day at the NMA 9.00am to 5.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. With activities for the whole family, visit the NMA, to show your support for HM Armed Forces with a full programme of events to commemorate and celebrate the men and women of the Armed Forces community, which includes serving personnel and their families, veterans and the Cadet Forces. Free admission but donations will be accepted.

Henhouse Children's Art School 10.00am to 12 noon at St Michael's Church Hall.

Saturday morning art classes for 5 yrs to teens. First trial session is pay as you go, after which pre-booking is essential.

Science on Saturday 10.00am to 12 noon at Erasmus Darwin House.

Science club for children aged 7-11.

This month's meeting is Why

Do Plants Have Such Funny Names? £4 per child.

Vintage & Country Gardens 10.00am to 5.00pm at Curborough Antiques and Craft Centre. Taking the vintage & handmade revival outside! The first garden festival with the vintage edge.

Welcome to the Festival with rocks & frocks. Join us for a day of vintage fashion, memorabilia, contemporary country chic, classic country garden planting, fun, local produce and music.

Wimbledon strawberries and cream event 11.00am to 3.00pm at The Kitchen Shop. To celebrate the oldest Tennis Tournament in the World and a very British Summer tradition, enjoy strawberries and cream courtesy of The Kitchen Shop for all customers on both Wimbledon Saturdays. Local farm, 'New Farm Produce' in Elmhurst will be providing their juiciest strawberries for customers to try.

At Uttoxeter Racecourse. The summer highlight perfect for all the family, fantastic jump racing at its best. £25 premier, £20 grandstand and paddock, £10 centre course.

Mon 1 July Lichfield Folk Dance Club 8.00pm to 10.15pm at Bader, King Edward VI School. In English Country dancing, people of all ages dance with a partner but also in larger groups. Some of the dances are newly composed: some have been enjoyed from as far back as the 17th century.

They are always explained to remind everyone of the sequence of movements involved. The music is normally CD's and led by a

caller. There is no need to come with a partner: the atmosphere is informal with emphasis on friendliness and enjoyment. Every Monday (Closed during August). Many members but looking for new members to join. Enquiries to Derek on 01543 252 246 or go to www.lichfieldfolk danceclub.co.uk Tue 2 July Community Dropin 9.30am to 10.30am at Lakeside Bistro. Talk with members of the parks team to discuss how local parks could be improved. We want to hear your thoughts, concerns and suggestions.

Neaten and Natter 11.00am to 1.00pm at Beacon Park. Monthly volunteer event (1st Tuesday of the month except January). Make friends and help to keep Beacon Park beautiful. Tasks include litter picking and weeding.

Wed 3 July Nettle, Thistle and Weed Clearance 10.30am to 3.00pm at Christian Fields.

Our Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (or CPCG for short) plays an important role in local nature conservation and we're always looking for volunteers to help out.

The CPCG will be returning to Christian Fields for a second

Summer Concert 7.30pm at St Chad's Church.

Enjoy a summer evening concert courtesy of the Lichfield Singers. Listen to the sounds of Vivaldi’s Gloria, Goodall’s Love Divine, Faure’s Cantique de Jean Racine and more! Tickets available from S & J Music, 23 Bird Street, Lichfield.

Friday Voices 8.00pm to 11.00pm at St Peter's Church, Elford. Music for a mid-Summer evening by an award-winning choir. Starts at 8pm. Tickets costs £8 (includes cheese and wine) available from Sue (01287 383487), Jane (01827 383645 or Anne (01283 762120) Sun 30 June John Smith's Summer Cup Page 55

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD day of slashing back the nettles and over grown footpaths using slashers, saws, loppers, and rakes. The group will also be clearing and preparing two new areas to create new areas of wildflower next year. These will be seeded by the group at a later event. To book your free place, please contact the countryside team using the contact details below. For more information about the CPCG call 01543 308183 or email countryside@ lichfielddc.gov.uk.

to everyone.

Fuse Community Outreach Project 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Wade Street Church Hall. Always wanted to join a choir but never had the confidence? Do you sing in the shower, your car, or somewhere else when no-one is around? Would you love to sing just for the fun of it with others? Then the Fuse Community Choir is for you!

The sessions are free, for all ages (under 16s must be accompanied by an over 18) and families are especially welcome. With no waiting list, no previous experience necessary, no audition or requirements to be able to read music, the choir is open

Lichfield Farmers' Market 9.00am to 3.30pm at Lichfield Market Square.

T

Thu 4 - Sun 14 July Lichfield Festival At various venues across Lichfield. See page 48.

Thu 4 July Moth Recording Morning 8.30am to 10.30am at Beacon Park. Join us first thing to try and ID moths caught in the trap from the night before. The presence of moths cannot be guaranteed, therefore please ring 07931 891086 from 8am to confirm.

Sat 6 & Sun 7 July Cars in the Park At Beacon Park. Featuring displays of classics from owners and car clubs. Among the new vehicles on show will be models by Dacia, Bentley, Lamborghini, Lexus, Ford, Fiat, Peugeot and Toyota and many other dealerships exhibiting. Around 1,000 cars will be on display, while JCB will also be demonstrating some of their newest and oldest models. Camping available on site in the park.

Entrance by donation to

Midlands Air Ambulance, car parking £5.

The Great War Living History Weekend 10.00am to 4.00pm at Regiment Staffordshire Museum. Commemorating the role of the South and North Staffordshire Regiments Battalions in the Great War of 1914-1918. Museum staff, volunteers and re-enactors will re-create the experience of trench life using period dress and equipment. There will be a unique opportunity to try on uniforms, meet some of our resident ‘Tommie’s’ and handle the weapons and equipment of the period. £6 adults, £4 concessions, £15 family (2 adults and 3 children).

Sat 6 - Sun 14 July Guided Tour of The Lichfield Story Exhibition and Spire Climb At Lichfield Heritage Centre.

Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibition and climb the 40m spire for the best views of Lichfield! £2.50 exhibition, £2.75 spire climb with guided tour.

Sat 6 July Henhouse Children's Art

Brian Conley to perform at the Lichfield Garrick

he Lichfield Garrick has announced that comedian, singer, actor and chat show host Brian Conley will perform at the theatre for one night only on Sunday 29 September.

A versatile performer whose unique sense of comedy and comic timing has audiences demanding more, Brian will also perform songs from some of the award-winning West End musicals in which he’s starred including Hairspray, Jolson and Me and My Girl to name but a few.

Tickets cost £20, and can be booked online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

Page 56 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

School At St Michael's Church Hall.

See Sat 29 Jun for details.

Florette Festival Market 10.00am to 4.30pm at Cathedral Close. Featuring artists and craftspeople from across the region, the popular Festival Market is sponsored

by Florette and is a great day out for all the family. Browse from over 130 craft stalls, or sample a variety of local food and drink. You can also watch demonstrations of traditional crafts or take a tour of the Cathedral, while younger visitors try their hand at wandmaking, have their faces painted, or take their turn at a number of charity game stalls.

With entertainment from local performers throughout the day, this is a perfect day out for all the family. Car parking at the Festival Market: The committee at Cars In The Park is offering all day parking at Beacon Park for just £2, with all proceeds going to Lichfield St Chad Rotary.

Ask The Expert Day at Broads Travel.

11.00am to 3.00pm at Broads Travel. If you’re looking for holiday inspiration and would like to discover more about Turkey, North Cyprus, Croatia, Madeira, Morocco, Egypt or Jordan, come along to the ‘Ask The Expert Day’ at Broads Travel where you can meet a representative from Anatolian Sky, the awardwinning specialist tour operator, who has extensive knowledge of these destinations and can answer all your questions.

Wimbledon strawberries and cream event At The Kitchen Shop. See Sat 29 June for details.

The Samaritans at Speakers' Corner 12.00pm to 1.00pm at Speakers' Corner.

A representative from The Samaritans will be at Speakers corner to give details of the organisation and to take questions from the public.

Johnson in the Round 10.30am to 4.30pm at The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. See page 10.

Sun 7 July Summer Gourmet Dinner At Netherstowe House. Enjoy a sumptuous evening of the finest seasonal food, accompanied by matched wines. Tel: 01543 254270.

Cycle Rides for All 11.00am or 1.00pm at Beacon Park. All members of the family are invited to bring their cycles for a 3.5 mile ride around Lichfield for a "Taster Ride" to start the season.

Meet the ride leaders at the Pavilion on Beacon Park for one of the two taster sessions and get the summer off to a good start!

Wed 10 July Fuse Community Outreach Project At Wade Street Church Hall.

See Wed 3 July for details.

Fri 12 - Sun 14 July Fuse 2013 at Beacon Park. separate article.

See

Sat 13 July Party in the Park At The Recreation Ground, Little Aston. Featuring The City of Lichfield Concert Band, The Greatest Take That and Bootleg Abba. Bring your own chairs, blankets, picnics & drinks. There will be a barbecue & bar available during the evening. Tickets are £15 per adult & £5 for children aged 16 & under. The family orientated events are organised by local volunteers and supported by local businesses. Any profits go towards the upkeep of the Recreation Ground, which is used both by the local and wider community alike. An audience of 1,800 enjoyed a wonderful musical evening last June, ignoring the inclement weather! For further details, to book a stall at the fete or sponsor "Party in the Park" please contact sheilashaw03@btinternet.co m. For tickets please call Alan Wilson on 0121 353 5739.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Art and Craft Fair 10.00am to 4.30pm at The Guildhall. Unique quality crafts and art by members of the craft co-operative.

Henhouse Children's Art School At St Michael's Church Hall.

See Sat 29 June for details.

Vintage Tea Party 1.00pm to 4.00pm in The Close. Take a trip back in time to the glamorous 1930s and join us for a very vintage summer tea party. Celebrate the end of the Festival with live entertainment, vintage stalls and children’s activities.

Pack a picnic or indulge in Hindleys special Vintage Teas on offer all afternoon for £3.50. Come dressed in vintage style – Decades Vintage Boutique is offering a 20% discount on all costumes. The Great Lichfield Bake-Off will also be judged at this event. Organised by the Lichfield Festival and sponsored by Hindleys Bakery.

The Great Lichfield Bake Off 1.00pm to 4.00pm at Hindleys Bakery. In celebration of their 120th birthday, Hindley's Bakery have teamed up with Lichfield Festival and are sponsoring the Vintage Tea Party at the Cathedral Close.

To mark this occasion there will be ‘The Great Lichfield Bake off’ competition, where local people are encouraged to show off their baking prowess! Entry is completely free and there are three categories: juniors (15 & under), adult (16 & over) and a primary schools competition.

For more information about entering the competition and the prizes go to www.lichfieldfestival. org/wp-content/uploads/ 2013/04/Bake-Off-flyer.pdf Sun 14 July Lichfield Festival Eucharist 10.30am to 12 noon at Lichfield Cathedral. Come along to give thanks for this year's Lichfield Festival at the Festival Eucharist. Mozart Sparrow Mass KV220. With

the Lichfield Cathedral Choir, music led by directors of music Ben and Cathy Lamb and accompanied by Martyn Rawles, organist.

Festival Evensong 3.30pm to 4.15pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Come along to give thanks for this year's Lichfield Festival at the Festival Evensong. Stanford Evening Service in G. Elgar Give Unto The Lord. With the Lichfield Cathedral Choir, music led by directors of music Ben and Cathy Lamb and accompanied by Martyn Rawles, organist.

Tue 16 July Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals 1.00pm to 1.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. The return of the popular lunchtime organ series. Take time out of your busy day to relax and enjoy the splendid sounds and atmosphere of the cathedral.

Blood Thirsty Lichfield 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist

Information Centre. This tour is based on the very popular Gruesome and Ghostly tours but is designed especially for children and is an ideal way of keeping them entertained during the school holidays! All must be children accompanied by an adult. £1.65.

Art Workshop 6.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Create striking paintings and drawings in the monthly mixed media workshops led by award winning artist Carole Collier. Individual attention in small, friendly sessions with a different theme each month.

Workshops take place on the third Tuesday of each month.

Advance booking essential. £10 per session including all materials and refreshments.

Tel: 01543 264972.

Wed 17 July Civil War Tour 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Hear about the battles that took

place in the city during this bloody period, and the events that had a huge impact on Lichfield. £3 Fri 19 - Sat 20 July School’s Out! Dinner & Disco 7.00pm to 12.30am at The George Hotel. Dig out your old school uniform, re-live your youth and take a trip down memory lane with our School Dinner & Disco. Enjoy a 3course school themed dinner at long tables followed by a fantastic disco with all the best hits from your school days that are guaranteed to keep you on the dance floor! Fancy dress is essential! Please call 01543 414822 to book. £21 per person.

Mistresses 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. The stars of the sellout shows Mutton and Madame Blavatsky Lives are back with this sensational new play by Joan Greening whose comic genius has woven the lives of Nell Gwynn, Lillie

Enjoy the finest Cantonese and Chinese cuisine in Lichfield After 27 years in the city, so many people have come to recognise that in this area the name Ruby is synonymous with the very best of Chinese food.

There is so much to say about the Ruby in St John Street, Lichfield. To start with, there is the Ruby business lunch available weekdays for only £6.95 per person. In the evening, theatre goers can call into the Ruby for a ‘Before Curtains Up’ meal when the full a la carte menu is on offer, together with a very extensive wine list. The Ruby opens in the evening at 5.00pm.

Remember - The Ruby 'eat as much as you like' buffet is available Monday to Thursday, £11.95 and Friday & Saturday, £14.95. On Sunday why not try the 'all day buffet' between 12 noon and 4.30pm for just £8.95.

When a special occasion arises, such as a party, a wedding or anniversary celebration, the Ruby has a private room for hire where up to 50 people can enjoy the very best Cantonese and Chinese food. For details of this and any other enquiry you might have, please telephone the Ruby on 01543 251144 To book or to discuss your requirements, please telephone 01543 251144.

See our comprehensive website www.rubychineserestaurant.co.uk Page 57

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Fuse Festival is back for a 13th year 12TH to 14TH JULY

F

use, the FREE community arts festival is back for a 13th year in Beacon Park, Lichfield with a varied programme of music, performances, workshops and much more. Featuring music, dance, art and craft, workshops, performances, comedy, art exhibitions, food stalls, crafts and market stalls, licensed bar and more! Admission is free and programmes are available for £1.

Friday 12 July, 7pm to 10pm 7.00pm Dean James, 8.00pm The Valvolines, 9.00pm Knoxville Highway.

Saturday 13 July, 12noon to 10pm 12 noon Almost Easy (Battle of the Bands winners), 12.45pm Wildfire Folk, 1.45pm Kristy Gallacher, 2.45pm Strid, 3.45pm Bleeding Hearts, 5.00pm Peter Parker’s Rock N Roll Club, 6.15pm The Offbeat, 7.30pm Fred Zeppelin, 8.45pm to 10.00pm Global Reggae Band.

Sun 14 July 1 1 . 4 5 a m Revolution, 12.45pm The Modest, 2.00pm The Quik, 3.15pm Monkee Finga,

An eclectic fusion of music, art and dance with opportunities to meet and work with the performers and take part in various workshops and performances throughout the festival weekend. Great music all weekend performed inside and outside by fantastic bands and performers.

Fri 12 July 6.30pm The Tom Woodman Band, 8.00pm to 9.00pm Pearl Handled Revolver, 9.15pm meberob.

Sunday 14 July, 10.30am to 5.30pm 10.30am Church service – “From Gospel to Jazz and Blues”, 11.45am Funktional, 12.45pm Walsall Jazz Orchestra, 2.00pm Steve Ajao Blues Giants, 3.15pm Wonderbrass, 4.15pm (tbc) The Fuse Community Choir.

Sat 13 July 12 noon to 4.00pm Balloon Modelling with Heidi and Stephanie, 11.30am to 4.00pm The Loveheart Billionaires. 1.00pm to 2.00pm Lichfield Speakers Corner will be moving to The Fuse for one day, 4.00pm Pedralta World Fusion Dance, time tbc Reggae Drum workshop With Global Reggae, 1.00pm to 2.00pm Twysted Rootz Community Theatre Group, 2.00pm to 4.00pm Open Mic hosted by The Loveheart Billionaires, 5.00pm Culdesac, 7.00pm Jim McShee, 8.00pm The Roz Bruce infusion, 9.00pm The Strumtroopers.

A weekend programme of the best of local rock talent including:

Sun 14 July 12 noon to 4.00pm Balloon Modelling with Heidi and Stephanie, 1.00pm to 2.00pm Wonderbrass Walkaround, 11.00am to 2.00pm Fusion Street Dance Workshop and Performance,

Fri 12 July 7.00pm Back Up Plan, 8.00pm Ain’t No Disco, 9.00pm Live & Let Rock, Sat 13 July 12 noon (tbc), 12.45pm The Impendium, 1.45pm Diamond Lil, 2.45pm The Shooters, 3.45pm Rebel Creek, 5.00pm (tbc), 6.15pm (tbc), 7.30pm Bekah Downes, 8.45pm Last Orders,

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Come and join Jude and the team creating stencilled and decorated Saxon purses, willow and tissue stained glass windows, illuminated lettering and monograms. Plus, Environment

Day on Saturday 12noon to 4.30pm and Village Games on Sunday 12noon to 4pm.

The ever popular Fuse Market will be open throughout the festival weekend, including arts and crafts, clothing and hot and cold food.

For confirmation of performers, performance times and more information, visit www.lichfieldarts.org.uk

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Welcome to the all new Ruby Express in Lichfield City Centre We are part of the Ruby Cantonese & Chinese family here in Lichfield and our food is prepared by the very same chefs! Based in Lichfield City Centre, our mission is to provide restaurant quality food at high speed and low prices. All food comes in our awesome noodle boxes as seen on TV shows such as The Big Bang Theory!

The Ruby Express was founded by Wai-Lee Ho 3rd Generation Restaurateur, whose family have been serving Lichfield with the highest quality oriental food for over 27 years.

Due to popular demand, we are developing a pre-order system.

Soon you will be able to place your order the day before, ready to collect at your chosen time between 11.30am - 3.30pm Mon - Fri, and Sat 11.30am - 5pm Choose from some of your favourite Chinese dishes:- sweet & sour chicken, beef with green peppers & black bean sauce, chicken curry - and many more. The Ruby Express menu changes every week so there are plenty of alternatives to appeal to everyone.

You have probably seen the American style Noodle Boxes around the city - they are from The Ruby Express.

Mention The Lichfield Gazette when you call in for your order and get a bag of prawn crackers - FREE! “Our food is cooked by the same chefs found at the Ruby Cantonese & Chinese Restaurant, on St John Street Lichfield.

Restaurant quality food at take out prices!”

Find out more from our website:www.ruby-express.com

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD Langtry, Dorothy Jordan and the loves of Dante Gabriel Rossetti into a stunning historical drama. With pathos and bawdy humour, these mistresses of Kings and artists tell heart-rending tales of love, lust and laughter.

Fri 19 - Sun 21 July Burntwood Wakes At Burntwood Rugby Club.

The weekend of fun is set to kick-off with a night featuring the popular tribute band Swede Dreamz (an ABBA tribute act), supported by The Beatless, a locally based On Beatles tribute act.

Saturday, families can enjoy an amazing afternoon of free fun and entertainment including displays, food stalls, magician act, charity stalls, craft fayre, art and craft workshops and much more!

In the evening revellers will be entertained by The Staffordshire Festival Orchestra who will provide a traditional Proms concert.

Weather permitting; the evening will end with a spectacular firework finale to close the concert. On Sunday afternoon, head back to the Rugby Club to watch some great live music. All events free of charge.

Fri 19 July Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 16 July for details.

The Karpenters 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Beautiful music, fond memories, and nostalgic moments - it really is all about Yesterday Once More, and with The Karpenters, that's exactly what you get!

Sat 20 July Alrewas Show 8.30am to 5.00pm at Alrewas Showground. Agricultural and horticultural one day show with shire horses, cattle and sheep. Competitive classes, trade stands. Entertainment includes Ye Olde Redtail Falconry Display bringing the ancient art of Falconry to the modern age, with a comprehensive and thrilling display, that is guaranteed to thrill audiences of all ages and the Piston Ring Youth Motorcycle Club Display Team Main ring entertainment all day. Tickets £6 adults, £4 concessions, £3 children, £15 family.

Lichfield Wildlife Group 2.00pm Free guided walk at

Doxey Marshes. A wetland oasis near the centre of Stafford and one of the county's best bird watching sites!. Led by Scott Petrec.

Meet at Reserve entrance (Nearest Post Code ST16 1PU).

Go to www.doxeyca.org.uk for more information or call Ray Allen 01543 251654 for more information Nights On Broadway - The Bee Gees Story 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. A tribute to the Bee Gees through a fantastic live concert, featuring the Gibb brothers incredible songs from over four decades - from the 60s to the 90s. The show gives the audience the experience of being at a Bee Gees concert, with a unique blend of classic hits, acoustic medleys and dance floor favourites.

Sat 20 & Sun 21 July The Curborough Celebration Sprint 10.00am at The Curborough Sprint Course. Come along and celebrate 50 years of Curborough and 80 years of Shenstone & District Car Club. See drivers race against the clock at Britain's premier

Soap stars head to Lichfield for The Vagina Monologues Diane Keen

E

ve Ensler’s Broadway and West End smash hit, The Vagina Monologues, is back at the Lichfield Garrick this autumn with a brand new cast.

The popular show features Hollie-Jay Bowes (Hollyoaks), TV favourite Terri Dwyer (Hollyoaks, Grange Hill, Loose Women) and national treasure Diane Keen (Doctors, Ruth Rendell Mysteries).

The soap stars will be taking to the stage at the city centre theatre on Thursday 26 September 2013.

Tickets cost £19.50, and can be booked from www.lichfieldgarrick.com or by calling the Box Office on 01543 412121.

The Vagina Monologues donates a percentage of revenue from ticket sales to V-Day benefiting women’s charities across the world.

For more information about The Vagina Monologues visit www.vaginam Terri Dwyer onologues.co.uk

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speed venue.

To these commemorate milestones the Event will be called the "Curborough 500" and there will be a prize fund for the competitor who breaks any existing class record by the largest margin, or gets nearest to any class record.

Obviously the event will be popular, so Championship entrants are reminded to get their entries in asap. All welcome. Call Tel: 01543 264280 or go to www.curborough.co.uk for more information Summer Darwin Walk 10.00am at Meet at Bunkers Hill Car Park, off Sandford Street. Join members of the Darwin Walk Trust on an enjoyable walk round the outskirts of Lichfield. Call 01543 252246 or go to www.darwinwalk.org.uk for more information.

For Lovers of Romance 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Find out about the romantic liaisons of some of Lichfield's most famous sons and daughters. £6, includes a cup of tea or coffee with a scone, jam and cream at Erasmus Darwin House Tue 23 July Mini-monsters Bug Hunt and Pond Dipping 10.00am to 12 noon or 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Family pond dipping and bug hunting as part of National Family Week. All children must be accompanied. £1 per child.

Booking is essential - call 01543 308867 Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 16 July for details.

Wed 24 July Georgian Gems 7.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Lichfield was home to many famous people and this tour uncovers the lives of these characters. £3.

Hollie-Jay Bowes

Midday Variety 2.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

An afternoon of the finest variety presented by Malcolm Stent.

Thu 25 July Paint a Bird Box 11.00am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Join Beacon Park rangers and paint a bird box (while stocks last) at this drop?in event. From £3.50.

Call 01543 308869.

Senior Citizens’ Summer Lunch 11.45am to 3.00pm at The George Hotel. Enjoy Bucks Fizz or a glass of orange juice on arrival followed by a delicious three-course lunch in the Regency Garrick Suite, with piano accompaniment. £17.50 per person.

Lichfield Civic Society Meeting 7.45pm at Lichfield Heritage Centre. Come along and listen to ‘Walking the Hexigon of France’ by special guest speaker Tony Cudbird. Free to members, £3 non-members.

Dracula Walks The Night 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. In true Hammer Horror fashion, this frighteningly effective, original show pits the vampire Count against Van Helsing and Sherlock Holmes in Victorian London.

Eerie graveyard vigils, hansom cab chases, neardeath misses and fiendish plots a-plenty guarantee audiences an evening of classic chills.

Fri 26 July Ladies' Day At Uttoxeter Racecourse. Get your friends together and enjoy a fantastic afternoon of glamour and racing. £22 premier, £18 grandstand and paddock, £9 centre course.

Music for Reflection - Series of Organ Recitals At Lichfield Cathedral. See Tue 17 July for details.

The Bert Kaempfert Orchestra in concert 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

The Gala Concert features classic songs and new arrangements of music.

Bert Kaempfert died in June

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD 1980, however, he left a wonderful legacy of popular music - songs which provided hits for many of the world's top singers. Spanish Eyes became a hit for Wayne Newton, Danke Schoen was a hit for Johnny Mathis, Love became a hit for Nat King Cole, and Kaempfert's Strangers In The Night provided the hit record for Frank Sinatra.

Sat 27 July Georgian Gems 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. Lichfield was home to many famous people and this tour uncovers the lives of these characters. £3.

The Upbeat Beatles 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. The 50th Anniversary Tour. The Upbeat Beatles are the best in the business at recreating the excitement, raw energy and authentic sound of the original Fab Four. This show will have you tapping your feet from the opening bars - dancing in the aisle, and screaming like you did in '63!

Kings Bromley Victorian Country Show 9.00am at Kings Bromley Show Field.

Held on the fourth Saturday in July each year this is one of the longest running shows in Staffordshire. Visitor numbers are around 2,500 and a friendlier show would be hard to find.

Presented by Kings Bromley Horticultural Society. A great family day out with entertainment to suit all ages.

Family (2 adults & 2 under 16s) £12, Adult £5, Seniors & Under 16’s £3, Under 5’s and Parking Free. Visit www.kingsbromleyshow.co.uk for more information and a schedule to enter the competitive classes Sun 28 July Alrewas Village Tour 2.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. A walking tour around a pretty and historic village. £6, includes a cup of tea or coffee and scone at the George and Dragon public house.

Tue 30 July Fashion Show 7.30pm at Holy Cross Parish Hall An opportunity to buy high street fashion at budget prices. Enjoy a complementary glass of wine or a soft drink whilst you browse. £5.

Contact details for listed venues: Alrewas Showground – Alrewas DE13 7DP. Tel: 07805 483396

Bader Hall - King Edward VI School & Leisure Centre, Upper St John St, Lichfield WS14 9DE Beacon Park – Lichfield WS13 6QZ. Tel: 01543 308869 Broads Travel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 412768 Burntwood Rugby Club – The Sportsway, Burntwood WS7 3PH. Tel: 01543 677166 Christian Fields - Eastern Ave, Lichfield WS13 7JU (meet in the top car park beyond the height restriction barrier).

Curborough Antiques & Craft Centre Watery Lane, Lichfield WS13 8ES Curborough Sprint Course – Lichfield WS13 8EJ. Tel: 01543 264280 Emporium Art Gallery - 32-34 Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: Tel: 01543 256624 Erasmus Darwin House - Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 262331 The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 The Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6LU. Tel: 01543 262223 Hindleys Bakery – 10 Tamworth St, Lichfield WS16 6JJ. Holy Cross Parish Hall – Upper St John St, Lichfield WS14 9EG. Tel: 01543 491802 Kings Bromley Show Field - Crawley Lane, Kings Bromley, Lichfield DE13 7JF. Tel: 01543 472441 The Kitchen Shop – 5 Market St, Lichfield WS13 6JX. Tel: 01543 268602 Lakeside Bistro - Beacon Park, Lichfield. Tel: 01543 308869 Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. Tel: 01543 306100 Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Heritage Centre - St Mary's Centre, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 255423 Lichfield Tourist Information Centre Castle Dyke, Lichfield WS13 6HR. Tel: 01543 412112 National Memorial Arboretum – Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792 333 Netherstowe House - Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6AY. Tel: 01543 254270 Recreation Ground – Forge Lane, Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield B74 3BE S & J Music - 23 Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PW. Tel: 01543 268909 St Chad’s Church - St Chad's Rd, Lichfield WS13 7ND. Tel: 01543 263670 St Michael’s Church Hall - St Michael Rd, Lichfield. Tel: 07788 552868 or 01543 251940 St Peter’s Church - The Avenue, Church Rd, Elford, Nr Tamworth B79 9DA Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 Staffordshire Regiment Museum Defence Medical Services, Lichfield WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434395 Uttoxeter Racecourse - Wood Lane, Uttoxeter ST14 8BD. Tel: 01889 562561 Wade Street Church Hall – Wade St, hfield WS13 6HL. Tel: 01543 262223

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 early 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. It’s like Venice off the A38!

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 noon - 3pm with five meats and fresh vegetables for £10 inc. sweet and coffee. Lunch is served Mon-Sat 12 noon 2.30pm with a full menu available every evening 5.30pm - 9pm.

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

Beer and entertainment The Swan has a superb selection of beers on draught such as Abbot, Pedigree, Black Sheep, and guest ales such as Timothy Taylor, Sarah Hughes ‘Dark Ruby’, Woody’s Shropshire Lass and Holden’s Black Country Special. 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 Junction Canalside eating at its best DE13 7DN Telephone 01283 790330 We are a dog friendly pub

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