Lich gaz nov 2013

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

November 2013 ISSUE 55

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

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November 2013 Lichfield

G azette contents

6

Netherstowe House Competition

12 Win tickets to the festive gift fair 31 Golden tickets 34 Dam Street 46 Tamworth Street 53 City view 63 Gazette Woman 70 What’s On/Dining Out

Editor’s Notes Hi Readers Eating in the UK in the 1950s* For those who are old enough to remember, here’s a list of just some of the modern staples that hadn’t made it to the table in the 1950’s. If the 50’s were a bit before you’re time, you might be surprised at how things have changed!

In the 1950’s pasta had not been invented (as far as the UK was concerned). Curry was a surname. A takeaway was a mathematical problem. A pizza was something to do with a leaning tower. Bananas and oranges only appeared at Christmas time. All crisps were plain; the only choice we had was whether to sprinkle on the salt that was included in a little paper packet. A Chinese ‘chippy’ was a foreign carpenter. Rice was a milk pudding, and never, ever, part of our main-course. A Big Mac was what we wore when it was raining. Brown bread was something only ‘poor’ people ate. Oil was for lubricating, fat was for cooking. Tea was made in a teapot using tea-leaves that were never green.

Coffee was Camp, and came in a bottle. Cubed sugar was regarded as posh. Only Heinz made beans. Fish didn't have fingers in those days. Eating raw fish was called poverty, not sushi. None of us had ever heard of yoghurt. Healthy food consisted of anything edible. People who didn't peel potatoes were regarded as lazy. Indian restaurants were only found in India. Cooking outside was called camping. Seaweed was not a recognised food (in England at least). ‘Kebab’ was not even a word never mind a food. Sugar enjoyed a far more positive press in those days, and was regarded as being ‘white gold’.

Prunes were medicinal. Surprisingly, muesli was readily available, it was called cattle feed. Pineapples came in chunks, in a tin; we had only ever seen a picture of a real one.

Water came out of the tap. If someone had suggested bottling it and charging more than petrol for it they would have become a laughing stock. The one thing that we never ever had on our table in the fifties...were elbows! * Thank you to the person who sent me this – you know who you are!

Yours truly, Paul Oakley. Editor

Cover by Carl Knibb

Win lunch for two at Netherstowe House page 6

contributors • • • •

Caz Jones Laura Bowcutt PG Mitchell Kate Gomez

• • • •

Joss Musg rove Knibb Robert Yardley Phil Preece John Crowe

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 78 Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GazetteNews

Lichfield Ladies donate to Aspergers group L

Kirsty Churchill, Clare Ellett, Lana Grant, Helen Hartshorn, Helen Macdonald (chair), Vanessa Young

ichfield Ladies Circle recently made a donation of £500 towards the Lichfield Aspergers’ Parents Support group. Asperger Syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and non-verbal communication, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests.

Tracey Guest, a member of Lichfield Ladies Circle said: “As a parent of a child with a diagnosis of Aspergers, I am delighted that Lichfield Ladies Circle is able to donate and support the work that this group offers. Aspergers can have such a huge impact on both the child and their families that their support, networking and information is invaluable.”

Lichfield Aspergers Parents Support Group is a small voluntary organisation for parents/guardians of children or young adults who have, or may be diagnosed with, Aspergers Syndrome or Autistic Spectrum Condition in Lichfield and the surrounding areas of South East Staffordshire. The group runs monthly sessions where parents can share their experiences of dealing with the various issues and services that impact on their children at different stages in their lives, listen to informal presentations from invited ASC professional services and organisations, and receive regular information from an emailing service Helen Hartsorn for LAPS added: “This donation means so much to us as a group. We plan to use the money to help build and design our new website so we can continue to support current parents and inform prospective families. Thank you very much Lichfield Ladies Circle.”

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

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

The Lichfield Aspergers Parent Support Group can be contacted on aspergers@bbdpl.co.uk The monthly sessions are held between 7.00pm 9.00pm on the second Monday of each month (except August) alternating between the Lichfield Guildhall and Charnwood Children’s Centre Page 5

GazetteNews

Lichfield Operatic Society presents Whistle Down The Wind

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rom the 12th to the 16th November, Lichfield Operatic Society is delighted to be one of the first in the area to be performing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s and Jim Steinman’s Whistle Down The Wind after its release for performance by amateur musical societies.

Made famous by the film starring Hayley Mills back in the 1960s, it tells the story of children who mistake an escaped murderer hiding in a barn where they play for Jesus Christ. This raises complex questions about faith and belief.

We see the story unfold through the eyes of children and their acceptance of this man who brings them hope, but also through the very different eyes of the adults who hunt him down.

With wonderful orchestrations, it features well known songs such as Whistle Down The Wind and No Matter What which was made famous by Boyzone.

Production Director Julie Mallaband said: “I am delighted to be directing this show for the Operatic Society. I am particularly thrilled to have both adults and children in the show and, having worked with the Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre for a number of years, I am thrilled to see such young talent joining us for this show. In addition we have been well supported by Theatrics Stage School yet again.”

Lichfield Operatic Society presents “Whistle Down The Wind” from Tuesday 12th to Saturday 16th November 2013 at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre at 7.30pm tickets £17.

Saturday matinee at 2.30pm tickets £13.

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New information for a very old structure

estled away on the hilltop near King Edward VI school stands a grade II listed building known as the Borrowcop Gazebo. A building has stood on the site since the late 1600’s, but the present gazebo dates from around 1804. It is an interesting old structure, but a lack of information on site has led people to wonder what the building was for and why it was built.

With the help of a £750 grant from the County Council’s Community Paths Initiative Fund, Lichfield City Council has now provided an interpretation panel next to the The Mayor and Mayoress of Lichfield, Bob and Eileen Awty, gazebo. This explains the history of view the new information board with local resident Les Ashley the building, and also the site itself and its association with a legend of ‘slain martyrs’ killed in battle.

One local resident Les Ashley, has very fond recollections of the area surrounding the gazebo and reminisced: “I was born in the city of Lichfield in Birmingham Road in 1933. I am proud to be a ‘Lichfeldian’. When my late brother and I were about seven and five years old my father took us up to the gazebo and etched our initials on one of the walls. This happened to many children whose parents used the walls to mark their initials, but having taken a look recently they have since been removed.

“Another time to remember Borrowcop Hill was when it was a great sledge run. It was quite long and during the savage winter in 1947 all the schools were closed because the radiator pipes had burst and transport could not get to the schools. So great times were had for school children who enjoyed some winter sports! At the foot of the hill was a pond and if you skidded you could end up in the frozen water. As the saying goes if only the gazebo could talk - well that’s another story.”

Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

WIN

LUNCH

FOR TWO PEOPLE AT NETHERSTOWE HOUSE

FIND MINSTER THE CAT! Win a Lunch for Two (Mon-Thurs) and enjoy the Netherstowe House experience. 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) Minster is a little rascal! True to form he has got lost again in this issue and we need your help to find him.

He might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page)

simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than 21st Nov 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).

Netherstowe House is a beautifully renovated Grade II Listed property and Fine Dining Restaurant. This boutique hotel has the elegance of a fine old country house, excellent service plus the contemporary conveniences of every modern luxury you could possibly desire.

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

Congratulations to Mrs J Hutton from Haymoor, Lichfield who spotted Minster on Page 56 of the October magazine.

Good luck!!

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LG NOV2013

GazetteNews

Spot the What!

This month the Bystander has decided to print a letter that we have received from one of our readers on the subject of HS2. Do you agree with his sentiments? Let us know your thoughts at gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk

HS2

Farmer David, John Whitehouse and Chris Pritchard

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ichfield Lions go to unusual and extreme lengths to raise funds for local charities! The annual Cow Pat Draw this year raised over £2000 for South Staffordshire Young Carers and other local charities, with the lucky winner receiving £100 and eight runners winning £10 each.

The Annual Cow Pat Draw was ahem ‘drawn’ on the 28 September. To enter the draw members of the public bought a ticket at £1 each (in fact over 2000 were bought over a couple of weekends in mid September). A paper plan of a chosen field is then divided by the number of tickets sold, with each ticket corresponding to a square.

Cows are released into the field and closely observed.

The first pat is marked and triangulated against the plan to identify the winning square and the runners up. The owner of the winning tickets were then informed and offered a choice of money or a pat!

The success of the event rests on the generosity of local people and the support of Shenstone Garden Centre and a network of local public houses that allowed the Lions access to their customers. The Lions would like to offer a big thank you to all those that participated, particularly Farmer David and of course Daisy.

If you would like to learn more about Lichfield and District Lions please contact Ross Ward, President at lichfieldlions@hotmail.co.uk

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 ailurophobia?

A. A fear of lillies.

B. A fear of cats.

C. A fear of illness.

The answer is B. A ailurophobia is a fear of cats.

Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

This fiasco is affecting all the hamlets throughout the country. People are losing their homes and the government is not prepared to pay for the properties or compensation.

We in Hanch will be overwhelmed with a work force of approx 100 and heavy machinery which will affect the buildings we call our homes.

I have worked all my life and I’m still working at my tender age, I pay high taxes and have just moved from the village of Alrewas to the hamlet of Hanch where I thought it would be peaceful.

How wrong one can be. The newspapers and all the media of Lichfield need to know that this train will not be of any benefit to this area......if you ride round in your car you will see how many signs that are throughout Staffordshire. It is the worst hit on the route of HS2.

Let me see the headlines ‘HS2 against the Hamlets of Staffordshire’ ...sounds like the knights and the roundheads.

Thank you for your time. Hope you can help in keeping the countryside for people and wild animals.

Name supplied.

Maple Hayes and Cassanova!

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t 8pm on Thursday 24th October the Deputy Editor of the Lichfield Gazette, Joss Musgrove Knibb, presented a talk to the Lichfield Civic Society on the History and Associations of Maple Hayes House.

Joss took the audience through 600 years at Maple Hayes, from the 1400’s to the present day. Like so many great houses in Lichfield, Maple Hayes has connections with some of the most fascinating individuals in our nation’s history, including Admiral Nelson, Lady Hamilton and even Cassanova!

The talk attracted one of the largest audiences recently seen.

Joss Musgrove Knibb

Page 9

GazetteNews

Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House

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etherstowe House have had a huge success entertaining the ladies with their very popular traditional afternoon teas so they thought it was long overdue that they put a little something together for the eclectic Lichfield gent and their very own 'Rat Pack'.

Designed for men wanting to relax and indulge, the new Gentlemen's Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House promises to provide the perfect midafternoon escape. Served in the exclusive and extravagant playpen of the city’s only vaulted cellar restaurant boasting gentlemen’s club-like surroundings - old wooden walls covered in historical pictures, memorabilia faded with age, unusual and authentic furniture, original pictures, news clippings and archive photographs – it’s a thoroughly manly affair, with steak and onion slice, ploughmans bites, chunky chips, homemade scotch egg, pickled onions, hunters pork pie and maple syrup popcorn.

As ever they will throw in as much tea as you can drink, but we also know you gents sometimes appreciate a bottled beverage so why not also add a round of their locally brewed beers from Burton Bridge Brewery located just ten miles from Netherstowe House. If that doesn’t do it for you, you can always try a large glass of one of their fine wines or prestige whiskies.

Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea is served between 1pm and 5pm, Monday to Sunday and is priced at £24.95. You can also add a locally brewed beer for £4.50.

To reserve your table for Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea at Netherstowe House call a member of their friendly Hospitality Team on 01543 254 270 or email reservations@netherstowehouse.com

Letter to Editor The following is an extract from a letter sent to the Lichfield Gazette.

I am writing to thank your readers for supporting the Big Collection weekend at Tesco in Lichfield on 4-6 October.

We were overwhelmed with the number of people, 7,000 across the UK, who volunteered to help us collect donations and raise a staggering £370,687 nationally and the money is still coming in.

If you were one of the enthusiastic volunteers who enjoyed the day, or saw how much fun people in fancy dress and blue wigs had collecting donations and you would like to get involved in other activities with Diabetes UK, we’d like to hear from you.

People interested in volunteering for Diabetes UK, should visit: www.diabetes.org.uk/Get_involved/Volunteer/ or email volunteering@diabetes.org.uk or contact Janet Alexander-Hall on 01922 514600.

Pete Shorrick Diabetes UK’s Regional Manager in the Midlands Page 10 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

The Sights and Sounds of Trench Life come to Staffordshire.

WWI trench system that offers one of the most authentic ‘Great War’ experiences in the UK is to open in Staffordshire this November.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum is the highly regarded and much-loved museum of the Staffords and Mercians. It holds nationally important collections of not just weapons, vehicles and medals but letters home from the front written by ordinary soldiers who travelled over to France during 1914-18.

This large archive of first-hand material has allowed the team at the museum to re-design the on-site trench system (that was already hugely popular) with the kind of attention to detail that only a military museum can capture.

This 500ft trench system contains ‘scrape’ holes, living quarters with interactive exhibits, gun positions, a first aid station and even a tunnel used during the period to undermine the enemy trenches that were often just a short way away.

Ammunition boxes are strewn around, sandbags line the walls, original signage points the way and the visitor is immersed in a professionally created soundscape that evokes the trenches of WWI France.

The museum is staffed by serving and ex-army personnel, and volunteers, who know the reality of military combat. This has allowed a soundscape to be created that truly reflects what many of our Grandfathers and Great-Grandfathers would have heard every day almost 100 years ago.

For instance, if you were being fired at by a sniper, you would hear the report of the gun very differently to how it’s usually portrayed in the movies and on TV. Rather than just hearing the weapon going off or rounds whining past, if a sniper has you in his sights, you will hear the passing round before you hear the round being fired. This is called ‘crack and thump’. The ‘crack’ is the sound of the round passing your ear and the thump is the rifle being fired in the distance. This strange noise is created because a bullet flies faster than the speed of sound.

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum is planning a series of fascinating events from August 2014 to commemorate WWI. There are also regular events taking place in the run up to the commemorations.

Night in the Trenches Saturday 23rd November One of the most popular events in the Museum’s calendar is ‘Night in the Trenches’ which will be taking place this year in the remarkable new trench system.

This is an opportunity to experience a soldier’s life in the trenches in WWI. Uniformed reenactors take you back to evoke the life lived and conditions experienced by our troops during the Great War. Guided tours take place from 4.30 – 7.45pm and pre booking is essential. Adults £6, all concessions and children under 16 £4. Family ticket £15. Good wheelchair access. Please ring 24 hours in advance for event confirmation.

Please go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com for further details.

WWI Carols in the Trenches Saturday 7th December Carols in the Trenches is an evocative re-enactment of the 1914 Christmas Truce. Come along to the Staffordshire Regiment Museum for an evening of Carols set in the Museum’s WWI trench system, concluded by a re-enactment of the Christmas Truce where British soldiers emerged from the trench to shake hands with their German counterparts who were dug in just yards away. A thoughtful, festive and uplifting evening. From 7-8.30pm Adults £3, all concessions and children under 16 £2, family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £6.

The museum is home to a team of brilliant volunteers (with both military and civilian backgrounds) who get involved in everything from gardening to helping with the archives and collections. If you have a few hours to spare and would like to join the volunteer team please contact the Museum on 01543 434394 or go to www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.co.uk The team have recently had their outstanding contribution recognised with a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for volunteers!

The Staffordshire Regiment Museum can be found at Whittington Barracks, Whittington, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS14 9PY. Tel: 01543 434394 www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com

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GazetteNews

Win Tickets to the Festive Gift Fair!

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oin in the fun as the fabulous Festive Gift Fair, the biggest and best Christmas Shopping Fair, returns to the NEC for four days from 21 – 24 November.

The run up to Christmas Day involves lots of planning and the hardest and often most time consuming part is buying presents.

There’s no need to be stuck for ideas, Festive Gift Fair makes it so easy.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll get into the Christmas spirit, and be caught up in the excitement of browsing round over 325 stalls hunting for your perfect gifts. When your bags are full, you can drop them off at the ‘Present Crèche’ and continue to shop, stop for a bite to eat and enjoy some great Christmas music by bands and choirs.

It’s no wonder this is one of the most popular events at the NEC! Eat, drink and be merry! Christmas entertaining is the time to indulge in tempting chocolates and delicious cheeses sample before you buy at the Festive Gift Fair.

For the women in your life - Mum, Wife, Sister, Aunt, Girlfriend, you’ll find a special thoughtful surprise they will love at the Festive Gift Fair For the men in your life - Chaps can be notoriously difficult to buy for but you’ll find Whisky, woollies, watches, clever gadgets and silly stocking fillers galore at Festive Gift Fair.

Set the scene for a magical Christmas - Dressing your table, your hall, your mantle-piece can all help make Christmas Day really special. Light lots of twinkling candles, use elegant glasses, colour coordinated linen… you’ll find lots of inspiration at Festive Gift Fair.

Find out for yourself why so many people come every year! The Festive Gift Fair opens 09.30 – 17.00 from Thursday 21 – Sunday 24 November at the NEC. Adult tickets from just £8.50 For more information on Exhibitors and Visiting the Fair, visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk.

Book by phone – The Ticket Factory on 0844 581 0808/0809 or Book online at www.theticketfactory.com

WIN WIN WIN! We’ve got ten pairs of tickets to give away to Lichfield Gazette readers in our Gift Fair Competition.

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

Q.

The Festive Gift Fair is taking place at ...

A. B. C.

The NIA St George’s Park The NEC

Just send your name, answer and contact details to Festive Gift Fair Competition PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ or email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date of Wednesday 13th November. One entry per household please. Duplicates will be disqualified.

Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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Small grants on offer

ichfield District Grants are on offer to community groups.

Council is inviting local groups and organisations to apply for a small grant by 29 November 2013.

Whether it is to help to fund a project, a festival or fete, or money to buy sport or play equipment, the district council has a pot of money to help local not-for-profit groups and organisations.

Through its Grant Aid scheme, Lichfield District Council is offering community and voluntary groups that are based in Lichfield District funding of up to £1,000.

Councillor Colin Greatorex, Cabinet Member for Community, Housing & Environmental Health, said: “We are once again pleased to offer groups that provide a service to the local community the chance to apply for a small grant.

“The grant could be used for anything, from £100 to buy materials for an art group through to £1,000 to help organise a village fete. So, if you have a project in need of a funding boost, and as long as you have a bank account in your group’s name, please apply for a small grant.”

Because the council has a limited amount of funding, it will be prioritising projects that contribute to one or more of its ambitions. These include: supporting people, shaping place, and boosting business. The council is reminding local groups and organisations that grants of up to £5,000 are also available through Grant Aid Plus.

This is the scheme that awards funding for projects which strongly impact on the council’s ambitions and that are aimed at people across the whole district.

To download a Grant Aid and Grant Aid Plus application pack, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/grantaid The deadline to apply is by 4pm on Friday 29 November 2013. The funding will be awarded in April 2014. To find out more, please call Stephen Lightfoot on 01543 308220 or email stephen.lightfoot@lichfielddc.gov.uk

Blooming Lichfield wins Silver Gilt at prestigious awards

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ollowing amazing first time success of achieving a ‘Silver Gilt’ award in 2012, the Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce again entered Lichfield into the Heart of England in Bloom competition for 2013. HoEiB is an Chamber President Richard Lewis receives the award from the President of Heart of initiative from the Royal Horticultural England in Bloom Society and is widely recognised as the standard bearer for such competitions.

The District and City Councils and other organisations and businesses confirmed their support for the entry and made every effort to ensure Lichfield was ‘Bloomin’ Lovely for the Judging Day on 4th July.

The Judges were escorted around the City by Chamber President Richard Lewis.

The tour included City centre streets and the Market Square where a Farmer’s Market was taking place. They also visited Beacon Park, Minster Pool and the Remembrance Gardens which were all looking magnificent. Other places of interest visited were the Christian Fields Nature Reserve, Netherstowe allotments, St John’s garden in the Cathedral Close & Darwin House Herb Garden. The judges were massively impressed by the effort put in by all concerned and awarded the city a Silver/Gilt Award for the second successive year.

The Awards were given over at a presentation ceremony at Drayton Manor on 12th September where Richard was accompanied at the event by the Mayor, Cllr Bob Awty, District Council Chairman Cllr David Leytham and his consort Mrs Jan Leytham-Gain who saw Richard receive the award from the president of Heart of England in Bloom.

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GazetteNews

Fab Lichfield Women's Group Celebrates First Anniversary

New Group for Older People in Burntwood, Chasetown and Chase Terrace

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ab Friends is a supportive personal development group for women which meets one morning a month at the beautiful Hawkesyard Hall just outside Lichfield. On 19 September, many of the 10 founder members of Lichfield Fab Friends linked hands – along with newer members and guests – to blow out the candle on a first birthday cake.

Fab Friends meetings are informal and all about connection, positivity and sharing. The group helps local women, many of them 'solopreneurs', to take time out to reflect on themselves and their businesses. Each month, there's a theme such as finding more joy in life, managing time with ease or creating a personal vision board. Talks are led either by an inspiring external speaker or by Dawn Petherick, the Lichfield Fab Friends network leader. Also a coach and healer, Dawn specialises in helping women boost their self-esteem and live the life of their dreams.

Members and visitors also get a chance to reflect on their recent successes and set goals for the coming month. Tea and pastries form an integral part of meetings, so there's time for chatting and more traditional networking before leaving reenergised for the month ahead.

Lichfield now has 16 members, who all had different reasons for joining. Some wanted to grow their businesses, others to find out how to achieve their wildest dreams. Yet others wanted to make new friends having recently relocated to the city. All have grown over the year, sometimes in unexpected ways.

Dawn explains: “In some of the women, the transformation is amazing and very self-evident. They look brighter and happier, their businesses are growing, they're becoming clearer on areas of their life where they were feeling stuck and often they've made good friendships.”

The Lichfield group contains three members who have won the Inspiring Member of the Month award. Lichfield is one of three Fab Friends groups across the country and this is given to members who are inspirational across the network and in their communities, often overcoming challenging issues to achieve their dreams.

The network held a national celebration day on 21 September in Birmingham.

Planned to coincide with the Lichfield anniversary, all proceeds went to the Happy House, the children's charity that the network supports in Kenya.

For more information, contact Dawn Petherick at dawn@dawnpetherick.com or on 07525 461 354.

Edna, Margaret and Nelly October 2013

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new day support service aimed at those who may be living with short term memory loss or dementia has been launched in the Burntwood area. Burntwood Live at Home’s new ‘Friday Focus Group’, runs from 10am to 4pm each Friday at the Old Mining College on Queen St Chasetown.

Scheme manager Sue Meehan told the Gazette: “Our original Wednesday Focus group is incredibly popular. Whilst members spend the day with us enjoying a range of activities, their relatives and carers are able to have some time to themselves. We are delighted that we can now extend this service and offer an additional group on a Friday.”

The Burntwood Live At Home Scheme is part of a national network of organisations supported by Methodist Homes. It provides a wide range of services to meet the needs of older people in the Burntwood area. The scheme was founded in 1990 and since then has grown considerably to include lunch clubs, interest groups, day trips and even annual holidays. It is open to members and non-members and has one sole aim – to enhance the quality of older people’s lives in the Burntwood, Chasetown and Chase Terrace areas.

The scheme is always looking for new volunteers to help run its services, in particular Volunteer Befrienders willing to visit an older person in their own home, and Volunteer Drivers, who are able to transport older people to and from the scheme’s services. For further information on the Friday Focus Group, or to find out more about volunteering with Burntwood Live at Home, please contact Sue Meehan on 01543 674 257.

Lichfield Fab Friends members.

Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Civic Reception for Lichfield Soroptimists

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I (Soroptimists International) Lichfield (UK) and Kaarst (Germany) joined forces for a fundraising weekend at the Kaarst-Total Festival in Germany that ran from the 31st August – 1st September this year.

As the clubs had already exchanged social visits with each other, this trip also had a practical side, to raise money for a girls' school in Kabul, Afghanistan. The funds raised contribute to the running of a homework club at the school to enable and assist the girls in completing their schoolwork. One of the Soroptimists from Kaarst has worked at the school and travels there each year to review progress.

10 Lichfield Soroptimists travelled to Kaarst in Germany and were met by their hosts at Dusseldorf Airport. After refreshments, they attended a civic reception by the Mayor of Kaarst, Franz-Josef Moorman who welcomed them and gave a potted history of Kaarst past and present.

Included in their fundraising activities was the Ping Pong Tombola (a family favourite the club undertake annually at the Lichfield Festival Market). The weekend was a huge success with Lichfield Soroptimists raising over ÂŁ450 for this worthy cause. For more information on Soroptimist International visit our website www.sigbi.org/lichfield.

The photo shows Soroptimists from both Clubs on the steps of the Town Hall in Kaarst Page 15

Nicky Snazell’s Pain Relief Clinic at Wolseley Bridge has increased its MBST technology for the treatment of osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, bone fractures, spinal discs and sports injuries to tendons and ligaments. It now has two of the three latest Open 700 systems available in the UK. MBST is a proven, safe derivative of MRI scanning technology. Developed in Germany, it has been highly successful across Germany and Austria with over 290 treatment centres and over 150 Orthopaedic Consultants trusting and using MBST on a daily basis. Over 150,000 patients have been treated and there have been zero reported side effects, making it risk free.

MBST is unique in its ability to regrow cartilage, bone and heal spinal discs, tendons and ligaments. This highly complex technology is able to saturate targeted body tissue with energy, stimulating the cells to grow. A recent 10 year study of over 4,500 patients has proven its ability to reduce pain, reduce frequency of pain and improve mobility. It not only treats the symptoms, but also gets to the very heart of the problem, by treating the cause itself.

This month’s story is about a patient with a broken arm who was briefly visiting from Spain. The patient’s time constraints prevented us from providing more than 2/3 of the treatment

Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

required, so it wasn’t ideal.

The heat in Spain was causing non-stop inching a getting on with a normal life was proving difficult wearing the cast, made worse by considerable non-stop pain.

Three weeks after returning to Spain, the patient went into hospital for check up and the doctors were amazed that the bone had healed so well and so quickly, enabling the cast to be removed three weeks early. Needless to say, the patient was absolutely delighted that life had returned to itch-free normality. What’s more the pain had reduced by almost 90% to the odd twinge.

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GazetteNews

Footsteps Autumn Fair O

n a rainy Saturday in October Footsteps Nursery on Walsall Road had their first Autumn Fair; a chance for children and parents to visit the nursery and raise money for Save the Children.

Along with face painting, food and a tombola there were lots of other fun activities all based around the creepy-crawly “Mini Beast” theme plus a fancy dress competition and Bug hunt (where children went to explore and find bugs hidden in the forest school garden) Carrie from Rent-a-Beast was on hand with different types of bugs including millipedes, stick insects and even a tarantula! The parents and children got to handle the bugs whilst Carrie told them some interesting facts about the creatures in her care.

If you are looking for nursery/pre-school education for under-fives just give Footsteps a call. Karen or one of the team will be happy to arrange a tour. Contact information and more details can be found at www.footstepsnurseries.co.uk

S

South Staffordshire College hosts unique conference for women.

outh Staffordshire College has played host to a conference at its Lichfield Campus aimed at attracting more women into male dominated industries.

Organised in partnership with the Soroptimists, Staffordshire University and Entrust STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) the Skirting Science and Technology conference welcomed Year 9 girls from five local schools to listen to talks from young women with careers in Science and Technology.

The Conference was aimed at inspiring young girls to explore and pursue careers in these sectors, with speakers focusing on forensic science, computer game design and electronic engineering.

In an increasingly complex world connected by the internet and social media, there are more jobs created and available every day in science and technology based industries than in any other, and STEM graduates are amongst the most likely to find work in their chosen industry. The number of women working in these industries is dwarfed by the number of men, accounting for only six per cent of engineers and three per cent of engineering technicians in the whole of the United Kingdom.

The students were split into three groups and took part in five activities; A session with Smallpiece Trust, which involved making a speaker out of polystyrene; A university forensics lab where students analysed four tubs of sand to ascertain which tub came from a crime scene; A computer games workshop where students had to design a short videogame sequence and a robotic laboratory and a teambuilding exercise where students had to work together to put up a tent.

It is hoped that the Skirting Science and Technology conference will encourage more girls to choose STEM subjects at GCSE and will change their attitudes towards science and engineering as career choices, for example one student said that the workshop “gave her the confidence to pursue her real interests.”

Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

I

Join a St Giles Hospice Fundraising Trek in 2014!

ntrepid adventurers are being offered the chance to tackle a challenge they will never forget – a choice of three exhilarating treks in aid of leading local charity St Giles Hospice.

St Giles Hospice is launching its Trek Calendar for 2014 during an Open Day on Wednesday 13th November at the St Giles Centre in Fisherwick Road, Whittington, with two sessions being held at 2pm and 7pm.

Visitors will be able to find out about three amazing adventures being organised next year to raise much-needed funds for St Giles Hospice’s specialist care for local people living with cancer and other serious illnesses. These adventures include a: • Five-day trek to the ‘lost city’ of Petra in Jordan – October 2014 • Ten-day Vietnam trek – October 2015 • Three Peaks Challenge: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon – May/June 2014 Details of each of the treks will be outlined at the open sessions on Wednesday 13th November, with a presentation and a question and answer session, along with the opportunity to meet walkers who have completed previous St Giles treks. Previous expeditions which have raised tens of thousands of pounds for St Giles include successful treks along the Great Wall of China and the Inca Trek through the Peruvian Andes. Further details on the trek and the Open Day Sessions are available by calling Jenni Dawson on 01543 434542 or by emailing jenni.dawson@st-gileshospice.org.uk.

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GazetteNews

T

L2F Festival Market Great Success

he Lichfield Festival of Folk Christmas Market, held at the Guildhall’s Guildroom on Saturday 26th October proved a great success. Morris dancers, mummers and ‘Jack in the Green’ entertained the shoppers at this quality Craft Market and added a festive edge to a sunny day.

Photo by Robert Yardley

Netherstowe House Awarded AA Rosette For Culinary Excellence

F

urther to being voted 'Restaurant of the Year' at the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards and being recommended by the latest Michelin Guide, Netherstowe House in Lichfield has been honoured again with a prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence.

AA Rosettes are awarded by AA Hotel and Restaurant Inspectors in recognition of highquality cooking and the overall dining experience.

These selected restaurants achieve standards Jennie Moseley - Hospitality Manager, Teresa Herriman - HR that stand out in their local area by preparing food Manager, Steve Garland - Head Chef, Ben Heathcote - Proprietor, Betty Bialasinska - General Manager, Kamila Bialasinska - Head with care, understanding and skill, using good Waitress quality ingredients.

Proprietor, Ben Heathcote commented that: "At Netherstowe House our core purpose is to make people happy. We therefore genuinely put a premium on, and take great joy from, all our guests being truly nourished and experiencing sincere hospitality. This award is testament to the passion of our fantastic team and we look forward to continuing to offer value and excellence in the most inclusive, accessible and genuine way possible by nurturing a great dining experience where the welcome feels loving and the cuisine is delicious."

The exquisite food and tranquil surroundings of Netherstowe House in Lichfield make it a must-see dining and accommodation destination at any time of year but with evergreen floral displays from the garden, a genial atmosphere and inspired menus it is a unique retreat that captures the very essence of Christmas.

Commencing in early December, the award winning hotel and restaurant celebrates yuletide in customary fashion by offering the best seasonal cuisine. Whether you are looking to add a touch of glamour to your Christmas party or just a festive evening out, you are guaranteed to experience the best seasonal cuisine and the warmest hospitality that comes from being their valued guest.

You can enjoy festive lunch, dinner or afternoon tea at Netherstowe House or celebrate Christmas Day in the award winning restaurant.

They cannot promise you a white Christmas but if you love a traditional festive season and service with a relaxed, caring style we can't think of anywhere better for you to spend it.

To celebrate in style with Netherstowe House's Christmas Party Menu priced at just £19.95 per person or to purchase one of their popular Christmas Gift Vouchers call 01543 254 270 or email reception@netherstowehouse.com or visit www.netherstowehouse.com for more details.

Contractors start work on new Premier Inn

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he arrival of a new 79-bedroom Premier Inn hotel and restaurant in Lichfield has come one step closer as contractors Lindum Construction officially start work on site to deliver the new city centre hotel. Lindum plan to complete the work by summer 2014.

The new Premier Inn hotel and restaurant is part of the £14 million redevelopment of Friary Outer. The first phase of the regeneration scheme will provide 54 supported apartments for Bromford residents, six apartments that are ‘affordable for sale’ under shared ownership with Bromford Homes, and a new car park and public toilets that will be owned and run by Lichfield District Council.

Gavin Jones, for S Harrison, said: “We had initially been working with Travelodge, but following uncertainty over its future growth plans, we teamed up with Premier Inn to deliver a larger hotel on Swan Road. As well as boosting the city’s tourism industry, the new hotel will provide around 30 new full and parttime jobs. We’re delighted to have Lindum on board as our construction partner.”

Lichfield District Council has welcomed the appointment and start of work on site. Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of the Council, commented: “This is great news for the city. A new hotel with such a strong brand in a prime location will attract even more visitors to Lichfield, which will in turn boost the local economy. We’re also looking forward to launching the new car park soon, as we know that traders and visitors alike are keen to see the 400-space car park open.”

Please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/friaryouter to find out more about the development.

David Clancy Mark Greasby John Bates David Leytham Carl Allen Neil Coote

Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Probably the liveliest and most exciting pub in Lichfield, The Feathers in Beacon Street (voted Best Community Pub 2013) has something to offer everyone. It’s a family pub with great food, it’s a live music venue and it’s a great pub to have a beer with hosts Mike and Tracey.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE…LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND NIGHT – FAMILY FRIENDLY & more…

Absolutely Fantastic News!

GREAT FOOD – “BETTER FOR LONGER” BAR SNACKS & MEALS - As a result of the continued support of our customers we are thrilled to announce that we have now extended our Kitchen Hours : Mon-Wed lunch 12 - 3 & evening 5.30 – 9; Thurs 12 – 9; Fri/Sat 12 – 10; Sun 12 – 6.

We now have two top chefs Justin & Steve cooking an awesome range of fresh home-made food.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL (NEW) – live music that features soloists, duos and trios every Thursday from 8.30pm WEBCAST – coming soon – “they said it couldn’t be done” streaming live music

podcasts to your home computer from our pub - next best thing to being there. (All you need is the great draught beer piped in!).

REGULAR FEATURES – Open Mic Night (Tuesdays); Poker Club (Wednesday); Family Sunday Roast.

ALL THE SPORT – all the time (you’d better believe it!)

CHRISTMAS IS GOING TO BE GREAT! – Christmas party bookings now being taken - Christmas fayre is available 1 24 December (Book early for Christmas Day – menu available at bar or website) NEW YEAR’S EVE – Limited availability – if you loved last year’s you won’t be disappointed – live band/buffet only £10 – tickets now on sale.

LIVE MUSIC IN NOVEMBER Fri 01 – Travelling Pilbury’s Fri 08 – All Out the Band Fri 15 – 7th Son Fri 22 – Trip Fri 29 – Mosquito Drive

Sat 02 – Quo Motion Sat 09 - The Quik Sat 16 – Radio Mary Sat 23 – Born Again Beatles Sat 30 – Ain’t No Disco

The Feathers Inn, Beacon Street, Lichfield WS13 7BA Tel:01543 417029 Website:www.feathersinn.co.uk email: thefeathersinn@btconnect.com Twitter – Facebook – “Feathers Inn Lichfield”

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GazetteNews

A

Back to the ‘dark, satanic mills’, Minister?

new bill which comes into force on October 1st; “Will place employees back in the same situation last faced by workers in the Victorian era” says personal injury lawyer, Adam Penn from Ansons Solicitors.

The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 has created a great deal of controversy as it wipes away over 100 years of legislation that protects employees in the workplace from being injured.

From October, employers will only be liable for accidents at work where the employee can prove that they had been negligent. In other words, the employee will have to provide evidence, often from experts, that apparatus was faulty or that safety procedures were not followed.

Adam Penn, who regularly advises people who have been injured at work, asks clients to: “Try and gather as much information as possible at the time. This could include contact details of potential witnesses, details of apparatus or machinery, photographs and documentary evidence.”

Getting the right legal representative is vital too, as the onus is now on you to prove your case. A good lawyer will be able to help investigate your accident and put you in touch with experts to support the evidence you will need to put forward your claim.

If an accident does happen, seeking legal advice as soon as possible might make all the difference to getting the compensation you deserve.

Burntwood Lions’ Christmas and Gift Fair.

B

urntwood Lions are making final preparations for their eleventh Annual Christmas Craft and Gift Fair which takes place on Saturday 16th November at Burntwood Memorial Hall, Rugeley Road, Burntwood, WS7 9BE. This Fair is so successful that it has now become a regular for many crafters due to the number of visitors that attend, and the pleasure they get from attending one of the best Craft and Gift Fairs in South Staffordshire.

Last year over 600 visitors attended the Fair to browse the wonderful array of crafts and gifts and make purchases of special gifts for Christmas, birthdays, weddings, new babies or some other special occasion.

This year there will be well over 50 stalls, again with a wide variety of products. These include hand-made cards, jewellery, cosmetics, textiles, handbags, hats and scarves, seasonal decorations, children’s toys, teddies, paintings, candles, craft supplies, bird boxes, hedgehog houses, preserves, retro sweets, and lots more.

The Erasmus Darwin Jazz Band will be entertaining visitors between 11am and 1 pm. They are back by popular demand following their second attendance last year. For the children and young at heart there also will be a face painter.

Doors open from 10.00am - 3.00pm. Admission is £1 for adults and children under 12 are free. Delicious food and snacks will be available to consume in the seated cafe area.

Proceeds from this event will fund the Santa Special for over 200 disabled and disadvantaged children at Chasewater Railway on November 30th. During the Santa Special the children have a wonderful morning where they can have their faces painted, ride on the train, see Santa and receive presents, be entertained by the balloon model maker and marionettes and finally have lunch. (This event is by invitation only) For further details ring Lion Cindy on 01543 671949.

Catherine Hilditch and Irene Elliott from Finishing Touches

Cynthia Carthy with her Jewellery and Scarves Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

• Victoria’s Speciality Foods

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GazetteNews

Chairman’s Charity L

Wine Tasting

ichfield District Council’s Chairman hosted a wine tasting evening at W o r t h Brothers Wines on Thursday 3rd October 2013 to raise money for his two Jan Leytham-Gain, Brian Lewis, Cllr Brian Leytham, chosen host Richard Worth and Michael Fabricant MP charities.

Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, welcomed 44 guests to his latest event to raise funds for Lichfield Young Carers and Lichfield Arthritis Care.

The evening, held at Lichfield’s Worth Brothers Wines on Beacon Street, included sampling a selection on nine wines, with the opportunity to buy favourite wines at the end of the evening.

Guests included Michael Fabricant MP, civic dignitaries from across Staffordshire, and friends of the Chairman.

Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “We had a lovely evening tasting excellent wine and enjoying good company. I would like to thank everyone that attended, helping to support two worthwhile local charities.”

More than £350 was made on the night for Lichfield Young Carers and Lichfield Arthritis Care.

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Lichfield Arts ticket giveaway

ichfield Arts celebrates its 40th birthday next year and yet many people in Lichfield and the district are not aware of the work carried out by this charitable organisation. Long-term residents may remember Lichfield Arts Centre based in the Old Post Office on Bird Street (now the site of Ego and some rather expensive apartments). Since its closure and subsequent demolition, Lichfield Arts has been somewhat “underground” but has continued to exist, focussing on promoting concerts in the Lichfield Guildhall and organising a variety of festivals each year including Fuse.

This is your chance to get something for nothing. If you are not already on the Lichfield Arts customer database, you are eligible for two offers: • Two tickets for the price of one for any concert in the current Autumn programme (subject to availability).

• When you take up the first offer, your name goes into a draw to win another two tickets ABSOLUTLEY FREE!* Details of all concerts are on www.lichfieldarts.org.uk To claim your two-for-one tickets and enter the draw, send an email to dave.simcox@lichfieldarts.org.uk specifying the concert you’d like to attend. * For a concert specified by Lichfield Arts

Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Are you sitting comfortably?

D

o you have difficulty getting in or out of your chair or find that you can’t get comfortable? If so, a riser recliner chair may help. If you are spending much of the day in your chair it may also help with some medical conditions.

All riser recliners work on a similar principle. You press a button and a motor slowly raises you to help you stand. To sit down, the action is reversed – position yourself in the raised seat, press a button and the chair gently lowers.

The reclining action of the chair lets you put your feet up. By pressing the button, you will be able to alter the angle of the back of the chair and the footrest, to find the most comfortable position. This may also help to relieve pressure on the lower back and to align the spine correctly. It may help to expand lung capacity and ease breathing. Raising the feet and legs can help to improve circulation.

Ableworld have the largest selection of riser recliner chairs, and are also proud to offer excellent customer service and sound advice on the right chair for you. You can try out our chairs in a relaxed environment and without any pressure. We are easy to find, just two minutes off the A38 and with ample free parking right outside the door.

For our customers who are unable to get to our showroom we offer a home demonstration service. This is completely free of charge and without obligation. Please call us for further information.

Ableworld Second Avenue Centrum 100 Burton upon Trent DE14 2WF (Near to Morrisons) Tel 01283 546867

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Eden Gallery Fine Art - Framing

Alister Colley : Sunday Sunrise

Sam Toft : Rebel without a cause

Lichfield South is new home for Voyage Care A

s part of its on-going expansion plans, Voyage Care, the UK’s largest provider of support for people with learning disabilities, has relocated its head office to Lichfield South.

The company, which employs more than 7,000 people across the UK, has leased a 15,410 sq ft building on the campus-style business park.

Formerly based in three separate premises in Lichfield and Cannock, the new head office will enable Voyage to bring its senior management team and administrative functions together under one roof.

The stylish offices, which are decorated with large canvasses featuring images of people supported by the company, were officially opened by Kevin Roberts and some of the people who attend a nearby Voyage Care day service.

The Hexagon Centre Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre Watery Lane, Lichfield WS13 8ES www.edenartandframing.co.uk eden.smith15@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 01543 268393

David Smith - County Councillor, David Leytham - Chairman of Lichfield District Council, Jan Leytham-Gain and Kevin Roberts.

Page 26 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GazetteFeature

John Short & Son -

A proud tradition stretching back nearly 150 years S

ince 1866 John Short & Son has been located at 3 High Street, Chasetown in the heart of Staffordshire. The premises were originally used by a butchering firm. In the garage the hooks can still be seen where the carcasses were lifted, and occasionally the plasterwork shows signs of salt penetration.

Originally known as ‘W F Morgan’, the name was changed in the early 1930s, when Miss Alice Morgan married John (known as ‘Jack’) Short.

The business was one of the first in the area to be connected by telephone. The number was ‘Brownhills 4’ – a far cry from the 11-digit numbers we are used to today.

The company grew, supplementing funeral work with a thriving taxi business: taking local folk on holiday to Rhyl and other parts of North Wales; to hospital (many to North Staffordshire where the TB Sanatoriums were located); and to the maternity hospitals at Walsall (Sister Dora) and Lichfield (Victoria Hospital). Wedding hire was also undertaken when motorised vehicles were introduced, and many families would literally call

on the Shorts for ‘Hatches, Matches and Despatches’.

Prior to World War 2 and before motorised vehicles were the norm, John Short and Son had a team of black Belgium horses which were stabled in a large field behind the business premises (now a housing estate).

The horses were sold to a firm in Coventry, together with the harness and equipment, and sadly were killed during the worst of the bombing in Coventry.

Built an ambulance Jack Short was an accomplished engineer.

He converted a Daimler limousine into a hearse using original glass from an old horse-drawn hearse. He also built an

(Front) Mary and John Short with daughters Felicity and Catherine

ambulance for the local miners’ welfare.

After the second-world- war, Maurice Short took over the running of the business from his father.

In January 1946 he married Beryl Cotton, a girl from Cheltenham whom he had met while stationed at Fradley, near Lichfield. Their son John, the present owner of the business, was born in December of that year.

The wood for the coffins at that time was supplied in rough-sawn sets and much midnight

(L to R) Mary Short with Maurice and Beryl Short in 1973 Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

John Short (left) with Grandparents Jack and Alice in early 1950’s

GazetteFeature oil was spent in handproducing elm and oak coffins, each one custom made. How did they find the time?

The interest in horses continued, with John Short representing Staffordshire in show jumping competitions through the 1960s and 1970s. Maurice continued his love of horses and took part in many horse driving events up to his death in 1980 at the age of 58. Maurice’s widow Beryl passed away in 2009 aged 96.

Since 1980 the business has been owned and run

by John Short and his wife Mary, who are both very proud of their independent family business which has been part of the Chasetown and surrounding communities for over 147 years. Horses have given way to a smart fleet of Mercedes and Daimler hearses and limousines, now carrying out in excess of 400 funerals each year.

Over the last 25 years the changes seen in the funeral business are huge, an example being the rise of the multi-national corporations. Also, clients are so much more aware of the options available and are far more knowledgeable. To pre-pay for a funeral today is quite the norm, it is considered sensible and far-sighted.

John Short & Son are triple award winning agents for Golden Charter Funeral Plans.

John and Mary’s elder daughter Catherine (31) joined the company in 2009 and is the sixth generation of the family to take on the mantle of this proud, independent business.

Who knows what the next 147 years may bring?

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GazetteNews

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Raise Money For We Love Lichfield

f you haven’t realised, we at the Lichfield Gazette love Lichfield and its district and are proud to be supporters of the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’.

Launched in 2011, the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’ considers applications from local groups across the District in need twice a year. Companies and individuals are welcomed to donate or fund-raise for the Fund. All money is invested through a permanent endowment fund registered by charity the Staffordshire Community Foundation on behalf of ‘We Love Lichfield’ in line with charity commission guidelines. The interest and dividends earned on the invested money is then distributed by the 'We Love Lichfield Fund' as small grants across the district. The beauty of this model is that it will provide a source of on-going funding that can be used for many years to come. The fund aims to raise £500,000 by April 2016, which would mean up to £25,000 could be given away every year. For more information visit: www.welovelichfield.com Arthur Price CEO Simon Price is a patron of the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’ and loves the District so much that during the month of November for every purchase of £100 or over at the Arthur Price Factory Shop on Britannia Way, Lichfield he will be giving the ‘We Love Lichfield Fund’ £10. So if you want to plan the Christmas shopping early, find a gift for a loved one or feel the urge to treat yourself. Don't forget to that if you buy during November you are also helping a fantastic local cause.

Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GazetteNews

Respect and Remember

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he Royal British Legion Women’s Section is a membership organisation for women which provides care and support to the Serving and ex-Service community. For over 90 years, their welfare schemes have helped thousands of men, women and children within the Armed Forces community who are in financial hardship or in need of extra support. The RBLWS welfare services range from educational sponsorship and annuities to family welfare breaks and are available to the entire Armed Forces family; from service personnel and veterans to military spouses and children.

For more information, please visit: www.rblws.org.uk To support the work of the RBLWS Arthur Price has created the Remember range of gifts including an ipad cover, two umbrellas, a tote bag, journal book and a china mug. The range has been designed by Laurence LlewelynBowen and proceeds of the sales will go to the Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion.

Simon Price, Arthur Price CEO said: “I’m humbled to be part of this project. The work done by our Servicemen and

Women deserves credit, admiration and support and I hope that this new gift range will help contribute to the lives of these brave people via an amazing organisation, the Royal British Legion Women’s Section.

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen who designed the range said: “I’ve always been a great supporter of our armed forces and the work of the Royal British Legion Women’s Section is fantastic and I’m delighted that my new designs will be bringing not just a smile but financial gain for this worthwhile organisation.”

Anthony Beattie, National Secretary of RBLWS said: “I’d like to thank Arthur Price and Laurence for their passion and support, and for creating this amazing range of wonderful gifts to help our organisation to both raise awareness and contribute financially to our worthwhile cause.”

For more information on Arthur Price visit www.arthurprice.com or pop into the Arthur Price Factory Shop, Britannia Way, Lichfield for discounts of up to 70%.

Golden Tickets

Lichfield Gazette has teamed up with local cutlery and gift designer Arthur Price to create yet another amazing offer.

J

ust like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, inside ten of this November’s edition of the Lichfield Gazette is a golden ticket worth £199. Flick through the pages now and if you can see a sparkle of the gold, you have won an Arthur Price Invitation cutlery set worth £199.

The special edition Invitation cutlery set is for 6 place settings, is made of 18/10 stainless steel, is dishwasher safe and as with all Arthur Price cutlery comes with a 50 year guarantee.

Stylish and contemporary, the Invitation design is perfect for that special occasion or just a TV dinner on your lap This is a genuine opportunity and no purchase is necessary. The 10 winners will be notified and verified and no cash alternative is available.

The Editor’s decision is final.

Page 31

Page 32 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Remembrance Sunday Parade and Commemorations O

nce again the City of Lichfield Branch of the Royal British Legion will be running a Remembrance Parade, to be followed by a service at the Cathedral on Sunday 10th November 2013.

The parade will form up at approx 9.30 in the University car park, and at 9.40 will march down Bird Street and The Close. It will be joined by the Civic Procession at the Cathedral, where a service of remembrance takes place.

At 10.45 the procession leaves the Cathedral and moves on to the Garden of Remembrance where at 11am the wreath laying and Act of Remembrance will take place at the War Memorial.

The parade is always a stirring sight with members of the Royal British Legion City of Lichfield Branch, Veterans Associations, Mayor, Councillors and other Civic Dignitaries, The Prison Service, St John’s Ambulance, Army Cadets, RAF Cadets, Lichfield Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Guides and Adventure Scouts all taking part. Members of the public who wish to march in the parade are also welcome.

On the following day, the 11th of November at 11am, members of the Royal British Legion also perform an Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial.

The Parade 2012.

Lichfield’s Got Talent!

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he team behind Lichfield’s Got Talent 2014 have announced that auditions will take place in January and February next year. Call-backs, heats and the Lichfield’s Got Talent Final will then follow on in March.

Lichfield Bower Queen Savannah Bennet, Deputy Bower Queen Charlotte Aspley, Rachel Prosser and Su Lindsey are organising this event, and are keen to meet local people of any age and with any talent! All are welcome.

Auditions will be held at the George IV Pub in Lichfield with the final taking place at the Guildhall. The Closing date for applications is early January.

Funds raised at this event will support local charities including the Lichfield Greenhill Bower, Queens Croft School, Live Life Then Give Life and the Project Trust.

Application details to be released shortly.

Page 33

GazetteDam Street Feature

MAD about

Dam Street WIN WIN WIN £50 Dam Street Christmas Competition

All the answers to the questions can be found within this 2 page feature. Win £50 to be spent at any of the businesses within the Dam Street feature.

Please either complete and cut out this entry form or write your answers on a post card or on the back of a sealed envelope and send to Gazette Magazines, Dam Street Competition, P O Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Don’t forget to include your name and full postal address.

Entries must be received by Thursday 21 November 2013.

The Editor’s decision is final and the winner will be announced in the December issue of the magazine.

Dam Street Competition

2 Where is Naomi doing a beauty job?

3 The best afternoon tea here?

4 Local butchers supply this business?

5 Affordable individuality where?

6 As a guest, you’ll be made so welcome here?

7 The Legal Eagles are here?

Address:

8 Who’s at 10 Dam Street?

9 Now stockists of knitting wool where?

Page 34 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

15 - 17 Dam Street, Lichfield

Open 7 days a week

Sunday carvery All roast meats purchased from local butcher Price £8.45 (Table reservations recommended) Licensed Premises 01543 257520

Minster Coffee Shop 11 Dam Street, Lichfield

1 Where has Paul Rackham just started working?

Name:

Tel No:

Causeway

Afternoon Teas our Speciality Tea for 1 £6.50 Tea for 2 £11.99 Open Tues - Sat 10am. Sun 11am

01543 410863

The Little Curio Shop Awaiting you at 10 Dam Street is a little shop with a lot to offer. With antiques, jewellery and vintage items The Little Curio Shop is an Aladdin’s Cave with so much to offer. Treasures await and there’s so much to see, so come and browse, you will be amazed at what you will find. Hundreds of fascinating items to view.

Tales Press Tales Press in Dam Street is one of Lichfield’s most established and well-loved shops with the most beautiful selections of wools, needlework supplies, and art and craft materials available. Tales Press also offers a picture framing service. Some Airfix models are stocked so as you can see a visit to this shop is essential. Good Service is sometimes called Old Fashioned Service, but attentive, expert and helpful service is always to be found at Tales Press.

GazetteDam Street Feature Dam Fine Barbers Celebrate their 1st Anniversary! Congratulations to Dam Fine Barbers in Dam Street who celebrate their first birthday. They would like to thank all of their customers who have supported them over the past year. They’ve also had a new member of staff, Paul Rackham, who has joined them recently, and he’s an up and coming new barber. After starting the business on 31st October 2012, the first year has been amazing. They specialise in all traditional barbering from haircuts to authentic cut-throat shaves.

Vouchers are available.

Keelys Keelys LLP Solicitors at 28 Dam Street offers legal services to both business and personal clients including corporate work, employment issues and property requirements for business and litigation.

It operates a specialist department dealing with Residential Conveyancing, Wills, Probate and Tax Planning and Divorce and Family matters including dealing with complex issues such as division of property and business assets on divorce.

The Minster Coffee Shop Right in the heart of Dam Street, you’ll find the charming Minster Coffee Shop. Their speciality is Afternoon Teas with beautiful scones, homemade cakes and superb sandwiches. Tea for one is £6.50 and tea for two is £11.99. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00am and on Sundays from 11.00am.

Dame Oliver’s Dame Oliver’s continues to go from strength to strength. The owner, Louise, has sourced some fantastic ranges of Autumn/Winter clothing this season. There are some exciting new labels, and of course, regular favourites like Adini, Phool, Gringo and Angel Circle, and prices to suit all pockets. Dame Oliver’s has the largest selection of hats and fascinators in the area – and for that really special occasion they can be made to order. Louise and her staff are very happy to advise on the most suitable styles and colours.

The Bogey Hole The Bogey Hole at 2123 Dam Street is a four star B & B expertly run by Pauline Duval. It is situated in a tasteful, large Grade II listed house with a beautiful walled garden which overlooks the Cathedral. The house is said to have a friendly ghost. We don’t know if he joins you for continental breakfast, but the B & B is a favourite ‘haunt’ for out of town visitors and business people. Tel: 01543 264 303.

The Causeway For one of the best Sunday carveries around, in lovely friendly surroundings, look no further than The Causeway in Dam Street, right in the heart of Lichfield, just a short walk from the Cathedral. Supplied by a local butcher, choose from beef, pork, turkey or ham.

Silks incorporating Beauty at Silks This renowned hairdresser, Silks at 13 Dam Street, continues to offer the finest skills in all aspects of hairstyling, and now have been joined by Naomi, offering Beauty at Silks. Relax your mind, reward your body and revive your senses. Treatments include facials, massage, holistic treatments, nails, eye enhancements and much more. Gift vouchers are available.

Why not ring 07806 538470 and make an appointment.

Friendly 4 Star Bed and Breakfast

****

Situated in the Heart of the City near Minster Pool.

Pauline Duval, The Bogey Hole, 21/23 Dam Street Lichfield WS13 6AE

01543 264303

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GazetteFeature

Easy Living Mobility

O

ur new store at 12 City Arcade Lichfield is the latest in an expansion programme which will see a further 5 stores opened by the end of 2014.

With the increasing advance in life expectancy more and more people are feeling the need to invest in 'easy living' aids from mobility scooters to jar openers and everything in between.

At Easy Living Mobility we offer a very wide range of products from stock including rise & recline chairs, fireside chairs, pavement & road scooters, Stairlifts, beds, walking aids, foot ware and much much more.

Based in Stone Staffs our engineering department coordinate customer deliveries and arrange the survey and installation of stairlifts,

Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

bath-lifts and complete bathroom/kitchen refits.

We are seeing an ever increasing demand for bathroom adaptations as awareness of just what is available is becoming more widely known. On display in the Lichfield store is an example of an inexpensive 'walk-in' shower unit which would enhance any home.

Having mobility issues is not always easy to cope with and that is why here at Easy Living Mobility we always extend a warm and friendly welcome to all our prospective and regular customers. We really are here to help and find the right solution for your particular need.

There is much said these days about Internet shopping and whilst it certainly

does have its place we believe that our customers much prefer to see, touch and if suitable, try and test the item they are interested in buying. Only then can they be sure it's the right product solution for their needs.

We therefore offer all of our customers the opportunity to see the product they have chosen demonstrated in their own home before purchasing. For example a chair might look ideal when viewed on the shop floor but what would it look like in the front room? Without obligation to buy our customers can find out with our 'free demonstration - no obligation' policy.

Just one more innovation from Easy Living Mobility making life that little bit easier.

HERE’S SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT

is celebrating their 2nd BIRTHDAY WITH 20% DISCOUNT To help celebrate The Smile Centre’s 2nd birthday we are offering 20% discount* off denture treatments and dentures. Book your appointment now for dentures to be ready in time for Christmas.

There is really no reason for anyone to struggle with ill-fitting, poorly performing or unflattering dentures.

The right denture not only massively improves the quality of life of each customer, it improves self-esteem and even health as food can be properly chewed to release nutrients.

The Smile Centre dentures can look as good as or even better than your natural teeth, and customers soon think of them as simply part of them, not

tricky prosthetics that have to be considered when eating out etc.

So, for an informal chat with a lovely, friendly team lead by Matt Burnell, who understand that this is a very personal process, why not follow the lead of customers who have come to visit The Smile Centre from as far afield as the USA. You’ll be so glad that you did.

Please remember, you don’t always have to see a dentist for any denture treatment. Here at The Smile Centre we have everything you need.

Book your free consultation today *Consultation needs to be booked before 9th December.

Matt Burnell BSc (Hons) Dip CDT RCS (Eng) GDC No 123633

Discount only applies to dentures an Terms and Conditions apply.

READ WHAT OUR SATISFIED CUSTOMERS SAY ABOUT THE SMILE CENTRE AND FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR SMILE AGAIN. THE PATIENTS BELOW DID JUST THAT WITH THE PROFESSIONAL HELP AND DEDICATION OF THE SMILE CENTRE, LICHFIELD. Matt and Julie made me feel very comfortable. Matt knew exactly what I wanted but still let me tell him myself. Years of agony, a few visits to Matt and I am a very, very happy man. Thank you so much.

Robert Harrison, Polesworth.

Matt is very friendly and has time for you.

He explains in detail all the treatments available and puts you at ease. Julie has excellent customer service skills and makes you welcome at all times. Thank you for making me smile with confidence again.

Sharon Jakeman, Cannock.

Matt spent a lot of time with my dentures and with us. Thank you Matt and Julie.

Peter Cotterill, Rugeley.

The most comfortable dentures I have ever had. S L Redfern, Rugeley.

I am extremely pleased with my new dentures. I feel they are tailor made for me (which of course they are!). I didn’t realise that dentures could be so carefully crafted for an individual.

Christine Harris, Burntwood.

Come directly to a Clinical Dental Technician - The Smile Centre is the only Clinical Dental Technician’s Practice in Lichfield. Open Monday to Friday 9am to5pm. Out of hours appointments by arrangement.

REPAIRS • DENTURES • FINANCE • RELINES • DENTURE STABILISTAION AVAILABLE Page 37

GazetteNews

Little Artists' Exhibition at Emporium C

hildren from Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery and Pre-School were delighted to have their paintings and pottery displayed in a 'real art gallery' recently. Emporium Gallery in Bird Street, owned by Amanda Moseley and Jannette Murphy, opened their doors to show an impressive display of work which was enjoyed by proud parents and the general public at an evening event on Oct 22. That event saw Boswell the Bower Bear getting in on the act!

The inspiration for the youngsters' work was 'My Favourite Story'.

Parents were invited to purchase their child's work and all proceeds were donated to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

Gallery display for Humpty Dumpty Little Artists

Some of the children’s art-work Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GazetteFeature

Paul Martyn &

Furniture Gifts

HEART OF THE COUNTRY, LICHFIELD

ALL STOCK READY FOR CHRISTMAS DELIVERY

At this time of year, in the run up to Christmas, there is always so much to see in Paul Martyn's five extensive showrooms at Heart Of The Country, on the outskirts of Lichfield.

The main attraction is their exclusive choice of quality handmade pine and oak furniture, which is always in demand at this time of year and has been for the previous 28 years.

Another popular aspect of Paul Martyn is their range of high quality gifts to add style and elegance to any home.

Since the inception of the company, Paul Martyn has become the Midland's leading oak specialist - highly skilled at making made to measure solid oak furniture to grace any room in any home. A visit to Paul Martyn's showroom enables customers to see

A selection of the extensive range of quality furniture in our showrooms

why their furniture is so desirable there is no magic about it - it is all down to creative design, highest quality oak and a superb long-lasting finish on whatever item you choose. In addition to this, knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to show customers the full range.

Choose from tables, chairs, cabinets, wardrobes, chests, dressers all ready for delivery before Christmas.

At Paul Martyn luxury does not have to mean expensive. Their prices represent the very best value on the finest quality oak furniture they have ever offered - so you choose the look of luxury - and who knows - an antique of the future!

Come and see our choice of festive gifts at amazing prices

Affordable quality is the key word at Paul Martyn, so too is choice. You can choose furniture from a range of different woods in a wonderful choice of finishes for any room in your home.

There is also an extensive selection of

pine, reclaimed pine, rustic and painted furniture to provide an appealing atmosphere in your home.

If you intend to bring the magic of wood into your home, there has never been a better time to visit Paul Martyn.

They have the widest choice of wonderful furniture in a range of woods and finishes - all at excellent prices and all for delivery prior to the festive season.

Aubusson Oak

Page 39

F

riary Shoes started life in Lombard Street in 1904. The original business traded as SMITHS a boot and shoe making concern also offering a repairs service . Since this time four generations have been involved in the progress of the business.

In 1955 The Friary Shop name was adopted when the shop then traded opposite the Friary School in St.John Street.

A branch was opened in Uttoxeter in 1981 and at the same time the trading name changed to Friary Shoes. Prior to this the business had moved to City Arcade where it has been serving men, women and children with leading brands and sound advice for the past 50 years.

A staff of 50 people work in both Lichfield and Uttoxeter and many have long service with the company. We must be doing something right!

The staff offer a combined experience of over 300 years of footwear knowledge that is important to foot health and comfort especially where developing children’s feet are concerned.

Friary Shoes was one of the first independent footwear retailers to get the Clarks Brand outside their own shops.

Levi the swinging monkey window display, a favourite with young children and some adults is moving with us after some essential repairs.

He moved into our shop in 1992 and when he joins us in our new store he is due to gain some new friends – watch this space!

Tell us about your earliest memory of our shop, you could win a voucher worth £100 to spend in our new shop, see opposite page.

The next chapter

Our new store opens on 14th November 2013. The new position is located more in the town and only 6 doors down from Debenhams.

The look of the new store is very different to our current shop. It is long and narrow as opposed to wide and shallow. The thought process behind the new concept is to create a light airy environment in which the customer can feel comfortable yet inspired on what sort of footwear to buy. The visual displays will be

signposted to enable the customer to easily locate a particular brand or style of shoe.

We have over 35 staff on hand to help and advise you to meet your footwear needs, as well as offering expert knowledge on accessories and how to look after your footwear, once you take them home.

Here at Friary Shoes we still aim to maintain our sense of tradition and heritage but want to make Friary Shoes appeal to all generations.

We have secured some fantastic Brands like Ugg, Timberland, Dr Martins all to complement our existing ranges from Clarks, Gabor, Rieker, Van Dal, Ecco, Start-rite and many more. We also offer a wide range of handbags, hosiery and leather accessories to complete your look.

T

wo days later on Saturday 16th we shall mark this special occasion in our long history with the official opening at midday.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

The new store is a short distance from Debenhams opposite Trespass and Costa.

Tell us your earliest memories of shopping at Friary Shoes, either by email or post.

Also in what year did Friary Shoes move into City Arcade?

Send your answer on a post card to Paul Oakley PO box 5415, Lichfield WS14 4EZ or email: paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Financial Details: a) Cash price ) £10,995.00 (inc. VAT); (b) Less Initial Rentals / deposit £1,099.50; (c) Balance of cash price/amount of credit £9,895.50; (d) Add Charges £1,484.10; (e) First instalment of the Credit Arrangement Fee payable with the first Monthly rental £149.00; (f) Second instalment (£139.00) of the Credit Arrangement Fee and Purchase Fee (£10.00) payable with Final Rental (inc. VAT, if applicable) £10.00; (g) Total Charge for Credit (d) + (e) + (f) £1,782.10; (h) Balance Payable (c) + (g) £11,677.60; (i) Total Amount Payable (b) + (h £8,012.22 6.9 % APR The balance shown at (h) above is payable by: 59 Monthly Rentals. Followed by a final payment of £189.66 and the second instalment of the Credit Arrangement Fee £139.00 and the Purchase Fee of £10.00 Total £338.66

Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

GazetteNews

Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal Launch

O

n Saturday 26th October the Lichfield Branch of the Royal British Legion launched their annual Poppy Appeal outside the Guildhall.

The Poppy Appeal is the Legion’s largest fundraising event with monies going towards serving and ex-soldiers and their families.

Tony Robinson, Chairman and standard bearer of Lichfield Royal British Legion (which was formed in 1928 and is now the only one in south Mr John Hemstock Staffordshire) Photo by Robert Yardley commented: "We were one of the highest of any raisers of poppy appeal funds, the people of Lichfield kindly donated over £33,000 last year."

Attending the launch event were British Legion Poppy Sellers, Mayor Cllr Bob Awty, Mayoress Mrs Eileen Awty, British Legion representatives, Chairman of Lichfield District Council David Leytham with Mrs Jan Leytham-Gain plus MP Michael Fabricant.

Southwell Mott Solicitors Southwell Mott are taking part in Will Aid this November. Last year we raised nearly £4,500 for charity Southwell Mott offer a full range of legal services which include:• Conveyancing

• Wills • Probate • Employment • Trusts

• Matrimonial • Cohabitee • Divorce • Children disputes • Civil

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

Page 43

South Staffordshire College students Qualify for National Finals

S

tudents from South Staffordshire College have made it through tough regional rounds to represent their sectors at The WorldSkills UK National Finals 2013.

The College is a Premier College sponsor of The Skills Show, which plays host to the WorldSkills UK finals between 14th – 16th November at the NEC Birmingham.

The Skills Show is the UK’s biggest skills and careers event, providing a unique opportunity for young people to become inspired and learn more about education, skills and apprenticeship opportunities.

The event is free, offering the perfect opportunity to meet employers and existing students on courses at the College.

Toni Yilmaz, aged 27 from Cheslyn Hay, qualified in the Nail Technology category. Toni completed a full set of nail enhancements and was then selected from a number of students to compete in the WorldSkills UK competitions. She studied Nail Technology at an evening course at the College’s Tamworth campus and is currently studying Hairdressing at Tamworth.

Louisa Cooper, aged 19 from Burntwood, will represent South Staffordshire College in Floristry, after qualifying at the regional heat.

Louisa had to design and make a floral cushion prior to the show and make two other items during the competition – a hand tied creation and a corsage.

Both Toni and Louisa did extremely well to make the final, as qualification in the regional round does not guarantee a place. They had to be amongst the six highest scoring competitors in the country to go forward to the National Final.

Students from across South Staffordshire College’s four campuses have also volunteered to support the Skills Show. 60 Construction students and 12 Sports Science students will get the chance to work within a team, to see a national event built, delivered and broken down.

They will learn new skills, have an opportunity to meet with local employers and seek advice and guidance from experts.

The National Finals are an integral part of The Skills Show which takes place in Birmingham from November 14th – 16th at the NEC. Visitors to the South Staffordshire College stand (FE11) will also be able to speak to expert tutors and students to get up to the minute careers advice for help in discovering their true potential.

In addition to the activities on the College stand, the Skills Show has a comprehensive ‘Have a Go’ programme. South Staffordshire College has been selected to participate in four activities, which will encourage young people to have a go at TV presenting, try their hand at nail painting and glitter tattoos and enjoy a plumbing challenge. Also, budding motor vehicle students can get involved in a range of activities, including changing spark plugs and laser guided wheel alignment.

For young people interested in a career working with animals, the College’s Animal Zone Manager David Riley will be giving a spotlight talk on Zoo Keeping.

Tickets for the show are free. For more information about The Skills Show, and to register visit: www.theskillsshow.com or call 0845 475 1500

Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Sinfonia to perform at the Guildhall

L

ichfield Sinfonia will be in Lichfield Guildhall on Sunday 24 November at 7.30pm with a concert dedicated to the memory of Hugh Skemp, (1922-2013) who was a founder member of the orchestra, played the oboe, was President, and when he could no longer play still attended rehearsals as a critical friend.

The concert features the Sibelius Violin concerto, played by Soh-Yon Kim, a young Korean artist. Soh-Yon has been chosen as one of the Rising Stars of the Royal College of Music and is the winner of the RCM Concerto Competition. She is a recommended young artist of the Musicians Benevolent Society, and there will be a collection for their Fund at this concert.

Lichfield Sinfonia is the amateur orchestra of the City of Lichfield, founded in 1957, and regularly performs in the Guildhall. All players come from the local area and meet weekly to explore the challenges of orchestral music under the leadership of Conductor Sara Birchall.

The Sinfonia will also play Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no 6 - the Pathétique, and the concert will begin with the ever popular Hebrides Overture.

Tickets for the performance are £7.00 and can be ordered from 01543 264718, or via the website www.lichfieldsinfonia.co.uk.

Forbes

Recruitment For recruitment and placement of permanent and temporary staff in Staffordshire.

01543 439475 enquiries@forbesrecruitment.com New Minster House, Lichfield WS13 6PR.

Soloist Soh-Yon Kim.

The Orchestra

Page 45

We Love The charm of Lichfield for many local shoppers and visitors alike is the wealth of small shops offering great value for money or something different.

With a wide range of superb businesses in Tamworth Street you’ll find everything you need from beauty and hair treatments to baby bootees, from food and fashion to frames and furniture, from spectacles and spot lights to gifts galore.

If you haven’t been to Tamworth Street recently, you’re in for a real treat because it’s great to experience a street in a shopping centre on the up!

Not many cities can boast streets where nearly every shop is occupied by independent businesses - and all with something unique to offer their customers. Why not give Tamworth Street a try the next time you’re in the city centre?

You’ll be glad you did!

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE?

There are 12 differences in the two pictures of Tamworth Street - spot just 10 of them and you could be in with a chance of winning £50 to spend at any one of the splendid business in the Tamworth Street feature.

Rules: Ring the changes but remember to get at least 10. Cut out and send the whole coupon no later than Friday 22nd November.

Make sure you have entered your name and full postal address on the coupon and send it in an envelope to: Gazette Magazines, Tamworth Street Competition, P O Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. The Editor’s decision is final and there is no cash alternative.

Name Address Tel: Good luck!

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 47

NUYU CELEBRATES THEIR FIRST YEAR IN THRALES HOUSE. How time flies when your having fun, and for Sophie Walker and her partner James Birch the fun of creating a great business in one of the most iconic buildings in Lichfield has been a real buzz!

Sophie and James celebrated the anniversary of their opening with an ‘open house’ party at Thrales House where friends, family and clients joined together to enjoy a great night with cocktails and ` canapes.

Thrales House, home for NUYU and now more recently Stardust Dancewear, has been open 12 months and already has become established as the leaders in hair, health, beauty and aesthetics with so many remarkable facets to the business.

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

BEAUTY NUYU is also an AVEDA Exclusive Salon for hair, make-up and beauty treatments where trained beauticians and technicians are part of a 12 strong team and eight treatment rooms.

Beauty treatments include Make-up, manicures and pedicures, AVEDA facials, waxing, body treatments and much more. Nails are from a selection of the best available with Shellac, OPI, Bio Sculpture, IBD, Gel, acrylic plus many more, all applied by dedicated nail technicians.

HAIR SALON Now the area’s top AVEDA hair salon, NUYU has every conceivable product available in this sensation award winning range to purchase. You can even visit their website to download a 10% discount voucher (available only during the launch period www.nu-yu.net). NUYU is both a ladies and gentlemen’s ten station hair salon with top stylists and colourists.

Above Sophie and her mom Lynne

AESTHETICS One of the best-equipped salons around for non-invasive and non-surgical treatments.

NUYU specialties include Lynton IPL and ND:YAG laser hair removals, acne treatments, tattoo removal, dermal fillers, laser-teeth whitening, Non-surgical face lifts, HD Brows, Crystal Clear microdermabrasion, Lipoform inch-loss body sculpting, tanning, waxing and so much more.

Hair Back Wash

Page 49

Gemma and the Midland Fashion Awards

L

ichfield’s own Gemma Ramage, owner of Bijou at No.15 in Tamworth Street, was a worthy nominee at the annual Midlands Fashion Awards (October 11), The event was held at The Penthouse, Hurst Street, Birmingham in a bid to showcase some of the fresh, new and unseen talent that the region has to offer. The Midlands Fashion Awards was, yet again, a testimony to the skilled designers, makeup artists and stylists that are collectively creating the Midlands fashion phenomenon.

28-year-old Gemma, who created her own label ‘Bijou Boudoir’ was one of just six finalists who made it into the Independent Designer of the Year category at the event. The whole affair was hosted by magazines Style Birmingham and Sixtyninedegrees and Central TV’s Lucy Kite presented the evening.

Page 50 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 51

Come and visit the AWARD WINNING

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

• • • • • •

Surrounded by 3 car parks.

All free after 6.30pm

Christmas Party Bookings are now being taken.

Superb menu with a vast choice selection.

Experienced chefs from Hong Kong & Malaysia.

Open 12 noon till late.

Superb function room, seats up to 65.

Sunday lunchtime buffet £9.95 & under 10yrs child £4.95 Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388

Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

y t i VIEW C The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - Nov 2013

Councillor Terry Finn, Leader of the Council

As we head towards Christmas it seems a good opportunity for me to mention that as usual the City Council will be lighting up the city centre with its festive lights, and to remind you of the date of the traditional switch-on ceremony. This year, in a change to what has happened before, we are switching on the lights on Sunday 24 November at 5pm - more details on this page.

This is always an extremely popular event for all the family and is sure to be a very exciting and enjoyable afternoon for children of all ages (even the grown-ups). I hope the local community gives its usual tremendous support to ensure that it is as successful as in previous years.

The switch-on will take place on the Market Square at 5pm, and after the success of last year’s format we have again teamed up with the Chamber of Trade and local businesses to host a programme of entertainment on the Square from 2pm through to around 6.15pm with performances by some very talented local musicians. In addition there will be a festive market of Christmas themed stalls around the city centre.

So please come along and support what promises to be a tremendous event, I hope to see you there.

Christmas Lights Switch-on

SUNDAY 24th NOVEMBER AT 5pm!

This year we have again enhanced the ever-popular Christmas Lights switch-on event to make it even bigger and better, with live music on stage on the Market Square from 2pm.

The traditional elements will still be the same from around 4.30pm to the switch-on at 5pm but on either side of this we will be presenting live music from some of the best musicians in the area.

The switch-on of the Christmas Lights in the City has always been an exciting and enjoyable family event for children and

adults alike, attracting very large crowds to the Market Square; and we hope that this year with the change of day to a weekend the attendance will be better than ever.

As well as our musicians and singers the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Bob Awty, will be joined on stage by Joanne Malin and other cast members from the Garrick Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime ‘Snow White and the Magic Mirror’ and two local children - the winners of the City Council’s Mercury newspaper competition - to help with the switch-on.

During the afternoon from 2pm till around 4.30pm the audience will be entertained by performances from The Mott Men and Funktional, followed by Wildfire Folk. The Christchurch School Choir will lead traditional Christmas Carols during the countdown to the switch-on; and then immediately after music continues with the Fuse Community Choir and the schools harmonica project, Harmonicasaurus.

Some of the performers appearing in the Christmas Lights Show – Funktional, and Wildfire Folk Wildfire Folk

Funktional Page 53

CityVIEW

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - Nov 2013

TWINNING MATTERS Lichfield, Limburg and Sainte-Foy are now in the spotlight of visitors from around the world. The entrance signs of the twin cities were presented as gifts to Limburg, which has now donated them to the Fernwehpark, part of the wanderlust parks in Germany. Tourists from all over the world visit and contribute to a growing collection of over 4,000 worldwide place signs.

The Fernwehpark was inspired by the Watson Lake project in Canada where there are over 50, 000 greeting signs. But the Fernwehpark is unique in Europe, being a long-term project for peace and unity. The "signs from around the world" are used as a symbol of peace and togetherness, regardless of race, religion or political belief.

Attached photos show the official handover of the signs. More details can be viewed on www.fernweh-park.de/deu/events/dbs/limburg-lahn.htm If you are interested in corresponding with a French or German pen friend, or if your organisation would be interested in creating new exchanges with our French and German twin towns, please contact the Lichfield City twinning officer, Mrs Sophie Bishop by email at Sophie.bishop@lichfield.gov.uk, or by calling 01543 309857, or visit the Facebook page: Lichfield-Twinning.

City entrance signs

Lichfield Markets

Dates for your diary…

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS, THEATRE PRODUCTION – SATURDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 7.30pm in the Guildhall, tickets £12.

A special Christmas show suitable for all the family ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ by the Distraction Theatre Company.

The event is held in aid of the Chairman’s and Mayor’s & Sheriff’s Charities – which this year are: Lichfield Arthritis Care, Young Carers Lichfield, Friends of Samuel Johnson Community Hospital and St Giles Hospice.

AFTERNOON TEA AND FLOWER ARRANGING – TUESDAY 3 DECEMBER, 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm in the Guildhall Tickets £8.00

The Mayoress, Eileen Awty and Sheriff’s Lady, Penny Thomas are hosting a c h a r i t y fundraising afternoon in the Guildhall Lichfield. Come along and make a Christmas themed arrangement – in a teacup!.

Ticket price includes all materials and afternoon tea. However you do need to bring a cup and saucer in which to make the arrangement and pair of scissors and an apron.

This event is held in aid of the Mayor and Sheriff’s Charities: Friends of Samuel Johnson Community Hospital and St Giles Hospice.

CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS, 7.00pm, Wednesday 11 December in the Guildhall

The Mayor, Councillor Bob Awty invites you to join him for a traditional Christmas Carol Service, with local choirs leading the singing, and mince pies and mulled wine to follow. This is a free event but seats are limited.

Saturday, 25 January, 7.30pm in the Guildhall, a charity quiz night, teams of 4 (£5 per person) light refreshments included. Raising funds for the Mayor and Sheriff’s Charities.

To book a table please call 01543 309854

For more information or to book tickets please contact Kate Durrant on 01543 309854, or email kate.durrant@lichfield.gov.uk

Coming soon at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum From exhibitions to creative workshops for all ages, the Birthplace Museum has something to offer the whole city this Winter.

Art Workshop

Street stalls at the 2012 Christmas Festival Weekend Christmas Lights Switch On: Sunday 24 November – Market stalls in Market Street and the Three Spires Shopping Centre selling Christmas lines and scrumptious hot and cold food - 11am to 6pm Christmas Festival Weekend: Saturday 7 December – Free family entertainment on Market Square along with the Saturday General Market, with market stalls extending into Market Street Sunday 8 December – The Lichfield Chamber of Trade Christmas Market and free family entertainment on Market Square with an enticing selection of Farmers’ Market stalls in the surrounding streets.

Markets for Christmas: Monthly Farmers’ Market on Thursday 5 December with an additional date on Thursday 19 December. General Markets on Friday 20 December, Saturday 21 December and Tuesday 24 December (Christmas Eve).

The Market Square is also available for hire on a commercial or charitable basis on nonmarket days and for more details, or for any queries relating to Lichfield Markets, please contact the Markets Officer, Rachel Clive. Tel: 01543 309853. e-mail: rachel.clive@lichfield.gov.uk Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Tuesdays 19th November, 17th December and 15th January (and every third Tuesday of each month) Create striking paintings and drawings in our monthly mixed media workshops led by award- winning artist Carole Collier. Individual attention in small, friendly sessions with a different theme each month £10 per session including all materials and refreshments.

Bookworms United!

Read, explore and enjoy popular titles in a fortnightly book and activity club for 7-11 year olds. New members always welcome, next dates: Saturdays November 3rd and 17th at 10.30am

Samuel Johnson’s Christmas Light Night

Sunday 24th November, 3.30pm – 6pm Warm-up with festive refreshments and activities before the Lichfield lights switch-on, Free entry, just drop in!

A Georgian Family Christmas

Saturday 7th December, 4.30pm A delightful evening of festive music, storytelling and activities for all in beautiful historic surroundings.

Adults £5 including drink and mince pie; kids go free For more information about any event or to make a booking call 01543 264972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or pop into the Museum Bookshop on the corner of the Market Square.

CityVIEW

The Newsletter of Lichfield City Council - Nov 2013

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

Any organisation whose work is of benefit to the residents of the City is eligible to apply and all applications are then considered by the Council when it meets in March of each year.

For the current financial year approximately £25,000 in general grants was awarded to local groups to help their work in the City.

Forms for the 2014 grants round are available from the City Council’s offices or off our website. Remember all applications must be submitted by 10 January 2014.

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

The right Council…

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

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

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

Public Participation

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

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

Monday, 25 November, 2013

6.30pm

COUNCIL

Wednesday, 4 December, 2013

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Thursday, 2 January, 2014

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Monday, 20 January, 2014

6.30pm

COUNCIL

Thursday, 23 January, 2014

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Thursday, 13 February, 2014

6.30pm

Planning Applications Committee

Monday, 3 March, 2014

6.30pm

COUNCIL Page 55

GazetteNews

GazetteFeature

150 Football Volunteers given Royal Seal of Approval

GRAHAMS CYCLES Celebrating 30 Years

I

n celebration of the 150th anniversary of the first meeting of the Football Association – that unique meeting of Founding Fathers that shaped the game – The FA held a unique match at Buckingham Palace on Monday 21st October.

Thanks to The FA’s president HRH the Duke of Cambridge asking his grandmother’s permission, the organisation was able to honour 150 of its most deserving servants of the game...the real Grassroots Heroes... in an awards ceremony at the Palace.

After this ceremony in the afternoon the Palace held its first ever match under Association laws. As one of the game’s founding members, Civil Service FC took on fellow Southern Amateur League Division one side Polytechnic.

As autumnal sunshine beat down on the Palace lawn (with its patches of camomile) a pitch had been carefully marked out by Wembley groundsman Tony Stones to match the famous stadium’s dimensions. Polytechnic beat the nominal home team 2-1 in an actionpacked match refereed by World Cup Final referee Howard Webb.

Also on the day the FA’s Head of Football Development Les Howie held a skills session, alongside Michael Owen and HRH Prince William, Duke of Cambridge.

Wearing a pair of Nike boots handed to him as a present from England striker Wayne Rooney, The Duke of Cambridge showed a secure touch for a big man and a surprising turn of pace, although elements of his technique were a work in progress.

Earlier the Duke told the 150 Grassroots Heroes about the efforts he went to secure Buckingham Palace as English football’s latest venue.

He said: “I cannot tell you how excited I am that later today we will be playing football on my grandmother’s lawn. One warning, though: if anyone breaks a window, you can answer to her.

“The beautiful game has changed an awful lot during The Queen’s reign, but it remains the most loved game in the country, most probably the world.”

It is this love of football that united The Duke of Cambridge with all the attendees, from the Civil Service FC and Polytechnic FC players to the 150 Heroes and their guests.

Mic and Shirley Sharrod from Lichfield were two of the 150 heroes invited for their work over the last 20 years not only in setting up one of the Midland’s premier female only football clubs Lichfield Diamonds, where Mic is Chairman & Shirley Club secretary, but for their work in the development of Girls & Womens football in Staffordshire.

Mic said: “I don’t feel like I am volunteering at all. It feels like a hobby and I just love it. It was a total surprise when we heard we would be Page 56 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

G

raham Roberts more knows about the cycle than business practically anyone in the district.

He originally learned the trade (the nuts and bolts) from Osbornes Cycles in Lichfield, who were part of his wife’s family business.

coming here and it’s wonderful to be recognised.

“But we don’t do it for the recognition, we do it because we want as many girls as possible to play this fantastic sport and share our passion.

“It's been great to meet other people who put so much time in too: hearing from others how they do things and sharing ideas. To shake hands with the future King, WOW! It's been wonderful!”

The FA’s Chairman Greg Dyke echoed those sentiments, commenting: “From coaches to kit men, grounds men to bus drivers, referees to tea-ladies; grassroots football brings out a true sense of community...of supporting each other and of sharing a simple passion with our family and friends.

“Everyone - and in that I include myself as a still active if an ageing and more occasional participant - everyone who has ever played the game has benefited from the support of a volunteer.

“It may be the first coach who taught you, or a friend’s dad who arranged the fixtures and marked the pitch, the league secretary or a mum who’d ferry you and your mates to matches and would be persuaded to wash all the kits as well or, as in my day, the guys who carried out the posts and nets and put them up.

“The game survives and thrives on the contribution of 400,000 volunteers, whom week in and week out give of their time, in every County, club and league in the land. They are the life-blood of the game and I am so pleased we are able to celebrate their immeasurable contribution here today in this our 150th year.”

Diamonds are solely devoted to Girls football and cater for every age group from U8 through to Ladies, anyone interested in sponsoring a team or wishing to join the Club’s superb set-up can contact the Club on 01543254069 or 07790638714.

In 1983 he started working for himself renting a shed in Lichfield at the rear of Matthews Print off

GazetteFeature

Tamworth Street just doing cycle repairs. After six months he moved to a shop in Tamworth Street, which is now an amusement arcade. Eventually moving to the Graham’s Cycles many folks may recall at no. 11 Bird Street. That was their home until the shop, which they currently occupy, became available for sale in Wheel Lane and Graham moved there 25 years ago.

This was a great move and with easy access and free parking outside the shop, it was virtually the only cycle shop for miles.

Offering a friendly personal service Graham built a good reputation and soon many parents were buying a new bike for themselves or for the children or calling with bike repairs. Graham told the Gazette; “It’s always so nice to see familiar faces and many of the children I served back in the early days are the parents themselves, and now bringing their own offspring in.”

We asked Graham if much had changed in 30 years; “Yes in many ways. Back in the early days bikes were much more basic and the choice was limited with three speed or ten speed racers with drop handle bars, and not much else. The BMX boom coincided with the time we were at Bird Street and that caused a renewed interest in cycles. The materials now are much lighter with carbon and aluminium frames and rims. The new technology is so much better.

Today’s cycles are better built and superior quality.”

Grahams Cycles has a comprehensive range of accessories including clothing and helmets stocking many well-known brands such as Shimano, Hope, Sram, Lazer, and Continental Tyres.

If you are looking for a new cycle for Christmas then you can choose from a range by Dawes, Claud Butler and Raleigh, as well as BMX like Blank, Ruption and Eastern.

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GazetteFeature

Recollections of William Percy Davis 1896 to 1987

By Kate Gomez

T

he “E” (Lichfield) Company of the 6th Battalion of The North Staffordshire Regiment mobilised for foreign service at the Guildhall on 4th August 1914 and shortly afterwards marched to Burton on Trent to join their Battalion.

However, further recruits were needed to bring the company up to war strength and so on 28th August, a public meeting was held at the Guildhall. Forty one additional men were drafted into the company that night. One of those men was

Lichfield Company Home Guard

William Percy Davis, known throughout his life as Percy.

After signing up at the Guildhall along with his brother Charles, eighteen year old Percy and the other new conscripts marched to Burton to join the rest of the Company and their Battalion. Apparently, thanks to enjoying a couple of drinks en-route they earned themselves the nickname ‘The Drunken Forty’ (and appear to have lost one of their number somewhere along the way!). After training in Luton, Bishops Stortford and Saffron Waldron, the Battalion left England in February 1915 onboard the ‘Empress of Britain’. After arriving at Le Havre and camping for two nights the Battalion entrained for Octeville, eventually arriving at Estaires. After a day’s rest they joined the 1st Middlesex on the front line for three days. Three weeks in the trenches at Messines was followed by a week out at the camp huts.

The Battalion stayed in the Ypres sector for a few months before moving south for the first attack, marching past the Prince of Wales at Sailly. In October 1915, they relieved a division of Guards at the Hohenzollern Redoubt suffering heavy casualties. Percy described how, as the men piled arms for collection the night before they were due to go over the top, there was no chatter or laughter. Each man was lost in his own thoughts. Shortly after daybreak, Percy went over the top in the second wave. The majority of the first wave had been killed.

In December 1915, the Battalion entrained for Marseilles, spending four days in cattle trucks. They arrived at Port Said on a small transport tug called ‘Beltana’ and then entrained for El Shallufa, crossing the Suez Canal by a chain operated flat ferry. After landing at the other side, a sudden sandstorm Page 58 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Percy and elder brother Charles at Blackpool

forced them to take shelter, setting up camp a few hundred yards from the canal, eight men to each bell tent. Their object was to cover the evacuation of Suvla Bay. However, their stay in Egypt was short and by January 1916 the division had returned to Marseilles where they were able to pick up their Christmas mail, before returning to the front around Aisne-Marne sector. In one letter home, Percy mentioned that the cobbled streets in France reminded him of the Market Square back in Lichfield.

On July 1st 1916, the Battalion took part in the Somme offensive at Gommecourt and Hebuterne.

Afterwards they moved south to Mazingarbe, where Percy went ahead with a small advanced party to take over from the French at Acq. Percy returned to England for commission in 1917 and was posted to the Artists Rifles at Gidea Park in Romford. Percy was appointed Second Lieutenant and commissioned to the 5th North Staffordshire Regiment. After this regiment disbanded, Percy joined the 9th trained new division and found himself back in the Ypres sector.

On arriving at Passchendaele, Percy found the whole area one of destruction. There were no buildings, just duckboards, mud and huge shell holes. At this time, Percy made an application for transfer to the Royal Flying Corps and was reposted to Toc H Talbot House in Poperinghe. Percy had an interview, followed by an examination, but afterwards heard from the Corps HQ that all transfers had been postponed owing to the German offensive.

During 1918, Percy spent time at the front, and recalled places such as Achiet-le-Grand and neighbouring Achiet-lePetit. When the armistice was declared on 11 November 1918, Percy was in the Forêt de Mormal and from there moved to Maubeuge where the Battalion regrouped and marched in stages to Gosselies where he was appointed demobilisation officer.

In February 1919, Percy arrived back in England at Tilbury and travelled from there to Clipstone Camp in Nottinghamshire where he was demobbed himself on the 23rd February 1919. However, he did not receive his medals - the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal – until he requested them in 1977, most likely because at one stage during the war he had been recorded as ‘missing, presumed dead’.

Percy returned to the family home ‘Roxdene’ on the Walsall Road in Lichfield and to work at the family business - a high class poultry, game and fishmongers shop that his father, Charles Henry Davis, had on Bird Street. The business supplied all of the houses in The Close (as at this time these houses employed their own cooks and deliveries had to be made in time for them to prepare lunch), the Lichfield Barracks, Nearfield House and some of the other big houses in the area including Beaudesert. Initially, deliveries were made with a horse and cart, later a van, but always using the tradesman’s entrance! Horses were kept at

stables off Friars Alley, which also doubled up as the business’s slaughter yard. In his spare time, Percy was a keen sportsman, playing bowls, football and golf locally and attending trials for Aston Villa (Percy’s interest in football was also evident in the diaries he kept during the war. One of his entries for 1918 shows the line-up he had picked for the Battalion team he organised).

When the Second World War broke out, Percy was in his early forties, and was prepared once again to serve his country overseas. However, the commanding officer insisted that Percy had already ‘done his bit’, and suggested that as he was just about to get married he should instead join the Home Guard. Percy took his advice and joined the 10th (Lichfield) Staffordshire Battalion Home Guard. On Easter Day 1940, Percy married Bessie May Hewitt, an infant school teacher and a native of Lichfield having been born in Beacon Street. The couple lived at Springfield on Valley Lane and had two sons John (born 1941) and Michael (1944). His father Charles died in 1941, and Percy took over the business on Bird Street, eventually retiring in 1961. In the 1980s, Percy visited the Staffordshire Regiment Museum and, on signing the visitors’ book, was delighted to see that the previous entry had been made by the Prince of Wales. In 1987, after nearly ninety years in the city, Percy left Lichfield to live near son John on the Wirral.

A plaque on which the service of the “E” Lichfield Company in the First World War is commemorated now hangs in the Guildhall. The names of those men who did not return are marked with a small red cross.

Note The account of William Percy Davis’s service in World War One and his later life back in Lichfield has been based on his own reminiscences, diaries and papers together with conversations with his sons, John and Michael Davis.

William Percy Davis in uniform

Plaque at Guildhall commemorating the "E" Lichfield Company

O

Award of the Arctic Star

n Wednesday 24th October Mr Edward Hancox (89) of Burntwood received the Arctic Star from Mr Ian Dudson, the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, at a ceremony held at the Stafford County Buildings.

The Arctic Star is granted for operational service of any length north of the Arctic Circle from the 3rd September, 1939, to the 8th May, 1945. The Arctic Star commemorates the Arctic Convoys and is designed primarily for the ships of the convoys to North Russia and their Escorts.

Congratulations to Mr Hancox from all at the Lichfield Gazette.

Two Staffordshire solicitors complete collaborative law training

W

hilst the superrich frequently hit the headlines with divorces involving long, drawn-out expensive courtroom battles, couples separating in Staffordshire can now take a less stressful approach.

Experienced family lawyers Susan Davies Family law - Susan Davies and Laura Lambert and Laura Lambert from Ansons Solicitors in Lichfield and Cannock have now completed their training to offer an alternative way to settle family disputes, known as collaborative law.

Under the collaborative law process, each person appoints their own collaboratively trained lawyer and the couples and their respective lawyers all meet together to work things out face to face. Each person has their lawyer by their side throughout the meetings and so benefits from their support and legal advice when required.

Everyone involved, including the lawyers, signs an agreement that commits the parties to trying to resolve the issues without going to court and prevents the lawyers from representing you in court if the collaborative process breaks down. That means everyone is absolutely committed to finding the best solution by agreement, rather than through court proceedings.

The collaborative option is suitable for all aspects of family breakdown, including disputes over children or finances and is an ideal process for pre-nuptial and civil partnership agreements. It can also be used to resolve disputes arising from the separation of an unmarried couple.

Ansons family law expert Susan Davies commented: “The benefits of the collaborative service are clear. Couples feel more in control and the process encourages openness and honesty instead of mistrust. By communicating face to face we can help each couple to find constructive solutions that suit their personal situation.�

During the negotiations, which take place over a series of meetings, other professionals such as accountants, pension experts and financial advisors can be invited to join the meeting to offer advice. The lawyers manage the whole process and help you to come to an agreement.

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GazetteNews

Real men don’t hit women Michael Fabricant and the Chairman of Lichfield District Council, David Latham, ‘camped it up’ for charity on Saturday 19th October when with 100 others they walked a mile around Lichfield to raise money for the Pathway Project, a local charity against domestic violence. The walkers were given high heels to undertake the course.

“I chickened out” said Michael Fabricant. “I didn’t fancy blisters or a bunion! But I probably over-compensated on the pink!

The Project offers a 24 hour helpline: 01543 676800 and further information can be found at www.pathway-project.co.uk Following Michael Fabricant’s walk for the Pathway Project, he raised the work of the Project with Theresa May the Home Secretary, in the House of Commons on Monday, 28th October, and asked that a Home Office Minister visit the programme.

This is the exchange as recorded by Hansard: Michael Fabricant: “Last week I wore pink, in common with 100 others in Lichfield; pink trousers, pink shirt, pink feather boa; to walk for the Pathway project in my constituency.

The project looks after those, not only women, but men too, who suffer from domestic violence. Will the Home Secretary or one of her team please come to Lichfield to see the good work the Pathway project is doing?”

Mr Speaker: “The hon. Gentleman must have looked even more exotic than usual.”

Mrs May: “I know that my hon. Friend has a fondness for taking photographs, and I wonder whether he has taken a photograph of himself that could perhaps be circulated to Members of the House for their edification. He makes an important point, however, and I commend the Pathway project in Lichfield. I have noted the hon. Gentleman’s invitation, as has the Minister for Crime Prevention, my hon. Friend Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) for one of us to come and visit. May I say what excellent work people in the Pathway project and similar schemes are doing on this important issue?”

Michael Fabricant commented that: “If the Project contact me, I would be more than happy to arrange a visit by a Home Office Minister so she or he can see the excellent work being undertaken in Lichfield and Burntwood. I was proud to hold the banner ‘Real Men don’t hit Women’ and was delighted so much money was raised for this Project.”

Darwin Hall Community Association AGM 16th November.

D

arwin Hall Community Association AGM will be taking place at Darwin Hall, Darwin Park, Heathcote Place, Lichfield on Saturday 16th November at 2:00 pm.

Darwin Hall is the community centre for the Darwin Park and Sandfields estates and Leomansley area, but it is used by many groups.

The AGM is an opportunity for residents may to view the facilities, learn how the hall runs, which groups use it and who manages it. They will also be able to meet and maybe join the team who are all volunteers. The AGM will cover how the team manages and uses funds and what plans they have for the future.

Burton Albion go from the Pitch to the Circuit

O

n Wednesday 18th September Midland Karting were visited by a club who are more used to a pitch than a circuit!

The entire Burton Albion FC First Team again visited the F1 style karting centre to enjoy an R&R and team building session.

After briefing and kitting up, the team took part in an ‘Endurance Event’ where individual karters race to beat each other’s lap times, with the top three teams gaining a place on the Winner’s Podium.

These three teams also received a Midland Karting trophy and bubbly.

The team had already visited Midland Karting last season, and when asked to pick a venue for the team building session wanted to return.

A Burton FC Spokesperson said: “It is the second time in as many seasons that the Burton Albion first team have been to Midland Karting and once again it was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience and the club looks forward to returning in the future.”

Midland Karting can be found at Wood End Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8NF. Tel: 01543 418419 www.midlandkarting.co.uk

Back row: Ian Sharps, Phil Edwards, Marcus Holness, Alex MacDonald, Dominic Knowles, Lee Bell, Michael Symes, Jordan Pickford. Front row: Marcus Harness, Dean Lyness, Robbie Weir, Billy Kee, Rene Howe, Adam Reed, Jack Dyer, Zander Diamond, Matty Palmer, Adam McGurk, Damien McCrory

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Gazette Woman

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GazetteWoman

Sian married Anton on Saturday 19th October at Drayton Manor Park Hotel. Pink'd Up and the married couple got to have a ride in a golf cart to some areas of the theme park for photos! Sian works as a carer and Anton is a warehouse operative. Image by Pink'd Up of Lichfield

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Gazette Weddings

Lucy Pamely and Michael Lynch were married at Holy Cross Church, Lichfield, on 7th September. The wedding reception was at The George Hotel, Lichfield.

Photography by Robert Yardley

GazetteWoman

Lucy Pamely and Michael Lynch were married at Holy Cross Church, Lichfield, on 7th September. The wedding reception was at The George Hotel, Lichfield.

Photography by Robert Yardley

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GazetteWoman

The wedding has been announced of Jack Whitmee of Lichfield to Miss Gemma Hunt on 22 June at St Peter's Church, Stonnall. The reception was held at The Premier Suite, Cannock. The couple honeymooned at Cape Verde Islands.

Hannah Skeens and Scott Parkin were married on 24th August at St. Chad's Church, Lichfield. The wedding reception took place at Netherstowe House.

Photography by Robert Yardley Page 66 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Gazette Weddings

Simon and Ashley held their civil wedding on a sunny Sunday on 1st September at Marston Hall Farm. Simon is a residential lettings manager and Ashley is a Senior Support worker. They honeymooned in Thailand. Thank you for choosing Pink'd Up Design & Photography to photograph your most special day.

Karina Evans and John Bennett were married on 31st August at Lichfield Registry Office.

Photography by Robert Yardley

Stung by the Great British Sewing Bee!

A

group of Lichfield Soroptimists were among many women stung by the ‘Great British Sewing Bee’ broadcast in April this year, but when one of them saw a poster for ‘Dress a Girl Around the World’ they decided to dust off their sewing machines. Dress a Girl Around the World aims to provide good clothes for girls in some of the poorest communities around the world.

Members of the club donated materials, clothes and bed linen for conversion into simple dresses. Meeting once a month the Lichfield Sewing Bee had an initial target of 100 dresses but this has already been increased! To date, they have made 95 dresses, 30 of which have already been taken to an orphanage in Kenya with a further 100 destined for Burkina Faso in February 2014.

Apart from recycling unwanted linens into practical dresses for girls around the world the sewing group is also proving to be quite therapeutic with members chatting along to the hum (or buzz) of their sewing machines. If you would like more information on the group please visit their website on www.sigbi.org/lichfield.

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The office Christmas party is a time to shine. Here, we’ve picked some of the best metallic jackets, dresses, bags, and accessories available on our high street and online this season. Why not go for subtle glitter with sequin accessories, or full on Studio 54 glamour with head-to-toe shimmer!

French Connection black sequin mini £182 - Available from Bijou at no.15

OASIS Gold Print Faux Fur Jacket £85

Kastur Jewels 22kt Natural Agate necklace - £100

Orelia Tiny Teardrop Hair Crown (ASOS) - £18

Dorothy Perkins Timeless nude sequin boot £45

Darling, Celeste top, gold sequin £59 - Available from Bijou at no.15

ASOS Sequin Stripes Dress - £120

Kastur Jewels 22kt Gold Plated Amethyst Bracelet - £70

Stockists www.newlook.com www.asos.com www.kasturjewels.com www.oasis-stores.com www.motelrocks.com www.bijou15.co.uk

Next issue look out for perfect Christmas Day Lunch dresses

Motel Gabby Iridescent Sequin Dress - £58

GazetteWoman

Whittington Apple Day great success!

Whittington and Fisherwick celebrated Apple Day on Saturday 19th October in fine style. The Apple Day celebrations took place at the monthly produce market which takes place on every 3rd Saturday of the month from April to November in the Bell Inn Car Park.

Fisherwick is the home of Britain’s favourite crab apple, John Downie, widely regarded as the finest for crab apple jelly, which was on sale along with lots of other apple goodies.

There was lots of fun and entertainment with appley food, drink, and children’s activities. In use for the first time was the new apple juicing kit which Whittington and Fisherwick Environment Group (WFEG) have acquired with the aid of a grant from County Councillor, Alan White, through his Local Community Fund.

Stone hairdressing would like to welcome two new stylists to the team. Laura and Linda, who have worked as Stylists in the Lichfield area for many years, bring with them a wealth of experience to the already well established Stone team.

Neil, the owner of Stone told us: "The existing team and I are really looking forward to working with Laura and Linda again, they will both support our ethos of service and technical excellence.”

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What’s on

Dining Ou

t

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD

Snow White Launches at Lichfield Garrick I must admit that for me Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without seeing at least one old fashioned ‘panto’. The Lichfield Garrick’s annual Christmas panto is rightly hugely popular, as they combine that traditional feel with enough to keep the whole audience engaged.

In October I attended the launch of the Garrick’s 2013 production, Snow White and the Magic Mirror, and met the stars of the show.

Ian Adams, author of the show told me: “This year we wanted to put on something for the children, but of course we’re not forgetting the grown-ups so there’ll be some slightly less pure stuff that goes over the children’s heads.

But in the main it’ll be all good clean fun.”

Ian is also performing in Snow White and the Magic Mirror, playing the Pantomime Dame Fraulein Strudel. This is the eighth Christmas show he has written for the Garrick, and his work continues to go down a storm with audiences.

“The show is adapted from the Brothers Grimm and the

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original story is very dark. But we’ve tried our best to make the show fun-filled with lots of old panto routines (we’re doing the legendary mirror gag for the first time) and lots of kiddy-friendly silliness. John Brooking’s set and costumes are lovely” (certainly the cossies on display are lavish) “and the whole thing is a new twist on tradition. I think it’s going to look breathtaking, kind of Sound of Music meets Transformers. Gothic is the word. It’s fun for all the family, and above all, it’s British. No one can do it like we can!”

Well-loved Midlands Today broadcaster Joanne Malin will star as evil Queen Eveline. Joanne is returning to the Garrick after her performance as the angelic Fairy Bow Bells in Dick Whittington.

I look forward to seeing it, and wish everybody involved the very best.

Snow White and the Magic Mirror is booking now and runs from 5th December 2013 until 5th January 2014. to

book go online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or phone the Box Office on 01543 412121 Phil Preece For more information about performance times, ticket prices and availability go to www.lichfieldgarrick.com or call the Box Office on 01543 412121 WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE SNOW WHITE AND THE MAGIC MIRROR To be the lucky family to win a family ticket (two adults/two children), simply answer our question and the first correct answer drawn out of the bag will be the winner.

Entries must reach us by November 20.

The question is: Who is the actor who will play Fraulein Strudel in the pantomime this year?

Answers on a postcard or a sealed down envelope to: Panto Competition, Gazette Magazine, PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ The winners will be notified by post.

Good luck!

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD What’s On November 2013 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.

Mon 4 Nov Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours 7.00pm - Tours start at various venues, please ask Lichfield Tourist Information Centre when booking. An evening to make your blood curdle and your spine tingle! The tour is rounded off with a visit to a local pub for a glass of mulled wine and a sausage roll. £6.25 per person - tickets must be booked in advance.

Tue 5 Nov – Tue 24 Dec Exhibition of Festive Treasure 10.00am to 4.00pm at Emporium Art Gallery. An exhibition of Christmassy creativity & festive festoonery!

Including unique treasures, affordable gifts and original artwork by local artists. Free entry.

Live Music at The Doghouse!

7.30pm for an 8.00pm start at the Crown Inn, Alrewas. Yes, the boys are back in town! (The pub renovations are on hold until the New Year). Martin Ryan and Stef Dziuba, along with assorted guests, will be raising the rafters again at their inimitable sing-along music session. Get there early for one of the best free nights out in the region but make sure you buy a raffle ticket to help cover the costs!

Tue 5 – Sat 9 Nov The Last Five Years 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. Jason Robert Brown's contemporary musical The Last Five Years tells the emotionally powerful story of two twenty-something New Yorkers who dive head first into a marriage fuelled by the optimism that comes with finding ‘the one'. Funny, honest and intimate, with an exuberantly romantic score.

Tue 5 Nov 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 6 Nov Heathland Management 10.30am to 3.00pm at Chasewater Country Park.

Our Countryside & Parks Conservation Group plays an important role in local nature conservation and we're always looking for volunteers to help out. Following on from the fantastic work of 2012 the CPCG will be working in the heathlands on the north shore of Chasewater, cutting down and clearing any trees which our conservation grazing cattle forgot to eat over the summer.

To book your free place, please contact the countryside team on Tel: 01543 308183 or email countryside@lichfielddc.gov.uk using the contact details below.

Directions: Meet at Chasewater Heath Station, which is located off the A5190 roundabout on the West side of Burntwood, WS7 3PG.

Murder Mystery Evening – ‘Final Encore’ At The George Hotel. Put your investigative skills to the test and enjoy an evening of murder, mystery and intrigue, courtesy of Murder Mystery Productions, which will unfold during dinner. The evenings are great fun, but, be warned, they sell out frighteningly fast! £32 per person. Contact the hotel for more information about package prices for overnight stays.

Bhangra Evening 7.45pm to 11.59pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. A joyful, colourful and interactive dance experience! Shake your shoulders, tap your toes, twist the light bulb and come and enjoy an evening of British Bhangra with Gabhru Panjab De, a renowned dance group who are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. £34 per person, includes a 3 course dinner, entertainment and disco until midnight, or call 0121 308 3751 to enquire about an overnight stay.

Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies 8.00pm at the Guildhall. Strong vocals, backed by outstanding instrumental back-up on guitar, cittern, fiddle, fretless bass, keyboards and Northumbrian pipes have made this band one of Britain's favourites on the folk/acoustic/Celtic circuit.

Sat 9 Nov Making Day 10.00am to 4.00pm at Cannock Wood & Gentleshaw Village Hall. This is for boys and girls of all ages, from tots to teens when they will be able to learn a new skill, making Clay Models, designing a Board Game, Crocheting, Knitting, making a Christmas Table Decoration, Christmas Card or a Christmas Tree Decoration, even Origami etc.

Book in for half or whole day by ringing Maureen 01543 683246. There will be a small charge for each craft to cover costs. Drinks will be on sale but please bring own packed lunch. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Proceeds will go to support the Village Hall.

1st Alrewas Scouts Bonfire & Fireworks Display 5.30pm to 8.30pm at Walkfield Park. Bring the family to the best display in the district.

Bonfire, fireworks, hot and refreshments, sparklers, glow sticks and more... STRICTLY NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED. The display is being run as a Scouting event. Therefore anybody attempting to bring alcohol into the event WILL be refused entry. Parking around the venue is limited, so if you do come by car, please ensure you arrive early, and park safely and with due consideration to pedestrians, residents and other road users.

Adults £3.00, Children £2.00 Sun 10 Nov Allied Special Forces Association 12 noon to 2.00pm at the NMA. Members of the Allied Special Forces Association will hold their annual service of commemoration onsite at the NMA in the Allied Special Forces Memorial Grove. For more information contact Mike Colton (Secretary) on 07929 118598 or email

Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

Wed 6 – Sat 9 Nov Miss Saigon 7.30om (and 2.30pm on Sat) at Lichfield Garrick. A West Bromwich Operatic Society Youth Theatre Production.

Thu 7 Nov Lichfield Farmers' Market 9.00am to 3.00pm at Market Square. A wonderful selection of wholesome locally-produced food. Also an excellent choice of hand-made arts and crafts and many other traditional items....

Fri 8 Nov Staffordshire Archaeological & Historical Society.

7.30pm at St Mary's Centre.

Early Neolithic Longhouses; lecture by Dr Simon Davies.

Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7.30pm. For more info call 01543 278989.

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YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD mikecolton@hotmail.com

book please call 01543 414822.

The Dylan Project 8.00pm at the Guildhall. An exhilarating tribute to the work of Bob Dylan, arguably one of the greatest post-war song writers in the English language.

Take four of Britain’s most talented folk rock musicians and a unique singer, add the repertoire of a genius and you’ve got the recipe for a dream band. The repertoire spans the whole of Dylan’s body of work – everything from ‘Highway 61’ and ‘I Want You’ to ‘Like a Rolling Stone’ and ‘Just Like a Woman’ – and new material is frequently brought into the set list.

Jazz Sunday Lunch 12 noon to 3.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Relax and enjoy a delicious three-course hot and cold buffet lunch in the Charter Suite, whilst listening to the Steve Steinhaus Jazz Quartet. The band spins their way through a wide swing and jazz repertoire including everything from Rat Pack classics to the Great American Songbook – it’s the perfect musical accompaniment to a leisurely family Sunday lunch. £24 per adult, £15 per child up to 12 (full pre-payment is required at the time of booking) The Singular Exploits of Sherlock Holmes 7.45pm to 10.30pm at The George Hotel. Take a step back in time to Baker Street and beyond! An affectionate homage to the world’s greatest fictional detective, this high energy one man show features Sherlock Holmes who regales us with highlights of his crimebusting career. Tickets are £8.75 per person. Please note that seats are unreserved. To

Little Aston Wildlife Day 11.00am – 4.00pm at Little Aston Recreation Ground.

Organised by Little Aston LARGA Committee. Games, Activities, Projects. Spend half an hour having fun & helping nature. Learn about the wildlife in your area & garden. Find out how to care for it through the winter.

Mon 11 Nov Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

Tue 12 – Sat 16 Nov Music for Reflection Celebrity Concert Series 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Join us for a series of concerts throughout autumn performed by distinguished cathedral musicians. Tickets £10 per concert, to book visit the Cathedral Shop, No. 9, The Close or call 01543 306150.

Whistle Down The Wind 7.30pm (and 2.30pm on Sat) at Lichfield Garrick. A Lichfield Operatic Society Production.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jim Steinman musical featuring wonderful orchestrations, has a very powerful story and includes songs; Whistle Down The Wind and No Matter What.

Wed 13 Nov Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

Lichfield U3A - Groups Interest Fair

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS DAY CARVERY

Booking and pre-ordering essential.

3 COURSES £29.99 per person THREE SITTINGS at 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

Non-refundable deposit required at time of booking.

BUSINESS & PRIVATE CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Bookings now being taken for parties in our conservatory which holds up to 30 people. Prices from £5.00 per head.

Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

BOXING DAY BUFFET - From 4.00pm. Tickets only £7.50 per person.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Our regulars are invited to bring in the New Year with us and enjoy a FREE buffet and glass of bubbly.

NEW YEAR’S DAY - Open as normal from 12 noon XMAS & NEW YEAR OPENING HOURS Christmas Eve 11am – Midnight • Christmas Day 11am – 3pm Boxing Day 11am to 10pm • New Year’s Eve 11am – 1am New Year’s Day 12noon – 11pm

Page 72 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

2.00pm at the Guildhall. This would be an ideal occasion for existing and would be members to see something of what our 40+ activity groups offer. For further details about our organization, which caters for the retired or semi-retired people in our area, call 01543 473189 or go to www.u3asites.org.uk/lichfield.

Julian Smith 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. Star of Britain’s Got Talent, Julian will be appearing with some Stars of the Future including Vicky Gordon and Steal the Stars.

Thu 14 Nov Two 2.30pm & 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio.

South Staffordshire College Performing Arts are back with the first part of a double bill of back to back plays. From Jim Cartwright. the writer of ‘The Rise and Fall of Little Voice', ‘Two' tells the tale of a bickering husband and wife and the dozen regulars who pass through their pub in an evening. Each vignette skilfully combines pathos and humour.

When a little boy is left behind by his father, a fragile reconciliation occurs as their own dark tragedy is revealed.

Fri 15 Nov Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society 7.30pm at St Mary's Centre.

Fin Cop - a Hilltop at War; lecture by Dr Clive Waddington. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7 30pm. For more info call 01543 278989.

Trivial Pursuits, A Comedy

By Frank Vickery 2.30pm & 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. A South Staffordshire College Performing Arts Department Production.

A summer evening's barbecue is the setting for a meeting of the Tamworth West Amateur Theatre Society. Next season's play is being announced but Nick, the Society's business manager, has promised a different show and the plum roles to four different people.

As the evening progresses each character's foibles and talents are revealed and the complex relationships between

players emerge as moments of pure slapstick and farce alternate with ones full of real drama and pathos.

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov Open Studio Art Exhibition 12 noon to 5.00pm at 13 St Michael Road, Lichfield WS13 6SN. An exhibition of exciting contemporary artwork by Henrietta Ellis and Celia Houghton. Free Entry.

Sat 16 Nov Zumba for Oxfam Sessions at 11.30am and 12.30pm at Holy Cross Church Parish Hall. Have fun and keep fit in aid of a great cause. £4.50 per session (any level of experience welcome).

Sessions led by an experienced instructor. Also ...

Cakes and other stalls: open to non-Zumba participants. An opportunity to buy those Xmas stocking fillers. Doors open at 11.00am.

Organized by Foxglove fundraising group for Oxfam in Lichfield.

The Magic Of The Movies 3.00pm & 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio.

Walsall Operatic Society are delighted to present another selection from their concert The Magic of the Movies in a relaxed, cabaret atmosphere. Songs range from Les Miserables to James Bond, Disney Classics to Chart toppers. The concert will feature our popular 'By Request' section in which audience members can choose what they'd like to hear!

Christmas at the Guildhall 9.30am to 3.00pm at the Guildhall. Cats Protection League fund raiser. There will be Christmas goods on offer including our 2014 calendar which features some of the cats and kittens that we have homed this year. There will be refreshments on offer, tombola, bric a brac, books, win-a-prize every time stalls for both adults and children. Why not come along, have a browse, buy a hot drink and a cake and bag some Christmas presents.

Wildlife Watch Group - Fungi 2.00pm to 4.00pm at the NMA. Activities and walks for children and young persons aged 8 to 14, led by Richard Thorpe, Arboretum's Volunteer Wildlife Officer. Admission:£1.00 per

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD child. Places are limited so booking is essential and priority will be given to existing members.

Appropriate clothing and footwear required for outdoor activities.

Contact: Parents of interested new members should initially contact 01283 792 333 or email info@thenma.org.uk.

Sun 17 Nov Sunday Lunch With A Touch Of Jazz 12.30pm to 3.0pm at Swinfen Hall Hotel. Now regularly featuring keyboard magic from Ruairi Edwards and Levi French. Our traditional Sunday lunch menu features all the family favourites.

The menu changes from week to week but sticky toffee pudding, and Margot’s wonderful ice creams and sorbets are regular features. Please ring reception on 01543 481494 to book your table.

Jazz Sunday Lunch At Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. See Sun 10 Nov for details.

Andy Rouse - Wild About Animals 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Andy Rouse is one of the most wellknown and respected wildlife photographers with a worldwide following. Andy travels the globe in order to capture some of the most dramatic and spectacular images of the world’s most dangerous and inaccessible creatures. It's sure to be an entertaining evening of fun, humour and awe-inspiring photography by one of the most charismatic personalities in the business.

Mon 18 Nov Lichfield Gruesome Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

and

Arboretum Story Circle 12 noon to 2.00pm at the NMA. Maria Whatton, award-winning professional storyteller, is once again leading the popular Arboretum Story Circle. This is a space where once a month participants can tell stories, myths, legends and folk tales from life. The group is open to those who want to tell stories as much as to those who want to listen to them - no obligation to speak, just come along and listen. New members are most welcome.

Admission free, but donations appreciated. Advance booking not required, just drop in.

Tue 19 Nov 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 £10 per session essential. including all materials and refreshments.

Lichfield Civic Society Meeting 7.45pm at St Mary’s Centre. The Marches, Cities and Mountain Scenery - A Photographic Trip to Italy by David K Jones ( Meeting in association with the Royal Geographic Society with IGB).

Non-members welcome (£3 at the door) The 24th Erasmus Darwin Memorial Lecture 2013 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Professor Anthony J Ryan OBE, Pro-vice Chancellor of the Faculty of Science & Professor of Physical Chemistry, The University of Sheffield. Project Sunshine tells the story of how scientists are working to reconnect us to the 'solar economy', harnessing the power of the sun to provide sustainable food and energy for a global population of 9 billion people. This achievement would end our dependence on 'fossilised sunshine' in the form of coal, oil and gas and remake our connection with the soil which grows our food.

Wed 20 Nov Lichfield Gruesome Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

and

Broads Travel’s Cruise Event 2.00pm to 4.30pm at The George Hotel. Hear from and chat to representatives from two of the world’s leading cruise lines, Fred Olsen and Hurtigruten about the latest itineraries, shore excursions and ships. Admission free, by ticket only – call Broads Travel on 01543 412768.

Fri 22 Nov Wine Tasting and Pudding Club 7.30pm at Cannock Wood & Gentleshaw Village Hall. This wonderful evening is planned for fun and to learn more about wines. There will be 3 wines to Page 73

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD taste with the starter course – Red, Rose and White. These will be tasted, discussed and talked through. There will be Wine Observation Sheets that can be filled in. Afterwards, there will be lots of different Puddings to try and if you like them you will be able to buy the recipe. Sounds like a perfect evening. Tickets are £12.00 from Maureen 01543 683246. Proceeds will go to support the Village Hall.

Sat 23 Nov St Stephens Church Christmas Fayre.

1.00pm to 4.00pm at Fradley Village Hall. There will be a variety of stalls, refreshments, games and a chance to meet Santa in his grotto. The event is in aid of the roof fund. More details are available from Gill on 07510133328. Free admission.

Night in the Trenches at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum An opportunity to experience a soldier’s life in the trenches in WWI. Uniformed re-enactors take you back to evoke the life lived and conditions experienced by our troops during the Great War. Guided tours 4.30 – 7.45pm. Prebooking essential. Adults £6, all concessions and children under 16 £4. Family ticket £15.

Wheelchair access. Please ring 24 hours in advance of event for c o n f i r m a t i o n . www.staffordshireregimentmuse um.com Made With Love Alzheimer's Fundraiser 11.00am to 3.00pm at the Guildhall. Prize raffle, number of stalls including handmade goodies, face painting and glitter tattoos. Half of all face painting & tattoo money will go to the charity. There will be cakes, children's goodies, candles, crafts. Over 25 talented crafters will have stalls.

Rock Night!!!

8.00pm at the Guildhall. Lichfield Arts is pleased to present an evening of high energy live indie rock courtesy of three storming bands. Headliners SN Dubstation will bring their unique reggae/dub/ska fusion. Veterans of the local music scene The Kissin' Kippers Fishin' Club (exThe Merry Pranksters and Phaser) are well known for their blend of electronic, raw folk/funk.

Page 74 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Plus exciting young up-andcoming three piece Wally Von Zipper, winner of ‘Staffordshire Rocks 2013’. Be ready for an immense night out!

Sun 24 Nov Christmas Lights Switch On At Lichfield Market Square.

Christmas market from 12 noon with afternoon entertainment followed by traditional carols and switch on at 5pm and Santa's arrival.

KitchenAid Kapers!

At the Kitchen Shop. This demo is the same day as the Lichfield Christmas Light Switch on! So there will be lots of entertainment on for all the family! KitchenAid have very kindly offered to demonstrate their iconic mixers and food processors in-store!

Come in and try these brilliant machines out! There will be deals on the day too!

Christmas Market 10.00am to 4.00pm at Moor Hall Hotel and Spa. Come along and browse over 30 stalls stacked with wonderful gift ideas for Christmas. There will be jewellery, candles, food and wine, greetings cards, ceramics, winter clothing and Christmas decorations, plus you can meet the donkeys from Sutton Park’s Donkey Sanctuary and enjoy a delicious hog roast accompanied by a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie!

Lichfield Sinfonia Autumn Concert 7.30pm at the Guildhall. Concert in aid of the Musicians Benevolent Fund. See separate article for details.

Go to www.lichfieldsinfonia.co.uk for tickets priced at £7.

Tue 26 Nov Christmas Wreath Making Workshops.

6.30pm to 9.30pm at Erasmus Darwin House. You will be instructed in making your own fabric wreath to take home for the festive season. Ticket £20 which will include all materials.

Refreshments will be provided.

Spaces are limited so we advise booking early. Call 01543 306260.

Wed 27 & Thu 28 Nov Christmas Flower Arranging Demonstrations At The George Hotel. See some

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN LICHFIELD stunning ideas for decorating your home this Christmas. £23 per person, includes a 3 course carvery lunch. To book call 01543 414822.

Thu 28 Nov Heathland Management 10.00am to 2.00pm at Chasewater Country Park.

See Wed 6 Nov for more details.

Fri 29 Nov Staffordshire Archaeological and Historical Society 7.30pm at St Mary's Centre.

Drowned Landscapes of the North Sea; lecture by EmmaJayne Hopla, Birmingham University. Visitors welcome, £3 at the door. Refreshments available from 7 30pm. For more info call 01543 278989.

Murder Mystery Evening ‘Midnight Ramblers’ At Best Western The George Hotel. The story of ‘Midnight Ramblers’ will unfold during dinner and it will be up to you to work out “whodunnit” by questioning the characters and examining the clues. The evenings are great fun, but, be warned, they sell out frighteningly fast! £32 per person. Contact the hotel for more information about package prices for overnight stays.

Sarah Gillespie 8.00pm at the Guildhall.

Sarah's music is a fusion of jazz, folk and blues, knitted together by poetic, streetwise lyrics. With support act Little Sparrow. Sarah has performed live on BBC Radio 4’s Women’s Hour, been interviewed by Andrew Marr on ‘Start the Week’ and her music has been played on numerous radio stations worldwide including BBC Radios 2 and 3.

An Evening of Music & Comedy with Just Us 6.30pm at Whittington Village Hall. An evening of Music and Comedy provided by 'Just Us', featuring Music, Singing, Sketches and Comedy Musical Spots in aid of Cats Protection.

Lichfield and Tamworth branch is made up entirely of volunteers, and like most small Cats Protection branches, the branch doesn't have a rescue centre. Tickets £12.50 – go to www.cats.org.uk/lichfield/

Sat 30 Nov & Sun 1 Dec The Curborough Christmas Carnival 10.00am to 5.30pm at Curborough Hall Farm Centre.

A Countryside weekend full of shopping like the Farm has never seen! A shopping experience with some of the best designers and makers in the area, hot locally sourced food in the indoor & outdoor food bar, mulled wine and cider to keep you warm whilst perusing the stalls, Santa, snow, and quite a large amount of special and sparkly coming your way. Come and say hi to our Ice King and Queen and our Fire Fairies!

We’ve booked snow too so watch out for the giant snow balls.

Sat 30 Nov Christmas Concert by the Credo Choir 7.30pm at The Heritage Centre, St Mary’s Church.

Tickets are now available from the Tourist Information Desk at the Centre for this evening of well-known songs, seasonal songs and carols. Some audience participation is envisaged! Tickets are priced at £7.50 for adults (including a glass of mulled wine or a soft drink and a mince pie) and £3 for children. For further information please call into the Centre or telephone 01543 256611.

Sun 1 - Tue 3 Dec Christmas Voices 7.45pm Best Western The George Hotel. Intimate Theatre presents Christmas Voices, now an essential part of the Christmas celebrations at the hotel. A specially designed compilation of light hearted poetry, music and drama for the festive season which combines old favourites with originals. The admission price of £10.25 includes a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine! To book please call 01543 414822.

Sun 1 Dec Lichfield Vintage Fair and Flea Market 10.00am to 3.00pm at the Guildhall. Absolutely Vintage Darling is pleased to bring a vintage fair and flea market to the historic town of Lichfield.

Clothing, memorabilia, china, glass, jewellery, home wares,

kitchenalia and much much more!

Beginner's rag rug workshop 10.00am, 12 noon and 2.00pm at Beacon Park. Hessian and peg provided, bring some old clothes for rags. Booking essential. Age 8+/ adult. In the Discovery Hub (by the bowling greens). Each session lasts up to 2 hours. £5 per person.

Mon 2 Dec Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours See Mon 4 Nov for details.

Tue 3 Dec Neaten and Natter See Tue 5 Nov for details.

Wed 4 & Thu 5 Dec Christmas Voices 7.30pm at Middleton Hall.

Words & music for the festive season presented by Middleton Hall Trust and Intimate Theatre. Tickets £12.50 includes mulled wine, mince pie, tea and coffee.

Performance starts at 8pm. All proceeds go towards the restoration and management of the hall and grounds to ensure the aims of the trust are met.

Wed 4 Dec Bird Box Building 10.30am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. The Countryside and Parks Conservation Group volunteers carry out a variety of conservation tasks across the district. This month the group will be in Beacon Park. With another year of work completed, it’s time to celebrate in traditional CPCG style with the annual CPCG’s Christmas Party and winter bird box building event. All tools and materials provided as we try to beat last year’s total of building 70 bird boxes in 4 and a half hours! For further details call 01543 308183 or email denice.deverall@lichfielddc.go v.uk.

Thu 5 Dec Darwin House by Candlelight At Erasmus Darwin House.

Take the opportunity to view the museum as it is decorated for Christmas and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie while you do it. Also included in the price is a candle lit tour of the cellars. Tickets are £6 and as cellar tours will be timed, booking is advised.

Fri 6 Dec – Sun 5 Jan Snow White and The Magic Mirror Various times at Lichfield Garrick. Come along and find out just who is the fairest in the land in the Lichfield Garrick’s latest Christmas Pantomime!

Starring Joanne Malin as Queen Evilene with Katie Marie as Snow White, Daryl Armstrong as Prince Harry and Ian Adams as Dame Fraulein Von Strudel.

Wed 11 Dec An evening of Traditional songs & carols 6.30pm at Middleton Hall – presenting the fabulous Caroliners, ladies choir from Castle Bromwich.

Performance starts at 7pm.

Tickets £7 (members £5). All proceeds go towards the restoration and management of the hall and grounds to ensure the aims of the trust are met.

Contact details for listed venues: Beacon Park – Lichfield WS13 6QZ. Tel: 01543 308869 Cannock Wood & Gentleshaw Village Hall Buds Rd, Cannock Wood WS15 4NB The Crown Inn - Post Office Rd, Alrewas DE13 7BS Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre Curborough Hall Farm, Watery Lane, Lichfield WS13 8ES Darwin Community Hall – Darwin Park, Burntwood, Lichfield WS13 6RQ Emporium Art Gallery 32-34 Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR Erasmus Darwin House Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD Fradley Village Hall Church Lane, Fradley WS13 8NL The George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 The Guildhall - Bore St,

Lichfield WS13 6LU. Tel: 01543 262223 Holy Cross Parish Hall Upper St John's St, Lichfield 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 - St Mary's Heritage Centre, Market Square, Lichfield.

Tel: 01543 412112 Little Aston Recreation Ground - Forge Lane, Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3UB. Middleton Hall – Middleton, Tamworth B78 2AE Moor Hall Hotel & Spa Moor Hall Drive, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 6LN National Memorial Arboretum - Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR DE13 7AR St Michael’s Church Hall - St Michael's Rd, Lichfield WS13 6SN Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 The Staffordshire Regiment Museum Whittington Barracks, Lichfield WS14 9PY Tel:01543 434394 Swinfen Hall Hotel – Swinfen, Lichfield WS14 9RE Walkfield Park – Alrewas DE13 7EW Whittington Village Hall Langton Crescent, Lichfield WS14 9LR.

Page 75

Whether you’re looking for a top Mojito, a magnificent martini or a quintessential cosmo, somewhere in town there is a friendly, smartly clad bartender waiting to mix just for you – and that place is Le Reve.

Situated on the popular Bird Street just a stones throw away from the famous three spired cathedral, Le Reve specialises in fresh fruit cocktails, fine wines, champagnes and freshly ground coffee. From our kitchen, we offer starters, mains and desserts with our mains being platters from around the world.

Le Reve is open for all occasions and is the perfect place to come and grab a coffee, a fresh cocktail or a bite to eat from our lunchtime menu or something a little more filling from our evening menu.

In the short time that Le Reve has been open it has gained a reputation for producing quality cocktails and creating a relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy them. With the premises split into two rooms, with one being more vibrant and the other a more intimate relaxed ambiance.

Through the week a subtle funky laid back vibe is adopted throughout, with Friday and Saturday being handed over to our resident DJ who creates that perfect weekend atmosphere.

Then throw into the mix our in house live musicians on a monthly basis.

Our evening menu has been themed on platters from around the world and is presented on unique drift wood boards. So whether you want to sample the tastes of America or the fine cuisines of Italy, Le Reve has a selection to suit. Even if it’s just a light bite we offer great smaller plates for nibbles. All our menus, drinks and food have been created with sharing in mind and experiencing new tastes, so why not come in and try our fresh fruit cocktails and a few of our tasty platters and not forgetting our selection of desserts.

Le Reve is open 7 days a week and is available for private hire or private events, so if you’re going to be celebrating your birthday or a special occasion then give us a call and see how

we can make your event extra special.

Le Reve is also now taking Christmas bookings, so whether you want to have your Christmas party meal here from our Christmas menu or join us for a Christmas cocktail or two, we can cater for all.

Our Lunchtime menu is available from 12pm-3pm with plates from just ÂŁ2.95.

If you would like to take advantage of our express lunch service, simply phone your order through and prepay by card and we will have it on the table waiting, just phone us before 10.30am on the day.

Enjoy Le Reve Wednesday - 2 platters and *2 cocktails for the set price of ÂŁ24.99 *selected cocktails Come and sample our cocktail menu every Sunday night with selected cocktails available at two for one. ** Christmas Bookings Now Being Taken Contact details 26 Bird Street, Lichfield, WS13 6PR www.lereve-bar.com info@lereve-bar.com

01543 253 663

FACEBOOK: Le Reve Lichfield

TWITTER: LeReveBar

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Enquiries to paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Tel :- 01543 302748 Magazine Advertisement

Sales Vacancy Did you enjoy our magazine?

Do you think you have what it takes to sell advertising for us?

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

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

The role requires the ability to communicate with business people at all levels as well as work to given deadlines.

Hours and salary are negotiable and an immediate start is available. Some newspaper ad sales or similar previous experience would be an advantage, but some training on the job can be arranged.

The successful candidate should be a car owner with a clean driving licence as the role calls for constant access to retailers and services throughout this area. Some telephone sales will be involved in the sales process.

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

Contact by email: paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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