October 2012 Lichfield Gazette

THE MAGAZINE REFLECTING LIFE IN THE CITY OF LICHFIELD

OCTOBER 2012 ISSUE 43

GAZETTE WOMAN • NEWS • COMPETITIONS • WHAT’S ON • LITERARY FESTIVAL

COLLIS D.I.Y 15% OFF ALL DISPLAY BUILDINGS QUEENS DRIVE, CHASETOWN, BURNTWOOD WS7 4QF www.collissheds.co.uk TEL: 01543 686370 FAX: 01543 675221

10% OFF SHEDS L IST PRICE

ESTABLISHED OVER 50 YEARS SERVING THE COMMUNITY

Opening Times:

Mon-Fri 8am-6.00pm Sat 8am-5.30pm, Sun 9.30am-1pm

The Floor you’ve always dreamed of

The move away from carpets to laminate flooring was a key feature of the last decade. As we move through the next, other flooring trends will come in to play. In a world of information overload, individual style and taste have been difficult to nurture. After years of development, Tredmark have come up with their part of the jigsaw puzzle. They have developed an artisan approach to real wood flooring – without the fuss, without the mess and hassle and without the large price tag.

With the introduction of their Naturally Oak range in 2010, Tredmark can create any colour, texture and type of real oak floor you can think of. Their secret is to apply a series of treatments to their raw oak floors, topped by special high performance oils – each floor is bespoke, but priced at the same level or less than most off the shelf floors that you find most in DIY and wood flooring chains. What is more you can match to a bit of furniture you love, or your doors or banisters… the list is endless.

There is no disruptive and messy finishing of the floors in your home because they arrive at your door pre-finished and ready to be fitted by Tredmark’s expert installers Tredmark can also provide oak skirtings and architraves to match your new floor. Indeed doors and staircases can also be incorporated into the same colour scheme.

If you are considering a new wood floor and don’t know where to start, it might be worth a trip Tredmark. At worst you’ll come away with a lot more knowledge than you had – at best you’ll come away with the floor you’ve always dreamed of.

Page 3

Lichfield

G azette

October 2012

contents Win Lunch for two people at

6

Netherstowe House 11 Win tickets to the Garrick 12 Bonny Baby Competition 36 Win tickets to The Daily Telegraph Cruise Show NEC 38 Gazette Woman 48 Dining Out 50 What’s On, plus Literature Festival

Editor’s Notes Mocked by fate I was recently buttering toast in our kitchen early one quiet Sunday morning when, you guessed it, I dropped it. To my horror it did that thing that only buttered bread or toast can do…it landed face down. It was the last piece of bread and I had to make do with an ugly crusty piece, which Sod’s Law got stuck in the toaster, sending up a pall of smoke which, Sod’s Law set off the smoke detector and scared me half to death, particularly as I didn’t realise someone had replaced the battery the day before.

Now the Sod’s Law thing, or Murphy’s Law as it is termed in America, is an interesting phenomenon to observe. For instance - I moved about fifteen miles to a new house and landed a plum job five minutes from my original home. ‘If it can happen, it will happen.’

That is the theory. Ever dropped keys down a drain? Got a flat tyre in the pouring rain?

Sod’s Law is demonstrated by Ludwig van Beethoven's loss of hearing, loss of hearing is bad fortune for anyone, but it is Sod's Law that it would happen to a brilliant composer.

Or, Adolph Coors III, who was allergic to beer, as well as being the heir to the Coors beer empire-being allergic to beer is bad fortune for many, but it is Sod’s Law that someone allergic to beer would inherit a beer empire. Heaven forbid!

Don’t confuse Murphy’s Law with Muphry's Law, an old adage that states that; "if you write anything criticising spelling, there will be a fault of some kind in what you have writ". Sod’s Law eh?

Yours truly Paul Oakley Editor

FRONT COVER

Win Tickets to see Alice in Wonderland at Lichfield Garrick this Christmas.

PAGE 11

Vintage Shopping Extravaganza to transform the streets of Lichfield.

PAGE 16. BY ILONA ZIELINSKA / ELONAPHOTOGRAPHER.COM

contributors

• • • •

Caz Jones Laura Bowcutt PG Mitchell Robert Yardley

• • • •

Joss Musgrove Knibb David Wood Dan Mitchell Carl Knibb

contact the Gazette see page 55 ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MAGAZINE Lichfield Gazette is your local monthly magazine distributed to more than 17,500 homes and businesses in and around Lichfield. Distribution area covers Lichfield City, Alrewas, Fradley, Shenstone, Hammerwich, Kings Bromley, Longdon, Whittington, Armitage & Handsacre A limited number of the Lichfield Gazette are available and can be purchased at 90p from the Heritage Centre at St Mary’s in the Market Place. All proceeds go to charity.

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

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

Page 4 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

SALE NOW ON 25% OFF STOCK ITEMS TABLES, CHAIRS, OCCASIONAL FURNITURE, LAMPS ETC...

Lichfield Round Table welcomes very useful new addition

L

ichfield Round Table has revealed a new addition to their club - a fully liveried Mitsubishi Pajero to help them during their Christmas collections with Santa.

The vehicle replaces an ageing Land Rover which served the group for many years during their annual Christmas Santa Float collections, travelling around Lichfield District, bringing Santa to children's doorsteps.

Lichfield Round Table is a non-profit social club for men aged 18-45 that raises over £10,000 each year which is then distributed to local good causes, many of which help out with the collections during the festive season. Following

Lichfield based Community Theatre Company presents Twysted Musicals!

T

wysted Rootz, a Lichfield based community theatre company is presenting a ‘Twysted Night of Musicals’ on the 19th and 20th of October.

The aim of the show is to transport the audience to the West End and Broadway, with songs from some of the best musicals ever performed from Les Miserables to Wicked, and Chicago to Avenue Q! The performances are being staged at the Emmanuel Christian Centre (WS13 6TS). This is Twysted Rootz’ second show where they hope to guarantee a great night out for all ages.

Performances are on Friday 19th October at 7:30pm and Saturday 20th October at 2:30pm and 7:30pm The Emmanuel Christian Centre can be found at Netherstowe, Lichfield. WS13 6TS For tickets or more information please contact Osa Orchard on 077 383 966 20.

an extensive refurbishment of the Santa float recently, the new Lichfield Round Table vehicle completes the upgrade and will help provide a true Christmas experience to local kids for many years to come. Each year the group publishes Santa's exact daily routes online and in local news outlets, so nobody need miss out on the experience.

Lichfield Round Table will shortly be releasing details on how local good causes can apply to help out in this year's collections - enabling eligible groups to receive funds raised.

Application forms can be obtained by emailing tableau250@hotmail.co.uk You can find out more by visiting Lichfield Round Table online at LichfieldRoundTable.co.uk, on Facebook (facebook.com/lichfieldroundtable) or on twitter (@lichfieldrt)

2 FOR 1 FROM £69 With Specsavers’ great 2 for 1 offer, you can choose any two pairs of glasses from our £69 to £125 ranges, and pay for just one. That includes all designer glasses from just £99.

You’ll get our standard PENTAX single vision lenses with a scratch resistant treatment in both pairs at no extra charge. 1.5 scratch resistant varifocal, bifocal and other single vision lenses are also available in the offer, you just pay for the lenses in your first pair.

Cannot be used with other offers. Second pair from the same price range or below and to the same prescription.

Extra Options available at an additional charge on both pairs. Excludes safety eyewear.

Ends 1st November 2012.

SKU 25381634

£10 EYE TEST

Valid for one test booked within 3 months.

Present voucher at time of test. One per person, at Specsavers Lichfield only. Cannot be exchanged for cash or used with other offers.

FREE EYE TEST FOR OVER 60’S Code LG/07/12

Page 5

GazetteNews

LUNCH

Blythe Farm Open Day O

n Sunday 23 September the tenants of Blythe House Farm opened their doors to the public. Following the success of last year Blythe House Farm at Hamstall Ridware hosted splendid day helped in part by the fine weather and mostly by the willingness of all to make it a success.

Farm owner George Astley said, “It was a good day and we had over 500 people to enjoy the displays and demonstrations, as well as look at the vintage and retro cars, sample some local make beer, see live birds of prey and speak to the many businesses who work in the variety of businesses in this

vibrant community. We also collected £1050 in aid of the Canine Partners Charity. Thank you to all who contributed and those who worked hard to make it a success.”

The Canine Partner did a demonstration of how their trained dogs are able to help people with household chores etc. There were kitchen designers, artists, jewellers, car repairs and car hire as well as Blythe Brewery there on. We look forward to the next open day and emphasise these businesses are open throughout the year.

Blythe House Farm, Hamstall Ridware near Rugeley WS15 3QQ

Canine Partners

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

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

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

He might be in an advertisement or in a story, can you find him? When you have found him (he looks like the image at the top of the page) simply tell us which page he is on for a chance to win. Write the page number on a card or the back of a sealed envelope along with your name and address and send it to us no later than 20th October 2012 to ‘Minster The Cat Competition’ PO

Ride to the Wall M

Sophie Jordan - Staffordshire Birds of Prey

Deb Walker artist

Vintage Cars Page 6 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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

Good luck!!

Minster was on page 30 in the October issue well done to Mrs L Webb, Truto Close, Lichfield.

any thousands of motorcyclists from around the country will travel to the National Memorial Arboretum for the fifth annual Ride to the Wall(RTTW) motorcycle event on Saturday 6th October.

RTTW, now a registered charity, gives motorcyclists the opportunity to show their support for the Armed Forces and is the UK's largest gathering of its type with a dedicated Service of Remembrance. Individuals, groups and chapters from particular organisations, such as regional Harley Owners Groups,The Royal British Legion Riders Branch and a large number of other owners groups and motorcycle clubs are among those taking part.

For this year’s Ride there will be eight start points around the country, to allow riders to gather with kindred spirits for the event, including a nonmotorway alternative for those who prefer to ride on A-Roads. Routes cover a distance of around 100 miles For details of how to register online, the starting locations and times, and other information about the event visit the RTTW website www.rttw.org.uk.

Page 7

GazetteNews

L

DECO presents ‘Titan, Myth & Legend’ at Lichfield Cathedral

ichfield Cathedral will ring to the sounds of its very own Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra once again on Saturday 27th October, with a concert entitled ‘Titan, Myth & Legend’.

The centrepiece of an evening exploring three of the greatest composers is Mozart’s Symphony No. 40. Mozart’s legendary status extends from his prodigious boyhood talent to the mysteries around his unfinished Requiem – well known thanks to the film Amadeus. The ‘Great’ symphony has its own puzzles, with hints at the jolly humour of comic opera, the bleakness of Mozart’s final years, and even a romantic mood.

Before this, conductor Philip Scriven will introduce audiences to contrasting works by two other musical greats.

Beethoven’s Prometheus Overture sets the scene for a famous Greek myth, with a

positively fizzing musical portrayal of the God who brought spiritual fire to mankind.

Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll is the best possible introduction to the heady music of this heavy-weight of the opera world: infectiously tuneful, swooningly romantic and tear-jerkingly beautiful. Written by Wagner as a birthday present to his wife.

Titan, Myth & Legend takes place on Saturday 27th October at 7.30pm in Lichfield Cathedral To book tickets: visit Lichfield Cathedral Bookshop, 9 The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD in person, call 01543 306150 or email bookshop@lichfield-cathedral.org.

Prices: £15 adults; £12 concessions (OAPs & students); £5 children (reserved numbered seats in the nave) / £12 adults; £10 concessions; £4 children (unreserved seats in the side aisles)

Cure Fashion Show 2012 Sunday 7th October at the Guild Hall, Lichfield, Cure will be showcasing their Autumn/Winter 2012 designer collections, raising money for Jeans for Genes, a charity which provides funding for the care and support of children with genetic disorders.

Worth Brothers bar opens at 4:30pm. Show starts at 5pm. Canapes by Coco Meli, Hair Demonstration by Obsession Salon and Spa. Free goodie bag. Fantastic prizes to be won in the raffle. All guests are invited to an after show party at the store.

Tickets £10 available from Cure and www.cureuk.com Or call at 31 Bore Street, Lichfield, Staffs. WS 13 6LZ tel: 01543 255020 info@cureuk.com

T

Lichfield Cathedral Welcomes Girl Choristers

L

ichfield Cathedral recently a wide experience of choral performance announced that on Sunday 23rd and enable them to apply for choral September, at Choral Evensong, Girl scholarships to universities and colleges.

Choristers were received into the 800If you would like to find out about the year old Choral Foundation for the very possibility of someone you know becoming first time. The choral Foundation has a Chorister, simply get in touch with the been singing the services in the admissions team at Lichfield Cathedral Cathedral since 1315 making this an School on 01543 306 168. Children are occasion of great historical invited to experience the delights of significance. Choirs of boys and men chorister life by joining in the free choral have sung in English cathedrals for workshop days on January 12 (boys) and centuries. The country’s first Cathedral 26 January (girls).

Girl Choristers were established at For more information about the Girls Salisbury Cathedral 21 years ago and Choir please visit English cathedrals have been gradually http://lichfieldcathedralschool.co.uk/girls_ch following suit ever since. oir.html Many choirs containing girls have sung in Lichfield Cathedral before now, but none of them has been a formal part of the Cathedral Foundation. Since September 2006, there has been a scholarship-based Girls’ Choir at Lichfield Cathedral School which has sung occasional services. The members of this choir will now be known as Lichfield Cathedral Girl Choristers and will sing at 5.30pm every Monday during term time, and on two weekends per term.

They will also sing at the busiest periods in the year, notably Christmas and Easter.

The girls will all be music scholars attending Lichfield Cathedral School, and will sing as choristers between the ages of Head Girl Chorister Alice Windsor (right) and Deputy Head Girl Chorister Beth Jacob (left) 10 and 15. They will then be able to lead the Lichfield Cathedral Girl Choristers progress into the Cathedral School’s Copyright Lichfield Cathedral School prestigious Youth Choir. This will give them

Expanded Festival Feast for Book Lovers

his year’s Lichfield Literature Festival will be bigger than ever, with 50 visiting speakers and over 20 workshops and education events providing a literary feast from Saturday 29 September to Sunday 7 October. In addition to the George Hotel, the festival has expanded to fill a new, 300-capacity marquee venue, sponsored by Miller. The Festival marquee will be erected on the site of the old Friary, making Lichfield Literature accessible to more people than ever before.

British comedy legend Barry Cryer is the guest for this year’s Literary Dinner, while Perrier-award winner Jenny Eclair and alternative comic Alexei Sayle also bring their unique brands of humour to Lichfield. Other names booked to appear include former royal correspondent Jennie Bond, radio star Fi Glover, Times columnist Matthew Parris, controversial Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali, broadcaster and journalist Andy Kershaw, humorist and raconteur Gervase Phinn, the Guardian’s brilliant parodist John Crace, and, marking Charles Dickens’ 200th anniversary, his great great great granddaughter: Lucinda Dickens Hawksley.

Fans of Only Fools and Horses should book a date with Boycie himself, as John Challis comes to talk about his acting career; and followers of Eastenders and Gavin and Stacey will need to set aside an evening with Larry Lamb.

Peace envoy and one-time hostage Terry Waite will talk about his extraordinary life, while modern politics is represented by former cabinet minister Peter Hain, talking about his journey from militant anti-apartheid Page 8 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Lichfield Literature events are presented by Lichfield campaigner in South Africa to a place at the heart of Festival and held in association with The George the British Establishment. Lord Digby Jones closes the Festival with his views on how the British economy can Hotel.

For more information, call 01543 306270 or go to be jolted back to life.

History lovers will be able to enjoy biographies of Sir www.lichfieldfestival.org www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk SEE FULL PROGRAMME ON PAGE 54 Francis Walsingham, Prince Albert, and Lichfield’s own local luminary Erasmus Darwin. The stories of ancient and Roman Britain, the Pharaohs, and the myths of the Mummy’s curse will give plenty of succour to those who prefer history with an ancient flavour.

Anyone wondering about the practicalities of actual time travel should set a date to see Brian Clegg reveal How to Build Your Own Time Machine, while those of a scientific or mathematical bent will also enjoy discussions on the nature of infinity, modern developments in neuroscience, and most importantly, what Image courtesy of www.barrycryer.co.uk maths reveals about sport.

Page 9

GazetteNews

Tippers Host Celebrity Chef

O

n Saturday 1st September Tippers bathrooms and kitchens on Lichfield’s Britannia Enterprise Park hosted two free cookery demonstrations by celebrity chef Nick Nairn. Part of the showroom was cleared to make room for seating and the 100 strong crowd for both shows saw Nick Nairn expertly prepare a sumptuous 3 course feast in the purpose built demonstration kitchen featuring a top of the range Falcon Induction range cooker.

The Ready Steady Cook and Great British Menu star delighted with dishes including homemade spaghetti with crab, chilli, garlic, lemon and parsley, followed by tarragon chicken with morels and chestnut mushrooms served with sautéed potatoes and runner beans with an impressive raspberry soufflé for dessert.

Amy Tipper said: “The demonstrations

O

were wonderful, Nick was so engaging involving the audience throughout and making beautiful food seem easy! I was so inspired I went home that evening and made a raspberry soufflé something I never would have attempted before, it even rose! Tippers are proud to have been involved in the first ever Lichfield Food Festival and are already looking forward to next year!”

Get Britain Working Event On Friday 19th October 2012 (10am – 2pm) There will be a chance to meet companies and organisations all in one place who have available real jobs and apprenticeships. Plus · Volunteering Opportunities with local charities.

Intimate Theatre at the Birthplace Museum

· Work Experience opportunities with local Employers. · Advice on CV and interview skills. · Help and advice on looking for Work. · Advice on starting your own business.

OPEN TO ALL The Guildhall 38, Bore Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LU.

n Saturday 6th October the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum will be celebrating the nation’s favourite playwright with an evening of entertainment from popular local performers ‘Intimate Theatre’.

During the event the audience will be taken on an entertaining wander through the Bard’s works in ‘A Pocket Full of Bricks’, compiled by David Titley and staged in honour of the world Shakespeare Festival this year.

Samuel Johnson was one of the greatest Shakespearean commentators of his day, filling his famous Dictionary with quotes from the Bard. Tickets for the performance cost £6.50 and include a drink. For bookings or to find out more please call 01543 264 972, email sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk or pop in to the Museum on the corner of Market Street and Breadmarket Street.

Gardening Column

with Byron Lewis from G Scapes Plant Centre in Lichfield

T

he start of the autumn brings with it the change in leaf colour of many of our popular trees and shrubs. We’ll take a look at some examples in this month’s gardening column…

Starting off with Acers (Maples). The Acer family contains trees ranging from the large Field Maple, through to the smaller more ornate Japanese Maples.

All are deciduous and from the start of October, their foliage takes on some fantastic shades of copper, rust and bronze.

Deciduous Viburnum varieties such as Viburnum plicatum ‘Mariesii’ has quite plain dark green leaves and white flowers during the summer months but in the autumn, the foliage turns a fiery red colour before falling.

Also on the red theme are leaves of many Cornus (Dogwood) varieties. Both of these shrubs are ideal for the back of a border and will tolerate lots of different soil types and positions. Many Cornus varieties are also grown for winter stem colour, which is revealed once the leaves have dropped. Try Cornus ‘Sibirica’ for red stems and Cornus ‘Flaviramea’ for bright yellow branches. These can look great when planted together.

Other suggestions for plants which will turn colour include Trees like Liquidambar, many of the ornamental Cherry (Prunus) varieties, and the Page 10 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

grow your own!

Byron Lewis is Retail Manager at G-Scapes Plant Centre at Curborough Craft Centre, Lichfield. 01543 256401. www.g-scapes.co.uk or find us on Facebook & Twitter.

G-Scapes are running a Coach Trip to the National Arboretum at Westonbirt, Gloucestershire on Saturday October 6th to see the Autumn leaf colours – there are a few spaces left. To book a seat, call Byron on 01543 256401. Tickets are £39 per person.

Mountain Ash (Sorbus) varieties. These all have exceptional leaf colour as the nights draw in.

Some evergreen shrubs and trees can also react with colder autumn days by changing leaf colour – examples here are the Trachelospernum (Star Jasmine), a climber with scented white flowers, whose leaves are tinged with red when the temperature drops. Some conifer varieties also do this – Thuja ‘Rheingold’ turns amber, while Cryptomeria turns from Green to Bronze at this time of year.

Next month, we focus on fruit trees and bushes, with some advice and information on the easy way to

1/2 Price Pack of Spring Flowering Bulbs (up to the value of 4.99) Offer valid until 31/10/12 One voucher per customer, no photocopies, subject to management discretion.

Alice in Wonderland launches at the Garrick T

he stars of Lichfield Garrick’s upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland graced the theatre’s stage on Thursday 6 September 2012 to launch a spectacular festive show.

The cast, headed up by Steve Huison (who plays the White Rabbit), gathered at the theatre in full costume to get into character ready for this year’s performance. Set in a Christmas circus, Lewis Carroll’s timeless story will take the whole family on a journey to Wonderland.

Star of screen and stage, Steve played Mr Byron in CBBC’s hit TV show, The 4 O’clock Club, and is also known by millions for his role as Eddie Windass in Coronation Street and Lomper in the smash hit film, The Full Monty.

Adrian Jackson, Lichfield Garrick’s Artistic and Executive Director, said: “Alice in Wonderland will be the most amazing festive show the Lichfield Garrick has ever staged, with the whole theatre being transformed into a Christmas Wonderland. From the moment members of the audience step over the threshold into the theatre, they will be entertained by circus performers, and there will be opportunities for children to try out circus skills. I am delighted Steve Huison is

Win Win Win We’ve got a family ticket (2 adults 2 children) to go and see Alice in Wonderland at the Lichfield Garrick on Fri

playing the White Rabbit. You may even bump into the White Rabbit before the show as he runs around telling everyone not to be late!”

Designed especially for the Lichfield Garrick by the creative team behind 2011’s record breaking production of A Christmas Carol, the popular tale with a circus twist will follow Alice as she falls down the rabbit hole into a wondrous world of mirth and magic.

Lichfield Garrick favourite, Ian Adams, will don a top hat and take to the stage as the Mad Hatter and Laura Baldwin will play the curious, Alice.

All the razzle dazzle of the big top will be brought vividly to life with spectacular scenery, colourful costumes and a toe tapping score performed live on stage by the Lichfield Garrick’s Circus Band.

Alice in Wonderland will play at the Lichfield Garrick from Thursday 6 December 2012 until Sunday 6 January 2013, with a variety of schools, matinee and evening performances.

7th Dec. To enter this prize draw, all you have to do is answer the following question correctly:

Who is the Artistic Director of the Lichfield Garrick?

Send your answer on a postcard or the back of a sealed

Enjoying afternoon tea is Adrian Jackson, Artistic & Executive Director, Ian Adams as Mad Hatter, Laura Baldwin as Alice, Steve Huison as The White Rabbit with Christopher Moore, Head of Marketing.

Photograph by Robert Yardley Tickets cost from £12.50 for children and from £20 for adults. To book, please contact Lichfield Garrick Box on 01543 412121 or visit Office www.lichfieldgarrick.com. envelope to: Lichfield Gazette, Alice in Wonderland Prize Draw, PO Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Don’t forget to include your name, address and contact number. The deadline for entries is 17th Oct and the winners will be announced in the Nov issue of the magazine.

Page 11

GazetteNews

Judo club see rise in popularity

Sponsored by & Robert Yardley Photography

Lichfield azette

G

Bonny Baby Competition (Baby 0 -12 months and Toddler 13 – 36 months)

Is your baby or toddler extra cute?

WIN A UNIQUE PORTRAIT SITTING AND MORE….

The Lichfield Gazette is urging parents to join in the fun. Send in your photographs of your baby (Category 1, age 0 to 12 months) or toddler (Category 2 age 13 to 36 months) to: The Editor, Lichfield Gazette, P O Box 5414, Lichfield WS14 4EZ. Please mark your entry Category 1 or Category 2 and note that we cannot return photographs. Closing date 17th Oct 2012.

1st prize in each category is a photo session with Robert

Yardley and a framed 10” x 8” print PLUS “Graffalo Cutlery Set” courtesy of Arthur Price of England.

2nd Prize prize in each category is a photo session with Robert Yardley Photography and a mounted 8” x 6” print PLUS “My Graffalo Cutlery Set” courtesy of Arthur Price of England.

Page 12 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

F

riary Judo club was established in 1998 and over the years has grown into Lichfield’s premier venue for judo players, new and experienced, old and young to learn, practice and excel at the sport. The club has earned a reputation for being amongst the best Judo clubs in the Midlands, with bronze ‘clubmark’ accreditation and full BJA membership, all of which is all overseen by a dedicated team of expert instructors and coaches.

Club members regularly compete in competitions up and down the country at local, regional and national levels. Junior and senior members have gained an impressive haul of gold, silver and bronze medals so far this year, and have their targets firmly set on many more.

However it’s not all hard work, the club holds regular social events such as meals, nights out and infamous paintball days which all help to generate the friendly atmosphere and underline the ethos of Friary Judo club.

Due to a surge in members the club found it necessary to relocate at the start of the year, and whilst doing so applied for a grant from Sport England and the National Lottery, receiving £6,950 to overhaul the facility. Now

D

proudly boasting a brand new double competition sized mat area, crash mats and other training equipment the club is in the ideal position to drive standards to new levels and raise the bar in judo and general fitness.

Friary Judo is always open to new members whether they’re absolute beginners or experienced judoka. Anyone interested in having a go is encouraged to come along to one of the weekly sessions, where they will be made welcome and looked after by one of the coaches.

The Friary Judo Club training venue is the Scout Hut, The Leasowe, Lichfield, WS13 7HD. Training Times: Juniors - Tuesday 6pm - 7:15 pm. Saturday 10am - 12 noon. Seniors - Tuesday 7:15pm – 9:00 pm. Saturday 10am - 12 noon

Darwin Hall Open Day 20th October 2012

arwin Hall is a community centre for the local residents of Darwin Park, Sandfields and Leomansley neighbourhoods. It officially opened in June 2010 and has become a diverse hive of community activity.

To mark the opening of the hall, local children and adults, Michael Fabricant MP, the Community Police Officer and the Chairman of Darwin Walk, created a piece of artwork for the entrance. Kate Durrant who at the time worked for Café Ceramica ran a workshop for anyone to make a tile with a design of their choosing. These where then all put together to create a striking mosaic.

Twelve of the tiles were framed and taken by the then Mayor, Cllr. Chris Spruce as a

Twinning gift to the opening of a similar community hall in Sainte Foy-lès-Lyon in France, one of Lichfield’s twinned cities.

On Saturday the 20th October you can discover Darwin Hall for yourself by coming along to the Family Open Afternoon between 1 and 5 p.m. During this event visitors will be able to meet the groups who use the hall, meet the Management Team, enjoy a slice of cake and a cuppa (courtesy of Waitrose) and watch demonstrations from Pedralta Belly Dancing, Ladies Self-Defence and Silhouette Dance Academy amongst others. There’ll also be plenty of activities to keep children busy. For more information go to www.darwinhall.org.uk

Tiles sent to Sainte Foy le Lyon

Hearing is believing The old maxim, ‘seeing is believing’ has taken a different twist with one young Lichfield man. Because Michael Woodward has overcome early life difficulties to become a “shining star”.

Five years ago Michael Woodward went along to Lichfield Hearing Centre with profound hearing loss. Regular hearing aid prescriptions were going to be of little use to him due to the shape and form of his ears and the way conventional aids are worn. Although the equipment they prescribed to him was powerful, it did not give him the full range of sounds. Tony Vaughan at Hidden Hearing worked together with Michael, and came up with a solution, which has been a boon to him personally and socially.

Michael’s father Tony Woodward explained; “It must be nearly five years since Michael first came to Hidden Hearing’s Lichfield Hearing Centre for assessment regarding his hearing. He has progressed well during this time and Michael continues to show improvement in life values and skills that would never have seemed possible.”

So much so that Michael recently won Shining Star – Adult Learner of the Year Award at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham. He has also picked up awards such as the National Adult Learners Award 2011 and Birmingham Education’s ‘The Future Starts Here’.

Michael has new-found skills in computing, crafts, digital photography and cookery.

In his computer class he has been learning with hearing adults without difficulties. His progress has been remarkable, and all due to the confidence he has achieved by regaining most of his hearing due to the service and help he has received from Lichfield Hearing Centre New-found Confidence “The personal service and the care that Tony and his staff show to all people in need is exemplary,

Michael has begun to read better, his contact with people and his confidence is greatly improved. He now lives with seven lads, able to join in conversations, travels on the bus, and has come on leaps and bounds!” Tony and Carole Woodward proudly told the Lichfield Gazette.

Tony Vaughan explains, "The benefit he has derived from it has been tremendous I have provided him with the tools and the rest he has achieved by his own efforts, I am very proud of him. Without his hearing aid he hears nothing. Not only has it been pleasing to me to help Michael, it has been amazing to see his improvement from the first time I met him. I am pleased to say Michael is typical of the customers who have enjoyed the quality of service that makes Hidden Hearing one of the leaders in our field. We don't just fit them and send them away!"

Tony Woodward concluded; "What Tony Vaughan has done for our son, I really don't think we would have got from any other hearing centre."

Hidden Hearing is one of the UK’s leading providers of hearing aids and is constantly raising the bar on patient satisfaction.

Michael Woodward proudly displays his awards

HEAR MORE CLEARLY

Tony Vaughan with Michael Page 13

GazetteNews

Local Artist Exhibits at Malt Bar

H

annah Humphreys is a Burntwood based artist who is currently exhibiting her work at Malt, Wade Street, Lichfield (opp. Garrick).

Hannah studied at Lancaster University and the University of North Carolina in Charlotte, USA and has just completed her Fine Art Masters at Birmingham City University.

In her paintings she invites the viewer into abstract worlds filled with personal symbols and collected memories. She allows the work to emerge from the process of painting.

More information on Hannah’s work is available at www.HannahJean.co.uk

The Sheriff's Ride A 459 year old tradition Saturday 8th September

T

he Ride dates from Queen Mary's Charter of 1553 in which Lichfield was separated from Staffordshire and made a separate County with a right to appoint its own Sheriff. The Charter commanded the Sheriff to ‘perambulate the new County and City annually on the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary,’ coincidently 8th September.

Today, holding true to custom, the Sheriff and riders assemble at Guildhall, and followed by between 40-50 riders commence the 16 mile perambulation of the city boundary. The northern and eastern boundaries are covered in the morning, arriving in the grounds of Freeford Manor for lunch. The ride then resumes to complete the circuit of the boundary.

This year following a most humorous address outside the Guildhall by Mr Bob White, the Sheriff of Lichfield Cllr.

Brian Bacon (2012) and his good lady Cllr. Mrs Norma Bacon left The Guildhall in the back of an open top Cadillac.

On the ride this year Mrs Sarah Elsom, High Sheriff of Staffordshire, accompanied Dr Darrell Brown who led the ride. The toast at the lucheon was given Dr Neville Brown. Guests also included Local MP Michael Fabricant and Mayor of Lichfield Mrs Janet Eagland. The Lichfield Concert Band provided a variety of music, the sun shone and all had a very good day.

Page 14 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Now then, now then, goodness, gracious, guys and gals, as it ‘appens CC Wheate & Sons Jewellers in Market Street have displayed in their window one of the gold bracelets of the late, great Jimmy Savile OBE. It’s as understated as you would imagine and definitely worth a look. See page 25 for full story.

Spotted on Friday 21st September, removal vans outside the old Linford Group buildings in Quonians. Eye witnesses report the removal of some fascinating stuff including Jimmy Savile half carved statues and records that looked to be decades, if not centuries old. The building is being cleared in preparation for the arrival of the new owners, Richard Winterton Auctioneers.

Congratulations to all involved in the Heritage Weekend that took place on the 22nd and 23rd September. The Bystander took a trip around the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum just for the pleasure of looking at the paintings on display. The museum is always free to enter so if you have a spare half hour this is a great way to spend it.

For a preview have a look at some of the Museum’s images reproduced in the Samuel Johnson story on page 34.

Finally, on the 22nd the Bystander spent a happy half hour within the ancient walls of Dr Milley’s Hospital on Beacon Street. This wonderful building is only open to the public for one day so if you missed it this year, make a note in your diary for next.

Page 15

GazetteNews

Vintage Shopping Extravaganza To Transform The Streets of Lichfield

A

veritable feast of vintage delights will take the people of Lichfield on a tantalising trip into a bygone era as the picturesque city plays host to its first one-day vintage event next month.

Cocktail bars, vintage cars, dance demos and live music are just a few of the treats in store as the centre of our Cathedral city undergoes a nostalgic makeover for the one-day event on Saturday October 27th.

The colourful event will be concentrated around two main venues, The George Hotel and Erasmus Darwin House, with the adjoining Bird Street providing the link to veritable vintage heaven.

The George Hotel will be hosting a huge array of vintage clothing, live music and goodies with. The Happy Flapper serving cocktails in the bar. Meanwhile at Erasmus Darwin House you’ll find Speakeasy cocktails, the Vintage Hair Salon and a mooch fest of vintage clothing, memorabilia, tea and cake.

Bird Street will be closed to traffic and lined with vintage vehicles. There will also be a pin up photo

Page 16 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

booth and a vintage taxi tour service.

The event is being co-ordinated by Lucy Grove-Hemmings from the Blue Strawberry Design Studio near Aldridge and she has promised visitors a day to remember.

“We have live music, dance demos, cocktail bars and vintage products coming out of every corner, a photography booth and classic cars. It’s going to be amazing!

“Everyone can uniquely style themselves with some of the best in vintage ladies’ and gents clothing while having a mooch amongst the memorabilia and collectables. They can also have their hair rolled and rocked at the hair salon, sip cocktails, learn a few moves with our dancing demos, enjoy a little high tea and swing to the live music.”

Lucy decided to bring the event to Lichfield after having a great response to a Vintage and Country

Boutique in Three Spires. And she was quick to point out the importance of such events to people working in the creative world of business.

“This kind of event is so important for young creative businesses as it gives them an opportunity to be able to get their products out there and you can’t ask for a better City to enjoy a shopping day out than Lichfield.

“The two venues are amazing and are collaborating to bring this event to their street. They have been incredibly supportive and just embraced the whole idea right from the start.”

The George Hotel is offering reduced room rates over the weekend and there is a chance to win a fabulous overnight stay at the hotel.

The vintage shopping day runs between 10am and 6pm on Saturday October 27th.

Page 17

Page 18 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 19

Page 20 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 21

GazetteNews

Lichfield and Burntwood are blooming lovely!

L

ichfield City has been awarded a coveted Silver Gilt in the Heart of England in Bloom competition. The competition is run by the Royal Horticultural Society and is widely recognised as the standard bearer for floral contests.

Richard Lewis, President of the Chamber of Trade & Commerce explains: “The Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce, supported by Lichfield City and District Councils and businesses across the city, entered Lichfield in to the Heart of England in Bloom competition earlier this summer. This is the first year we have entered and we are absolutely delighted to have been awarded a treasured Silver Gilt award.”

The team welcomed the judges to the city on 24 July 2012 and escorted them on a guided tour. The judges visited city streets including Dam Street, The Cathedral Close and Three Spires Shopping Centre that were rich with reds, blues and whites, thanks to festive bunting and beautiful Jubilee themed hanging baskets. They also visited Minster Pool Walk, Museum Gardens, Beacon Park, and the Garden of Remembrance, all of which have benefitted from the recent renovation of the city parks and were a riot of

summer colours in borders and baskets.

The judges also strolled around Erasmus Darwin House herb garden, St John’s Hospital garden, Tempest Ford on St John’s Street, and Friday Acre in North Lichfield. The judging concluded at The Plant Plot Garden Centre The judges commended Lichfield for being a city steeped in history and heritage, with many hidden gems. They said it was a joy to meet business owners and market traders who were all upbeat and proud of their city. They described the floral displays as uplifting and were delighted by the festive bunting in all the city streets. They said the summer borders in Beacon Park were impressive and were also delighted by the enthusiasm of residents in Friday Acre and Dimbles Lane.

Richard Lewis concluded: “We are planning on forming a Lichfield in Bloom committee. If anyone is interested in joining the committee, please contact me on 01543 251006.”

Burntwood was also delighted to win a Silver Award in the Heart of England in Bloom (HEIB) competition, This is the first time that the town has entered the competition.

The judges comments included a note stating that ‘A very well organised garden and schools competition underpins this entry and has been the catalyst in joining the main campaign. There were some impressive residential gardens, communal gardens as well as Princes Park (the smallest park in Britain).’

Les Goodman, President of Heart of England in Bloom presents

Burntwood Town Council hosted its annual Burntwood in Bloom Presentation Evening on Friday 14th September at the Burntwood Memorial Institute.

The Burntwood in Bloom competition is a local competition organised by the Town Council . entered

by Burntwood residents, schools, businesses, etc each year. The competition was first run in 2008 making this the fifth year of Burntwood in Bloom. The Burntwood in Bloom competition was the catalyst to the council entering the town into the HEIB competition for the 1st time.

certificate to Richard Lewis

City People - A snap shot of individuals working within our community

B

rian Carruthers and his family have lived in Lichfield for some years now. Brian owns and runs the Tempest Ford car dealership in St John Street, and is an active member of the business community in Lichfield, supporting many aspects of the city’s community including the Rugby Club, of whom Tempest Ford are sponsors.

Brian came to the motor industry from a top level career in pharmaceutical sales, and has created a thriving business in Tempest Ford that employs 24 people.

Should you have been attending the NEC Antiques for everyone show however in July, you might have been surprised to find Brian and his wife Sue surrounded by some of the stock from their additional successful business, antique sales.

Brian specialises in beautiful ceramic and glass commemorative ware of both the Royal Family and the great conflicts of the Victorian era and early twentieth Page 22 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

century.

Brian’s decision to join the Lichfield Chamber of Commerce was triggered by the closure of TJ Hughes. The chamber and the District Council came together with members of the business community and sole proprietors to form a Liaison Group. This group was instrumental in the successful award of £100,000 government funding for the regeneration of Lichfield and Burntwood centres. This funding was announced earlier this year.

Brian is also involved in Lichfield Rugby Business Connections, a group that meets once a month at the Lichfield Rugby Clubhouse. The group is dedicated to strengthening the business community of the city, and thereby improving the prospects of individuals within it. It’s another way of creating an environment where business can be encouraged, something that Brian has been doing for all of his career.

Protect your loved ones by making a will

W

ill Aid’s Make a Will Month in November is fast approaching. This is a great opportunity for you to protect your loved ones by writing a proper, valid Will and at the same time help people in need in the UK and around the world.

Friendly and approachable solicitors in this area are taking part in this year’s campaign. Southwell Mott Solicitors in Lombard Street were able to collect an amazing £4,155 last year. Instead of charging their usual fees for a basic Will during the month of November, they will invite will-makers to make a donation to the Will Aid charities. The suggested minimum donation is £90 for a single Will, £135 for a pair of mirror Wills and £40 for a codicil. The solicitors are now booking appointments and advise readers to book early as demand is bound to be high.

The money raised is shared between the participating charities (ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, Sightsavers, SCIAF and Trocaire) and provides vital funds to help people in the UK and around the world to build their communities and improve their futures.

Last year’s national campaign enabled around 27,000 people to make a proper Will to protect their loved ones and raised £2.2 million for the Will Aid charities, beating the previous best of £1.5 million achieved in the 2011 campaign.

For peace of mind it is very important to seek professional help to write a Will. Only then can people feel confident that their Will is valid and their wishes will be carried out. Many people don’t make a Will because they assume that their partner will automatically inherit everything. This is not true.

For example, people who are not legally married or in a civil partnership are not automatically entitled to anything from the estate of their partner. There are even financial limits on what a surviving legally married person can receive. This may be less than the value of the family home – possibly forcing its sale to pay off other relatives. As a result, many surviving loved ones may have to endure a drawn out legal process and a good deal of emotional stress.

It is also very important to keep the Will up-to-date. This is particularly important when family circumstances change.

There may be births, deaths, divorces, marriages and of course people named as guardians for children or executors of the Will may become unsuitable through age or ill health.

With preparation and the help of a Will Aid solicitor, making a Will need not be difficult or time-consuming. In fact, it can often be done in a lunch hour. The Will Aid website www.willaid.org.uk has lots of information to help, including a useful Will Planner.

Southwell Mott Welcome Paula Bladon

Specialist Conveyancing Jonathan and Elizabeth Mott welcome Paula Bladon to their established team in the heart of Lichfield.

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: pbladon@southwellmott.co.uk jmott@southwellmott.co.uk

It’s so easy to take part in Will Aid. Simply find a convenient solicitor at www.willaid.org.uk or phone 01543 252102

Page 23

GazetteNews

Heritage Weekend and Johnson Birthday celebrations M

ore than one-thousand people swarmed to Lichfield for ‘a right royal occasion’ as part of Lichfield Heritage Weekend on 22 and 23 September The Weekend started in the time-honored fashion when at mid-day dignitaries from the City and District Council paid their respects to the memory of Dr Samuel Johnson on his 303rd birthday with hymns, prayers and the laying of a wreath by Mayor Cllr Janet Eagland. The ceremony was accompanied by Lichfield Singers and King Edward VI Jazz Band.

Lichfield District Council’s tourism team, Visit Lichfield, that helps to organise Lichfield Heritage Weekend, estimate that more than 1,000 people came to Lichfield City to enjoy all the festivities over the two days.

This year’s Heritage Weekend celebrated the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with royal-themed activities taking place across the city.

Heritage venues opened their doors to visitors for free, including the 17th century Dr Milley’s Hospital on Beacon Street, Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield Heritage Centre, and Lichfield Record Office in the Library.

Lichfield Cathedral, the City Cells in the Guildhall, The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and St John’s Hospital were also open to visitors and ran special royal events over the two days.

Eighty people enjoyed a range of guided tours for just £1, including Erasmus Darwin House’s cellar, Lichfield Cathedral and a city tour.

A packed programme of free activities and entertainment took place on Lichfield’s Market Square on Saturday 22 September, including the Samuel Johnson birthday celebrations, face painting, sword and princess wand making, a ‘Royal Quest’ market trail, a young town crier competition and entertainment by Go Ukulele Crazy and Intimate Theatre.

Ten children donned their costumes and entered the princess and knight competition on Saturday. The winner was Ruby Wallis dressed as a princess, who won a family ticket to see Alice in Wonderland at the Lichfield Garrick this Christmas. Hannah Keane took second place also dressed as a princess, and won a day trip to Conkers in Leicestershire.

The Young Town Crier competition also took place on Saturday, with eight children belting out their best cries to see who would win the top title. Eight-year-old Emily Bennett was picked as the winner. She won a special mini town crier’s bell and certificate.

Councillor Louise Flowith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Tourism, said: “The sun shone on Saturday and the Market Square was full of people who came to enjoy the entertainment and to take part in all the free activities.

“The costumes looked brilliant so well done to everyone who made such an effort and entered the competition, and to all the young town criers who were in fine voice on the day.

“Visitor attractions from across the city have told us they were really busy over the whole weekend, so we’re delighted this year’s Heritage Weekend was such a success.”

All photographs by Robert Yardley (except where indicated)

Courtesy of LDC

Page 24 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Photograph by Robert Yardley

Jimmy Savile’s Bracelet – rattle, rattle!

F

lamboyant cigar-smoking Sir Jimmy Savile's reign as the nations most colourful showbiz personality lasted for more than 50 years. He met the Queen, Pope John Paul II, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair and forged close friendships with Prince Charles and Princess Diana. Amazingly, the Top of the Pops and Jim'll Fix It star kept every souvenir of his extraordinary life.

Tireless Sir Jimmy had raised an estimated £42 million plus for charity when he died two days short of his 85th birthday last October and his final wish was that his personal possessions should be sold in one last major fundraising raising effort.

Everything from a Rolls-Royce Cornice to his trademark rose-tinted glasses was sold, cigars and all.

Included in the sale was a famous ID bracelet worn by Sir Jimmy and bought at auction two months ago by the owners of Lichfield Jewellers CC Wheate. It weighs almost 8 ounces. Pavé set with 55 round brilliant cut diamonds total approximately 3.85 carat.

Jimmy Savile’s bracelet is currently on display in the

window of CC Wheate Jewellers, 8 Market Street Lichfield. Mr Wheate says it is unlikely to be sold unless an immense bid should come in.

‘How’s that then? OoOoOh!’

Sir Jimmy. Bracelet originally part of "Top of the Pops' outfit.

Page 25

GazetteNews

BLACKBROOK WEEKEND RAISES £2,740 FOR ST GILES HOSPICE

B

lessed with fabulous weather and a team of volunteers, from sandwich makers to expert antique valuers and talented musicians, Blackbrook’s charity open weekend was a roaring success as over 1,500 people (and over half for the very first time) visited this wonderful emporium of antiques, furnishings and furniture, craft workshops and tea rooms to help raise £2,740 for St Giles Hospice.

Now under new ownership, Blackbrook’s historic grounds located on the London Road (A38 Southbound), Weeford, just passed Swinfen Hall Hotel and the Tamworth turn off, were the perfect place for a mooch as there was literally something of interest for everyone. To add to the tranquil setting this weekend local musicians, Saxamejig, Fiddle Folk and pianist Steve Brown played for the crowds as they browsed or sat by the beautiful brook devouring the sensational hog roast (thanks to Steve Stack at Gourmet Chef To Go) and cream teas created by the talented and selfless volunteers of St Giles Hospice. Not forgetting those that lingered for a Pimms or two and a bowl of strawberries and cream!

Michael and Sue Rowan are determined to put Blackbrook on the map as the antithesis to the ‘throwaway’ culture that has started to become a way of life for most. One of the most pleasant surprises of the weekend for them was the amount of interest in the craft demonstrations where furniture transformations by Jane Hope and Drew Rutland, stained glass expert Tim Derbyshire (with son, Harry), engraving by Rob Davis, woodwork expert Andy Tiso, clock displays with Tom Dawes and spinner/weaver Karen Smith (also founder of folk band Fiddle Folk) harmoniously sat alongside each other in the stunning barns whilst onlookers across the generations asked questions and got involved wherever they could.

The climax of Saturday’s Saxamejig event was the raffle draw. After a short, engaging speech from Dr Robert Horton, Trustee and acting Medical Director for St Giles Hospice, tickets were drawn by Mary Adams, fellow trustee of St Giles, and special guests Roderick Gibson and his wife Leah. First prize (a Blackbrook voucher for £500) was won by a delighted Mr Andy Harris from Birmingham and the Ruth Marshall Interior Design concept for one room was won by a Mrs Hallam from Great Barr. Runner up prizes including Dinner at Marco Pierre White’s The Cube, Three course lunch at Swinfen Hall, cheese board for two at Netherstowe House, and a Burton Albion ground tour for a child and adult were won by visitors from Sutton Coldfield, Burton Upon Trent and Lichfield. Mr Noel Poxon donated his prize to St Giles Hospice to give to one of their families.

On Sunday guests brought along their most prized possession or family heirloom for a complementary valuation with experts Roderick Gibson and Sarah Duly. Silver and porcelain pieces from all over the world along with diamond rings and pocket watches which had been in the family for centuries, were carefully studied and valued with some good news stories. For more information please go to www.blackbrook-interiors.co.uk or call 01543 481010.

Steve Brown draws a crowd around the piano

Ruth Marshall and Ellie Blagrove

Drew Rutland, furniture transformation specialist

Mary Adams with winner of top prize blackbrook voucher, Rod Gibson and Dr Horton

Marie Ashley, Linda Bridge Corporate and Event fundraiser Margaret Nichols

Leah Gibson and Sue Rowan

Young People Offered the Experience of a Lifetime Y

oung people in Stafford, Lichfield, Cannock and the surrounding areas are being offered an ‘Experience of a Lifetime’ if they sign up to National Citizen Service.

After the success of ‘Summer of a Lifetime’ earlier this year, Staffordshire County Council is now looking for volunteers aged 16 or in Year 12 at school to take part in fun and challenging activities that will let them meet new people and make a difference to their local community.

Experience of a Lifetime is part of the National Citizen Service Programme and is being delivered by Staffordshire County Council.

Experience of a Lifetime will involve a week's ‘residential’ between October 28 and November 2. This year participants will be taken on a residential to the Scottish borders, before working six hours every 6 weeks on a community project.

For more information on National Citizen Service and the Experience of a Lifetime, visit www.youthbox.info or emailsyps.ncs.project@staffordshire.gov.uk.

Page 26 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Photo courtesy of www.youthbox.info

Page 27

GazetteFeature

HEARTENING OAK

Quality furniture from a solid source I

don’t mind saying I am not a great connoisseur of furniture and my taste might not suit everyone, but I do know quality and I like a bargain. So my senses were heightened when I stepped into Oak Furniture Wholesalers new Lichfield warehouse.

The solid oak furniture here is sublime. There is an unmistakable feeling that this furniture would usually be found in the nation’s more upmarket stores, and you would be right. The pieces offered at Oak Wholesalers are selected overstocks; cancelled orders, redundant high street displays and unrepeatable ‘one-off’ factory samples and lots more.

The company’s ethos is simple, why wait for high quality handmade oak furniture and furthermore why pay more? Substational savings are on offer at these wholesale prices.

The superb quality offered here, is derived from the initial experienced selection of fine European oak, artisan skills, and attention to every detail throughout design and manufacture.

The sheer pride of ownership of solid oak furniture cannot be denied, the unique beauty of the grain, formed over a century or more

(often much more) all part of the history of oak, which of course includes our Lichfield cathedral roof and Nelson's H.M.S. Victory.

The owners of Oak Furniture Wholesalers have many years experience in the furniture industry, establishing trustworthy contacts which enables the offering of stylish, well constructed and yet truly affordable dining, bedroom and occasional oak furniture.

Increasing prices! frustrating, extended deliveries! At last I've found a refreshing change.

THE COMPANY'S TWIN ETHOS: WHY WAIT ?

WHY PAY MORE ?

Everything is immediately available !! and wholesale prices can save hundreds of pounds All items are available from stock – no waiting 8-12 weeks here. There are dining sets that seat 4 to 12, sideboards and display cabinets to match. There's occasional furniture including t.v. bases, coffee tables and nests as well as many statement mirrors.

The oak wardrobes and beds are the same solid oak quality too.

Page 28 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

See Oak Furniture Wholesalers for yourself you won’t be disappointed.

OPEN 7 DAYS 01543 419444

www.oak-furniture-wholesalers.co.uk

Page 29

GazetteNews

1970’s Nostalgia at Wade Street Church

W

ade Street Church in Lichfield recently celebrated its bi-centenary by holding a 1970s style service. Throughout 2012 the church has been holding events to mark the two hundredth anniversary of its opening. A successful re-creation of a 19th century service in March was followed up six months later with a service which included songs, music and poetry from the 1970s – a mixture of congregational songs from the influential Youth Praise hymn book, solo items from Paul Hayter and Andrew Rushton, and an opportunity to share memories of that decade.

Members of the congregation and a number of visitors attended the service wearing 1970s style fashions and after the service people had an opportunity to listen to some vinyl LPs of Christian music from that era.

Epic Ride in Aid of Macmillan Raises over £72,000 A

team of intrepid cyclists, many of whom work at local firm Tippers have completed an epic bike ride from Lands End to John O’Groats , covering a total of 1100 miles.

A core team of twelve cyclists completed the entire route. They were joined over the ten day duration of the journey by additional cyclists each day, taking the team up to around 17.

The ride was undertaken in aid of Macmillian Cancer Support and has raised an impressive £72,246

so far.

Although the scenery was beautiful, the team often had to battle through heavy rain and there were some injuries along the way with one team member sustaining a suspected broken arm after an accident 20 miles outside John O’Groats.

More information and pictures of the team are available at www.facebook.com/#!/TheUKsLongestBikeRide201 2 where there is also a link to a Just Giving Page.

Caroline Boucher, Sue Hudson & Maureen Osborne show off their original 1970s fashion.

Congratulations to Lynne Russon and Ben Macnair, winners of a pair of tickets to see Comedy and Cake at the Guildhall. We hope that you enjoyed the show.

Ian Hayter & Andrew Rushton singing

National Memorial Arboretum calls for new volunteers The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is in the process of recruiting new members for its award winning group of volunteers. The Arboretum’s current 150 strong volunteer group is held in high regard, demonstrated by the fact that in 2010 it was awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service the MBE for volunteer groups. Volunteer opportunities that are now available at the Arboretum are Front of House Volunteer and Learning Volunteer.

For further information and to request an application form contact Kim Riley at kriley@thenma.org.uk or call 01283 792333.

Page 30 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Local Celebrity Chef Demonstrates Christmas Cookery at Cathedral in Support of Choir Exchange If you are entertaining at home this Christmas, then a choir exchange fundraising event at Lichfield Cathedral may be just the ticket to help you to prepare for the imminent arrival of friends and family. Local celebrity chef Simon Smith will be giving a Christmas cookery demonstration for all on Friday October 5th at 7.30pm, in support of a Choir Exchange with the cathedral’s link diocese of Matlosane, South Africa.

The Cathedral Choir Exchange will involve a visit to a partner-cathedral in a South African township in 2013. The money raised from the cookery demonstration will go towards funding a musical and cultural exchange to take place between the children, young people and adults of the two cathedral choirs, as well as supporting the work of the Church in Matlosane, a vast area in the

north of the republic, formerly part of the diocese of Johannesburg.

The cookery demonstration will focus upon impressive but easy entertaining for family and guests over Christmas. Simon will provide presentation/technique tips and as a nod to the fundraising taking place for Matlosane, the evening will also feature a South African twist. Tickets are £15 and all profits will go towards the Cathedral Choir Exchange with South Africa. Tickets are available from the Cathedral bookshop on 01543 306150 or visit the shop at No. 9 The Close.

If you would like to support the Cathedral Choir Exchange Tour to Matlosane, please follow the progress of preparations at www.lichfieldcathedral.org

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

LESSONS IN LICHFIELD Take the strain out of everyday life.

Christine Rapley MSTAT (Professional member of Back Care) Tel: 01543 262346 www.learn-at-lichfield.co.uk VOUCHER

(International Alexander Awareness Week)

40 Minute Introductory

Alexander Technique Lesson in Lichfield at reduced rate ÂŁ25.

Offer extend to end of October 2012. Call to arrange a lesson: Christine Rapley MSTAT 01543 262346 www.learn-at-lichfield.co.uk

Page 31

GazetteHeritage

Hidden Treasure LICHFIELD'S LISTED SUMMERHOUSE In 1810 the Earl of Lichfield decided that he required a town house and he built Ardmore House on some 7 acres of land, which he owned on the Northern side of Lichfield. This property is still in existence and fronts onto Beacon Street.

The Earl wanted a summerhouse in his garden and it is said they employed French POWs to build one to his specification. It is a brick two-storey building about 12' by 12' and 30' high with a tiled roof. Both rooms have a fireplace. The ground around the building was landscaped so that both floors were very easy to enter with only a few steps to the upper floor.

Internally the building has very different ground and first floor sizes. The ground floor, approached from the rear is a plain, roughly square room with indications that it was later modified to use as a pigsty, probably during the 2nd World War, as it still includes a food chute and trough. The first floor internal room is octagonal in shape and somewhat smaller than the ground floor room. This effect was arrived at by internal false walls and certainly gives it an ambience, which the ground floor lacks. It also has three windows one of which is glazed with the original glass and leading.

It was used by the Earl to entertain visitors and it is understood that the Bishop of Lichfield was one of them. The lower floor was used by the butler who was responsible for lighting the fires and refreshing them as necessary and also to boil a kettle to provide the Earl and his visitor(s) with tea plus other refreshments from the house.

In 1903 the Earl decided to sell Ardmore House and land including the summerhouse. Inevitably houses were built on the land during the 20th Century and a road to these given the name Nether Beacon. Fortunately the Summer House survived and about 15 years ago the District Council declared it a grade 2 listed building. This indicates that it is of local historical interest. It is the only one in Staffordshire and probably in England.

Its present condition reveals that very little work has been done on it since being built and the present owner is committed to restoring it in the near future.

Research by David Wood of Lichfield Heritage Centre.

Summerhouse

Upstairs with fireplace

Original pillars for gate

Downstairs (now toolshed)

Roof and chimney

Ardmore House Original 15ft wall surrounded all 7 acres

Downstairs

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

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

Page 32 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Wind Energy Public Debate Announced 13th October 2012 L

ow Carbon Lichfield (LoCaL) in conjunction with the Whittington and Fisherwick Environment Group (WFEG) is organising a public debate to take place on Saturday 13th October 2012 at Wade Street Church, Wade Street, Lichfield.

This event will provide a balanced and informative forum to enable members of the public to hear the facts about this key subject from a panel of experts and to ask questions. Chaired by Michael Fabricant MP, speakers will include Ed Gill from Good Energy (a key generator of electricity using wind power); Phil Goode from the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England and Professor Peter Styles from the University of Keele.

Doors will open at 10.30 and the debate will start at 11.00.

All members of the public whatever their views will be welcome to attend.

A simple opinion poll will be held before and after the Courtesy of www.globe-net.com event.

Page 33

GazetteFeature

‘The two most engaging powers of an author are to make new things familiar and familiar things new.’

Samuel Johnson O

By Joss Musgrove Knibb

n the 22nd September this year the city of Lichfield celebrated Samuel Johnson’s 303rd birthday with lots of activities including placing a wreath on his statue in Market Square. This statue is so much part of the landscape that I suspect that most of us pass it without giving it much thought, despite the fact that this man has been inspiring debate, love, dislike and fascination throughout the three centuries since his birth. It’s an amazing thought that a man born in the first years of the eighteenth century could still be relevant to lives lived during the industrial revolution, two world wars and our own technological age.

Until very recently, my own knowledge of Johnson was based on a few half heard quotes and of course the famous ‘dictionary’. For those readers whose knowledge of the doctor is as patchy as mine, let me share with you here a little précis of Sam’s life, illustrated with some of the poignant and fascinating portraits on display at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

Let me begin then by admitting a prejudice. I began to write this piece with little affection for Johnson. Some of his quotes seemed to me to exhibit a rare mix of pomposity and spite. However there’s a humanity and complexity to this man’s character that speaks of an individual capable of great kindness and loyalty, and that the prejudices that some bonne motte illustrate (‘Sir, a woman preaching is like a dog's walking on his hind legs. It is not done well; but you are surprised to find it done at all’) are refuted by his everyday dealings. There’s also something rather life affirming in such exuberant and unapologetic rudeness!

Sam was born in 1709 in Lichfield to Michael Johnson, a bookseller and his wife Sarah. He was a sickly infant, making no noise as he came into the world. Sam survived his infancy, but contracted a particularly nasty disease called ‘scrofula’ – know at the time as the ‘King’s Evil’.

Scrofula is a form of tuberculosis that forms lesions, open sores and growths on the skin. It also leaves the sufferer weak and debilitated. Although curable with antibiotics in our age, in the eighteenth century the most common treatment was to be touched by a Royal personage, in Sam’s case Queen Anne. The treatment failed and the surgical procedures the lad suffered (in a time before anaesthetics) to remove the diseased skin left him with scars all over his body. Sam lived on, weak and fragile in body but startlingly keen in mind. He was educated at Lichfield Grammar School where his friends would carry him in and out of lessons every day.

During his time at school Sam began to develop the tics and compulsive movements that have led to a posthumous diagnosis of ‘Tourette Syndrome’ that is accepted by some. His obsessive compulsive mannerisms are vividly described by James Boswell. ‘He commonly held his head to one side ... moving his body backwards and forwards, and rubbing his left knee in the same direction, with the palm of his hand ... He made various sounds like a half whistle or as if clucking like a hen, and all this accompanied sometimes with a thoughtful look, but more frequently with a smile. Generally when he had concluded a period, in the course of a dispute, by which time he was a good deal exhausted by violence and

Page 34

vociferation, he used to blow out his breath like a Whale.’

He would often perform the same set of compulsive movements coming in and out of doorways, and when asked why by a curious little girl he told her it was a ‘bad habit’.

When Willian Hogarth, the artist who created the celebrated ‘Rakes Progress’ series amongst others first saw Johnson, he was standing alone, rolling his head and pulling strange faces. William thought that he was a disabled relative that the family had taken in. When Samuel then stalked towards him and fired off a discourse of wit and precision he was truly astonished, and thought that perhaps he had seen a true case of ‘divine inspiration’.

Samuel also suffered from debilitating periods of depression that he seriously considered to be the onset of insanity. He called these depressive periods the ‘black dog’, a term made popular by Winston Churchill who also suffered from depression. Sam was also tall, rotund, could be rather ‘slobbery’ when he spoke and often suffered from gout. In short, this was not a man blessed with beauty, physical perfection and good mental health. He was startling, challenging, and it seems capable of understanding others who were also prey to the disapprobation or derision of society.

Sam’s early life was characterised by the family’s regular periods of poverty. A bright child, Sam was not able to go to University as there was no money available to fund his degree. He therefore helped his father in the family business, re-binding books and in all probability reading everything he came into contact with. As a teenager he was none too gracious in his attitude to his father’s work. Years later he would make a public pilgrimage every year to Uttoxeter Market (where his father had once begged him to take a stall to sell books) in penitence at his rather understandable churlishness (who after all wasn’t a bit of a pain in the neck at that age).

When Sam was 19, the death of a relative allowed him to finally attend Pembroke College, Oxford. Like many gifted people, he found being curtailed in what he read and

Sammual Johnson

David Garrick as Richard III

studied rather difficult. He would undertake astonishing acts of academic brilliance (the perfect Latin translation of Alexander Pope’s poem Messiah in 24 hours) but often missed lectures. He left in his second year without his degree, leaving many of his books behind him in the hope that he might soon return. He never did but received an honorary degree just before the publication of the Dictionary.

For a few years, Sam taught in various schools, or looked for teaching work. He even applied for the position of Headmaster of Solihull School, but it was thought that his various ticks and gestures would frighten the boys.

Sam then spent a couple of years as a columnist on the Birmingham Journal.

In 1732, Sam’s close friend Richard Porter died. Sam stayed with him through the end of his life, and was greatly saddened at his death. However, a few months after his death he started to court Porter’s well - to - do widow Elizabeth, known as ‘Tetty’. They married on the 9th July 1735. Johnson was 25, she was 46. The family was scandalised with all but Tetty’s daughter, Lucy decrying the match.

It was with Tetty’s money that Johnson decided to open his own school in Edial, just outside Lichfield. With only three pupils the school was not a success, but it did bring Johnson into contact with one of his greatetest friends, David Garrick, who attended the school as a pupil at the age of 18.

In 1737, Johnson and Garrick famously walked to London, staying with a distant relative of Garrick’s. David eventually became the most famous actor of his generation, a man still well known today, and it was this long, dusty walk that eventually led to Johnson’s own immortality.

In London, Johnson began to work as a columnist and journalist again, producing such a proliferation of texts that he himself couldn’t list them. He also published his historical work ‘Irene’ and had a satirical poem ‘London’ published anonymously to critical praise.

It seems likely that his ability to address any subject, and his encyclopaedic knowledge of literature were the catalyst to him being approached by a group of publishers in 1746, in order to compile a dictionary. It was this great work that took him nine years to complete that created his lasting fame. Johnson’s dictionary was not the first, but it was the first to list the uses of each work with phrases from literature to illustrate them. He used his own great collection of books as reference, often borrowing further from friends who would eventually receive the volumes back in a very poor state!

The dictionary stands as one of the greatest ever works of scholarship in the English language, despite his own

GazetteFeature

Tetty Johnson

health and the failing health (and eventual death) if his wife. It was published in 1755 and included the meanings of over 114,000 words. The book when closed was over 46 cm’s thick and cost the equivalent today of £350. It was considered by many to be the most complete dictionary available until the first publication of the Oxford English Dictionary in 1928. Not bad eh! It did not however make Johnson a rich man.

In 1752, whilst still working on the dictionary Tetty had died and Johnson was truly grief stricken, He believed that his lack of financial success had forced her to live in poverty and probably exacerbated her illness. Tetty has also become addicted to the medicines of the period that contained strong alcohol, and this added to his feelings of wretched guilt that continued to be expressed in his diaries until his death. It was also in 1752 that Francis Barber, a ten year old boy and freed slave, came to live with Sam as a ‘manservant’. Francis was the effective ‘protégé’ of a family friend Colonel Richard Bathurst who was aware of Johnson’s outspoken criticism of the slave trade. It was thought that Francis would provide an outlet for Johnson’s natural ability to teach and compassion. On entering the house Francis was struck by Johnson’s very fresh grief at the death of his wife, and Johnson in turn stated that he had no need of a manservant (especially one who had been through so much and who would be understandably sensitive about taking orders) so Francis was sent to lodge in Blackfriars where his health declined and he caught smallpox. During his illness he returned to live with Johnson, and on recovery was sent by Sam to attend Grammar School in Birmingham.

In 1756 Johnson was arrested for debt, and wrote to the writer and publisher Samuel Richardson to ask for help.

The two became friends and it was through this friendship that Johnson met and became great friends with Sir Joshua Reynolds, A sad little tale is told by Joshua’s sister Francis, who remembers men, women and children crowding around Sam, laughing at his ticks and gestures.

It’s at this time that Johnson again shows characteristic generosity and kindness. Anna Williams was a poor, unknown poet who was losing her sight to cataracts. Anna boarded with Johnson and he paid for her to have surgery

to restore her sight.

Unfortunately the surgery didn’t work and she eventually became his housekeeper, a role that she loved.

When Francis Barber returned from school, he was unhappy with sharing his home with Anna. It seems that she viewed Frank with the prejudiced eyes of her age, and saw his confidence and independence as arrogance.

Frank walked out, initially to spend two years as an apothecary’s assistant, and then, after a brief stint back at home where he had nothing to do but smart under Anna’s disapproval, he enlisted in the Royal Navy. Sam used his influence to have Francis returned but it was two years till he came home. I must admit, this act of Samuel’s makes me feel rather uncomfortable. It seems that Francis was still not master of his fate. We know that Sam could see no reason why anyone would want to be at sea, and had great fatherly affection for Francis, fearing the immoral life that sailors led.

Frank however enjoyed the life and was discharged from the navy ‘without any wish of my own.’

Within the Johnson household Francis had a few light duties such as answering the door, but Sam wouldn’t send him out to buy oysters for the cat, or act in any way a servant, in case he found it humiliating. Anna had now left Johnson’s home. Frank must have been very relieved, and spent the next few years completing his education.

In 1759 Johnson published his book Rasselas, one of his best known works today. It took Johnson just one week to write, and the proceeds of the book helped to pay for his mother’s funeral and pay off any of her outstanding debts.

It was only in 1767 at the presentation of a pension of £300 a year by King George III that Sam’s fortunes stabilised a little. He was spending in this period an increasing amount of time in the home and company of his friends the Thrales, and especially in the company of his dear friend Hester Thrale. Francis was sent off to complete his education and in 1767, aged 34, he married a local woman named Elizabeth. They had three children and Frank continued to live near Johnson and see him every day.

To précis Sam’s later life seems a crime, but a necessary one. Sam had become a literary celebrity in his time, much loved by the people of the eighteenth century who were such a strange mix of the earthy and esoteric. In his later life he met and travelled with great friend and eventual biographer James Boswell, who gave us so many of the vivid descriptions of the man and made it de rigueur to refer to Sam as Dr Johnson, even though Sam himself hated the epithet.

In 1778, Sam’s health, never good, resulted in a stroke that for a while robbed him of speech. His diary entries for this period are understandably melancholy: ‘The black dog I hope always to resist, and in time to drive, though I am deprived of almost all those that used to help me. The neighbourhood is impoverished. I had once Richardson and Lawrence in my reach. Mrs. Allen is dead.

My house has lost Levet, a man who took interest in everything, and therefore ready at conversation. Mrs. Williams is so weak that she can be a companion no

longer. When I rise my breakfast is solitary, the black dog waits to share it, from breakfast to dinner he continues barking, except that Dr. Brocklesby for a little keeps him at a distance. Dinner with a sick woman you may venture to suppose not much better than solitary. After dinner, what remains but to count the clock, and hope for that sleep which I can scarce expect. Night comes at last, and some hours of restlessness and confusion bring me again to a day of solitude. What shall exclude the black dog from an habitation like this?’

Johnson died in 1784, with Francis at the bedside, and was buried in Westminster Abbey, next to his dear friend David Garrick, where he remains to this day. Johnson left his entire fortune to Francis Barber, with advice to return to Lichfield where he would be ‘looked after’. Francis and Elizabeth did return, moving to a house in Stowe Street.

Now well educated, Frank started two schools in Lichfield and Burntwood but they were not a success, forcing him to sell some of Johnson’s personal effects (many of which finally made their way to the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum). He died in 1801 in Stafford and was buried in St Mary's. His wife Elizabeth died in 1816 and is buried in St. Chad's Church, Lichfield. Their descendants still live in the Midlands two hundred years later.

Samuel Johnson was a man who inspired derision in the unenlightened, but admiration in the many friends he made and kept over his lifetime. It can be no co-incidence that many of these friends have also come down to us as remarkable, and masters of their field.

He was a complex man who it is impossible to pigeonhole, vastly intelligent and prolific in many ways, but often prone to crippling bouts of depression and self loathing. A great friend, patron and supporter of women, but often caustically depreciatory of women stepping out of their traditional role. A great moralist, but not individually judgmental. In short, a conundrum that has been fascinating us for centuries, and engaging writers of far more depth of knowledge than myself.

So, next time you are passing the statue in Market Square, spare a thought for our Sam, because he is our Sam, warts and all.

As he said himself: “The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.” A fine philosophy from a fine mind.

References.

Many of the paintings used in this text are hanging in the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Thank you to the museum for their help with this piece.

The Life of Francis Barber – The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.

Samuel Johnson – 1977 - Bate, Walter Jackson The Life of Samuel Johnson – 1791 – James Boswell

Francis Barber - (Tate Gallery)

Page 35

Win Tickets to The Telegraph CRUISE Show!

NEC, Birmingham: 20-21 October 2012

COMPETITION

T

he Cruise Show is the UK’s biggest event for discovering a world of voyages - perfect for those new to cruising and needing help to plan their first voyage, or seasoned cruisers looking for inspiration for their next holiday at sea.

This is the only place where you will find all the major and specialist cruise lines under one roof, hear directly from the cruise experts about what’s new for 2013 and save thousands of pounds with the exclusive show only offers! So whether you enjoy sailing in six-star comfort, visiting remote destinations, have a spirit for adventure or prefer relaxing in the most modern resort style ships perfect for the whole family, then The Telegraph CRUISE Show is the place to be.

We’ve teamed up with The Telegraph CRUISE Show to offer five pairs of tickets to Gazette readers. In order to be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets, just answer the question below: Q. Where is The Telegraph CRUISE Show taking place?

A. NEC B. Symphony Hall C. The Guildhall.

Just send your name, answer and contact details to gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk by the competition closing date Wednesday 15th October. One entry per household please, duplicate entries will be disqualified. Winners will be informed by Friday 16th October 2012.

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

Page 36 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 37

Staffordshire Author Launches Sexy New Romance S

taffordshire author Phillipa Ashley, is thanking the Fifty Shades of Grey craze for thrusting romantic fiction into the spotlight.

Phillipa’s new book, Miranda’s Mount, is a sexy, funny contemporary romance set in Cornwall and is published by Piatkus Entice as an e book on October 4th. It is the sixth novel for Phillipa, whose first book won a national award and was made into a US TV movie.

In the novel, sparks fly when Miranda Marshall, the manager of a spectacular island castle in Cornwall comes up against owner, Jago St Merryn, who is intent on selling his heritage to a soulless leisure corporation.

Phillipa, who lives in Hammerwich near Lichfield, got the idea for it after a visit to St Michael’s Mount: “I created my own fictional island because I was fascinated by what it would be like to live and work in a place that’s cut off

Page 38 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

from the rest of the world by the tides twice a day. On the surface, that kind of life sounds idyllic and romantic but I wondered what type of characters might want to escape either to or from the island. I wanted Miranda’s Mount to be fun and entertaining but also examine issues such as heritage, family and duty in a modern day world.”

Phillipa did a lot of research for the novel, including learning to surf for a key scene in the book.

While Miranda’s Mount is a light-hearted, sexy read compared to the dark erotic tone of Fifty Shades, Phillipa is convinced that the EL James blockbuster has increased readers’ thirst for all kinds of romantic novels.

“I noticed a rise in sales for my sexier books over the summer which I’ve put down to a renewed demand for romantic fiction combined with the rise in popularity of e books. It’s great to see readers of all ages buying and downloading the books they really want to read.

“Piatkus Entice is an exciting new imprint which publishes romantic novels as e books first. On Amazon, Kindle ebooks are now outstripping sales of printed books and the e-reading phenomenon has led to a rise in the sales of erotic and romantic fiction that

readers may once have felt too inhibited to buy and read in public.”

Like EL James, Phillipa started out her writing career on a fanfiction forum. However, while James was inspired by Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series, Phillipa took her inspiration from the Victorian novel, North & South by Mrs Gaskell.

She posted her first ever piece of romantic fiction anonymously on a fansite back in 2005. Her modern ‘fanfic’ tribute to North & South was so popular that she was encouraged to write her own original novel. That book, Decent Exposure, won the Romantic Novelists Association’s prestigious New Writers Award in 2007 and was made into a US TV movie in 2009. Her books have been published in many countries and languages and in 2011, made the Top 20 Amazon US romance best seller charts.

Earlier this year, Phillipa signed a two book deal with UK publisher, Piatkus, for Miranda’s Mount and a second book which will be published in June 2013.

Miranda’s Mount may also come out in print at a later date but it is available from October 4th from Amazon, WH Smith Kobo, Sony and all other e reader formats.

Phillipa has a website and blog at www.phillipa-ashley.com and can be found on twitter at @PhillipaAshley.

Page 39

GazetteWoman

Cherry Vanilla Raises £2,078 for charity C

herry Vanilla Hair Boutique has raised £2,078 for The Caudwell Children's Charity, after a vintage event held on Sunday 9th September at The Guildhall Lichfield.

Local support for this event was very good with 130 tickets sold. During the evening guests were entertained by vintage singers ‘A String of Pearls’ and Mrs Barbara Nice, the event’s compere had the audience in stitches.

The Cherry Girls entertained the audience with their expertise in creating vintage hair styles through the decades. This was followed by a catwalk show involving 18 models including two ‘mini Hippies’ Paige Howen, the granddaughter of Su Lindsay the owner of Cherry Vanilla and event organiser, and her friend Emily Browne. Though both are just 8 years old they stole the show.

Bijou at No.15 showcased some of Gemma Ramage's designs and the Burlesque

Dancers Miss Sherry Trifle and Scarlet Daggers proved very popular. Their routines were followed by a 30-minute workshop where six volunteers were taught the art of 'Burlesque'.

Su Lindsay, commented: “I would like to say a BIG thank you to everyone who took part but especially thank you to my family, friends & staff without you all 'A Vintage Affair' wouldn't have been possible.”

All money raised will be put towards buying two therapy cycles.

Lichfield’s Own Designer Label in Tamworth Street • Bijou Boudoir designer label • For women of every shape and size • Also other newly introduced designer labels to tempt you • Best of British selection • Soon to feature lifestyle facets • Bijou Boudoir designs have been worn by celebrities such as Mischa Barton!

15 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, Staffs WS13 6JP Tel: 01543 411201 www.bijou15.com

see us on Facebook and Twitter

Page 40 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Page 41

GazetteWoman

Keep Warm and Stay Stylish

this October

O

ne of the great things about the Autumn/Winter season is the opportunity to shop for lots of lovely new accessories. Hats, scarves, snoods and gloves can all be updated every year without breaking the bank, changing the look of last season’s coat and bringing things bang up to date.

Lichfield has many independent fashion boutiques and they all now have their new outerwear ranges in stock. I took a trip around just a small selection, and discovered a range of beautiful accessories, in all of this season’s hottest shades, from gossamer light to chunky and soft. Perfect for snuggling up in this autumn.

1. White Stuff Oatmeal Loveheart hat £19.95 – Available from La Boutique 2. White Stuff Loveheart Flip Mitt £17.50 – Available from La Boutique 3. White Stuff Loveheart Fairisle Scarf £27.50 – Available from La Boutique 4. Great Plains Damson Bobble Scarf £40 – Available from La Boutique 5. White Stuff Berry Forever Heart Pashmina £19.95 – Available from La Boutique 6. White Stuff Toasted Almond Snood £25 – Available from La Boutique 7. Brat & Suzie White Stag Snood £17.50 – Available at Bijou at No.15 8. Brat & Suzie Brown Squirrel Snood £17.50 – Available at Bijou at No.15 9. Dents Navy Bow Scarf £39 – Available from Bustle 10. Dents Navy Bow Hat £30 – Available from Bustle 11. Dents Navy Bow Gloves £16 – Available from Bustle 12. Bailey of Hollywood Red Fedora £45 – Available from Dame Oliver’s 13. Milans Fine Wool Abstract Scarf (grey/blue) £24.50 – Available from Dame Oliver’s

6

4

3

2

1

9 10 12 11

13

Stockists Details.

Bijou at No.15 15 Tamworth Street, Lichfield. WS13 6JP Tel: 01543 411201 www.bijouboudoir.com Bustle 15 Market Street, Lichfield. WS13 6JX Tel: 01543 251370 Dame Oliver’s. 19 Dam Street, Lichfield. WS13 6AE Tel: 015432 56600 www.dameoliver’s.co.uk La Boutique. 2 Market Street, Lichfield. WS13 6LH Tel: 01543 414149 www.laboutiquelichfield.co.uk

Page 42 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

5

8

7

Page 43

GazetteWoman Feature

La Boutique

Celebrating four very successful years

SEE OUR NEW ‘WHITE STUFF’ BOUTIQUE AND BOOK IN FOR A STYLING SESSION

White Stuff

It seems like only yesterday that La Boutique opened at 2 Market Street and yet this lovely boutique has been open for four years and has now firmly established itself within the local community as a friendly and relaxing place for ladies to shop.

Whilst La Boutique continues to stock many firm favourites, including Joules, Great Plains and Fransa, they have also been pleased to announce that they are now exclusive stockists in Lichfield of B. Young and French Connection.

La Boutique also expanded the

collection of their ever popular White Stuff, turning the ground floor into an area dedicated to this fabulous brand, offering a wider range of their Autumn/Winter 2012 collection including knitwear, dresses/tunics, outerwear as well as superb accessories and jewellery.

To improve and expand on the experience each and every customer has when shopping at La Boutique, they are pleased and excited to announce that the store manager Dawn is now a fully trained personal stylist.

“Having a colour consultation is a great way to give you confidence and bring the right colours into your wardrobe. During the consultation we look at which colours work best for you, wearing the right colours can instantly make you look healthy, young and vibrant. We are currently offering the service to La Boutique customers for £30. I also offer a 2 hour style and Colour consultation for £60. Learning to dress for your bodyshape can really make a difference to the way you shop and look.”

Inside shop

ST IVES KNIT DRESS- £59.95 - A knitted fairisle dress with buttons at the front and a detachable tie at the waist. It looks fab with a snood and a little pair of ankle boots. 33%Viscose, 23% Nylon, 18% Cotton, 18% Lambswool, 4% Angora, 4% Cashmere. Machine washable Up stairs

BAILEY DRESS, £59.95 - This printed jersey dress has pleats at the front and an elasticated waistband. We think it looks great with tan leather boots and a longline necklace. 100% Cotton

10% 10% off

off

STYLING & with this voucher COLOUR SERVICES

WHITE STUFF

La Boutique 2 Market Street, Lichfield WS13 6LH Tel: 01543 414149 Dawn and Jean discuss colours Page 44 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

info@laboutiquelichfield.co.uk

with this voucher

La Boutique 2 Market Street, Lichfield WS13 6LH Tel: 01543 414149 info@laboutiquelichfield.co.uk

Page 45

Summer Weddings

GazetteFeature

Emily married Jim O'Brien on Friday 31st August with an intimate ceremony at Lichfield Registry Office. Emily works at a local cafe and Jim is a local chef. The newly weds continued to enjoy the day at Ego restaurant and are looking forward to a honeymoon next year. Thank you for letting Pink'd Up photograph your lovely Big Day. Best wished, Amanda Stuart.

David Chandler and Kimberley Green were married on the 1st September in a civil ceremony at the George Hotel in Lichfield. Kimberley and David enjoyed a wonderfully relaxed day that included photographs in local park gardens. Their reception also took place at the George Hotel.

Pink'd Up Design & Photography.

Photography by Robert Yardley

Ann Asbridge & Jon Merrick 14th September 2012 Married at the Belfry

Steve Huckfield and Vanetta Wilkins from Lichfield were married in a civil ceremony at the George Hotel, Lichfield on 14th September, and the George Hotel was also the setting for the wedding reception.

Photography by Vivienne Bailey

Page 46 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Photography by Robert Yardley

Charlotte and Carl Downie got married in Gambassi in Italy on 16th August. Amanda Stuart from Pink'd Up had the pleasure of photographing Charlotte and Carl's wedding reception on Saturday 25th August, starting at Netherstowe House Hotel then onward to Darnford Moors. Charlotte is a teacher of year 4 and Carl is a teacher of year 2. The couple will be honeymooning in Val D'Isere over Christmas.

Pink'd Up Design & Photography.

Page 47

GazetteDining Out

Christmas Party Fare at Qmin in Lichfield The festive seasons really starts at Lichfield’s leading Indian restaurant on 1st December. The Christmas Party Menu is available from that date up to 24th December.

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

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

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

Small or large parties are very welcome.

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

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

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

Page 48 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

RUBY Chinese New year! An unforgettable evening at the Ruby Cantonese and Chinese Restaurant. Some have even said that; “Chinese New year at the Ruby is better than the English New Year…period!”

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

Christmas parties! The Ruby Cantonese and Chinese Restaurant is a fantastic place to host your Christmas parties and meals. With 3 generations of experience making sure that you are happy and well fed, there is no other logical choice! Large round tables for a more sociable atmosphere, a private function room with screen and projector for added festivities. The Ruby is somewhat of a land mark in Lichfield. So; “don’t just have a Chinese… have a Ruby”

For Bookings or to discuss your requirements, please telephone

01543 251144.

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

Cracking Christmases Start At Netherstowe House

GazetteDining Out

!

Lee Garden SPECIAL OFFER

T

he 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 roaring open fires, evergreen floral displays from the garden, a genial atmosphere and inspired menus that feed the very soul, Netherstowe House captures the true essence of Christmas.

Commencing in early December, the award winning hotel and restaurant celebrates yuletide in customary fashion by offering the best seasonal cuisine and the warmest hospitality. Relax and enjoy the tidings of comfort and joy at Netherstowe House whilst you feast on our traditional winter fayre which this year includes a festive themed afternoon tea, luxury private dining menu and extra special Christmas Day lunch.

Netherstowe House is home to the most enjoyable house party over the Christmas holiday and everyone is invited. While they cannot promise you a white Christmas, if you are looking for the ultimate festive experience, bring your colleagues, friends and family to Netherstowe House and be sated in style.

Just over a mile from the city centre, this exclusive address has become synonymous with first class service, quality food and a uniquely sophisticated ambience. Once the largest residence in Lichfield and tucked away on the city’s semi-rural northern boundary, the Grade II listed Netherstowe House exudes elegance.

The approach to the 18th century mansion house gives a real sense of seclusion and privacy, which coupled with delightful grounds make it the ideal VIP venue for those looking to indulge in a seasonal soiree.

Places are limited for the Christmas Day lunch. Festive afternoon teas must be reserved at least four days in advance and service takes place 1pm - 5pm (Monday – Saturday) and 3pm - 5pm (Sunday). Private dining for 10 – 30 guests or exclusive hire of the hotel for up to 50 people can be arranged to meet customer’s specific requirements.

To reserve places for your staff party during December or to hold your very own Christmas family get together, just call one of the friendly reservations team on 01543 254270. For more information, visit www.netherstowehouse.com

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER ONLY! * Free Bottle of House Wine for every table of 4 persons. * 20% off A La Carte Menu *Offer until end of November *Between Sunday to Thursday *Applies to A La Carte and Set menus *Only one offer can be used at any one time *Not in conjunction with any other offer *Excluding Sunday buffet lunch/special business lunch menu *Maximum discount of £50 per booking.

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 lunchtimes and till late Superb function room, seats upto 65 Visit our website: www.leegardenrestaurants.co.uk 50 Tamworth Street, Lichfield WS13 6JJ Tel: 01543 418515/01543 254388 Page 49

IN LICHFIELD

Send your what’s on listings to paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

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 quoting the date, event title, times, venue and brief description to paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Sun 30 Sep - Sun 7 Oct Lichfield Literature At venues across Lichfield City. separate panel.

See

Mon 1 Oct - Thu 31 Jan Lichfield Treasures At Lichfield Heritage Centre. A rare opportunity to see treasures belonging to Lichfield that are not usually on display.

Usual exhibition charges apply Wed 3 Oct Des O'Connor 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Don't miss this rare opportunity to see a true showbusiness legend live on stage for a wonderful evening of comedy, laughter and music.

Turning the Pages of History library tour 10.30am at Lichfield Cathedral. Explore the hidden treasures of the historical library, built in 1249. 17th century (featuring the Duchess of Somerset’s bequest). Tickets £9.00 from the Cathedral bookshop at No. 9 The Close or telephone 01543 306150.

Nancy Kerr & James Fagan 8.30pm at Guildhall. A scintillating mix of traditional and contemporary acoustic music drawn mostly from the English and Australian traditions Thu 4 - Sun 28 Oct Autumn Woods at Yoxall Lodge On Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun throughout Oct at Yoxall Lodge. The ancient woodlands are set ablaze at this time of year by stunning autumn colours. Enjoy the soft autumnal air as you meander along footpaths, fallen leaves crunching underfoot, and witness the final show of glorious autumn hues before the onset of winter.

Thu 4 Oct - Mon 24 Dec Charity Christmas Cards 9.30am to 5.00pm at The Plant Plot. Charity Christmas cards on sale until Christmas Eve. More than 30 local and national charities represented.

Thu 4 Oct Jim Davidson - The Legend!

7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. live, dangerous and as uncompromising as ever.

A hysterical evening of stand up comedy featuring one of Britain's greatest ever comedians.

Fri 5 Oct The Rockin' Berries - The Silver Threads and Golden Tonsils Tour 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. The Rockin' Berries hit the road again with music and Page 50 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

OCTOBER 2012 memories from that wonderful rock'n'roll era of the late fifties and swingin' sixties.

Proof 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. After tackling the fine tight-rope between insanity and genius, Mathematical virtuoso Robert passes away, leaving his daughter Catherine to battle the same mental health demons - but that's not the only fatherly asset she inherits...

Sat 6 Oct Ride to the Wall 2.00pm at National Memorial Arboretum. A spectacular annual fundraising motorcycle ride. Includes a remembrance service and activities throughout the day. FREE entry (donations welcome) A Pocket Full of Bricks 7.00pm and again at 8.30pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Intimate Theatre presents an evening of Shakespearean entertainment, so brush up on your Shakespeare with this light-hearted wander through the Bard’s works. £6.50, including a drink.

Gerard Kenny 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. International singer, songwriter and pianist appears with his band of international musicians.

Timeless hits include New York, New York (So Good They Named It Twice), I Could Be So Good For You, I Made it through the Rain and many more.

Harvest Supper 7.30pm at St John's Church, Wall.

Communal supper, with wine and entertainment. Tickets £10, tel: 01543 411361.

A Day of Cajun Dance 11.00am to 11.00pm at Guildhall. With The Whiskey River Boys and Out of The Swamp. Following the success of our first Day of Dance back in January this second instalment focuses on Cajun dancing, with workshops, DJ led dance sessions and two fantastic live Cajun bands. This event is suitable for beginners and experienced dancers alike so why not come along and join in the fun!

Go to www.lichfieldarts.org.uk or call the box office on 01543 262223 for more information.

Sun 7 Oct Local Beers Gourmet Dinner Netherstowe House welcome you for a sumptuous evening of the finest food, accompanied by the very best local beers from Burton Bridge Brewery. The evening will be hosted by Steve Harris of Burton Bridge Brewery who will introduce the beers chosen to inspire the five course dinner which has been specifically created

by Head Chef for the occasion. 5 course gourmet dinner with matched local beers:

GazetteWhat’s on £75.00 per person (Matched Wine Substitute Available Upon Request at Booking).

and bring a tear to the eye of anyone who's ever had a dad or been a dad or even been in the same house as a dad.

Seed Gathering Sunday 10.00am to 12 noon and again at 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Meet at the Community Gardens to find seeds to decorate your pot and plant your seeds.

Booking essential. Suitable for ages 5+. £2.

Fri 12 - Sat 13 Oct Elle & The Pocket Belles with Special Guests 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. Five sassy, soulful, and stylish ladies singing swing...

Darwin Walk Autumn 10.00am from Mallets Corner car park. The Widdershin’s Walk starts from Mallets Corner (car park at the junction of Ryknild St and Tamworth Rd). For more information Tel: 01543 252246 or go to www.darwinwalk.org.uk

Fri 12 Oct Paul Zerdin - Puppet Master

Honk!

2.00pm and 5.30pm at Lichfield Garrick.

Guaranteed to be fun filled entertainment for all the family to enjoy as we see Hans Christian Andersen's tale ‘The Ugly Duckling' given a witty (Olivier Award Winning) twist.

Tue 9 Oct The Co-op: Past, Present and Future 2.30pm at St. Michael’s Church Hall. John Boyle, Education Officer of the Midland Coop, will give an illustrated overview of this important local institution. This programme of events is part of the fellowship and outreach of St Michael-on-Greenhill Church providing additional income for the refurbishment of St. Michael’s Church Hall.

Refreshments will be served. £3.00 donation.

The Vagina Monologues 8.00pm at Lichfield Garrick. This hilariously witty and moving collection of stories is an unmissable show for every generation bring your mum, your best friend, your sister or even your gran - this is the ultimate girls night out... trust us!

Wed 10 - Sun 14 Oct Creation Festival At Lichfield Cathedral. A full programme of school events on Wednesday to Friday, a creation-themed Messy Church on Saturday morning, and a flagship lecture event on the Saturday afternoon with two key-note speakers (including the Revd Prof Tim Gorringe), with displays and themed worship.

Wed 10 Oct Return to Titanic - Construction, Disaster, Discovery 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Join Rory Golden on his dives around the wreck and experience what it's like to view Titanic only inches away. A two-part 80-minute presentation covering the construction and loss in 1912, discovery in 1985, artefact recovery expeditions and the personal recollections of actually diving to the ship.

Thu 11 Oct Wait 'til Your Father Gets Home 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Written by and starring Don Maclean and Malcolm Stent with songs by Harvey Andrews, this promises to exercise the chuckle muscles

7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. It's not just the puppets he's controlling! The internationally acclaimed ventriloquist returns to the live arena with Puppet Master, an exhilarating new show, jam-packed with surprises, twists and turns.

Maddy Prior with Giles Lewin and Hannah James 8.30pm at Guildhall. This line up approaches traditional and written material from interesting and varied perspectives.

Maddy, "The voice of Folk Music", Giles is a multi-talented instrumentalist and singer and Hannah brings a multitude of talents to the show including singing, accordion, clog dancing and youth!

Sat 13 Oct Shakatak 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. This band has enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely paralleled in contemporary music but then Shakatak is a particularly unusual group. All their hits and more!

Ben's Big Guild Concert 7.30pm at Bader Hall, King School. Kaleidoscope Choir friends make music in aid of Project. Tickets £3.50, £6, 415903

Edward VI and young The Kenya call 01543

Harvey Andrews' Farewell Concert

8.00pm at Guildhall. Celebrating fifty years of songwriting, Harvey Andrews performs his final two concerts as a full time travelling troubadour. More than just a guaranteed, highly enjoyable evening - it is an amazing experience. For Harvey is not just a wonderful singer & guitarist but is also a fascinating, and frequently hilarious, storyteller.

Sun 14 Oct

Bridal Fayre at Hawkesyard Estate 11.00am to 3.00pm at Hawkesyard Estate.

Over 30 Exhibitors covering all services to assist you planning your perfect wedding day!

culinary courtiers Master Chef Simon Smith and ‘Lord High Executioner' Roland Rotherham as they take you on a trip to explore some of the most delicate food in the world. Sayonara!

Seed Gathering Sunday

Auctioneer Evening 7.30pm at St John's Church, Wall. Mr Winterton will give a talk about his work as an auctioneer and valuer. Tickets £5, Tel: 01543 411361

2.00pm to 4.00pm at Chasewater Country Park. Join the Chasewater Country Park Team gathering and identifying the many seeds scattered around the park, use the seeds you collect to create your own authentic art work. FREE event.

City of Lichfield Concert Band Autumn Concert 2.30pm at Guildhall. Enjoy an afternoon of varied music from a popular local concert band. £8 adult, £7 concessions available from S&J Music, Bird St. The Nick Ross Orchestra - Sounds of the Glen Miller Era 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. The lights soften, the mood settles. An audience waits for that first moment of sound. Recapture the sounds of a bygone era as the orchestra presents the Classic Big Band Sound of the 1940s.

Tue 16 - Sat 20 Oct The Importance of Being Earnest 7.30 pm (and 2.30pm Sat) at Lichfield Garrick. Middle Ground Theatre Company presents Oscar Wilde's hilarious and timeless masterpiece – a wonderful comedy of mistaken identity.

Wed 17 Oct Enlightened Inventions: What the Georgians Did For Us 9.30am to 4.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House. The third annual seminar day with speakers on the subject of inventions and engineering. £25 including lunch.

Swinfen Scandal 2.30pm and again 7.30pm at Lichfield Heritage Centre. Costumed performers tell the story of Patience Swinfen and her battle against the establishment. £5 matinee, £7.50 evening (including refreshments Thu 18 Oct Darwin's Ghosts: The Search for Darwin's Predecessors 7.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House.

Rebecca Stott, author of Darwin’s Ghosts, speaks on the predecessors of evolutionary theory. Tickets £7.

Fri 19 Oct Historical Cookery and Mayhem - The Court of Mikado 12 noon at Lichfield Garrick Studio. Now here's a change; a journey back in time to the court of the Emperors of Japan. Join the

Sat 20 Oct Colourpoint, Rex Coated and AOV Cat Competition 12.30pm at Bader Hall, King Edward VI School. For more information go to www.craov.co.uk or call 01543 683433.

Lichfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Present: Meet on the Ledge 7.30pm at Whittington Village Hall. The popular Midlands based folk-rock band.

Telephone 01543 671427 for price - cost includes supper.

The Canoldir Male Choir 7.30pm at St Chad's Church. The prestigious award-winning Birmingham male choir present a varied programme of musical entertainment.

Tickets £10 (including refreshments), call 01543 252036.

Sat 20 Oct Lichfield Wildlife Group - Fungus Foray 11.00am at St Michael’s Churchyard. Led

by Beverley Rhodes. Meet outside St. Michael's Church.

Free event.

Refreshments provided. Contact: Ray Allen 01543 251654.

Sun 21 Oct Up Close and Local - a showcase of Lichfield's musical talent!

8.00pm at Guildhall. FREE event. Are you a performer? Do you live in and around the Lichfield area? Would you like the chance to perform at the Lichfield Guildhall? If so then send an e-mail with the subject UP CLOSE AND LOCAL to info@lichfieldarts.co.uk briefly outlining what you do and if possible providing an online link to a previous live or recorded performance you have made.

Tue 23 Oct Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours 7.00pm at Lichfield Tourist Information Centre. An evening tour that will make your blood curdle and your spine tingle! It is rounded off with a visit to a local pub for a glass of mulled wine and a sausage roll.

Booking is essential. Tickets £6.25, call 01543 412112.

Tue 23 - Sat 27 Oct Carousel 7.30pm (and 2.30pm Sat) at Lichfield Garrick. A timeless family classic presented by the award winning Lichfield Operatic Society. You are reminded to bring your tissues!

Tue 23 - Sat 27 Oct Richard III 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick Studio. Perhaps Page 51

GazetteWhat’s on Shakespeare's most exciting political thriller! Presented by the Lichfield Players.

Wed 24 Oct Candlelit Tours 7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. A fully guided tour of the Cathedral is an inspiring experience under any circumstances, but the atmosphere of a tour by candlelight is one never to be forgotten. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets £12.50 call 01543 306150.

Thu 25 Oct The Knicker Lady 10.30am at The George Hotel. An unforgettable one-woman show by Rosemary Hawthorne with costume, social history and hilarity. £26, includes a threecourse carvery lunch.

7.30pm at Lichfield Cathedral. Join DECO for their autumn concert, featuring an evening of classical music in the cathedral.

Tickets £15 adult, £12 concessions, £5 children, call 01572 823861 Sun 28 Oct Joe Brown 7.30pm at Lichfield Garrick. Packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk, and rock ‘n' roll, all interwoven with Joe's effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences this sensational show is a musical journey not to be missed.

Irish Session 4.00pm to 8.00pm at the Queen’s Head.

FREE entry! Come along and join in the fun! A great selection of real ales and hot and cold food is available.

Fri 26 Oct The Clandestine Pudding Club 7.30pm at The George Hotel. Enjoy champagne and canapés followed by five desserts accompanied by a specially selected wine or spirit. £35.

Mon 29 Oct - Fri 2 Nov Half Term at Drayton Manor Theme Park Celebrate the autumn half-term with a day of fun and laughter. Call 0844 472 1960 or go to www.draytonmanor.co.uk for times and ticket prices.

The Clare Free Band 8.30pm at Guildhall. Clare is an artist who is redefining the blues for the modern world.

Her roots lie in the blues but her influences go way beyond the genre making her one of the most exciting new artists writing and performing in the blues world today.

Tue 30 Oct – Sat 3 Nov Treasure Island Various times at Lichfield Garrick. Shiver me timbers, it's Treasure Island - with Jassa from Disney's Art Attack! Ahoy there shipmates! Come and be a pirate. Set sail for fun and adventure with Jassa Ahluwalia as Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver, and all their friends in this wonderful show for all the family. Call 01543 412121 for details.

Sat 27 Oct Halloween Special All day at Chasewater Railway. An eerie evening with ghostly and ghoulish happenings and freaky fun for all the family.

Hosted by a team of junior volunteers.

Refreshments available.

Go to www.chasewaterrailway.org for times and prices.

Sat 27 Oct Cupcake Class 10.00am to 12 noon at Netherstowe House.

Join Netherstowe House's professional cake maker for a hands-on opportunity to develop your cake decorating skills in a fun, practical and supportive learning environment, whilst relaxing in beautiful surroundings. £55, includes two-course lunch.

Vintage Street 10.00am to 6.00pm at The George Hotel & Erasmus Darwin House. A street full of nostalgia, memorabilia, music, vintage clothing and inspired handmade products.

FREE event.

Feed the Birds Day 11.00am to 3.00pm at Beacon Park. Make a bird feeder to help the birds survive the winter. Children must be accompanied. £1 a feeder Halloween Arts and Crafts 1.00pm to 3.00pm at Chasewater Country Park. Get crafty this half term. Prepare yourself for Halloween with this terrifying workshop! Let your imagination run wild! £2 per child.

Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra Page 52 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Halloween Lantern Parade 3.00pm to 5.00pm at Chasewater Country Park. Design your own lantern and then join the parade around Chasewater South Shore. Will you meet the spooks and ghouls? Fancy dress is encouraged. £2 per child.

Light Party 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Emmanuel Christian Centre. Fun party for children in year groups 2 - 6. £1 per child Haunting Halloween 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Erasmus Darwin House. An evening of spooky trails, tales and activities for all the family.

Refreshments available. £2.

Lichfield Gruesome and Ghostly Tours See Tue 23 Oct for details.

Contact details for listed venues: Bader Hall - King Edward VI School, Kings Hill Rd, Lichfield WS14 9DE. Chasewater Country Park - Pool Rd, Brownhills WS8 7NL. Tel: 01543 370607 Drayton Manor Theme Park - Nr Tamworth B78 3SA Emmanuel Christian Centre - Netherstowe, Lichfield WS13 6TS. Tel: 01543 254596 Erasmus Darwin House - Beacon St, Lichfield WS13 7AD. Tel: 01543 306260 George Hotel - Bird St, Lichfield WS13 6PR. Tel: 01543 414822 Guildhall - Bore St, Lichfield WS13 6NE Holy Cross Church Hall - Chapel Lane, Lichfield WS14 9DX Lichfield Cathedral - The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD

Lichfield Garrick Theatre - Castle Dyke, Lichfield.

Tel: 01543 412121 Lichfield Heritage Centre - St Mary's Centre, Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 256611 Lichfield Tourist Information Centre – See Lichfield Garrick Theatre. Tel: 01543 412112 National Memorial Arboretum - Croxall Rd, Alrewas DE13 7AR. Tel: 01283 792333 Netherstowe House - Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield WS13 6AY. Tel: 01543 254270 Plant Pot - Western By-Pass, A51, Lichfield WS13 8JA. Tel: 01543 262805 Queen’s Head - Queen St, Lichfield WS13 6QD. Tel: 01543 410932 St Chad’s Church - St Chad's Rd, Lichfield WS13 7ND St John's Church - Wall, Lichfield WS14 0AS St. Michael's Church - 52 Church St, Lichfield WS13 6ED Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Breadmarket St, Lichfield WS13 6LG. Tel: 01543 264972 Whittington Village Hall - Langton Crescent, Lichfield WS14 9LR. Yoxall Lodge - Scotch Hills, Newchurch, Burton upon Trent. DE13 8RL

Lichfield Literature 2012 Saturday 29 September to Sunday 7 October 2012 For more information about the listed events and to book tickets: Call: 01543 306272 Or go online: www.lichfieldfestival.org The BIG Read: Red Dust Road From the end of September 200 FREE copies of Jackie Kay’s Red Dust Road have been available from the Festival Office to be distributed around Lichfield for you to take home and read. Then, on Sunday 7 October at 2.00pm, you can come and hear Jackie share her thoughts.

Sat 29 Sep Adapting Shakespeare 11.00 am at Lichfield Library. £5. Can Shakespeare be reinterpreted for a modern audience?

Sat 29 & Sun 30 Sep The Samuel Johnson Young Writers Scheme 10.00am – 3.00pm at Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. £25pp. Free event! A weekend of intensive workshops for budding young writers.

Sun 30 Sep Brian Clegg 11.30am at The George Hotel. £6. Forget fiction: time travel is real.

Terry Waite 2.00pm at The George Hotel. £7. In conversation with Sue Beardsmore.

Writing Crime Fiction 3.00pm at The George Hotel. £5. Claire McGowan is Director of the Crime Writers’ Association in the UK and tutor of Crime Writing at City University, London.

Michael Nazir-Ali 3.45pm at The George Hotel. £7. In conversation with Sue Beardsmore, the former Bishop of Rochester considers the impact that aggressive secularism, radical Islamism and multiculturalism are having on the Western world, and particularly Britain.

Conor Woodman 5.15pm at The George. £6. How Big Business Exploits the World's Poor and Why it Doesn't Have To. Alexei Sayle 7.00pm at The George Hotel. £8. Stalin Ate My Homework is a poignant and touching account of his childhood, growing up in Liverpool in the 1960s.

Mon 1 Oct David Stuttard 10.00 am at The George Hotel. £6. The Romans who Shaped Britain.

Gordon Bowker 11.45am at The George Hotel. £6. The author attempts to get beyond the exterior life to explore the inner landscape of James Joyce, an extraordinary writer who continues to influence and fascinate.

Richard Hamblyn 2.00 pm at The George Hotel £6. The Art of Science. A Natural History of Ideas.

Andrew Wallace-Hadrill 2.45pm at The George Hotel. £6.

Herculaneum. The Director of Research at the University of Cambridge, Classics Faculty and head of the Herculaneum Conservation Project.

Andrew St George 6.30pm at The George Hotel. £6. Royal Navy Way of Leadership - a terrific insight into the working methods of a military organisation.

Helen Rappaport 10.00 am at The George Hotel. £6.

Magnificent Obsession: Victoria, Albert and the Death that Changed the Monarchy.

When Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, died in December 1861 the nation was paralysed with grief.

Tue 2 Oct Roger Luckhurst 11.45am at The George Hotel. £6. The Mummy's Curse: The True History of a Dark Fantasy. The idea that curses attach themselves to those who disturb ancient Egyptian artefacts has long been popular common currency.

Sinclair McKay 2.00pm at The George Hotel. £6. The Secret Listeners. Sequel to the bestselling The Secret Life of Bletchley Park. The author has once again unearthed a fascinating compendium of memories from surviving veterans.

Kathleen Taylor 3.45pm at The George Hotel. £6. The Brain Supremacy: Notes from the Frontiers of

GazetteWhat’s on Neuroscience, explores the science behind the hype, presenting the implications of this amazingly powerful new research.

Richard Moore 5.15pm at The George Hotel. £6. Sky's The Limit: Cavendish and Wiggins: The Quest to Conquer the Tour de France.

Tracy Edwards MBE 6.45pm at The George Hotel. £7. In conversation with Sue Beardsmore, the captain of the first all-female crew to take part in the Whitbread Round-the-World Yacht Race.

Poetry Alight 7.30pm at Spark Cafe Bar. Free event!

Midlands Poetry Showcase. An evening featuring the best of Midlands poetry.

Jenny Eclair 8.00pm at the Festival Marquee. £10. Life, Death and Vanilla Slices: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore.

Wed 3 Oct Happy Birthday, Fireman Sam! 10.30am at the Festival Marquee. Suitable for ages 3+, £4 per child. It is Fireman Sam’s birthday, but he has been called away from the party to an emergency. Can you help his friends give him a birthday surprise? Drama and games to celebrate 25 years of Fireman Sam. Pippa Greenwood 11.45am at the Festival Marquee. £8. A Gardener's Calendar; in conversation with Sue Beardsmore.

Matthew Fort 2.00pm at the Festival Marquee. £8. In conversation with Sue Beardsmore, one of the most recognisable food critics in Britain talks about his life and work.

Mark Forsyth 3.45pm at the Festival Marquee. £6. The Horologicon: A Day's Jaunt Through the Lost Words of the English Language, the author unearths words that you didn’t even know you needed.

David Wilson 5.15pm at The George Hotel. £6. The Lost Photographs of Captain Scott by the greatnephew of Dr Edward Wilson, who died with Captain Scott and his fellow explorers.

Fi Glover 6.45pm at the Festival Marquee. £8. In conversation with Sue Beardsmore, the award winning broadcaster and writer is one of this country’s best known radio voices.

Matthew Parris 8.15pm at the The George Hotel. £8. The Spanish Ambassador's Suitcase. Drawn from the National Archives and from Freedom of Information requests these ‘funnies’ make up a volume of entertaining and illuminating stories.

Thu 4 Oct Neil Hanson

10.00am at The George Hotel. £5. Get yourself into the mood for some of your own gGhost-writing with a talk from a man who has been there, done it, and scared the pants off plenty of people in the process!

Nursery Rhymes 10.30am at the Festival Marquee. Suitable for ages 0-3 years, £4 per child. Celebrate National Poetry Day with music and nursery rhymes for toddlers.

Laura Thompson 11.45am at The George Hotel. £6. Agatha Christie: An English Mystery. A detective job in itself, this author has unravelled both the detailed workings of Christie’s detective fiction, and the truth behind Christie’s private life.

Barry Milllington 2.00pm at The George Hotel. £6. Richard Wagner: The Sorcerer of Bayreuth. The music critic and editor of The Wagner Journal - considers Wagner’s inspirations.

John Cooper 3.45pm at The George Hotel. £6. The Queen's Agent: Francis Walsingham at the Court of Elizabeth I, a story of secret agents, cryptic codes and ingenious plots, set in a turbulent period of England’s history.

Ghostwriting 6.30pm at Lichfield Library. £5. Delve into the world of ghost-writing and explore how it can become a useful exercise for freelance writers.

Jennie Bond 6.00pm at Festival Marquee. £8. Amusing Anecdotes from a National Treasure, Jennie was the BBC’s Royal correspondent between 1989 and 2003.

John Challis 8.00pm at The George Hotel. £8. Being Boycie / Boycie and Beyond: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore.

Fri 5 Oct Harry Mount 10.00am at The George Hotel. £6. How England Made the English, a fascinating and witty book, explains how our national characteristics are all defined by our nation’s extraordinary geography, geology, climate and weather.

Dance Zoo - Pash Dance Company 10.30am at Festival Marquee. Suitable for ages 3+, £4 per child. Can you roar like a lion or slither like a snake? Get your dancing shoes on for a morning wake-up session, with music and movement inspired by the popular picture book Dear Zoo Peter Burke 11.45am at The George Hotel. £6. A Social History of Knowledge II: From the Encyclopaedia to Wikipedia. The cultural historian presents the concluding part of his systematic study of the collecting, analysing, disseminating, storing, accessing, using and losing of knowledge in the western world.

David Crystal 2.15pm at Festival Marquee. £7. The Samuel Johnson Talk.

Frank Close 4.00pm at the Festival Marquee. £6. The Infinity Puzzle: Quantum Field Theory and the Search for an Orderly Universe.

Dame Margaret Drabble 5.30pm at the Festival Marquee. £8. A Day in the Life of a Smiling Woman: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore Whisky Tasting with Ian Buxton 6.00pm at Worth Brothers Wine Merchants.

101 Whiskies to Try Before You Die. £10 (including drinks) / £6 When combined with a ticket for the literary dinner - redeemable by phone ONLY. Barry Cryer Drinks 7.30pm & Dinner 8.00pm at The George Hotel. £36 (three courses, excluding wine). The Lichfield Literary Dinner.

Sat 6 Oct Garry Shaw 10.00am at The George Hotel. £6. The Pharaoh: Life at Court and on Campaign.

The pharaoh is the iconic ruler of the ancient world. But how did these monarchs – mortals who live and died like anyone else – spend their days?

Family Storytelling 10.30am at the Festival Marquee £5. Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. A phizzwhizzing morning of Dirty Beasts and Revolting Rhymes with swizz-figgling storytellers.

Alexandra Harris 11.45am at The George Hotel. £6. Virginia Woolf - one of the towering figures of literary modernism. In this study weaves together Woolf’s life and work, providing an ideal introduction to both.

BFG Puppet Making 12 noon at Lichfield Library. £5. Workshop o celebrate the 30th anniversary of The BFG, join us for a puppet making workshop with puppet maker and performer Gemma Holland and create your own Big Friendly Giant puppet to take home.

Peter Caddick-Adams 12.15pm at the Festival Marquee. £6.

Monte Cassino: Ten Armies in Hell. One of the world’s authorities on battle field history gives a compelling and authoritative account of the greatest battle of the Italian campaign of WW2.

Peter Hain 2.00pm at The George Hotel. £7. Outside In: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore From militant anti-apartheid protester to one of the most familiar faces in British government.

John Crace 3.45pm at The George Hotel. £7.

Brideshead Abbreviated: The Digested Read of the Twentieth Century by the

Guardian columnist who has acquired a cult following.

Larry Lamb 7.00pm at the Festival Marquee. £8.

Mummy's Boy: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore.

Andy Kershaw 8.45pm at the Festival Marquee. £8. No Off Switch. Kershaw spent 15 years at Radio 1, where he shared an office with John Peel.

More recently a presenter on Radio 3, his record collection weighs seven tonnes.

SIEGE! 10.00am – 4.00pm at Festival Venues.

Ages 8 - 16 years. Free event! Would you like to run a Festival? We are looking for people aged 8 – 16 to take over our roles for the day. More information at www.lichfieldfestival.org Sun 7 Oct Patricia Fara 11.30am at The George Hotel. £6. Erasmus Darwin: Sex, Science and Serendipity Jackie Kay 2.00pm at The George Hotel. £7. Red Dust Road. The author writes extensively for stage, screen and for children. In 2010 she published this year’s Lichfield Literature Festival Big Read: Red Dust Road, an account of her search for her natural parents.

Sir Barry Cunliffe 3.30pm at The George Hotel. £6. Britain Begins - Using modern archaeological evidence, the author tells our island story from the arrival of colonising huntergatherers from mainland Europe 12,000 years ago, through to the eve of the Norman Conquest.

Tristram Hunt 5.00pm at Festival Marquee. £7. The English Civil War: At First Hand. Almost a quarter of a million lives were lost as King and Parliament battled for their religious and political ideals in the English Civil War. John D Barrow 5.00pm at The George Hotel. £6. 100 Essential Things You Didn't Know You Didn't Know About Sport. For the majority of humans, it is the ultimate question: What can maths tell us about sport?

Lucinda Dickens Hawksley 6.30pm at The George Hotel. £6. Charles Dickens - the definitive illustrated guide to the man and his works, follows Dickens from early childhood, and looks at how he became the greatest celebrity of his age.

Sir Digby Jones 7.45pm at the Festival Marquee. £12.

Fixing Britain: The Business of Reshaping Our Nation: in conversation with Sue Beardsmore. The former Trade Minister puts the spotlight on critical national and international business issues and lays out the essential reform urgently needed for the growth of our nation.

Page 53

GazetteSmall ads Home

COLLIS SHEDS QUEENS DRIVE, CHASETOWN, BURNTWOOD WS7 4QF www.collissheds.co.uk TEL: 01543 686370 FAX: 01543 675221 TIMBER FENCING • CONCRETE POSTS • UPVC FASCIA • GUTTERING • AGGREGATES • TIMBER • TIMBER CUT TO SIZE • ALL DIY NEEDS • HARDWARE • PAINTS

10% OFF Page 54 www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk

WITH THIS ADVERTISEMENT EXCLUDES OTHERS PROMOTIONS

Gold

GazetteSmall ads

Services

Motoring

Lichfield Gazette are looking for an additional

Advertising Salesperson

Business

If you think you have got what it takes and would like to join our sales team, we will shortly have a PART TIME vacancy (with potential to become Full Time). The position requires you to deal face to face with business people at all levels and will also involve tele-sales.

Previous sales experience would be an advantage when selling advertising for this local and well respected publication together with other potential future products.

The role will require you to travel around the area, so the use of a car and a full driving licence is necessary.

In the first instance please write to us and let us know what relevant experience you have and what you might be able to offer.

Please send an email for the attention of Paul Oakley marked ‘Advertising Salesperson’ to: paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk

Editor

Gazettecontacts

Paul Oakley 07875 475540 / 01543 302748 paul@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Deputy Editor

Joss Musgrove Knibb 07833 735048 gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk Production

Helen Smith 07967 154187 pebblesdesignagency@hotmail.co.uk

Distributors wanted contact Marie 07548 682576

Advertising

Vic McClure 07872 165695 vic@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Steve Brown 07740 166497 steve@lichfieldgazette.co.uk Rebecca Hill 07535 634794 rebecca.lichfieldgazette @gmail.com

LICHFIELD GAZETTE PO Box 5414, Lichfield, WS14 4EZ

www.lichfieldgazette.co.uk Page 55