L I C H F I E L D ’ S FA M I LY F U N DAY O U T ! O F F I C I A L B OW E R P R O G R A M M E , M AY 3 0 T H 2 0 1 6
www.lichfieldbower.co.uk
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COLLECTIONS AND THANKS Donations gratefully received in 2015... Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City
President:
Michael Mullarkey
Life President:
Andrew Lock
Vice Presidents:
Stephen Burns, Paul Davis, Jill Smith, Peter Smith, Trevor Morris, Julie Davis, Kath Marks, Margaret Gilmour, Mary Mullarkey, Robert Mullarkey, Lesley Warfield, Robert Whitfield, Jean Whitfield
Council, Staffordshire County Council, Planet Ice, Lichfield Health & Fitness Club, Anthony Harris, Arthur Price, Barnes Recycling & Skip Hire, Stephen Burns, Lichfield Limos, Comfort Foods, FM & J Wait, Hindleys, Jean Whitfield, R Evans (Butcher), Kings Head Pub, Lichfield Gazette, Lichfield Golf & Country Club,
Chairman:
Beth Colley
Vice-Chairman:
Robert Mullarkey
Secretary:
Lesley Warfield
Treasurer:
Keith Greaves
Beacon Park Org:
Beth Colley
Bower Queen Org:
Kath Marks, Hannah Woolley
Lichfield Mercury, Lovell Partnership,
Prince & Princess Org:
Perdita Lawson
Michaels Menswear, Murray & Willis, Pat
Publicity & Fund Raising: Beth Colley
Collins Fun Fair, R Meehan (butcher),
Procession:
Emma Jakeman
R Rawlins Tyres Burntwood, Robert
Bower Yard:
Paul Davis
Mullarkey, Robert Yardley, Tescos, Tippers
Chief Marshall:
Paul Davis
Building Materials, Tippers Home Centre,
Park Works:
Alex Towers
Town Market Stalls:
Stuart Jakeman
Programme:
Beth Colley, Kath Marks
West Midlands Ambulance Service, White Lodge Promotions, Mary Mullarkey, Roy Deakin, Chris Broome, Lichfield District Council Operational Services, Scales
Website:
Heath Rhodes, Stuart Jakeman
Music Event:
Heath Rhodes
Chief Steward:
Paddy Rusk
Public House, Walsall Wheelbarrow
Float Design & Build:
Robert Mullarkey
Company, Pete Smith, White Lodge
Court of Arraye:
Ron Hartley
Promotions, Humpty Dumpty Day
Minute Secretary:
Kath Marks
Nursery, Wilkinsons, A Rowe, Probus
City Council Rep:
Mrs Janice Greaves
Club, Jewsons, IMP UK, Norma and
Staff Police Rep:
Richard Dancy
Brian Bacon, Dee Communications
Honorary Members:
Mr & Mrs C Millard
Honorary Legal Advisor: Mr S R James, LLB Health & Safety:
THANK YOU! Huge thank you to our advertisers for once again supporting the Lichfield Bower and making this programme possible. We really appreciate their support and draw you attention to their services.
Carl Bishop
Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee Members Mr S Burns, Ms C Babbington, Ms B Colley, Mrs J Danks, Mr Davis, Mr B Ellett, Mr N Fletcher, Mrs M Gilmour, Mr & Mrs K Greaves, Mr & Mrs A Harris, Mr P Hitchman, Mr M Harris, Mr R Hartley, Mr & Mrs Howell, Mr S Jakeman, Ms J Jones, Ms L Fawdrey, Ms P Lawton, Mr G A Lock, Ms J Marks, Mrs K Marks, Mr T Morris, Mr M Mullarkey, Mr R Mullarkey, Mr C Nesbitt, Ms E Pritchard, Mr H Rhodes, Mr P Rusk, Mr & Mrs P Smith, Mr D Timms, Mr A Towers, Mr M Walker, Mrs L Warfield, Miss H Woolley, Mr J Wright.
WELCOME TO Lichfield Bower is a vibrant, lively tradition dating back over 800 years. It brings the city to life and the energy spreads through the streets that weave through the beautiful cathedral city of Lichfield and into Beacon Park. We say that there is ‘something for everyone’ because it’s absolutely true. The programme of events is carefully planned to please! In the city you will be entertained by a fun, fabulous and colourful procession in timehonoured tradition. Get caught up in the buzz as you cheer local clubs, businesses and organisations and, of course, the newly crowned Miss Lichfield. Thank you to everyone who gets involved in the procession, working for many long hours preparing their float and also to those who stand, support and cheer them on! We are grateful for you donations and distribute the proceeds from the street collection to the charities taking part. If you like a good market, you’ll love to mooch through the Bower market stalls – from crafts to produce and everything in between. 4
You’ll find stalls in the city and park with plenty of food outlets to choose from. And into the park! You will have a fantastic time whatever the weather. Observe, take part, picnic, play, meet friends – it’s just a wonderful opportunity to see your city park as never before! The RAF Falcon Parachute Display Team, Motosports International Stunt Display Team and the Portsmouth Action Field Gun Team will be entertaining you in the main arena, and a great music programme in the Music Tent will be taking you back to the 90’s where Dodgy will be performing, also local singer Shaun Smith and his band Stealth. We even make sure your canine friends are well looked after too with their own area ‘Paws in the Park’. Plan your Bank Holiday around the fun and games at Lichfield Bower and bring the whole family.
Wishing you a great Bower Day from all on the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee!
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After “Many thanks for your kindness and patience, we are so impressed with your efficiency and the proferssional way you make us oldies feel at ease” MARY - ABBOTS BROMLEY “Matt/Julie - Thank you both so much for putting me at ease and your reassurances were a big help” ANDY - DERBYSHIRE “Very satisfied with service and for the first time in many years I was able to eat and enjoy steak and chips on the day my partial denture was fitted” GILL - LICHFIELD “Since having a new pair of dentures made I have never looked back, they look good and feel great to show off. Many thanks to Matt for a professional job” WILLIAM - DERBYSHIRE “Matt and Julie you are stars, a big thank you for giving me my smile back” DENISE - RUGELEY
For a free no-obligation consultation, just ring the lovely people who make you smile:
AWARD WINNING
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A SOURCE OF NATIONAL PRIDE IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY... The National Memorial Arboretum is an evolving, maturing woodland landscape featuring 30,000 trees and a growing collection of memorials. The 150-acre site is a living tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country. There are many reasons to visit the Arboretum. Throughout the year the charity holds a range of notable events and activities, ranging this year from the family-focussed Armed Forces Day in June to Remembrance Sunday in November. Supported by The Royal British Legion, the Arboretum will also be running a number of Somme 100 related events and activities to help school children, cadets, uniformed organisations and other young people’s groups play an active role in these important commemorations. The events and activities also include a project at the Arboretum in which an artist in residence will work with the public, schools and institutions on a mass-participation art installation. Visitors are also being invited to unearth their ancestral history and discover their family tree in a series of genealogy workshops. A new £15.7m Remembrance Centre, which will educate, inspire and inform around 500,000 visitors per year, is currently under construction. Due to open in the autumn, the new centre will include a spacious welcome and orientation area, remodelled
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restaurant and shop, and a large exhibition space dedicated to the interpretation of Remembrance. The Arboretum remains open throughout the construction period. The facilities are being provided thanks to a major fundraising campaign, launched by HRH The Duke of Cambridge, along with generous donations from both Staffordshire County Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Located off the A38 between Burton on Trent and Lichfield, the Arboretum is free to enter and its full programme of events runs throughout the year. It also offers regular guided walks and buggy tours around the memorials and grounds, and holds a daily Act of Remembrance, including a two-minute silence, in the Millennium Chapel. For further information about the Arboretum please call 01283 245 100, email info@thenma.org.uk or visit www.thenma.org.uk
A memorial commemorating the Women’s Land Army and Women’s Timber Corp is just one of more than 320 memorials at the ever growing Arboretum.
TRAINEE TEACHER TAKES THE CROWN AT MISS LICHFIELD SELECTION NIGHT The competition was fierce as the contestants took to the floor of a packed out room at St. John’s House, a boutique hotel in Lichfield. The atmosphere was electric at this impressive venue and the girls were dressed to impress. Kate Chaplin, former Bower Queen and now presenter for Notts TV grilled the girls about why they would be perfect to represent the Lichfield Bower. There was an agonising wait as judges Sophie
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Walker of NUYU, Gemma Rammage of Bijou, Alex Lloyd from the Garrick Theatre, Dan Ralley of St Johns House and Andy Kerr from the Lichfield Mercury began their long deliberation. But with the girls all having something unique to offer to the role, they had an extremely difficult decision on their hands. It was 15 year old local talent, Chloe Shaw that kept the room mesmerised with her incredible vocals as votes came in.
A touch of glamour was brought to St Johns Street!
Picture reproduced courtesy of the Lichfield Mercury
When judges returned, the room fell silent and Dan Ralley took to the mic to announce that this years winner was 22 year old trainee teacher, Hannah Foster from Lichfield. In complete shock, she told the room “I just feel shocked, amazed and on cloud nine! I am raring to go and really looking forward to the next 12 months.�
Her two side kicks and this years Miss Lichfield Ambassadors would be 19 year old Tiffany Cruise and 18 year old Katie Clarke. Family, friends and civics flocked to the floor to congratulate all the girls on a truly fantastic selection night, on what was an extremely exciting start to the Lichfield Bower 2016.
Kate Chaplin with judges Sophie & Gemma Hannah, Tiffany and Katie will be driven around the procession route in a vintage car courtesy of Love Wedding Cars.
FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN DAY NOT TO BE MISSED.... Following the procession and crowning of Miss Lichfield outside the Guildhall at 12 noon Beacon Park comes alive with lots for everyone to enjoy. The main arena will explode into action with a stunning Motorcycle Stunt Displays team. Moto-Stunts International display have a team of 8-10 motorcycle riders including Britains top female motorcycle stunt rider and skilled trick and freestyle display jumpers. The team is also one of the UK’s largest car stunt display teams, and one of few display teams to include Cars, race Quads, Motorcycle stunts and specialist vehicles. Watch in awe as the Portsmouth Action Field Gun Team perform their flat field gun run – said to be the toughest team event in the world! Keep your eyes open for a Battle of Britain fly past around this time! At 3.30pm look to the skies and see the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team fall from the skies. Widely recognised as the UK’s premier military parachute display team, the Falcons, based at RAF
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Brize Norton, Oxfordshire will be an amazing treat for everyone in Beacon Park! There’s a buzzing music tent with English power pop rock trio Dodgy who rose to prominence during the Britpop era of the 1990s headlining this year and Stealth fronted by local singer Shaun Smith will also be performing. Wander through the park and indulge yourself in the colourful array of fairground attractions, charity stalls, arts and crafts, our fabulous ‘Paws in the Park’ dog show, picnic areas, food stalls and fine wines and Prosecco from Lichfield’s Worth Brothers Wine Merchants. Kids will love the play areas and the chance for an icecream treat! Bring your friends and family and while away a fun afternoon in Beacon Park for the incredible price of just £3 - Under 5’s go FREE. Tickets are available online at lichfieldbower.co.uk - avoid the queues and gain quick entry via the special wristband entry.
Meet the Falcon Team after their jump - they will be mixing and mingling hoping to raise funds for their chosen charity Make a Wish!
MAIN ARENA OPENS 12.30
1.00 Boswell & his Bosettes 1.15
Motostunts International
2.00 Portsmouth Action Field Gun 2.45 Miss Lichfield 3.30 RAF Falcons Parachute Display 3.45 Portsmouth Action Field Gun 4.30 Motostunts International Please note this is for guidance only as times can change due to unforeseen circumstances.
THE MUSIC TENT
The Music Tent is now in its fourth year and continues to grow. This year we are really pleased to announce the main band as Dodgy. The first time round, Dodgy were only together for seven years but in that time they sold over a million records worldwide, released three albums and 12 Top 40 singles, including Staying Out For The Summer, In A Room, If You’re Thinking Of Me and the Top 5 hit Good Enough, still a staple of the radio play lists. We are really honoured to have Dodgy playing The Lichfield Bower in 2016 especially as this is the year of their first album release in four years. ‘What Are We Fighting For’ is due for a Summer 2016 release on Cherry Red Records, featuring the amazing Vanessa Wilson from Ultrasound on a few tracks. The boys believe it is their best ever record, but they’re not the only ones – Cenzo Townshend (Florence, U2, Primal Scream etc) heard the demos and demanded to mix some tracks. Similarly, Rob Da Bank heard two tracks and offered Dodgy a slot on the Mainstage at Bestival. Also local singer Shaun Smiith will be performing with his band Stealth. Stealth has risen to prominence and left his mark as one of the most sought after voices in 12
dance music. He has co-written with and featured on the collaboration between drum & bass heavyweights Netsky Vs. Metrik with ‘Can’t Speak’, the latest output from production extraordinaire Nitin Sawhney ‘When I’m Gone’, and has become a Radio 1/1Xtra favourite from his work with Roger Sanchez on ‘Remember Me’ and the fiery ‘Fearless’ with Drumsound & Bassline Smith. 2015 saw Stealth carving a distinct path of his own with the title track of Intro. The single saw Stealth championed by BBC Introducing and gain a wealth of early high profile press support from the likes of Shortlist, Music Week, Red Bull Music, Gigwise and FAULT Magazine to name but a few.
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Lichfield Bower... a time to come together! by Simon Baker
The Lichfield Greenhill Bower has at least part of its origins in the muster of men at arms from the different wards that make up the city of Lichfield. In medieval times these local defence volunteers provided security for the city from outside attack and also security within the city because they acted as a kind of police force. Venerable Simon Baker, Rector of St Michael, Archdeacon of Lichfield
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To be able to call on a trained military But there is something that all of us force was important in what were can do to show that there is more often dangerous and uncertain times. to be gained by being together than Any city could feel under threat from being divided – greater worth in political instability, or footpads and human lives shared than in people robbers on the roads separated or segregated. interrupting trade and What we can do is What we can travellers. It is easy in willingly and joyfully join times of seeming danger do is willingly in community events and uncertainty to and joyfully join like the Bower. Shared become suspicious of celebrations like the Bower people who are “not like in community need to be as inclusive as us” and to feel wary of events like the possible – inclusive across others whose motives age, gender, background and loyalties might, we Bower... and culture. When we join imagine, be suspect. together we demonstrate Today we live in uncertain and, some openly that we believe that there is would say, dangerous times. Recent more that unites us than divides us and events in Paris and Brussels make us that we are open to the contribution feel that no-where is as safe as it once and offering of everyone. might have been and that travel by A fun day and a carnival atmosphere public transport is potentially more might seem a small thing in the light of dangerous than in the past. This leads some of the problems that face us but to increased wariness and suspicion of in reality it is a powerful thing because others. This is, of course, exactly what it draws together so many people. those who bring about such violent acts hope will happen – that we will We will celebrate all the things that feel more vulnerable and that we will unite us – especially the Bower – at our turn on each other in our anxiety. Bower Service on Sunday 29th May at 10.00am in St Michael’s on Greenhill. In There is not much that you or I can the service we shall pray for all those do about this. We are not going to who lead our communities and offer turn others from wanting to achieve themselves to public service for the their aims by violent means. We can good of all. You are most welcome to be watchful but that will not make us join us. totally secure.
Bower Church Service Bower Sunday ~ 29th May 2016, 10am at St Michael’s on Greenhill The Bower Church is St Michael’s on Greenhill and as is tradition the Bower Committee, Bower Queen the Mayor, Sheriff and Councillors walk from the Guild Hall to a special service there on Bower Sunday. The procession winds up Greenhill to the church led by a band, and is greeted by The Rector, who is traditionally the Bower Chaplain, and the Church wardens before joining the congregation to bless the Bower and all who take part in it.
OUR 2016 PRINCE & PRINCESS & DEPUTIES...
SUPER HEROES TAKE
OVER THE GUILDHALL! The princes and princesses for this year’s Lichfield Greenhill Bower have been chosen at a special “super hero day” at the Guildhall. The event was hosted by My Party Pals and featured a web-slinging Spiderman, a high fiving Batman and the Bower’s very own Boswell Bear. All the children attended in super hero costume and had a great time. The judges on Sunday April 10, were reigning deputy Bower Queen Tegan Grist, Alex Lloyd from the Lichfield Garrick Theatre, Tina Rowe a governor for St Joseph’s school, Ann Bateman and Nicola Holt. After some limbo dancing with Spiderman
and Batman and playing musical statues, Leon Hathaway, aged six, and Elsa Walker, aged six, were crowned Deputy Prince and Princess and Joel Quirk, aged nine, and Faith Breese, aged nine, were crowned the Prince and Princess. Other children were chosen to take part in the Bower procession. Lichfield Greenhill Bower Prince and Princess organiser Perdita Lawton said: “I would like to thank mypartypals.co.uk, the judges, members of the Bower committee for their support and the parents and children who attended and made it such a fantastic afternoon. “I would also like to thank Robert Yardley and Jayne Marks for photographing the event.”
Bower Prince Joel Quirk (9) Bower Princess Faith Breese (9) Deputy Prince Leon Hathaway (6) Deputy Princess Elsa Walker (6)
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J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Now Lichfields only family run funeral directors here to help you at your time of need. For our personal care and attention please call 01543 255776 or 01283 792923
We are at:
www.jhowellfuneraldirectors.co.uk
Cooked to Perfection The Perfect Sunday Roast let time stop and enjoy the space we call M c KENZIE’S
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Local Steakhouse t: 01543 417371
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THE ULTIMATE BOWER DAY OUTING FOR YOUR TOP DOG
PAWS IN THE PARK... Welcome to Paws in The Park 2016 part of the Lichfield Bower annual celebrations in Beacon Park Lichfield.
There are loads of activities for you and your dog to enjoy at this years Paws in the Park including Scruffs Fun Dog Show, agility displays and a Search & Rescue demonstration. The show caters to
your every need; find behavioural demonstrations and one-to-one training. You’ll also meet local canine partners who provide care, support & advice to dog owners in the Lichfield area.
FOR IMPROVEMENT
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Paws in the Park opens for registration at 12pm for Scruffs Dog Show. Could your pooch walk away with one of these titles? • Waggiest Tail • Best Cross Breed • Best pedigree • Dog Judge Would Most Like To Take Home • Cutest puppy • Prettiest Bitch • Most Handsome Dog • Most talented Dog • Scruffiness Dog • Best pack There’s a free bandana for every dog entered provided by Groom for Improvement! The afternoons entertainment will feature a Good Citizen Display Scheme Prospectors Heel Work to Music, K9 Power Paws Protection Dogs Display and SSART Demonstration.
T I M E TA B L E 12.00 Register for Scruff’s 12.15
Good Citizens Scheme Display in RING 1
12.30 Attack Dog Display in RING 2 13.00 Heel work to Music Display in RING 1 13.15
Staffordshire Search and Rescue Display in RING 3
13.45 Good Citizen Scheme Display in RING 2 14.00 Scruff’s Starts in RING 1 14.15
Heel Work To Music Display in RING 3
Sponsors of the Fun Dog Show
15.00 Attack Dog Display in RING 2
QUALITY PET FOOD DELIVERED FREE TO YOUR DOOR
15.30 Staffordshire Search and Rescue Display in RING 3
QUALITY FOODS
16.30 BEST IN SHOW in RING 1
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Everything local at your fingertips! Visit us for... Recommended businesses Irresistible offers Local events Local info www.thebestof.co.uk/lichfield
Bringing trusted businesses and the community together @louieclegg
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thebestoflichfield
We don't cut corners! Providing skip and grab hire to Lichfield and surrounding areas Tipping welcome at our recycling sites. All waste is segregated at our new MRF (materials recycling facility), achieving an 80-85% recycling rate. Full range of skip sizes available for hire: mini, midi, maxi and high capacity roll on/off containers. Aggregates available: concrete sand, builders sand, gravel, MOT sub-base limestone, top soil and crushed brick.
Tel: 01543 262000
Fax: 01543 250480 Email sales@barnes-skips.co.uk www.barnes-skips.co.uk
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Daily Poppins Home Cleaning Services Home and commercial cleaning... weekly, fortnightly, monthly or just a one-off cleaning service Covering Lichfield and surrounding areas
01283 591160 01543 401005 www.dailypoppins.com
Tippers Building Materials Celebrating 100 Years Trading As A Builder’s Merchant! It was in 1916, that Tippers began trading as a Builder’s Merchant. Since then we have expanded to 10 branches (including our brand new store in Rugeley) with over 200 employees and over 870,000 square feet of supplies. With Summer around the corner you may well be thinking about sprucing up your garden, and at Tippers we can supply everything you need to create that perfect living space outdoors, be that a patio, decking, lighting or even a barbecue! You can find our top picks and best deals for the year in our new 2016 Outdoor Living brochure, which you can pick up in branch. In June we are launching our fantastic new Villeroy & Boch luxury bathroom showroom at our Lichfield branch. Our brand new displays feature the very latest in bathroom trends and technology: from stunning freestanding baths to mirrors which can play music!
THANK YOU Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City Council and Staffordshire County Council for their continued support. To WB Deakin & Sons, Potato Growers and Merchants of Weeford, for providing tractor and driver, and to NFU Insurance. Trent Valley 1st Responders and Staffordshire Search and Rescue. 22
BIG THANK YOU TO THE CIVILIAN SERVICES... Most of the time we take Police, Fire and Ambulance services for granted, valuing them only when they actually help us. However, the Police Force, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service have a 24 hour commitment to or wellbeing and a professionalism that does each a great credit. Without the willing assistance and advice of the Emergency Services, the Bower could not be celebrated at all.
THANK YOU To Golds Van Hire for their support of the Bower. Golds Van Hire are a local based car hire, van hire and truck hire company serving Staffordshire since 1967 and now more recently the West Midlands.
THANK YOU To Barnes Skip Hire for their continued support of the Bower Barnes Skips & Recycling has been established in Lichfield for over 30 years, although the Barnes family have been trading in Lichfield for 100 years, originally as undertakers and painter decorators! Now supplying to all surrounding areas as well such as Tamworth and Sutton Coldfield.
2015 cheque presentations were made to the following: Lichfield Trent Valley First Responders Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service
CITYLIFE In Lichfield
The best of old and new from our beautiful city
Erasmus Darwin House St Giles Hospice Lichfield Churches Criminal Justice Forum Friends 2 Friends Macmillan Cancer Support Lichfield Violets in Bloom Burntwood Sub Aqua Club Midlands Free Wheelers Lichfield Army Cadet Force Tamworth Samaritans Lichfield Waterworks Trust PKD Charity Lichfield and Tamworth Cat Protection
Citylife in Lichfield magazine is distributed monthly to 18,000 businesses and homes across the city and region Contact Editorial on 07833 735048 josscitylife@gmail.com Contact Advertising on 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com or 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com Citylife In Lichfield
Lichfield NSPCC Lichfield and Tamworth Canal Restoration Free Spirit Horse Memorial 1st Longdon Girl Guides Macmillan Cancer Support Curborough Community Centre Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Guide Dogs for the Blind Lichfield Lions Lichfield Round Table
Situated in the heart of Lichfield, Ivisons is a family run business who have been creating beautiful floral designs for every occasion since 1932.
Rotary Club of Lichfield St Chads Lichfield Ladies Circle 7th Lichfield Scouts Tempest Ford Lichfield Soroptimists Lichfield Ladies Tangle Club
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Telephone: 01543 263 173 18 Bird Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6PR www.ivisonlichfieldflorist.co.uk
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Messages of thanks...
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR OF LICHFIELD
MESSAGE FROM THE SHERIFF OF LICHFIELD
The Lichfield Greenhill Bower is one of the main highlights of Lichfield’s year, the origins of which date back to the 12th century. It is one of many great Lichfield traditions and it will be a pleasure to take part in 2016 festivities. From the crowning of the Bower Queen to the amazing floats in the street procession, to the funfair and entertainments in Beacon Park, there is a massive amount for the entire family to enjoy. I hope that the people of Lichfield and our visitors have a great day and we thank them for their generous contributions to all of the nominated charities.
Lichfield Bower is a time for family, fun and friendship.
My congratulations go to the whole team behind the Bower. Without the hard work and dedication of the team of volunteers who work unseen throughout the year this event would not take place. We have much to thank them for. Andrew Smith Mayor of Lichfield
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The Lichfield Greenhill Bower is one of the highlights of the year the origins of which date back to the 12th century. One of our great traditions, it is a pleasure to take part in 2016’s festivities. From the crowning of the Bower Queen and the street carnival, to the funfair and entertainments in Beacon Park, there is much to enjoy on this special day. I hope that the people of Lichfield and our visitors have a great day and we thank them for their generous contributions to the nominated charities. My congratulations to whole team behind the Bower. Without the hard work and dedication of the team of volunteers who work unseen throughout the year this event would not take place. We have much to thank them for. Success to the Bower! Long may it continue! Michael Sheldon Sheriff of Lichfield
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF LICHFIELD DISTRICT COUNCIL I am delighted to warmly welcome you to Lichfield Greenhill Bower 2016. This annual event is such a wonderful celebration of Lichfield and our local traditions. It brings together the community and visitors who enjoy the many festivities on offer. From the street procession and the crowning of the Bower Queen, to the fairground rides and entertainment on offer at Beacon Park, it’s a day of fun for everyone involved. It is thanks to the organisers that each year the Bower continues to be one of the highlights of the events calendar, offering so much to do over the Spring Bank Holiday Monday. I hope you all take advantage of the many activities on offer and that you have a marvellous time doing so! Norma Bacon Chairman, Lichfield District Council
James Whitehouse in 2012 with Roger Black
AUGUST WILL SEE THE DASH RETURN The most unique sprint event in the UK... held in Cathedral close! First run in 1998, the Lichfield Dash is a completely unique sporting occasion. Invited athletes race the 12 noon chimes and the crowds flock to Cathedral Close to watch a race against time come alive in a spectacle of speed, strength and true Corinthian endeavour. The first ever Dash in 1998 was won by GB 400m international Paul Thompson of Birchfield Harriers. TV cameras captured the drama of the dash in 1999 where Tipton Harriers athlete Mark Anslow collapsed on the finishing line to allow GB international and Birchfield Harrier Carl Warren through to win the coveted trophy awarded to the dash winner.
But true to form, Mark returned to challenge Carl again in July 2000 for the coveted dash title and to mark the occasion of the millennium, all race athletes were wearing Chariots of Fire style outfits of the 1920’s period. The race never disappoints and went on to provide excitement and drama up to 2012 where the race ceased due to a number of factors. But in Olympic Year 2016 and with KP Events ambassador Meghan Beesley representing a real medal hope in the 400m hurdles in Rio, the Dash will be back and even better than before. See www.kpevents.net for more info!
CITY TRADITION KEPT ALIVE BY BOWER FESTIVITIES... The Court of Arraye, or View of Men and Arms, originated in the early middle age when all the able-bodied men of the town were required to present themselves before the Lord of the Manor. They had to attend with whatever armaments they possessed, and a roll call was taken followed by a military drill-practice. In the days before any regular standing army this was an important means by which the military potential of the country could be assessed, and some basic military training given to the citizens. After the assembly the rest of the day was given to “sport and pastimes” – which were the origins of the Bower festivities. The Acts requiring this assembly were repealed in the reign of James I, but Lichfield maintained the practice, and its Court of Arraye is now the only surviving continuation of this ancient event. Perhaps the city kept it on simply through a love of tradition - but more likely it was because the Court
had become so closely associated with the Bower – a rare opportunity for holiday celebrations and free food. Early records describe how, “the town-clerk from a roll calls forth the name of every householder... those who answer to their names are invited into the booth and regaled with a cold collation [cold meats and salad], and those who neglect to appear are fined one penny each.” Accompanied by music and dancing the assembly would then proceed through the streets “with their gorgeous banners” until the event arrived at the market-place “where the town-clerk thanks them for their attendance, informs them of the several charters and immunities granted to this city, …and advises them to retire peaceably to their homes, and pursue the paths of industry and virtue, that they may always be worthy of the peculiar privileges they enjoy as free-born Englishmen, and inhabitants of this loyal and respectable city.”
Miniature Fairground Model Show This is a free event where you will see over 20 models of fairground rides and trucks displayed in the Guildhall on Saturday 28th May 2016 10am - 4pm • Refreshments Available
WIN WIN WIN £250 DAYTONA VOUCHER WIN £250 TO SPEND AT DAYTONA TAMWORTH SIMPLY EMAIL YOUR CONTACT DETAILS TO COMPETITIONS@DAYTONA.CO.UK Use your voucher to book a private party at the Midland’s Premier Kart Circuit or alternatively book Arrive&Drive sessions on the new 1000M circuit. *Only one entry per person. Closing Date 31st May. Winner will be picked at random from all valid entries. Winner will be notified on 1st June. The prize is £250 worth of racing at Daytona Tamworth. There is no cash alternative.
As a veterinary hospital we provide 24 hour nursing care for your pets 365 days a year with modern facilities and in-house lab.
01543 262 464
Fosseway Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8JY BRANCHES AT: 17 New Road Armitage, WS15 4AA T: 01543 491149 151 Cannock Road, Burntwood, WS7 0BB T: 01543 682305 New Site at Carlton House, 18 Mere Green Road, Mere Green, B75 5BS T: 0121 308 5555
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE We offer a modern, friendly equine veterinary service. Thirteen vet equine team is passionate about providing a wide range of top quality care for your horse. We are able to provide MRI, digital radiography, gastroscopy, endoscopy, ultrasonography, advanced dentistry, surgery and much more.
01283 799 700
Crown Inn Farm, Rykneld Street Lichfield, WS3 8RD www.poolhousevets.co.uk
...UPDATE Lichfield BID (Business Improvement District) is a new initiative in the city which started in October 2015. A BID is where all businesses in an area, like Lichfield City, contribute into a shared pot to fund projects, improvements and initiatives they want across the city centre. BIDs are business-led and the BID in Lichfield will raise around £200,000 each year – that’s £1 million over the five year BID term to be spent entirely on city projects chosen for by city businesses. The BID have taken the lead on the planning committee for Lichfield Food Festival and is one of the main sponsors of the event this year, as well as for the Christmas Festival. We have invested in new digital radios to link businesses and other partners strategically across the city centre. Pubs and shops, as well as the Police, and CCTV control room now have new radios; enabling them to be in instant contact with each other, in the event of an incident of crime or anti-social behaviour happening on their premises. The BID is also providing funding for the Business Exclusion Scheme, run through the Townsafe initiative. Lichfield BID are also funding new City Guardians who will be patrolling the city centre during busy evenings and during key events. They will be a visible presence to reassure visitors and act as ambassadors for the city. 32
The City Guardians will be able to help people with directions, act as additional security, assist as event stewards during key events, such as Lichfield Food Festival and help to control the taxi rank in the evenings. They will also be equipped with the new digital radios to link them with the Police, CCTV control room and local businesses. We are also going to be replacing the bunting in the city centre with brand new, colourful bunting that will brighten up the area and make the city even more attractive to local residents and visitors alike. This is only the start of the BID projects, with many more to follow.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 BOWER QUEEN AND DEPUTY
It was a great honour to be crowned Lichfield Mercury’s Bower Queen for 2015. I have had many highlights throughout the year including visiting the Huddlesford Canal Site, attending an opening of a new shop in Tudor Row and attending the Bower Ball. By attending fundraising events and supporting businesses in Lichfield, it has enabled me to meet new people and create closer links with the local community. I will have fond memories of the Bower procession, as it was a fantastic experience being paraded around the City of Lichfield with the presence of so many Bower spectators who continue to support the event. I would like the take this opportunity to thank the Bower Committee for organising the events for me to attend, particularly the Bower Queen organisers who have supported me throughout the year. I look forward to welcoming the new Miss Lichfield and her ambassadors into the role and wish them every success during the year. Ellie Wheeler, Bower Queen
Being crowned Lichfield’s Deputy Bower Queen for 2015 and being a part of the procession was an amazing experience that I will never forget. It is a family tradition of mine to go to see the procession and to be a part of it made it even more special, especially to see the huge turnout of people along with my proud family and friends. I have been involved with some very special events throughout Lichfield in the past year my favourites being the bower ball, judging the prince and princess selection day and being lucky enough to support my local community. I couldn’t praise the bower committee more for their hard work throughout the years to make the Bower as amazing as it is today and I hope to continue to support the Bower for many years to come. I would also like to thank the Bower committee for giving me this opportunity and supporting me through it. Tegan Grist, Deputy Bower Queen Pictures courtesy of Lichfield Mercury
LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL....
Pictured: The stunning Lady Chapel in urgent need of funds to reverse serious water penetration - can you help?
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FUNDRAISING FOR THE FUTURE Lichfield Cathedral is the only medieval three-spired Cathedral in the UK, and home to over 1300 years of vibrant history. There is a great deal for visitors to explore, including the stunning architecture; abundant heritage and amazing treasures. There’s never been a better time to visit the Cathedral, which has seen two big projects reach completion in the past two years. In March 2015, the famous Herkenrode stained glass windows were re-installed in the Cathedral’s Lady Chapel following a £3.7m restoration, and in April 2016, the Cathedral celebrated the end of a project to re-light and re-wire the Cathedral, meaning visitors can now appreciate the beauty of the Cathedral in a whole new light! The next challenge for this treasured building is to save the Chapter House. The Cathedral is urgently trying to raise £2million to reverse serious water penetration and weathering damage to the Chapter House, the only example of an octagonal twostory Chapter House in the UK, stretched on its west-east axis. The Cathedral library has been housed in the upper room of the Chapter House since 1758, and has remained intact for over 250 years. The library houses a magnificent collection of treasures which includes fifteenth-century hand
copied manuscripts of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, one of the three surviving original copies of Christopher Saxton’s maps of Tudor England, and a fascinating manuscript of illustrations issued by and signed by Charles I. It would be a great loss if the water damage meant that the collection had to move. The upper story also houses a beautiful secondary tiled floor of c.13, one of the finest in England. The lower floor of the Chapter House is used for a long-term exhibition that focuses on the AngloSaxon history of the Cathedral. It includes the St Chad Gospels, the Lichfield Angel, and items from the Staffordshire Hoard.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP SAVE THE CHAPTER HOUSE, HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS: TEXT CHAP17 (£1/£2/£3/£4/£5/£10) to 70070 Donate to our JUSTGIVING page justgiving.com/lichfieldcathedral Send a CHEQUE made payable to Lichfield Cathedral marked for the attention of The Development Team. Please ensure your donations are clearly marked for the Chapter House Appeal.
ANYONE FOR CAKE?
Mabel’s Tea Rooms has taken on the challenge of reproducing the Bower Cake from a top secret recipe dating back to 1145! Traditionally the Court of Arraye was held at Greenhill, where a “Bower House” was erected and decorated with laurel and lilac. Here the men-at-arms mustered before the magistrates with their arms and armour and were regaled with free beef, wine and cake. At the end of the day the magistrates sent a return of the numbers to the Commission of Arraye in London. When the Court of Arraye became a more light hearted event Bower Cake was still given away to the children of Lichfield from the Bower House on Greenhill, this in time was a tradition that was no longer carried out. 36
Mabels is a traditional tearoom serving locally sourced, home made produce. It is renown for its large range of fabulous cakes and tray-bakes and was the obvious choice for bringing the Bower Cake back to the Bower. Kay from Mabels commented “We were delighted to be asked to recreate the his§toric Bower Cake. We are looking forward to researching the ingredients and developing a modern Bower Cake that can be enjoyed for many generations to come” For your slice of this historic cake head to the information tent in Beacon Park - where the first 200 children to arrive will be lucky enough to sample this cake for themselves.
WHATS 38
SUP?
KI DS
Academy UK
SUP TASTER SESSIONS AT STOWE POOL LICHFIELD & CLIFF LAKES TAMWORTH Stand up Paddle Boarding is the fastest growing water sport but as landlocked Midlanders can be difficult for us to get in on the action! Chris Kenyon founder of Central SUP based in Tamworth has now branched out from adult and professional coaching to encouraging children to take up this fantastic new sport. Along with Donna Rennals, fellow SUP instructor. They have joined forces and taken on the challenge to get children and ladies onto the water. It’s an incredible experience - a great sense of fun on the water or on local pools, lakes and rivers, improving fitness and also releasing stress and increasing concentration. The KIDS SUP Academy UK is a unique club with a structured training programme for age 8 to 15 year olds which will teach confidence, balance, environmental knowledge and water skills. There are levels of certification similar to that as swimming and other sports giving the children achievable tasks and goals which will give them the skills which they need to master this sport achieved with fun games and design tasks - all of which promote fitness and confidence. If students wish to there is also the option to have race training as Chris is also a Junior Race Academy instructor. The great thing about this sport is that the whole family can get involved and Central SUP organise family fun events throughout the year with access of an indoor swimming
pool for those colder months! If you would like to try this fantastic sport Central SUP are offering free taster sessions at Stowe Pool on 21st May, 10-4pm. There will be demonstrations and the chance for children and adults to experience SUP for themselves! Come along and bring a picnic, towel and a change of clothes!! To book your place contact: chris.kenyon@centralsup.com or Donna 07976971178 Checkout the website www.centralsup.net or our facebook page Kids SUP Academy UK
Bird Street, Lichfield WS13 6PR T: 01543 414822 E: mail@thegeorgelichfield.co.uk W: www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk
With a choice of 20 premium gins, it’s never too early for Gin o’clock at The George!
MODERN BRITISH DININg
We now offer a choice of 20 signature gin and tonics in our newly refurbished lounge bar - all are served in a large balloon glass filled with ice, topped with the recommended tonic and served with a selected garnish to marry perfectly with your chosen gin.
Darwin’s offers delicious modern British food in a relaxed setting - open every evening from 6pm, fixed price menu available Sunday - Thursday and between 6 & 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays. To see the menus and book online visit www.darwinslichfield.co.uk
SPRING/SUMMER 2016 NOW AVAILABLE AT
Michael’s Menswear Modern and traditional complete outfitters offering the latest styles at
Michael’s Menswear
SUPPLIERS OF:
12, Market Street, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 6LH (on the corner of City Arcade) Telephone 01543 262264
INTRODUCING THE FIRST LICHFIELD BOWER
SANTA FUN RUN Taking place on Sunday December 11th Lichfield Stowe Pool Start and Finish – 10.30 am This popular event takes place in many towns all around the UK and Lichfield Bower are excited to bring it to Lichfield! Run around the pedestrianised streets in the city centre dressed as Santa just for fun – all welcome! There will pre and post event entertainment to further add to the festive spirit. Entry price INCLUDES a Santa suit – which we will provide for you. VENUE: Lichfield, Stowe Pool start/finish ENTRY FEE: Adult £10.95, Children 12 or younger £7.95, £25.95 for family with one child, £29.95 for family with 2 children MOMENTOS to all finishers plus plum pudding!
I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H
w w w. k p e v e n t s . n e t
THE GIFT OF CLEAN WATER
SANDFIELDS
PUMPING STATION by David Moore, Chairman of the Lichfield Waterworks Trust
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During the mid-nineteenth century the industrial revolution was running at its peak when in 1832 a sinister and deadly disease struck the Black Country. Within the space of six weeks 9,514 people became infected and 2,311 were dead. So rapid was the death toll that the cemeteries could not cope with the dead, and the authorities had to close the cemeteries. The victims were buried in mass graves. Cholera struck again with greater virulence in 1848 with similar devastating effects. It was John Snow, a physician in Soho, London who established the connection between the quality of the source of water and cholera. With the water supply of the industrial communities of the Black Country only partially satisfied by the meagre, impure sources available from a communal pump or wells, Snow proved the need for an organised waterworks scheme. Lichfield provided the solution by turning the city into a living waterworks, and establishing the beginning of the South Staffordshire Waterworks Company. The waterworks radically shaped the city into how we now see today. Minster Pool was cleaned out and its depth increased. Stowe Pool was substantially enlarged to its current size and the museum gardens were built during the construction of the Hanch Tunnel. Four million gallons of water a day were pumped from Minster and Stowe pools to the Black
Country by a Pumping Station that was sited at Sandfields next to the Lichfield to Walsall railway. The building houses a unique 190 horse-power Cornish beam engine that was built by Jonah and George Davies of Tipton. The engine ran almost non-stop from 1873 to 1927. This Grade II* listed building and Cornish beam engine are unique. It is the only surviving engine in the whole world of its kind and condition, but it is now in a state of disrepair. The Lichfield Waterworks Trust is a registered charity that was set up to save this magnificent building and unique Cornish beam engine so that Lichfield can celebrate its gift of clean water to the Black Country.
Cornish beam engine in need of renovation
If you would like to get in touch, make a donation or join Lichfield Waterworks Trust visit: www.lichfieldwaterworkstrust.com
SERVICES Maintenance and development of homes and gardens Small repairs and enhancements to large development and landscaping projects Refurbishment projects and electrical work Service with a smile MARLIA LTD ~ MARK DANKS TELEPHONE 07943 389719 EMAIL info@marlia.org.uk
31 Bore Street, Lichfield, Staffs, WS13 6LZ Tel 01543 255020
Delighted to sponsor the Lichfield Bower
Entries excepted for our forthcoming sales Fine & Important Jewellery, Watches & Silver Sale Our Prestigious Evening Country Home & Interiors Sale Fine Wine, Whisky & Spirits Sale Stamps, Postal History, Books, Maps & Manuscripts Sale Asian Art, Ceramica & Works of Art Sale Cameras, Musical & Scientific Instruments, Mechanical Music Sale
SPECIAL VALUATION DAYS WITH OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS
at The Lichfield Auction Centre Woodend Lane, Fradley Park, Lichfield, WS13 8NF Jewellery, Silver, Gold & Watches Every Tuesday 9.30am-4.00pm Coins & Medals Every Monday 9.00am-12.00pm General Valuations Every Tuesday 9.30am-4.00pm at The Collectors Saleroom Cross Keys, Lichfield, WS13 6DN Toys, Dinky Cars, Diecast & Railwayana Every Monday 9.30am-3.30pm
Medals, Militaria & Coins Sale The Vintage Sale Toys, Dinky, Corgi, Diecast & Trains Sale Home Visits Available Specialists in House Clearance & Downsizing Solutions Probate/Insurance Valuations 01543 251081 lichfield@richardwinterton.co.uk www.richardwinterton.co.uk
THE PROCESSION ROUTE Disabled Parking Shaw Lane
R TE NS MI OOL P
B ST US AT IO N
BEACON PARK
L
RA
ED
TH CA
CITY STATION
START 11.45am
Parking Coaches Disabled Parking
Bower Day Procession Timetable 11.45am
THE PROCESSION will leave Cherry Orchard for the Guildhall via Sturgeon’s Hill, Rotten Row, Greenhill, Tamworth Street and Bore Street.
12.00 noon
MISS LICHFIELD will be crowned by the Right Worshipful, The Mayor of Lichfield, in front of The Guildhall.
PROCESSION ROUTE: Cherry Orchard, turn left into Sturgeon’s Hill, Rotten Row, Greenhill, Tamworth Street, Bore Street, left into St. John Street, left into Wade Street, right into Frog Lane, right into St. John Street, left into The Friary, right into Swan Road, left into Queen Street, Walsall Road, right into Lower Sandford Street, left into Swan Road, left into Bird Street, right into the Close, right into Dam Street, Conduit Street, left into Tamworth Street to Greenhill where the Mayor will take the salute. MORRIS DANCERS
Green Man’s Morris and Sword Club, Three Spires Morris plus guests.
LEAD BAND
The National Marching Band of the Air Cadet of RAF Cranwell
THANK YOU!
Anthony Harris & The Pat Collins Fair
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for their continuing support and generosity to the Lichfield Greenhill Bower
DID YOU KNOW THE MIDLAND’S PREMIER KART CIRCUIT IS IN TAMWORTH? 1000M CIRCUIT SODI AND DMAX KARTS PRIVATE AND PUBLIC EVENTS JUNIORS WELCOME
SAVE 25%* WITH THIS ADVERT
CALL US ON 033 033 278 70 AND ENJOY 25% OFF YOUR FIRST BOOKING AT DAYTONA TAMWORTH *Terms and Conditions: 25% Off Your First Booking – only one discount per person – Lichfield Bower voucher must be mentioned when booking and this voucher presented at arrival.