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Citylife in Lichfield October 2023

October heralds the start of Autumn, with leaves falling, temperatures gradually dropping, but the perfect time to go on long country walks before winter sets in! Our autumnal edition features our usual mix of Local News, What's On events, competitions, theatre reviews, history features and our usual Month in Pictures feature - enjoy with a warming caffe latte and a slice of pumpkin pie!

October heralds the start of Autumn, with leaves falling, temperatures gradually dropping, but the perfect time to go on long country walks before winter sets in! Our autumnal edition features our usual mix of Local News, What's On events, competitions, theatre reviews, history features and our usual Month in Pictures feature - enjoy with a warming caffe latte and a slice of pumpkin pie!

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3


Welcome to<br />

CITYLIFE<br />

Welcome to CITYLIFE <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong>, a monthly magaz<strong>in</strong>e<br />

br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories.<br />

Each month CITYLIFE <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> is delivered to<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>esses and homes <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong>, K<strong>in</strong>gs Bromley, Fradley,<br />

Alrewas, Hill Ridware, Whitt<strong>in</strong>gton, Shenstone,<br />

Hammerwich, Burntwood, Streethay, Yoxall and Longdon,<br />

completely free of charge; br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g you the best that the<br />

city has to offer.<br />

Each issue features heritage stories explor<strong>in</strong>g the rich<br />

history of our area, plus competitions, <strong>in</strong>terviews and the<br />

latest <strong>in</strong> fashion and style.<br />

Got a story or charity event you want to share with our<br />

readership? Th<strong>in</strong>k you’ve snapped an image that captures<br />

the spirit of the city? We want to hear from you!<br />

Our bus<strong>in</strong>ess is br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g you <strong>Lichfield</strong>’s city life.<br />

CITYLIFE Contacts<br />

Editor - Kristen Lackajis 07885 380632<br />

kristencitylife@gmail.com<br />

Features - Jono Oates 07785 757201 jonocitylife@gmail.com<br />

Advertis<strong>in</strong>g -<br />

Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com<br />

Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com<br />

Mike James 07900 982456 mikejamescitylife@gmail.com<br />

Design - Helen Smith 07967 154187 helencitylife@gmail.com<br />

Distribution - Rebecca Hill 07970 513144<br />

<strong>Citylife</strong> In <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd<br />

PO Box 7126 LICHFIELD WS14 4JS<br />

CITYLIFE <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> and CITYLIFE <strong>in</strong> Rugeley and Cannock Chase<br />

magaz<strong>in</strong>es are not connected to any other publication or publisher, and<br />

are wholly owned by CITYLIFE <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd.<br />

Inside...<br />

6 Local News<br />

What’s happen<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> and around <strong>Lichfield</strong>.<br />

16 Transform<strong>in</strong>g the Trent Valley<br />

Louise Morris gives an update on the summer<br />

events.<br />

24 Tastes of the Season<br />

Simon Smith provides a game recipe.<br />

26 <strong>Lichfield</strong>'s Lost Pubs<br />

We go back <strong>in</strong> time with Jono Oates.<br />

32 Month <strong>in</strong> Pics<br />

Can you spot yourself?<br />

38 What's On<br />

Your guide to upcom<strong>in</strong>g events.<br />

..................................<br />

Congratulations to K Gordon who is the lucky w<strong>in</strong>ner<br />

of a W<strong>in</strong>e Tast<strong>in</strong>g for 6 with Charcuterie Platter,<br />

courtesy of V<strong>in</strong>-X <strong>in</strong> Barton under Needwood!<br />

Well done!<br />

<strong>Citylife</strong> In <strong>Lichfield</strong><br />

@citylifelichfield<br />

@lichfieldcity<br />

www.citylife<strong>in</strong>lichfieldltd.co.uk<br />

<strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd does not endorse any bus<strong>in</strong>ess or organisation<br />

appear<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> these pages, and the publication of any advertisement,<br />

editorial, event list<strong>in</strong>g or advertis<strong>in</strong>g editorial does not constitute an<br />

endorsement by <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd.<br />

Your Local<br />

Community Magaz<strong>in</strong>e


5


LOCAL NEWS<br />

Longdon Village<br />

Market<br />

Just over 12 months ago, local lady Lisa Blades<br />

set up a m<strong>in</strong>i market <strong>in</strong> Longdon Village Hall<br />

after a visit to a similar event <strong>in</strong> Great<br />

Haywood. Notic<strong>in</strong>g how busy the market was,<br />

and how it brought the community together,<br />

Lisa decided to give it a go <strong>in</strong> her home village<br />

of Longdon, which has no village shop, no post<br />

office and even no bus service!<br />

Today, just one year later, and the market is<br />

bustl<strong>in</strong>g every Tuesday from 2.30pm-4pm with<br />

10-12 stalls offer<strong>in</strong>g everyth<strong>in</strong>g from handmade<br />

cards, local honey products and children’s<br />

books to handmade dog treats, cakes and bakes,<br />

and beauty items. There is even a pop-up Post<br />

Office service to be run from the hall every<br />

Tuesday afternoon from 3pm-4pm, and a local<br />

community group decided to run a cafe, book<br />

and jigsaw exchange alongside the Post Office<br />

service.<br />

If anyone wishes to get <strong>in</strong>volved and have a<br />

table at the market, please contact Lisa Blades<br />

on 07776198444 for further <strong>in</strong>formation.<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

New Season for<br />

Camera Club<br />

One of the highlights of the <strong>Lichfield</strong> Camera<br />

Club’s year will be on 11th <strong>October</strong> when Jack<br />

Perks will be encourag<strong>in</strong>g wildlife<br />

photographers to get up close and personal<br />

with his lecture advis<strong>in</strong>g us to “put away that<br />

long telephoto lens!” Jack has built a reputation<br />

as an amaz<strong>in</strong>gly talented wildlife photographer<br />

hav<strong>in</strong>g worked on several BBC programmes<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Spr<strong>in</strong>gwatch, Countryfile and The One<br />

Show. Jack will be shar<strong>in</strong>g his images and<br />

techniques which may <strong>in</strong>spire you.<br />

The meet<strong>in</strong>g will appeal to anyone <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong><br />

wildlife as well as keen photographers and will<br />

take place <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Methodist Centre,<br />

Backcester Lane, start<strong>in</strong>g at 7:45pm. Guests can<br />

attend any meet<strong>in</strong>g for just £5 and the club<br />

offers a friendly welcome to photographers of<br />

all abilities.<br />

For a full programme and details of membership<br />

visit lichfieldcameraclub.org.<br />

6<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

Stephen Sutton<br />

Award Relaunched<br />

Burntwood Town Council has relaunched its<br />

Student Award celebrat<strong>in</strong>g the life and<br />

achievements of Stephen Sutton MBE and giv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a practical, help<strong>in</strong>g hand to talented young<br />

people liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Burntwood.<br />

The Student Award is available for young people<br />

aged 11 – 19 to apply for, to encourage them to<br />

develop their talents and go on to even greater<br />

achievements.<br />

Two awards of £1,000 each are available and the<br />

money can be used for a variety of projects<br />

<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g purchas<strong>in</strong>g specialist equipment, extra<br />

tuition or coach<strong>in</strong>g, competition fees and travel.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation and to download an<br />

application form, visit Burntwood Town<br />

Council’s website at www.burntwood-tc.gov.uk.<br />

Entries close on 22nd <strong>October</strong>.<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

Fresh Chapter for<br />

Dyslexia School<br />

Maple Hayes Dyslexia School <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> sees a<br />

new chapter this term as David Lowe starts his<br />

tenure as Headteacher.<br />

The appo<strong>in</strong>tment marks a significant po<strong>in</strong>t <strong>in</strong><br />

the school's history, as this will be the first time<br />

someone from outside the Brown family, who<br />

set up the school <strong>in</strong> the 1980s, will be tak<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

the role.<br />

Dr Neville Brown, Pr<strong>in</strong>cipal and founder of the<br />

school, will be jo<strong>in</strong>ed by his son Dr Daryl<br />

Brown who is stepp<strong>in</strong>g up from his role as<br />

Headteacher to become Co-Pr<strong>in</strong>cipal and part<br />

of the governance of the school.<br />

Meanwhile, Mr Lowe will be br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g his unique<br />

background and passion for special education<br />

to lead the school, which is world-renowned<br />

for its unique methodology <strong>in</strong> teach<strong>in</strong>g pupils<br />

with dyslexia for the past 40 years.<br />

Mr Lowe emphasised the importance of<br />

foster<strong>in</strong>g confidence among students and<br />

creat<strong>in</strong>g an environment where school is not<br />

perceived as the enemy. This fits perfectly with<br />

the supportive family atmosphere of Maple<br />

Hayes.<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

Council’s Foster<br />

Family Campaign<br />

People <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> becom<strong>in</strong>g a foster carer<br />

are be<strong>in</strong>g urged to get <strong>in</strong> touch <strong>in</strong> a new<br />

campaign be<strong>in</strong>g run by Staffordshire County<br />

Council.<br />

‘Give a child a childhood’ is the latest campaign<br />

that hopes to attract the next generation of<br />

foster families.<br />

Every year, tens of thousands of children across<br />

the UK need someone to provide foster care<br />

and <strong>in</strong> Staffordshire alone, 60 more foster<br />

families need to be found this year.<br />

Now with children back at school, and older<br />

teenagers off to university or college, those<br />

families with a spare room are be<strong>in</strong>g urged to<br />

consider foster<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Carolyn Gitt<strong>in</strong>gs and Kev<strong>in</strong> Wilcox from<br />

Burntwood (pictured) have been foster<strong>in</strong>g for<br />

three years.<br />

Carolyn said: “It’s really made a difference to<br />

our lives and the children we look after. It’s also<br />

given us a new sense of purpose too and we’d<br />

recommend it to others.”<br />

Interested <strong>in</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g out more? Visit<br />

www.fosterforstaffordshire.co.uk or call 0800<br />

169 2061.


Advertis<strong>in</strong>g Feature<br />

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Have you got cash sitt<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the Bank or Build<strong>in</strong>g Society earn<strong>in</strong>g you very little <strong>in</strong>terest?<br />

Are you concerned about <strong>in</strong>flation erod<strong>in</strong>g the value of your sav<strong>in</strong>gs?<br />

What do you know about your pensions and your pension options?<br />

Do you know when you may be able to retire?<br />

As an experienced local F<strong>in</strong>ancial Adviser I work with clients at all stages of their life to help them achieve their<br />

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F<strong>in</strong>ancial Advice will cost you money, but I aim to show you the benefits and value of good quality professional<br />

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I hope to hear from you soon.<br />

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10/02/<strong>2023</strong><br />

7


LOCAL NEWS<br />

Barclays Bank at<br />

Council House<br />

Barclays Bank customers <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> District<br />

can now access face-to-face services at its<br />

community bank<strong>in</strong>g facility, Barclays Local, at<br />

District Council House.<br />

On Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bus<strong>in</strong>ess<br />

Support Hub <strong>in</strong> Frog Lane, advisors are offer<strong>in</strong>g<br />

f<strong>in</strong>ancial reviews and balance requests, can open<br />

sav<strong>in</strong>gs accounts, and support with digital<br />

bank<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Cash deposits and withdrawals need to be<br />

completed at the Post Office as the community<br />

facility is cashless, but staff are available to<br />

provide advice and support.<br />

The new <strong>Lichfield</strong> facility, open on Tuesdays and<br />

Thursdays from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1pm to<br />

4pm, is part of Barclays’ roll out of ‘the largest<br />

network of community bank<strong>in</strong>g sites <strong>in</strong> the UK’.<br />

Some 270 are already open support<strong>in</strong>g<br />

customers with ‘a more flexible and susta<strong>in</strong>able<br />

model’.<br />

Barclays’ customers are welcome to drop <strong>in</strong> for<br />

a chat dur<strong>in</strong>g open<strong>in</strong>g hours or call 0345 734<br />

5345 to book an appo<strong>in</strong>tment.<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

Tamworth By-Election<br />

The by-election for the parliamentary<br />

constituency of Tamworth will take place on<br />

Thursday 19th <strong>October</strong> <strong>2023</strong>, follow<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

resignation of Christopher P<strong>in</strong>cher as a<br />

Member of Parliament on Thursday 7th<br />

September.<br />

Residents liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the Tamworth constituency,<br />

who are registered to vote, will start to receive<br />

their poll cards from 23 September. This<br />

<strong>in</strong>cludes a number of <strong>Lichfield</strong> district residents<br />

<strong>in</strong> Bourne Vale <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g H<strong>in</strong>ts, Stonnall and<br />

Whitt<strong>in</strong>gton; Mease Valley, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Clifton<br />

Campville, Ed<strong>in</strong>gale and Harlaston; Wall,<br />

Stonnall, Little Aston, Fazeley; Coton, Hopwas,<br />

Elford and Wigg<strong>in</strong>gton.<br />

The poll cards <strong>in</strong>clude <strong>in</strong>formation on how to<br />

arrange a postal or proxy vote for those who<br />

cannot make it to their poll<strong>in</strong>g station.<br />

Follow<strong>in</strong>g new legislation, all residents vot<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong><br />

person must remember to br<strong>in</strong>g a form of<br />

photo ID with them.<br />

The full list of candidates is available at<br />

www.tamworth.gov.uk/elections-<strong>2023</strong>, along<br />

with more <strong>in</strong>formation about the by-election.<br />

.......................................................................................<br />

Family Notices<br />

Readers are now able to place a notice<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> magaz<strong>in</strong>e to let<br />

others know of an important event,<br />

occasion or celebration that is tak<strong>in</strong>g<br />

place. If you would like to place details<br />

of any births, deaths, marriages or<br />

other occasions, please contact<br />

Rebecca Hill at<br />

rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com or on<br />

telephone 07970 513144.<br />

Notices will consist of a maximum 50<br />

words, plus an image, at a cost of £24<br />

(<strong>in</strong>clusive of VAT).<br />

8


9


More People, More Active, More Often!<br />

By Doug Pullen, Leader of <strong>Lichfield</strong> District Council<br />

As autumn nears and the nights draw <strong>in</strong>, I<br />

always f<strong>in</strong>d it more difficult to stay<br />

motivated on my fitness goals. We know<br />

stay<strong>in</strong>g active is really important - it’s good for<br />

both our physical and mental health, as well as<br />

for pure enjoyment! District Councils have a<br />

major role to play <strong>in</strong> the health of our residents<br />

- and it’s why we are <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g millions of<br />

pounds not only <strong>in</strong> a leisure centre, but <strong>in</strong><br />

convert<strong>in</strong>g a disused railway <strong>in</strong>to a Greenway, improv<strong>in</strong>g our parks<br />

for activities such as the brilliant (and free to attend!) ParkRun, free<br />

leisure activities and improv<strong>in</strong>g walk<strong>in</strong>g routes <strong>in</strong> new<br />

developments.<br />

And this just isn’t so athletes are well-catered for… this is about<br />

gett<strong>in</strong>g more people, more active, more often, so that we can provide<br />

opportunities for people to improve their quality of life. Speak<strong>in</strong>g to one<br />

of our staff the other day, I learned that we were able to assist someone<br />

back <strong>in</strong>to work after a serious bout of depression. Through a<br />

collaborative approach that <strong>in</strong>volved work<strong>in</strong>g closely with the <strong>in</strong>dividual<br />

and their GP, we were able to extend a help<strong>in</strong>g hand. We provided swim<br />

sessions and various other activities tailored to their needs, and the<br />

results were remarkable. This <strong>in</strong>dividual not only experienced<br />

improvements <strong>in</strong> their mental health but also rega<strong>in</strong>ed the confidence and<br />

resilience needed to return to work. It's a testament to the positive<br />

impact that our community-focused <strong>in</strong>itiatives can have on <strong>in</strong>dividual lives.<br />

Our district is blessed with an abundance of green spaces (ok, slightly<br />

orangey-brown <strong>in</strong> autumn, but that’s beside the po<strong>in</strong>t!). Our council takes<br />

great pride <strong>in</strong> ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g these parks as more than just visually pleas<strong>in</strong>g<br />

landscapes. These havens are designed to encourage physical activity,<br />

serv<strong>in</strong>g as <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g sett<strong>in</strong>gs for leisurely walks, brisk runs, or moments of<br />

tranquil contemplation.<br />

For those seek<strong>in</strong>g structured fitness options, <strong>Lichfield</strong> District is<br />

fortunate to host not one, but two exceptional leisure centres. These<br />

establishments offer a comprehensive range of fitness facilities, from<br />

<strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g swimm<strong>in</strong>g pools to <strong>in</strong>vigorat<strong>in</strong>g exercise classes and wellequipped<br />

gyms. Our commitment to accessibility ensures that <strong>in</strong>dividuals<br />

of all ages and fitness levels can engage <strong>in</strong> fulfill<strong>in</strong>g physical activities.<br />

To further promote <strong>in</strong>clusivity, we offer free activity sessions. These<br />

sessions provide an excellent opportunity to explore new activities, forge<br />

connections with fellow residents, and potentially discover a new passion<br />

for physical pursuits. Our aim is to make exercise accessible to everyone<br />

<strong>in</strong> our diverse community.<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> District Council is steadfastly committed to champion<strong>in</strong>g<br />

physical activity and community well-be<strong>in</strong>g. By offer<strong>in</strong>g vital <strong>in</strong>frastructure,<br />

free sessions, and ongo<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>vestments, we will facilitate the pursuit of<br />

healthier, more fulfill<strong>in</strong>g lives for all residents. I wholeheartedly encourage<br />

you to seize these opportunities, take a few more steps this autumn and<br />

jo<strong>in</strong> us on this journey towards a healthier <strong>Lichfield</strong> District.<br />

Autum is here, the leaves are fall<strong>in</strong>g, and the<br />

nights are draw<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>. Children are back at<br />

school and before we know it, the festive season<br />

will be here. After our busy schedule of events<br />

over the summer, autumn is always a good time<br />

for us at Burntwood Town Council to reflect on<br />

what went well, and what we will be focus<strong>in</strong>g on<br />

over the com<strong>in</strong>g months.<br />

I’ve written previously about a survey we<br />

undertook, ask<strong>in</strong>g residents where they felt we<br />

should direct our grant money for local charity and community groups.<br />

They identified two priority areas, youth services for 11–18-year-olds, and<br />

adult mental health and wellbe<strong>in</strong>g support. As a result, we have now<br />

launched a commission<strong>in</strong>g programme, <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g £45,000 over three years<br />

<strong>in</strong> three projects that will deliver services relat<strong>in</strong>g to these two groups.<br />

Br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g services and support to Burntwood is someth<strong>in</strong>g we know is<br />

important to residents, and we are look<strong>in</strong>g forward to award<strong>in</strong>g these<br />

grants to successful projects very soon.<br />

As well as award<strong>in</strong>g grants to local charities and community groups, we<br />

are also <strong>in</strong>credibly proud to be relaunch<strong>in</strong>g the Burntwood Town Council<br />

Student Award <strong>in</strong> memory of Stephen Sutton MBE. The young talent we<br />

have <strong>in</strong> our town is someth<strong>in</strong>g to be proud of, from budd<strong>in</strong>g footballers to<br />

talented musicians, and we want to be able to help support young people<br />

achieve their goals. Two awards of £1,000 are available for 11-19 years olds,<br />

10<br />

Invest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Community<br />

By Darren Ennis, Leader of Burntwood Town Council<br />

who live <strong>in</strong> Burntwood, to help with the cost of th<strong>in</strong>gs like specialist<br />

equipment, competition fees, extra tuition or coach<strong>in</strong>g. Applications close<br />

on Sunday 22nd <strong>October</strong>, and the application form is available to download<br />

on our website.<br />

As well as <strong>in</strong>vest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> our community, we cont<strong>in</strong>ue to focus on runn<strong>in</strong>g<br />

events throughout the year. Our monthly Producer’s Markets have been a<br />

huge success, runn<strong>in</strong>g from April through to <strong>October</strong>. The market not only<br />

br<strong>in</strong>gs great products to Burntwood and supports the local shops at<br />

Sankey’s Corner, but it br<strong>in</strong>gs people together. I absolutely love attend<strong>in</strong>g<br />

them and although I never <strong>in</strong>tend to be there for hours, there’s always so<br />

many amaz<strong>in</strong>g people to meet and chat with that it becomes hard to leave.<br />

Burntwood is a fantastic community and we have some amaz<strong>in</strong>g local<br />

charities and community groups work<strong>in</strong>g hard to support our town. For<br />

them be able to do all the brilliant th<strong>in</strong>gs they do, they need volunteers, so<br />

we have been work<strong>in</strong>g with Support Staffordshire to br<strong>in</strong>g a Volunteer Fair<br />

to Burntwood for the first time. The Fair will be held on Tuesday 17th<br />

<strong>October</strong>, 1pm-3:30pm at Burntwood Leisure Centre. Volunteer<strong>in</strong>g is a great<br />

way to meet new people, share your skills, develop some news ones and<br />

support our town, and this event will be a great opportunity for residents<br />

to come along and f<strong>in</strong>d out about how they can get <strong>in</strong>volved.<br />

Further <strong>in</strong>formation on all of our events and opportunities can be found<br />

by follow<strong>in</strong>g Burntwood Town Council on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter,<br />

or on our website at www.burntwood-tc.gov.uk


11


Your Garden <strong>in</strong> <strong>October</strong><br />

By Byron Lewis<br />

l<br />

l<br />

e<br />

o<br />

o<br />

’s<br />

n<br />

),<br />

r<br />

e<br />

e<br />

p<br />

s<br />

e<br />

ll<br />

We f<strong>in</strong>ally got a taste of summer earlier <strong>in</strong> September with a few<br />

weeks of lovely warm weather, replaced by more normal ra<strong>in</strong> and<br />

cooler days – autumn has def<strong>in</strong>itely arrived! Quite a few of our<br />

trees and shrubs are already start<strong>in</strong>g to put on an autumn show<br />

with leaves chang<strong>in</strong>g from green to bright oranges, reds & bronze<br />

hues. Look out for plants like Sp<strong>in</strong>dle Bush (Euonymus), Acers,<br />

Dogwood (Cornus) and many more. While some of these may<br />

not look stunn<strong>in</strong>g dur<strong>in</strong>g the summer, they provide the <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>October</strong> & November.<br />

Spr<strong>in</strong>g bulbs are now ready for plant<strong>in</strong>g. The most popular bulb is<br />

Narcissus ‘Tete-a-tete’ – the m<strong>in</strong>iature Daffodil. Each stem<br />

produces 4-5 flowers, and planted en-masse <strong>in</strong> a w<strong>in</strong>dow box<br />

these will look superb <strong>in</strong> February & March. Even if you’re not yet<br />

ready to plant bulbs, buy now while the selection is good. Tulips<br />

can be planted well <strong>in</strong>to November – these come <strong>in</strong> a huge range<br />

of colours. Be sure to check the eventual heights on Tulips as<br />

some can get 2ft tall and you will need to provide support to the<br />

stems <strong>in</strong> case of strong spr<strong>in</strong>g w<strong>in</strong>ds.<br />

If your hang<strong>in</strong>g baskets are now look<strong>in</strong>g tired (m<strong>in</strong>e were weeks<br />

ago!), its time to empty out & replant. A great selection of plants<br />

can be used to tide you over the next 6-7 months or so. W<strong>in</strong>ter<br />

hardy ‘m<strong>in</strong>i-shrubs’ (<strong>in</strong> small pots) can provide a low ma<strong>in</strong>tenance<br />

show – look out for plants like Pieris, Choisya, Skimmia, Heuchera<br />

& lots more. Available as very young plants <strong>in</strong> many garden<br />

centres, you can then plant these out <strong>in</strong>to the garden next spr<strong>in</strong>g<br />

where they will grow on <strong>in</strong>to full sized shrubs.<br />

December is creep<strong>in</strong>g up on us all too quickly, and we have<br />

started construction of our Christmas Shop. Due to open <strong>in</strong> early<br />

November we’ll have a new range of decorations, lights and lots<br />

more, so keep an eye on our social media pages for the latest<br />

updates. Next month we'll take a look at Fruit Trees and Hedg<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Plants - these will be ready for plant<strong>in</strong>g sooner than you th<strong>in</strong>k!!<br />

Byron Lewis runs <strong>Lichfield</strong> Garden Centre at<br />

Curborough Countryside Centre, <strong>Lichfield</strong>. 01543<br />

254306. Visit www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk or f<strong>in</strong>d<br />

us on Facebook & Twitter.<br />

12


13


14


15


Celebration of the<br />

Trent Valley<br />

By Louise Morris<br />

To celebrate near<strong>in</strong>g the end of the five year Transform<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

Trent Valley (TTTV) scheme, September saw us gather<br />

together people from across the region to highlight our<br />

successes.<br />

To thank the scheme partners, our funders and volunteers, who have<br />

all contributed to the success of TTTV we held a celebration even<strong>in</strong>g at<br />

the National Memorial Arboretum on Wednesday 6th September.<br />

Speeches by Garry Jones, Chief Executive of Support Staffordshire, and<br />

Glyn Morgan, National Lottery Heritage Fund Committee Member for<br />

England Midlands and East, emphasised that the passion and commitment<br />

of the team, amaz<strong>in</strong>g volunteers and project partners have transformed<br />

the Trent Valley. Projects completed s<strong>in</strong>ce 2018 have focused on liv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

floodpla<strong>in</strong>s, distribut<strong>in</strong>g community grants, transform<strong>in</strong>g lives, creat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

new sections of the Trent Valley Way, shar<strong>in</strong>g Wildchild activities with<br />

local children and add<strong>in</strong>g to the enjoyment of the landscape for all to<br />

experience. Julian Woolford, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Wildlife<br />

Trust, talked about the significance of the TTTV scheme to the area, the<br />

positive impact on people and wildlife and the cont<strong>in</strong>uation of work<strong>in</strong>g<br />

together to create a legacy. Louise Morris, Landscape Partnership<br />

Manager, <strong>in</strong>troduced the premiere of a stunn<strong>in</strong>g new film showcas<strong>in</strong>g all<br />

our accomplishments for the people and nature of the Trent Valley.<br />

You can now enjoy the celebration film on our website:<br />

www.thetrentvalley.org.uk/successes to follow our journey as we discuss<br />

the successes, challenges, and highlights of this wonderful scheme.<br />

As summer <strong>2023</strong> closed, we organised a community day to say thank<br />

you and to display the best of the Trent Valley. What a fun day! Based <strong>in</strong><br />

Newton Road Park, Burton, on Saturday 9th September, visitors<br />

delighted <strong>in</strong> tall tales from The Old Man of the Woods and were<br />

serenaded by the Uttoxeter brass band. With free entry and free<br />

activities rang<strong>in</strong>g from wood carv<strong>in</strong>g demonstrations, face pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

Wildchild adventures, pebble pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g and wildlife record<strong>in</strong>g, everyone<br />

who attended had a brilliant time. Food was supplied by local vendors.<br />

The sun shone (it turned out to be the hottest day of the year) and<br />

people kept cool sitt<strong>in</strong>g by the river, learn<strong>in</strong>g how to fish from the<br />

riverbank and how to paddle a Canadian canoe. Even the brass band<br />

tried the canoe sessions! Thank you to our stall holders for their<br />

support and for all who took part to provide an excellent celebration<br />

for the community.<br />

*Photos by Sue Freeman<br />

Got a story or charity<br />

event you want to share<br />

with our readership? Th<strong>in</strong>k<br />

you’ve snapped an image<br />

that captures the spirit of<br />

the region? We want to<br />

hear from you!<br />

Contact <strong>Citylife</strong> at<br />

kristencitylife@gmail.com<br />

16


17


Five M<strong>in</strong>utes<br />

With…<br />

Artful Dodger<br />

Orig<strong>in</strong>al 80s <strong>Lichfield</strong> band Artful<br />

Dodger were active from 1982 to 1986<br />

with a one-off reunion <strong>in</strong> 1998. We<br />

catch up with them as they prepare to<br />

return to play <strong>in</strong> the City they love this<br />

December.<br />

• To beg<strong>in</strong> with, could you tell us a<br />

little bit about yourselves. Are you<br />

local?<br />

A locally based bunch of like-m<strong>in</strong>ded<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividuals, David is from and still<br />

resides <strong>in</strong> Burntwood; N<strong>in</strong>z, Paul, and<br />

Tim are all from <strong>Lichfield</strong> and apart from Paul (who lives <strong>in</strong> St Albans) still<br />

lives <strong>in</strong> the area.<br />

• Can you tell us, <strong>in</strong> your own words, what it is you do?<br />

We are collectively a gang of musicians who create varied enterta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

pieces of music that are written and performed for ourselves and our<br />

audience to enjoy. While we are all work <strong>in</strong> the creative, communications<br />

and customer services <strong>in</strong>dustries <strong>in</strong> our professional lives – as musicians<br />

we do what we do, create, and deliver enterta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g gigs.<br />

Artful Dodger is a long-awaited and much anticipated reunion of the<br />

band we were all <strong>in</strong> the early 1980s.<br />

• How important do you feel that music as an art form is to society?<br />

Music is a massive part of many people's lives. We enjoy music <strong>in</strong> so<br />

many ways, from listen<strong>in</strong>g to the various digital channels, go<strong>in</strong>g to live gigs<br />

and festivals, mak<strong>in</strong>g our own. I know we would be lost without it. Music<br />

resonates with every emotion and mood: laugh or cry or both, jump<br />

around, wiggle or nod your head, mosh or waltz; music is there to<br />

<strong>in</strong>fluence, support and enterta<strong>in</strong>. It enables comradery, <strong>in</strong>dividual<br />

expression, and jo<strong>in</strong>t exploration. A way of shar<strong>in</strong>g your feel<strong>in</strong>gs,<br />

observations, emotions, and messages. Allow<strong>in</strong>g and free expression and<br />

creativity. It calms and excites and is good for your wellbe<strong>in</strong>g. that is all<br />

important wouldn’t you say!<br />

• And f<strong>in</strong>ally, <strong>Lichfield</strong> holds a special place <strong>in</strong> the hearts of many.<br />

What does the City mean to you?<br />

We've all got great memories of <strong>Lichfield</strong>, especially <strong>in</strong> the 80s when it<br />

was the backdrop to our formative years. <strong>Lichfield</strong> had a fantastic music<br />

scene then, with gigs happen<strong>in</strong>g often; the <strong>Lichfield</strong> Arts Centre was a<br />

great venue, not just for live performances by bands, and hosted some<br />

famous bands <strong>in</strong> its time, but also other creative arts and when there<br />

wasn't a gig the bands all socialised <strong>in</strong> pubs to organise the next gig, get<br />

the lights and PA sorted, and discuss mutually agreeable topics. The pub<br />

shut early <strong>in</strong> those days, so there were lots of parties! Beaver was a well<br />

know <strong>in</strong>dividual <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> and remembered fondly by all that new him,<br />

we would have liked to be play<strong>in</strong>g with him now. Many of the<br />

relationships with people and the arts are still strong; Brian Petty is<br />

fondly remembered for all he did to establish and grow that local<br />

music/arts scene, and <strong>Lichfield</strong> still has a few live venues to stage<br />

enterta<strong>in</strong>ment. Artful Dodgers' history is deeply rooted <strong>in</strong> the City and<br />

be<strong>in</strong>g on stage aga<strong>in</strong> after 40 years will be another historic night <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong>!<br />

Artful Dodger will be perform<strong>in</strong>g alongside bands Virgil<br />

Spl<strong>in</strong>t and Victorian Parents for a <strong>Lichfield</strong> Arts’ gig to<br />

remember! F<strong>in</strong>d out more at www.lichfieldarts.org.uk.<br />

• Can you describe your musical style for us? Has this changed or<br />

evolved at all over time?<br />

Artful Dodger's sound was rooted <strong>in</strong> rock, evolv<strong>in</strong>g to embrace postpunk,<br />

add<strong>in</strong>g some funk with danceable grooves, catchy choruses and<br />

hummable <strong>in</strong>strumental sections. Also known as "Dodger Music" as it<br />

cannot be described as a particular style or sound. It hasn't changed<br />

much over time; others have crossed the l<strong>in</strong>es and created similar styles<br />

that have been and gone out of fashion with the masses, but Dodger<br />

music still enterta<strong>in</strong>s a cross-section of listeners and gig-goers of their<br />

own preferred types.<br />

• Which artists <strong>in</strong>spire and <strong>in</strong>fluence you the most, grow<strong>in</strong>g up and<br />

now?<br />

Ask any member of Artful Dodger and you will have a different answer<br />

off each, so as an overview. Early <strong>in</strong>fluences <strong>in</strong>cluded bands like the<br />

Beatles, Genesis, AC/DC, P<strong>in</strong>k Floyd, Television and Talk<strong>in</strong>g Heads,<br />

Squeeze, Red Hot Chillies, Crusaders, Dire Straits, Tom Waits, and so on<br />

and so on... As a band of <strong>in</strong>dividuals, who like all the styles throughout the<br />

ages, we are all <strong>in</strong>fluenced by the slightly different and thoughtful<br />

elements <strong>in</strong> music along with the Rhythm of the songs, musical pieces.<br />

Overall, we share <strong>in</strong>fluenced ideas.<br />

• What motivates you to create your music?<br />

Good question! Watch<strong>in</strong>g how our music and lyrics affect the audience<br />

still fasc<strong>in</strong>ates us. The jo<strong>in</strong>t creative process and the result of that<br />

understand<strong>in</strong>g and the trust <strong>in</strong> each other. The comradery and joy of<br />

listen<strong>in</strong>g to what has been created and know<strong>in</strong>g that the rest of the band<br />

has your back.<br />

Members of Artful Dodger (photo by Chris Shillam).<br />

18


19


Here at Just Granite Ltd, we pride ourselves on be<strong>in</strong>g the experts for any worktop needs you may have.<br />

Be it a beautiful bespoke and unique kitchen worktop, a bar, bathroom or even a barbecue area, we have<br />

an extensive <strong>in</strong>-house range ready to be chosen by you! We stock a varied range, <strong>in</strong> a variety of materials,<br />

such as our own competitively priced quartz, granite, marble and porcela<strong>in</strong>, as well as all the top brands<br />

from around the world.<br />

There really is no reason to go anywhere else!<br />

W<strong>in</strong> a Granite Chopp<strong>in</strong>g Board<br />

If you require our services please do not hesitate<br />

to call us on 01785 711096 or email your quote<br />

request to stef@justgranite.ltd.uk<br />

With the largest variety of natural stones <strong>in</strong> the Midlands, the<br />

solid slabs are kept on-site and are available for a virtual view<strong>in</strong>g<br />

from 9am-5pm on Monday to Friday. Located at The Stone<br />

Works, Pillaton Hall Farm, Penkridge, ST19 5RZ.<br />

We’ve got a bespoke Chopp<strong>in</strong>g Board (<strong>in</strong> the<br />

colour of your choice) to give away! To be <strong>in</strong><br />

with a chance of w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g this magnificent prize,<br />

simply answer the follow<strong>in</strong>g question correctly:<br />

Where does the supply<br />

of granite come from?<br />

a) Spa<strong>in</strong><br />

b) Italy<br />

c) Germany<br />

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Just<br />

Granite Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your<br />

entry to <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd, PO Box 7126, <strong>Lichfield</strong> WS14 4JS by<br />

the clos<strong>in</strong>g date of 18th December <strong>2023</strong> One entry per household.<br />

Multiple entries will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note<br />

you must be 18 or over to enter. All entrants’ <strong>in</strong>formation is<br />

processed <strong>in</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our<br />

Privacy Policy (available at citylife<strong>in</strong>lichfieldltd.co.uk).<br />

Full t&cs on page 50.<br />

20


21


You’re <strong>in</strong>vited as TV cameras film at <strong>Lichfield</strong> auctions<br />

By Alex Keller, Richard W<strong>in</strong>terton Auctioneers<br />

The BBC’s Antiques<br />

Road Trip comes to The<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> Auction Centre<br />

for the first time on<br />

Monday, <strong>October</strong> 9, and a<br />

few weeks later the family<br />

firm welcomes back<br />

Barga<strong>in</strong> Hunt on Tuesday,<br />

<strong>October</strong> 31.<br />

Both shows are film<strong>in</strong>g<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g the Antiques &<br />

Home Sales tak<strong>in</strong>g place<br />

on those days and people<br />

are <strong>in</strong>vited to come along<br />

and watch the auction<br />

action.<br />

You don’t need to book,<br />

just turn up at the Wood<br />

End Lane saleroom at<br />

Fradley Park <strong>in</strong> good time<br />

– the auction centre opens<br />

at 9am and each sale starts<br />

at 9.30am.<br />

Auctioneer Richard W<strong>in</strong>terton<br />

is look<strong>in</strong>g forward to welcom<strong>in</strong>g<br />

two hit BBC shows to his<br />

saleroom this month.<br />

Auctioneer Richard W<strong>in</strong>terton will be yield<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

gavel on both days and is <strong>in</strong>vit<strong>in</strong>g people to his<br />

saleroom.<br />

“We’re look<strong>in</strong>g forward to host<strong>in</strong>g the Antiques<br />

Road Trip team for the first time and are delighted to<br />

be welcom<strong>in</strong>g back our friends at Barga<strong>in</strong> Hunt,” he<br />

said.<br />

“Barga<strong>in</strong> Hunt was last with us at Fradley <strong>in</strong><br />

February when we filmed the popular Coronation<br />

Special which aired <strong>in</strong> May.<br />

“For this upcom<strong>in</strong>g visit, I’m happy to say that once<br />

aga<strong>in</strong> Christmas will be com<strong>in</strong>g early to <strong>Lichfield</strong> on<br />

<strong>October</strong> 31.<br />

“On that date we will be film<strong>in</strong>g the Barga<strong>in</strong> Hunt<br />

Christmas Specials at Fradley so do feel free to br<strong>in</strong>g<br />

along some Christmassy attire or festive accessories<br />

to help make the episode a real Christmas cracker.”<br />

Richard W<strong>in</strong>terton Auctioneers’ weekly Antiques &<br />

Home Sales feature an array of jewellery, watches, silver,<br />

co<strong>in</strong>s, pictures, ceramics, furniture and collectables as well<br />

as items for the home, garden and garage.<br />

To browse upcom<strong>in</strong>g catalogues onl<strong>in</strong>e, visit<br />

www.richardw<strong>in</strong>terton.co.uk/auction-dates.<br />

Appo<strong>in</strong>tments for free valuations of all types of items<br />

can be booked on 01543 251081 or by email<strong>in</strong>g<br />

office@richardw<strong>in</strong>terton.co.uk.<br />

Free home visits for large collections and house<br />

clearance quotations are also available.


Tastes of the Season<br />

By Simon Smith<br />

It’s All <strong>in</strong> the Game!<br />

Autumn br<strong>in</strong>gs a big change <strong>in</strong> foodstuffs as<br />

we move <strong>in</strong>to the colder months. Gone are<br />

the long hot days of summer and we are<br />

now <strong>in</strong>to the time of year where comfort<br />

food, game and preserved fruits become an<br />

essential part of our diet.<br />

Pheasant shoot<strong>in</strong>g season starts on 1st<br />

<strong>October</strong> and pheasant is widely available. As<br />

with all game, it is a very lean meat as it has<br />

to work hard for its food and burns as many<br />

calories as it eats. If only it were that simple<br />

for the human species! ‘To hang or not to<br />

hang, that is the question’ - personally I<br />

don’t see any benefit from hang<strong>in</strong>g a pheasant for more than a day. Our<br />

tastes have changed through the years and people no longer enjoy eat<strong>in</strong>g<br />

game that smells ‘high’. It already has a different flavour by its very nature<br />

and does not need enhanc<strong>in</strong>g to my m<strong>in</strong>d. The same applies to most other<br />

game dishes.<br />

Hare used to be fairly common, but these days is less easy to f<strong>in</strong>d and you<br />

would have to go to a reputable game butcher to buy it. If not available,<br />

it’s always worth ask<strong>in</strong>g the butcher if he knows anyone who can source<br />

some. Last time I needed one, Russell’s <strong>in</strong> Shenstone came up with the<br />

goods as one of their staff goes shoot<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Game is best eaten p<strong>in</strong>k as it becomes tough very quickly and it benefits<br />

from the addition of fat to the cook<strong>in</strong>g, either by wrapp<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> streaky<br />

bacon or by cook<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> butter if pan fried. It adds to both the flavour and<br />

rapid destruction of our arteries, so be careful!<br />

Pheasant & Prune Sausage with Bubble & Squeak<br />

4 x pheasant breasts<br />

1 x chicken breast<br />

4ozs dried prunes<br />

1 x red onion<br />

Season<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Thyme<br />

1lb seasoned mashed potato<br />

4ozs cooked sprouts<br />

2 x grated carrots<br />

1 x red onion<br />

½ pt thick gravy<br />

1 shot port<br />

Prune juice<br />

Method<br />

Whizz the pheasant and chicken breast through the food processor, along<br />

with diced red onion and season<strong>in</strong>g. Add chopped prunes and thyme. Pipe<br />

mix <strong>in</strong>to cl<strong>in</strong>g film and fold as a sausage. Poach <strong>in</strong> simmer<strong>in</strong>g water for five<br />

m<strong>in</strong>s. Cool, unwrap and fry as a sausage.<br />

For the bubble and squeak, f<strong>in</strong>ely dice the red onion and mix with the<br />

mash, grated carrot and chopped sprouts. Fry the mixture <strong>in</strong> a little oil<br />

and butter.<br />

Boil the gravy, add the port and prune juice. Assemble the dish as shown.<br />

I am still available to cater for d<strong>in</strong>ner parties, barbecues<br />

buffets and corporate cater<strong>in</strong>g and can be reached on<br />

simonsmith57@icloud.com. Alternatively, visit<br />

www.simonsmith-chef.com for further <strong>in</strong>formation.<br />

Autumn Arrives at<br />

The Plant Plot<br />

The even<strong>in</strong>gs are start<strong>in</strong>g to draw <strong>in</strong> and down at The Plant Plot Garden Centre<br />

the new season is already <strong>in</strong> full sw<strong>in</strong>g with some fantastic events planned to spice<br />

up those chillier days!<br />

1st - 30th <strong>October</strong><br />

Autumn Comes to the Village<br />

Why not take a stroll around the craft<br />

village and check out what’s on offer?<br />

There’s someth<strong>in</strong>g for everyone from<br />

artisan cloth<strong>in</strong>g to handmade gifts,<br />

<strong>in</strong>terior items and pieces of dist<strong>in</strong>ct<br />

artwork, plus beauty outlets too!<br />

Sunday 22nd <strong>October</strong><br />

Pumpk<strong>in</strong> Express<br />

A special visit from the Pumpk<strong>in</strong><br />

Express will be tak<strong>in</strong>g place from midday<br />

until 4pm, with fun for the entire family,<br />

plus the chance to purchase your<br />

pumpk<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong> time for Halloween!<br />

Visit The Plant Plot on Stafford Road, <strong>Lichfield</strong>, WS13 8JA or f<strong>in</strong>d<br />

out more by visit<strong>in</strong>g website www.theplantplot.com.<br />

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25


<strong>Lichfield</strong>’s Lost Pubs<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn<br />

By Jono Oates<br />

One of the qua<strong>in</strong>test names <strong>in</strong> the Lost Pubs of <strong>Lichfield</strong> portfolio is the<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn, based on Dam Street. Although the distance between<br />

the two build<strong>in</strong>gs is 120 miles, the name of the <strong>in</strong>n is probably due to the<br />

fact that <strong>Lichfield</strong> was always a royal, loyal city for the monarchy.<br />

In the past the many <strong>in</strong>ns of <strong>Lichfield</strong> were often used aa locations to hold auctions and<br />

<strong>in</strong> March 1814 landlord Francis Egg<strong>in</strong>gton hosted an auction at the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle. On<br />

offer was a lot of Garden Ground, on Dovehouse Field, at the end of Chapel Lane and also<br />

two lots of ‘rich’ land at Castle Ditch (now Castle Dyke).<br />

Inquests held <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>ns and public houses were also a common occurrence <strong>in</strong> Victorian<br />

times and a tragedy was reported <strong>in</strong> August 1877 at the <strong>in</strong>n, when the city coroner, Mr<br />

Charles Simpson, described the case of a woman who had drowned at Stowe Pool. Her<br />

identity was never established, but she had been spotted by several witnesses <strong>in</strong> and<br />

around the city centre, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Sarah Rogers, a servant at the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn, who<br />

said that the lady had called <strong>in</strong> to the <strong>in</strong>n look<strong>in</strong>g for a Joe Savory from Dudley, claim<strong>in</strong>g<br />

that he had run away from her and she was try<strong>in</strong>g to trace him. Sarah said that the lady<br />

was <strong>in</strong> great distress and was cry<strong>in</strong>g. The next day she was found float<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> the waters of<br />

Stowe Pool, but the police could f<strong>in</strong>d no form of identification on her. The jury ruled that<br />

she had taken her own life while <strong>in</strong> an unsound state of m<strong>in</strong>d.<br />

George Holdcroft was the landlord of the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle when, <strong>in</strong> February 1888,<br />

George hosted the draw for a Fox Terrier cours<strong>in</strong>g event to be held on grounds at<br />

Chasetown. Entrance to the grounds was 6d and there was said to be a ‘plentiful supply of<br />

rabbits on hand’. A rabbit stew was believed to be the cause of death of young Emma Mills<br />

<strong>in</strong> the November of that same year. Emma was a servant at the <strong>in</strong>n on Dam Street but had<br />

gone to see her mother at a friend’s house on Geroge Lane where she enjoyed a meal of<br />

rabbit stew, peas and potatoes, washed down with a bottle of stout. She later compla<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

of feel<strong>in</strong>g ill, and went upstairs to lie on a bed for a while. When her mother went up to<br />

see her a few m<strong>in</strong>utes later she was ly<strong>in</strong>g on her back and not breath<strong>in</strong>g, and although the<br />

doctor was called, she passed away soon afterwards. At the <strong>in</strong>quest Dr Edwards said that<br />

Emma had suffered from spasms <strong>in</strong> the past, sometimes 2-3 times a week, and he believed<br />

that the rabbit had proved to be <strong>in</strong>digestible for her, caus<strong>in</strong>g a severe spasm <strong>in</strong> her stomach.<br />

The jury ruled that Emma had ‘come to her death by a visitation from God, <strong>in</strong> a natural<br />

way without <strong>in</strong>jury from anyone’.<br />

Another type of animal was <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> August 1891, this time two ducks, value 5 shill<strong>in</strong>gs<br />

and sixpence, who had allegedly been stolen from the Swan Inn at Fradley junction by five<br />

men from Sandford Street. Elizabeth Mills (sister of the deceased Emma Mills), also a<br />

barmaid at the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle saw the men come <strong>in</strong> to the <strong>in</strong>n although she did not see<br />

a bag conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g the dead ducks. Dur<strong>in</strong>g the trial one of the men, Herbert Freeman,<br />

admitted he had stolen the ducks, that the others were not <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> any way, and he was<br />

sentenced to six weeks’ imprisonment.<br />

In the early 1900s the Licens<strong>in</strong>g Committee of <strong>Lichfield</strong> City Council reviewed license<br />

to trade renewals from pubs and <strong>in</strong>ns <strong>in</strong> and around <strong>Lichfield</strong> and the license of the<br />

W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle was challenged <strong>in</strong> March 1930. The committee said that the <strong>in</strong>n, owned by<br />

the <strong>Lichfield</strong> Brewery Company, was surrounded by 28 fully licensed promises, and two offlicenses,<br />

all with<strong>in</strong> 500 metres of the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle and the <strong>in</strong>n was closed down later<br />

that year, with compensation for its loss be<strong>in</strong>g paid to the Brewery Company.<br />

The build<strong>in</strong>g was then purchased by Robert Bridgeman and Sons, the noted stonemasons<br />

on nearby Quonians Lane, who converted it to a private residence, add<strong>in</strong>g the ornate,<br />

carved, w<strong>in</strong>dow extensions on the first floor of the build<strong>in</strong>g. In the 1950s it was the Sew<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Maids sew<strong>in</strong>g and gifts shop, but today it is a private residence with very little evidence left<br />

that it was once one of <strong>Lichfield</strong>’s oldest licensed premises – the W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn <strong>in</strong> the<br />

heart of Staffordshire!<br />

Sew<strong>in</strong>g Maids, formerly W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn,1950s<br />

The W<strong>in</strong>dsor Castle Inn, 1920s<br />

Elizabethan Cafe (Causeway<br />

House) and Sew<strong>in</strong>g Maids, 1950s<br />

Sources: The British Newspaper Archive; <strong>Lichfield</strong><br />

Pubs by Neil Coley, The Old Pubs of <strong>Lichfield</strong> by John<br />

Shaw.<br />

26


27


28


29


30


31


The Month <strong>in</strong><br />

Pictures<br />

We take a look at the events and<br />

activities over the last month, br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g<br />

you a round-up of the city <strong>in</strong><br />

pictures...<br />

Vegan Market on <strong>Lichfield</strong> Market Square<br />

The Sheriff's Ride at <strong>Lichfield</strong> Cathedral<br />

Shrek the Musical at the Garrick<br />

Sandfields the Musical at Sandfields<br />

Pump<strong>in</strong>g Station (photo by Azimuth Images)<br />

Rock Choir at Whitt<strong>in</strong>gton Country Fair<br />

Proms <strong>in</strong> the Park at Beacon Park<br />

Cllr Serena Mears with Vivienne Schwarzbach on open<strong>in</strong>g night at new<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>ess, The Radiance Residence.<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> Greenhill Bower cheque<br />

presentations at <strong>Lichfield</strong> Guildhall<br />

(photo by Robert Yardley)<br />

Blood Bikes cheque presentation<br />

from <strong>Lichfield</strong> Probus Club<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> Plough<strong>in</strong>g Match, Longways House fields<br />

Gymophobics <strong>Lichfield</strong> celebrated 20 years with an Open Day event on 8th September<br />

(image courtesy of Gymophobics).<br />

32


33


Beacon Park<br />

The Gift of Michael<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun<br />

By Jono Oates<br />

Today, Beacon Park is an important public recreational area just outside the city<br />

centre, with sport<strong>in</strong>g amenities, playgrounds, a café, the formal grounds of the<br />

Museum Gardens, woodland walks and open land for dog walkers, all of which are<br />

provided for locals and visitors to enjoy. The area consists of nearly 70 acres of land, 12<br />

acres of which was provided by one of <strong>Lichfield</strong>’s major benefactors – Colonel Michael<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun.<br />

The majority of the land that is now Beacon Park, ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed by <strong>Lichfield</strong> District Council,<br />

used to be the grounds of a grand stately home, Beacon House or Beacon Place, which had<br />

access via four lodges and was home to some key <strong>Lichfield</strong> families <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g George Hand,<br />

Richard and Ellen Jane H<strong>in</strong>ckley, and Samuel Lipscomb-Seckham.<br />

The house and estate had been sold to the War Department <strong>in</strong> the 1920s and was used as<br />

offices for the military up until World War Two when the land surround<strong>in</strong>g the house was<br />

purchased by Colonel Michael-Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun, who owned nearby Sw<strong>in</strong>fen Hall.<br />

In December 1943, at a meet<strong>in</strong>g of the <strong>Lichfield</strong> City Council it was announced that Colonel<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun had presented 11.5 acres of land, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g pools, part of the Beacon Place Estate,<br />

to the city of <strong>Lichfield</strong> for use as recreational grounds and also gave £200 to erect fenc<strong>in</strong>g around<br />

the grounds. The councillors at the meet<strong>in</strong>g were very appreciative of the very generous offer<br />

and Councillor Averill suggested that the name of the recreational grounds should be called ‘The<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun Park’ which would ‘keep his memory for ever green <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong>’. The council also<br />

listed some of the other benefactions that the Colonel had made <strong>in</strong> recent years, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<br />

£5,000 <strong>in</strong> <strong>October</strong> 1938 to help fund a new Maternity Block at the Victoria Hospital, and £1,200<br />

to be <strong>in</strong>vested <strong>in</strong> the build<strong>in</strong>g of a new sports pavilion <strong>in</strong> the park, once World War Two had come<br />

to an end.<br />

Due to World War Two, the official open<strong>in</strong>g of the recreational grounds was delayed until 1948,<br />

but <strong>in</strong> 1946 a dispute arose between <strong>Lichfield</strong> City Council and the owner of a scrap metal<br />

bus<strong>in</strong>ess. The owner’s bus<strong>in</strong>ess was on Stowe Street, but <strong>in</strong> 1944 the council had compulsory<br />

purchased the site for a new hous<strong>in</strong>g development on the street. The council had offered him<br />

three other locations for his bus<strong>in</strong>ess, each of which he had dismissed as be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>appropriate for<br />

stor<strong>in</strong>g large quantities of scrap metal. The location he wished to use was at the bottom of<br />

Greenhough Road, but the site overlooked the recreational grounds recently provided by<br />

Colonel Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun and the City Council believed that it would be an eye-sore over the<br />

landscaped gardens. Mr Abbott, Plann<strong>in</strong>g Officer for South-East Staffordshire Plann<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Committee, said that a scrap metal yard at that location would be ‘most undesirable’ and the<br />

application to build was denied.<br />

Beacon Park was opened officially by the Mayor of <strong>Lichfield</strong>, Alderman Robert Nevill, on<br />

Saturday 8th May 1948 when they also opened the new m<strong>in</strong>iature golf course. The mayor<br />

thanked Colonel Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun for his very k<strong>in</strong>d benefaction, although the colonel was unable<br />

to attend the open<strong>in</strong>g as he was unwell. Colonel Michael Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun passed away just a<br />

month after the open<strong>in</strong>g of his legacy to <strong>Lichfield</strong>, on 8th June 1948, aged 90.<br />

In his will of September 1948 Colonel Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun left an estate of net value £328, 417 and<br />

granted probate to Harry JC W<strong>in</strong>terton, estate agent on Breadmarket Street. As part of the will<br />

the colonel provided a further f<strong>in</strong>ancial donation for the ‘improvement and lay<strong>in</strong>g-out of part of<br />

the Beacon Park Estate <strong>in</strong> order to make it a beautiful garden for the citizens of <strong>Lichfield</strong>’.<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> City Council purchased the land surround<strong>in</strong>g the Beacon Place Estate <strong>in</strong> 1949 and by<br />

1964, when the former stately home Beacon Place was demolished, the extent of the 70 acres<br />

that we see today was complete.<br />

In <strong>October</strong> 1972 a stone memorial <strong>in</strong> memory of the generous benefactor Colonel Michael<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun was unveiled <strong>in</strong> Beacon Park by the Mayor of <strong>Lichfield</strong>, Councillor John Wilson.<br />

The memorial was the idea of Mr John Hall, and the memorial, sculpted to look like an outcrop,<br />

was crafted by workers from Robert Bridgemans and Sons on Quonians Lane. The memorial<br />

stands by the chang<strong>in</strong>g rooms block, by the small boat<strong>in</strong>g lake, <strong>in</strong> the park.<br />

Today, the people of <strong>Lichfield</strong> can enjoy the beautiful surround<strong>in</strong>gs, and facilities, of Beacon Park<br />

just as its ma<strong>in</strong> benefactor, Colonel Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun, had visualised <strong>in</strong> 1943.<br />

34<br />

John Wilson unveil<strong>in</strong>g Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun<br />

monument, <strong>October</strong> 1972<br />

Oil pa<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g, Colonel Michael Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-<br />

Broun<br />

Sw<strong>in</strong>fen-Broun monument, Beacon Park<br />

*V<strong>in</strong>tage photograph courtesy of the Hub at<br />

St Mary’s photographic collection.<br />

Sources: The British Newspaper Archive; the<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> Lore website.


Weather<strong>in</strong>g the F<strong>in</strong>ancial Storm:<br />

A Case Study by Blossomfield Mortgages<br />

In recent years, homeowners have faced a turbulent f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

landscape, with many see<strong>in</strong>g their mortgage payments <strong>in</strong>crease<br />

follow<strong>in</strong>g a prolonged period of historically low <strong>in</strong>terest rates.<br />

Amidst this uncerta<strong>in</strong>ty, there is a glimmer of hope as market<br />

trends suggest that the Bank of England base rate may be<br />

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At Blossomfield Mortgages, we've witnessed the impact of<br />

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However, on September 1st, we received news of rate<br />

reductions by the very same bank who provided our mortgage<br />

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dropp<strong>in</strong>g from 6.09% to 5.34%. The outcome? A stagger<strong>in</strong>g<br />

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What sets us apart is our commitment to deliver<strong>in</strong>g f<strong>in</strong>ancial<br />

advantages that you won't typically f<strong>in</strong>d when deal<strong>in</strong>g directly<br />

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We understand the challenges posed by today's economic<br />

climate. That's why we're delighted to offer a complimentary<br />

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As your local five-star rated mortgage brokerage, we are<br />

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Blossomfield Mortgages is a trad<strong>in</strong>g name of Blossomfield Group Ltd, which is an<br />

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35


The Stand<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Ovation Musical<br />

By Jono Oates<br />

“The stand<strong>in</strong>g ovation musical…” that is the tagl<strong>in</strong>e of West End hit<br />

Blood Brothers and, hav<strong>in</strong>g seen it recently at the Garrick Theatre, I can<br />

see exactly why! Mov<strong>in</strong>g, powerful, funny, touch<strong>in</strong>g, almost unbearably sad,<br />

bittersweet, engag<strong>in</strong>g, witty… these are just some of the words that you<br />

could apply to this powerhouse of a musical, although to be fair all of the<br />

words <strong>in</strong> the Samuel Johnson English Dictionary could not do it justice!<br />

Presented by Bill Kenwright, this tour<strong>in</strong>g production started <strong>in</strong> 2022<br />

and was at the Garrick <strong>in</strong> early September. The genius work of Willy<br />

Russell, based on the book that he wrote which was published <strong>in</strong> 1976,<br />

the musical features lyrics and music also by Russell, and it was first<br />

performed <strong>in</strong> the West End <strong>in</strong> 1983, mak<strong>in</strong>g its Broadway debut ten years<br />

later <strong>in</strong> 1993. It was such a success on the West End that it ran for over<br />

24 years, mak<strong>in</strong>g it one of the longest-runn<strong>in</strong>g musicals <strong>in</strong> West End<br />

history.<br />

The play revolves around tw<strong>in</strong> boys, born to a work<strong>in</strong>g-class mum <strong>in</strong><br />

the Victorian slums of Liverpool, who is surrounded by a gaggle of<br />

children and overwhelm<strong>in</strong>g debt, and with a husband who clears off as<br />

soon as the tw<strong>in</strong>s are born. Know<strong>in</strong>g that the extra mouths will need<br />

feed<strong>in</strong>g she foolishly agrees to give up one of the tw<strong>in</strong>s to upwardly<br />

mobile, but barren, Mrs Lyons, who she works for as a cleaner. Although<br />

the two tw<strong>in</strong>s are completely unaware of each other’s existence, they<br />

accidentally meet aged seven, become friends and swear to be ‘blood<br />

brothers’ for life. Their lives cont<strong>in</strong>ue to <strong>in</strong>tertw<strong>in</strong>e over the decades,<br />

with one tw<strong>in</strong> lead<strong>in</strong>g a poor life of unemployment and crime, and the<br />

other a privileged lifestyle of money and freedom.<br />

The two brothers meet for the f<strong>in</strong>al time, now <strong>in</strong> their 40s, <strong>in</strong> an<br />

emotionally charged and violent conclusion, chang<strong>in</strong>g the lives of those<br />

that love them forever.<br />

Born <strong>in</strong> Whiston, Merseyside, Willy Russell knows the language and<br />

culture of Liverpool, so his characters have all the wit, charm, banter,<br />

bravado and volatility of typical Scousers. Although the second act is full<br />

of drama and deeply dark tortured scenes, the first act is laced with<br />

humour and witty one l<strong>in</strong>ers and is great fun. The songs are very strong,<br />

with mov<strong>in</strong>g lyrics and, even though this musical was new to me, the<br />

songs were <strong>in</strong>stantly engag<strong>in</strong>g and memorable.<br />

Niki Colwell-Evans (an X-Factor semi-f<strong>in</strong>alist <strong>in</strong> 2007) played the tw<strong>in</strong>s’<br />

tormented mother, Mrs Johnstone, with warmth, character and a gritty<br />

determ<strong>in</strong>ation as she agonised about her decision to give up one of her<br />

sons. Her s<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g voice is filled with strength and emotion, a truly<br />

compell<strong>in</strong>g performance and, as she stands high at the rear of the stage<br />

<strong>in</strong> the conclud<strong>in</strong>g scene, her voice fills the auditorium, strong, beautiful<br />

and clear, and you can sense all of her frustration, grief, love, anger and<br />

desperation <strong>in</strong> that one song – simply stunn<strong>in</strong>g!<br />

The two brothers are played by Sean Jones as lovable work<strong>in</strong>g-class<br />

Mickey Johnstone, and Joe Sleight as the suave, but funny and car<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

upper-class Eddie Lyons (well, Edward to his mother!) Both men have to<br />

act from an age range of 7-year-old kids to 40-year-old men but both<br />

achieve this very conv<strong>in</strong>c<strong>in</strong>gly. Sean is wonderful as the gamboll<strong>in</strong>g, toy<br />

pistol-wav<strong>in</strong>g, pretend horse-rid<strong>in</strong>g muddy-kneed Eddie, but is almost<br />

unrecognisable as the world-weary, tormented, mentally-unstable, drugmuddled<br />

older man – a quite remarkable transformation.<br />

36<br />

Strong support from all the rest of the cast, some of whom play<br />

different roles, especially Jess Smith as the ever-so-cheeky and bubbly<br />

L<strong>in</strong>da, who falls for both of the tw<strong>in</strong> brothers, f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g herself torn<br />

between them. Jess was understudy for Gemma Brodrick, and it was her<br />

first ever performance as L<strong>in</strong>da - a very impressive debut. Danny<br />

Whitehead plays the unnamed narrator, who stands, broodily, <strong>in</strong> the<br />

background of most scenes, with s<strong>in</strong>ister portents of the dramatic events<br />

that are about to unfold. Sarah-Jane Buckley (ex Hollyoaks) played Mrs<br />

Lyons, <strong>in</strong>secure and desperate for a child to complete the happy family<br />

home, whilst Tim Churchill played Mr Lyons with easy charm, wellmean<strong>in</strong>g<br />

and try<strong>in</strong>g to placate all sides while rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g almost oblivious<br />

to the real truth beh<strong>in</strong>d the dramatic backdrop of events. Timothy Lucas<br />

played the tw<strong>in</strong>s’ older brother Sammy, with suitable, snarl<strong>in</strong>g aggressive<br />

menace, as the 9-year-old bully who developed <strong>in</strong>to a 40-year-old bully.<br />

As the lights went up after the f<strong>in</strong>al harrow<strong>in</strong>g and deeply dramatic<br />

end<strong>in</strong>g, “the Stand<strong>in</strong>g Ovation musical” once aga<strong>in</strong> hit the mark as the<br />

audience stood as one, the depth of the applause and cheer<strong>in</strong>g only<br />

matched by the scenes at the end of the Garrick’s hugely successful<br />

pantomimes. As the cast took their fourth curta<strong>in</strong> bow, wide smiles<br />

appeared on their faces, clearly show<strong>in</strong>g that they had not only enjoyed<br />

themselves, but truly appreciated the warm, enthusiastic reaction of the<br />

knowledgeable Garrick audience.<br />

One of the best shows that I have seen over the last eight years that I<br />

have been review<strong>in</strong>g theatre shows (and I have seen many good ones!),<br />

my only regret is that I have not seen it live on stage before.<br />

See what’s com<strong>in</strong>g up at The Garrick Theatre and book tickets at<br />

www.lichfieldgarrick.com, r<strong>in</strong>g the Box Office on 01543 412121 or call <strong>in</strong> to<br />

the Box Office on Castle Dyke, <strong>Lichfield</strong>, WS13 6HR, dur<strong>in</strong>g open<strong>in</strong>g hours.


37


What’s On<br />

Promote your event <strong>in</strong> our What’s On guide and reach over 16,000<br />

homes and bus<strong>in</strong>esses for only £20 for bus<strong>in</strong>esses and £10 for charities.<br />

Entries must be 50 words maximum. To book contact Rebecca Hill<br />

07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com<br />

Please clearly mark your email ‘What’s On <strong>Lichfield</strong>'.<br />

Sunday 8th <strong>October</strong><br />

Hammerwich Charity<br />

Classic Car Show<br />

For all tax exempt vehicles over 40 years old,<br />

the show is free for visitors and exhibitors,<br />

although a voluntary donation to the<br />

Burntwood Lions would be most welcome.<br />

No need to book, just turn up. Exhibitors<br />

arrive by 9.45am.<br />

Venue: Hammerwich Cricket Club, Burntwood<br />

Road, WS7 0JQ.<br />

Time: 10am-4pm.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation contact Martyn Anker<br />

on 01543 673399 or<br />

martynandsueanker@gmail.com<br />

Wednesday 11th <strong>October</strong><br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> u3a<br />

Monthly meet<strong>in</strong>gs held on the second<br />

Wednesday of each month. Next meet<strong>in</strong>g<br />

features speaker Graham Short with My Life as<br />

a Micro Artist. Everyone welcome.<br />

Venue: <strong>Lichfield</strong> Guildhall<br />

Time: 2pm<br />

Please book your place by email<strong>in</strong>g<br />

lichfieldu3a@gmail.com or leave a message on<br />

07510 634476.<br />

Friday 20th <strong>October</strong><br />

Halloween Murder Mystery<br />

Enjoy a three-course d<strong>in</strong>ner and put your<br />

<strong>in</strong>vestigative skills to the test at The George<br />

Hotel’s Halloween Murder Mystery Even<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Venue: The George Hotel<br />

Time: 7pm<br />

Price: £44 per person<br />

Book onl<strong>in</strong>e at www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk.<br />

Wednesday 25th <strong>October</strong><br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> u3a Showcase Event<br />

The <strong>Lichfield</strong> U3a is putt<strong>in</strong>g on a showcase<br />

event with more than 60 groups for different<br />

<strong>in</strong>terests, with live music and free<br />

refreshments. Anyone semi-retired or retired<br />

can jo<strong>in</strong>.<br />

Venue: <strong>Lichfield</strong> Guildhall<br />

Time: 1pm-4pm<br />

Word Perfect Creative Writ<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Word Perfect Creative Writ<strong>in</strong>g is a weekly<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> group for new and experienced<br />

writers. Explore poetry, fiction, drama and nonfiction.<br />

Identify the strengths of your work and<br />

learn new techniques <strong>in</strong> a friendly and<br />

supportive group. Each session is designed to<br />

help you become the writer you want to be.<br />

Wednesday even<strong>in</strong>g session, 7pm till 9pm.<br />

Friday morn<strong>in</strong>g session, 11am till 1pm.<br />

Friday afternoon session, 2pm till 4pm.<br />

£10 per session. All materials <strong>in</strong>cluded. No need<br />

to block book and you only pay for the sessions<br />

you attend.<br />

For more <strong>in</strong>formation or to book your place<br />

contact Joss on 07833 735048 or at<br />

wordperfectcreativewrit<strong>in</strong>g@gmail.com<br />

J HOWELL &<br />

DAUGHTERS<br />

FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD<br />

LICHFIELD’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT,<br />

FAMILY RUN FUNERAL DIRECTORS.<br />

SECOND GENERATION BUSINESS HERE TO ASSIST YOU<br />

AND YOUR FAMILY.<br />

24 hours a day<br />

We are proud to be <strong>Lichfield</strong>'s longest established family run funeral directors offer<strong>in</strong>g a wide range of<br />

choices to suit all requirements. Horse drawn hearse, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and<br />

memorials are but a few of the services we offer.<br />

Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.<br />

For a truly personal service please call<br />

01543 255776<br />

Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe,<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong>, Staffs. WS13 6TS<br />

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40<br />

W<strong>in</strong> Tickets to the<br />

Festive Gift Fair at<br />

the NEC<br />

The biggest and most lively<br />

<strong>in</strong>door Christmas shopp<strong>in</strong>g fair<br />

<strong>in</strong> the heart of the country is<br />

back! There’s fabulous<br />

barga<strong>in</strong>s, great musical<br />

enterta<strong>in</strong>ment and so much<br />

choice!<br />

Be <strong>in</strong>spired and get your<br />

festive preparations off to a<br />

fly<strong>in</strong>g start at the ever-popular<br />

four-day Festive Gift Fair this<br />

November. Now <strong>in</strong> its 27th fabulous year, it rema<strong>in</strong>s one of the<br />

most popular Christmas Shopp<strong>in</strong>g events <strong>in</strong> the UK for a good<br />

reason!<br />

The Fair will be burst<strong>in</strong>g at the seams with a colourful, eclectic mix<br />

of unusual stock<strong>in</strong>g fillers and presents, festive food and dr<strong>in</strong>k and<br />

great Christmas decorations for your home and garden. There’s<br />

325+ stalls all <strong>in</strong> one hall, with clever gift ideas for all ages and<br />

tastes, and lots of Special Show Offers!<br />

The festive atmosphere is always fantastic! While brows<strong>in</strong>g the<br />

stalls, let the music get you <strong>in</strong>to that Christmassy mood and enjoy<br />

be<strong>in</strong>g enterta<strong>in</strong>ed by the Gr<strong>in</strong>ch, up to his usual menac<strong>in</strong>g antics,<br />

Father Christmas with his amaz<strong>in</strong>g sleigh, a whole variety of<br />

Christmas harmonies by live musicians, and jazz stilt walkers who<br />

will be legg<strong>in</strong>g it up the aisles!<br />

Make sure you visit the popular Festive Food & Dr<strong>in</strong>k area where<br />

you’ll f<strong>in</strong>d tempt<strong>in</strong>g stalls sell<strong>in</strong>g everyth<strong>in</strong>g from cheese to<br />

chutneys, spices to spirits, pudd<strong>in</strong>gs to preserves, chocolates to<br />

champagne, beers to brownies and hampers to hog roasts!<br />

More than just a shopp<strong>in</strong>g trip, it’s the start of Christmas!<br />

The Festive Gift Fair runs from Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th<br />

November. Tickets are available from www.festivegiftfair.co.uk.<br />

Take advantage of the Special Ticket Offer – ‘Buy 3 and get 1 Free’<br />

on advance Thursday/Friday adult full day tickets.<br />

We’ve got 10 pairs of tickets to give away for the Festive Gift Fair.<br />

To be <strong>in</strong> with a chance of w<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g a pair, simply correctly complete<br />

the follow<strong>in</strong>g statement and send it to us, along with your address<br />

details.<br />

This year is the _ _ _ year that the Festive Gift<br />

Fair has been runn<strong>in</strong>g…<br />

a) 19th<br />

b) 24th<br />

c) 27th<br />

To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to NEC<br />

Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your entry to<br />

<strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd, PO Box 7126, <strong>Lichfield</strong> WS14 4JS by the clos<strong>in</strong>g<br />

date of 22nd <strong>October</strong> <strong>2023</strong>. One entry per household. Multiple entries<br />

will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or<br />

over to enter. All entrants’ <strong>in</strong>formation is processed <strong>in</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e with GDPR<br />

Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy (available at<br />

citylife<strong>in</strong>lichfieldltd.co.uk). Full t&cs on page 50.<br />

Contemplate the<br />

Earth at the<br />

Cathedral<br />

Photo by Gareth Jones<br />

This Autumn sees <strong>Lichfield</strong> Cathedral celebrate its Earth <strong>in</strong><br />

a series of exhibitions, artwork and events for the whole<br />

community, all underneath the beautiful artwork Gaia by<br />

Luke Jerram.<br />

Luke Jerram’s seven meter-wide artwork, Gaia, is suspended <strong>in</strong> the<br />

nave of <strong>Lichfield</strong> Cathedral until 5th November. The artwork uses<br />

NASA imagery to recreate a rotat<strong>in</strong>g Earth, allow<strong>in</strong>g visitors to<br />

contemplate our fragile blue planet from a different perspective,<br />

usually reserved for astronauts.<br />

Part of Luke’s vision for Gaia is that people will understand the<br />

fragility of our planet and will be <strong>in</strong>spired to protect it for future<br />

generations. <strong>Lichfield</strong> Cathedral have taken this theme and created an<br />

exhibition called Journey Through Creation, that will run alongside<br />

Gaia’s <strong>in</strong>stallation.<br />

The exhibition will take visitors through the account of creation <strong>in</strong><br />

the Bible us<strong>in</strong>g m<strong>in</strong>i-<strong>in</strong>stallations around the Cathedral, to celebrate<br />

the wonders of our planet. Installations will <strong>in</strong>clude artwork from<br />

children who have taken part <strong>in</strong> the children’s activities over the<br />

summer. There will be an aquarium, a garden space, float<strong>in</strong>g clouds and<br />

much more to explore.<br />

Visitors can enjoy both Gaia and Journey Through Creation dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

a usual day time visit, Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-<br />

5pm.<br />

Special even<strong>in</strong>g events run over each weekend of the <strong>in</strong>stallation<br />

(Friday-Sunday 7pm-9pm) and dur<strong>in</strong>g all of half term (Monday 30th<br />

<strong>October</strong> - Sunday 5th November 7pm-9pm). Dur<strong>in</strong>g these events<br />

ticket holders can explore both <strong>in</strong>stallations when the Cathedral<br />

would usually be closed. Internally lit, Gaia comes <strong>in</strong>to its own dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

the even<strong>in</strong>g when the Cathedral lights will be low and there is a more<br />

profound sense of what it might be like to see Earth from space.<br />

More <strong>in</strong>formation and tickets are available on<br />

<strong>Lichfield</strong> Cathedral’s website at www.lichfieldcathedral.org/gaia.


41


CLASSIFIED<br />

For Sale <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong><br />

Selection of nearly new<br />

Caravan Equipment.<br />

Air Awn<strong>in</strong>g, Kampa Rally Air 260 pus<br />

pro L/H. As new used twice £575.00<br />

(cost new £800.00)<br />

First view<strong>in</strong>g will buy.<br />

AL-KO Hitch Lock £50.<br />

Bailey Wheel Lock £50.<br />

Electric Cable with adaptor £15.<br />

Contact: Mike 07900 982456<br />

To Advertise call:-<br />

Steve Brown 07740 166497<br />

stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com<br />

Rebecca Hill 07970 513144<br />

rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com<br />

Mike James 07900 982456<br />

mikejamescitylife@gmail.com<br />

Competition and Prize Draw Terms and Conditions<br />

1.Entrants’ details will be held and processed <strong>in</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e with <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd’s Privacy Policy, which <strong>in</strong> turn adheres<br />

to GDPR Data Protection legislation. For a copy of our Privacy Policy please email kristencitylife@gmail.com<br />

2.By enter<strong>in</strong>g the prize draw/competition, you agree to the terms and conditions stated.<br />

3.The clos<strong>in</strong>g date is stated on each <strong>in</strong>dividual prize draw or competition.<br />

4.Entrants’ details will be securely held by <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd <strong>in</strong> accordance with our Privacy Policy. Details will be<br />

held only until the clos<strong>in</strong>g date of the competition. After this date entrants’ details will be securely destroyed/deleted.<br />

W<strong>in</strong>ners’ contact details will be securely stored only until the w<strong>in</strong>ner has been <strong>in</strong>formed of their w<strong>in</strong>/prize. After this<br />

details will be securely deleted/destroyed.<br />

5.Entrants’ details will never be shared with any third party. The only exception to this is the name (and if the prize is to<br />

be posted) address of Competition/Prize Draw w<strong>in</strong>ners that will be communicated to the competition partner to allow<br />

w<strong>in</strong>ners to securely claim their prize, after which all details will be securely destroyed. The <strong>in</strong>itial and surname of<br />

w<strong>in</strong>ners will be pr<strong>in</strong>ted <strong>in</strong> our magaz<strong>in</strong>es – no other details will be published.<br />

6.By enter<strong>in</strong>g the competition/prize draw, entrants agree to <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd us<strong>in</strong>g or publish<strong>in</strong>g materials provided<br />

by the entrants (but not address or contact details apart from <strong>in</strong>itial and surname) <strong>in</strong> any of their publications and onl<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

7.<strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd accepts no responsibility for any breach of copyright or breach of any other legislation entailed<br />

by entrants <strong>in</strong> their creation or submission of materials.<br />

8.Only one entry per prize draw/competition, per reader.<br />

9.Except <strong>in</strong> the case of cash prizes, no cash equivalent will be offered and the prize is non-transferable.<br />

10.All prizes are subject to availability and the prize suppliers' terms and conditions.<br />

11.No purchase necessary.<br />

12.Prize draws and competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or over (unless otherwise stated).<br />

13.Competitions and prize draws may not be entered by any employee of <strong>in</strong>dividual associated with any employee,<br />

agent or third party of <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd.<br />

14.W<strong>in</strong>ners will be selected at random <strong>in</strong> the case of applicable prize draws and competitions, or by an <strong>in</strong>dependent<br />

42<br />

judge <strong>in</strong> the case of photographic/art competitions from all entries received.<br />

15.W<strong>in</strong>ners will be notified by <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> up to 28 days after the clos<strong>in</strong>g date of the competition/prize draw by<br />

the contact details provided by the entrant. W<strong>in</strong>ners have 28 days to respond if contact cannot be made <strong>in</strong>itially. If no<br />

response is forthcom<strong>in</strong>g after 28 days, <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> reserves the right to redraw the competition and select a new<br />

w<strong>in</strong>ner.<br />

16.A list of the surnames and county of residence of the w<strong>in</strong>ners will be available by writ<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd no<br />

earlier than six weeks after the competition clos<strong>in</strong>g date.<br />

17.When the prize draw/competition w<strong>in</strong>ner has been selected, this decision is f<strong>in</strong>al and no correspondence will be<br />

entered <strong>in</strong>to.<br />

18.<strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd accepts no responsibility for the prize be<strong>in</strong>g lost, damaged or delayed <strong>in</strong> transit. When the<br />

prize is provided by a third party, <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd accepts no responsibility for any change to the prize, or for the<br />

quality of the prize provided.<br />

19.Competitions may be amended or withdrawn at any time.<br />

20.By enter<strong>in</strong>g the competition or prize draw, you agree to hav<strong>in</strong>g your name, (photograph, where stated) and city or<br />

county of residence published <strong>in</strong> any of <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong>’s publications and onl<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

21.Unless otherwise stated, the promoter is <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd, PO Box 7126, <strong>Lichfield</strong>, WS14 4JS.<br />

22. <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd do not express any warranty or endorsement of any competition prize, <strong>in</strong>formation, service or<br />

product provided <strong>in</strong> connection with a competition by pr<strong>in</strong>t<strong>in</strong>g or otherwise publicis<strong>in</strong>g any competition.<br />

23.To the full extent of the law, <strong>Citylife</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Lichfield</strong> Ltd shall not be liable for any loss, claim, punitive, <strong>in</strong>direct, <strong>in</strong>cidental<br />

or consequential damages of any k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong>curred as a result of enter<strong>in</strong>g this prize draw or competition.<br />

24.By submitt<strong>in</strong>g photos, text or artworks as part of competition/prize draw entries you agree that you own these photos<br />

text or artworks, that it is your orig<strong>in</strong>al work to which you own all rights to distribute, and that your entry is accurate,<br />

moral and legal.


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