Citylife in Lichfield March 2024

3

Welcome to
CITYLIFE
Welcome to CITYLIFE in Lichfield, a monthly magazine
bringing you our pick of the city’s news, events and stories.
Each month CITYLIFE in Lichfield is delivered to
businesses and homes in Lichfield, Kings Bromley, Fradley,
Alrewas, Hill Ridware, Whittington, Shenstone,
Hammerwich, Burntwood, Streethay, Yoxall and Longdon,
completely free of charge; bringing you the best that the
city has to offer.
Each issue features heritage stories exploring the rich
history of our area, plus competitions, interviews and the
latest in fashion and style.
Got a story or charity event you want to share with our
readership? Think you’ve snapped an image that captures
the spirit of the city? We want to hear from you!
Our business is bringing you Lichfield’s city life.
CITYLIFE Contacts
Editor - Kristen Lackajis 07885 380632
kristencitylife@gmail.com
Advertising -
Steve Brown 07740 166497 stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com
Rebecca Hill 07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com
Mike James 07900 982456 mikejamescitylife@gmail.com
Design - Helen Smith 07967 154187 helencitylife@gmail.com
Distribution - Rebecca Hill 07970 513144
Inside...
6 Local News
What's been happening in & around the area
16 Win Gym Membership
New gym Energie Fitness is giving away
3 months' membership
29 Mothering Sunday
Lesley Smith takes us back in time
32 Rustic Dining with a Twist!
We review The Meynell Ingram Arms
34 Mother's Day Gift Guide
Find the perfect pressie for Mum!
..................................
Citylife In Lichfield Ltd
PO Box 7126 LICHFIELD WS14 4JS
CITYLIFE in Lichfield and CITYLIFE in Rugeley and Cannock Chase
magazines are not connected to any other publication or publisher, and
are wholly owned by CITYLIFE in Lichfield Ltd.
Citylife In Lichfield
@citylifelichfield
@lichfieldcity
www.citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk
Citylife in Lichfield Ltd does not endorse any business or organisation
appearing in these pages, and the publication of any advertisement,
editorial, event listing or advertising editorial does not constitute an
endorsement by Citylife in Lichfield Ltd.
Your Local
Community Magazine

5

LOCAL NEWS
6
Spoken Word
Night Success
The Lichfield
Garrick kicked
off its first-ever
spoken word
open mic night
with a bang in
the vibrant
ambiance of the
theatre's Green
Room. The
event, held in
January, saw an
electrifying
turnout of over
thirty writers
who mesmerised a captivated audience with
their poetry and prose.
Local poet, Joss Musgrove Knibb, orchestrated
and hosted the evening, transforming the Green
Room into a literary haven where creativity
flowed as freely as the applause. Building on this
phenomenal debut, the Garrick proudly
announces the establishment of the recurring
"Top Hat Spoken Word Open Mic" event, set to
take place in the Garrick’s Studio on Tuesday
19th March 19th. This professional stage
promises an immersive experience with topnotch
lighting, sound, and an intimate
atmosphere, offering performers the perfect
backdrop to showcase their talents.
Joss Musgrove Knibb, the creative force behind
the success, expressed her excitement: "We're
thrilled to invite the Midlands' brilliant creative
minds to the stage once again. The Top Hat
Open Mic will be an evening of literary
enchantment, where names drawn from a top
hat will ensure a fair chance for everyone to
step up to the mic."
To participate, enthusiasts can secure their spot
by booking through Top Hat Spoken Word
Open Mic (lichfieldgarrick.com) or by
contacting the theatre at 01543 412121.
Alternatively, names can be added to the list at
the door on the night. All names will then go
into the hat, ready to be drawn. Entry £3 per
person. Doors open at 6.30pm, and
performances start at 7pm.
.......................................................................................
SI Raises Funds for
Charity
Recently, Soroptimists International Lichfield
raised more than £1,200 for local charity,
Talking Newspapers, which is to be presented
to the organisation at its March meeting, held at
the Cathedral Hotel on Beacon Street.
The Soroptimists, who held a quiz night to raise
the funds, have supported the Talking
Newspapers longer and more regularly than
any other organisation. Whilst Covid initially did
a lot of damage to the organisation, which relies
on volunteers and donations in order to
provide its spoken word services to the blind, it
is now in a period of growth. The service has
taken on an average of five new listeners each
month for the past eight months, with each new
listener costing £60 to the charity.
A spokesperson for Talking Newspapers said:
“Your contributions have a genuine impact, and
for that we thank you.”
For more information about the Soroptimists,
email contactus@silichfield.org.uk.
.......................................................................................
Church to Become
Community Venue
Rev Chris Ambler hands over the keys to Councillors
Councillors in Burntwood were celebrating
recently as Burntwood Town Council
completed its purchase of the former Chase
Terrace Methodist Church in Princess Street.
After some repair and refurbishment work, the
former church will be available as a community
venue for use by local organisations.
The £240,000 deal with the Methodist Church
brings to an end a long campaign by former
church members, local councillors, partner
organisations and the local community to retain
the redundant building as a community facility,
much-needed in the town.
Once repairs have been undertaken, a
management committee is to be set up to run
the building which will then be open for hire.
.......................................................................................
New Soft Play at
Leisure Centre
A fantastic new soft play facility for young
children officially opened in February at
Burntwood Leisure Centre.
Active Kids Zone, situated on the ground floor
of the leisure centre, features slides, steps,
obstacles and building blocks in bright colours
and is suitable for children aged between 18
months and ten years of age.
The soft play has been installed by Lichfield
District Council in partnership with
Microsports which will be managing the facility.
There is no need to book, admission is £3 (it’s
free this coming half term, 12 to 16 February)
and while children are having major soft play fun
their parents can enjoy refreshments available
from the café in reception.
.......................................................................................
Chasewater Firm
Celebrates Milestone
A sports injury
and fitness clinic
in South
Staffordshire has
revealed an
impressive 12-
month period of
growth as it
celebrates a
b u s i n e s s
milestone.
From humble
beginnings in a
Marcus Slade
small room at a
local gym, Paeon Injury and Fitness Clinic, now
based at Chasewater Country Park, Burntwood,
Continued page 8

Advertising Feature
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7

LOCAL NEWS
is marking its 10th anniversary with the
revelation that it is going from strength to
strength.
Described as an “incredible journey” by
company founder Marcus Slade, the clinic is
celebrating the landmark with the news that it’s
witnessed a remarkable 37% increase in new
clients as well as an impressive 42% overall
performance boost compared to the previous
year.
Last year also saw Paeon’s brand expand with
the launch of its first franchise in Leeds.
Visit www.paeon.co.uk for further information.
.......................................................................................
AFC Fradley Named
Club of Month
A Lichfield football club has kicked off the new
year in style after being presented with
Staffordshire FA’s Club of the Month award.
AFC Fradley was established less than two
years ago and already has 300 footballers
playing across 20 teams every week.
The club’s 56 coaches and volunteers are now
celebrating with players and their families after
they were presented with Staffordshire Football
Association's Club of the Month for November
and December.
AFC Fradley has emerged as a powerhouse
within the local football scene. The club, which
currently caters to players from ages four to 50,
not only fosters a love for the game but also
serves as a platform for inclusion and diversity.
With specific programs for girls' football, a
dedicated disability team for those with special
educational needs, and a comprehensive
structure for both men and women's teams,
AFC Fradley epitomises the spirit and ethos of
community-based sports.
For more information about AFC Fradley visit
https://www.afcfradley.org.
8
Alex Scott(left) and Darren Peck
Picture Perfect for
Local Photographer
At the recent, prestigious 40th Master
Photographers Association (MPA) International
Awards ceremony, Sarah Baldock of Sarah
Baldock Portraits, based in Kings Bromley, was
honoured with two highly sort-after merits in
the newborn category. This recognition places
her among the elite in a highly competitive
international arena, where only eight Merits
were awarded in this category from hundreds
of submissions from around the world.
This announcement comes just as Sarah
prepares to launch her new 'Moments and
Milestones' experience, a unique experience
meticulously crafted to capture every precious
moment of a baby’s first years through both
photography and personalised milestone
recordings.
Sarah works from her custom-designed studio
in Kings Bromley and specialises in capturing
the essence of family milestones, from
maternity through to a child's first birthday and
beyond.
Visit www.sarahbaldockportraits.co.uk for
more.
.......................................................................................
Garrick Thanks
Panto Audiences
Simon Price (left) and Julian Fisher (right) of We Love
Lichfield with Matt Clay (centre) of Lichfield Garrick Theatre
The audiences of Lichfield Garrick Theatre's
pantomime have demonstrated exceptional
generosity, donating an amazing £7,473.38,
during the month long festive run. The
donations will be used to further the arts and
support voluntary groups across Lichfield
District.
The substantial sum will be allocated between
the Lichfield Garrick Charity and We Love
Lichfield. Both organisations are dedicated to
making a difference in the local community and
fostering positive change.
The Lichfield Garrick Theatre charitable trust
acknowledges the profound impact of the arts
on health and well-being. The funds raised will
be directed towards providing enriching
cultural experiences for young people and
community groups, addressing inequalities and
combating feelings of isolation within the
district. Additionally, these funds will nurture
the development of the next generation of
creative talent from the region.
We Love Lichfield, part of the Community
Foundation for Staffordshire and Shropshire,
provide grants to a diverse range of voluntary
groups, focusing on smaller organisations,
making a tangible difference. To date, the
community fund has contributed over £300,000
to over 250 groups across the Lichfield District,
including the city, Burntwood, and surrounding
areas.
Happy Birthday Audrey Williams
Family Notices
Readers are now able to place a notice
in Citylife in Lichfield magazine to let
others know of an important event,
occasion or celebration that is taking
place. If you would like to place details
of any births, deaths, marriages or
other occasions, please contact
Rebecca Hill at
rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com or on
telephone 07970 513144.
Notices will consist of a maximum 50
words, plus an image, at a cost of £24
(inclusive of VAT).

9

Staffs’ Best Kept Village Open for Entries
The Community Foundation’s Best Kept Village and Community
Competition is now open for 2024 and is being sponsored by
famous TV auctioneer Richard Winterton. The competition will
celebrate the charm and vibrancy of Staffordshire's villages and
communities and to help during the cost-of-living crisis the event
will be free to enter this year.
There has already been an increase in interest from communities
across the county eager to showcase their unique character and
community spirit. While the
competition has historically
celebrated the aesthetic
charm of Staffordshire's
villages, the judges in 2024
want entrants to showcase
their community spirit, with
community cohesion and
unity now accounting for
25% of overall marks.
Cannock Chase Crematorium recently made a cash donation
of £7,000 to two charities which support children and young
people, Young Lives vs Cancer and Windmills.
These donations have been made possible because the crematorium
is a member of the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium
Management National Recycling of Metals Scheme. The scheme is a
national initiative and works to sensitively recover residual metal items
such as orthopaedic implants or metals used in the construction of the
coffin, following the cremation process. These are then recycled, with
the written consent of the bereaved family, to raise invaluable funds for
charity.
In an exciting
development, thanks to
increased sponsorship, the
Community Foundation has
been able to waive the entry
fee for any Staffordshire or Stoke-on-Trent based community or village
wishing to enter.
There are multiple categories including large villages and small villages.
There are sustainable and green awards plus, for children, competitions
to celebrate their writing and art skills.
The deadline for free entry is 31st March 2024 and communities
interested in participating can find more information and entry
guidelines on the official website at www.bestkept.community.
Crematorium Donates
to Children's Charities
Jo Walker, Manager of Cannock Chase Crematorium, invited
representatives from both charities to the crematorium to understand
more about how the metals recycling scheme works. She presented a
cheque for £7,000 to Joe Burns, Senior Fundraising & Engagement
Manager for Young Lives vs Cancer and another for £7,000 to Leeanne
Clay & Zara Toussaint, Specialist Practitioners in Acute Bereavement
for Windmills.
This is the fifth major donation that Cannock Chase Crematorium
has made to local charities since opening in April 2021, bringing the
total donated through this scheme to an incredible £63,000.
Leeanne Clay, Jo Walker and
Zara Toussaint.
Joe Burns & Jo Walker.
Anyone wanting to find out more about how the metals recycling
scheme works can join a Behind the Scenes Tour of the crematorium
held on the last Thursday of every month from 6pm to 7.30pm. Those
interested can contact the crematorium to book a place.
Tel: 01543 212988 or email: info@cannockcrematorium.co.uk.
10

11

Revitalising Our City!
By Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council
Nearly two years ago, the new owners of
Three Spires Shopping Centre
approached Lichfield District Council
regarding the possibility of working
together to repurpose the vacant
Debenhams building into a boutique
cinema. Recognising the potential benefits
of using an existing building rather than
developing a new site, both parties
embarked on a challenging journey aimed at
enhancing the city centre’s appeal and
stimulating economic activity.
The subsequent phases of the project required multiple parties to work
together methodically - comprising legal experts, financial analysts, and
construction professionals working in concert to overcome the myriad
logistical challenges inherent in the redevelopment process (the building
did not lend itself naturally to being a cinema!).
Negotiations have now culminated in the execution of a 25-year lease
agreement with Everyman, a highly reputable national cinema operator
renowned for its emphasis on delivering premium cinematic experiences.
Everyman's operational ethos, characterised by an emphasis on quality,
sophistication, and hospitality, aligns seamlessly with the overarching vision
for the revitalisation of Lichfield's urban landscape.
However, the transformation of the Debenhams building represents
merely one aspect of a broader redevelopment initiative. Concurrent
efforts include the integration of a rooftop bar and a spacious plaza,
designed to augment the city centre’s recreational and social amenities.
Additionally, plans are underway to repurpose the former Tempest Ford
site into high-quality residential accommodation, thereby enriching the
city's residential fabric.
In the interim, measures will be implemented to enhance public
infrastructure and amenities, including the development of open spaces,
office facilities, and a hotel. These initiatives are intended to foster a
cohesive and harmonious blend of commercial, residential, and
recreational elements, thereby contributing to the creation of a vibrant
and sustainable urban environment.
Central to the project's ethos is a commitment to inclusivity and
community engagement. Everyman's diverse film selection, encompassing
mainstream releases, independent films, and timeless classics, ensures that
cinematic offerings cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences.
Special events, film premieres, and live broadcasts further enrich the
cultural landscape, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared
experiences among patrons.
The redevelopment of Debenhams signifies a concerted effort to
revitalise Lichfield's urban core through strategic planning and
collaboration. As the project progresses, its impact will extend beyond the
realm of infrastructure, revitalising the city's cultural and economic vitality
for generations to come. With Everyman's involvement, Lichfield's
landscape is poised to undergo a transformation that is both measured
and meaningful - and will finally unlock this key part of our city.
Partnership: The Key to Success
By Darren Ennis, Leader of Burntwood Town Council
Spring is such a lovely time and for us at
Burntwood Town Council, it also marks the
beginning of several exciting partnerships.
few months ago, we ran a survey asking
residents where they felt our grant funding should
go, and we were told loudly and clearly that we
should be funding youth services for 11 to 18-
year-olds, and adult mental health and wellbeing
support. As a result of this feedback, we asked
charities and community groups to apply to us for funding to deliver
projects addressing those key areas, and last month Councillors were
delighted to award £15,000 each to three organisations over three years
to deliver much needed services
Fun Club Hub will be able to continue to offer a weekly youth club for
local teenagers, providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space to be as
well as fun and engaging activities and support.
Platinum Boxing have a fantastic track record of supporting our
community. Their organisation offers free places for young people who
have financial barriers to accessing training. Our funding will provide the
chance for Platinum to continue to grow and work with more kids in our
community.
Burton and District Mind will be offering new activities and
opportunities to support adults with their mental health, as well as
having a longer term aim to establish a community venue here.
We are proud to invest in these organisations and bring more
opportunities to our town, I simply wish we had more money to give. We
had many applicants, and we could easily have selected additional groups.
We also begin another exciting partnership this month with the
Lichfield Garrick Theatre, bringing performing arts and creative activities
to Burntwood. The Town Council have contributed to the Garrick’s
budget for this project and we will be working with them to deliver this
new initiative.
A new addition that some residents may have spotted are several cycle
racks which we have supplied and installed in every shopping area to
make it more convenient for residents who may wish to ride to our local
businesses.
Further details about the Town Council can be found by following
us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or on our NEW website
www.burntwood-tc.gov.uk
12

World’s Top
Watercolour Masters
coming to IWM2024
The world’s elite watercolour Master artists return
to the UK for an incredible festival of art from May
15th to May 24th 2024.
Set at historic Lilleshall Hall in Shropshire, the
IWM2024 show will feature more than 150
masterpiece paintings from 50 of the world’s best
artists.
All paintings in the show are for sale meaning this is a
great opportunity to collect a masterpiece from the
world’s best painters.
Masters will be on hand during the 10-day show and
there will be several live demonstrations daily,
included in the cost of entrance. Workshops will run
every day (separate booking on IWM website) and
artists from as far afield as China, Brazil, Argentina, and
the USA will be present during the show.
IWM2024 is organised by Royal Institute elected artist
member David Poxon RI. IWM2024 will be the third
event in the biennale series and it is a unique show
for the UK - never before have such world famous
watercolour stars assembled in such numbers for an
exhibition anywhere! A testament to the first class
reputation and organisation the show has throughout
the art world.
There are woodland trails, Italian gardens, a cafe,
restaurant, free parking, disabled access and lots more
facilities on hand for a great day out.
Admission is by advance ticket from the IWM website
at www.iwm2024.com or from Eventbrite.
13

Your Garden in March
By Byron Lewis
14
Can it get any wetter? February was pretty much a washout for most
people, and your garden may still be sodden so take care when you’re
on lawns and borders as you may end up compacting your soil by
walking on it. If in doubt, leave it a little longer before tackling any
major work!
March is the start of spring for many, and spring bulbs are now out in
abundance. If you didn’t plant any in the autumn, now is the time to
identify gaps in your borders and add a few pots of crocus, tulip,
daffodil or snowdrops in. These can be left in situ and will establish
over the coming seasons, filling your border with colour for little
effort.
Spring shrubs of interest include forsythia, camellia and magnolia
which will all be showing colourful buds soon. These tend to be larger
plants, so if planting them in the border, make sure you have enough
space for them to perform. You can also use these in pots if you are
short on room – the bigger the pot the better, and remember to feed
them well as there won’t be a lot of root space for them to find
nutrients. Like bulbs, these last for years with the display getting
better every spring.
You still have time to prune fruit trees, rose bushes and other
deciduous trees and shrubs. They may just start to be showing new
leaf growth – this is good as you can cut just above these and shape
your plants easily. Don’t forget to give all your borders a good feed –
pelleted chicken manure is a good all-round fertiliser, with a few
handfuls scattered around each plant being plenty to provide
nutrients for a couple of months.
An important diary date – Mothering Sunday! This falls on Sunday
March 10th this year – why not treat Mum to a gardening gift?
Garden centres will be full of fresh colourful houseplants with
fabulous blooms (all lasting longer than cut flowers too). Foliage
plants are in fashion at the moment – as well as succulents and cactus.
Combine your plants with co-ordinated ‘pot covers’ which the plants
stand in, and you have a simple easy gift.
For outdoors, planted pots always make a good present, with spring
pots and tubs giving months of interest. Alternatively, let Mum choose
using National Garden Gift Cards, which can be spent at Garden
Centres across the UK.
Byron Lewis runs Lichfield Garden Centre, at
Curborough Countryside Centre,
Lichfield. Tel: 01543 254306, visit
www.lichfieldgardencentre.co.uk, and also find on
Facebook and Twitter.

15

Council’s Landmark
Cinema Agreement with Everyman
F
ollowing many months of hard work and negotiation, Lichfield
District Council is proud to announce that the operator of the
city’s highly anticipated cinema scheme will be Everyman. This
marks a significant milestone in the development of the
Birmingham Road Site and heralds a new era of entertainment
and leisure for the city of Lichfield.
Everyman, renowned for its commitment to delivering a unique and
immersive cinematic experience, selected Lichfield for its next location
and will soon become an integral part of the Three Spires shopping
centre, setting the stage to enhance the city's cultural landscape. This
exciting development is a gateway project launching the revitalisation
of the site and providing residents with a world-class cinema right in
the heart of Lichfield.
The scheme is being made possible through a joint venture
partnership formed between Lichfield District Council and Evolve
Estates, the owner of Three Spires shopping centre. Evolve’s vision and
tenacity has been vital in attracting this prestige cinema operator to the
city. It is also a testament to the cross-party support for the scheme at
Lichfield District Council.
The four-screen cinema will be complemented by 5 Food and
Beverage units, three on the ground floor, one on the first and one on
the second floor.
The arrival of an Everyman cinema is not only a testament to the
perseverance and dedication of Lichfield District Council but also an
exciting step toward enhancing the cultural and entertainment
landscape of Lichfield. This momentous partnership marks the
beginning of a new chapter for the city.
Win Three Months’ Gym
Membership at Energie Fitness
The moment you walk into Energie Fitness Lichfield, based at
Three Spires Shopping Centre, things feel different. From the
warm personal welcome you’ll get from the experienced team
to the state-of-the-art equipment you normally only get at pricey
gyms, Energie Fitness offers a unique blend of budget and
boutique – so you really feel like you belong!
We’ve teamed up with Energie Fitness to offer one ready the
chance to win a three-month membership, worth £100. To be in
with your chance of winning, simply correctly answer the
following question and send it in, along with your contact details.
Where is Energie Fitness Lichfield based?
a) Three Spires Shopping Centre
b) City Arcade
c) Tudor Row
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Energie
Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your entry to
Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by the closing
date of 22nd March 2024. One entry per household. Multiple entries will
be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must be 18 or over to
enter. All entrants’ information is processed in line with GDPR Data
Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy (available at
citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk). Full t&cs on page 50.
16

17

Entries Open
for C2C Run
The date for the 2024
Cathedral to Castle Run
(C2C) has been set for
Sunday 7thApril 2024.
The Cathedral to Castle
Run, a 10-mile multiterrain
run linking
Lichfield Cathedral to
Tamworth Castle, was
conceptualised by
Rotarians from Lichfield and Tamworth in 2016 as a
community event with fund-raising for local worthy causes.
It has been developed and organised by the four Rotary
clubs of Lichfield and Tamworth on a voluntary basis.
Starting with the first event in April 2017, it has been
held annually (except for 2020 when it was postponed due
to Covid restrictions) and has gone from strength-tostrength
gaining a good reputation for the multi-terrain
route, being well organised and having lots of encouraging
friendly marshals. It has been a friendly community event
enjoyed by thousands of runners and raised approximately
£80,000 for local charitable causes over the period 2017
to 2023.
Due to a combination of resource and cost factors, the
Rotary clubs have decided that the April 2023 Cathedral
to Castle Run will be the last one organised by Rotary.
However, Rotary is pleased that the Cathedral to Castle
Run will continue to take place organised by Seventeen43
Limited.
Gary Williams, owner of Seventeen43, has worked with
Rotary on the Cathedral to Castle Run for the past two
years and so there is hopefully a seamless continuity. The
event will continue to benefit the Rotary, thereby enabling
the continuation of important fund-raising for local
worthy causes.
Rotary thanks all the runners that have participated in
the Cathedral to Castle Run, all the volunteers that have
organised and marshalled the event with so much energy
and enthusiasm and all sponsors that have provided
valuable financial support to putting on the event.
Bookings can be made now at https://regevent.co.uk/
and there is also a link to the booking site from the
Cathedral to Castle Run website www.c2crun.co.uk.
Got a story or charity
event you want to share
with our readership? Think
you’ve snapped an image
that captures the spirit of
the region? We want to
hear from you!
Contact Citylife at
kristencitylife@gmail.com
18

19

Mothering
Sunday
By Lesley Smith, Curator of Tutbury Castle
The traditions of Mothering Sunday are
founded in the late Middle Ages, and not
the Victorian period, as many people
believe. It is quite distinct from Mother’s Day
in the USA, which has a different root to ours
in Britain. The American Mother’s Day was
invented in 1908 by a woman called Anna
Jarvis, in honour of her own mother, who had
died two years earlier. It takes place in May and
has no religious associations.
By contrast, Mothering Sunday began as a
religious festival and takes place on the fourth
Sunday of Lent. The beautiful cathedral at the
heart of our city would have been the focus of
this celebration of motherhood for hundreds of years, as you will
discover.
Lent was a pretty miserable and tough time for our ancestors, as they
withdrew from anything joyous, ate a frugal diet of the plainest food and
had absolutely no luxuries. It was, and still is, a time of reflection and
prayer, almost as if the country was in mourning, building up to the
greatest Christian festival of all – Easter.
It was not unusual for children as young at ten to join other
households as servants or farm workers during the Middle Ages and that
continued until the 19th century, when new laws came in to protect
children so young from being in the workplace, such as the mills and
down the mines.
So, at least as far back as the 16th century, the tradition of Mothering
Sunday was established for children and adults that had moved from their
homes and “Mother Churches”. This might be the church in which
someone was baptised, or the most important church in the area, which
in Lichfield would of course have been the cathedral. It was considered it
would be a great comfort to allow children to come home and visit their
mother and church, and to take part in a service in celebration of this
relationship. This would be particularly welcome in the middle of Lent,
and the fourth Sunday of Lent is also known as Refreshment Sunday,
when a little relaxation of the strict rules of Lent was permitted to help
people get through the rest of Lent to Easter.
Kinder households would supply bits of cloth and needle and thread so
some youngsters could spend their spare time making little gifts. This
tended to be a girl’s domain, but boys could make things too. I think it is
quite wrong to assume that all employers of children were brutish, cruel
creatures, as many provided food, shelter and small wages to youngsters
who frankly could not be kept at home as the family simply couldn’t feed
them. Many servants had medical treatment paid for by employers as if
their servants were part of their own families, and were cared for very
well indeed for many years. So be comforted, there are cases of
employers being hauled up in front of magistrates for not caring well for
a young servant and the youngster would be taken away and put with a
better, more caring family, sometimes the very family that brought the
case.
So, the children were allowed to go home, no doubt on a couple of
market carts in some cases or with a long walk ahead. After a wonderful
greeting, the whole family would go to their church and waiting for them
would be small bunches of flowers, such as daffodils, and each child would
collect posies for their mothers and bring it back to the pew for them. It
is a sweet custom and today it still happens as bunches of flowers wait
for the children each year to collect for their mothers.
The tradition of Mothering Sunday largely died out in Britain by the
end of the 19th century, probably at least in part because of the
increasing restrictions on child labour. It was revived following a campaign
in 1913 by a Nottinghamshire vicar's daughter called Constance Penwick
Smith. She was inspired in part by the success of the American Mother's
Day movement but felt that it was important to revive the traditional link
with the Church, and with Refreshment Sunday in the middle of Lent.
The traditional dish was simnel cake, and what a marvellous taste it
would be after all that frugal food. Simnel cakes are made from a
traditional dark fruit cake that has marzipan in two layers, one in the
middle of the fruit cake and one on the top like a yellow hat, that is
decorated with eleven balls of marzipan to represent the 12 apostles,
excluding Judas. Some people tie the cake with yellow ribbon and tiny
fluffy chicks or icing daisies, and these days it is often eaten at Easter
itself.
Simnel cake is eaten in many places and the French word “simenel” for
a cake dates back at least to the 13th century. It comes from the Latin
for ‘fine flour’ meaning the best type of baking. Different areas had their
own recipes and traditions, and long-established versions are known
from Shrewsbury, Devizes and Bury in Lancashire, of which the Bury
recipe is most commonly used today. You can still buy simnel cake in
some of the more creative bakers and supermarkets. Do look out for it
or perhaps have a go at making it yourself. Some people buy the fruit cake
and decorate it with yellow marzipan bought separately.
This festival is for everyone to enjoy and if you take your child or
mother to church this year, it is highly likely those flowers are waiting.
20

21

AWOL at The Hub
Cyril doesn’t like old people, which is a shame because he is
one. When he learns his estranged granddaughter, Lily, has
her big break with her thrash metal band, Abscess, he and his
friend Neville are determined to show up and support her.
Neither of them will ever be the same again.
AWOL is loosely based on a nearly true story. The show’s writer and
co-star Rob Gee explains: ‘It was a news item from Germany. It turned
out not to be true, but it inspired me to write a buddy movie-style
adventure caper with a positive message about ageing. It’s also a love
letter to metalheads.’
Described by the Victoria Times as ‘the missing link between theatre
and rock ’n’ roll, Rob Gee has performed over 100 fringe festivals
across the world and won over twenty awards for his solo shows,
including Best of Fest at Calgary, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Saskatoon
Fringe Festivals, Best International Show at Orlando Fringe and Fringe
Favourite and Limerick Fringe.
Co-star Stuart Reid has appeared in the West End production of The
Bodyguard and recently toured the UK with Heartbreak Productions’
Sense and Sensibility. Other theatre credits include the international
tour of Mamma Mia! and UK tours of Grease and Guys and Dolls.
AWOL is playing at The Hub on 20th March, with tickets priced at
£15 and available from www.thehubstmarys.co.uk or The Hub itself.
Please note: This production contains adult language and drug
references. Parental Guidance 16+.
J HOWELL &
DAUGHTERS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICHFIELD
LICHFIELD’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENT,
FAMILY RUN FUNERAL DIRECTORS.
SECOND GENERATION BUSINESS HERE TO ASSIST YOU
AND YOUR FAMILY.
24 hours a day
We are proud to be Lichfield's longest established family run funeral directors offering a wide range of
choices to suit all requirements. Horse drawn hearse, non religious ceremonies, floral tributes and
memorials are but a few of the services we offer.
Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.
For a truly personal service please call
22
01543 255776
Private Chapel of Rest 116 Netherstowe,
Lichfield, Staffs. WS13 6TS

Watch Our Story
23

Sugar: The Bitter Truth
By Wendy Hill
While sugar may not be labelled as a poison, its
excessive consumption is closely linked to a
myriad of chronic health conditions. But how well
do we really understand the role sugar plays in our bodies?
Are we even aware of the daily intake of sugars from our
foods and drinks? Delve into this article to uncover the
truths about sugar and its effects on our well-being.
How does sugar affect our health?
Your body breaks down foods into glucose, and it uses glucose as
a primary source of energy. Sugar in our diet is quickly broken
down into glucose, however it also breaks down other food
sources into glucose such as simple carbohydrates, vegetable and
fruits and even protein. The simple way to think about it is that
the less complex the food, the more processed it is, or the more
sugar it contains the quicker it will be converted to glucose.
When everything is working correctly, insulin then shuttles
glucose into our cells, or and it can store some in our muscles
and liver, ready for use when we need energy. However, if we are
eating foods that are quickly converted into glucose or a diet that
predominantly contains these foods, it has an impact on our
insulin levels. This results in two outcome that can seriously affect
our health:
1. Insulin resistance - This is the technical term used when our
body no longer reacts to insulin correctly. If we are eating lots of
processed or sugar laden foods then our body is constantly being
asked to produce insulin to help shuttle it into our liver and
muscles. But after a while your body starts to get used to the
insulin and it does not react correctly. You try to produce more,
which can help, but it will often lead to excess sugar in the blood,
pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes and even chronic liver disease.
2. Increase in fat - When you have stored as much glucose as you
can in your muscles and your liver your body will immediately
turn the excess into fat. And it stores this firstly around the
middle.
The Pros and Cons of Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners have been around for over a century, but it
wasn't until the late 1950s that they were regularly added to
foods, the idea being that they are calorie-free and so could be
enjoyed guilt-free. Yet if you look back at photos from the 1960s
compared to now it’s clear we are getting progressively fatter as
a nation. So, what went wrong?
Our bodies have a complex relationship with food, and when it
tastes sweet food it is expecting both calories and foods that it
can convert to glucose. We now believe that the absence of any
real nutrients has been driving us to over consume calories in
search of that promised energy.
Is hidden sugar driving our need for sweet foods?
When you eat a lot of sugar your tastebuds become dulled to the
sweetness. However, once you cut out unnecessary added sugar
and sweeteners for a few weeks it's amazing how quickly your
tastebuds reset. Foods that you used to consume on a regular
basis will taste over sweet and artificial, and you will rediscover
the wonderful natural sweetness of real fruit.
It is recommended that we don’t eat more than 30g of sugar a
day, yet the average UK adult is consuming closer to 100g. If you
are eating a chocolate bar or a sweet you know that you are
eating a sugar food. But what you might not realise is where sugar
is hiding in some foods that you might have thought as healthy:
• Seeded brown bread - around 1.7g per slice
• Fruit yoghurt - around 12g per pot
• Breakfast fibre bar - around 7g per bar
• Tomato Soup - around 20g
• Chilli Sauce Jar - around 25g per jar
Shocking isn’t it?
Reset your Tastebuds & Get Label Savvy
It is possible to reset your tastebuds and I would recommend
starting with checking the ingredients labels of the foods that you
are eating. The ingredients are listed in order of volume: if your
healthy fruit yoghurt has sugar listed before berries, it has more
added sugar than real fruit.
Food companies often employ sneaky tactics when listing
ingredients. Keep an eye out for anything ending in '-ose' or
labelled as syrup; these are just different names for sugar. So, if
your label reads 'sugar,' 'glucose,' and 'corn syrup,' that's
essentially three types of sugar packed into one meal!
Generally, the less processed the food the less chance there is for
added sugar or sweeteners. So, try buying plain yoghurt and
adding your own fruit to it. And instead of buying a chilli sauce
add passata and some chilli seasoning to your mince for a sugarfree
alternative.
It's time to take back control - you decide what goes into your
shopping basket and we can significantly reduce the amount of
sugar by abandoning brands that add sugar unnecessarily to our
food.
*Wendy Hill is a Nutritional Therapist, Nutrigenomics
Practitioner, public speaker, yoga teacher, and health coach.
With a wealth of expertise in these fields, she delivers insightful
presentations to groups on topics including health, longevity, and
menopause.
You can find Wendy on podcast and social media as Fab
Female Nutrition or contact her at wendy@hillstart.me.uk.
24

25

Bids fly in for WW1 era propeller
By Alex Keller, Richard Winterton Auctioneers
A First World War era aeroplane propeller has
flown again – at auction.
The impressive wooden airscrew, measuring
approximately 240cm tip to tip, was sold by Richard
Winterton Auctioneers for £1,050.
More than a century ago, the prop would have been
fitted to a British SES 61 aircraft with a Hispano-Suiza
150 HP engine using a two-blade airscrew.
This type of craft was widely used on the Western
Front from 1916 to the end of WW1.
Various companies made the propellers, which
were also used on American, Canadian and Australian
planes.
Auctioneer Ben Winterton said: “Items such as this
come up very rarely. We had lots of interest in the
auction and this propeller which once flew the skies
sold for a fittingly high price to a UK bidder.”
The same sale saw an impressive family archive with
links to Lichfield go under the hammer for £1,600.
Running from the late 17th to the mid-20th
century, the archive included documents, medals,
badges, crests, photographs, birth, marriage and death
certificates, wills and other ephemera relating largely
to the Gibbons Mayne and Davis/Hancock families.
The majority related to the families of Reverend
William Gibbons Mayne the younger (1860-1928) and
his wife Helen, including Rev Gibbons Mayne’s
Lichfield Cathedral ordination documents as priest
and deacon dated 1885 and 1886.
Senior valuer Sarah Williams said: “This was a
fascinating archive to catalogue because it
encompassed such a wide spectrum of different areas
of collecting, from photography and silhouette
portraiture to early military documents and travel
papers.”
Richard Winterton Auctioneers offers free
valuations of medals and militaria with specialist Jeff
Clark at The Lichfield Auction Centre, Wood End
Lane, Fradley Park. To make an appointment,
telephone 01543 251081 or email
office@richardwinterton.co.uk.
Free home visits for large collections and house
clearance quotations are also available.
Visit www.richardwinterton.co.uk.
Auctioneer Ben Winterton with the WW1 era
aeroplane propeller.
This family archive running from the late
17th to the mid-20th century sold for
£1,600.

28

29

Here at Just Granite Ltd, we pride ourselves on being the experts for any worktop needs you may have.
Be it a beautiful bespoke and unique kitchen worktop, a bar, bathroom or even a barbecue area, we have
an extensive in-house range ready to be chosen by you! We stock a varied range, in a variety of materials,
such as our own competitively priced quartz, granite, marble and porcelain, as well as all the top brands
from around the world.
There really is no reason to go anywhere else!
Win a Granite Chopping Board
If you require our services please do not hesitate
to call us on 01785 711096 or email your quote
request to stef@justgranite.ltd.uk
With the largest variety of natural stones in the Midlands, the
solid slabs are kept on-site and are available for a virtual viewing
from 9am-5pm on Monday to Friday. Located at The Stone
Works, Pillaton Hall Farm, Penkridge, ST19 5RZ.
We’ve got a bespoke Chopping Board (in the
colour of your choice) to give away! To be in
with a chance of winning this magnificent prize,
simply answer the following question correctly:
Where does the supply
of granite come from?
a) Spain
b) Italy
c) Germany
To enter, just send your name, contact details and answer to Just
Granite Competition at competitioncitylife@gmail.com or post your
entry to Citylife in Lichfield Ltd, PO Box 7126, Lichfield WS14 4JS by
the closing date of 18th May 2023 One entry per household. Multiple
entries will be disqualified. No cash equivalent. Please note you must
be 18 or over to enter. All entrants’ information is processed in line
with GDPR Data Protection Regulations and our Privacy Policy
(available at citylifeinlichfieldltd.co.uk).
Full t&cs on page 50.
30

31

Rustic Dining with a Twist!
By Kristen Lackajis
Alittle-known secret situated on the outskirts of Lichfield, The Meynell Ingram Arms at Hoar Cross
is so much more than just a country pub… we were delighted to be invited to take a look around
and experience the venue for ourselves!
Amongst the rolling Staffordshire countryside, The Meynell Ingram Arms combines delicious, quality food with
rustic ambience. Beautifully decorated, taking into account the original period features, the pub boasts oak beams,
luxurious furnishings, and a roaring fire – the perfect place for a spot of lunch on a chilly February afternoon!
After being seated near the window, with the winter sun blazing through, we perused the extensive menu and were delighted to find a mixture
of traditional pub classics and more modern cuisine, as well as a range of high-end steak options, such as chateaubriand for two (ideal for a special
occasion).
We opted for starters of the Asian-influenced Sticky Beef Salad served with a Thai salad consisting of sesame dressing, chilli, spring onion,
coriander and lime, along with Hummus & Flatbread made from
roasted red pepper, pomegranate pearls, toasted seeds and a warm
flatbread with oil. Not only were these both absolutely delicious,
but they whet our appetite for what was in store next – the main
course!
Being a seafood lover, and after a hearty recommendation from
the pub’s manager, I chose the Crab Linguine, and what a delight!
Shredded crab mixed with fresh pasta and lovingly enveloped in a
white wine, tomato, cream, garlic and chilli sauce – the crab taste
was subtle, but thoroughly divine and highly recommended for
those who don’t like overly fishy flavours. My partner had the more
traditional fayre of Fish & Chips and was astounded with her
whopper of a beer battered haddock, which came with chunky
chips, garden peas and tartare sauce… we also couldn’t resist the
sound of the Truffled Fries which were cooked with white truffle
oil and Old Winchester cheese! Needless to say, not a morsel was
left on our plates as we devoured the lot!
If you’ve not experienced The Meynell Ingram Arms before, you
may not know that it also serves as a venue for special occasions,
with a private dining area that is available for hire for larger parties,
featuring its own bar and kitchen area that is separate to the main
dining section of the building. A large redesigned outdoor seating
area is also available, again with its own bar, and there are several
outdoor dining ‘pods’ situated in the grounds too, for a more
intimate and cosy dining experience for you and your guests,
whatever the weather!
So, if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a hearty meal with
a premium twist, The Meynell Ingram Arms is certainly one to add
to your list!
32
Find out more at www.meynelingram.com or visit the
pub at Abbots Bromley Road, Hoar Cross, DE13 8RB.

Enjoy Yourself
& Get Fit!
By Ed Watson
Unfortunately, lack of physical activity is a major
cause of obesity and poor health. Yet it’s easy for
most people to do something about it. According
to England’s Chief Officer of Health:
“If a medication existed which had a similar
effect to physical activity like walking, it would be
regarded as a wonder drug or miracle cure.”
One of the good things about walking is that not
only can it help to keep you fit; it is easily
affordable. If you want to get out and about
exploring the English countryside, all you need is a
good pair of waterproof walking boots and some
weatherproof clothing. If you intend to get off the
beaten track for a few hours, a small rucksack is
also useful.
Of course, you can go out walking on your own,
but walking with a group is much better for your
social life. By doing an activity you all enjoy, you’re
likely to meet like-minded people with whom
you’ll get on well, have a laugh with and end up
making long-lasting friendships. What’s more,
whilst walking is an inherently safe activity, in the
unlikely event of an accident happening or you
getting injured whilst out on a walk it’s always
better to be in a group – preferably with someone
who knows first aid and has navigation or map
reading skills.
Perhaps the safest bet locally is to join the
Tamworth and Lichfield Ramblers. Part of the
well-established national walking charity The
Ramblers Association, the Lichfield Group
organises walks every Sunday, where a group of
people will enjoy a walk in the English countryside
over a three, four or five hour period (including
coffee and packed lunch stops).
What’s more, some of their walks are dogfriendly
– as long as the dog is kept on a lead.
For more information, including a list of future
walks, you can view the website at
www.tamworthandlichfieldandramblers.org. Why
not give it a try?
33

Paul Martyn
A beautiful selection of jewellery boxes,
such as this ‘Cerys’ model (priced at
£116), are available from Paul Martyn,
located at Heart of the Country
Shopping Village, Swinfen, WS14 9QR.
Tel: 01543 481592.
www.paulmartyninteriors.co.uk
Allen Brown Jewellery
18ct yellow gold pink sapphire stud
earrings priced at £1590 from Allen
Brown Jewellery located at Heart of the
Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, WS14
9QR. Tel: 01543 481 948.
www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk
City Jewellers
This Georg Jensen Silver Cuff bracelet
will certainly make Mum feel special.
Priced at £995 and available from
City Jewellers, Bore Street, Lichfield.
www.cityjewellers.co.uk
Paul Martyn
Treat your Mum to this gorgeous
fused glass kitten.
Also available with lilac hearts from Paul
Martyn Furniture, Heart of the Country,
Swinfen, WS14 9QR.
Tel: 01543 481592.
www.paulmartyninteriors.co.uk
Mother’s
Day Gift
Guide
If you’re after a gift for Mum then
look no further - we've put together
a few of our favourite items from
local retailers, artisans and
producers to ensure that Mother's
Day is extra special this year.
The Little Wool Shop
This owl knitting bag features include a
hole to feed wool through to prevent
snags, a zip pocket along the length to
secure knitting needles, and a generous
storage section for wool. Available from18
Upper Brook Street, Rugeley.
Tel: 01889 570 500.
www.thelittlewoolshop.co.uk
34
Allen Brown Jewellery
Silver, gold plated tourmaline pendant.
Priced at £276 and available from Allen
Brown Jewellery located at Heart of the
Country Shopping Village, Swinfen, WS14
9QR. Tel: 01543 481 948.
www.allenbrownjewellery.co.uk
ES Jewellery
The power of motherly love shines bright in
this Pandora Mum Double Dangle Charm.
Featuring a 14k gold-plated entwined heart
motif on a heart-shaped disc, along with a
sparkling lab-grown diamond. A heartfelt
engraving reads "Mum you are so precious to
me." Priced at £60. Discover the new Pandora
collection at ES Jewellery, Tamworth Street.
www.esjewelery.co.uk
Pizza By Goli
Treat your Mum with a voucher for a meal at
the superb Pizza By Goli Italian Restaurant in
Lichfield. Open lunchtimes and evenings. Full
menu available.
Book now at 63Tamworth Street, Lichfield.
Tel: 01543 250916.
www.pizzabygolilichfield.co.uk

35

Five Minutes
With… Rosie Tee
In recognition of International Women’s Day on 8th
March, local singer songwriter Rosie Tee is joined by
two prominent lady artists as they celebrate all things
female!
• To begin with, could you tell us a little bit about
yourself. For example, are you are local? If not, where
do you come from?
Hi, I'm Rosie Tee, a local composer, performer, and event producer from
Burntwood. After exploring Lichfield's music scene during my teenage years, I
moved to Birmingham for university. Now based in South Birmingham, I'm
excited about the thriving creative scene here.
I've curated events at Sandfields Pumping Station and will perform live
electronic songs in Lichfield on 8th March for International Women's Day with
Lichfield Arts.
Joining me are Emily Galvin-Wilson, former Poet Laureate of Staffordshire,
and Emily Alice, an independent singer-songwriter from Lichfield, who splits
her time between Lichfield and Nottingham for university. Together, we
showcase the vibrant artistic spirit of our local community.
• Can you tell us, in your own words, what it is you do?
Absolutely! I'm a versatile artist involved in various aspects of music. I
compose and perform dreamy psychedelic avant-pop with my four-piece band,
and I'm excited about my upcoming solo mini-album 'Night Creature' releasing
on 26th April, accompanied by a UK tour. I also create atmospheric music for
installations and occasionally compose for orchestras. As an independent
artist, I handle all aspects of my music, including co-founding Kikimora
Records, a DIY label.
Emily is a passionate poet, workshop facilitator, and curator of spoken word
events across the Midlands. She collaborates with organizations to spread love
for poetry.
Emily Alice, an independent singer-songwriter, loves the songwriting process
and performing live in Lichfield, Notts, and nearby areas. Balancing this with
university studies, she feels fortunate to call music her job. Together, we
contribute to the vibrant artistic landscape with our unique talents.
• How did you get into the industry? Has this always been a passion of
yours?
seriously around 2015 and became Staffordshire Poet Laureate in 2017, taking
her work across the county.
Emily Alice began playing guitar at age 7, leading to a love for singing and
songwriting. Her journey took a significant turn at 13 when she wrote her first
song for a pre-GCSE music exam. Encouragement from her GCSE music
teacher and a successful Facebook clip led to her first paid gig at Lichfield
Grub Club at age 14, solidifying her passion for music.
• Which artists inspire and influence you the most, both growing up and
now?
My inspirations are diverse and rooted in my upbringing, drawing from
immediate female role models like my musician mom and friends. Artists such
as Laura Mvula and Anna Meredith, who seamlessly blend genres, have been
influential. Recently, I've found inspiration in Broadcast, a Birmingham-based
band, particularly Trish Keenan's psychedelic synths and mesmerizing
songwriting. The common thread in my influences is their ability to transcend
genres and disciplines.
For Emily Alice, growing up with Fleetwood Mac, Tori Amos, and Alanis
Morissette has left a lasting impact. Currently, her music is influenced by
90s/early 2000s artists like Morissette and The Corrs, shaping her acousticpop
style.
• How important do you feel that music as an art form is to society?
Music is essential to society, serving as the emotional soundtrack to our
lives. Its value as a communicative tool is invaluable, making the world more
vibrant. Emily, the poet, emphasizes the crucial role of creativity in shaping our
thoughts and well-being. Emily Alice highlights the significance of music as a
massive art form, providing happiness and comfort through life's experiences,
enriching society with its diverse artistic perceptions.
• And finally, Lichfield holds a special place in the hearts of many. What
does the City mean to you?
Lichfield is my springboard, shaping who I am today. It's where I met
collaborators, gained gigging experience, and had my first job. Emily, the poet,
finds the city's tangible history and culture fascinating, taking pride in growing
up here.
For Emily Alice, Lichfield is home. With deep family connections, including
her parents' marriage in the Cathedral and her first live gig, the city holds
significant meaning and countless incredible memories.
Lichfield Arts is celebrating 'International Women's Day' with a concert on Friday
8th March 7.30pm at the Guildhall with upcoming female artists to celebrate. Book
tickets here at www.ticketsource.co.uk/lichfieldarts.
My musical journey began in a
household saturated with
constant music, thanks to my
musician parents. A turning point
at my parent's piano led me to
choose composition over playing
others' music. This passion led
me to study Composition, and
I've built a lifestyle and
community around it. My love
for music expanded into creating
immersive events, and I'm now
involved with Kikimora Records,
producing vibrant, multidisciplinary
shows.
36
Emily, the poet, started writing

37

The Month in
Pictures
We take a look at the events and
activities over the last month, bringing
you a round-up of the city in
pictures...
Our Editor, Krissy, with David from The
Dental Barns outside Lichfield Cathedral.
Cllrs Di Evans & Darren Ennis with Rob
Fitzmaurice from Midland Plumbing Supplies
& the first cycle rack installation at Ryecroft
Shops, Burntwood.
Krissy Lackajis, Richard Carty, Tom Roberts, Sarah Clark & Dave Hardy
at the World Cancer Day Coffee Morning, at Druids Heath Golf Club,
hosted by The Stan Bowley Trust.
Despite the rain, Lichfield Market was as
busy as ever in February!
Participants in the mascot's race at the Pancake Day
Races on Shrove Tuesday (photo by Robert Yardley).
Lichfield dignitaries at the annual Pancake
Day Races on Shrove Tuesday this year (photo
by Robert Yardley).
Burntwood based Haywoods Contracts Ltd
won the Small Business of the Year for
Lichfield, as part of the Greater Birmingham
Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
Breslins Networking Event at The Angel, Lichfield
The Good Health Club walking group presents a cheque for £1,000 to St Giles Hospice.
38

39

Tastes of the Season
By Simon Smith
Mother’s Day
Another month of special events with Mother’s Day and Easter coming
up. A good time for florists, card shops and catering but a stress for those
trying to think what to do for the family.
A time to show appreciation to mothers for all they have done and give
them a day off while the tables are reversed. Even the slightest gesture
means a lot but for those who spend their lives feeding a family it’s a real
treat to have a meal cooked for them. I have done a recipe that’s easy for
the younger family members to do (supervised of course). It’s a lovely
way for them to have a go in the kitchen and, if they wash up as well, that’s
a real bonus!
4ozs unsalted butter
2tbsp caster sugar
Pinch of cinnamon
1 punnet blueberries
4ozs grated chocolate
Method
Put the blueberries in a pan with 2 tbsp water and
some maple syrup and bring to a simmer.
Whisk the milk and eggs together in a bowl. Drop the bread into the
mixture and leave to soak for a minute or two. Heat half the butter in a
non-stick frying pan and put the bead slices in, cook on both sides for two
minutes or until golden. Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a bowl ready to
sprinkle on the top. Plate the toast on a warm plate, top with the warm
blueberries and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar. Finish with the grated
chocolate and for an additional indulgence add a large dollop of clotted
cream., Book a blood test the following day to check your cholesterol
levels.
For an Easter recipe I have also done a simple recipe which, when I cook
at demonstrations, is always a favourite during the tasting afterwards. It’s
not all about the chocolate although it does get a part to play.
Coming up to spring now is a good time to start thinking about home
grown produce. Whether you have a large plot or a windowsill there is
always something that can be grown both to eat and also show the little
ones how nature works. Many things can be regrown rather than thrown
away. The base of a head of celery can be put into a glass of water and
within days will start to shoot again. Little pots of herbs, once used, can
be put into a saucer of water and allowed to regrow as long as they are
kept in the light and topped up with water. It’s also a good time of year
to start planning your planting so you can have fresh herbs and tomatoes
by the BBQ which both look lovely and are convenient to pick at the last
minute. With budgets being tight any money that can be saved is always a
good thing.
Shopping around makes a huge difference both for quality and price.
Seasonal food always works out cheaper and reduces the carbon
footprint. The best value for miles around is from Jake Smith on Lichfield
market fruit and veg stall on a Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. His prices are
the lowest for miles around and the quality is superb.
Congratulations to Tom Shepherd for retaining his Michelin Star and flying
the flag for Lichfield, and Liam Dillon at The Boat for his listing once more.
We are lucky to have such a diverse dining scene in Lichfield with food
from around the world. Catering is a hard business and these days, with
staff shortages, energy price increases, and food costs on the rise, I feel
for those who battle daily to satisfy customers.
Chocolate Pots
200gms dark chocolate
250gms double cream
100gms caster sugar
50gms butter
Vanilla paste
Zest of 1 orange
Method
Put all the ingredients in a glass or steel bowl and sit on a small pan of
simmering water. Make sure the bowl is much bigger than the pan so the
steam doesn’t burn you. Stir occasionally until all the ingredients are
melted together. Pour into small pots and decorate with fresh raspberries
and chopped pistachios. Alternatively allow to set in the bowl and them
scoop out small balls and roll in chopped nuts for truffles. Great fun for
the little ones but can be very messy!
I am still available to cater for dinner parties,
barbecues buffets and corporate catering and can be
reached on simonsmith57@icloud.com. Alternatively,
visit www.simonsmith-chef.com for further
information.
French Toast with Blueberries
& Chocolate (eggy bread!)
4ozs milk
4 free range eggs
4 slices either brioche or your favourite bread

Council
Shortlisted
for Award
Lichfield District Council’s commitment to
become a better council, through an
ambitious programme of change
implemented in 2021, has been recognised in
a shortlisting for a prestigious local
government award.
The council is among a handful of
authorities to feature in the ‘Most Improved
Council’ category at the LGC Awards 2024.
These annual awards, which seek to identify,
showcase, and celebrate the finest examples
of innovation and quality delivered daily by
councils, always receive a high number of
entries.
In 2021 the council set out to create a
more confident, engaged, and capable
workforce and challenge old-fashioned
working practices to enable improvements in
services to residents. It is this that has been
recognised by the awarding body.
Examples of the changes this has resulted in
include significantly improved leisure centres
in Lichfield and Burntwood, investing £10m in
a new leisure centre and £5m in a joint
venture to bring Everyman cinemas to the
district, £1m allocated so far this year through
the Disabled Facilities Grants, significantly
more than in the previous five years, and
achieving £1.7million of cashable savings
helping to keep council tax low compared to
neighbouring authorities.
The winners will be announced at a special
awards ceremony at Grosvenor House hotel
in London on Wednesday 12th June.
41

Eleanor Lettice
Curtis
“That Magnificent Woman in
her Flying Machines”
By Lyn Tyler
Eleanor Lettice Curtis was born in Devon in 1915. She came
from a wealthy, privileged background. After studying
Mathematics at St Hilda’s College, Oxford, one of the few
women to do so, she decided to learn how to fly which she
described as being “infinitely more preferable than sitting behind
a desk.”
In 1937, she joined Yapton Flying Club in Ford, West Sussex, and
obtained her pilot’s license in the same year! She also gained her
commercial pilot’s license with her first commercial job being with CL
Air Services where she took aerial photographs for mapping purposes.
She then moved on to working in the Ordinance Survey Research
Department.
Having purchased her own aircraft, in her spare time she took part in
various air races which were popular at the time. However, Lettice, as
she preferred to be called, was living through dangerous times. It was
clear by the late 1930s that war with Germany was probable.
Incredible developments had been made in aviation since the First
World War and it was obvious that air warfare would be crucial in any
future conflict. The civilian population would also be targeted and
airfields were therefore quickly constructed throughout the country.
In Lichfield, construction began in 1938 at Fradley, just a few miles
from the centre of the city. Always referred to locally as Fradley
Aerodrome, it became officially known as RAF Lichfield and was no
ordinary airbase. It was to become the busiest and most important one
in the whole of the West Midlands. Initially, the site of a maintenance
unit (MU 51) it also became an Operational Training Unit (27 OTU)
where young men came from all corners of the Commonwealth to
learn to fly together as bomber crews, with the majority of them
coming from Australia.
In 1941, Lettice also became directly involved in the war when she
joined the Air Transport Auxiliary. It was a civilian organisation and
initially only male pilots were asked to join. They were usually men who
had flown during the First World War but who were now too old for
military service. They acted as ferry pilots delivering battle damaged
aircraft from squadrons to maintenance units to be quickly repaired and
flown back, battle ready. They also collected new aircraft to be checked
and fitted out internally, before being flown on to squadrons around the
country. The problem was there were not enough pilots to meet the
demands. So, after much deliberation on the part of the government,
women were asked to join as well.
They responded enthusiastically and 163 female pilots were recruited.
It was extremely dangerous. They flew in all weathers, were unarmed
and would have been an easy target for enemy aircraft. They had no
radios and often had to find their way from the identification of
42
landmarks, or by following rivers
or railway lines, which in bad
weather often proved to be almost
impossible. They had to learn to fly
different types of aircraft, the only
guidance being a small booklet
entitled “Ferry Pilots Notes”.
Lettice began by delivering
smaller aircraft, such as Tiger
Moths, which were used for
training purposes, but such were
her flying skills that she quickly
graduated to flying all categories and was the first woman to qualify to
fly the four engine heavy bombers like the Halifax and Lancasters.
Whilst she was a frequent visitor to RAF Lichfield, it was still
considered unusual for a woman to fly. Lettice often told the story of
landing a damaged Wellington bomber at one particular airfield and, on
climbing out of the aircraft, she saw the shock on the faces of the
ground crew, who asked were the pilot was. When she explained that
she was flying solo, they would not believe her and insisted on looking
inside the bomber just to check!
After the war, she had a very successful career as an Aeronautical
Engineer, which was a spectacular achievement for a woman at that
time. She worked as a technician and flight test observer, at the military
establishment at Boscombe Down. She then moved to Fairey Aviation,
where she held the post of Senior Flight Engineer.
Lettice was a founder member of the British Women Pilots
Association and took an active part in air races, establishing a new
international women’s record for 100 kilometres on a closed circuit,
doing 313.07 mph. In October 1992, she even qualified to fly helicopters
and continued flying in her retirement. However, at the age of 81, she
voluntarily grounded herself and gave up flying. She died in July 2014 at
the age of 99.
She was a pioneering female pilot, aeronautical engineer, and arguably,
the most talented female pilot of the Second World War.

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44

What’s On
Promote your event in our What’s On guide and reach over 16,000
homes and businesses for only £20 for businesses and £10 for charities.
Entries must be 50 words maximum. To book contact Rebecca Hill
07970 513144 rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com
Please clearly mark your email ‘What’s On Lichfield'.
Wednesday 20th March
Tommy Blaize
Time: 10am – 4pm (exhibitors
arrive by 9.30am),
Thursday 18th April
Taster for Rusty French
Beginners
Tommy Blaize has one of the most
recognisable voices in the UK. As
the lead singer on Strictly Come
Dancing for 20 glorious years, he’s
sung live each week to up to 12
million people. And in a remarkable
career spanning 50 years, he’s
worked with some of the world’s
most legendary artists, from Diana
Ross to Queen, from The Beach
Boys to Amy Winehouse, and from
Stevie Wonder to Robbie Williams.
Venue: Tamworth Assembly Rooms
Time: 7.30pm
For information:
www.tamworthassemblyrooms.co.
uk or tel: 01827 709618.
Saturday 23rd March
The Real Thing
Seventies sensation The Real Thing
with original vocalists Chris Amoo
and Dave Smith are on tour
promoting their first new album of
original material in 44 years ‘A
Brand New Day.’
Venue: Tamworth Assembly Rooms
Time: 7.30pm
46
For information:
www.tamworthassemblyrooms.co.
uk or tel: 01827 709618.
Friday 29th March
The Coral
The Coral is celebrating the 21st
anniversary of its eponymous
debut album. The record was
described by NME as being the
funniest and most refreshing
British debut in years. In this
intimate evening, singer and
songwriter James Skelly will be
joined by keyboardist Nick Power
for an evening of conversation,
audience questions and acoustic
songs.
Venue: The Garrick Theatre
Time: 7.30pm
Visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com to
book.
Sunday 7th April
Hammerwich Pre-War Car
Gathering
Open to pre-war cars only. Free to
attend but exhibitors need to
register by phone on 07850
799791 or email at
klaxonhoard@gmail.com.
Donations to Burntwood Lions
charity will be most welcome.
Venue: Hammerwich Cricket Club,
Burntwood, WS7 0JQ.
Course continues on following
Thursday for nine more weeks if
you enrol.
Venue: The Bull’s Head, Shenstone
Time: 10am-11.30am
Price: £20
Contact sharon@languageforfun.uk
or mariagrazia@languageforfun.uk
to book or for further information.
Word Perfect Creative
Writing
A weekly Lichfield group for new
and experienced writers. Explore
poetry, fiction, drama and nonfiction.
Identify the strengths of
your work and learn new
techniques in a friendly and
supportive atmosphere. Each
session is designed to help you
become the writer you want to be.
Session dates & times: Wednesday
evening 7pm till 9pm. Friday
morning 11am till 1pm. Friday
afternoon 2pm till 4pm.
Price: £10 per session. All materials
included. No need to block book
and you only pay for the sessions
you attend.
For more information or to book a
free taster session contact Joss on
07833 735048 or at
wordperfectcreativewriting@gmail.com

HELP Appeal Funds
Helipads & Hangar
The HELP Appeal has donated
£2.5 million to fund two helipads
and an enclosed hangar space
constructed at Midlands Air
Ambulance Charity’s new airbase
and headquarters in Shifnal on the
Shropshire/Staffordshire border.
The HELP Appeal, operated by County Air Ambulance
Trust, distributes grants to fund helipads at hospitals and at
air ambulance airbases across the UK. The organisation
agreed to fund the two helipads and hangar in 2018, the
construction of which was completed early summer 2023.
Since Midlands Air Ambulance Charity moved its
operations from RAF Cosford to the new facility in August
2023, the helipads have enabled the service’s helicopter to
take off on more than 180 vitally important air ambulance
missions.
To support the HELP Appeal’s work, visit:
helpappeal.org.uk.
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48

Award for
Local Bridal
Boutique
Luxury bridal
boutique, The Real
Wedding Collective
based on Greenhill,
Lichfield, was the
recent winner of the
prestigious Hitched
Wedding Awards 2024
and named Bridalwear
Shop of the Year
Staffordshire.
Property of the Month
....................................
Mosley Croft, Dovelea, Rolleston-on-
Dove £650,000
Mosley Croft is a deceptively
spacious five bedroom family
home set against a backdrop of
open fields and situated on a
generous corner plot within a
secluded private drive. Located
right in the heart of the village,
this distinguished home boasts expansive family accommodation extending to
over 2500 square feet and briefly comprises: entrance hall, impressive lounge,
conservatory, snug/study, imposing kitchen/diner with large kitchen area,
dining area and garden room, utility and guest cloakroom. To the first floor
there are five double bedrooms, two with ensuite facilities and a family
bathroom.
Beyond the imposing facade, the generously proportioned and thoughtfully
laid out interior caters perfectly for the needs of a growing family that values
both comfort and functionality. Noteworthy is the thoughtful design that
accommodates the demands of contemporary living, providing ample room
for work-from-home setups.
Its appeal is further heightened by the secluded corner plot gardens,
providing a tranquil retreat and a place to unwind whilst enjoying the beauty
of open countryside. The view extends towards the village Church spire which
completes the picturesque setting that adds to the charm of Mosley Croft and
provides an ideal environment for a family wishing to enjoy all aspects of
village life.
Rebecca Adams In Partnership with The Property Experts
E: rebecca@thepropertyexperts.co.uk.P: 07715 763563
Owners Sadie and Carrie boast years of
experience in the wedding industry and have
helped fashion-forward brides choose the perfect
gown for their wedding celebration. They pride
themselves on providing a fun and relaxed
environment and work closely with each bride to
help them feel beautiful, confident, and
comfortable for their walk down the aisle.
Visit www.therealweddingcollective.com for
more.
49

CLASSIFIED
To Advertise call:-
Steve Brown 07740 166497
stevebrowncitylife@gmail.com
Rebecca Hill 07970 513144
rebeccahillcitylife@gmail.com
Mike James 07900 982456
mikejamescitylife@gmail.com
MAGAZINE
DISTRIBUTORS
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Earn extra money delivering
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Must be over 16 and reliable,
call Rebecca
07970 513144
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