Lichfield News – Half-Term Oct 2014

Holiday fun offered this autumn half term

From roller skating discos and pool fun sessions to a holiday club and a Halloween trail, Lichfield District Council’s Holiday Fun programme is packed with plenty of energetic activities to keep young people entertained this autumn half term.
Keep children active at Burntwood Leisure Centre’s Fit and Fun Club, which is jam packed with arts and crafts, games, sports and swimming. For budding sport stars and athletes there’s also Sports Camp at Friary Grange Leisure Centre, which is the perfect opportunity to develop new skills and techniques.

Trainee instructors, who are on the ASA Level 2 certificate in teaching aquatics course, will be leading a week of cut price swimming lessons at Friary Grange, whilst being supervised by a tutor. These budget classes are the perfect way for children of all levels to gain confidence in the water and improve.

Don’t miss the Aquascramble Pool Inflatable sessions at Burntwood and Friary Grange leisure centres, or a Family Fun pool session on Sunday 2 November at Friary Grange, great fun for the family.

For any aspiring actors there is Friary Grange’s Drama Workshop, running on Monday 28 and Tuesday 29 October. Crammed with games and activities, the group will learn acting skills that will boost their confidence, and discover Shakespeare in an easy and approachable way.

Beacon Park also has lots going on every day of the half term holiday, starting with the Halloween Puzzle Trail available from the Ranger Station. For only £1, families can follow the colourful trail around the historic park to solve clues and claim a small prize.

The fun continues with a Feed the Birds drop-in workshop in the Discovery Hub on Saturday 25 October, to create a bird feeder out of pine cones and seeds to help the birds survive the winter.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the special Rapid Round Golf offer available Monday to Friday in the park. Ideal for beginners and young players, the nine-hole round of golf at a reduced price is a great introduction to the game.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “With swimming, sports sessions, creative workshops, park activities and more, there’s plenty for children and young people to do this half term.

“To avoid disappointment, we’re encouraging families to look at the full programme and book as soon as possible. Plus, on certain activities at the Friary Grange Leisure Centre we have an early bird offer, so it really does pay to book early.”

To see the full programme of half term activities, please visit http://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun

To find out more, or to book any of the courses or activities that are running at the leisure centres, please call Burntwood Leisure Centre on 01543 308810, Friary Grange Leisure Centre on 01543 308842, or Beacon Park on 01543 308867.

Make the most of half term at Beacon Park

Published on Thursday, 9th October 2014
With lots of activities, including spooky fun, families are being encouraged to head to Beacon Park in Lichfield this autumn half term.
The fun begins with a spooky Halloween Puzzle Trail, which will lead families around a section of the beautiful park, seeking clues and solving puzzles on the way. Once the trail is complete, there is a small prize at the end.
The Halloween Puzzle Trail will be available from Beacon Park’s Ranger Station (the kiosk next to the crazy golf course) from Saturday 25 October to Sunday 2 November, between 10am and 3pm, and costs £1 for each trail.
Another enjoyable half term activity is a Feed the Birds drop-in workshop on Saturday 25 October. For only £1 a feeder, participants will make a feeder from pine cones and seeds and learn how to help the birds survive the cold winter.
A representative from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust will also be on hand to answer questions about wildlife and the work of the trust. The workshop will take place in Beacon Park’s Discovery Hub (behind the bowling greens), between 11am and 3pm.
Everyone is being encouraged to take advantage of a special offer and enjoy a Rapid Round of golf in Beacon Park this half term.
From Monday 27 to Friday 31 October, between 10am and 2pm, everyone can get involved and enjoy a 9-hole round of golf. Ideal for beginners and young people, a Rapid Round costs from £2.60, with equipment available for hire. There is no need to book, simply make your way to the Ranger Station to pay and then tee-off for your ‘Rapid Round’ of fun.
Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “We have a good range of activities at Beacon Park to keep the family busy this half term. From the wonderful play area and Halloween Puzzle trail, to making a bird feeder and having a discounted round of golf, the programme of activities is guaranteed fun for all.”
To see Lichfield District Council’s full half term Holiday Fun programme, which includes activities at Beacon Park, Burntwood Leisure Centre and Friary Grange Leisure Centre, visit http://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun.

Lichfield News – Food Festival and Bike Ride

Lichfield News

 Food Festival and Bike Ride

 

Lichfield Food Festival Market and Pop Up Cookery Demos

Festival goers will be spoilt for choice with the wide range of food and drink stalls and pop up cookery demonstrations at Lichfield Food Festival Market.
This year’s Lichfield Food Festival Market will take place on the Market Square, and will extend to surrounding streets and through Three Spires Shopping Centre. It will run on Saturday 30 August from 9am to 5pm and on Sunday 31 August between 10am and 4pm.

Organised by Lichfield City Council, the weekend market will bring an abundance of passionately produced food from across the region and beyond, together with a wide range of goods to Lichfield.

Markets’ Officer Rachel Clive said: “With such a versatile selection of delicious traditional British and multi-cultural hot and cold food on offer over the weekend, Lichfield Food Festival Market will definitely have something to suit all tastes. On Sunday children can enjoy the experience with a visit to the children’s activity stall on Market Square where, for £2.50, they can create their own personalised sweetie box to take home.”

To see all of the stall holders that will be showcasing their produce, visit http://www.lichfieldfood.co.uk/market/

One of the market’s highlights will be the pop up cookery demonstrations taking place over the two days of the festival on Market Square, organised by Central England Co-operative in association with chef Simon Smith.

Top chefs from across the region will prepare dishes in front of the crowds using The Co-operative food range.

The series of free displays will kick off on Saturday 30 August at 11am when head chef Paul Gilmore from Restaurant Gilmore will take to the pop up kitchen. They will run on the hour with the last demonstration starting at 4pm. Chefs, including choclatier Daniel Jones, star baker Duncan Hindley, local private caterer Simon Smith, Trevor Hancock from Super Yachts and Gail Abbey from Sospa Fitness, will also be cooking up a storm on Saturday.

On Sunday 31 August, the demonstrations will start at 12noon when Paul Bough will prepare dishes using Henckel Zwilling Knives. The displays will run on hour, and will also feature Richard Turner from Turner’s Restaurant, Matt Davies from Moat House and Sorrento’s Head chef Umberto. The final display of the festival will be by the owner of Lichfield’s Ruby restaurant, who will demonstrate Chinese dishes from 4pm.

Chef Simon Smith said: “From high end dining and healthy eating, to chocolate treats and fun food for the family, there are plenty of displays to choose from.”

Lichfield Food Festival also includes a celebration of local brewers in the Guildhall, cookery demonstrations showcasing kitchen gadgets at The Kitchen Shop and The George Hotel, a children’s Cupcake Hunt starting at St Mary’s in the Market Square (Saturday only), a baking competition at Three Spires Shopping Centre (Sunday), as well as food and drink trails.

Some familiar faces will also be appearing, including TV chef Rachel Green, the QVC and Ideal World TV presenter, Mal Harradine, and Christine Wallace, finalist in the Great British Bake Off.

For the full Lichfield Food Festival programme, please visit http://www.lichfieldfood.co.uk

There will be road closures over the two day festival that will affect Tamworth Street (lower section), Conduit Street, Breadmarket Street, Market Street and Bore Street. To find the nearest car parks, please visitwww.lichfielddc.gov.uk/carparkmap

Lichfield Food Festival is organised in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Central England Co-operative, Chef Simon Smith, Lichfield City Council, Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield Arts, Tippers, Cakeydora, The Kitchen Shop and The George Hotel. It is sponsored by Central England Co-operative, Tippers and NFU Mutual.

August’s cycle ride for all

Everyone’s invited to get on their bike and join a cycle ride to Fisherwick Lakes on Sunday 24 August 2014.
Following July’s Cycle Rides for All, which saw 35 people go on a three and a half mile taster cycle ride that set off from Beacon Park, the partnership behind the series of monthly rides is once again inviting keen cyclists to get on their bike for August’s ride.

The sixth group cycle ride in the series is to Fisherwick Lakes on Sunday 24 August. It is an eight and a half mile cycle ride there and back and has been awarded a level 2 for difficulty, which means it is suitable for all.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “We’re always keen to encourage more people to get on their bikes and take part in this healthy and fun activity, and so are pleased to be working in partnership to support these monthly cycle rides. They are a great way for people to discover good cycle routes, meet new people, and have an enjoyable day out.”

To join in this free cycle ride, simply bring your bike to Freedom Cycles, in Lichfield Bus Station, at 10am on Sunday 24 August, where it will be given a safety check before the group sets off. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

To find out more, or to check whether a ride is taking place if the weather is uncertain, please call Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308846.

Details of this and September’s cycle ride can be found online at http://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cyclerides.

Cycle Rides for All is run in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Freedom Cycles, Bromford Living, North Lichfield Initiative and Lichfield City Council.

Lichfield News – Cycle rides for all – 2014 programme

Lichfield News

Cycle rides for all – 2014 programme

Get on your bike and enjoy a free, led cycle ride each month

July’s cycle ride for all
Posted: 17 Jul 2014 07:20 AM PDT
Everyones invited to get on their bike and join a taster cycle ride around Beacon Park and beyond on Sunday 27 July 2014.
The monthly Sunday cycle rides programme, Cycle Rides for All, is back for 2014.
On top of rides to the National Memorial Arboretum and Fradley Junction, this year’s programme also includes the two new locations, of Fisherwick Lakes and Packington Moor Farm near Weeford.
The rides are graded from level 1, which is suitable for beginners, to level 4, which is for more experienced cyclists.
All bikes are given a safety check by Freedom Cycles before setting off. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
We recommend wearing a safety helmet, appropriate clothes, and bringing a packed lunch and drink (although must rides do include a cafe stop).

Lichfield News – May Conservation Days

Lichfield News

May’s conservation days

Published on Thursday, 1st May 2014

Volunteers needed to help at two conservation events in Lichfield this May.

Lichfield District Council is inviting adults to roll up their sleeves to help out at two Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (CPCG) events this May.

The first conservation day is running on Wednesday 7 May 2014 at Beacon Park and includes habitat management.

Councillor Andrew Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “Nature conservation is a great way to work as a group to boost important local natural habitats. It also offers a chance to meet new people and to learn new skills.”

The second CPCG day of the month is on Wednesday 21 May at Christian Fields in Lichfield, and includes improving the woodland and the Local Nature Reserve’s outdoor classroom.

Councillor Ian Pritchard, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Development, said: “We are so grateful to our CPCG volunteers who continue to help us to manage important parks and green spaces across the district. We’re always keen for more people to join the group, so if you are interested in nature conservation, please contact us to find out how to get involved.”

Both days will run from 10.30am to 3pm and are for over 18s. All tools will be provided as well as light snacks. Wearing outdoor waterproof clothes and sturdy footwear is recommended.

To find out more please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cpcg

To book your free place, please call Denice Deverall at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308183 or email countryside@lichfielddc.gov.uk

Lichfield News – Beacon Park’s Victorian May Day

Lichfield News

Beacon Park’s Victorian May Day

Published on Monday, 28th April 2014
Head to Museum Gardens on May Day to enjoy all the vintage activities on offer.
Lichfield District Council’s park rangers are hosting a Victorian May Day at Museum Gardens in Beacon Park on Monday 5 May, between 11am and 2pm.
The May Day celebrations will include maypole dancing workshops, a coconut shy, croquet, hoopla, a Victorian flower cone workshop and possibly Victorian swing boats.
A traditional Punch and Judy Show will also take place from 12 noon to 1pm on the day, which has been part funded by Chandlers Café.
Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said:
“We hope plenty of people join us for our Victorian May Day event, and enjoy all the activities on offer.”
Thanks to the new Decades Vintage Boutique, which is set to open on St John’s Street in June, the park rangers will be dressed in Victorian costume throughout the day.
It is free to come along to the Victorian May Day event, although there will be a small charge for some of the activities.
To find out more about visiting Beacon Park, go to http://www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk/

Lichfield & Burntwood News – Beacon Park’s skatepark and Ryecroft Shopping Centre

Lichfield & Burntwood News

Beacon Park’s skatepark is officially opened

Published on Monday, 7th April 2014
The ribbon was cut, officially opening Beacon Park’s new skatepark, on Saturday 5 April 2014.
Project funders and supporters, as well as keen skaters, assembled at Beacon Park’s new skatepark on 5 April to see Lichfield District Council’s Chairman cut the ribbon to officially open the completed facility.
Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “It’s so important that young people have venues available to encourage them to go outside and get active, so it gave me great pleasure to launch Beacon Park’s fantastic new skatepark. I am sure it will be enjoyed by generations of skaters for many years to come, and I hope everyone takes pride in it and helps us to keep it a pleasant place for all.”
Following the ribbon cutting, the crowd was treated to skating display by Gravity pro skaters.
Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, commented: “The skating was amazing and really showed what can be achieved on the ramps, after plenty of practice! Well done to the skaters and, on behalf of the council, we thank everyone who has helped to fund the skatepark and supported the project.”
Beacon Park’s £145,900 skatepark was funded by section 106 capital and contributions, The Veolia Environmental Trust, Lichfield City Council, Staffordshire Local Community Fund, and Lichfield District Safer Community Partnership. Lichfield District Council also contributed towards the landscaping.
Paul Taylor, Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, said: “Over the last five years we have awarded £486,546 through the Landfill Communities Fund to community and environmental projects in Staffordshire, and it is always great to hear about the opening of one we have supported. This facility will bring a range of health and social benefits to the community of Lichfield and I hope it is used and enjoyed for many years to come.”
The skatepark is regularly inspected, but if anyone has any concerns, they can contact the council’s parks team on 01543 308867 or email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk

Restoring Ryecroft Shopping Centre

Published on Monday, 7th April 2014
Project partners raised a glass to celebrate the completion of a makeover project in Burntwood.
Traders and representatives from local organisations gathered today (Monday 7 April) to unveil the newly improved Ryecroft Shopping Centre in Burntwood.
Dianne Clift of D Beauty & Tanning Studio, and founding member of the Ryecroft Traders Association, cut the ribbon in front of assembled guests, proudly launching the improvements.
Building work to improve the centre’s car park and public spaces started in March and came about after the local businesses formed the Ryecroft Traders’ Association to address the shopping centre’s issues and boost trade.
Dianne Clift of D Beauty & Tanning Studio and founding member of the Ryecroft Traders’ Association, said: “It’s been a huge project for us and, with help from local councillors, Burntwood Business Crew and a great team from Lichfield District Council, who helped to establish and manage the project for us, and continue to advise our newly formed traders association, it’s finally paid off. We are all overjoyed with the result and hope it helps bring more much needed business to the centre. Customers have already commented on what a big difference it has made, as they can now park safely on the refurbished car park. Thank you to everyone involved.”
The repairs were funded by Burntwood Town Council, Burntwood Business Crew (with High Street Innovation funding), Lichfield District Safer Community Partnership, and Staffordshire Local Community Fund. Local traders are also contributing to ongoing maintenance of the shopping centre’s public areas.
Work so far has included resurfacing the front car park, patch-repairing the back car park, repairing the shopping centre’s forecourt area, and upgrading and reconnecting the lighting. White car park lines are also set to be painted this week.
Jenni Coleman, Community Safety Manager at Lichfield District Council, said: “We’re really pleased with the improvements, as they make such a difference to the shopping centre. It’s fantastic how everyone has come together on this project, and shows what can be done when working in partnership for one goal. As part of Lichfield District Safer Community Partnership and Burntwood Business Crew, we proud to be involved in this scheme and hope it will make the area safer and more pleasant for traders, shoppers and residents alike.”
Rob Fitzmaurice, of Midland Plumbing Supplies and Chairman of Ryecroft Traders Association, said: “I’m over the moon. This is going to make such a difference to all of our businesses. I didn’t quite believe we could get it sorted it, and I’m so grateful to the Burtnwood Business Crew who kick-started this process and brought everyone together in the first place. It just shows what working together can do for a local community.”
David Whitehouse, Chairman of the Burntwood Business Crew, said: “This is brilliant news for Ryecroft and for Burntwood. And it’s just the first of many projects the Burntwood Business Crew is involved in. From marketing the Burntwood area better, to new signage, we’re all passionate about boosting the local area. I’d encourage anyone out there who shares our passion to get involved.”
“On behalf of the traders, I’d like once again like to thank everyone for their support in making this happen. So many people have been involved, but I’d particularly like to thank all the councillors who’ve been involved, as well as officers at Lichfield District Council including Oliver, Lizzie, Maxine and Alison. I’d also like to thank Steve Lightfoot for helping us to draft the traders association agreement, and of course all my fellow Ryecroft traders, and particularly Dianne at D Beauty & Tanning Studio, who have put in so much time and effort to see this project get off the ground. I’d also like to thank Bal at Tara Wines for donating some delicious cava to help us celebrate today’s launch!” added Rob Fitzmaurice.

 

Lichfield News – 2014’s Cycle Rides for All

Lichfield News

2014’s Cycle Rides for All

The monthly Sunday cycle rides programme, Cycle Rides for All, is back for 2014.
Cycle Rides for All is launching this Sunday (30 March) with an eight and a half mile ride to Fisherwick Lakes.
This event signals the start of the free monthly cycle rides that take place towards the end of the month, from March through to September.
On top of rides to the National Memorial Arboretum and Fradley Junction, this year’s programme also includes the two new locations, of Fisherwick Lakes and Packington Moor Farm near Weeford.
The rides are graded from level 1, which is suitable for beginners, to level 4, which is for more experienced cyclists.

Debby Whiting, from Freedom Cycles, said: “We’re delighted to be launching the Sunday cycle rides and hope plenty of people will join us for the first one of the series. We do a quick safety check of all the bikes before setting off, to make sure they are roadworthy. We also recommend that safety helmets are worn and that you bring a packed lunch and drink, although we do have a café stop on most rides.”
Anyone who wants to join the ride to Fisherwick Lakes should turn up with their bikes on Sunday 30 March at 10am at Freedom Cycles in Lichfield Bus Station on Birmingham Road. This ride is graded level 2, which means it is suitable for all. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
The Cycle Ride for All 2014 programme is available from Freedom Cycles, Beacon Park’s Ranger Station and Lichfield District Council’s Frog Lane offices.
To see the full Cycle Rides for All programme, please visit http://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cyclerides
To find out more, or to check whether a ride is taking place if the weather is uncertain, please call Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Karl Sproston at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308846.
Cycle Rides for All is run in partnership by Lichfield District Council, Freedom Cycles, Bromford Living, North Lichfield Initiative and Lichfield City Council.

40 years of golf course celebrationsGolfers helped Lichfield District Council to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of Beacon Park’s golf course on Sunday 23 March.

On the day, a range of activities took place, including PGA professional tuition on the first tee and the chance to take part in a golf tournament.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Play, said: “Despite the rather cold and blustery day, golfers enjoyed taking part in the festivities, including the professional tuition provided by Robert Rock Golf Academy.
“Our thanks once again to Swinfen Broun Charitable Trust that helped to fund the golf course in 1974, in what was one of the trust’s first major projects. It has given enjoyment to keen golfers over the decades and we hope the golf course will be enjoyed for years to come.”

Well done to Fraser Hamilton-Wright who won the 12 and under category, and to Sam Brown winner of the 13 to 17 category, and to Darren Robinson who won the 18 plus category.
About the golf course
Green Flag accredited Beacon Park offers a mature 18-hole pitch and putt, par 3 golf course, with holes ranging from 90 yards to 110 yards.
The golf course is open every day (subject to conditions), except for Christmas Day. Games do not need to be booked, and are paid for at the park’s Ranger Station (which is the kiosk between Lakeside Bistro and the crazy golf course).
An 18-hole round of golf costs £7.80 for adults and £3.90 for children, and discounts are available with a LAP membership.
Players can use their own golf clubs, or they can be hired when paying for the round. It costs £1.50 a club, which includes a ball and a deposit of £1.

Lichfield News – Local News Including Easter Holiday Fun

Lichfield News

Chase Terrace Park’s new swing

Published on Friday, 21st March 2014

A swing set has been installed at Chase Terrace Park this month.

Children were let loose on a new swing set in Chase Terrace Park in Burntwood on 19 March 2014, when Lichfield District Council unveiled the new piece of equipment.

The swing set was installed thanks to a donation of £1,000 from Councillor Sue Woodward’s Staffordshire Local Community Fund. Burntwood Town Council also contributed £1,000, and Lichfield District Council put in £700.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said:  “We’re ever so grateful to Councillor Woodward and Burntwood Town Council for investing in this park. Swings are always really popular with children of all ages, and we know it is sure to become a firm favourite with families visiting the park.”

In the coming weeks, the council will extend the play area’s fencing so it includes the new addition of the swing within the fenced area.

Councillor Sue Woodward, Staffordshire County Councillor for Burntwood North, said: “Through speaking to residents, I knew that a swing set was a very popular choice to boost Chase Terrace Park’s playground. I am thrilled it is in place and that it is being enjoyed by many children already.”

 Easter holiday fun

Published on Friday, 21st March 2014

Lichfield District Council is inviting children, young people and families to take a look at its cracking programme of activities on offer this Easter.

From holiday clubs and special offers on football, to an Easter trail and swimming lessons, Lichfield District Council is making sure children have an egg-citing Easter break.

The programme is now live on an online calendar at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun. This lists the activities in date order and gives information, such as the times, what the activity involves, and how to book.

Councillor Andy Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “Taking part on a coaching course or holiday club is a great way for children to improve in a sport, meet new friends and keep busy. And, with activities ranging from pool fun sessions and trampolining, through to triathlon coaching and gym workouts, there is plenty to choose from.”

The council’s holiday programme is running at Burntwood Leisure Centre, Friary Grange Leisure Centre and Beacon Park.

To see all the activities on offer, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/holidayfun

 

Woodland countryside conservation events

Published on Thursday, 20th March 2014

Lichfield District Council’s Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (CPCG) is seeking more volunteers to help two woodlands in the Burntwood area to thrive.

This April, the council is inviting everyone to muck in at two CPCG conservation days in two new locations.

The first event is on Wednesday 2 April 2014 at Coulter Lane woodland in Burntwood.

Councillor Andrew Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “Coulter Lane woodland was planted about seven years ago, and since then no management has taken place on the site. Our volunteers will spend the day learning forestry techniques, such as crown lifting, selective thinning and bashing ground vegetation.”

The second CPCG day of the month is on Wednesday 16 April at Larks Rise woodland in Burntwood.

Councillor Ian Pritchard, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Development, said: “Larks Rise woodland was created 15 years ago as part of a housing development in Chase Terrace. Six years ago, a project that saw new footpaths, information boards and planting took place, with help from the Forest of Mercia, the Forestry Commission and we contributed section 106 funding. Our conservation group will be carrying on with the management of the mature and new planting areas, including selective thinning, removing brash, repairing footpaths and doing a deep litter pick.”

Both days will run from 10.30am to 3pm and are for over 18s. All tools will be provided as well as light snacks. Wearing outdoor waterproof clothes and sturdy footwear is recommended.

To find out more please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cpcg

To book your free place, please call Denice Deverall at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308183 or email countryside@lichfielddc.gov.uk

Lichfield & Cannock Chase News

Lichfield News

CPCG Beacon Park stream improvements

Published on Monday, 27th January 2014

A group of volunteers is set to kick off 2014 with two days of conservation work at Beacon Park this February.

Lichfield District Council’s Countryside & Parks Conservation Group (or CPCG for short) volunteer to help maintain local parks and green spaces across the district.

This year, an extra day of conservation work has been added to the monthly programme, so the volunteers will be rolling up their sleeves twice a month to help cut back scrub, build insect hotels, create paths and more.

The first two events of 2014 are on Wednesday 5 and Wednesday 19 February from 10.30am to 3pm.

Both events will take place at Beacon Park, where volunteers will don their wellies to make improvements to the stream.

Councillor Andrew Smith, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Parks, said: “The Countryside & Parks Conservation Group does a fantastic job in helping us to look after and improve the district’s parks and green spaces. These two events will help to maintain Leomansley Brook, which runs through Beacon Park. It will involve clearing back scrub and vegetation and digging silt out to make the stream flow better.”

Anyone over 18 years of age can volunteer. All tools are provided as well as light snacks. Wearing outdoor waterproof clothes and sturdy footwear or wellies is recommended.

Councillor Ian Pritchard, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth & Development, added: “The extra day a month will mean that even more conservation work can be tackled and I hope plenty of people volunteer to get involved in this important work. I know the group is always keen to welcome new members, so do come along if you are interested in taking part.”

To book your free place, please call Denice Deverall at Lichfield District Council on 01543 308183 or emaildenice.deverall@lichfielddc.gov.uk

 

Cannock Chase News

Volunteering Day – Holly Clearing

Shoal Hill Common

Nature reserve in the corner of Shoal Hill. Shoal Hill is an isolated fragment of Cannock Chase separated from the main body by the old Littleton Colliery site. It is nonetheless heavily used by walkers and horse riders and offers a taste of the open areas of the Chase, typically heather and silver birch woodland.  © Copyright John M and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

 Date: 7th Feb 2014

Location: Shoal Hill Common

Time: 10:00 – 15:30

Cost: Free of Charge

Volunteering day – Holly clearing on Shoal Hill Common

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) holly clearing volunteering day on Shoal Hill Common

Voluteer leader is Bob Collett

Most leaders will be on site until 3:30pm or until the task is complete. Volunteers are welcome to stay until the end but any time you provide is gratefully appreciated. Please ensure that you wear appropriate clothing and footwear and bring a packed lunch if you intend to stay after lunch.

For more information contact Emma Beaman, Assistant AONB Officer on 01785 619186 or email emma.beaman@staffordshire.gov.uk

 

 Lichfield News

Olympic torchbearer cuts ribbon on improvements

Published on Tuesday, 28th January 2014

A day of celebration took place at Friary Grange Leisure Centre on Sunday 26 ,

January 2014 to officially launch the £500,000 makeover.

Former Friary School pupil and Olympic Relay torchbearer, Tom Bolton, cut the ribbon to formally open Friary Grange Leisure Centre’s improvements.

Tom was joined by project partner representatives, including Lichfield District Council, The Friary School, Staffordshire County Council, Sport England and Aiming High.

To celebrate the improvements, Lichfield District Council invited everyone to a day of celebrations, offering an extended free swimming session, fun swimming activities, and Evolve Fitness membership deals.

The day was a chance to showcase the completed makeover that includes the new frontage and reception, refurbished swimming pool changing rooms, improved access to the leisure centre and pool, and a viewing gallery to the pool from an extended refreshment area.

Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “The day was a great success with more than 400 people coming to see the improvements and to enjoy all the activities on offer. The works have made such a difference to Friary Grange Leisure Centre, from the new entrance to the changing rooms. I am also really pleased the project has made it easier for people with disabilities to access the pool and the rest of the building.”

Tom Bolton said: “It’s a fantastic makeover, and I hope it encourages more people to swim, especially people with disabilities. It was great to be asked to cut the ribbon and to be back at my old school.”

The Friary Grange Leisure Centre Makeover Project was funded by Sport England, Aiming High, Staffordshire County Council, Lichfield District Council and section 106 contributions.

For more information about the project, visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/friarymakover

 

Lichfield News – The Twelve Days of Christmas & Beginners’ rag rug workshop in park setting

Lichfield News

 The Guildhall, Lichfield

The present building was erected in 1846 although the site on which it stands was used for the Guild, or Fraternity, of Citizens as early as 1387.  Creative Commons Licence [Some Rights Reserved] © Copyright David Rogers and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.

The Twelve Days of Christmas

A festive show for all the family is playing in the Guildhall on Saturday 30 November to raise money for two civics’ charities.

Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, and Councillor Bob Awty, Mayor of Lichfield City Council, are inviting everyone to get into the festive spirit with The Twelve Days of Christmas show.

Presented by Distraction Theatre Company, The Twelve Days of Christmas follows Miss Elizabeth Fairfax and her rather unusual Christmas of 1895.

Mr Edward Fitzwilliam is in love with Miss Fairfax, but since she is a ‘most charming and dear creature; no ordinary wooing will do’.

Watch as Miss Fairfax tries to cope with a few extraordinary presents and the most ridiculous twelve days of her life!

Councillor David Leytham, Chairman of Lichfield District Council, said: “What better way to get that Christmas feeling than by watching a festive play set in the Victorian period?

“I hope we have a full house as it not only promises to be an enjoyable evening, but will also help to raise money for vital local charities.”

Councillor Bob Awty, Mayor of Lichfield City Council, added: “I am pleased to be joining the Chairman in hosting this show for all the family in aid of our chosen charities. It will be a wonderful start to the lead up to Christmas.”

The Twelve Days of Christmas is playing at the Guildhall in Lichfield on Saturday 30 November at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12 and can be booked over the phone by calling Lichfield District Council on 01543 308003.

Any profits from ticket sales will be split between the civics’ chosen charities. The chairman is raising funds for Lichfield Young Carers and Lichfield Arthritis Care. The mayor is raising funds for the Friends of Samuel Johnson Community Hospital and St Giles Hospice.

 

Beginners’ rag rug workshop in park setting

Learn how to make a beautiful rug from scraps of material at one of the three workshops taking place at Beacon Park this December.

Three rag rug workshops, aimed at beginners, are being held in Beacon Park’s Discovery Hub on Sunday 1 December.

Councillor Val Richards, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Communications & Tourism, said: “This is a great opportunity to find out how to use up scraps of material and weave them into a rug, just in time for Christmas.

“Places must be booked in advance, and if you are coming along to one of the workshops, please make sure you bring along some old clothes and material for the rags.”

Each session costs £5. They are suitable for anyone over 8 years of age.

The three two-hour workshops start at 10am, 12noon and 2pm.

To book onto one of the workshops, please contact Beacon Park on 01543 308856 or email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk.