Lichfield Greenhill Bower 2015

L I C H F I E L D ’ S FA M I LY F U N D AY O U T !

O F F I C I A L B O W E R P R O G R A M M E , M AY 2 5 T H 2 0 1 5 Green Man’s Morris and Sword Club will celebrate 60 years of leading the Bower Procession this year!

www.lichfieldbower.co.uk

COLLECTIONS AND THANKS Donations gratefully received in 2014 Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City Council, Staffordshire County Council, Planet Ice, Lichfield Health & Fitness Club, Anthony Harris, Arthur Price, Barnes Recycling & Skip Hire, Stephen Burns, Lichfield Limos, Comfort Foods, FM & J Wait, Hindleys, Jean Whitfield, R Evans (Butcher), Kings Head Pub, Lichfield Gazette, Lichfield Golf & Country Club, Lichfield Mercury, Lovell Partnership, Michaels Menswear, Murray & Willis, Pat Collins Fun Fair, R Meehan (butcher), R Rawlins Tyres Burntwood, Robert Mullarkey, Robert Yardley, Tescos, Tippers Building Materials, Tippers Home Centre, West Midlands Ambulance Service, White Lodge Promotions, Mary Mullarkey, Roy Deakin, Chris Broome, Lichfield District Council Operational Services, Scales Public House, Walsall Wheelbarrow Company, Pete Smith, Coco Meli, White Lodge Promotions, Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery, Wilkinsons, A Rowe, Probus Club, Jewsons, IMP UK, Norma and Brian Bacon, Dee Communications, FM J Wait

THANK YOU! A huge thank you to the advertisers in this years’ Bower Programme!

The kind support that they have made has made the publication of this programme possible. As a reciprocal gesture, may we draw your attention to their advertised services.

President: Andrew Lock Vice-Presidents: Roland Marks, Stephen Burns,

Paul Davis, Mary Mullarkey, Jill Smith

Peter Smith, Trevor Morris, Julie Davis

Kath Marks, Margaret Gilmour,

Jean Whitfield, Robert Whitfield,

Robert Mullarkey, Lesley Warfield Chairman: Michael Mullarkey Vice-Chairman: Ian Rawlins Secretary: Lesley Warfield Treasurer: Keith Greaves Beacon Park Organiser: Beth Colley, Ian Rawlins Bower Queen Organiser: Kath Marks, Hannah Woolley Prince & Princess Org: Perdita Lawton Catering Organiser: Paul Maddox Charity Organiser: Jean Whitfield Publicity & Fund-raising: Michael Mullarkey

Julia Danks, Beth Colley Procession: Jean Whitfield Bower Yard: Paul Davis Chief Marshall: Paul Davis Park Works: Steve Burns, Alex Towers Town Market Stalls: Mark Simmonds Ass. by Trevor Morris Programme Editors: Beth Colley, Kath Marks Website: Heath Rhodes Music Event Organiser: Heath Rhodes Chief Steward: Paddy Rusk Float Design & Build: Robert Mullarkey, Perdita Lawton Court of Arraye: Ron Hartley Minute Secretary: Kath Marks City Council Rep: Mrs J Greaves District Council Rep: John Smith, Lyn Hammant Staffordshire Police Rep: Gary Lote Honorary Members: Mr & Mrs C Millard Honorary Legal Advisor: Mr S R James, LLB Health & Safety Helen Overton Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee Members Mr S Burns, Ms B Colley, Mrs J Danks, Mr Davis, Mr B Ellett, Mr N Fletcher Mrs M Gilmour,Mr & Mrs K Greaves, Mr & Mrs A Harris, Mr M Harris, Mr R Hartley, Mr & Mrs Howell, Mr & Mrs S Jakeman, Ms J Jones, Ms P Lawton, Mr G A Lock, Mr P Maddox, Mr & Mrs R Marks, Mr P Maxwell, Mr T Morris, Mr M Mullarkey, Mr & Mrs R Mullarkey, Mr I Rawlins, Ms E Pritchard, Mr H Rhodes, Mr P Rusk, Mr & Mrs P Smith, Mr A Towers, Mr M Walker, Mrs L Warfield, Mr & Mrs R Whitfield, Miss H Woolley, Mr J Wright.

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Picture reproduced courtesy of the Lichfield Mercury

Messages from our President & Chairman

Hello and welcome to the 2015 Lichfield Greenhill Bower, the day when our wonderful City comes to life with a carnival atmosphere.

Lichfield is the home of many customs and ceremonies the Bower being one of them whose origin is lost in antiquity.

There’s music and excellent entertainment of all kinds, much of which can be found in Beacon Park. This event does not just happen. It takes 12 months hard work and planning and my most sincere thanks go to all members of the Bower Committee for their work and dedication to the Bower cause, long may this continue.

For over one hundred years the Mayor has crowned the Bower Queen outside of the Guildhall at 12 noon. The oldest tradition in the procession is the Morris men who this year the Green Mans Morris and Sword Club celebrate 60 years and will be joined by other clubs to lead the procession. The main Band this year will be Air Cadet Organisation Marching Band.

I often reflect on Bowers of old and things that used to be. For example in 1924 the City Band charged £14.00 to lead the Procession, the main event in Beacon Park during the 1930’s through to early 1960 was cycling and athletics, and in the 1950’s and 1960’s steer riding used to be the final event of the day - whilst no serious injuries ever occurred I don’t think it would pass the strict H&S guidelines we have to adhere to today! How times have changed!

Sincere thanks must go to the City and District Councils for their valued support to this event, also to the many charities and organisations who help on the day, not forgetting our local police force for their help and advice given.

Above all our thanks to you the general public for your fantastic support. Let today be filled with happy memories.

After the procession please come and join us in Beacon Park - the biggest event for a family day of entertainment. See page 10 for a list of acts and more information. I hope you have taken advantage of our EARLY BIRD WRISTBANDS for a £1 until May 19th, and remember CHILDREN UNDER 5 FREE once again. Pat Collins Fair will also be in attendance in the park and in the city.

Lastly I would like to thank my loyal committee members for organising the oldest event in Lichfield and who give their spare time freely.

Also thank you to the many trade people and organisations who support us each year.

Success to the Bower and long may it continue.

Success to the Bower, long may it continue!

Andrew Lock

President of the Bower Committee

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Michael Mullarkey

Chairman of the Bower Committee

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Staffordshire Search & Rescue Staffordshire Search and Rescue will once again be on hand in the procession and Beacon Park helping to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Bower Day!

Welcome to the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team (SSART). SSART is a team of 65 volunteers approved

by Staffordshire Police to assist the emergency services to locate and recover missing persons. In 2014 our dedicated volunteers gave over 2,279 hours of time freely searching for missing children and vulnerable adults.

Equivalent in expertise to the better known mountain rescue teams (MRT), operational members are trained in different types of search techniques including Navigation and Map Reading; Radio Communications, Advanced First Aid; Technical Rope Skills and Working on Steep Ground; Crime Scene Preservation.

Search Technicians are also water bank search trained and Flood-First Responders. Our members assist the emergency services during local or wide area flooding, caused by heavy rainfall or prolonged periods of adverse weather.

Our life-saving rescue service has an established Search Dog Team.

Handler Dave Barley and threeyear-old border collie ‘Red’ are

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In 2014 our dedicated volunteers gave over 2,279 hours of time freely searching for missing children and vulnerable adults.

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Ellie Wheeler will be officially crowned Lichfield Mercury Bower Queen 2015 on Bower Day. Ellie won the title at a glittering selection night at Lichfield Golf and Country Club.

The A-level student, who lives in Lichfield, is a keen swimmer who has represented West Midlands at Midland level and now teaches the sport at 2 local swim schools. Tegan Grist will also be crowned Deputy Bower Queen.

Around 60 people, including a party of civic guests, attended the selection night, which was compered

by Lee Roberts from Lichfield Golf and Country Club.

The panel of judges included incumbent Bower Queen Bethany Daire, Karen Wharton of Obsession Salon & Spa, Dan Ralley from St Johns House, Senior Reporter of the Mercury Andy Kerr and John Martin from Lichfield Golf and Country Club.

Thank you to:

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Thank you to all the lovely girls who entered!

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Quadbikes, motorbikes, falconry, horses, music, strong men, wrestlers...

Beacon Park is the place to be on Bower Day!

Beacon Park on Bower Day – it’s not to be missed!

On Bower Day, Lichfield’s Beacon Park comes alive with lots for everyone to enjoy.

Wander through the park and indulge yourself in the colourful array of fairground attractions, charity stalls, arts and crafts, our fabulous ‘Paws in the Park’ dog show, picnic areas, food stalls, Van Buren’s Variety Show and fine wines and Prosecco from Lichfield’s Worth Brothers Wine Merchants. Kids will love the play areas and the chance for an ice-cream treat!

There’s a buzzing music tent with many live local acts with King Pleasure and The Biscuit Boys headlining this year.

Jason Smyth (ex world champion moto-cross rider) will be performing 10

breathtaking stunts on quad bikes and motorbikes in a unique arrangement, including quad freestyle with impressive jumps 30ft high over an articulated rig, with Jive Pony and Red Tail Falconry Display adding to the fun in the park.

Lichfield Show of Strength returns with an even bigger, better stronger show and of course Bower favourites Live USA Style Wrestlers! Free Radio will host the afternoon with music, chat, competitions and give-aways. Boswell Bear and his Bosettes from Elite Dance Academy will be throwing some shapes and performing their moves for you.

Bring your friends and family and while away a fun afternoon in Beacon Park for the incredible price of just £3 - but buy before 19th May and your wristband will only cost £1. Under 5’s go FREE.

Party in the Park, Beacon Park Running Order MAIN ARENA OPENS 12.30

12.30 Ye Olde Red Tail Falconry

1.15

Boswell & his Bosettes

1.15

Jive Pony

2.00

Adrenelin Tour Quadbike

2.45

Bower Queen

3.30

Ye Olde Red Tail Falconry

3.45

Jive Pony

4.30

Adrenelin Tour Quadbike

Please note this is for guidance only as times can change due to unforeseen circumstances.

King Pleasure & The Biscuits Boys to headline the Bower Day Music Tent! entertainment. Now in it’s third year, the music tent will continue to support local talent as well as a finale act to shake the roots of the tree’s.

Heath Rhodes, Lichfield Bower music organiser commented ‘We have thousands of people turn up on Bower Day in the Park and we want to try and offer a much broader appeal for people.

King Pleasure are a not to be missed act and we urge local people to get her early to a good view and also witness the other array of local entertainment too.

King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys are more than just the world’s greatest swing & R&B band, they are an institution! The band have been on the road for almost three decades playing every European country as well as touring the USA, Russia and the Middle East.

Dazzling musicianship,riveting stage performances, more than 50 TV appearances and 75 radio broadcasts have established them as the Kings of Swing.

The music tent is one of the newest additions to the Beacon Park celebrations on Bower Day and this year we have pulled out all the stops to bring you an incredible afternoon of 12

The Music Tent will fire up from midday and King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys are expected to bounce onto the stage around 3:30 to 4:00pm.

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The Bower & its origins... beef, wine and posies!

The origins of the Bower go back many centuries to the time of Henry II (1154-1189).

At that time England had no standing army and when the King needed troops to defend the realm. He raised them by mustering all the able bodied men between the ages of 16-60 throughout the kingdom.

To enable him to do this Henry set up a Commission of Arraye in which cities throughout the country had to submit to a return of all the men-at-arms available throughout the kingdom each year. These musters were known as Courtes of Arraye, and in Lichfield the Courte of Arraye was always held on Whit Monday.

It was held at Greenhill, where a “Bower House” was erected and decorated with laural and lilac. Here the men-at-arms mustered before the magistrates with their arms and armour were regaled with free beef and wine.

At the end of the day the magistrates sent

a return of the numbers to the Commission of Arraye in London. As an example if this in 1604 the report of the Commission contained the following: “Leichfield town, able men 285; armed men 150; pyoneers 50; high horses 50.”

In Lichfield someone must have decided that having got all the men-at-arms together it was a pity not to do something with them, and so they were paraded around the streets of the city. They were accompanied by the Lichfield Morris dancers with drum and tabor and by people from the churches carrying figures of saints garlanded with flowers. Whitsun being an important festival of the Church and the garlanded figures were known as “posies”.

Most of the ancient features of the Bower still survive - the Court of Arraye is held in the Guildhall, the procession through the streets includes Morris Dancers and Military Bands and the place of the posies has been taken by the tableaux mounted on lorries and trailers.

Most importantly, as in the past, the principal features of the Bower is a jolly good day out for all!

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Messages of thanks...

Lichfield Bower is a time for family, fun and friendship.

The Lichfield Greenhill Bower is one of the highlights of the year the origins of which date back to the 12th century. One of our great traditions is a pleasure to take part in 2015’s festivities.

From the crowning of the Bower Queen to the street carnival, to the funfair and entertainments in Beacon Park, there is much to enjoy on this special day.

I hope that the people of Lichfield and our visitors have a great day and we thank them for their generous contributions to the nominated charities.

My congratulations to whole team behind the Bower. Without the hard work and dedication of the team of volunteers who work unseen throughout the year this event would not take place. We have much to thank them for.

May the sun shine. Success to the Bower! Long may it continue!

Bob Awty Sheriff of Lichfield

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Lichfield Greenhill Bower sets the scene for the programme of Lichfield District festivals whether it is the bands, floats or fun in Beacon Park, it provides a colourful start to the Summer season.

Each year since time immemorial, the Bower has also brought a traditional sparkle and I can’t remember a year when I have not joined in the celebrations.

May I express my appreciation for all the work the Committee undertakes throughout the year to stage this remarkable event and I wish the Bower every success for this year and many years to come.

David S Smith, Chairman Lichfield District Council

The Lichfield Bower is one of the many long standing traditions of Lichfield City and I was extremely proud to be a part of the events last year when I crowned the Bower Queen and I am thrilled to be able to do so again this year.

The whole day brings the city alive; people fill the streets to watch the procession, they can enjoy the Fair and all the many entertainments in Beacon Park and the and browse the many market stalls.

The Bower is run by a committee of volunteers, the time and dedication which goes into the organisation is unimaginable and without these people, the event could never take place. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very successful day and I hope that the weather will be kind all day.

Success to the Lichfield Greenhill Bower – long may it continue.

Councillor Mrs Norma Bacon Mayor of Lichfield

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OUR 2015 PRINCE & PRINCESS AND DEPUTIES...

I’ve been a member of Lichfield Greenhill Bower Committee for 10 years and helped at every Bower since, usually escorting the judges who choose the winning floats in the procession and then walking with the procession alongside the prince and princess floats.

Bower Prince Harry Fry (15) Bower Princess Amelia Abbots Mitchell (12) Deputy Prince Joel Quirk (8) Deputy Princess Amber Easton (6)

Frozen came to the Lichfield Greenhill Bower!!

The Bower Prince, Princess, and their deputies were chosen at a fantastically ‘Frozen’ themed disco in the Guildhall.

Our Frozenly dressed youngsters danced the day away in the Guildhall with Elsa, Anna and Olaf who can be contacted through their friends at Silhouette Dance Academy. The children were also entertained by one of our judges Kilke John, who is currently touring a show of ‘Satin n Steele’.

We’d like to thank Silhouette Dance Academy, our wonderful judges: The Mayor of Lichfield Norma Bacon, Lichfield District Council Vice Chairmans Lady Maureen Humphries, Nicola Holt and Kilke John. Also a big thank you to our photographer Tessa Lees and our sponsor Humpty Dumpty Nursery who kindly made and donated Frozen party bags for all the Children to leave with. www.sdadance.co.uk

www.robertsandjohn.uk

Raffi, Harry, Laura and Lola – all aged 4 making snow flakes for the Bower Float at Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery

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I’ve now taken on the role of Prince and Princess organiser and i’m just starting to realise the extent of the work involved in the job! I’m in charge of the Prince and Princess selection day, the decorating of the two floats for the procession and i’m responsible for the children on the day in the procession and then the Prince and Princess in the park (Mary Mullarkey who did this job for many years has my undying admiration).

This year Humpty Dumpty have again sponsored our mascot Boswell Bear and provided lovely selection day party bags for the children so we really wanted to make sure the children from Humpty Dumpty were as involved as much as they could be. With the theme for the Prince and Princess floats being Frozen, we thought it would be a great idea if the Humpty Dumpty children made snowflakes to decorate them and hopefully they can spot their hard work Bower Day! Thank you Humpty for your help!

Also a massive thanks to Elsa, Anna and Olaf from Siloutte Dance Academy who did a super job on selection day!

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THE ULTIMATE BOWER DAY OUTING FOR YOUR TOP DOG

PAWS IN THE PARK SPONSORED BY

Welcome to Paws in The Park 2015 part of the Lichfield Bower annual celebrations in Beacon Park Lichfield. There are loads of activities for you and your dog to enjoy, a Fun dog show, Agility displays and a Search & Rescue demonstration.

The show caters to your every need; find behavioural demonstrations and one-to-one training. You’ll also meet local canine partners who provide care, support & advice to dog owners in the Lichfield area.

‘Scruffs’ Fun Dog Show Join in the fun and enter your furry friend into the Scruffs fun dog show, sponsored by Oscar Pet Foods. Is your dog the most Radiant Rescue? Have you got the most Gorgeous Gal or the dog with the Waggiest tail?

Or does your best friend have a special trick or 18

talent? Can your dog dance, skateboard, sing or do tricks - beg, roll over or twist? The competition is open to all dogs - it doesn’t matter if they can only do a couple of tricks we want to see them all!

With 10 different fun classes to enter and rosettes for all winners it’s sure to be a fantastic show. In addition to a winning rosette the Best in Show will receive 3 months supply of food and treats courtesy of Oscar Pet Food in Lichfield.

‘Agility Show’ Looking for a fun way to bond with your dog and put his natural instincts to work?

Check out the Agility displays from Jacky and her team at Capable Canines in Alrewas. Dog agility is a popular canine sport in which a handler directs a dog through a variety of obstacles such as a tunnel, teeter-totter, tire jump, weave poles, pause table, and standard jumps.

‘Have a Go Agility’ Have you ever stood back in amazement and watched the top agility dogs flying over jumps, up and over ‘A’ frames and dog walks, and in and out of weave poles. If you haven’t tried agility with your dog yet or perhaps need a little practice or fine tuning the ‘Have a go’ Agility ring at the Paws in the Park is certainly the place for you. Experts will be on hand to point you in the right so be assured you are in good hands.

‘Nutritional Advice’ Choosing the right food for your dog can be a difficult choice. Ingredients listed on the packaging can be limited and the brand marketing messages confusing. Your dog may have a health concern, a weight problem, an allergy or just be a fussy eater. Whatever the issue Jane at Oscar Pet Food in Lichfield can give you the correct advice for your dog based on breed, age & lifestyle to ensure they receive the optimum nutrition for a healthier, longer life.

‘One To One Behaviour & Training’ If you love dogs then you’ll probably have watched the worldwide TV series “The Dog Whisperer” which featured Cesar Milan helping dog owners to solve their dog’s behavioural issues. If your dog needs a little help with bad habits, naughty behaviour or unsociable problems then Yvonne the ‘female’ dog whisperer will be at the show to discuss your dog’s problem and offer guidance & support.

Yvonne will also be doing a demonstration during the day featuring ‘ How to Greet a Dog’ using the Red, Yellow & Green programme.

TIMETABLE OF EVENTS 12.00 Registration for ‘Scruffs’ 13:00 SSART Demonstration (Ring 3) 14:00 ‘Scruffs’ Fun Dog Show (Ring 3) 14:00 Agility Display (Ring 1) 15:00 Dog Training & Behav. Demo (Ring 3) 15:30 Agility Display (Ring 1) 16:30 Scruffs Fun Dog Show & Comp Prize Drawer winners announced Have A Go Agility - will be available during the day in Ring 2

‘Dog Grooming’ A dog that’s clean and odour free is a joy to be around. There’s nothing pleasant about being able to smell your dog when you walk through your front door. Regular bathing and brushing keeps shedding to a minimum and will prevent skin irritations, keep its coat shiny and decrease the chances of parasites, making their homes in your dog’s coat. David from Tail Waggers Dog Grooming will be showing you how to keep your dog in tip top condition.

‘Search & Rescue’ Hopefully you will never need to use the services of the Staffordshire Search & Rescue Team (SSART) but if you do then be assured you’ll be in good hands. The handlers and their dogs do a fantastic job supporting the authorities and are authorised to undertake search & rescue operations to locate missing men, women & children on open farm land and inner city housing estates within the local area.

See Dave Barley and his Border Collie ‘Red’ (who is one of only 200 qualified search & rescue dogs nationally) in action at the show.

‘Veterinary’ The Pool House Vets team will be at the show to discuss any aspect of your pet’s health and wellbeing. They have been serving the local community for over 150 years in the Lichfield area and offer excellent facilities for the small animals in your family along with a brand new purpose built, dedicated hydrotherapy and rehabilitation centre ‘Mobility Matters’. In addition, their award winning equine team are renowned for providing a modern and friendly equine veterinary service designed to meet the needs of the individual horse owner.

We hope that you and your pet family enjoy the show, and do tell all your friends with dogs to join in too; all dogs are welcome - whatever the size, age and ability provided they are on a lead.

It’s a fantastic doggy day out!

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Just £1 entry into Beacon Park Early Bird Wristbands now available! see www.lichfieldbower.co.uk for participating outlets

with thanks to our sponsor>>

On the day All classes £3 5’s and under free!

BIG Thank you to the Civilian Services...

Most of the time we take Police, Fire and Ambulance services for granted, valuing them only when they actually help us.

However, the Police Force, Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service have a 24 hour commitment to or wellbeing and a professionalism that does each a great credit.

Without the willing assistance and advice of the Emergency Services, the Bower could not be celebrated at all.

Thank you!

Humpty Dumpty

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Lichfield Greenhill Bower is granted registered charity status...

The Lichfield Greenhill Bower has always raised money for local charities and causes from the proceeds of Bower Day. We have gifted money to many hundreds of local organisations over the years to ensure they continue to service members of our community in a positive way.

Last year saw a record number of donations to over 30 organisations who benefited from the donations you make when attending this historic event.

This year the Lichfield Greenhill Bower has been acknowledged as a registered charity and is now inviting local organisations to apply for donations. The basic outline for funding by the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Charity is as follows:• This fund is aimed at small local groups and good causes who have an annual income of less than £10,000.

• Preference will be given to local independent and self led groups.

• Grants are available between £100 and £1000.

Thank You Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City Council and Staffordshire County Council for their continued support.

To WB Deakin & Sons, Potato Growers and Merchants of Weeford, for providing tractor and driver, and to NFU Insurance. Trent Valley 1st Responders and Staffordshire Search and Rescue.

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• Grants are available to benefit the community within the Lichfield district and therefore groups must be based and work within the boundaries of of Staffordshire.

• Annual income should be less than £10,000. Financial records should be up to date and available to view if requested.

• Groups should have a constitution and a bank account with a minimum of 2 signatories.

• Successful applications will be expected to provide feedback on how their grant was used and possibly hold a cheque presentation for publicity purposes.

Before you apply for a donation you must be aware the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Charity will not consider statutory organisations (including local authorities, parish councils, schools, police, PCT’s), solely commercial ventures, police, religious and party political activity, running costs of a one off event with no long term benefit, or reimbursement of costs for goods or services bought or ordered before the grant approval date.

In all cases the projects we fund must give the maximum benefit to our community and also ensure funds we grant make a significant contribution to the overall project.

To find out more you can download an application form and guidelines for funding from our website at

www.lichfieldbower.co.uk

Baths ° Taps ° Sanitaryware Showers ° Shower Enclosures Vanity Furniture ° Towel Warmers Wall Panels

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Recommended businesses Irresistible offers Local events Local info www.thebestof.co.uk/lichfield

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J HOWELL & DAUGHTERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Now Lichfields only family run funeral directors here to help you at your time of need.

Providing skip and grab hire to Lichfield and surrounding areas

For our personal care and attention please call 01543 255776

Tipping welcome at our recycling sites.

All waste is segregated at our new MRF (materials recycling facility), achieving an 80-85% recycling rate.

Full range of skip sizes available for hire: mini, midi, maxi and high capacity roll on/off containers.

Aggregates available: concrete sand, builders sand, gravel, MOT sub-base limestone, top soil and crushed brick.

Tel: 01543 262000

Fax: 01543 250480 Email sales@barnes-skips.co.uk www.barnes-skips.co.uk

We are at:

www.jhowellfuneraldirectors.co.uk

2014 cheque presentations were made to the following: Clic Staffordshire Search and Rescue ATC 1206 Mercian Squadron Trent Valley Community First Responders Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Staffordshire & Shropshire Blood Bikes Erasmus Darwin House Voluntary Transport for the Disabled Lichfield Churches Criminal Justice Forum NSPCC Lichfield District Friends of Sandfields Pumping Station Macmillan Cancer Support Francisco House Lichfield City Football Club Dan Berry Lichfield & Tamworth Cats Protection Saxon Hill School Lichfield Golf & Country Club Violets in Bloom Tamworth Samaritans Burntwood Sub Aqua Club Lichfield 7th Scouts Group Lichfield Army Cadet Force Lichfield Cathedral Soroptimists International Staffordshire Wildlife Trust Guide Dogs for the Blind Teenage Cancer Trust, Lichfield Ladies Circle 106 Lichfield Round Table Lichfield Lions

Beth pictured at The Lal Bagh - one of her many prizes donated in 2014!

Thank you to all the local businesses for their continued generosity in donating prizes for our Bower Queens!

Obsession Cure Tan Beauty Boutique Tan Bijou at No. 15 Tudor Cafe St. John’s House Friary Shoes Le Reve

Salloways Bradshaws Arthur Price Ivison the Lichfield Florist Dame Oliver’s Lal Bagh Ernies and Isabelles Rooms to Inspire Sara Moseley Photography Ltd

Lost Children FOR INFORMATION REGARDING LOST CHILDREN, PLEASE GO TO THE MAIN ARENA IN BEACON PARK

Lichfield Heritage Weekend Lichfield Food Festival is taking place in Lichfield City centre on Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 August.

19 & 20 Sept September 2015

The two-day event will showcase top chefs from across the region, quality food and drink and more.

This annual celebration of great local food and drink across Lichfield has something to suit all tastes and budgets, including: • • •

•

• • •

Cookery demonstrations by top regional chefs and bakers live on Lichfield Garrick’s main stage Choice food and drink stalls in Central England Co-operative’s Lichfield Food Festival Market A celebration of local brews at Lichfield Arts’ Best of Local Brewers event in the Guildroom of the Guildhall Bird Street Food Event, which is your chance to taste top dishes and drinks from our best restaurants and bars, sold from the street.

Cookery and equipment demonstrations in The Kitchen Shop The chance to enter Cakeydora’s Bake Off Food and drink trails across the city, children’s activities, and plenty more to whet your appetite!

Heritage Weekend takes place every year on Samuel Johnson’s Birthday to celebrate Lichfield’s rich and varied history.

Heritage attractions throw their doors open for free and arrange special events and tours. With a new theme every year there’s always a different reason to come back to enjoy the fun.

Events include: • Free craft activities and trails for children • Guided tours

The Festival is organised by a range of local organisations and businesses and is sponsored

by Central England Co-operative, Taste of Staffordshire and Tippers.

• Free entry to local heritage attractions

Find out more at www.lichfieldfood.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @LichFoodFest

• Samuel Johnson birthday celebrations

• Free entertainment on

Lichfield Market Square

• Spire climbs and tower tours Programme available from August this year, to join the mailing list call 01543 256611 or email info@visitlichfield.com or visit www.visitlichfield.co.uk /heritageweekend

Enter to WIN a Nyjah Houston 7.7” Element deck, or one of two £25 vouchers to spend in-store!

COMPETITION>>

The Lichfield branch of Two Seasons is looking for short new skate videos to feature in-store, and they need your submissions!

The top three winners will have their videos featured in-store, as will the next 10 runners up, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get your video up and out there! Skate safely!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Video entries must be skate-themed, but will be judged on content and creativity. • Directing style will also be taken into consideration. • Duration must be 5 minutes maximum, so make the most of it! Videos will not be accepted if any explicit behaviour or content is found - keep it SFW, folks!

• Backing tracks and music won’t be needed, as the videos will be played without sound. • The winners will be announced in the main arena at this year’s Lichfield Bowerfest, on the 25th of May, at 3pm. • Winners will also be contacted by phone on the day. • Vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash, and prizes are non-transferable. • Closing date for the competition will be the 15th of May. • To submit an entry, please upload the video to YouTube, and then email the link to lichfield.shop@gsmretail.com, stating name and contact number. Please also retain a copy of the file for your reference. • Lichfield Two Seasons are not responsible for any loss or damage to equipment or persons.

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Friends 2 Friends A local registered charity that supports adults with learning difficulties and their carer’s.

We have been running for 3 years and now have to rely on voluntary contributions and fund-raising by the group to cover running costs.

The aim of F2F is to provide choices, guidance and support, in a relaxing, friendly environment, that will promote independence and confidence through social interaction. F2F exists to help its members live a fuller life and enable them to participate fully in community life We are a member led organisation and the members of F2F make the decisions on everything that happens at F2F, from activities and outings to what events they plan and put on.

Members have different roles in the running of F2F which include treasurer, stock management, kitchen managers, buddies for new members and more. We also have four members who sit on the board and are the important link between group and trustees.

Members have attended various course which include money management, first aid, confidence courses, food hygiene, horse riding and more.

They have arranged activities such as drama and street dance which they have arranged for qualified tutors to come and teach them. The group have performed dramas telling the story of Friends 2 Friends itself and also performed Romeo and Juliet.

The members have created separate interest groups that they run within F2F which include a history group, art group and living healthy group.

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On a Saturday they run a cookery group which has now enabled them to budget and shop for the food they cook and to make three course meals independently.

The group have now taken food hygiene courses and run a breakfast club in partnership with Curborough Community centre once a month.

We are constantly raising money by arranging and taking part in events such as sponsored walks, bike rides, coffee mornings, bag packing and carer’s lunches to name but a few.

We are always looking for new members to come along and join our activities.

At Friends 2 Friends everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome and will always have fun - come along and see for yourself.

For more information please contact Alison Wellon on 07800 576 645 or email friends2friends@btinternet.com Our opening times are as follows: Monday 10 - 12pm

Cruck House

Wednesday 2 - 4pm

Curborough Community Centre

Street dance 2.45pm - 3.45pm

Thursday 1 - 3pm

Cruck House

Drama 3 - 4.30pm

Friday 10 -12pm

Cruck House

Saturday & Sunday 10 - 2pm

Cruck House

(Every other Sat 11-3pm Curborough community centre)

Did you know? We have FREE WiFi! • www.thescaleslichfield.co.uk

Lichfield’s No1 Entertainment Venue: 01543 441 931 Bower Weekend Opening Times: Fri/Sat/Sun 10am-4am, Mon 10am-2am

Food serving times Sunday-Friday 10am-3pm Saturday 10am-4pm

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On select ed Main C ourses: St Lasagne, eak All Ham & Eg Day Brunch, Cotta Pie, gs, Fish & ge Pie, Chips, Ban & Mash, R gers oasted Ve g Lasagn burger, Sp e, 6oz icy Bean burger, H Chicken bu ot’n’Kicki rger. n

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The Three Spires Coffee Shop & Internet Cafe offers a relaxing and friendly environment to enjoy a spot of lunch or a snack to go right in the heart of Lichfield City Centre. We have two computers for customers to surf the net whilst enjoying our delicious drinks and food. Why not pop in this Bower Day, have a break and take the weight off?!

tel: 01543 414 312 Open: 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, 10am-4pm Sun

CITY TRADITION KEPT ALIVE

BY BOWER FESTIVITIES...

The Acts requiring this assembly were repealed in the reign of James I, but Lichfield maintained the practice, and its Court of Arraye is now the only surviving continuation of this ancient event. Perhaps the city kept it on simply through a love of tradition - but more likely it was because the Court had become so closely associated with the Bower – a rare opportunity for holiday celebrations and free food.

to their names are invited into the booth and regaled with a cold collation [cold meats and salad], and those who neglect to appear are fined one penny each.”

Accompanied by music and dancing the assembly would then process through the streets “with their gorgeous banners” until the event arrived at the market-place “where the town-clerk thanks them for their attendance, informs them of the several charters and immunities granted to this city, …and advises them to retire peaceably to their homes, and pursue the paths of industry and virtue, that they may always be worthy of the peculiar privileges they enjoy as free-born Englishmen, and inhabitants of this loyal and respectable city.”

Peter Young, Town Clerk

Early records describe how, “the townclerk from a roll calls forth the name of every householder... those who answer

Miniature Fairground Model Show This is a free event where you will see over 20 models of fairground rides and trucks displayed in the Guildhall on Saturday 23rd May 2015 10am - 4pm

Picture reproduced courtesy of the Express and Star

The Court of Arraye, or View of Men and Arms, originated in the early middle age when all the able-bodied men of the town were required to present themselves before the Lord of the Manor. They had to attend with whatever armaments they possessed, and a roll call was taken followed by a military drill-practice. In the days before any regular standing army this was an important means by which the military potential of the country could be assessed, and some basic military training given to the citizens.

After the assembly the rest of the day was given to “sport and pastimes” – which were the origins of the Bower festivities.

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And on a more serious note...

The Lichfield Greenhill Bower celebrations are a real mixture of fun and seriousness. Well, to be honest, these days it’s more fun than serious and the carnival atmosphere that takes over the city on the Bank Holiday draws in crowds from far and wide.

But you don’t have to search too far to find the serious. The Court of Arraye is now part of the fun and the presentations by the Dozeners are often very amusing. Yet you only have to look a little deeper to see how its origins lie in the need to keep our city secure through the police duties of the men at arms. The ceremony takes place in front of the Mayor and other dignitaries so there is also a clear reminder that we have always relied on people to come forward and take responsibility for our common life and our common good. Yes it is all done in the spirit of fun but the fact that it carries on at all is a demonstration of the British character which doesn’t seem to want to take things too seriously and has a tendency to laugh at the things we find most important.

floats will themselves celebrate things that groups and individuals feel are important and which take up a lot of their time and energy. Right in front of us, as they pass, is the mixture of seriousness and fun.

As always the Bower celebrations will include a service at the church of St Michael on Greenhill on Sunday 24th May at 10.00am. This year our church service with its prayers and time for reflection will perhaps be more serious than usual. By the time we come together we will know the results of the elections to be held earlier in May. We will know how our government will be made up and who will be part of it. We will also know who will serve us in our own District Council and City Council. Whoever they are they will take up responsibility to lead us in the challenges that we face as a city, as an area and as a country.

I invite you to come and join us to pray for all our members of parliament and councillors and for ourselves as we celebrate our life in Lichfield and continue together the traditions we have inherited.

Our civic and shared life in Lichfield is very important and the quality of our life together affects us all. A Court of Arraye, a carnival and procession through the streets are all great ways to celebrate what we have and share it with others. Many of the decorated

Bower Church Service Bower Sunday ~ 24th May 2015, 10am at St Michael’s on Greenhill The Bower Church is St Michael’s on Greenhill and as is tradition the Bower Committee, Bower Queen the Mayor, Sheriff and Councillors walk from the Guild Hall to a special service there on Bower Sunday. The procession winds up Greenhill to the church led by a band, and is greeted by The Rector, who is traditionally the Bower Chaplain, and the Church wardens before joining the congregation to bless the Bower and all who take part in it.

Venerable Simon Baker, Rector of St Michael, Archdeacon of Lichfield

The Green Man’s Morris and Sword Club...

This year the club celebrates the 60th year since the revival of the Morris in Lichfield and their involvement with the Lichfield Greenhill Bower procession.

Morris dancing has been at the forefront of the Bower procession for centuries, and Green Man’s Morris has this year reached another milestone, continuing to make a significant contribution to maintaining the Lichfield tradition within the city.

Traditional English morris dancing could have died out but for the intervention of the folk song collector Cecil Sharp who collected many dance traditions in the first decades of the 20th century, however those existing in Lichfield were missed and would have been lost altogether if it were not for chance the discovery of notation for these dances following a performance of Cotswold morris by the Men of Mercia on Bower day 7th June 1954. Subsequently these dances were researched and restored to performance in the city the following year. The Men 36

of Mercia as a side split in 1955 some members transferring to Green Man and who performed in the procession from 1956.

Following subsequent difficulties in always raising a full side for the procession the Morris Ring specifically asked Green Man in 1965 to become custodians of the Lichfield tradition and to ensure morris to be a key part from thereon, and this year sees a half-century for the club in this respect a source of much pride for the members.

Unlike the other traditions the Lichfield dances clearly involved eight dancers with swords and staves plus a musician, originally listed as playing the Pipe and Tabor. Regular payments to ‘the morrice dancers as freeman’ in account books such as that of Lord Gower’s election agent in 1765 support this. For example on 14th January 1795 two guineas were paid to “The Morris for dancing before the chair on Election day”.

The Processional dance as performed today derives from that danced in 1895 by boys from the Midland Truant School tutored by a Mr Charles George who continued

to provide such dancers till supplemented and subsequently replaced by the English Electric Morris dancers from Stafford.

This dance is performed in long columns consisting of two figures where the dancers cross and circle to the tune of the Bower.

There are clear descriptions of the Bower from 1795 and 1798 by John Jackson and Stebbing Shaw (the latter a scholar and county historian) which describe a jolly and exuberant occasion with processions wandering hither and thither throughout the streets during the whole day. The basic processional group according to Shaw consisted of “the highconstables of the city, ten men armed with firelocks, and adorned by ribbons, preceded by eight morrice-dancers, and a fool fantastically dressed, and drums and fifes”.

The day began with a procession from the Guildhall out to Green-hill, where the Bower had been erected. The procession then set out to go to each of the twenty-one wards of the city in turn to summon each petty constable (or dozener) to attend carrying his ‘posy’ or ‘pagent’ (this being a working model of his trade decorated with greenery, and carried on the end of his halberd). The day then ended with a procession from Greenhill to the Market place for speeches and to place their posies in St Mary’s Church.

Welcome to the ladies...

Three Spires Morris have been invited to join Green Man’s Morris and Sword Club again this year as the men celebrate 60 years of leading the Bower.

It will be the second time the women dance the Bower procession, last year being the first time that women have performed the special dance exclusive to Lichfield.

Spot them in their red, yellow and black kit and red clogs.

They practice in Lichfield and frequently dance around the area.

For further information on the side check out their website www.threespiresmorris.com

At this time the event was described as an opportunity for all ranks of people to assemble and spend their time in innocent mirth and hilarity, a day of recreation, gratifying to many, and offensive to none. Not all subsequent descriptions are similarly positive with the Bower being abolished in 1806, to be revived again in 1816. That year the Mercury reported that ‘The Maurice (Moresque) Dancers, dress as fine as ever, and are as good Time-ists at a tune. The musical part of the custom is no doubt much improved; nor do we conceive that the drinking practice is at all deteriorated.”

Green man’s Morris and the other local sides involved with the procession, Three Spires Morris and the Lichfield Morris Men always welcome new members as dancers or musicians. For more information visit www.greenmanmorris.org.uk 37

Messages from our 2014 Bower Queen and Deputy

Being crowned Bower Queen by the Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor Norma Bacon, and supporting the Bower throughout the day was a wonderful experience and it will be a day which I will cherish.

It was a pleasure to be crowned Lichfield Mercury’s Deputy Bower Queen for 2014. I have experienced a fantastic year alongside Bower Queen, Bethany Daire and achieved many goals which I aimed to complete.

By supporting local businesses and charity fund-raising events, this has enabled me to meet some great people and have an even deeper involvement in the local community. I have been involved with many of Lichfield’s traditions, for example, the switching on of the Christmas Lights, the Mayor’s Christmas Carol Service and the annual cutting of the Erasmus Darwin cake.

Particularly, I enjoyed running in the Great Midlands Fun Run for Pancreatic Cancer UK as this was a new challenge in aid of a cause close to my heart.

I am greatly honoured to have been able to have this opportunity and I hope in some way to continue to support the Lichfield Bower and its committee.

I would just like to take this opportunity to thank the Bower Committee, particularly the Bower Queen organiser Kath Marks for supporting me through the year and the tremendous work they do to ensure that Bower tradition continues.

I recommend anyone who has a love for Lichfield and enthusiasm to support the Lichfield Bower to enter as I have experienced many opportunities that I would not have been able to previously.

Bethany Daire, 2014 Bower Queen

Also, I have had many highlights over the past year including: the honour of attending the Bower Ball, acknowledging Erasmus Darwin’s birthday, touring the Birds of Prey site in Lichfield and appearing for the switch on of the Christmas lights.

Personally, I will always have fond memories of the Bower procession as this was an amazing experience and the presence of so many people coming to celebrate the day was truly uplifting.

I would like to send special thanks to the Bower Committee for their continued dedication and support and hope they have every success on Bower Day. Finally, I wish all the best to the new Bower Queen and her Deputy as I have no doubt they will have a wonderful year filled with endless opportunities and experiences.

Abigail Skidmore, 2014 Deputy Bower Queen 39

Entries excepted for our forthcoming sales Fine & Important Jewellery, Watches & Silver Sale Our Prestigious Evening Country Home & Interiors Sale Fine Wine, Whisky & Spirits Sale Stamps, Postal History, Books, Maps & Manuscripts Sale

Richard Winterton Auctioneers are delighted to sponsor the Lichfield Bower Jewellery, Silver, Gold & Watches Every Monday-Friday 9am-12pm Coins & Medals Every Monday 9am-12pm Toys, Dinky Cars, Die Cast & Trains Every Monday 9.30am-12pm General Valuations Every Tuesday 9.30am-4.30pm New Weekly Asian Art Valuation with Expert Alexander Clement Every Tuesday 9.30am-4pm

Asian Art, Ceramica & Works of Art Sale Cameras, Musical & Scientific Instruments, Mechanical Music Sale Medals, Militaria & Coins Sale The Vintage Sale Toys, Dinky, Corgi, Diecast & Trains Sale Home Visits Available Specialists in House Clearance & Downsizing Solutions Probate/Insurance Valuations 01543 251081 lichfield@richardwinterton.co.uk www.richardwinterton.co.uk

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SKATING VOUCHER

Available only on SKATE UK courses before 01/10/14. Courses must be pre-booked. Cannot be used online, please call us to book your place or speak to a 30th only. The or Intensive 5 day courses.

BRINGING OUR LADS HOME AND CELEBRATING THEM!

Here, Joss Musgrove Knibb, Lichfield author and deputy editor of the Lichfield Gazette, talks about the extraordinary men of the Staffordshire Regiment who fought, and in some cases died in the trenches of WW1.

Almost two years ago I was asked by local publishing house Gazelle Press to write a book on WW1. Within this general subject matter I was given a pretty free hand, but I knew that I wanted to celebrate the courage and service of Staffordshire Regiment men, and the often overlooked sacrifice of their wives and families at home.

Lichfield Author Joss Musgrove

This led me to the archives of the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, and to months spent reading and deciphering letters and documents - listening to the ghostly voices of local lads who fought, and in many cases died in the trenches of WW1.

It was here that I came across Second-Lieutenant Alfred Bull of Lichfield, Sergeant Sydney Norton of Tamworth, Sergeant James Stevenson of StokeSecond-Lieutenant Alfred Bull

42

on-Trent and Captain Jake Armes, who was in the front lines on the evening of December 24th 1914, and witnessed for himself the Christmas Truce.

‘First Lines’ is a collection of the letters, stories and first-hand accounts of these men.

Alfred Bull was born at number 27 Dam Street, Lichfield in 1896. Alf’s energy, tenacity and cool resolve see him promoted time and again. His account covers the day-to-day incidents of trench life, and also ferocious engagements such as the battle of St Quentin Canal, part of the offensive that led directly to the end of the war.

Armes who witnessed the Christmas Truce of 1914.

It has been a privilege to get to know Alf, Syd, James and Jake. The years that they gave up are the building blocks of our society.

And we will remember them.

Sydney Norton was 31 years old in 1915 and left behind a wife and three children when he went to France. Syd is a charming man - brave, irreverent, affectionate and courageous. He is exactly the kind of man you want next to you in a fight.

James Stevenson is an efficient and courageous soldier with the heart of a poet. When we meet him, he has already endured three years in and out of the front line. Despite this he still has hope.

Finally, First Lines includes an extraordinary letter written by Captain Reginald (Jake)

First Lines is available at WH Smith, St Mary’s in the Market Square, Emporium Gallery, The Staffordshire Regiment Museum, The National Memorial Arboretum and amazon.co.uk The book retails at £9.99.

To contact Joss Musgrove Knibb email gazetteeditorial@hotmail.co.uk

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The Procession Route Disabled Parking Shaw Lane

R TE NS MI OOL P

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Bower Day Procession Timetable 11.45am

THE PROCESSION will leave Cherry Orchard for the Guildhall via Sturgeon’s

Hill, Rotten Row, Greenhill, Tamworth Street and Bore Street.

12.00 noon

THE LICHFIELD MERCURY BOWER QUEEN will be crowned by the Right

Worshipful, The Mayor of Lichfield, in front of The Guildhall.

PROCESSION ROUTE: Cherry Orchard, turn left into Sturgeon’s Hill, Rotten Row, Greenhill, Tamworth

Street, Bore Street, left into St. John Street, left into Wade Street, right into Frog Lane, right into St. John Street, left into The Friary, right into Swan Road, left into Queen Street, Walsall Road, right into Lower Sandford Street, left into Swan Road, left into Bird Street, right into the Close, right into Dam Street, Conduit Street, left into Tamworth Street to Greenhill where the Mayor will take the salute.

MORRIS DANCERS

Green Man’s Morris and Sword Club, Three Spires Morris plus guests.

LEAD BAND

Air Cadet Organisation Marching Band.

Thank You! Anthony Harris & The Pat Collins Fair

46

for their continuing support and generosity to the Lichfield Greenhill Bower

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