‘I don’t think people will have seen anything like this,’ he said during a break from rehearsals, ‘We’ve used all manner of imagery and some really clever ideas to create a moving set that allows us to work with the story, which really moves on at a fast pace. It’s a production that stays true to Shakespeare’s work and I think the audience will love it.’ patrick connellan with a model of his stage design
man facing some terrible choices and life-threatening situations. So there’s plenty of twists and turns; our mission is to tell it in a way that grabs audiences and keeps them on the edge of their seats. I think People will feel very engaged and connected with the way we tell the story.’
CONTENTS
and flair to your home. Here are some of the ways those simple lines can transform even the plainest of rooms into something lovingly lavish.
Advertising enquiries
Lisa Cuthbert - Sales Manager
Tel: 01543 401204
Email: info@thecannocklocal.co.uk
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Editorial enquiries
Jennifer Dellicompagni - Editor
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The July 2025 edition of The Cannock Local will be distributed during July to 10,000 homes and businesses in selected areas of Cannock.
If you wish to place an advert or editorial feature, please ensure copy is submitted to us no later than 10/07/2025.
Please note: All information was correct at time of printing but may be subject to changes.
Paint pals
JUNE
2025
In the same way that vertical stripes on a dress can make you appear longer and slimmer, they can make a room appear taller and more spacious.
Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club
Cloudy2Clear Windows
Crossword puzzle
One of the main visual themes of the production is books; moving bookcases float across the stage, closing in on the young prince as the story unfolds. Patrick added: ‘We’ve been working on the set for months and I have to say that this production is very detailed and clever in the use of space, sound and lighting.’
go wrong with striped wallpaper. Choose wallpapers with strong stripe patterns to create a striking effect.
Property of the month with Dourish and Day
Choose contrasting colours for a dramatic effect or subtle tones for a more elegant look. Horizontal stripes on the other hand are perfect for making a room look wider and more expansive. This is ideal for smaller spaces that need a visual boost.
National Trust Staffordshire Centre Upcoming Talk
This works well in hallways or small rooms where you want to make an impact.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity
Stage Set for A Stunning Hamlet
Just Brilliant June Reads
Recipe of the month
Charity Excited to Announce Return of Inclusive Walk
Stripe It Lucky
Kids Puzzle Page
Around 5,000 people are e pected to attend the stafford gatehouse theatre production, from June 24 to July 5. Stafford Grammar School has been announced as the headline sponsor and Marketing Manager Keith Harrison said: ‘We’re delighted to be partnering with such a prestigious Stafford school. Bringing the bard to new generations is at the centre of our mission and seeing his work on stage is by far the best way to e perience the thrill of his work. it’s going to be something really special.’
As a simpler variation, understated stripes can add texture and interest without overwhelming the space.
Soft stripes
Tickets from the Bo Office 01785 619080 or www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk
Stripes aren’t just for your walls. Chairs, sofas, and
Alternatively, select just one wall to draw focus on and make it wonderful.
Please note: Opening nig t performance SOLD O
Wallpaper wonders Wallpaper is much cooler than it used to be and stripes, well they are always on trend; therefore, you can’t
simply invest in a few throws or pillows for a more informal feel.
Earn your stripes
Wall art that features stripes is a terrific way to brighten up a dull and gloomy room, particularly if it is textured using different paint styles or fabrics.
You can also invest in lamps and shades that boast a
We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in The Cannock Local magazine, and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibilty for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written consent of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibilty for views expressed by contributors, or the accuracy of claims made by advertisers.
@shoutlocalstaffordshire Shout Local Staffordshire
The Cannock Local is part of Shout Local Media Ltd.
Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club
May’s entertainment was provided by Penny Wheat, an experienced public speaker of over 20 years. Amusingly, her talk focused on the very topic of the perils of public speaking. Penny’s talks span a wide range of subjects, from The Craft of the Silversmith and Dig It (gardening and plants), to From Behind Bars and The Perils of a Public Speaker.
Despite 36 years teaching silversmithing and jewellery, and being a published author, Penny confessed that getting lost en route to venues has been a recurring theme, making it a miracle she ever arrives on time!
Her wide interests include cricket, gardening, music, literature, theatre and current affairs. She also volunteers in the chaplaincy team at a local prison and is a member of a pastoral care group. One amusing incident stemmed from her 30 years as a prison visitor: while preparing to speak to a Housing Association, she mistakenly brought props such as pliers, saws and mallets... items meant for another talk. The audience had expected a talk on visiting men in prison!
On another occasion, she turned up at the wrong school to give a presentation to the Brownies. Penny can laugh about these mishaps now, sharing them with warmth and humour.
At Chase Golf & Country Club, members enjoyed her treasure chest of props, including one tapered, oval item that baffled everyone. It turned out to be a tiny ‘etui’—a decorative case containing scissors, bodkin and thimble.
The Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club meets the first Thursday of each month, 12 noon, at Chase Golf Club. Retired or semi-retired professional or businesswomen are welcome. Annual membership £16; two-course lunch £22.
For more information, call Barbara on 01889 882 166 or Anne on 01922 418 037. Next talk is 5th June: Kate Daws – Pen Drawing for Well Being bring a black pen.
Your new local Nissan main dealer
Celebrating 100 years with dealerships across Staffordshire, Shropshire & North Wales, W R Davies are delighted to now cover Cannock, Rugeley, Cheslyn Hay, Penkridge, Heath Hays and all of the surrounding local village communities.
CROSS WORD PUZZLE
Solve the clues to this straight crossword.
ACROSS
5. Providing or obtaining food (9)
8. Plant used for flavouring (4)
9. Having the ability to attract (8)
10. To extend (7)
11. A condition (5)
13. Excessive pride (5)
15. Those who suffer from harmful event (7)
18. To increase (8)
19. Without covering, exposed (4)
20. Assigned to a lower position (9)
DOWN
1. A thin film of soapy water (6)
2. A facial expression showing discomfort (7)
3. Male deer (5)
4. Secret (6)
6. A luxurious apartment (9)
7. A natural, often permanent mark (9)
12. Container used for holding burning coals (7)
14. Fashioned into a specific form (6)
16. A small, flat electronic device (6)
17. Cooked by dry heat (5)
1 Suthard Way
Hednesford, Cannock, WS12 4WT
290,000 FREEHOLD
You’ll think you’re in heaven with this divine family home enjoying a truly convenient location!! Having an array of amenities all close to hand ranging from popular local schooling, walking distance to the market high street of Hednesford, bus routes, train station, local nature reserves, Beau Desert including the golf course and the famous Cannock Chase. Enjoying this pleasant corner plot with a driveway providing off road parking, entrance hall and guest W/c, Smart kitchen diner, dual aspect large lounge, three bedrooms with an en suite to the master and a first floor bathroom.
National Trust Staffordshire Centre Upcoming Talk
The Staffordshire Centre’s programme of talks at Walton Village Hall in Stafford continues on June 10th. There is no need to book in advance, just turn up at the door and pay as you go in. However, it would help the organisers if you book your place(s) on our website https:// www.ntstafford.org.uk/ go to Events-Talks -Book a Talk.
All talks start at 2.30 pm and you do not have to be a member of the Centre to attend. Admission is £4.50 for non-members of the Centre and talks are followed by tea and biscuits.
Unpicking The Thread – June 10th
A Talk by Shaun
Farrelly
We are all so familiar with sewing machines that we probably cannot imagine a time when all sewing and dressmaking and tailoring was
done by hand. The invention of the sewing machine changed all that and heralded the age of the clothing industry as we now know it.
Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast, a history buff, or just curious about how things work, this engaging talk will have you hooked. Who really invented the sewing machine?
Join us to find out – you might just be surprised!
To keep up with our future events, watch out for us in these pages or check out our Events page at https://www.ntstafford.org.uk/
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s Patient Liaison Service Reaches Record Milestone
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, the lifesaving emergency service has achieved a new milestone.
The charity’s patient liaison and aftercare service has now received more than 100 responses to its patient and relative feedback surveys which were introduced in April 2024. The surveys enable people to leave their feedback which is used to further improve the patient care that Midlands Air Ambulance Charity provides.
Through these surveys, patients and their families can also be put in direct contact with the clinicians who treated them or their loved one, with many wishing to say thanks for the lifesaving care they received. The patient liaison and after care service provides invaluable emotional and practical support to those who have been involved in life-changing incidents and their families.
Kerry Hemus, patient liaison lead and critical care paramedic for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity said: “We are dedicated to provided outstanding care to our patients and their loved ones, this is why we offer a dedicated patient liaison and aftercare service that supports our past and present patients through their recovery as well as provide help for bereaved families through their grief.”
Together, Kerry and her colleague Rob Davies are available to offer support, information about patients’ incidents and signpost to additional support services. They can be
contacted via email: patient.liaison midlandsairambulance . com or by calling the charity’s headquarters on 0800 8 40 20 40.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity serves the largest air ambulance region in the UK. This includes the communities of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, and Worcestershire, representing a population in excess of six million. The charity responds to an average of 4,300 missions each year.
Each year it costs £16million just to keep the three charity helicopters and fleet of critical care cars operational. Each air ambulance mission costs £2,950 on average and each critical care car mission costs £288, which is entirely funded by the generosity of the public and local businesses.
To find out more about Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s patient liaison and aftercare service, please visit: midlandsairambulance.com/ missions/patient-liaison-service.
For more information on the vital work of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, visit midlandsairambulance.com.
stage is set for a stunning hamlet
Stafford’s annual Shakespeare production opens on June 24 and the designer behind the ‘visually stunning’ production can’t wait for the opening night.
Award-winning Patrick Connellan, who has previously worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, says audiences can ‘e pect the une pected’ from The Bard’s most quoted play.
‘I don’t think people will have seen anything like this,’ he said during a break from rehearsals, ‘We’ve used all manner of imagery and some really clever ideas to create a moving set that allows us to work with the story, which really moves on at a fast pace. It’s a production that stays true to Shakespeare’s work and I think the audience will love it.’
patrick connellan with a model of his stage design
Director Richard Cheshire added: ‘It’s modern, but not gimmicky in any way; there’s nobody using a mobile phone or anything like that. the characters are more relatable in modern dress, but the strength of Hamlet is its story you go on this gripping journey with a young man facing some terrible choices and life-threatening situations. So there’s plenty of twists and turns; our mission is to tell it in a way that grabs audiences and keeps them on the edge of their seats. I think People will feel very engaged and connected with the way we tell the story.
’
One of the main visual themes of the production is books; moving bookcases float across the stage, closing in on the young prince as the story unfolds. Patrick added: ‘We’ve been working on the set for months and I have to say that this production is very detailed and clever in the use of space, sound and lighting.’
Around 5,000 people are e pected to attend the stafford gatehouse theatre production, from June 24 to July 5. Stafford Grammar School has been announced as the headline sponsor and Marketing Manager Keith Harrison said: ‘We’re delighted to be partnering with such a prestigious Stafford school. Bringing the bard to new generations is at the centre of our mission and seeing his work on stage is by far the best way to e perience the thrill of his work. it’s going to be something really special.’ Tickets from the Bo Office 01785 619080 or www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk
Please note: Opening nig t performance SOLD O
Just Brilliant June Reads
This month we take in fact and fiction, from the Caribbean to Long Island, across the Atlantic and towards the Steel City.
Shiny Happy Singles by Lucy Meggeson (June 19th)
Part investigation, part celebration, Shiny Happy Singles explores what it means to thrive as a single, childfree women in a world that insists happiness only comes in pairs.
left off 15 years ago, Ned Boulting’s love for cycling has deepened further, as is evident in a brilliant book that takes us behind the scenes at races across Europe, the Middle East, to China, Malaysia and around Italy.
It is a book that invites women everywhere to embrace their independence, let go of shame and live fabulously.
The Accidental Tour-ist by Ned Boulting (June 19th)
Picking up where his bestselling memoir
Long Island by Colm Tóibín (June 5th)
A Book of the Year everywhere from The Times to The New Yorker, The Economist to The Daily Telegraph, Long Island is a love story for the ages torn apart by a stranger and a revelation that needs to be embraced or discarded, and quickly.
Shipwrecks
of the Outer Banks by James D Charlet (June 7th)
More than 6,000 ships have met their doom in the waters along the North Carolina coast, weaving a rich history of tragedy, drama and heroics along these picturesque beaches.
These are the stories of daring rescues, tragic failures and enduring mysteries.
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Begin your next chapter in a warm, welcoming home where you’ll receive care with dignity and kindness. Whether for a short stay or longer term, our cosy care homes offer quality care, peace of mind for you and your family, delicious meals, and activities to support your wellbeing, day and night.
To find out more, please speak to one of our friendly team.
Angela Nilsen’s Summer Pudding
Author of The Cake Decorator’s Bible, Angela Nilsen, offers this stunning take on a classic British pud.
Method
1. Hull the strawberries and cut them in halves or quarters. Strip the blackcurrants and redcurrants – keep both the currants separate from the other fruits.
2. Tip the sugar into a wide, not too deep, saucepan. Measure in 3 tbsp water and the cassis. Put the pan on a low heat and cook, stirring often, until you can no longer hear the crunch of sugar grains on the bottom of the pan. Next turn up the heat to medium-high and let the mixture bubble away for about 8 minutes. Let it go syrupy but don’t let it change colour or caramelise.
3. Tip the blackcurrants and redcurrants into the hot syrup, then bring everything back up to a lively simmer and let it bubble again for no more than a minute, just to lightly burst and soften the currants without
losing their shape. Take the pan off the heat.
4. Gently stir in the strawberries and raspberries – a large metal spoon is best so they don’t break up – and let the fruity mixture sit for about half an hour so the juices all mix in.
5. Trim crusts off bread. Cut a little square (about 4cm) from one slice and put it in the bottom of a 1.2 litre pudding basin. Using a big, slotted spoon, put a layer of fruit (about 3 spoonfuls) over the bread. Next lay a slice of bread in the centre over the fruit trimming to fit and fill any gaps with trimmings of bread so the fruit is covered. Continue layering with more fruit, more bread,
then a final layer of fruit. Spoon over a few spoonfuls of juice. Cover the fruit with a final layer of bread, press down to compact everything, cover with cling film, and put a weighty cover over the top. Leave in the fridge overnight.
6. To turn out, go round the edge of the pudding with a round-bladed knife to release it, then invert it on to a plate. Enjoy!
CreditGoodHousekeep
Charity Excited to Announce the Return of its Inclusive Memory walk
Katharine House Hospice’s Walk to Remember will take place on Saturday 13th September at Shugborough Estate. People registering before Friday, 27 June, will receive an early bird discount of just £12.50 per ticket.
Last year, nearly 600 people walked together in memory of their loved ones, making the event feel exceptional and creating a terrific atmosphere. It is hoped that even more people will join the walk this year.
Michelle Walters, who joined the walk in 2024, said: “It was a great walk and lovely to see such support. I walked in memory of my Dad, George, and my sister Karen, who was cared for by the hospice. The staff are angels on earth.”
Participant Jane Reed also praised the walk, saying: “It was a wonderful event, beautiful location, and a lovely way to remember family and friends.”
While Katie Nixon commented “It was like being part of something really special.”
Open to all ages, abilities, and dogs, participants will follow a beautiful 5k route through stunning grounds along the banks of the rivers Sow and Trent, and past the majestic ancestral home of the Anson family, Shugborough Hall.
Katharine House Hospice’s Events Fundraiser, Lyndsey Howard, said: “After a successful event last year, we’re thrilled to see the return of Walk to Remember. The event gives our community the chance to come together to celebrate and remember someone special while also raising much-needed funds for the hospice. We can’t thank our sponsor Millar Sandy Commercial Property Surveyors enough for supporting us and ensuring we could go ahead this year.”
Hayley Mival, General Manager, Shugborough Estate said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Katharine House Hospice back to Shugborough Estate for their Walk to Remember. The walk will take place around the Grade 1 listed grounds, and participants will be able to enjoy seasonal highlights as they walk in memory of their loved ones.”
To book visit www.khhospice.org.uk/walk
Register before Friday 27th June for an early bird discounted rate of just £12.50. Children aged 12 years and under are free. Full price entry of £15 will apply from Saturday 28th June.
www.thecannocklocal.co.uk
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Stripe It Lucky
Stripes not only make a great fashion statement, but they can also add style and flair to your home. Here are some of the ways those simple lines can transform even the plainest of rooms into something lovingly lavish.
Paint pals
In the same way that vertical stripes on a dress can make you appear longer and slimmer, they can make a room appear taller and more spacious.
Choose contrasting colours for a dramatic effect or subtle tones for a more elegant look. Horizontal stripes on the other hand are perfect for making a room look wider and more expansive. This is ideal for smaller spaces that need a visual boost.
Alternatively, select just one wall to draw focus on and make it wonderful.
Wallpaper wonders Wallpaper is much cooler than it used to be and stripes, well they are always on trend; therefore, you can’t
go wrong with striped wallpaper. Choose wallpapers with strong stripe patterns to create a striking effect.
This works well in hallways or small rooms where you want to make an impact.
As a simpler variation, understated stripes can add texture and interest without overwhelming the space.
Soft stripes
Stripes aren’t just for your walls. Chairs, sofas, and benches with striped fabric can become a talking point in your home, while striped rugs can be used to add colour and cover up a dull or stained floor.
Striped curtains can frame your windows beautifully and add vertical emphasis to the room, or if you don’t want to fully commit to the stripe, simply invest in a few throws or pillows for a more informal feel.
Earn your stripes
Wall art that features stripes is a terrific way to brighten up a dull and gloomy room, particularly if it is textured using different paint styles or fabrics.
You can also invest in lamps and shades that boast a
funky pattern to liven up a drab bedroom, or those with a more gallic inclination can purchase linen tablecloths, runners or napkins to add that classic French elegance.
Mix and match
Combine floral patterns with stripes for a balanced and more feminine feel. Stripes paired with geometric shapes will make your space feel supremely cool and modern, whereas those in differing shades of the same colour are more subtle, for those who prefer a more understated look.
Colour wise, bold tones add energy and style, muted numbers add a more timeless feel (for the traditionalist), and contrasting colours are for the quirkiest among us, or die-hard Austin Powers fans. Groovy baby!
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That’s all there is to it! You solve the puzzle with reasoning logic– there’s no maths involved and no adding up.
Penkridge Juniors Turns 40
Join Us for a Fun-Filled Celebration Day!
Penkridge Junior Football Club is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and to celebrate we’ll be hosting a huge Fun Day in Penkridge which we invite you all to join!
On Saturday the 14th June, we’ll be hosting a full day of celebrations at the Monkton Sports & Recreation Centre, with activities, entertainment, and more starting from 11am in the morning running all the way through to 11pm in the evening. The day will feature exciting exhibition matches, live bands in the evening, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Adult tickets are only £5 each, and children can join in the festivities for FREE!
Founded in 1985 by a group of local dads, Penkridge Juniors FC began with a simple goal: to provide a place for their children to play football. Fast forward to today, and the club has grown into a thriving, FA-accredited community hub. Over the past decade, we’ve seen significant growth, including the development of Penkridge’s first 3G pitch at Penkridge Leisure Centre, thanks to our partnership with Wolgarston High School and the Staffs FA.
Today, with over 80 volunteers across 24 teams, Penkridge Juniors FC supports more than 300 children, from our under-7s to our under-17s. We’ve produced incredible talent over the years,
including Gemma Lawley, who now plays for Birmingham City Ladies.
As we mark our 40th anniversary, we’re excited for the future, and our long-term goal is to find a permanent home for the club. Every penny raised at our fun day will go toward making this dream a reality! We hope you’ll join us in celebrating everything we’ve achieved and help us continue to grow in the years to come.
For more information and to book your tickets, please visit our website: www.pjfc.co.uk/40thanniversary-funday
