Archive

  • Plea for Rovers' lease

    A PLEA for the district council to grant Bromsgrove Rovers a new long-term lease on their Victoria Ground came this week from the leader of the Labour group in a bid to save the club from folding. Cllr Peter McDonald (Uffdown and Waseley) has put forward

  • Child escort fears

    SOME escort drivers who transport vulnerable youngsters to Worcestershire's schools may not have been vetted by the education authority, it has been revealed. County councillors expressed their concern after they also heard that not all of the escorts

  • 50 jobs to be lost

    WORKERS at Kidderminster's British Sugar factory have been dealt a bitter blow with the announcement it is to close. More than 50 jobs will go as the Stourport Road operation is relocated to Allscott, near Shrewsbury, in 2002. The 52 full-time staff will

  • Jail term for shop raid man

    A SHOP raider trapped by saliva on his home-made mask has been jailed for three years. Scott Mainland and two accomplices stole cigarettes worth more than £3,000 after burgling two neighbouring premises on the same night. They escaped in a stolen rally

  • Ace Alex takes the plaudits at presentation bonanza

    BROMSGROVE Olympique Cycling Club's prize presentation evening was well supported last Saturday at the DDS and S Club where chips, beer and skittles were on the menu -- back to the diet and more training next week! Alex Billington was the most prolific

  • 58 PREGNANT SHEEP MUTILATED BY TRAIN

    DROITWICH Spa's railway line was a grim scene of carnage on Monday when a train ploughed into 58 pregnant ewes. It is believed to be the worst accident of its kind in living memory. The track was closed for more than 13 hours after the empty passenger

  • Schools will play a part

    I WRITE in response to A Lewis' letter "Teach youngsters to be tidier" (Advertiser, January 10). My thanks go to A Lewis for reminding readers about litter and rubbish in the borough. With regard to the work of schools, we are happy to report schools

  • Youngsters need the skate park

    IN response to Don Vincent's letter (Advertiser, January 17) I would like to defend the town's youth, whom he claims are 'undeserving'. Many youngsters are staying at home, some seeking entertainment by vandalism, others leaving the town to go to the

  • Thanks for a grand total

    THE trustees of the Primrose Hospice and Cancer Help Centre have asked me to write on their behalf to express our gratitude for the support you and your staff gave to the Tree of Lights appeal at Christmas. It was a great success again this year and the

  • Good job in trying times

    I FEEL I just have to support First Midland Red after the vicious attack by Councillor Andy Fry, which was, in my opinion, totally arrogant and uncalled for. Perhaps Mr Fry ought to try the job for a while before wagging his tongue so much. The buses

  • 24/1/01 - Council deny stalling on Rovers new lease

    BROMSGROVE District Council have denied claims that they are stalling on granting troubled Bromsgrove Rovers a new lease on their Victoria Ground home. The club faces a winding-up order in Liverpool on Monday from HM Customs and Excise, who are demanding

  • Pupils learning business craft

    HOT on the heels of Richard Branson and Bill Gates are budding entrepreneurs from a Rubery school. Sixteen pupils from Waseley Hills High School's sixth form have launched a company. They are taking part in a national initiative called Young Enterprise

  • Dunlop dump Redditch at the foot of the table

    REDDITCH were dumped to the foot of the Midlands Four West South table at the weekend after their fixture fell victim to the weather. With the Bromsgrove Road pitch frozen the match against fourth-placed Southam was postponed. And basement boys Dunlop

  • Kings aim for revival

    KINGS Norton face a do-or-die fixture against Old Leamingtonians on Saturday. The bottom side have to record their first win of the season to kick-start their bid for Midlands Three West South survival. The club are appealing against a six point ban for

  • Redditch Exiles share the spoils

    Dudley Kingswinford 15 Redditch Exiles 15 IN one of few games to survive, Exiles visited National Division Three side DK and came close to a first win of the year. DK were dominant in the line outs but unable to turn possession into points. Keith Morgan

  • Ad star set for opening

    The star of Halifax's most recent television advertisements will be coming to Redditch on Friday to officially launch the opening of the newly refurbished Evesham Walk branch. Howard Brown, who sings along to Tom Jones' hit Sexbomb on the advert, will

  • Car fire calls for station

    Redditch firefighters were called to two car fires during the evening on Monday. The first happened at about 5.40pm outside a house in Snowshill Close, Church Hill North. The second happened just before 11pm, when a stolen Vauxhall Vectra was set alight

  • Head calls for parent power

    A headteacher is urging parents to write to ministers over the plight of Redditch schools being 'neglected and underfunded', writes Melina Cannon. The call comes as Carol Buchanan, head of St Augustine's Catholic High School, Hunt End, and fellow heads

  • Dog's tale ends well

    A WOMAN who was lost her dog when he escaped after a car crash in Studley has been reunited with him. Laura Lello, 30, of Northfield, was involved in a two-car collision at The Slough, Studley, at about 4.15pm on Saturday with her two dogs, Rottweiler

  • Fraser's plight inspires £35,000

    A COUPLE whose son is being treated for Leukaemia have raised a staggering £35,000 for research into the condition, writes Becky Procter. Rowena and Craig Bales, of Rowney Green, will be handing over half of the money to leukaemia research at Birmingham

  • Site visit to aid decision on farm use

    A SITE visit to a Beoley special school has been carried out following controversy over a planning application. Skilts School, on Gorcott Hill, is worried that a change of use for buildings at a neighbouring farm could threaten pupils' safety The school

  • Flood victims in bid for cash

    ALVECHURCH residents are seeking compensation for damage caused by sewage water which flooded their homes from a blocked drain, writes Melina Cannon. Four family homes and about eight flats occupied by elderly and disabled residents at Buckleys Green

  • Threat to library denied by council

    FEARS that a Wythall library was set for closure have been quashed by a County Council spokesman, writes Matt Smith. Parish Councillors were concerned that the library in May Lane, Hollywood would close after £11,000 worth of damage was caused in one

  • Daytime thieves

    THIEVES stole £3,600 worth of goods from a house in Foxlydiate Lane, Webheath, between 9.30am and 6pm on Thursday. Items taken included a lap top computer, jewellery, a Hi Fi and a camcorder.

  • Free electric for OAPs

    Midlands-based gas and electricity supplier npower is offering Redditch pensioners the equivalent of seven days' free electricity until the end of January. The company has more than 41,000 customers in Redditch, with an estimated 10,000 eligible pensioner

  • Back to school for musical MP

    REDDITCH MP Jacqui Smith will unveil the latest in music technology at the opening of Arrow Vale Community High School's new Yamaha Music School on Saturday, writes Melina Cannon. The music school is one of 40 state partnerships being launched by Yamaha

  • Shorter hours on cards for students

    GOVERNORS at St Augustine's High School are proposing to alter the times of the school day from September. The proposed school day would run from 9am-3.35pm instead of 9.15am-3.55pm and incorporate slight internal adjustments, such as a shorter lunch

  • Forces unite to tackle car fires

    SENIOR police and fire officers have held the first in a series of meetings to tackle the town's serious problem with deliberate car fires, writes Julian Seva. Chief Insp Dave Willetts and Station Officer Richard Lawrence met recently in a bid to find

  • Souvenirswanted by old pupils

    FORMER pupils of a doomed Redditch high school are being asked to provide photographs and memorabilia to produce a handbook before the school shuts. Bridley Moor High School opened as a secondary modern in 1953 before becoming a comprehensive. But the

  • Jewels and stereo taken

    Electrical equipment, including a stereo system and a video camera, were stolen from a house in Church Hill between 7.30am and 8.30pm on Tuesday, January 16. A jewellery box containing £1,500 worth of jewellery was also stolen from the house in Edgeworth

  • Revamp for reviled site

    A BLOT on the landscape in Studley is to be redeveloped as a block of 12 flats if plans are given permission, writes Julian Seva. The disused petrol station site in Alcester Road is being sought by Tamworth-based developer Thornton Baker Homes. At a Studley

  • Houses site visit

    A SITE visit will take place to inspect the grounds of five new homes in Headless Cross after a heated debate by councillors and residents. At the Town Hall last Tuesday residents near the planned site just off Burns Close put forward their concerns over

  • Prize Jag stolen by thieves

    A silver Jaguar XJS worth £16,000 was stolen from a house in Alcester Road, Wythall, between 6.15am and 9.25am on Monday. Police said the car keys were stolen after thieves entered the house.

  • Drill tower flattened for rebuild

    The drill tower used by fire crews in Studley is to be demolished and a new one built. Studley parish councillors supported the application at a meeting last week.

  • A road by any other name...

    WHAT'S in a name? That was what Redditch councillors met to discuss last night as they looked to overhaul the council's road naming policy, writes Julian Seva. Now a list of historical names for newly built roads is to be drawn up following councillors

  • Breaking free from fear

    ONE day 10 years ago, David Burt left his parents' house in Plymouth Road for a short walk around the corner to post a letter, writes Julian Seva. It turned out to be a life-changing walk which would finally open his eyes to a serious problem which had

  • Roundabout is 'still not safe'

    A "DANGEROUS" roundabout near Droitwich, where cars have careered off the road into signs and which has failed safety tests, has still not been altered after nine months. Wychavon district councillor Andrew Christian-Brookes (Con, Lovett), who highlighted

  • Blazing success

    TEENAGERS are fired up about the opening of a branch of one of the country's fastest growing youth organisations. The Young Firefighters' Association, which offers young people the chance to learn about the fire brigade, is due to hold its first official

  • Teen admits arson attack

    FAMILIES had to be evacuated from their homes after a 19-year-old man began a blaze inside a car next to a house, a court heard. The fire spread to a carport and then to property in Meadow Road, Droitwich Spa. Firebug Lee Williamson, of no fixed address

  • Have your say on canal plan

    HUNDREDS are expected to give their views on the future development of the Droitwich Spa Canal Basin in a two-day consultation exercise. Wychavon District Council expects a huge turnout at the meetings this Friday and Saturday when the Local Plan, which

  • Supermarket raiders jailed

    A BURGLAR who smashed his way into a Droitwich Spa supermarket was then involved in a 100mph car chase with police, a court heard yesterday. Andrew Leary and an accomplice used a concrete block to force their way into Kwik Save, in the Saltway, where

  • Closure date is announced

    A MOTORISED transport scheme for old and disabled residents is closing because of an apathetic response. Droitwich Spa Shopmobility, based in Droitwich Spa Indoor Market, will close its doors on Friday February 23. It opened a year ago and boasts a wide

  • Harriers warned by boss Molby

    KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Jan Molby is warning his mid-table side to stay clear of the Division Three strugglers after last night's 2-1 defeat at Mansfield Town. Molby saw his side throw away a 17th minute debut goal by striker Drewe Broughton in a

  • Second Sixways injury setback

    WORCESTER Rugby Club have been dealt a second injury blow in as many days with the news that Greg Meredith is out for the rest of the season. The centre, who is regarded as a big prospect for the future, injured his knee in Worcester under-21s' recent

  • City duo sign contracts

    PROMISING Worcester City youngsters Paul Wyatt and Jamie Hyde have signed extensions to their contracts. Manager John Barton has been delighted with the progress of goalkeeper Wyatt and winger Hyde, who have come through the ranks at St George's Lane.

  • Stourport switches rewarded with win

    A TRIPLE substitution paid dividends for Stourport Swifts who duly netted three second half goals to win 4-0 in last night's home Midland Alliance match with Cradley Town. It took their unbeaten run to six games. Lee Booth hit the bar early on before

  • Bard takes a trip to Tinseltown

    Break-a-Leg Theatre Group will be taking its first tentative steps into the world of Shakespeare when its members perform an adaptation of Twelfth Night at St John Fisher First School this week. Set in 1930s Tinseltown, the play has been specially adapted

  • 24/1/01 - Council deny stalling on Rovers new lease

    BROMSGROVE District Council have denied claims that they are stalling on granting troubled Bromsgrove Rovers a new lease on their Victoria Ground home. The club faces a winding-up order in Liverpool on Monday from HM Customs and Excise, who are demanding

  • Drew's big clue for Starlets Vets Angling news with TONY BRUNN

    EXPERIENCED carp pool angler Bill Drew from Bewdley has only just joined the Starlets Veterans, and he showed the rest of the members of the club that he will be a force to be reckoned with when he won their latest match on Tuesday at Moorlands Farms

  • Services extended

    A DROITWICH Spa salon is going to great lengths to give its customers a new image. No.1.Hair, in High Street, is expanding its services in 2001 and now offers hair extensions. Customers can enter the salon with a bob and leave hours later with long, luscious

  • 24/1/01 - City duo sign contracts

    PROMISING Worcester City youngsters Paul Wyatt and Jamie Hyde have signed extensions to their contracts. Manager John Barton has been delighted with the progress of goalkeeper Wyatt and winger Hyde, who have come through the ranks at St George's Lane.

  • Junior football

    Bromsgrove Town B 3 Redditch Utd U12s 10 REDDITCH started shakily in a League Shield Round Three match. Bromsgrove took the initiative scoring two early goals. Redditch responded when Daniel Hiorns scored a super goal from the edge of the area followed

  • Sports club president steps down

    MEMBERS of Redditch Cricket Hockey and Rugby teams paid tribute to retiring president Noel Green with a presentation evening. Green joined the Club as a cricketer 60 years ago when he was 18 and has been involved ever since, serving on the Management

  • 5-a-side latest

    THERE was a change at the top of the Premier Division of the Abbey High School Wednesday night league. T&R Sports completed two victories, 7-4 over bottom club Crazy Yaks and then 8-6 over Ravensmere to move above Unknowns who dropped into second

  • on look out

    I AM looking for former pupils of St Stephen's School which used to be situated by St Stephen's Church in Worcester. The pupils would have started the school in 1965/6 and their last term would have been 1970/1. I would love them to contact me at the

  • That's why we're in this mess

    WHEN will the Worcestershire Hospitals NHS Trust realise the folly at closing down Kidderminster hospital to orthopaedic surgery? It is because of this that we are in such a mess now. I could never understand why routine surgery such as hip or knee replacements

  • Supporting need for supermarket

    I WAS encouraged to read B J Bennett's letter (You Say, January 9) which supports the need for a new supermarket in St John's. He is also supportive of our own proposals for the area which, in my opinion, reflect the views of a significant proportion

  • It was the hunt that blocked the road

    SO H Ray of Worcester (You Say, January 16) thinks that police were only needed at the Boxing Day meet of the Worcestershire Hunt to control the terrible behaviour of those protesting against the blatant cruelty to animals that was about to ensue. Sorry

  • Bonehill's star but no joy in school champs

    THE Bonehill brothers, Anthony, aged 14 and 13-year-old Marc, showed the way in an otherwise disappointing start for Droitwich Amateur Boxing Club fighters in this year's Schools Boxing Championships. In the West Midlands preliminary at Birmingham, John

  • FA hearing after 'illegal approach'

    BROMSGROVE Rovers have reported Redditch United to the Birmingham Football Association over an alleged illegal approach for captain Quentin Townsend. Rovers claim Redditch boss Rob Smith did not go through the proper channels in his quest to sign the

  • Hope to star as fans launch society

    FORMER Greens boss Bobby Hope will be the guest of honour at the Bromsgrove Rovers Supporters' Society launch night next month. Past players and officials are expected to attend the evening on Friday February 16, organised following Monday's meeting of

  • Ace Davies all set to be Wizard of Oz

    CRICKETER Nick Davies is jetting 10,000 miles to face the old enemy. The all-rounder embarks on a month-long tour of Australia on February 1 as part of a 17-man Midlands Club Cricket Conference squad. They will play 11 games against tough opposition and

  • Youngsters impress in club gala

    DROITWICH Dolphins Swimming Club started the New Year in impressive style when they competed against Stourbridge, Brockworth, Evesham, Worcester and Beaufort in an inter-club gala. A real battle developed with the first three places only decided during

  • Cash windfall has come a little late

    A FEW of you will no doubt remember the front page story when the roof at a Worcester school collapsed. Children at Perdiswell Primary School were forced to take lessons in the sports hall and computer room when the roof of a classroom caved in. Plaster

  • From the Alcester Chronicle archives...

    January 21, 1966 SLEEPY Bidford is waking up to the fact that it has an important by-election on Monday. And the election, caused by the death of Alcester Rural District Councillor Dr MV Murray, should be one of the most exciting in the district since

  • Plans to be moved along

    A BIDFORD group is trying to push forward plans to develop a community shelter in the village. The Bidford Community Group has come up with an idea for converting an area of land into a facility which will benefit people from throughout the community.

  • Pubs toast victory of vigilance alert

    EXCELLENT communication between pub licensees and landlords added to continual liaising with the police is proving to be extremely effective in Alcester. The Pub Watch scheme which operates in Alcester involves all town centre pubs as well as neighbouring

  • Druids were much valued as teachers

    I APPRECIATE the gallantry of the Rev Peter Hatton in his defence of Ms Johnson, and also his sentiments duly expressed but I feel he has dismissed druids far too lightly. In ancient Celtic society, the druids held positions of power and wisdom that earned

  • Assembly shock

    I AM astonished by the suggestion from the Labour leader of Worcestershire County Council about removing statutory religious assemblies in schools by changing the law. Her main platform was lack of space in some schools and/or lack of staff involvement

  • 'Thanks' for the tax increase

    WRITING in this newspaper recently, Tory councillor Alan Dent suggested that Sidemoor people owe a debt of thanks to his councillor wife for achieving the proposed construction of a raised crossing outside Sidemoor First School. For what else do Sidemoor

  • Shop plans on view

    I AM writing with reference to the proposed Primsland Way shops, in Droitwich. Planning permission for these shops was refused by both town and district councils but overturned on appeal by the secretary of state inspectorate. The plans are now available

  • Church face fixture chaos

    ALVECHURCH'S mounting fixture backlog worsened at the weekend with another postponement. After losing last week's league clash against Coventry Sphinx to a frosty pitch, Saturday's home Challenge Cup tie against Romulus also fell victim to the freezing

  • Bees take control

    Studley BKL 1 Pershore Town 0 BKL recorded their 17th win of the season, beating fellow title challengers Pershore Town. In an even opening quarter Pershore's Paul Jones went close with a strike from six yards just going over. As the tempo increased BKL

  • Ladies on top

    Leamington Ladies 0 Headless Cross Ladies 2 HEADLESS Cross were always in control with Claire Maxwell being denied three times by good goalkeeping before Janine Hamilton found Alison Johnson down the left to cut inside and beat two players before firing

  • Mixed results for Reds girls

    Redditch Utd Girls U10s 1 Keresley Colts 0 REDDITCH edged the game with a first half goal from Emma Kember after a great run and cross from Amy Irish. A good team performance kept Keresley at bay but when they did break through in-form keeper and Player

  • Christopher at his peak

    A YOUNG actor from a Bromsgrove school has already reached the peak of the profession with a regular part in a prime-time show. North Bromsgrove High School pupil Christopher Trenfield, aged 13, appears in ITV's Peak Practice as Charlie Webster, a teenager

  • Books to be delivered to your door

    HOUSEBOUND residents in Bromsgrove need never be without a book to read -- thanks to a new initiative by the town's library. It has gathered together a small group of volunteers who, from next month, will begin a delivery service to those unable to make

  • Nigel is new vicar at St John's

    THE new vicar of St John's Parish Church, in Bromsgrove, takes up his post tomorrow. The Rev Nigel Marns will be inducted by the Bishop of Worcester before an anticipated congregation of more than 400. He replaces Canon John Davies who retired last May

  • Bromsgrove-on-the-water

    IDEAS came flooding in from Bromsgrove traders to give the town's Spadesbourne Brook a makeover and turn it into a real attraction. Sue Cupitt, from the family-run jewellers, Cupitts, in The Strand, said it was a lovely feature of the town and could be

  • Feckenham Forest History Society

    AT the first meeting of the year, held at Feckenham Village Hall, the society was treated to a fascinating talk by Barbara Middlemass on the history of the 'Salt King' John Corbett and the Chateau Impney. Present day visitors cannot fail to be impressed

  • Snap up cash to keep winter at bay

    PENSIONERS and those on low incomes in Bromsgrove are being urged to snap up extra cash in a bid to keep warm this winter. Age Concern, based in Windsor Street, fears that up to a third of the town's poorest pensioners and people claiming benefit who

  • Hopwood WI

    PRESIDENT Sylvia Cartwright welcomed everyone to the first meeting of the year. Letters of thanks and congratulations which had been received from visitors to the 80th birthday party were read out. The secretary reported Hagley Evening WI were happy to

  • MP hits the airwaves

    MP Julie Kirkbride is the guest presenter of four live 30 minute political programmes being shown on national TV this week. Powerhouse deals with news and current affairs and goes out on Channel Four at noon on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays

  • Inkberrow WI

    PRESIDENT Elaine Hodgkinson welcomed everyone to the December meeting, including two visitors and Pat Edwards, who had recently re-joined the branch. Elaine then announced the sad news of the death of member Peggy Smith. Speaker Mrs Pat Wainwright then

  • Inner Wheel Club of Redditch

    PRESIDENT Elizabeth Ostroumoff invited Diana Hall to light the Candle of Friendship at the January meeting to celebrate World Inner Wheel Day, which takes place on January 10 each year. Elizabeth went on to explain to new members that in 1923, Rotarian

  • Magistrate goes on the run

    A MAGISTRATE, who works in Bromsgrove, is in training to raise cash for a centre in the town which caters for children with special needs. Layton Ward, who sits on the Bromsgrove and Redditch bench, is running this year's London Marathon in aid of Little

  • Probus Club of Alcester

    IN November, a party of members and friends went on an outing to Turners in Northampton for a Christmas party. December 13 was the Christmas buffet lunch and on January 10 there was a bring-and-buy and raffle before lunch, followed by entertainment from

  • Brakes put on drivers who speed

    RESIDENTS in Barnt Green have welcomed plans aimed at slowing down speeding drivers and making their village a safer place. Worcestershire Highways Partnership in Bromsgrove presented a catalogue of improvements, including reducing the speed limit through

  • Pots of cash to be raised for charity

    THE manager of a Bromsgrove garden centre is planning to spice up her life with a 300-mile charity bike ride across India. Jo Cummings, from Highfield Road, is in serious training for her arduous trek from Agra to New Delhi at the end of next month. The

  • Debate smacks of soft touch liberals, says MP

    BROMSGROVE MP Julie Kirkbride has hit out at "woolly minded liberals" who oppose correcting persistently unruly youngsters with a smack. She spoke after an all-party group of MPs condemned the Government's plans to allow childminders, with parental permission

  • Kevin will have you relaxed in no time

    AFTER seeing various stage hypnosis shows I was intrigued by Kevin's work at the centre. I don't smoke or have a drink problem, but I am partial to pizza and chocolates and would love to go down a dress size or two -- so I decided to go under Kevin's

  • January 26, 1901

    NEWS of Queen Victoria's death cast a deep gloom over Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa. 100 years ago January 26, 1901 NEWS of Queen Victoria's death cast a deep gloom over Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa. The Messenger, which had kept townsfolk posted of her

  • Mansfield Town 2 Kidderminster Harriers 1

    Tuesday, January 23, 2001 KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Jan Molby is warning his mid-table side to stay clear of the Division Three strugglers after last night's 2-1 defeat at Mansfield Town. Molby saw his side throw away a 17th minute debut goal by striker

  • 100 Years Ago

    January 26, 1901. ALVECHURCH - The sad though expected news of the death of the Queen was announced to the public by the solemn peals from the bells of the parish church. A flag, half mast, is flying from the flag staff on the tower. On Sunday, special

  • Name that car

    THIS old postcard was taken around the middle of the last century by the look of the car, but does anyone know the model? The scene is that of the Eight Bells pub in Feckenham, which is now a private house, and the card was kindly loaned by Alan Foxall

  • 50 Years Ago

    January 27, 1951 Wythall Film Show - At the invitation of the local Conservative Association, many residents of Wythall attended a film show at the Institute on Thursday. The evening's entertainment was provided by Mr Dennis Ward, regional director of

  • What's on

    Thursday, January 25 Break-a-Leg Theatre Group: Twelfth Night, St John Fisher First School, Church Hill. Until January 27. Tickets from 545561. Delta/Eileen Rose/Kings of Convenience, Ronnie Scott's, Birmingham. Tickets from 0121 643 4525. The Nostalgics

  • Blair hails floods hero

    A REDDITCH man who played a crucial role in dealing with the severe floods last year was honoured by the Prime Minister on Monday when he was invited to Downing Street. Pete Baker, of Crabbs Cross, is commander of Worcester Fire Station as well as an

  • Eye spy!

    WOOD-be artists are being encouraged to carve a path to University College Worcester for inspiration as it unveils its latest exhibition of sculptures. As part of the university's arts and cultures strategy, its library is to display the work of wood

  • Walk is given a record boost

    THREE intrepid explorers, planning to walk along the Great Wall of China in May to raise cash for the National Deaf Children's Society, have launched a CD to boost funds. Jules Benjamin, Tony Gibbon, and Berrow's Worcester Journal editor John Murphy have

  • Sugar decision not so sweet for MP

    A DECISION about a new incinerator in Worcestershire could be made behind closed doors, Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff has claimed. He fears plans for an incinerator at British Sugar's factory at Kidderminster could be shelved. Mr Luff thinks British

  • Fox hunting debate: MP still confident

    TOWN Conservative MP Peter Luff believes his proposals to allow licensed hunting with dogs will be successful following support from the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). Mr Luff was responding to claims from anti-hunting groups that regulation

  • Heartbreak after fire at cottage

    THE owner of a 400-year-old Worcestershire cottage which was burnt to a shell has told of his anguish at learning that many of his late father's possessions had been lost in the blaze. Reg Wood fought back tears as he revealed that the cottage, which

  • Labourer forged his final pay

    A DISGRUNTLED Worcester man forged his last pay cheque after feeling he had been "taken advantage of" by his employer, city magistrates have heard. Leon Farr added £200 to his final pay cheque of £49.20, before banking it between August and September

  • Driver banned for six months

    A WORCESTER man who took a firm's van home so it would not be vandalised has been banned from driving. City magistrates heard how Max Allin took a Ford Transit pick-up - which belonged to the building company he worked for - home after finding he had

  • Helen heads for the money

    A CANCER-sufferer who has supported people whose lives have been affected by crime is to host a charity fund-raising evening in aid of Victim Support. Helen Windsor has pledged to have her head shaved next month in an attempt to fill the coffers for the

  • Good times ahead with all-new pavilion

    TWO local bowling clubs, Northfield Park and Grasshoppers, have been rewarded for their perseverance during difficult times with the news that work has eventually started on a new pavilion at their Lickey Hills base. Work began earlier this month, with

  • More players and umpires wanted

    BROMSGROVE Hockey Club's ladies' first team are gunning for the Worcestershire League Division One title as they embark on the second half of the season. In the run-up to their title charge, the girls are on the lookout for new players of any ability

  • Families fight plans to build on green space

    WORRIED householders attended a meeting on Monday to voice concerns about a proposal to build flats near their homes. Residents handed a petition to Droitwich Spa Town Council's planning committee boasting more than 70 signatures opposing an application

  • Battling to keep Lido pool open

    A DECISION not to open the town's Lido pool this summer has sparked an outcry from residents. A petition organised by Liberal Democrats to save the site already boasts nearly 1,000 signatures. Last week, Wychavon District Council revealed it will not

  • Programme can only help teenagers

    I AM afraid Councillor Gavin Smithers is quite mistaken (Letters, January 17) that we are letting our young people down by offering them contraception advice from school nurses and emergency contraception from pharmacists free of charge in addition to

  • Time to act and plug that loophole

    IT will come as astonishing news to people that some of our most vulnerable children could be taken to school by drivers who have not been vetted. It will also be a shock to know that Worcestershire County Council has no formal policy on the issue. The

  • Group must have venue

    I READ your report on the Break-a-Leg Theatre Group and St John Fisher First School (Advertiser, January 10). I feel it is very sad if, once again, society allows the developers to win the day. Allowing housing to be built on the site of St John Fisher

  • People care about town

    IF AR Price-Higgett thinks Redditch people only care about bingo and the price of a pint (Letters, January 10), then he must walk round with his eyes and ears closed. The concern expressed by residents over the Redditch school closures, the threat to

  • Fine these pet owners

    MAY I, through your letters page, bring notice to the disgusting state of the paths around Roman Way First School? For some time, I have had cause to walk along these paths and there has always been a problem with dog mess, but as I walked along there

  • Letter from Westminster

    LAST Friday, I visited local farms and met farmers and NFU representatives to discuss issues important to them and that have an impact on all our lives. Farmers work hard and are an important element of British life. We must deliver a package of support

  • 24/1/01 - Stourport switches rewarded with win

    A TRIPLE substitution paid dividends for Stourport Swifts who duly netted three second half goals to win 4-0 in last night's home Midland Alliance match with Cradley Town. It took their unbeaten run to six games. Lee Booth hit the bar early on before

  • Max's big match !

    IT was a winter wonderland wedding for Redditch Advertiser sports editor Max Hall when he tied the knot recently. He married Melanie Swan, a journalist with our sister paper the Worcester Evening News, at St Peter's Church, Kinver. Alan Brooks was best

  • Alcester captain hangs up boots

    ALCESTER skipper Andy Flynn has been forced to hang up his boots after admitting defeat over a long-term knee injury. Flynn suffered the recurrence of a cruciate ligament injury against Coventry Welsh in the second match of the season. He suffered the

  • Pair jailed after bungled PO raid

    Two bungling post office robbers who hid their faces behind sunglasses and made their getaway on bikes have both been jailed for five years. One of the drunken Irishmen threw a book at a woman assistant and the other brandished an ornamental sword. They

  • Musical youth in schools concert

    PUPILS had the chance to play their violins alongside 600 others at a prestigious music concert on Sunday. Children from schools, including St Mary's Primary, Ipsley First and Lodge Farm, Ridgeway and Walkwood middle schools took part in the concert,

  • Alcester edge it in derby day crunch

    Alcester 22 Kings Norton 19 Alcester ran out worthy winners of a keenly fought contest at King's Coughton on Saturday afternoon. It was the hosts' first win since 25th November, but their joy was once again overshadowed by the injury curse which has jinxed

  • Card users to pay the same

    THE cost of the Reddicard will be frozen at its introductory 1998 price for the coming financial year, if approved by Redditch Council's policy and resources committee. The move comes as officers prepare to raise the profile of the Reddicard from April

  • 'Yes' to school plans

    PLANS to extend Astwood Bank First School have finally been rubber stamped by the county council following objections last month. The proposals to build three new classrooms using a £300,000 Government windfall were put on ice pending a site visit by

  • Card with a grim history

    THE search is on to find the family of a Redditch brother and sister who sent a gruesome postcard to their parents 86 years ago. The postcard depicting a murder scene was sent by the children of James and Margaret Watson, who lived in Evesham Road until

  • 400-year-old home destroyed in blaze

    FIVE county fire crews were called to a major blaze at a 400-year-old Bradley Green cottage in the early hours of Sunday. More than 50 firefighters from Redditch, Bromsgrove, Droitwich, Malvern and Kidderminster were called to the fire after two Redditch

  • Concerns lead to drop in jab levels

    CONTROVERSY about the combined MMR vaccine for babies has seen immunisation levels in Redditch drop below target, writes Julian Seva. Parents' fears of a link between the measles, mumps and rubella jab and autism and bowel disease have seen vaccination

  • Horses left out in cold by theft

    POLICE in Redditch are appealing for clues after thieves stole horse tack and blankets from Gorcott Hill, near Beoley. The theft happened overnight between Wednesday, January 17, and the next day. The thieves stole a quantity of driving harnesses but

  • Community base is set for facelift

    THE Redditch YMCA is to undergo its first major overhaul and extension in 23 years as it looks to expand and modernise its ageing facilities, writes Julian Seva. The organisation, based in Church Hill Centre, has already appointed architects to produce

  • Late call gives UK tour to local band

    AN Astwood Bank band has been given a lucky break after being chosen to support Midlands supergroup Ocean Colour Scene on one half of their forthcoming UK tour, writes Melina Cannon. Late, a four-piece indie/rock band, is made up of singer and rhythm

  • Theft of grinder

    AN angle grinder and drill were among £1,000 worth of items stolen from a container at a waste transfer station in Park Farm. The theft happened between 5pm on Tuesday, January 16 and 7am on Wednesday, January 17, at the Crossgate Road depot.

  • Residents call for play area to be car park

    A PETITION has been submitted to Redditch Council to turn a play area at Quibury Close into a residents' car park to combat nuisance youths congregating outside their homes. Residents are keen to see the Winyates East play area, near Ten Acres First School

  • Road island hits rocks

    WYTHALL residents have been warned to be wary of a new traffic island in the village, after hearing it made have been the cause of a spate of accidents Parish councillors have told residents to be cautious when using the Hollywood Lane Island on the junctions

  • Youth club shuts doors

    The Woodrush Youth Club in Wythall will be closed until further notice. Youth Worker Kay Parker has stopped the senior nights of Tuesday and Thursday but Wednesday nights for juniors will continue. Club managers will decide when the centre will be opening

  • Fire at high school

    POLICE and fire-fighters were called to Bridley Moor High School last week after a row of conifer trees at the rear of the building was set on fire. About £1,000 of fire damage was caused to some portable buildings situated near the trees. The incident

  • Holocaust memorial

    The first Holocaust Memorial Day takes place on Saturday. The national event has been designated by the Government to mark the plight of victims of genocide, oppression and atrocities. Schoolchildren will be holding a remembrance service in the Kingfisher

  • Top Tory opens new party HQ

    SHADOW home secretary Ann Widdecombe visited Redditch last week to officially open the new Conservative Headquarters in Birchfield road, Headless Cross. Miss Widdecombe was shown around the building by Redditch's Conservative Prospective Parliamentary

  • Town police earn praise in report

    A CLOSE working relationship between Redditch police and minority groups has been highlighted following the release of a national report. West Mercia Constabulary received recognition for the way it tackles racial issues in a report by Her Majesty's Inspector

  • Residents moved

    RESIDENTS at a Redditch care home have been relocated due to a £2.25 million redevelopment project to demolish and rebuild their old Webheath home. The 35 residents at The Birches, Birchfield Road, have been moved to a former county council care home

  • Read the latest junior soccer scores and scorers here

    MEADOW Park U12s 6 Kidderminster Athletic U12s 1. A wet Sunday afternoon at Garringtons brought out the best in Park, with an impressive hat-trick debut from David Powell helping Park stay at the top of the league. The first half started well with Jamie

  • Vandals hit Winyates butchers

    Vandals caused £950 damage after hurling concrete blocks through the window of a butcher's shop in Winyates Centre. The incident happened at JH Reading Butchers between 10.3pm on Saturday and 12.30am in Sunday.

  • Thieves make Kwik getaway

    Assorted cigarettes worth £600, blank video cassettes and a mobile phone were stolen during a break-in at a Woodrow shop. The incident happened at Kwik Save in Woodrow Centre between 6.30pm last Thursday and 7am last Friday.

  • Thieves use bin liners

    POLICE are looking for witnesses to an unusual house burglary which took place just minutes after the home owner had left the premises. Three men were seen carrying black bin liners from the home in Patch Lane, Oakenshaw, at about 5.30pm on Monday, January

  • Betty's plea to taxpayers

    PEOPLE should curb their smoking and drinking to help pay for improved social services, a Redditch county councillor has claimed. Betty Passingham made the comments as the county council backed a £1.53 per week average council tax increase to boost social

  • Burns night bonanza!

    Diners at NEW College's Old Library Restaurant are in for a real Scotch celebration on Burns Night tomorrow. Students and staff are preparing a traditional feast to mark January 25, the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns. The menu will include oak

  • Light campaign has star quality

    A SPA man who has campaigned for the right to see the stars at night has welcomed plans to improve street lighting. Peter Findlay, from Manor Close, has been area representative for the Campaign for Dark Skies for four years. The group aims to cut down

  • Focused on lifesaving

    THE Spa's ambulance service is geared up to reach emergencies even faster, thanks to a new paramedic car. Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service has bought a Ford Focus Estate for Droitwich as part of a £1.3m investment package in the two counties.

  • Back in business - thanks to you

    A BIG thank you has gone out to kind readers who dug deep to save a cash-stricken animal rescue centre near Droitwich. The Advertiser this month featured an appeal by Danemere Animal Rescue, in Tibberton, which needed urgent donations. Nearly £600 has

  • Eject house plans say videomakers

    RESIDENTS from a hamlet near Droitwich are recording a film to stop planning chiefs allowing the construction of 81 homes. Proposals to develop Hadzor Hall have met with strong opposition from families. The Keep Hadzor Special Campaign group has formed

  • Council deny stalling on Rovers new lease

    BROMSGROVE District Council have denied claims that they are stalling on granting troubled Bromsgrove Rovers a new lease on their Victoria Ground home. The club faces a winding-up order in Liverpool on Monday from HM Customs and Excise, who are demanding

  • Cricket in £11m npower booster

    WORCESTER-based npower today announced a three-year sponsorship deal worth more than £11m with the England and Wales Cricket Board. The deal sees the company become title sponsors of England's home Test series' up to and including 2003. It will begin

  • Reds aim to stretch fine run

    REDDITCH United face a promotion six-pointer in the Dr Martens League Western Div-ision tonight when they travel to fourth-placed Hinckley United (7.45). The match was quickly rearran-ged after being postponed on Saturday due to a frozen pitch. Reds,

  • Sam to put rivals in a spin

    SAMUEL Wilderspin was balloted out of a good-looking opportunity at Warwick earlier this month but has been found another suitable race in the Tim Forster Cup at Wincanton tomorrow. He has run well on both his starts for Richard Lee this season, chasing

  • City, county mourn death of the Queen

    BERROW'S Journal this week exactly a century ago was conspicuous for the thick black lines alongside every column on every page. The newspaper was sharing in the city, county and nation's mourning at the death of Queen Victoria. Britain's longest reigning

  • Churchman responds to criticism

    MIKE Smith accuses me of ignorance, intolerance and hypocrisy. I will not respond in kind; once name calling begins, reason departs. I repeat, any harassment of self-proclaimed "white witches" is intolerable. In a free country we are free to believe what

  • Pocketing an award?

    A PUB management trainer is toasting success after reaching the final of an industry award scheme. David Galvin, of the Poacher's Pocket, in Wychbold, is waiting anxiously to see if he will become the Licensee Trainer of the Year at the 2000 National

  • 24/1/01 - Second Sixways injury setback

    WORCESTER Rugby Club have been dealt a second injury blow in as many days with the news that Greg Meredith is out for the rest of the season. The centre, who is regarded as a big prospect for the future, injured his knee in Worcester under-21s' recent

  • Peachey sweeps the board

    REDDITCH schoolgirl, Katie Peachey, bagged a number of prizes at Worcester Swimming Club awards evening. Peachey won the Rose Bowl for her achievements during a year when she took ten senior titles in the Worcester County Championships. She was selected

  • Gymnastics results

    SEVENTY children participated in the first annual open gymnastics competition, at Arrow Vale Sports Centre. Six teams from Arrow Vale, Abbey Stadium and Woodrush competed in front of more than 100 spectators. Girls and boys completed in 12 different performance

  • Veterans shine

    BROMSGROVE & Redditch AC's two veteran Internationals, Phil Carbutt and Bernie Jones, had good runs at the Midland Veteran Cross Country Championships with Carbutt's run winning him the over 45 title. On a bitterly cold morning, and with the majority

  • Leys lose out despite gritty display

    WORCESTERSHIRE representatives The Leys saw their cup hopes shot down by Oxfordshire side Gosford Hill 3-0. After winning the County Cup on the back of hat-trick hero Carl Gould's exploits the Leys met their match in the ESFA Genie Schools and Colleges

  • Regents face title decider

    REDDITCH Regents head into their biggest game of the season on Sunday when they take on unbeaten leaders Lasers. The Great Barr-based side are six points ahead of third-placed Regents and look odds-on for the title. But Regents coach Dave Bradshaw wants

  • Redditch return to league action

    THE postponement of Redditch's league match against Droitwich at the weekend has left the Bromsgrove Road side facing a league double-header in a couple of weeks. The home match has been rearranged for Sunday, February 4, 24 hours after the club's return

  • 24/1/01 - Search for star

    WORCESTER City hope to bring thr-ough more young talent from next season thanks to the setting-up of a new-look youth academy. The club has gone into partnership with Wor-cester College of Technology to set up a youth development programme for young players

  • RESCUE BOY'S DAD ISSUES WARNING

    THE father of a Bromsgrove boy dramatically rescued from a 180-foot deep quarry thanks to his mobile phone has warned parents to guard against the dangers lurking on their doorsteps Nigel Cooke, aged 40, spoke out after his 12-year-old stepson, Christopher

  • Schoolboys are arrested

    TWO schoolboys have been arrested following a double wrecking spree at a Stoke Heath museum. As a result of further inquiries eight other arrests were made in connection with a string of other crimes in Bromsgrove. Five air rifles and five longbows and

  • Increasingly irritated

    I AM increasingly irritated to find, when opening my Evening News, that so many pages contain a photograph of MP Mike Foster promoting himself at every opportunity. This leads me to ask whether there is any undue influence here. Surely an objective and

  • He dare not face British people

    TONY Blair has shown he's a real chicken. He doesn't dare face the British people in a TV debate because he knows that without his spin doctors he'd lose. He said on the Frost Programme 10 days ago that he was happy in principle to take part in a TV election

  • Tuck in and help war on cancer

    I AM writing to invite readers to make a date and join me for a third helping of Britain's Biggest All-Day Breakfast on Friday, March 2. Thanks to the support of local people and thousands of others nationwide, Britain's Biggest All-Day Breakfast has

  • Stores saga of St John's

    I WAS present at a recent meeting of the St John's Traders/Residents Association held at the YMCA to hear a talk given by two senior city planners on the three current supermarket proposals. The planners outlined the three plans, namely Asda on the old

  • Labour is full of spin but empty of action

    6 I AM sure that some of your readers will be surprised at Mark Simpson's comments about the rail network, especially when it was a Tory Government that privatised the industry. As a lifelong Conservative voter, I would say that I am far from happy about

  • 24/1/01 - Gamble pays off as Ellis is ace in pack

    IT was great to see midfielder Andy Ellis back in action in Saturday's 2-0 victory over Folkestone. We knew in many respects that his first game back would probably be the easiest, having been out for over a year with his broken leg. We still weren't

  • Industry in the classroom

    A MANAGEMENT team from Rolls Royce took their engineering expertise into the classroom last week as part of a project to promote links between industry and the world of education. The team visited Alcester Infant School on Thursday afternoon to share

  • Response was a hit

    ALCESTER'S Neighbourhood Watch chairman was thrilled by the turnout to its most recent meeting. Twenty-five people turned up to watch Insp Sarah Goodall give a presentation on the police activity in Alcester. Chairman Bev Bevins said: "I was absolutely

  • Rain fails to spoil parade

    THE streets of Alcester were overflowing with colour and tradition on Sunday as crowds of people turned up to watch and participate in the annual Court Leet Service. A procession made up of the High Bailiff, the Mayor and Mayoress, members of the Court

  • Council backs fears over car park offices

    TOWN councillors have lent support to residents who have objected to temporary offices being sited on the main car park. Residents and shopkeepers believe if the planning application is approved by Stratford District Council, the vitality of the town

  • Rector speaks of 'miracle' escape

    THE rector of St Nicholas' Church has praised emergency crews who helped him after he escaped unscathed from an horrific car crash. The Rev David Capron was returning to Alcester, travelling over Red Hill on Monday, January 15, just before 2pm, when he

  • Expansion plan gets the go-ahead

    THE ever-increasing growth of pupil numbers at Alcester High School has led to plans for a huge building project, costing hundreds of thousands of pounds. The application, which was approved by Warwickshire County Council last week, includes the construction

  • Paying attention

    I HAVE followed with interest the various items regarding the proposed parish council in Lickey End. I do not wish to become embroiled in the pros and cons of parish councils but it does seem that there is a belief that parish councillors are paid attendance

  • Alerting families to pool dangers

    I THINK the residents of Bromsgrove owe a debt of gratitude to Cllr Peter McDonald. He, more than anyone else, has highlighted the dangers in the operating systems governing the swimming pool of the Dolphin Centre. My family are regular users of the baths

  • Too much hype

    APPARENTLY, the internet, despite all the hype, isn't all it was made out to be. A survey last month reported that 28 million Americans had stopped using the net. This makes non-tech old-stagers like me breathe a sign of relief. GEORGE COWLEY, Windermere

  • Studley boss wins dream date

    STUDLEY BKL chairman Dave Robinson will have his dream Birmingham Senior Cup tie - if the Bees can knock out fellow giant killers Kings Heath. The Midland Comb leaders have been drawn at home to West Bromwich Albion and Robinson is a die-hard Baggies

  • Studley soar to the top

    THE stirling efforts of Studley chairman Dave Robinson to get the pitch playable for the weekend were rewarded with another crucial Beehive win. BKL secured a narrow 1-0 win over title-rivals Pershore to knock them out of the championship picture. Robinson

  • KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS FIXTURES 2000/2001

    Sat Aug 12 Torquay United (h) 2-0 Hadley, Horne Sat Aug 19 Scunthorpe United (a) 0-2 Tues Aug 22 Walsall (Worthington Cup 1st round, 1st leg) (a) 1-1 Hadley Sat Aug 26 Halifax Town (h) 2-1 Hadley 2 Mon Aug 28 Brighton and Hove Albion (a) 2-0 Foster, Bennett

  • Feckenham earn a break

    FECKENHAM manager Clive Campion said the postponement of Saturday's match against Handrahan Timbers has allowed some of his injured players precious recovery time. The league clash at the Valley was postponed because of a frozen pitch and Campion hopes

  • Heath boss looks elsewhere

    KINGS Heath manager Sean Lawless has given up on transfer target Brian Cant after being unable to contact the Knowle keeper. Lawless turned to Cant as a replacement for Kenny Sanders after missing out on Blackheath's Miles Day but has been unable to ring

  • Railway stutter

    Railway Lions 2 Henley Forest Res 1 RAILWAY kept their impressive record of nine wins in nine games, to stay six points clear at the top but for the second week running found it hard to find their form. Henley proved hard to break down and although Railway

  • 58 pregnant ewes wiped out by train

    A BROMSGROVE farmer's 58 pregnant ewes were wiped out when a train ploughed into them on Monday. It is believed to be the worst accident of its kind in living memory. The track, at Droitwich Spa, was closed for more than 13 hours after the empty passenger

  • Mum defends combined jab for MMR

    A REDNAL woman who campaigned for the victims of vaccine damage has defended the controversial combined jab for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR). Chairman of the Vaccine Victims Support Group Olivia Price, of Malcolm Grove, said MMR was a fashionable

  • Police praised for addressing racism

    A POLICE force which covers Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa has received national recognition for the progress it has made in addressing racial issues. Winning the Race: Embracing Diversity -- a report by Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC), published

  • MP's view on hunt branded 'ignorant'

    AN animal-lover has branded town Tory MP Julie Kirkbride's view on foxhunting as 'breathtakingly ignorant'. Worcestershire's branch of Protect Our Wild Animals (POWA) spokesman Maurice Brett launched the attack after the House of Commons debate on the

  • PC steps in to help Gary

    A KIND police officer has put a smile back on the face of a Charford youngster whose pet pigeon was killed by an air rifle. PC Bob Ebbitt was so moved after reading the plight of Gary Tolley in the Advertiser/Messenger, he has given the 12-year-old another

  • Sports pitches to be improved

    AN ambitious plan to treble the size of Stoke Heath's recreation ground could provide sporty villagers with a new football pitch and basketball court. Stoke Prior parish councillors have struck a deal to rent neighbouring land from the Croft Trust which

  • Best foot forward

    ONE of the world's greatest ever endurance athletes will be leading some of Stratford's most determined young people through the town's Millennium Volunteer Project, which begins next week. Former Para Paddy Doyle, who is based at the Depot offices at

  • Investigation is madness says MP

    COTSWOLD MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown has branded plans to investigate a profit-making section of Cotswold District Council as "bizarre madness." Officials from the Government's Best Value Task Force are coming from Bristol to spend four days in the Cotswolds

  • Tories hit out at rise in tax

    COUNTY Tories have hit out at proposed council tax increases claiming they will penalise people the authority's services are designed to support. Earlier this month, the ruling Labour/Liberal Democrat group on Worcestershire County Council posted three

  • Kingfisher WI

    THE programme for the year has many interesting speakers booked. Members were told of a visit to Denman College at the end of July. In response to an inquiry from County, there was a majority vote that the half-yearly council meeting should continue.

  • Parents air views on schools' rejig

    HUNDREDS of Bromsgrove parents have put pen to paper to let education chiefs know what they think about a proposed schools' shake-up. Last year, Worcestershire County Council called on schools, parents and governors to come forward with their views on

  • Rowney Green Horticultural Society

    IT was a cold winter's night but members poured into the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Peace Hall for a meeting of the society and the annual fun quiz. The quiz was arranged by Dr Rob Bennett, renowned for his challenges, his cryptic, teasing questions

  • Solihull & District Orchid Society

    ON JANUARY 6, a fun afternoon took place with the judging competition. As there were not many plants to judge, they were divided into hybrids and species and Monica won with seven points. The spring show will take place on April 14 at Arden School, Station

  • Soroptimist International

    THE Bromsgrove and Redditch branch met for the first meeting of the year to discuss past happenings and future plans. The speaker was Ann Russell, a member from Coventry, who belongs to the National Soroptimist Benevolent Fund Committee. This charity

  • MP to raise school funds at PM's Question Time

    BROMSGROVE'S Conservative MP plans to bring the campaign by Worcestershire headteachers for a fairer funding deal to the attention of Prime Minister Tony Blair today. Julie Kirkbride intends to ask at Prime Minister's Question Time why Worcestershire

  • Well-known eccentric, Jack, dies, aged 76

    ONE of Bromsgrove's well-known eccentrics, who could often be seen walking the High Street with a stick, scarf and wellington boots, has died, aged 76. Jack Troth, who lived for many years at Bewell Head, left his job at the Longbridge car plant in 1966

  • Police issue fresh appeal to trace missing teeanger

    BROMSGROVE police have issued a fresh appeal for information about a 15-year-old youth who has been missing since mid-November. They say they are becoming increasingly concerned for Phillip Walker's safety and are asking commuters to keep an eye open

  • Insurance firm's Rover rethink

    WORKERS at MG Rover can celebrate following a rethink by insurance giants Norwich Union -- who last week refused an employee at the Longbridge site mortgage insurance. Following public condemnation by employees and union leaders, the insurance company

  • Leak left OAPs high and dry

    VULNERABLE Rubery pensioners were left in the cold without heating or water for hours while work was carried out to fix a leak. The leak trickled down Callowbrook Lane and, without warning, the water supply to nearby homes was turned off at around 5pm

  • 25 Years Ago

    June 23, 1976 PLANS are under way for a match between Warwickshire's top cricketers and Studley villagers as part of county coach and former West Indian test player's Derief Taylor's benefit year. The 20-over game is expected to take place some time in

  • Sound of the Fab Four

    Tribute band The Ludwig Beatles will recreate the sound of the Fab Four at Rocklands Social Club next month. The band (above) celebrated its fifth anniversary in November and have toured Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Spain, as well as selling out

  • Toe the line for charity

    Rocklands Social Club will be the venue for a charity line dance on Friday in aid of Headway, an organisation which supports people with acquired brain injury and their carers. The event takes place at the Headless Cross venue from 7.30pm until late,

  • Hot mods ready to rock and rule

    A CHARITY gig featuring six local bands will be held at The Greig Centre on Saturday with The Mod Squad topping the bill. Nu-Year Mayhem has been organised by The Mod Squad in aid of Stratford organisation Springfield Mind, and incorporates a range of

  • Small firms in jobless scheme

    Small businesses in Worcestershire could receive £2,300 of Government cash earmarked to encourage recruitment of the long-term unemployed. The new Recruit scheme is part of a package designed to meet employers' needs while providing increased support

  • Techno-growth firms wanted

    THE search is on for Worcestershire's hi-tech, high-fliers with companies invited to enter the Deloitte & Touche Technology Fast 50 awards. The scheme identifies the 50 fastest-growing technology companies in the Midlands. The growth-rates of these

  • Move to China

    A compressor equipment manufacturer with a base in Worcestershire has opened a new subsidiary in China to cash in on the lucrative Asian market. The addition of Beko Technologies Dalian Co Ltd has brought the tally of Beko Technologies GmbH's international

  • Hope for poverty 'hotspots'

    A NEW system to identify pockets of deprivation to help the authorities target resources more effectively has been launched in Redditch, writes Julian Seva. The Joined Up Information System (JUIS) will provide the council with coloured maps depicting

  • New borough chief named

    FORMER resources director Chris Smith will take over as Redditch Council's new Borough Director, it was announced this week. Mr Smith, who was previously Deputy Borough Director, replaces Katherine Kerswell, who has become chief executive at Solihull