WORKERS at a distribution centre in the Spa have been granted a temporary reprieve. Christian Salvesen, at Berry Hill Industrial Estate, was due to close in July after losing its major contract with supermarket giant Sainsbury's. But on Monday, Sainsbury's
THE planning rules preventing industrial units in Redditch being used for retail are to be reviewed following a debate by town councillors on Monday. Councillors refused to grant retrospective planning permission to a bed firm wanting to change the use
REDDITCH taxpayers will be forced to fork out if the decision is taken to elect a mayor and cabinet to run the council, writes Becky Procter. The warning comes after Redditch Council launched the second phase of consultation over how it should be run.
A NINE-month-old girl was taken to the Alexandra Hospital after falling from a swing in a Redditch play area not included in a major removal programme, writes Becky Procter. Mother-of-two Sharon Beard watched in horror as little Siana fell out of the
YOUNG people in Studley are to be offered their own youth shelter. Studley Parish Council has agreed to set aside £5,000 towards a project which will see a 'bandstand' type construction built in the village. But more money will need to be raised before
A WALKWOOD man wants Redditch Council to get the shears out and cut back overgrown road signs before there is a serious accident. Clive Whittles, of Milford Close, says visitors to the town would find it impossible to get around because signs are covered
THE biggest shake-up of care services since the launch of the Welfare State is to be drawn up by Worcestershire County Council and the National Health Authority. A new Health and Social Care Task Group has been set up to ensure people receive the care
YOU don't need to be too bright to know that the vandal attacks making life on Tolladine a misery aren't the first to affect the Worcester estate. And you don't need a very long memory to remember the others. The run of warm evenings has been offered
INFORMATION is being sought from a former caretaker and pupils at a Redditch school about mysterious lights in the sky nearly 30 years ago, writes Melina Cannon. John Hanson and Dawn Holloway, who are compiling material for a book entitled UFOs! Chronicle
A FORMER Tardebigge slaughterhouse which was re-opened at the height of the foot and mouth crisis to help with the cull has closed, writes Becky Procter. The news brings more relief to farmers around Redditch and is being seen as a sure sign the effects
FOUR Redditch women will be getting completely lost for charity this month. The Heart FM radio station event, raising money for the children's charity First Steps, will be contested on Fathers' Day, Sunday, June 17. The four women, dressed in Christmas
A CHARITY bike ride for the under-12s scrapped due to foot and mouth will now take place on July 7, in conjunction with the Alexandra Hospital's summer fete, writes Becky Procter. The Heart of Worcestershire junior bike ride, sponsored by the British
THE Worcestershire Football Association, in partnership with Droitwich High School and Wychavon District Council, are holding a coaching certificate course at the end of this month. The course kicks off at Droitwich High School on June 30, and also runs
HERE are the winners from Barley Mow FC's presentation night: First team: players' player -- Dean Smith. Top goal scorer -- Clive Wagstaff. Manager's player -- Dean Smith. Second team: players' player -- Tony Newey. Top goal scorer -- Derek Payne. Manager's
THE Ring O'Bells pub in the Holloway, Droitwich, is competing in The Punch Pub Cup, the UK's biggest inter-pub five-a-side football tournament, this weekend. The Midlands action kicks off at the Powerleague five-a-side centre at Salford Stadium, Lichfield
CALLOWBROOK Swifts FC under-8s mixed it with the big gun teams at the Feckenham five-a-side tournament, more than holding their own. It was a good all round team performance in only their second ever tournament, only losing one game, 2-0 to Feckenham
AVONCROFT Seconds were victorious against rivals Old Vigornians on what can only be described as a sporting wicket prepared by the home side The ground, which had been under water for most of the winter, provided a stern test for every batsman, with the
BARNT Green were foiled by accurate spin bowling and crucial umpiring decisions during a run chase against Aston Unity in the Birmingham Premier League Premier Division on Saturday. Replying to Aston Unity's impressive 245 all out, Green looked to be
ANDY Bichel struck an early blow for Worcestershire as their County Championship Division Two clash with Sussex got under way at Horsham today. The Australian paceman trapped Richard Montgomerie lbw for 12 as the home side reached 31-1 after 10 overs.
STAFF at the town's magistrates' court have voted for strike action. Workers at Worcestershire courts, including the Spa's Ombersley Street East, court are considering boycotting their duties over being moved to new buildings. A ballot was organised by
ELECTION candidates will soon find out if party promises have won the hearts of Droitwich Spa voters who head for the polls tomorrow. For the first time in the 21st century, residents are being asked to vote in a General Election. The Worcestershire County
A WESTLANDS campaigner is continuing her crusade to help animals overseas. Patricia Dymock is the founder of the Kismet Account - Animal Samaritans Abroad. It funds trips overseas to sterilise cats and dogs. Thanks to her dedication, a veterinary team
WORCESTER City have released utility player, Andy Bradley, after a back injury left his fitness in doubt. The 31-year-old, who signed from Stafford Rangers, sustained the injury at the end of last season. Boss, John Barton, said it was too big a gamble
A BUSY town road closed for 30 minutes yesterday following a two-vehicle smash. The accident occurred on the A38, near the Chateau Impney Hotel, at 3.15pm. A black Mazda and a lorry were in collision, blocking both carriageways. The female Mazda driver
FARM fresh food was on the shopping list for many Spa residents on Saturday. Thanks to the return of the popular farmers' market, Droitwich High Street was "buzzing." Fourteen producers set up stalls selling cider, fruit, vegetables, herbs, preserve and
DAVE Sims believes new Worcester head coach John Brain can lead the rugby club into the Zurich Premiership. The popular lock, who enjoyed an outstanding season at Sixways last year, has given his full backing to his former Kingsholm coach who was installed
A TEENAGE golfer has achieved a hole-in-one at Worcester's Perdiswell Park Golf Club. Elgar High School pupil, Neil Doherty, aged 14, achieved the momentous feat on the 152-yard par three 15th hole. "I ripped the ball and it looked as though it had pitched
NATIONAL networks are lining up to broadcast the Wyre Forest election count next Thursday. Unprecedented media interest will focus on the election count at the Glades Arena in what could be one of the stories of the election. The stand by Health Concern
FISHING for votes was on the election agenda at a Kidderm-inster chip shop. Foley's Fish Bar is serving up lip-smacking delicacies in its quest to ensure all parties get a battering. Nick Akathiotis, of Foleys Fish Bar, rustles up an election special
WYRE Forest parliamentary candidate Dr Richard Taylor is taking to the road with a campaign trailer, unveiled this week. Prospective Wyre Forest parliamentary candidate Dr Richard Taylor with his wife, Chris. The trailer, which has been prepared by supporters
The Quality Hotel will host an open-air production of Shakespeare's Two Gentlemen of Verona. Councillors gave the go-ahead subject to a fire safety risk assessment. The MDCC Theatre Company will stage the production at the hotel on July 1 after permission
CONSERVATIVE defence spokesman Iain Duncan-Smith made his second visit to Wyre Forest in less than six months when he met veterans from ex-service organisations in Stourport. The Shadow Secretary of State for Defence joined Wyre Forest Conservative parliamentary
THE Break-a-Leg Theatre Company will be hitting all the right notes when they take to the stage with two spectacular musicals. The charity, based at St John Fisher School, Loxley Close in Church Hill, will be performing The Little Princess at the venue
SENIOR Home Office minister Paul Boateng paid a flying visit to Kidderminster to see the latest efforts to beat crime in the town. The deputy Home Secretary met police, housing officers and Victim Support staff bidding to cut crime, especially burglary
GENERAL Election candidates in constituencies bordering Wyre Forest include former Kidderminster mayor Nigel Knowles who is standing for Labour in the Ludlow constituency which takes in Cleobury Mortimer. Leominster (taking in Rock, Ribbesford, Bliss
THE final list of candidates contesting the 11 Wyre Forest seats for the Worcestershire County Council elections on Thursday, June 7 is: BRINTON PARK: William Bradley (Labour), Peter Carter (Liberal Democrat), Alfred Lote (Conservative) CHADDESLEY: Stephen
DAVID Lock donned a hard hat as he welcomed the Prescott Express to town. John Prescott and David Lock urge voters to jump on their bandwagon. Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott ditched his two jags for a coach as he stopped off to visit his Government
THE Wyre Forest election campaign has reached fever pitch with the news the Liberal Democrats have backed Health Concern. The party, which polled 4,377 at the last election, has announced it will not field a candidate in Wyre Forest and will back Health
EVERY vote will count in Wyre Forest in what promises to be the hottest General Election campaign in years. The district looks set to buck national voter apathy as it gears up for a thrilling three-horse race. Sitting Labour MP David Lock, Tory hopeful
REDDITCH captain Guy Muspratt this week played down the importance of tonight's trip to Birmingham Senior One rivals Bromsgrove. The Senior Two West side have the chance of a scalp in the Birmingham Senior Knockout Cup tonight (6.30pm start) after beating
IT'S easy to see why Wythall Theatre Company has swept the awards board lately if the psychological thriller Blood Money at the Palace Theatre is anything to go by, writes Melina Cannon. This latest production was a welcome departure from previous comedies
A DROP-IN clinic which helps young people on a range of issues from drugs to sex is to be extended across Redditch, writes Becky Procter. A Time 4U clinic opened recently in Winyates and a number of volunteer youngsters have just finished formal training
UP to 20 ambulance paramedics and technicians in Redditch will be trained to use a life-saving piece of medical equipment by the end of next week, writes Becky Procter. The piece of kit, known as a 12-lead ECG, has been piloted in the town and has proved
David Bannister (Labour) David, aged 37, lives with his partner, Jackie, and their two-year-old daughter, Eleanor. He is a senior microwave research engineer, specialising in the design of integrated circuits for communication systems. He lives in Worcester
ALVECHURCH and Hopwood captain Nick Jones has backed his side to win promotion from Worcester Three despite a start which has yielded just one win from five. The Birmingham Road side recorded a winning draw against lowly Himbleton on Saturday, their third
BROMSGROVE has been highlighted as one of the most closely contested seats in the General Election -- according to a report by an independent electoral monitoring group. The town is one of only 214 constituencies where the most recently elected MP is
INKBERROW welcome back 'The Blades' for the visit of Overbury on Sunday (2.30pm start). University students Tom Harris, Nick Ace and Pete McFarlane are set to play their first match for the side. And the all-rounders will be joined by opening bowler Ed
ALCESTER & Ragley visited Ashton and, after being put in bat on a green wicket, the Ashton opening pair, Archer and Cooper, gave their side a good start with an opening stand of 62. The Ashton middle order was tied down by excellent bowling from Mark
COOKHILL lost their Worcester Six match by 40 runs at Brintons. Batting first on a pitch which gave nothing to the bowlers, Brintons set a difficult target of 246 off 45 overs, losing only two wickets along the way. Cookhill started badly, losing the
Exhall and Wixford lost the toss against previously unbeaten neighbours Bidford who elected to bat. The league leaders got off to a good start with Maser Nash getting a quick fifty, well supported by captain Nigel Wilson who took the innings on with a
Hewell confirmed their status as league leaders with a comfortable seven wicket victory at Teme Valley to record their fifth league win out of five matches. Batting first, Teme Valley were restricted to a total of 130, with Alan Smith again the mainstay
THE Bromsgrove Advertiser/Messenger District Football League holds its annual general meeting on Tuesday June 12. The meeting is expected to discuss the league constitution for next season, with a number of promotion and relegation issues set to be finalised
BROMSGROVE has been highlighted as one of the most closely contested seats in the General Election -- according to a report by an independent electoral monitoring group. The town is one of only 214 constituencies where the most recently elected MP is
CANDIDATES are lining up for the county council election contest -- with two by-elections for the district council due to take place at the same time. The final nominations for Worcestershire County Council elections have now been received for the June
Who is standing where... CANDIDATES standing in the forthcoming Worcestershire County Council Elections Thursday June 7, 2001 Alvechurch: Docker, Sandra (Lib Dem) Wythall. Lord, George (Con) Marlbrook. Waters, Derek (Lab) Alvechurch. Hagley and Furlongs
TWO large election posters placed on wooden frames by the Conservative Party at Norton Farm, in Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, were destroyed by vandals on Sunday night. Similar posters have been put on private land at all main road approaches to the town
WORCESTER City have released utility player, Andy Bradley, after a back injury left his fitness in doubt. The 31-year-old, who signed from Stafford Rangers, sustained the injury at the end of last season. Boss, John Barton, said it was too big a gamble
A BROMSGROVE firm is offering exciting opportunities for school leavers. Stoke Works-based PolymerLatex says good staff with the right skills are hard to find. When the firm heard about a new Government work-based training initiative, bosses jumped at
REDDITCH Arrows coach Chris Halford said matches against Cheshire Romans and Nottingham Caesars hold the key to a place in the play-offs. The Division One newcomers opened the season with two defeats to table-topping Gateshead Senators, the latest a 12
STUDLEY husband and wife team Claire and Mike Dagnall limped home joint last in the Embassy Challenge angling event in Spain. Former Ladies National Champion Claire landed a 6.1kg carp on the second day but it was not enough as the Midland Match pair
THE White Hart Premier side visited Bournville Sports on Saturday and on a hard bumpy green, took the hosts to the last game before losing by 8 shots. Best winner for Hart was Chris Hollins showing a return to form, winning 21-4. On the following day
Redditch Arrows fell to a second straight loss in a tight 12-0 defeat to league leaders Gateshead Senators. Despite controlling the game the Arrows, in their first home game of the season, were unable to capitalise on scoring opportunities and Gates-head
REDDITCH Road & Path Cycling Club ran two Audax events on Sunday. The 100k ride took riders to Evesham, Wellesbourne and Wilmcote, whilst the 200k circuit went further afield to take in Blockley. Both rides started and finished at The Cricket Club
TWO Redditch golf clubs missed out on a dream trip to Portugal in the Lombard Trophy. Dave Stewart and Jamie Pollard of Redditch Kingfisher, and David Down and J Murdoch of Redditch finished outside the top 15 in a Midland regional final at Coventry.
THE "grey" vote is one that aspiring Westminster hopefuls ignore at their peril. With an increasing number of people living to riper old ages, they make up a significant number of electors. Their influence spreads even further, however, than their one-man
Evesham is faced with the same choice as other areas the length and breadth of the country. We, the Labour Party are offering expanded investment in public services - hospitals, schools the police and many more - based on sound public finances (having
I AM campaigning strongly on my party's national policies, but I am also emphasising the rotten deal Worcestershire has had from so-called New Labour in the last four years. The government refuses to give us a fair share of national spending for local
There are four local matters about which I am especially concerned. I will go on giving my total support to the preservation and development of the wonderful service provided by the Pershore Community Hospital. I will continue to do what I can to ensure
I stand for the Greens to give the voter an alternative. I don't like the direction that the country, and county, are heading and would like to see positive change. This past winter we have seen the county afflicted by fuel, flood and foot and mouth disease
Waqar Azmi (Labour) Waqar, aged 31, lives in Worcestershire with wife, Haseena, who is a clinical psychologist in the NHS. Waqar is chief executive of Worcestershire Racial Equality Council and has advised the Home Office, police and probation service
VOTERS in the Vale go to the polls on June 7 - which is also the date for the General Election - to elect members to Worcestershire County Council. All 57 of the council's seats are being contested, with eight of them in the Vale. Below are details of
A HEARTBROKEN Rubery woman whose horse had its legs virtually severed by metal railings after vandals cut down fencing at its stables this week branded the culprits "sick". Lyall Garden's resident Hayley Wright's 14-year-old horse, Buster, had to be destroyed
A TALENTED teenager from Stoke Heath has landed a part in what could be a smash hit musical of the future. Jo Hargreaves, of Dark Lane, passed two auditions for KOBA -- Man of Steel after seeing an advert for the show in Stage magazine. The show, penned
THERE seems to be a disturbing trend for drivers racing through Worcester at high speed through built up areas without wearing seat belts and while using mobile phones. This is extremely stupid, dangerous and only showing off. When are the police going
ONCE upon a time, there was a Prime Minister who thought he had a wonderful set of clothes (policies). Really, he was naked, but all his supporters could not see, until a little boy (with a bald head) started shouting that the Prime Minister was naked
A YOUNG Droitwich sailor is on the lookout for sponsorship as she prepares for a prestigious international event next month. Carrie Vaughan, of Elgar Crescent, will compete in the World Open 420 Championships for two-person boats, in Ravenna, Italy, in
The five candidates contesting the Redditch seat on June 7 are profiled below:
THE Liberal Democrats are fielding Mike Ashall as their prospective Parliamentary candidate for Redditch. Born in Dudley, the father of three has lived in Headless Cross for 22 years and has stood as a candidate in both borough and county elections since
GEORGE Flynn is married with two teenage children and has lived in Redditch for nearly 20 years. He left school at 15 to help run the family business in Birmingham, which he still runs today. A member of many conservation groups, his main interests are
THE official Labour prospective Parliamentary candidate for Redditch is Jacqui Smith. Ms Smith is married to Richard Timney and has two children. She has lived in the town since 1986. The Labour candidate said she had been honoured to serve the town as
The candidates for the Redditch seat tell us their views on key issues below:
Britain has been held back by under-investment in education. The Conservatives failed to fund schools and colleges adequately. Labour has done too little to put things right. In schools they have invested in paperwork, not people, demoralised teachers
OUR party believes in a return to more traditional methods of teaching. I want to see the balance of power taken from educational bureaucrats more towards governors, headteachers, teachers them- selves and more involvement of parents to encourage. Equal
Education, Education, Education - that was Tony Blair's main promise to this country and to Redditch at the last General Election. We moved to Redditch with our two teenage children at the beginning of 2000 and bought a home, along with many other people
I TAUGHT for 11 years in Worcestershire, starting my career in Redditch. Now my own children are in local schools and I've seen the improvements a Labour Government has made. The literacy and numeracy strategies were opposed by the Conservatives and would
UNDER the Conservative Government in 1993, many hospitals faced closure, including Harfield, Highfield and many more. Labour claimed they would make improvements to the NHS. Four years on, is it any better? The Alexandra Hospital has had its problems
THE NHS suffered from under-investment for 18 years under previous Conservative governments. Labour has unnecessarily stuck to the Tory spending plans. Consequently, the NHS still lacks the capacity to give patients the first-class treatment they deserve
THE Health Service was founded in 1948. It was a wonderful achievement - free medical treatment for all our people, from all backgrounds, and has served our nation well. Then in the 1980s, the Tory Government started its policy to dismantle it. Hundreds
WE in the Conservative Party are committed to a comprehensive National Health Service which is free to all its users. Too many of us, unfortunately, experience a second-class system. Here in Redditch, we have a first-class hospital in the Alexandra and
Redditch Police arrested and bailed a person for allegedly stealing money from pay phones at the Alexandra Hospital, Woodrow Drive. The arrest was made last Sunday.
A mobile phone and laptop computer worth £2,150 were stolen from a car parked at the Dog Pub, Mappleborough Green, while the owner was having a meal. The theft took place between 6- 6.30pm on Monday.
ONE of the most important things a government should do is ''balance the books'', which many have failed to do. We need a just economy, fair to people's needs, not just one based on greed, selfishness or corruption. Back in 1894, people who owned large
POLICE are trying to trace a man who joined in an assault on a 32-year-old man outside a Redditch club. A woman has been interviewed following the incident which began with a scuffle inside Arrow Country Club at about 12.05am on Saturday, May 26. Police
Britain's economy can prosper outside the European Union. Britain at present trades globally, the fact we are now the fourth largest economy in the world confirms this. Although the UK is in the EU, we thankfully are not in the single currency, as Germany
MORE than 40 per cent of all crimes committed in the north east of Redditch since April have been solved after a police station opened up in the area, writes Becky Procter. Officers moved in to a station based above the neighbourhood office in Winyates
An 18-year-old Greenlands man was sent to a young offenders' institution for four weeks after being convicted of a string of offences by Redditch magistrates. David Barratt, of Granhill Close, was convicted of failing to attend an appointment at Youth
WYTHALL police are stepping up patrols in the village after a serious shed fire. Fire crews were called out on Wednesday, May 23, after arsonists set fire to a bush, which spread to a fence and the shed, which backs on to the Beaudesert Nature Park in
IAN Gregory, 25, came to Bromsgrove from Yorkshire in 1998 after studying environmental manage- ment and technology at Sunderland. He works in Worcester and is engaged to be married in September. Mr Gregory said: ''The UK Independence Party stands for
DREAMS are becoming reality in Salford Priors after the village received £264,997 from the National Lottery. After an agonising wait the Salford Priors Memorial Hall Committee has been awarded the massive grant towards its building and refurbishment project
PETER McDonald, 53, is a lecturer at Wolverhampton College. He lives in the district of Bromsgrove with his wife, Christine, and has two grown-up daughters and two young grandchildren. Mr McDonald became a county councillor in 1985 and a district councillor
VOTERS in Alcester, Bidford and Studley have five candidates to choose from in the Stratford constituency. They are:
AFTER being closed over Easter for the first time in 43 years because of foot and mouth, Ragley Hall will again be opening its gates to the public tomorrow. Visitors will be asked to drive through the disinfected straw at the main gates and all car wheels
Mick Davies lives with his mother, Vera, in Wellesbourne. His family consists of Jeanne, his partner, and other members. In 1979 he joined the army, leaving in 1984. During the next five years he worked at the leisure centre in Stratford and as a landscape
A RANGE of events will provide entertainment with the Forest of Arden Arts Festival and Alcester and Arden Folk Festival weeks away. The arts festival events kick off on Sunday, June 10, with the Alcester Garden Walkabout for the Imperial Cancer Research
THE Mayor of Alcester has renewed her campaign for a sub-post office in the town. Wendy eatherhead acted after pensioners arrived at the High Street main office to find it closed. She said many of Alcester's elderly folk were still having to fork out
CANDIDATES in the county council election are: Redditch wards Batchley Colin Beardwood (Labour); David Glover (Green); June Griffiths (Conservative); Nigel Hicks (Lib Dem). Church Hill William Hartnett (Labour); Kevin Hunt (Conservative); Diane Thomas
FOR weeks, political parties have been working hard to secure votes. But another dedicated group have also been preparing quietly behind the scenes for tomorrow's big night - the returning officer and his team. The post of returning officer is an ancient
I AM most concerned about the latest craze among the brain-dead of smashing alcopop or similar bottles. I have been walking my dog in Droitwich Lido Park almost every day for the past ten years and I thought I had seen it all what with vandalism, fast
I UNDERSTAND that in future Homo sapiens will only be allowed into Bromsgrove's Sanders Park if they are kept on a lead at all times and are accompanied by a dog. R Southwell, Crabtree Drive, Bromsgrove.
EARLY on Census Day (April 29) my wife and I completed the form and by 10am I personally posted the official yellow envelope at the main post office box in Bromsgrove High Street. On Sunday May 13 we had a visit from the enumerator asking us whether we
June 9, 1951 MR HJ Paramore, a master needle maker whose election as chairman of Redditch Urban District Council was unanimously agreed at Monday's meeting of the council. Mr Paramore's appointment as civic head comes after seven years membership of the
June 4, 1976 DELIVERIES from Halfords nationwide headquarters at Redditch ground to a halt this week as striking drivers picketed the depot at Washford. Grounded lorries filled the firm's car park after drivers walked out on Tuesday morning over a security
ABOUT 60 years ago, Church Green was an island surrounded by three roads open to traffic, as can be seen in this picture loaned by Mrs F McCutcheon of Wordsworth Avenue, Headless Cross. Mrs McCutcheon recently came across the old postcard while spring
MATTHEW Jenkins scored both goals as Wychbold RBL won the town's Minor Charity Cup in a 2-0 victory over Bromsgrove league opponents Access Security Athletic on Sunday. Jenkins's brace completed a fantastic season for the striker, who scored 37 goals
WYTHALL Flower Club is set to fold if no new members join the existing green-fingered crew this year. The club, which has been running for more than 40 years, is now down to 27 members and has already started fundraising to continue. Flower demonstrators
SOME decades ago, a very old building in Bromsgrove was due for demolition and its site for redevelopment. There were those who thought it deserved a chance of survival and the newly formed Avoncroft Museum of Buildings was brave enough to take it on.
THE nation -- and that includes Bromsgrove -- goes to the polls tomorrow, not only for the General Election, but also for the Worcestershire County Council Elections. And your Advertiser/Messenger will ensure you, our readers, can keep up to date with
TRADERS in Bromsgrove fear their businesses could be forced to close as roadworks going on outside their premises continue to drive customers away. Paul Gill and Tim Court, joint owners of P and T Models, in Worcester Road, have launched a petition calling
TAKE a look at this medal haul! The proud owner of these gongs -- four golds and two bronze -- is ace athlete Laurie Brookes, who stormed to success in two championships last month. The 16-year-old took gold in the 4x100 metre relay and long jump, and
A BATTLING Blackwell woman is "living on a knife edge" because the hundreds of animals she cares for at the village sanctuary face being slaughtered. Linda Hill has managed Hillfields Animal Sanctuary, in Greenhill, for more than 20 years. It started
A STOKE Prior woman is 'turning' her hand to a new task in a bid to raise cash for the Royal British Legion. Mary King, from Foley Gardens, can usually be seen gracing the woodturner's workshop at Stoke Heath-based Avoncroft Museum at weekends but she
BELBROUGHTON ice hockey star Tobie Merricks is out to give his best shot at England trials in July. The 13-year-old Hagley Middle School pupil was selected for the country's under-14 trials after impressing for the Midlands at the Midland Conference finals
CHILDREN in the Bromsgrove area are in safe hands thanks to the district council which has become the first local authority in the country to send its staff on a new course. Bromsgrove District Council's 17 play area minders who carry out daily inspections
ANIMAL-LOVERS in Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa should be careful their pets don't annoy their neighbours, according to a recent survey. The poll, carried out by pet insurers, Primary Direct, discovered that 11 per cent of homeowners in the West Midlands
A FUND RAISING evening to help pay a court fine for Bromsgrove's Labour Party's candidate in tomorrow's general election led to a war of words this week between him and his Tory opponent. Magistrates recently ordered county and district councillor and
A PUBLIC inquiry into controversial plans to build a 400-house estate in the Stoke Prior green belt will take place next month. Bromsgrove District Council will defend its decision not to include the site in the Local Plan against an appeal by developers
"SILLY hillocks" posing as traffic calming measures in Lickey End are causing dangers to pedestrians according to a villager who got a bruised arm after being hit by a bus. Writer John Slim, of Alcester Road, was standing on the footpath outside his home
LEADERS of churches and schools in Bromsgrove have had a mixed reaction to plans to replace the Easter holidays with a fixed, non-religious spring break. The Government has published the results of a consultation into changing the current three-term academic
STAFF at privately-run Blakenhurst prison are refusing to co-operate with the Prison Service as it prepares to take over the running of the jail near Bromsgrove. Approximately 95 per cent of the 280 staff at the Tardebigge jail are members of the Prison
THE wheels are in motion for the best value review of sports facilities in the district to get under way. Members of Bromsgrove District Council's cabinet are tonight due to be presented with a report in preparation for the review this year. The authority's
FREAK legal circumstances have stalled plans by Stoke Prior parish councillors to provide new facilities at Stoke Heath recreation ground. As well as extending the recreation ground and providing a football pitch, the council wanted to construct a basketball
ONE of the entrants in this weekend's Bromsgrove Fun Run will have a distinct advantage -- an extra pair of legs. Zola, the marathon dog, will take part in the 10km Leuk-aemia Research Fun Run on Sunday at Bromsgrove Rugby Club, in Finstall Road, along
A KIND-HEARTED Barnt Green optician has been officially honoured by an overseas government for his charitable work. Claude Abban was presented with a special award by the High Commissioner for Ghana at the country's annual awards ceremony in London. It
DECENT people who work hard and obey the law, are outraged that criminals seem free to make our lives a misery. Crime was falling under the Conservatives, but with Labour that reduction has virtually stopped. Violent crime has risen 15 per cent since
YOUNGSTERS who aspire to become firefighters can make their dreams come true. Droitwich Spa has had its own Young Firefighters' Association (YFA) since January. Teenagers train under the watchful eye of the town's retired firefighters including David
GOVERNMENT sources tell us that the crime rate is decreasing but this is not the view of most people as recorded by a MORI poll published in The Daily Telegraph in January. The Police Federation confirms the people's opinion and warns us that police officers
IN recent years the number of crimes of violence has steadily increased and the general public has become deeply concerned - and rightly so. I believe that people perpetrating these crimes should be sentenced to terms of imprisonment which should normally
FOR the first time in 50 years Wyre Forest has had an MP with a direct stake in local education. I'm the only candidate with children in local state schools. That's why, like thousands of other parents, I care passionately about education. Our children
WE all wish to see a fair share of the financial cake coming into this county's schools as it is unfair that our schools receive less Government money than schools in other counties. One secondary school head teacher has put it to me excellently. "Lack
THE controversy over whether Redditch taxi drivers can talk about sex, religion or politics to passengers was re-ignited when one of the Tory big guns dropped in on the election trail. Shadow Home Secretary Anne Widdecombe was in town with Tory candidate
I PUT forward a 10-point plan for education in this country. Recruit far more primary and secondary school teachers so that class sizes can be reduced to 20 pupils. A dramatic improvement in educational standards would result. Raise teachers' basic salaries
THE streets of Redditch were sharply in focus when a famous film producer paid a visit to support Labour candidate Jacqui Smith. Lord Puttnam, a long-time Labour activist and producer of movie classics Chariots of Fire and Memphis Belle, was out and about
THE newly opened Litten Tree pub in Redditch Town Centre was celebrating on Monday after a successful opening weekend. After a VIP night on Friday with about 200 of the town's most influential characters, more than 400 attended the public opening on Saturday
REDDITCH Orchestra's next concert is an evening devoted to the music of Worcestershire's most famous composer, Edward Elgar. The concert is at St Stephen's Church on Saturday, June 9, and includes the Violin Concerto, Overture Froissart and Enigma Variations
A MAGICAL fairytale is on offer at the Palace Theatre for three to eight year olds next Saturday. The Shoemaker and the Elf, presented by Inside Out Theatre, tells the tale of a poor shoemaker whose luck is about to change for the better. Cue the magic
Thursday, June 7 Redditch Amateur Theatrical Society (RATS): Habeas Corpus, St Luke's Memorial Hall, Evesham Road, Headless Cross. Until June 9. Tickets from 521086. Mary Chapin Carpenter plus special guest, Symphony Hall, Birmingham. Tickets from 0121
HUNDREDS of probation staff learned how to boost their performance in the workplace when they attended the new West Mercia Probation Service's conference. Around 350 delegates from offices throughout Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire got together
A comprehensive list of General Election candidates standing in the Worcestershire and Herefordshire voting areas. WORCESTER: Adams, R D (Con) Chamings, R J (UK Ind) Chandler, P J (LD) Foster, M J* (Lab) 1997: Labour BROMSGROVE: Gregory, I N (UK Ind)
On the eve of the General Election we asked the Worcester candidates the fundamental question, why should you vote for them? Here are their replies. Now it's time for you to make a decision before you cast your vote tomorrow, Thursday, June 7, 2001.
HE SAYS: Are you fed up with policticians growing farther apart from the people and their aspirations? Are you disillusioned with there being nobody in politics who comes from the real world in which you live and work? You are right to be so, especially
HE SAYS: A vote for me tomorrow is a vote for Britain to keep the pound (not just for a few years!), leave the European Union and restore government to this country. At present 80 per cent of our laws and regulations are made in Brussels. I am happy to
Julie Kirkbride, married to former shadow Northern Ireland secretary Andrew Mackay, has a son and is a former journalist. The best way we can tackle crime is by restoring the 20 police officers lost to the Bromsgrove force since 1997. More police on the
Margaret Rowley is leader of the opposition on Wychavon District Council, and chaired the council's environment committee from 1996 until 1999. She is married with three adult children and has lived in Worcestershire for 11 years. After graduating in
We asked the candidates the following questions about issues which affect the lives of everyone in the constituency. - What initiatives would you implement to reduce crime and vandalism in your constituency? - How would you ensure the LEA would receive
During 18 years in office the Conservatives pursued a superficially populist policy on crime. It failed - crime doubled. Violent crime rose year on year and convictions fell. Labour tries to sound tough but remains just as ineffective. Despite repeated
Karen Lumley is married with two children and is a former manager of an engineering company. The Conservative party would begin to reduce crime by increasing the numbers of police officers on our streets by reversing the cuts that Labour have made. In
Jacqui Smith, the Labour candidate, is married with two children and is a former who worked in Worcester. Crime has fallen since 1997, but I know that vandalism and yobbish behavior can ruin the peace of mind of local people. Tackling this sort of behavior
Father-of-two Ian Morris, aged 59, is a chartered surveyor based in Malvern and has set up his own practice. He was educated at the same school as former Prime Minister John Major and used to be a Conservative. Agriculture and tourism in Worcestershire
Waqar Azmi, aged 31, lives in Worcestershire with his wife Haseena, an NHS clinical psychologist. The chief executive of Worcestershire Racial Equality Council, Mr Azmi was previously an ethnic studies lecturer in Lancashire and Southampton. I am a Labour
Sir Michael Spicer has been a Worcestershire MP since 1974. He and his wife Ann have three children. Sir Michael has been deputy chairman of the Conservative party, as well as holding several ministerial posts. The rural economy here in Worcestershire
Tony Eaves is 65 years old, married to Jean and they have two children. He lives at Martin Hussingtree. He is the managing director of a window, doors and blinds manufacturing business. I shall request adequate Government funding to cover the interim
A YOUNG woman was recovering in hospital today after being impaled on railings in Hereford city centre. The victim was carried to hospital with the arrowhead railings still embedded in her foot and lower torso after the accident at 3am. Police have launched
POLICE are appealing for people living on a Worcester estate to back a campaign to crack down on vandals. The plea comes after a spate of attacks in Tolladine. Bricks have been hurled on to the roof of the council housing office in Rose Avenue, windows
MR Luff has been a Conservative MP since 1992, and lives in the county with his wife Julia and two children. Formerly a businessman in the communications industry, he holds responsibility in William Hague's team for the NHS and Treasury. The foot-and-mouth
POTENTIAL university students could benefit from an £80,000 cash boost aimed at encouraging undergraduates who come from families on modest incomes. Up to 40 bursaries, each worth a total of £2,000 over three years, are being made available by University
We asked Wyre Forest's four candidates the following questions about issues which affect the lives of everyone in the constituency. - Lots of people are unhappy about the downgrading of Kidderminster hospital. If you were the MP, what would you do to
NINE out of 20 large general election billboards put up by the Tories on approach roads to Bromsgrove were smashed during a single night. District councillor Ted Tibby (Whitford), Conservative candidate Julie Kirkbride's agent said: "It was a night of
WE have opposed the downgrading from the outset and continue to campaign for accident and emergency services at Kidderminster. A Conservative Government would immediately implement a full-scale, independent review of health provision across Wyre Forest
THE downgrading of Kidderminster Hospital has been a disaster for the whole county and the opening of the new hospital, although improving the buildings for Worcester residents, will not improve access to health care. All patients will still be expected
WORCESTER families are able to take steps towards enjoying a quiet life today, thanks to city council staff. As part of National Noise Action Day they have been handing out leaflets in Bell Square in Worcester's CrownGate Shopping Centre until 3.30pm.
THE town's main shopping centre has been forced to employ security staff to crack down on vandalism. Salters' Shopping Centre now has two guards patrolling the precinct from 4pm to late evening. The move follows a spate of graffiti attacks and vandalism
He has lived in Worcestershire since 1978 and represented the Liberal Democrats at district and county council levels. He fought South Worcestershire in the General Elections of 1987 and 1992, and stood for Worcester City in 1997. He now lives in Malvern
FIVE police officers arrested a Worcester schoolboy after spotting him in an area from which they believed he was banned. The youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested by officers as he stood in Cranham Drive, Warndon on Monday evening
A GUITAR duo inspired by Bach and Benny Hill, a film soundtrack DJ and a 1960s 'beat' poet are among the highlights at a Malvern music festival. Malvern Wells CE Primary School's ambitious event, Wellstock, will take the town by storm this Saturday in
Mr Adams, aged 55, has been a Warwickshire county councillor since 1997 and a Stratford-upon-Avon district councillor since 1996. He's also a police authority member in Warwickshire. He is the sole proprietor of Richard Adams Sports Services, selling
WORCESTER covers about 8,320 acres. Its population in 1999 was estimated at 95,400. By 2011 this is expected to reach 100,000. Unemployment in March 2001 was 1,236. The economy has seen many changes. Traditionally the city has been famous for gloves,
KIND-hearted volunteers have been thanked by the Cancer Research Campaign. The district's charity fund-raisers have appealed for help in their aim to rally more support and raise more money in the next 12 months. Cancer Research Campaign director general
IT has been widely predicted that the turnout for the General Election will be the lowest ever in modern times. Not so long ago politicians were inspirational figures, their pictures hung on the walls of ordinary homes up and down the country; today they
1997 result: Julie Kirkbride, Conservative, 24,620; Peter McDonald, Labour, 19,775; Jennette Davy, Liberal Democrat, 6,200; Diana Winsor, Referendum, 1,411; Grace Wetton, UK Independence Party, 251. Conservative majority 4,845. Candidates 2001: Julie
1997 result: David Lock, Labour, 26,843; Anthony Coombs, Conservative, 19,897; David Cropp, Liberal Democrat, 4,377; William Till, Referendum, 1,956; Chris Harvey, Liberal, 1,670; James Millington, UK Independence Party, 312. Labour majority 6,946. Candidates
1997 result: Jacqui Smith, Labour, 22,280; Anthea McIntyre, Conservative, 16,155; Malcolm Hall, Liberal Democrat, 4,935, Richard Cox, Referendum, 1,151; Paul Davis, Natural Law Party, 227. Labour majority 6,125. Candidates 2001: Jacqui Smith, Labour,
1997 result: Peter Luff, Conservative, 24,092; Diane Smith, Labour, 14,680; David Barwick, Liberal Democrat, 9,458; Terence Watson, Referendum, 1,780; Don Ingles, UK Independence Party, 646; Alan Dyer, Natural Law Party, 163. Conservative majority 9,412
1997 result: Tess Kingham, Labour, 28,943, Douglas French, Conservative, 20,684, Pitambarum Munisamy, Liberal Democrat, 6,069, Andrew Reid, Referendum, 1,482, Anthony Harris, UK Independence Party, 455, Moira Hamilton, Natural Law, 281. Labour majority
1997 result: Diana Organ, Labour, 24,203, Paul Marland, Conservative, 17,860, Anthony Lynch, Liberal Democrat, 6,165, Dominic Hopkins, Referendum, 1,624, Gerald Morgan, Independent, 218, Colin Palmer, 21st Century, 80, Stephen Porter, Independent, 34.
1997 result: Paul Keetch, Liberal Democrat, 25,198; Sir Colin Shepherd, Conservative, 18,550; Chris Chappell, Labour, 6,596; Clive Easton, Referendum, 2,209. Liberal Democrat majority 6,648 Candidates 2001: Clive Easton, UK Independence Party, David Gillett
STOKE Heath international rally co-driver Andy Bull is to take to the narrow and twisty stages of North West Spain on Saturday when he tackles the Narron Rally, a round of the Spanish Rally Championship. Having just put down the phone to a call which
AMBITIOUS plans to reopen Droitwich Spa's canal system will cost an extra £2m. The restoration project was set to cost £7m but a new feasibility study says £9m is needed. The report was produced by British Waterways and the Waterways Trust for Worcest-ershire
A FRIGHTENED girl from Droitwich Spa was shot in the head when robbers attempted to snatch her mobile phone. The attack happened as the 15-year-old walked along a towpath behind Droitwich Sports and Leisure Centre, towards Briar Mill. She was shot from
THE first trained play area minders in the country will now look after half of Wythall's play areas, writes Matt Smith. Bromsgrove Council will send play area minders to an accredited training course to ensure children's safety. "The minders will randomly
ELECTIONEERING can be bad for your health. That was the lesson for one county council candidate after his trip to hospital last week with a broken leg. Tom Wareing, Conservative candidate for Crabbs Cross, was leafletting behind Evesham Road near Harry
THE new-look Abbey Hotel Golf and Country Club has been granted an extended public entertainment licence, despite residents' objections, writes Matt Smith. Licensing Sub-Committee members gave the go-ahead for the £4m club to extend drinking hours after
Children have helped Redditch Council's What Route Should We Take consultation, designed to update the council's decision making process. They coloured in pictures of the Democracy Bus, which visited neighbourhood centres. Competition winners who received
A FINAL proposal on how to develop a £1.5 million project to help families with young children in Redditch was completed yesterday, writes Becky Procter. The Surestart initiative has been created by the Government to help areas identified as needy and
RESIDENTS' objections to plans for a bus bay at Easemore Road resulted in a site visit being carried out yesterday (Tuesday). The application was proposed as part of alterations to Abbey High School under the Redditch Review and followed the Safer Routes
REDDITCH RFC are still waiting to learn their nearly four weeks after the season finished. After finishing at the foot of the Midlands Four West South table the Kingfishers have yet to be told whether they will be relegated. Woodrush have been given the
A SECURITY firm based in Bromsgrove has achieved a £1m turnover in its first year. Power Security Personnel Ltd, in High Street, employs 90 people and boss Richard Williams desperately needs more workers to meet his clients' needs. The company supplies
A police officer has set up football sessions for youngsters in a bid to keep them off the streets. South west Redditch beat manager Pc Richard Waterhouse has organised a professional coach for youngsters aged between 13 and 17. The sessions will run
THE Romans invaded Studley at the weekend and it was up to the children of the village, with a little help from some American friends, to see them off. This was the thrust of an event at Studley Junior School in New Road last week when children gathered
VITAL improvements are to be carried out to the electricity supply serving Astwood Bank and Feckenham by April 2002, writes Melina Cannon. Electricity supplier GPU Power UK, which was formerly Midlands Electricity, has confirmed the circuit that supplies
Boots the Chemist has denied reports it is to sell off Redditch- based subsidiary Halfords. Rumours circulated last week the company was ready to let the car parts retailer and servicer go. Boots corporate spokesman Francis Thomas said: "We can completely
WYTHALL Animal Sanctuary is holding a summer fair this year, instead of the annual open day. The open day, usually scheduled for the third Sunday in June, has been postponed because of foot and mouth. But the summer fair will continue in its place on
A STATE-of-the art cyber caf is on line to open its doors on Monday offering a range of services to young people in the town, writes Becky Procter. Redditch charity for the homeless Step Out Drop In and computer firm Interact 21 formed a partnership to
TWO stereos have been donated to the Citizens Advice Bureau following an appeal in the Redditch Advertiser. A stereo and speakers worth £120 were recently stolen from the waiting room of the Unicorn Hill branch.
FORMER Status Quo drummer Jeff Rich rounded off a mini tour of Redditch schools last week at Abbey High. He held a drum and percussion masterclass for pupils at five schools in Redditch, including St Peters First, Walkwood Middle, Church Hill Middle,
A REDDITCH girl has scooped a disco dancing award after competing against international opposition. Kyme Bailey, eight, from Oakenshaw South, won her under-10s solo freestyle award in a three-day competition at Weston-super-Mare. Kyme, who has been dancing
IN a match that saw an amazing 622 runs, Avoncroft First XI's Worcestershire County League Division Four home match with Old Vigornians finally ended in a draw. Vigornians had no hesitation in batting first and set the tempo for the day from the first
MEADOW Park Rovers need at least eight or nine new players for their step up to 11-a-side football next season. Rovers will play in the under-12 Stourport League, and manager Gary Tedstone needs new players to bolster his team for the new challenge. The
DROITWICH Spa First XI began their Sunday League campaign in winning style at St Peter's Fields against a talented Allens Cross side from Birmingham. In the V Sports Sunday League Premier Division, Droitwich bowled first and achieved a good start through
AN amazing five-wicket blast from Dave Horsfall inspired Droitwich Thirds to an excellent 72-run win over Aston Manor Thirds. Just as Spa seemed destined for a winning draw, Horsfall's introduction to the attack turned the game on its head as the home
FOR the second week running Droitwich Spa lost a Worcestershire County League Division One match they could have won. Chaddesley Corbett won by two wickets with three balls to spare in what proved to be a tense and exciting match at St Peter's Field.
BROMSGROVE Second XI secured a comprehensive victory over Shrewsbury Seconds on Saturday to confirm their highly placed league position. Town approached the match looking for a good result against their fellow promotion contenders, to re-establish their
A HOSTEL for the homeless in Droit-wich Spa looks set to close. The future of the Hanbury Road house is under consideration because of lack of use. Spa Housing Association was forced to adopt a strict letting policy owing to the nature of the accommodation
BUSINESSES are needed to sponsor flower displays and ensure the Spa's contribution to a national gardening competition is a blooming success. Droitwich Spa has entered the Britain in Bloom contest for a number of years, but the town has only ever been
DROITWICH pensioners were left baffled by bus drivers who ordered them to pay fares - ignoring their right to free travel. OAPs were told to cough up or get off First Midland Red buses at the weekend. Drivers refused to accept passes which offer free
A FORMER Status Quo drummer rocked a Droitwich Spa school to its foundations. Jeff Rich visited Witton Middle School, in Old Coach Road, for a drumming master class. The rock star set up his equipment in the assembly hall and was joined by 180 students
Kidderminster Harriers have agreed a new two-year deal with Irish midfielder Daire Doyle. The 20-year-old made 15 appearances for Harriers last season following a move from Coventry City. Boss Jan Molby said: "It was a big jump for Daire from playing
COMMUNITY spirited residents are needed to help the fight against crime in Droitwich Spa. Police want people to sign up as special constables to perform duties alongside town officers. Volunteers are welcome from all walks of life but recruits must be
ANDY Bichel struck an early blow for Worcestershire as their County Championship Division Two clash with Sussex got under way at Horsham today. The Australian paceman trapped Richard Montgomerie lbw for 12 as the home side reached 31-1 after 10 overs.
WORCESTER Rugby Club's pack has been further strengthened with the signing of Joe Ross from Bedford Blues. The New Zealander, who established himself as one of the best hookers in National One last season, comes to Sixways after signing a one-year deal
FOLKS who want the town's canals reopened are organising their biggest fundraising bash ever - culminating with a wet and wild water festival. Droitwich Canals Trust is planning to collect bags of cash at this year's four-day beer and wine festival. The
WORCESTERSHIRE Saints suffered another heavy defeat in the TotalRL.com Rugby League Conference, going down 66-6 away to Gloucester Warriors. Saints made the short journey to Chosen Hill Rugby Club looking for revenge over a Warriors side that had completed
Turnpole can roll back the years and strike for his in-form stable in the Leahurst Showcase Handicap at Haydock Park tomorrow. The 10-year-old looked as good as ever on his only outing so far this season, when chasing home Lemon Bridge at York's Dante
Gloucester Warriors (36) 66 Worcester Saints (0) 6 TotalRL.com Rugby League Conference ONCE again this local derby turned into a one sided match with the Warriors dominant from the kick off. Slack tackling allowed Gloucester to score three converted tries
BUSINESS was on the agenda as the four General Election candidates were put under the spotlight in a Question Time session. General Election candidates David Lock and Jim Millington taking part in Any Questions. Members of Wyre Forest Business Forum grilled
IT was a schoolboys' reunion for Dr Richard Taylor when independent MP Martin Bell joined satirical star John Fortune to boost his campaign. Martin Bell, Richard Taylor and John Fortune outside Kidderminster Hospital. Both Dr Taylor and the former foreign
RURAL issues were top of the agenda when Tory agriculture spokesman Tim Yeo came to town. Tim Yeo (right) and Conservative candidate Mark Simpson are pictured talking to district farmers. Shadow agricultural minister Mr Yeo met Wyre Forest farmers to
DAVID Lock unveiled a "cunning plan" to woo voters in Kidderminster in the guise of television's Baldrick. Tony Robinson gives the thumbs up to David Lock's election quest. Blackadder's hapless dogsbody - alias actor Tony Robinson - came to the town to
REDDITCH Amateur Theatrical Society's summer production of Alan Bennett's farcical comedy Habeas Corpus begins tomorrow. It is essentially a celebration of the English obsession with class, sex and death and features characters such as the lecherous Canon
BUSINESS will be on the agenda for the four General Election candidates at a Question Time session next week. David Lock, Labour, Mark Simpson, Conservative, Richard Taylor, Health Concern, and Jim Millington, UK Independence, will be put under the microscope
CONSERVATIVE candidate Mark Simpson put his money where his mouth is over his anti-Euro stance. Volunteer Keith Fletcher and Conservative candidate Mark Simpson. He drove home his message on the European currency by bringing the Tory Keep the Pound truck
HEALTH Concern launched its election campaign outside Kidderminster Town Hall on Saturday. Richard Taylor on the campaign trail with Allan Pritchard. Candidate Dr Richard Taylor said it was an "enjoyable and stimulating" experience due to the positive
DAVE Sims believes new Worcester head coach John Brain can lead the rugby club into the Zurich Premiership. The popular lock, who enjoyed an outstanding season at Sixways last year, has given his full backing to his former Kingsholm coach who was installed
WORCESTER Rugby Club's pack has been further strengthened with the signing of Joe Ross from Bedford Blues. The New Zealander, who established himself as one of the best hookers in National One last season, comes to Sixways after signing a one-year deal
WYTHALL CC star Matthew Elwell was involved in his first ever draw at the weekend. The villagers posted 164-9 with Ash Hussein top scoring on 35 and Mick Tongue adding 31. Opponents Great Barr raced to 100-2 early on but, incredibly, finished on the same
AGATHA Christie's classic whodunnit play The Hollow saw the players' stalwart performers joined by new members, writes A Noakes. After a slow start introducing the characters and plot, the audience became aware that the soon-to-be deceased Dr Christow
STUDLEY boosted themselves ahead of Saturday's basement battle at Olton and West Warwicks by picking up their first win of the season at the weekend. Overseas star Brandon Miller top scored with 35 as Studley posted 182-9 before skittling out their opponents
KEVIN Bayliss smashed a four to keep Feckenham in touch with neighbours and Worcester Two leaders Astwood Bank on Saturday. The last man guided the visitors to their 123 target after 32 overs to leave the Millers second, 31 points behind their Sambourne
I WAS appalled to read the reported comments of John Fraser, manager of the Highways Partnership, that the chicanes at Fairfield looked fine on paper but after complaints from villagers regarding safety, he decided to scrap the scheme. No mention was
ASTWOOD Bank continued their impressive start to the Worcester Two season with a comfortable seven wicket win over Eastnor. Seamer Andy Clayton stole the show with four wickets in as many deliveries to finish off the visitors for 130. Ian Bowes, with
HEWELL stayed top of the Worcester Six table with an easy fifth win in five on Saturday. The Donkey Hole Lane side brushed aside Teme Valley after Alan Smith took five for 41 with Valley finishing 130-8. Ian Williams hit 42 and Keith Pannell an unbeaten
ALCESTER and Ragley Park are set to ask opponents to start matches three hours early because of foot and mouth restrictions at their Ragley Park home. Alcester have been unable to hold matches at the venue because of the closure of the stately home. Mark
STRUGGLING Exhall and Wicksford upset the form book to shock Cotswold Premier leaders and neighbours Bidford on Saturday. The derby brought Exhall their second win of the season after a rapid Tom Heneghan 40. The leaders got off to a flier but were held
GREAT Alne captain Craig Millard has written to the Cotswold Hills League to complain about the state of Division Two pitches. Millard was upset after the struggling Cotswold Two side lost on a poor surface at Henley and was left fuming after seeing his
REDDITCH lost by five wickets at Pelsall in a match not short of controversial decisions. The visitors were put into bat on a damp pitch where openers Guy Muspratt (15) and Steve Juckes (14) put on 35 for the first wicket. Jason Morgan (36), Spencer Cox
LABOUR'S General Election campaign came up against red tape this week when officials were told they were banned from using a folding table in Bromsgrove High Street when handing out leaflets. Labour candidate Peter McDonald's agent, Sean Shannon, received
BROMSGROVE Tories officially launched their General Election bandwagon on Monday with a little help from Angus, their candidate's seven-month-old son. Sporting a "Vote for Mummy" T-shirt, he appeared to be eager to get on with the campaign when he posed
LABOUR'S candidate for the Bromsgrove seat in the forthcoming General Election has been invited to the launch of the party's manifesto at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham, today. Peter McDonald and a group of party workers will be present
MATCH results this week begin with the Furnace Mill two day festival over Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday, both days fished on the Furnace and Mucky Meadow Pools. Top rod on Sunday was Paul Cook (Furnace Mill) who pole fished maggots at Mucky peg 31 for
A BROMSGROVE hotel will become an Indian cuisine hot spot with the arrival of one of the world's greatest curry chefs. The Hanover International Hotel will play host to the culinary skills of Udit Sarkhel who will cook a variety of food to help celebrate
THE education of health staff in Bromsgrove and Droitwich Spa has been recognised. Worcestershire Community and Mental Health NHS Trust has been granted the Investors in People title. The award is a national standard stating a level of good practice in
