Archive

  • County mourns men killed in bomb blast

    THE brother of the former Worcestershire man feared dead in the Bali nightclub bombing said his family was now "philosophical" about his fate. Paul Holmes, from Droitwich, said his brother, Tom, had not yet been formally identified at the scene of the

  • Blood left on flat wall

    A witness in an affray trial disobeyed a judge's order not to talk to his father during a lunch break at Worcester Crown Court. Amanda Smith gave evidence that she saw father and son talking near the court entrance when she went out for a cigarette. Prosecutor

  • Lucky escape from fence fall

    A CHAUFFEUR to celebrities almost ended up seeing stars of a different kind when he narrowly avoided being crushed by a sheet metal fence which collapsed as he was walking past. Richard Widdowson was walking down Worcester's Henwick Road having dropped

  • Third of post offices in two counties set to close

    A CLOSURE programme for one in every three urban post offices in Worcestershire and Herefordshire will begin as early as next January after winning the overwhelming support of MPs. The House of Commons voted by 271 to 170 to approve a £210m compensation

  • Fears over rescue plan

    A WEST Midlands Euro MP has attacked plans that could see stranded motorists left at the roadside to fend for themselves. Philip Bradbourn has criticised the Markov Report, which is currently going through the European Parliament. The report could see

  • Birthday bonanza!

    TO celebrate the 65th birthday of the coming together of the News and Times, Newsquest Midlands South managing director Andy Tipler starts the celebrations by the cutting of the cake. As an integral part of the community the Evening News is giving away

  • Man hid sherry in his jacket

    A WORCESTER man went into a city centre shop, grabbed four bottles of sherry and sneaked them under his coat before walking out. Jeffrey Hind was caught crouched down and smuggling the drinks under his jacket by CCTV footage, Worcester magistrates heard

  • Freed from fat attacker's clutches by firefighters

    A WOMAN dragged into bushes by a man who said he was going to rape her was saved by firefighters who heard her cries for help. The woman, in her late 30s, had left Zanzibar's nightclub and was between the club and Kidderminster fire station, in Castle

  • Help and advice for the public

    GETTING to grips with your teeth, feet and blood pressure will be just some of the advice available during a health day in the city. The event, which is open to the public, is the first of its kind to be held at Worcester YMCA, and will also tackle issues

  • Poor paths creating problems for elderly

    Kempsey are becoming housebound because of the condition of local footpaths, claims parish chairman Joy Clee. She said many people had complained to her about the state of the footpaths throughout the village. "We are encouraging older people to stay

  • Taxi man's fears

    A TAXI driver has warned people to be wary of getting into private hire cars without pre-booking, as he claims no insurance would be paid out in an accident. Wayne Meiklejohn, who drives a black cab, said his 18-year-old daughter got into a private hire

  • From little acorns...

    YOUNGSTERS in a Worcester village are celebrating after winning an award after transforming overgrown wasteland into a village amenity. The Abberley Tomorrow Youth Group won £500 from Worcestershire County Council's Community Pride Group for clearing

  • Woman died after crash

    A WOMAN has died following a car crash in Leominster. The victim was a passenger in a blue Nissan Micra that was in collision with a silver Volvo 740 on the A49 Hereford to Leominster Road at Dinmore. The victim, who was in the front seat, suffered head

  • Bromsgrove Rovers 3 Atherstone United 0

    Saturday, October 12, 2002 ON paper Atherstone United looked a tough prospect. In reality, Bromsgrove Rovers were barely troubled on their way to a 3-0 victory and eighth consecutive Dr Martens Western win. Gary Hackett and Jon Ford's side had a point

  • Flaming car just misses school

    AN arson attack on a car could have had catastrophic consequences for a Redditch school. The car was set on fire at the back of Throckmorton Road and pushed down a bank towards Dingleside Middle School at about 2am last Wednesday.

  • Men robbed on way home

    POLICE are hunting for the driver of an old white Fiesta and his passenger after they robbed two men at knifepoint in Wythall. The theft happened between 11.15- 11.30pm on Sunday, October 6, in Sycamore Road as the two victims were returning home after

  • Stabbed on doorstep

    A 20 year old was stabbed on the doorstep of a house in Felton Close, Matchborough, at about midnight on Friday. The man was taken to the Alexandra Hospital with cuts to his hands and face. Police believe the attacker was known to his victim and are appealing

  • Expect a rocket

    REDDITCH police are cracking down on firework dangers and have vowed to arrest anyone seen lighting or throwing them in the street in the run-up to bonfire night. Acting Chief Insp Angela Burnet said there had already been reports of people throwing fireworks

  • Teenager chases after wallet thief

    A TEENAGER gave chase after a thief snatched his wallet and ran off. The theft happened just after 2pm on Tuesday, October 1, in Callow Hill Lane near the Bramley Cottage pub. A 17 year old was walking along the road and was putting his bus pass back

  • Double strike gives Spa win

    BARRY Williams scored twice as Droitwich Spa Hockey Club Men's First XI won 2-1 at Walsall. Williams' double gave Spa their second successive victory in DTZ West Midlands Premier following their 3-2 defeat of Stone last week. Droitwich took the game to

  • Hungary for sabre success

    ALCESTER'S Brenda brothers and AGS school mate James Broad are heading for Hungary on Friday as part of a sabre fencing cadet squad. They have been selected to compete in the Koracell Kupa in Godollo, near Budapest, over the weekend. The boys will compete

  • Arrows flag up open morning

    REDDITCH Arrows are holding an American Flag Football open morning at their Ash Lane home on Sunday. Youngsters aged 10 to 16 can come along and try the non-contact version of the sport from 11am. The youngsters will be coached by Roger Smithies, an NFL

  • 16/10/02 - 'Our toughest test yet' - Jon Ford

    BROMSGROVE Rovers joint manager Jon Ford is preparing his side for what he sees as their toughest challenge to date this Saturday. Ford and Gary Hackett's team travel to Solihull Borough, who currently sit sixth in the Dr Martens Western, as Rovers attempt

  • Redditch pair lead glory trail

    REDDITCH Golf Club has been celebrating a string of high-profile successes. Members Jayne Freeman and Diane Brian led the way by retaining the International Pairs Ladies title. The Redditch GC duo took the prize at Mount Wolseley, Ireland, at the weekend

  • On our birthay - how it all started

    Reprinted from the first edition of the Worcester Evening News and Times published 65 years ago. One Newspaper for City and County This afternoon Lord Cobham, Lord Lieutenant of the City and County, initiated a new era in Worcester journalism when, by

  • SPORT

    Angling Broad Acres Match Group: Malcolm Hayes (01527 836461) Website: www.broadacresmatchfishing.org.uk Catfish Conservation Group: Ron Griffiths (Northern Region), 22 Cooper Close, The Heathlands, Bromsgrove (01527 835534). County Youth Sailing Centre

  • We're happy say patients

    ONLY seven per cent of physiotherapy outpatients at the Alexandra Hospital were kept waiting more than 10 minutes after their appointment time, a survey has revealed. And 92 per cent of outpatients visiting the department reported an improvement in their

  • Leaflet to list health points

    A LIST of the top 10 plans for health services in Redditch will be included in a leaflet to be delivered to every household. The Guide to Local Health Services has been designed by Redditch and Bromsgrove Primary Care Trust and will be delivered this

  • Thieves target BMW

    A BLACK BMW was stolen off a drive in Wythall after thieves broke into the house to steal the car keys. Police are hunting two white men after the theft, at about 2.35am last Wednesday in Hawthorne Drive. The men, aged between 18-25, broke in through

  • 100 years ago

    October 18, 1902 Alvechurch - Mr F J Batchelor has handed over to the rector (Venerable Archdeacon Walters) Mr D McMichael, a cheque for £8 30s 6d wherewith to purchase coals for the poor during the winter. It will be remembered the gentleman offered

  • 50 years ago

    October 17, 1952 THE official opening of the new Bridley Moor County Secondary School may not now take place until next spring, Redditch District Education Committee was told at its meeting last Friday. The clerk, Mr W A Sharpe, reported that the delay

  • Regents reigning

    AN 85-68 win over last season's Division One runners-up Smithswood Sabres saw Redditch Regents record their best start to a season for three years. Dave Bradshaw's side made it four wins out of four, including a 96-73 win over Bromsgrove in the first

  • Delay likely on carcass decision

    THE decision on whether to grant a licence to operate an animal carcass incinerator in Astwood Bank could go to the Secretary of State. Redditch Council environmental health officers have until November 1 to make a decision but could now ask for extra

  • Parish to call time on drink

    PLANS are afoot to try to ban drinking in certain parts of Studley. The parish council has applied to Stratford Council to introduce the measures under the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001. Parish councillors were due to discuss the proposals at a

  • 15/10/02 Unbeaten run ends at nine on an off day

    HARRIERS 0 MACCLESFIELD 2 BOSS Ian Britton was not the only one to have a bad feeling about Saturday's game with old Conference rivals Macclesfield. Unbeaten in nine Division Three matches and all season at Aggborough, Harriers were there to be shot at

  • Facing up to fright night!

    THERE will be spooky goings-on at the Palace Theatre when a Halloween mask, make-up and face painting workshop takes place this week. Rainbow Faces of Redditch has teamed up with the Palace Youth Theatre to stage the workshop so youngsters aged nine to

  • Millers add new keeper

    FORMER Moor Green and Bromsgrove keeper Nigel Watson is in line for his Feckenham debut on Saturday with first choice Dave Inman on holiday. Watson retired from the game but has helped out West Midlands Premier Division strugglers Dudley Town this season

  • No Passion

    A forthcoming Palace Theatre production has been cancelled. Dance Passion was due to take place on Saturday but organisers have terminated the tour for financial and commercial reasons.

  • Battle cry over eyes

    SUPPORT for calls to upgrade eye services at the Alexandra Hospital may come from Redditch Council. Councillor Karen Lumley will request at a full council meeting that grave concern be expressed about the future of the ophthalmology department. The move

  • NB: Alvechurch doing rather well

    ALVECHURCH manager Andy Hibbert has praised managerial partner Neil Bryan for his good work in the club's goal-laden start to the season. Bryan, often overlooked as joint manager, has shouldered the burden in recent weeks with Hibbert snowed under by

  • On the Pitch

    PITCHEROAK Special School is sending pupils to a county coaching centre for footballers with disabilities. The Redditch school is supporting the scheme, brought about by a partnership between the Worcestershire FA; University College, Worcester and Kidderminster

  • Barrier to block racers

    BARRIERS are likely to be erected at the entrance of the Townsend Way industrial park, in Malvern Link. These will be used when the shops are shut to stop "boy racers" tearing round the car park. Mark Grant, of Insignia Richard Ellis, which represent

  • All welcome

    An afternoon of music and entertainment will take place at Redditch Town Hall on Tuesday from 2pm. Everyone is invited to the event, which has been organised by Redditch Sunset Pensioners Club. Refreshments are £1.

  • 16/10/02 Town test too much for Swifts

    ANOTHER trophy eluded Stourport Swifts as they were dumped out of the Worcestershire Senior Cup 3-0 at the first-round stage on Tuesday by Halesowen Town. New boss Dave Titterton's first home match was always going to be testing against Dr Martens Premier

  • Wolves too hot for the Romans

    WORCESTER Wolves made it three wins out of four in the National Basketball Trophy with an 83-72 victory over Team Bath Romans at University College Worcester last night. Victory in the return game at Bath on Sunday will push them closer to a quarter-final

  • Reception honour for rowing stars

    THE Mayor of Worcester Councillor Robert Rowden hosted a reception in the for triumphant members of Worcester Rowing Club. They included rowers from the men's senior A crew who were successful at the Dartmouth Royal Regatta. They also won the Wyfold Challenge

  • Wright in a thriller

    It was success all the way for the Evesham-based Old Wrecks indoor rowing squad when the Nottinghamshire Indoor Rowing Championships were held at Newark Rowing Club. All five who took part won their respective categories. Tim Wright won the men's 30-39

  • 16/10/02 - Wolves too hot for the Romans

    WORCESTER Wolves made it three wins out of four in the National Basketball Trophy with an 83-72 victory over Team Bath Romans at University College Worcester last night. Victory in the return game at Bath on Sunday will push them closer to a quarter-final

  • Spa off the mark at last

    DROITWICH Spa RFC First XV finally got their league campaign off the ground with a hard fought 29-23 victory at Edwardians. Spa's first Midlands Four West (South) success in four attempts came courtesy of a solid individual display from Matt Blackmore

  • Colts score six tries

    BROMSGROVE Colts scored six tries in beating Stourbridge 37-8. Without first choice fly half Nathan Blair, Bromsgrove scored four of their six tries down the flanks. The first try was scored by captain Lee Ward after some powerful running by backs and

  • BROCKENCOTE WI

    A salmon lunch was held in September, when more than £200 was raised for funds, replacing the money spent on tubs for Chaddesley Corbett village hall. Following the meal, members walked around Janet Miller's gardens. A meeting was then held at Broadhouse

  • Hubbleday defeats Dudley

    MARTYN Hubbleday contributed 29 of the 34 points in Bromsgrove RFC U16s' 34-10 win at Dudley with four tries and three conversions. Bromsgrove were out of the blocks from the kick off and winger Hubbleday was over in the corner inside two minutes. The

  • FRIENDS OF CLEOBURY MORTIMER LIBRARY

    The autumn sale of ex-library books will be held at the parish hall, Cleobury Mortimer, on Saturday from 10am until noon. This gives everyone the chance to browse, and to buy, books at reasonable prices. Refreshments will be available.

  • KIDDERMINSTER HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

    Tonight's talk will be Gardens without Flowers, by Natasha Coombs. The talk, at Holy Innocents Community Hall, will start at 7.30pm. There is a nominal entrance fee, which includes refreshments.

  • KIDDERMINSTER OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT GROUP

    John and Dorothy Todd will give a talk on Friday, October 25 in the Post Graduate Centre, Kidderminster Hospital. The talk, about the Acorn Trust, and the new centre that is being built in Worcester, will begin at 7.30pm. New members are always welcome

  • KIDDERMINSTER AND FRANCHE FLORAL ART CLUB

    A Victorian evening was held on October 2, when members Beryl Village, Joan Peck and Joy Peers passed on their knowledge of the Victorian era. Mrs Village gave a demonstration of cooking, Mrs Beeton-style, including mincemeat, apricot relish, cheese pastry

  • KIDDERMINSTER CYCLING CLUB

    Two rides have been organised for Sunday. The A ride, which starts at 9am, will visit Newent in Gloucestershire. The B ride will start at 9.30am and riders will explore the Piddle Brook near Pershore. Both rides leave from The Green, Blakebrook, opposite

  • FRANCHE LADIES

    The next meeting will be on Wednesday, November 13, when Victoria Wakeman, a sports injury specialist, will be the guest speaker. The meeting, in Franche village hall, will begin at 8pm. For further information telephone Chris Matthews on 01562 66512.

  • HABBERLEY WI

    At the October meeting, a minute's silence was observed in memory of Hazel Grant. Also in her memory, members filled a food box for European Aid, organised by St George's Church. Sue Stone reminded of coming outings, to Bodenham, and to Webb's Nursery

  • Singers to raise roof to boost organ target

    THE sound of the Bel Canto Singers will be ringing out from St George's Church on Saturday. The concert, which begins at 7.30pm, is taking place to raise money to restore the organ at the St George's Road church. The organ came to St George's in 1963

  • Jumble rumble

    St Augustine's High School PTFA is inviting people to have a rumble in the jumble to try to bag a bargain on Friday. A jumble sale will be held at St Bede's Middle School from 6.30pm and refreshments will be available.

  • STOURPORT FLORAL ART CLUB

    Sue Davies was the demonstrator on September 30. She provided members with a display of flower arranging and made her audience laugh. One member said she had not laughed so much since seeing Billy Connolly. Elaine Freeman is the demonstrator on Monday

  • Let Go Avril Lavigne

    Three star THIS Canadian songstress could easily be Alanis Morrisette's equally as angst-ridden little sister. It's hard to believe someone who sings with this much attitude is only 17 but it seems she's part of an increasing new breed of musical youngsters

  • Charlotte Gray (15)

    Two star CHURCHILL told his spies to 'set Europe ablaze'. Unfortunately, this wartime drama fails to set the screen on fire. Based on Sebastian Faulks' bestseller, it is the story of a young Scottish woman working with the Resistance in Nazi-occupied

  • RAMBLERS ASSOCIATION

    The Wyre Forest family group has organised a 2.5mile walk at Bunker's Hill Wood on Sunday. The walk is not suitable for pushchairs. Anyone interested in taking part should meet at 2pm at Sugar Loaf Lane, at Five Ways junction on the A451, near the Wagon

  • WORCESTERSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

    The Wyre Forest group's autumn bazaar will be held in the Corn Exchange, Kidderminster Town Hall, on Saturday. Doors open at 10.15am. Good quality bric-a-brac is urgently required. Telephone 01562 824940 for details.

  • 'Our toughest test yet' - Jon Ford

    BROMSGROVE Rovers joint manager Jon Ford is preparing his side for what he sees as their toughest challenge to date this Saturday. Ford and Gary Hackett's team travel to Solihull Borough, who currently sit sixth in the Dr Martens Western, as Rovers attempt

  • Spartak remain top as Kreamer returns

    BARNT Green Spartak continue to lead Midland Combination division two following their 3-1 victory at Chelmsley Town. Spartak were never in danger of dropping points after being gifted a goal on eight minutes when home goalkeeper Lee Cozens let a back

  • Five Spa victory

    AN ANDY Keenahan hat-trick helped Droitwich Spa to a 5-2 victory at West Hagley in Midland Combination division two. Keenahan scored two in the second half to add to strikes from Andrew Butler and Leary Johnson for the points. Manager Kevin Blaber siad

  • Villa get a draw

    FAIRFIELD Villa returned to league action with a goalless home stalemate with Loughborough. Villa, who have played four cup matches in the last month, provided little by way of attack in the first half with the visitors looking more likely to score. Villa

  • 15/10/02 - Scaplehorns and CEDS dead level

    The first two drawn games of the season have occurred in the Worcester & District Skittle League. In Division Two Scaplehorns finished level with CEDS, while Mad Bulls and Droitwich RBL did likewise in Division Three. Division One Arbos 419 (J Rumney

  • 14/10/02 - Cardents see off Glovers

    CARDENTS were the top scorers in Monday Division One of the E & E Engineering Worcester Friendly Skittle League, flooring 458 pins in their victory over Glovers Needle. Division One Travellers 403 (5) G.Muspratt 39, Wild Bunch 414 (15) A.Webb 42,

  • 10/10/02 - Flintstones edge home

    Division One of the Worcester and District Ladies Skittle League saw a closely fought match between the Harlequins and the Flintstones. The Harlequins took the first two legs with the third leg drawn. They lost the fourth leg, scoring 59 pins to the Flintstones

  • Writer to join fight

    THE Swan Theatre's playwright-in-residence has branded Worcester City Council's plans to cut the venue's grant "short-sighted". Lance Woodman delivered his new play, which is part of his residency, last Tuesday - the day after the theatre announced that

  • MP slams 'financial mess by 'incompetent amateurs'

    "INCOMPETENT amateurs" at the city council have caused the financial problems that could mean curtains for Worcester's Swan Theatre, according to a Worcester MP. Following a crisis meeting to save the Swan, Mike Foster urged the city council to listen

  • Councillors' upset at lack of early warning

    PLACARDS urging councillors to save Worcester's Swan Theatre spoke volumes at a meeting last night. "Save our Swan" and "Keep me Afloat" were just some of the slogans that ensured Worcester people had their say. Supporters gathered at the community services

  • Meeting to save Swan from closing

    CAMPAIGNERS were meeting to discuss how to save the cash-strapped Swan Theatre from closure. Volunteers, theatre-lovers and members of the many amateur groups have been invited to find out how they help to keep it open. Last week, it was revealed that

  • President hits out at theatre professionals

    THE president of Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society claims the "extravagances" of the professionals brought in to run the theatre are to blame for the current financial crisis. Christine Wargent, who worked at the theatre at one time, said the amateurs

  • Amateurs vow to keep theatre open

    LOCAL amateur drama groups who stage productions at the Swan have vowed that they will fight to save it from closing. Dave Skelton, business manager for Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Youth Society, said it was disastrous news. "The arts across the board

  • 'Swan must face financial reality'

    THE leader of Worcester City Council has told the Swan Theatre that it must face financial reality. Councillor Stephen Inman, who has spoken to the theatre, said the council was willing to continue its basic annual grant of £54,000, but said the Guildhall

  • Swan theatre closure fears

    A CASH crisis hanging over Worcester's Swan Theatre looks likely to bring down the final curtain on the 40-year-old auditorium. A budget cut of £83,000, proposed by the city council, may have sounded the death knell for the theatre. If closure goes ahead

  • Kingfishers on the slide

    REDDITCH'S dire start to the season continued with a 10-8 defeat to lowly Stourport at the weekend. The latest reverse means the Bromsgrove Road side have lost three of their four league matches to the sides immediately above them in the table - Stourport

  • Rush for new blood

    THE Woodrush side to face Powergen North Midlands Two league leaders Old Griffs on Saturday could have a strong Springbok flavour. The Old Icknield Street side entertain Griffs in a friendly and skipper Paul Moore is set to introduce five new South African

  • 'Tracking down' those electricity showrooms

    DEAR EDITOR - Memory Lane a couple of weeks ago, published a photograph of an electricity showroom with a tramline leading to the rear of the premises. May I be permitted to identify the photograph as being the future MEB showroom in the High Street,

  • Cup tonic for Alcester

    ALCESTER are hoping to put their first defeat of the season behind them with a trip to Tenbury in the Powergen Junior Vase on Saturday. And after negotiating the first round of the competition for the first time in six years they are taking a coach load

  • Such a selfish view

    DEAR EDITOR - I was horrified to read the report re: the objections for enhancement to the football pitches off New Inns Lane, Rubery. Have the residents in Clent Road and the Lickey Park residents forgotten they were young once. Their selfish attitude

  • Difficult contact

    DEAR EDITOR - The report on the aftermath of the earthquake that hit the region quoted Cllr Bill Newnes (Lab - Catshill), who had complained that his attempts to call the emergency services on 999 were unsuccessful due to the number of calls being made

  • How to make sector policing work

    DEAR EDITOR - Sector policing, that wonder brain child of some unknown Home Office boffin, will never work in this town or any other unless one of two things happen. 1. Instantly transform the entire population back to the 1950's, where judges and magistrates

  • Council tax figures are revealed

    DEAR EDITOR - The Executive Cabinet of Bromsgrove District Council has recently considered the Medium Term Financial Forecast and your readers may be interested to know that the anticipated council tax increases for the next two years have been revealed

  • Far too cynical . .

    DEAR EDITOR - What a cynical and ill informed letter from Mr Padmore about the opinion survey the Bromsgrove Conservative Party is carrying out. Julie Kirkbride was indeed re-elected last year, with a substantial increase in majority and one of the highest

  • Popular for tots

    A NEW show at a Droitwich Spa theatre is set to impress town tots. The Norbury Theatre is starting its autumn season of children's theatre with a production of The Guys in the Garden. Theatre spokesperson Margaret Withers said: "These little plays of

  • They'll toe the line for children

    TWINKLE-toed dancers will be putting their best feet forward in a fundraising show in Bromsgrove next month. The Spirals Dance Academy will be continuing their tradition of holding an annual charity performance in aid of a worthwhile cause. This will

  • Cult film for village

    FILM-buffs will be doing the Time Warp in the aisles of a village cinema, when it screens a cult classic later this month. The FeckenOdeon, near Redditch will be screening Little Shop of Horrors- the hilarious musical about a man-eating plant on Saturday

  • Wycliffe's bones were thrown into the Swift

    THE Rev D G Griffin (You Say, October 10) is wrong about the Lollards. It is documented in Chambers Dictionary that they were followers of John Wycliffe. Their constant "lollying", muttering and bawling gave them their name. With regard to The Phillpott

  • Conservative Ladies Luncheon Club

    CHEERFUL chairman Betty Long greeted members and guests to the September luncheon meeting and hoped that everyone had enjoyed their summer holiday - she confessed that she would not be at the October meeting since she would be sunning herself on Lake

  • No man is an island

    DIETER Shroeder's comments regarding the inconsistent state of Worcester's many roundabouts are both timely and thought-provoking. However, he may not be aware that owing to the constraints on local government expenditure in this country that such maintenance

  • Truth is hidden for one reason

    WHY is it left to people like Val Cowell (You Say, October 3) to tell us something of regionalisation? Why doesn't government give us information? It was the Conservatives who signed the Maastricht Treaty but what did they tell us about it? Virtually

  • North Worcs Inner Wheel

    Members of North Worcestershire Inner Wheel held an English tea at the home of Fran Rogers in Finstall on Friday, September 20, to raise funds for Diabetes UK. The weather was kind and 70 people were able to enjoy an old fashioned tea with clotted cream

  • Spadesbourne Ladies Club

    Vice chairman Brenda Graham welcomed nearly 60 members to the October meeting, particularly welcoming the return of Mabel Rainscourt after her long absence due to two knee replacements and then being very unfortunate in having a heart attack. However,

  • 100 years ago October 18, 1902

    RESIDENTS in Finstall, Bromsgrove, asked the Post Office to consider making deliveries to the village on Sundays, a service already enjoyed by their neighbours in Aston Fields. The application was being made through Stoke Prior Parish Council which appeared

  • Bus passes puzzler

    A CHARITY for the elderly has been inundated with calls from perplexed pensioners, baffled by Bromsgrove's new bus pass scheme. And a council chief this week admitted the long-awaited revised system is "confusing," prompting the setting up of special

  • Former student missing in Bali bomb outrage

    A FORMER Bromsgrove School student is missing following the bomb blasts in Bali. Tom Holmes, aged 39, was taking part in a rugby tour on the Indonesian holiday island when two car bombs exploded outside a popular night club on Sunday. To date 33 Britons

  • Worcester Wolves fixtures & results - 2002/2003 season

    SEPTEMBER 28 H Oxford NT 100-96 OCTOBER 05 A Oxford NT 84-108 12 H Plymouth NT 89-88 15 H Bath NT 83-72 20 A Bath NT 27 A Plymouth NT NOVEMBER 02 A Westminster NL 09 H Derbyshire NL 17 A Black Country NL 23 H North-West London NL 30 H Bath NL DECEMBER

  • New cemetery is nearly ready

    FUNERAL processions will be re-routed to Catshill when the town's new cemetery opens in December. The Bishop of Dudley has been invited by Bromsgrove District Council to consecrate the site off Barley Mow Lane, on Friday, December 6. Burials can then

  • No worries over school places

    PARENTS in Bromsgrove are being told by education chiefs not to worry about getting a school place for their children in the town. The town's schools are almost full and some headteachers have warned that they can't find places for certain age groups.

  • New minister gets a warm welcome

    SPA parishioners have been giving a warm welcome to their new minister. Rev Richard Barley is settling in nicely to his new post at Droitwich Spa Methodist Church, in Worcester Road. The 48-year-old took over the position last month from Peter Hatton,

  • Magic day at WANDS

    TOWNSFOLK are being invited to a fun day which is being held to highlight the work of a new community centre. The event, at Westlands First School, tomorrow ( Thursday), will focus on the WANDS centre, which is set to be built on the Farmers Way site

  • 58th in Paris

    DROITWICH Spa golfer John Bickerton finished in joint 58th place in the Lancome Trophy at St Nom La Breteche in Paris last Sunday. Bickerton, still looking for his first tour vicrory, finished on 287 after rounds of 70, 71, 75 and 71. Next up for John

  • County season ends

    BROMSGROVE Swimming Club brought the curtain down on the Worcestershire county season with excellent performances in the relays. Every Bromsgrove team who entered last week's final event reached the final stages, resulting in silver and bronze medals.

  • Hospital scheme delayed

    BUILDING work on Alcester's revamped hospital has been delayed until early next year. The Chronicle reported in July how the South Warwickshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) planned to start the facelift of the Kinwarton Road hospital in the autumn. But because

  • Hunt on for car solution

    A MEETING has taken place to discuss 'ways and means of improving' Alcester's car parking situation. Mayor Ron Leek suggested possible sites in the town which could be made available for long-stay parking at the meeting with Stratford Council and Somerfield

  • 15/10/02 - Rain stops Reds play

    Sutton Coldfield Town 1 Redditch United 0 (match abandoned after 73 min) A GOAL down with 17 minutes to go Redditch lived to fight another day after the official finally called a halt to a farcical match on a filthy night at Coles Lane. With buckets of

  • 12/10/02 - Reds cup run ends

    Redditch United 0 Arnold Town 1 DESPITE dominating for long spells Redditch failed to carve out their chances and it was no surprise when they were punished with yet another late goal. Arnold were there for the taking but the good work of wingers Matty

  • 01/10/02 - Booth belter

    Leek Town 1 Redditch United 2 AT long last Reds manager Rod Brown's mystifying faith in Lee Booth was rewarded when the misfiring striker scored a priceless winner to establish himself in Redditch folklore. Booth enjoyed the support of United's small

  • 24/09/02 - Gifted goals help Gresley

    REDDITCH obviously had their minds on other things during a limp defeat to a side who were spanked 7-0 at the weekend. The hosts did little to threaten with Naveed Arshad anonymous up front and wingers Matty Hall and Alex Cowley putting in subdued performances

  • 11/09/02 - Reds suffer late agony

    Redditch United 3 Mangotsfield United 3 UNITED fans trooped home in stunned silence after watching their side contrive to throw away a seemingly unassailable three goal lead. When Matty Hall rolled home United's third off his shin in the 61st minute,

  • 02/09/02 - Grosvenor dispatched

    REDDITCH'S road to Cardiff got off without a hitch in the against Midland Alliance newcomers Grosvenor Park, writes Matt Smith. But United had to scrap for their place in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup with victory only coming after a calamity

  • More misery on the buses

    HUNDREDS of disgruntled bus users in Redditch face greater upset after it was revealed yet more services are to be axed. From November 25, there will be a reduced service on the 61a, 178 and 179, which Pete's Travel took over from the town's main bus

  • 25/07/02 - Reds bounce back

    Redditch United 3-1 Stourbridge Redditch skipper Lee Knight capped an impressive display with a goal in each half as Reds took the honours against their Midland Football Alliance opponents. Matt Hall was first to net for the home side, pouncing on a poor

  • Boss on the move

    THE man who has borne the brunt of complaints about the bus service in Redditch will be leaving his post. First's commercial manager Austin Birks has been promoted within the company to human resources and strategy manager. His role, which will cover

  • Market on way

    SHOPPERS are encouraged to vote with their baskets for local food at a farmers market in Redditch on Friday, October 25. There will be a wide variety of food producers from across Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Herefordshire in the Kingfisher Centre

  • Nineties star makes music

    THE frontman of nineties chart band Dodgy is building a recording studio at a successful Redditch rehearsal facility. Redditch singer/songwriter Nigel Clarke, who wrote hits like Good Enough and Staying Out For The Summer, is developing Homegrown Studios

  • Traffic island boost

    PLANS to improve the look of islands leading into Redditch town centre are being investigated by a specially created environmental group. The sub-group of Redditch Town Centre Partnership has identified all the entrances into Redditch and will target

  • Sporting help brings school computer joy

    WHEN a Redditch school was struggling to raise funds for a new computer suite, it was help from an unlikely source that saved the day. ICT co-ordinator Joanne Wright, who teaches at St Stephen's First School in Riverside, wrote to Pedmore Sporting Club

  • Biking mum raises £7,000 for poorly tot

    A TOT with a rare form of muscular dystrophy is set to receive a new wheelchair before Christmas thanks to the fund-raising efforts of an Astwood Bank woman. Mum-of-three Linda Jones has returned home from a two-week, 3,843-mile motorbike ride around

  • Fun date for funds

    A NUMBER of events are to be held to raise funds to help alter and improve Cookhill Village Hall. There will be a fun evening of skittles on Saturday, starting at 7.30pm in the hall. Tickets cost £6 to include a ploughman's lunch and bar facilities will

  • Cookhill job

    Anyone interested in community life could fill a vital position for Cookhill Parish Council. The council's current clerk will soon be retiring so someone new needs to be found over the next few months. For more details, call parish council chairman Bob

  • Tonks GB joy

    BROMSGROVE and Redditch AC star Sharon Tonks crowned a successful racewalking season by leading the British team home at the IAAF World Cup in Turin. In her first World Class event the Redditch walker took on an international field of 106 competitors

  • Car hands

    Youngsters at Studley Junior School enjoyed a visit from Rolls-Royce managers last week. They helped with the science and technology curriculum.

  • Alcester Male Voice Choir

    A SUCCESSFUL workshop was conducted on September 11 at the Greig Centre when seven aspiring choristers were tempted along to swell the ranks and to sample the delights of male voice choral singing. That success, however, does not mean that those ranks

  • Crabbs Cross & Hunt End WI

    PRESIDENT Hilary Taylor welcomed members and visitors to the October meeting, including a past member, Mary Bele, whose daughter Frances gave a demonstration on wrapping parcels. This included gift wrapping bottles and circular tins and how to make ribbon

  • Everywoman's Circle

    CHAIRWOMAN Jenny Johnson welcomed members to the first meeting of the autumn programme. It was unfortunate that the planned speaker was unable to attend. However, member Angela Stearn came to the rescue with a most interesting and fascinating talk with

  • Hollywood WI

    THE ladies were given a Boots No7 make-up demonstration by Cheryl and Sarah at their October meeting. Two of the members were used to demonstrate all the different techniques of applying make-up correctly and there was a bag of free samples to take home

  • Redditch Music Society

    THE Society's 41st season opened with a wonderful recital by pianist Yuri Paterson-Olenich, making a return visit to Redditch. A Mozart Sonata was followed by three Spanish Dances by Granados, a composer whose works Yuri much enjoys playing. This was

  • Studley Daytime WI

    THE AGM was held at Studley Parish Centre on Wednesday, October 2. After the business the record of the AGM 2001 was read and approved. Reports followed from the president, treasurer and committee members. Members of the new committee had all accepted

  • The Redditch Society

    THE latest speaker was Professor Roy Peacock, an eminent scientist and author. He holds a Chair in Aerospace Sciences at the University of Pisa. His subject was 'Entrances and Exits' and he began by saying we are all interested in where we came from and

  • Wythall History Society

    The opening meeting of Wythall History Society's new season started with something we haven't seen much of this summer - water! Kenn Godfrey gave a very interesting talk, 'Water to Birmingham', with slides of the original sketches made by George Yourdi

  • Peace be with you!

    INKBERROW has been chosen as a flagship village to trial a pioneering 'quiet lane' scheme aimed at deterring cars and encouraging walkers, horse riders and cyclists. The project, which is set to be extended to other areas throughout the county, is being

  • You are not alone on ads

    NO, EP Cooper, you do not stand alone in your anger over the "ad campaign" by a three-piece suite firm in Enfield (Letters, October 9). For more than three years now, they must have been blatantly flouting the law: The Town and Country Planning (Advertising

  • Computer virus on the rampage

    MIKE Foster's office thought the Tories had resorted to desperate measures ahead of their party conference in Bournemouth. The alarm bells started ringing when Mike's Westminster assistant, Margaret, was contacted by House of Commons officials. They warned

  • Phone box is root of trouble

    I LIVE in a bungalow near the shop in Sycamore Avenue mentioned in your report of October 9. My neighbours and I totally disagree about the shop causing the trouble. It is the telephone box and steps leading to bungalows that is the problem. The phone

  • Do the decent thing and sort out buses

    HAVING waited in a wind tunnel, cold on a warm day with no view except for buses going to other destinations and blank walls, I began to think Lord Archer had a warmer environment and a better view. No inspector was in sight for an explanation and the

  • Do the decent thing and sort out buses

    MANY people are devastated by the cancellation of the 53 and 54 buses. In order to travel to the town centre it is necessary to walk either to Middlepiece Drive or to Headless Cross Centre, a long walk for the elderly or disabled, and virtually impossible

  • Proud of its ability to adapt to change

    AS the Evening News celebrates its birthday this week, we take the opportunity on today's business page to revisit the oldest company in Worcester. Royal Worcester Porcelain last year celebrated 250 years in business and is the oldest continuous producer

  • Exhibition remembers Lord Nelson

    THE Museum of Worcester Porcelain is celebrating the 200th anniversary of Lord Nelson's visit to Worcester with an outstanding loan exhibition of his personal possessions and other artefacts commemorating his life. Many of the items have never been on

  • Letter from Westminster

    LAST week started with one of my regular surgeries, listening to the experiences and concerns of people followed by meetings or events with business leaders, care home professionals and county council adoption services. One of the highlights of my week

  • Master choice

    One of the latest stores to sign up for Redditch's Kingfisher Centre will be music to the ears of residents. The Town Centre Partnership recently announced music retailer HMV will be coming to town. A date for the shop's opening has not yet been confirmed

  • Talk of the force

    TWO Redditch police officers are learning to speak Urdu in an attempt improve communication links with the Pakistani community. Town centre beat manager Pc Doug Turland and Pc Mark Greaves are taking a 30-week Urdu course at NEW College.

  • Water vole is under threat

    ONE of Worcestershire's most vulnerable animals is becoming even more threatened because of a large number of cases of mistaken identity. The water vole is being mistaken for the brown rat by people including pest controllers, builders and developers,

  • Charity at checkout

    SHOPPERS can now support charity while buying groceries, thanks to a new link between the Co-op and Oxfam. Customers at nearly 1,300 Co-op food stores can give money to Oxfam as they pay for their shopping, using bar-coded Easy Giving Vouchers, worth

  • Register to vote or risk loan refusal

    WYCHAVON residents have been warned they could struggle to obtain credit if they fail to return electors' forms. At least 8,000 residents have still not returned their annual Register of Electors form to Wychavon District Council. As well as allowing

  • Drive to recruit more to the force

    AN open day to encourage more people to join West Mercia police has been declared a success by a chief superintendent. As part of a campaign to recruit 300 new officers by April next year, displays on all aspects of policing, from traffic to forensics

  • Atherstone United 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 3

    Tuesday, October 15, 2002 BROMSGROVE Rovers beat Atherstone United for the second time in four days to book a home Birmingham Senior Cup Second Round date with Moor Green. Rovers' 3-1 victory came courtesy of goals from Les Palmer, James Dyson and Steve

  • CCTV on the move

    A £60,000 mobile CCTV unit is to be used in Redditch for the first time on Friday night, police have revealed. The van, which can be used around the clock, has been kitted out with state-of-the-art equipment to help police catch criminals on camera. It

  • Car stolen

    A Black VW Golf was taken from the drive of a house in Studley last Wednesday night. Thieves broke into a house in Saint Martins Avenue and stole car keys between 6-8pm before taking the car with the registration L8 DOC. Anyone with any information should

  • Drink taken in pub raid

    A cigarette machine and spirits were stolen from a Redditch pub between 11.30pm last Wednesday and 9.30am on Thursday. The theft happened at the Black Horse pub in Mount Pleasant and police are appealing for witnesses to call them on 584888.

  • 16/10/02 - Olden in but no Danny

    GOALKEEPER Darren Olden will be joining Bromsgrove Rovers tomorrow Thursday) as cover for Matt Lowe and Steve Thomas. Olden is currently playing for Oldbury United and will remain with them until needed by Rovers. But Rovers have missed out on the signing

  • Two wins from two

    BROMSGROVE Hockey Club Men's First XI followed up their opening day victory with a 3-0 victory at Stafford in DTZ West Midlands division one. The visitors dominated the game with goals from Mark Robinson, Ashley Clarke, and Bevan Edwards. Bromsgrove quickly

  • Ladies stay undefeated

    BROMSGROVE Hockey Club Ladies First XI maintained their undefeated record after an outstanding performance against Harborne earned them a 1-1 draw. Bromsgrove had their work cut out in defence from the off as the visitors put them under pressure. The

  • County crown

    BROMSGROVE School's First XI girl's hockey team has been crowned Worcestershire county champions. The team, from the Worcester Road school, won the County Championships last week, beating The Chase, from Malvern, 2-1. Goals came from Julia Gentz and Hannah

  • Boxes to lift lid on Alex service

    PATIENTS at the Alexandra Hospital are being encouraged to have their say about the services provided for them. Two suggestion boxes have been installed in the reception area and A&E department of the Woodrow Drive hospital as part of a Patients Suggestion

  • 25 years ago

    October 14, 1977 THE Redditch branch of the Parachute Regiment Association has appealed to the Feckenham resident who 30 years ago bought a Nazi flag - brought back as a souvenir from Arnhem. The flag was sold at auction soon after the war and local ex-paratroopers

  • Wythall win the league - again

    Wythall ladies won their second successive league title, winning Division Five of the Warwickshire Summer League. Captained by Julie Gifford, the ladies remained unbeaten throughout the summer winning five and drawing two. The team pipped Moseley by a

  • Test date

    THE Arrow Mill Hotel car park, near Alcester is the venue for the 46th Annual Ken Wharton Memorial Autotests. Hagley and District Light Car Club organise the event to commemorate the club member and F1 driver. The Northern Ireland team are going for their

  • 16/10/02 - Emotional roller-coaster for fans

    IF a week is a long time in football then God help anyone following City over the last seven days -- it must feel like an eternity. John Barton's side have dished out the thrill of a superb comeback against Havant, plunged to the depths of despair following

  • Facts, figures and fixtures 2002/2003 season

    Pre-season 20/07/02 - Redditch United 0 Peterborough United 3 (Forsythe, Fenn, Bullard) 25/07/02 - Redditch United 3 (Hall, Knight, 2) Stourbridge 1 (Lee) 30/07/02 - Redditch United 1 (MacVarish) Burton Albion 1 (Garner) League 17/08/02 - Redditch United

  • Seven take share of cash giveaway

    REDDITCH One World Link is one of seven town organisations to share in the latest Awards for All cash. ROWL will get £3,800 to stage A Celebration of Different Cultures, featuring artists and musicians from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. Bromsgrove

  • Church joy

    ALVECHURCH had a boost to their title hopes without playing last night. Much-fancied Rugby, who Church host in the FA Vase on Saturday, went down 3-1 at Bolehall Swifts to sit three points ahead of Alvechurch having played one game more. And fifth placed

  • Double jeopardy

    BIRMINGHAM City Ladies have slipped into the bottom two of the FA Women's Premier League National Division. After falling behind because of international commitments, Blues were ordered to play their Premier League Cup first round tie at Southern Division

  • Gr-eight haul for Ellicott

    HEADLESS Cross Ladies are gunning for league leaders Fairfield Villa at the weekend and are hoping striker Mandy Ellicott can reproduce the form which saw her score an incredible eight against Knowle at the weekend. Rob Auld's side quickly warmed to their

  • Redditch sinking after Southam

    Redditch United Women's plight deepened at the weekend with a 6-0 defeat to lowly Southam. Outfield player Rachel Hopkins was forced to play in goal with the first choice on the club's lengthy injury list and regular stand-in Sam Tayler unavailable along

  • Craig crocked

    STUDLEY striker Craig Pountney has been ruled out until Christmas after suffering a broken kneecap. The freescoring forward, holder of the Midland Alliance golden boot and current top scorer with ten goals, suffered the injury after an awkward fall in

  • Fun ahoy!

    Youngsters can make a splash during half term with a range of activities at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre organised by Youth Afloat. Activities on offer include dinghy sailing, canoeing, raft building, orienteering, mountaineering and a Creatures of

  • Get on down

    A 60s and 70s disco will be held in aid of the new Tardebigge Community Hall. The event is on Saturday at Tyler's Lock, Tardebigge, from 7.30pm. About £300,000 lottery cash was awarded to build the hall but another £20,000 is needed. Tickets cost £5 on

  • Charity do

    Deputy mayor Kieth Boyd-Carpenter will be at a charity event on Saturday, October 26, from 7.30pm. The event, at South Redditch Sports and Social Club, is to raise funds for the Neil Ankcorn Cancer Trust.

  • Fair will raise animal funds

    ALL the fun of the fair will be on offer on Sunday, October 27, to raise money for Wythall Animal Sanctuary. An autumn fair will be held at Wythall Community Centre in Silver Street from 2-4pm and will feature raffles, stalls, refreshments and music from

  • Unlucky break for Bulls skipper

    HEREFORD United skipper Ian Wright last night suffered a suspected broken arm in a disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Northwich Victoria in the Nationwide Conference. The former Bristol Rovers defender could now face a lengthy lay-off after taking the full

  • Rovers at the double

    BROMSGROVE Rovers beat Atherstone United for the second time in four days last night to book a Birmingham Senior Cup Second Round date at home to Moor Green. Rovers' 3-1 victory came courtesy of goals from Les Palmer, James Dyson and Steve Pope although

  • Stourport beaten

    HALESOWEN Town beat Stourport Swifts 3-0 last night to set up a Worcestershire Senior Cup clash with Worcester City. Ex-Halesowen striker Kerry Giddings carved open the Yeltz defence in the 18th minute but neither Ed Bayliss nor Malick Sall could latch

  • Worcester sidecar aces beat world champions

    WORCESTER-based sidecar racers Phil Dongworth and John Luebke beat three world champions in the Eastern Airways Race of Champions at Mallory Park. They finished the 15-lap race nine-tenths of a second ahead of multiple world champion Steve Webster, with

  • Werner, Sadler gear up

    The Worcestershire Grasstrack club hold the Midland Centre Championships on Sunday at Offerton Farm, Hindlip, start time 1pm with practice from 11am. The club has again attained a good entry with prominent speedway riders heading the list. Worcester's

  • MP marks Adoption Week

    REDDITCH MP Jacqui Smith planted the first of 200 bulbs at Arrow Valley Park on Friday to mark the launch of the sixth National Adoption Week. Ms Smith supported Worcestershire County Council's adoption team in planting the bulbs to represent the number

  • Duo face bans for red cards

    BROMSGROVE RFC's Carl Bradley and Steve Phillips face bans after being sent off in separate incidents during last Saturday's First XV game against Whitchurch at Finstall Park. Bradley, making his debut, was dismissed following a mass brawl between the

  • Wave of magic hits Malvern

    RICHARD Briers stars in Shakespeare's The Tempest, which visits Malvern Theatres for seven performances as part of a short and select regional tour. The actor's extensive career includes television series Monarch of the Glen, The Good Life and Ever Decreasing

  • Return of Rat Pack legends

    A MUSICAL production celebrating the talents of three world famous entertainers is being staged at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre next week. Legends of the 20th century, idols of the music industry and superstars of the movies, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis

  • UPPER ARLEY WI

    The Severn Valley Railway loaned war-time memorabilia for September 30, when Upper Arley hosted a Leys Group meeting at the village hall. The main speaker for the evening was Dr Mark Baldwin, of Cleobury, who told members the story of The Enigma Machine

  • Acker and all that jazz

    MASTER jazz clarinettist Acker Bilk and The Paramount Jazz Band are set to take audiences by storm when they perform at the Palace Theatre next week. Bernard Bilk was born in Somerset, learned to play the clarinet to 'pass the time away' during National

  • Two off in defeat

    BROMGROVE RFC First XV had two men sent off en route to a 36-17 Powergen Midlands One defeat to Whitchurch at Finstall Park. Debut maker Carl Bradley saw red and Steve Phillips yellow during an ugly brawl at the end of the first half. Phillips compounded

  • ASTLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

    The final show of the season was a riot of colour, with classes for dahlias, chrysanthemums, Michaelmas daisies, nerines, roses and fuchsias, as well as vegetables. Former president Frank Young, in his 50th year as an exhibitor, presented the awards as

  • Arnold hand out cup shock

    FROM the FA Cup to the Worcestershire Senior Cup! Redditch's glorious FA Cup adventure came to an ignominious halt against lower league Arnold Town at the weekend. Wingers Matty Hall and Alex Cowley at times embarrassed the visiting full backs but, frustratingly

  • CHADDESLEY CORBETT WI

    The annual meeting was held at the village hall, when Barbara Maskell was elected as the new president. Jackie Gregory, who works closely with people in The Gambia, then gave a talk. Chaddesley members have contributed to the "Shoebox" appeal for jumpers

  • CHADDESLEY CORBETT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

    The autumn season began with a "History Walk" along five miles of footpaths and lanes in the parish, led by Mike Hanson. Historic features of note were pointed out along the route. On October 1 photographs were on view at the Elisabeth Tangye Memorial

  • CLEOBURY MORTIMER BRIDGE CLUB

    A Howell movement over 21 boards was played at the latest duplicate competition. The winners were Nick Holcombe and Sarah Green, with 68 per cent, 10 per cent ahead of nearest rivals Tim Clist and Judith Mitton. In third place were Wendy Duley and Pat

  • Reds given away days

    REDDITCH United have been handed a tough draw in the second round of the Birmingham Senior Cup. The Reds visit Nigel Clough's Conference newboys Burton Albion in a tie which has to be played on or before Saturday, November 23. United drew 1-1 with the

  • 12/09/02 - Reds tame Tigers

    REDDITCH United were hoping to continue their freescoring form at home to Mangotsfield United last night. Any early season fears about a lack of goals have been firmly banished by an avalanche of 14 in four matches. After hitting five against a stunned

  • New season for orchestra

    THE director of the Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra and Wolverhampton Music Service Concert Band will conduct Redditch Orchestra's first concert of its new season. Neil Aston also regularly conducts the Birmingham Philharmonic and Charnwood Orchestras

  • What's On Guide

    Thursday, October 17 The Diary of Anne Frank, Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Until November 9. Tickets from 0121 236 4455. Yo Yo - My Life Is Like a Yo Yo by Bryony Lavery, Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Until October 19. Tickets from 0121 236 4455. Welsh

  • FRANCHE WI

    WI adviser Marjorie Whiting conducted the voting at the annual meeting. After 13 years as present, Jill Jackson stood down. The new president is Margaret Lillis, and Eileen Jones is now the secretary. Mrs Jackson reported on the group meeting at Arley

  • WOLVERLEY FLORAL ART CLUB

    An evening of holistic therapies was held on September 30. Unfortunately some people were disappointed they were unable to have the benefit of a treatment, but anyone who would like any further information about the services on offer, is asked to contact

  • A Beautiful Mind (12)

    Two star IT may have picked up four awards from the Academy, but this film is not a winner with me. The root of the trouble lies with Russell Crowe. His portrayal of flawed maths genius John Nash is so dour and miserable that I could muster very little

  • WYRE FOREST VEGETARIAN SOCIETY

    Diana Edmonson talked about Veganism at a "taste-in". Cheap and Easy vegan recipe books, and a free information sheet called Why Go Vegan? are available from the society. Volunteers are sought to man an information stall at Bewdley farmers' market on

  • Sean-Nos Nua Sinead O'Conner

    Four star THE rise and fall of Sinead O'Conner has been spectacular. After soaring to the heights with Prince's Nothing Compares 2U, she has frittered her talents on ill-judged and self-indulgent projects. But this, what must be her best album for a decade

  • WEST MIDLANDS FEDERATION OF TGS

    An exhibition of arts and crafts, floral art and home-crafts, will be held at Stourbridge Town Hall on Saturday, November 2. Doors open at noon and entry is free.

  • From Now On Will Young

    Two star OH how I wanted to like this album and give it a great review. If for no other reason than to stick two fingers up to all those music 'experts' out there who believe that just because Will was chosen by Joe Public from a TV show (shock horror

  • The Datsuns The Datsuns

    Five star Wow! These boys have certainly done their homework and what they've handed in is a solid slab of nail hard, seriously exciting rock 'n' roll. Taking their cue from a raft of 70s riff merchants, this young four-piece from New Zealand have foregone

  • WEST MIDLAND BIRD CLUB

    The Kidderminster branch's first meeting of the season in the new venue featured a talk by Paul Allen, countryside and conservation officer of Wyre Forest District Council. He accompanied his talk with slides and spoke of work carried out on the 10 nature

  • BROOME FAYRE

    Thousands of pounds were raised in just two hours when an entire village turned out to support a charity country fayre. The residents of Broome contributed a staggering £7,667.50 at the summer event. The funds have been shared equally between St Peter's

  • Rovers too good for Adders

    BROMSGROVE Rovers beat Atherstone United for the second time in four days last night (Tuesday) to book a home Birmingham Senior Cup Second Round date with Moor Green. Rovers' 3-1 victory came courtesy of goals from Les Palmer, James Dyson and Steve Pope

  • Dyson's double makes it eight in a row

    ON paper Atherstone United looked a tough prospect. In reality, Bromsgrove Rovers were barely troubled on their way to a 3-0 victory and eighth consecutive Dr Martens Western win. Gary Hackett and Jon Ford's side had a point to prove after their woeful

  • Great run continues

    FAIRFIELD Villa Ladies consolidated their place at the top of West Midlands division one (south) with a convincing 6-1 victory over Leamington. Top goalscorer Kelly Godfrey bagged a hat-trick and Mel Bunn got two as Villa continued their impressive run

  • Spa ease past Bromyard

    DROITWICH Spa FC A made easy work of Bromyard in the Worcestershire Premier League with a 4-0 win. Simon Atkinson volleyed home on 16 minutes and man of the match Roger Denby made it two on 36 minutes. Atkinson got his second on 69 minutes by chipping

  • First win for Sports

    WOODBOURNE Sports won their first Bromsgrove Football League division one game thanks to a brace from Lee McQuinnan in a 3-2 victory over Crabmill. Wychbold RBL Reserves put eight past Forest Falcons in division two with a debut five goals for Sean Rafferty

  • Garringtons return home

    GARRINGTONS Sunday returned to their home for the first time this season. Sunday made the most of the occasion by beating South Redditch 2-0. Garringtons took the lead on 25 minutes when Mark Johnson forced the ball home. Within minutes it was 2-0 when

  • Junior football round-up

    Holy Name U7s 3 Bromsgrove Town U7s 2 Town crashed out of the Central Warwickshire League Shield second round to Holy Name's extra time golden goal. Town took the lead through Ben Markall but the hosts came back strongly to equalise. Marc Ward hit the

  • Half term soccer schools

    KIDDERMINSTER Harriers Community Scheme is visiting schools during half term. Courses will have a fantasy football, Brazilian Samba and Champions League theme and will be held at Droitwich Spa's Westacre Middle School, in Ombersley Way, on Monday and

  • Angling round-up

    THE Northfield Starlets Veterans held their regular Tuesday contest on Woodlands View's Deans pool. The hot spot area at the moment is in the 60s and John Joyce (Halesowen) made no mistake when he pulled out peg 62 from the draw bag to pole fish chopped

  • 16/10/02 - Morganite clinch victory

    MORGANITE beat Outlaws 460-435 in the E&E Engineering sponsored Worcester Friendly Skittle League Wednesday Division One. Outlaws 435(2) (C. Awford 43, G. Taylor 41), Morganite 460(18) (R. Middleton 49, D. Evans, S. Ayers 41). Freshmen 432(17) (C.

  • Vision needed to help the arts

    IF Worcester is to thrive as a city in the next few decades it needs to provide better entertainment facilities - not worse ones - for the increasing number of people who live in and around it. In 20 years time, as its population nears the 120,000 mark

  • Car park barriers raise a number of questions

    DEAR EDITOR - The recent article on the Pay-on-Foot barrier system on all Bromsgrove's car parks is the culmination of several concerning parking. The first story to mention barriers was the item concerning Asda's extension and the car park changes. My

  • No rest for Eds

    FIVE Ways Old Edwardians take a break from a dire start to the season when they play in the Second Round Midlands of the Powergen Junior Vase at the weekend. But the respite could be in name only, with the Masshouse side drawn at home against a Bromyard

  • Kings chase record

    KINGS Norton have been advised to contact the Guinness Book of Records after captain Mark Waudby's 18 second try at Droitwich. The Ash Lane club have been advised it could be a world record. Ironically, the loss of Waudby to work commitments at the weekend

  • Treats

    DEAR EDITOR - I write to say how much our friends and ourselves have appreciated Sunday afternoons, listening to the brass bands in Sanders Park, Bromsgrove. It was nice to see so many people enjoying themselves. Congratulations to Bromsgrove District

  • Local services may lose to Park and ride

    DEAR EDITOR - I note in the local Press this past week that the 'Park and Ride' scheme in Worcester is to be extended . I believe this is a good idea but not at the detriment of our local buses here in Droitwich. Last week we heard about the cancellation

  • How the system works

    DEAR EDITOR - I would like to let your readers know about a new initiative The Electoral Commission has launched to promote public understanding of how our electoral systems work. Our New Initiatives Fund, set at £250k for this year, will help local organisations

  • Right to seek views

    DEAR EDITOR - Mr Padmore (letters 02/10/02) may consider it not to be legitimate tactics for Miss Kirkbride to be asking her constituents what is important for them. The alternative view might be to consider it a particularly sensible manner to improve

  • Terrain event success

    DEAR EDITOR - On October 6, Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletics Club promoted the North Worcestershire Multi- Terrain Eight Mile Race. The event was a great success and enjoyed by over one hundred and fifty athletes. On behalf of the organisers, I would

  • Stourport Swifts FC - Fixtures and results - 2002/03

    Sat July 20 Halesowen Harriers (a) 3-1 Mulders, Stanier, Dobson Sat July 27 Boldmere St Michaels (a) 1-4 Giddings Mon July 29 Stourbridge (h) 3-2 Giddings, Stanier, Fletcher Thurs Aug 1 Rushall Olympic (h) 2-3 Bailey, A Nicholls Sat Aug 3 Telford United

  • Gold for Tommy

    CHURCH Hill's Phil Tommy captained a three man team to gold in the English Team Tae Kwon Do Championships at Coventry at the weekend. Tommy, who trains at Fitness Unlimited, Redditch, guided his team to gold in the sparring and patterns for the overall

  • Learning lessons from the past and looking to the future

    ONE hundred and fifty years ago the relatives of pupils at Inkberrow First School were starting their first day in the classroom. The school opened as Inkberrow National School with 140 five to 14-year-olds in 1851. The Rev George Gray and his parishioners

  • What's on guide

    Wednesday October 16 l Opera: Tosca, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street, Birmingham, 7.15pm. l Show: Silent Engine, Arena Theatre, Wulfrana, Wolverhampton, 7.30pm. l Folk: Mike Bisiker and Chris Green, Fiddle and Bone, Sheepcote Street, Birmingham, 8pm.

  • Chaddesley Corbett WI

    THE annual general meeting of Chaddesley Corbett WI was held on Wednesday, October 2, at the village hall. The evening commenced with business matters followed by annual reports from the treasurer, secretary and president. The evening continued with the

  • Droitwich Winemakers and Social Club

    SEPTEMBER was the month for the club's annual outing when members enjoyed a day out at Blists Hill Victorian town, which is part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum. The trip coincided with the museum's steam weekend, so many of the machine exhibits were up

  • I feel very unwelcome

    AS a Norwegian living in Worcester for a few months I have come to love this beautiful city. I am sorry to say though that at times I feel very unwelcome. There have been a number of occasions when, in my imperfect English, I have asked for directions

  • Rotary Club of Droitwich Spa

    IT was hearty handshakes all round when Spa Rotarians welcomed a high profile guest to their weekly meeting. The Rotary Club of Droitwich Spa received a visit from the organisation's deputy regional district governor, David Robinson. Mr Robinson was given

  • Barnt Green Gardens Society

    AT our October meeting, the speaker was John Robinson on the subject of the natural history of the Wyre Forest, where he was a nature warden for many years. His superb slides, together with a most informative and humorous commentary, made for a highly

  • Lickey WI

    The AGM of Lickey WI was held on October 1 at the parish hall and WI advisor Janice Jones was present to officiate. The institute currently serves 63 members. Following acceptance of the treasurer's report, secretary Janet Coe gave the annual report,

  • Don't forget the buses

    I NOTE (Evening News, October 9) that the park-and-ride scheme in Worcester is to be extended. I believe this is a good idea but not to the detriment of our local buses. Last week, we heard about the cancellation of some buses and the re-routing of others

  • We're working hard to repair the damage

    THE Rev D G Griffin is fully entitled to promote his outspoken views on both the Church of England and the Labour Party (You Say, October 5). What he may not do is dismiss as "spin" the fact that the Churchwardens and District Church Council of St John's

  • 25 years ago October 11, 1977

    AVONCROFT Museum's latest exhibit, Forge Cottage which had been rescued from Wellington in Herefordshire, was being erected at the popular tourist attraction at Stoke Heath in Bromsgrove. EYE specialists from all over the world were in Bromsgrove for

  • RNLI news

    WE are glad to report that we have a few new members, perhaps not surprising when we examine our list of engagements and speakers recently. On July 17 we had Alan Craske talking about "La Jog on a Bike" - entertaining, amusing and well received. On July

  • Why we must stand firm over Saddam

    IT is always commendable and wise to go the extra mile for peace. But we are a civilised reasonable democracy. Iraq is a tyranny ruled by blackmail and terror. It is no use pretending that Saddam Hussein is a democratic leader of a free country. He is

  • 50 years ago October 18, 1952

    THE design for a new coat of arms had been agreed by Bromsgrove Rural District Council. It consisted of a sickle to represent industry, a demi crosier because of Bishop Latimer's association with Alvechurch, a beech tree to signify Frankley Beeches and

  • Architect left mark on town

    POEMS and paintings have gone on display in a special library exhibition aimed at sparking new interest in the life and works of a local architect and Bromsgrove Messenger writer. John Cotton, who was born in 1844, designed a number of well-known buildings

  • Slim bins to reduce our waste

    A CROSS party group of 13 eco-friendly district councillors are getting together to 'Slim their Bins' in a bid to reduce the district's rubbish mountain. The enthusiastic party of waste watchers is hoping their efforts will encourage Bromsgrove residents

  • What a novel idea

    RUBERY Library was packed with proud parents who turned out to see their tots collect awards for completing a summer reading scheme. Village beat-bobbies PC Tony Platt and Sergeant Kevin Lynott were on hand to present medals and certificates to more than

  • Clean air relief for motorway

    RESIDENTS living near the busy motorway where air quality was deemed to be poor, can now breathe a sigh of relief. New research shows that potentially harmful fumes do not travel from the highway as far as previously thought. And anticipated traffic levels

  • Murder case goes to retrial

    A building worker accused of murdering his 57-year-old wife after she left him to "get a life" faces a retrial. Terence Troth claims he accidentally stabbed his wife through the heart during an early morning doorstep confrontation. His wife Maureen had

  • Tony is cooking up a real treat

    I AM a self-confessed foodie, writes Emily Bridgewater. Just browsing the aisle of a supermarket, with its glass counter full of colourful cheeses and shelves packed with pots of pesto, pasta and pastries, gets me drooling at the mouth. I love nothing

  • Riding in the park

    NEARLY 150 riders competed in Bromsgrove Olympique Cycling Club's second annual Cyclo-Cross meeting at Sanders Park last Sunday. Despite poor weather, riders were again in good form at the Kidderminster Road park to take a variety of positions across

  • Rat run sparks safety fears

    SPEEDING cars outside a village school have sparked calls for a 20mph limit. Drivers are racing around Hazel Road and Maple Road at 60mph, according to Worcestershire county councillor Peter McDonald (Lab - Rubery). And he fears motorists are putting