IN a programme of Music for Advent, Arborea Musica - Gerry McDonald (woodwind), Philippa Hyde (soprano) and Helen Rogers (harpsichord) - an attractive group, specialising in baroque music, performed on authentic reproductions of 17th Century instruments
MEDIOCRITY may have been the cross which Mozart's great rival Antonio Salieri had to bear, but it is not one with which Hereford-based theatre company Mad Dogs wrestles. Last week's production of Amadeus in All Saints Church was an undervalued joy to
The Tights, the first band to be signed to Malvern's famed Cherry Red record label, are to be reunited after nearly 30 years. The Malvern-based punk rock group were in their teens when Cherry Red promoters Iain McNay, Will Atkinson and Richard Jones decided
Dec 17: Martyn Joseph, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester; Afterview and Great Blind Degree, Marr's Bar, Worcester; Ronan Keating, NEC Arena, Birmingham; The Reflections plus DJ Dav Luce, Drummonds Bar, New Street, Worcester. Dec 18: Steve Rezillo, Barbourne
Events/talks December 16 Jon Hurley Story of Beaujolais, The Leadership Trust, Weston-Under-Penyard, 7.30pm. 01989 760713/767667. 17-20 Christmas in Fairytaleland, Part-Y-Seal, Grosmont, 01981 240814. 17 RBL Whist Drive, Cedar Hall, Dilwyn. 7.30pm. 01544
DESPITE swapping barbecues and beaches for scarves and gloves, Alan Fletcher, one of the star's of Malvern's pantomime, says he is happy to be in the town for Christmas. Alan, who plays Dr Karl Kennedy in Australia's well-loved soap Neighbours, is starring
IT was 'all right on the night' for a Malvern youth drama group that staged its first production on Saturday. The Drama Platform performed The Rainbow Show to an audience of 120 at St Andrew's Church Hall. The piece, which included songs, readings and
MALVERN'S Jane Lush Drama Group will be serving up mystery and suspense in its Christmas production tonight (Friday). Who is the strange visitor who does charitable work for no apparent reward? Who stole Ethel and Maureen's antique teapot? Who took little
Theatre December 17-The Father Christmas Burglaries at Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Link Top, Malvern performed by the Jane Lush Drama Group. 5.45pm. Admission free. Until18-A Tale from the Snowcake Man at the Theatre of Small Convenience, Edith Walk, Great
YOUNGSTERS performed music by Edward Elgar at a traditional Christmas carol concert yesterday. The Eckington First School pupils sang A Christmas Greeting and other carols to parents and friends at Eckington's Holy Trinity Church, near Pershore. Music
MUSICAL youngsters at a school in Droitwich put on 15 Christmas performances in a week. Pupils at Chawson First School performed their Christmas concerts morning, noon and night for other pupils, teachers and parents. Each year group had a different day
POLICE are appealing for information after a number of vehicles were damaged in a disturbance in a Kidderminster street. Officers were called to Park Street just before 10pm on Monday, December 13, after reports of a man in his 20s suffering puncture
A MAN died after a road traffic collision on the A442 near Upton Snodsbury, an inquest heard yesterday. Richard Price, aged 21, of Barneby Avenue, Bartestree, Hereford, died as a result of the incident at around 8pm on Tuesday, December 7. Worcestershire
THE choristers of Holy Trinity Church, in Hereford, are working hard in preparation for this weekend's Festival of Lessons and Carols by Candlelight. Over 600 candles will light the church during the show to a packed congregation. "We all rush about before
POLICE are appealing for information after a man was injured in an assault at a Kidderminster nightclub. The 23-year-old victim, from Stourport-on-Severn, was attacked by an unknown person inside Mirage nightclub, Dixon Street, between 1am and 1.30am
TICKETS are available for And a Partridge in a Pear Tree. This is a seasonal selection of songs and snippets presented by the Colwall Players to take place at Colwall Village Hall on Saturday, December 18 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 and £2.50 from John
AT last Sunday's family service at St Peter's Church, Powick, baby Katie Mary Witts of St John's and toddler Williams James Alexander Freeman of London (whose grandparents live locally) were baptised by Reverend Peter Nichol. The lesson was read by Sally
UPTON continued their good form in North Midlands Division One South with a convincing victory against visiting Birmingham Civil Service. UPTON RFC 1ST XV 31pts, BIRMINGHAM CIVIL SERVICE 3pts On a fine day, the result was never in doubt after the first
AFTER a two-week break from league rugby Upton entertained joint league leaders Cleobury Mortimer in North Midlands One South. UPTON 1ST XV 24pts, CLEOBURY MORTIMER 5pts On a cold, damp but still day Upton fielded their strongest possible side although
Broad-minded? You bet I am, mostly because I've seen it all. By day, shoplifters, burglaries, drug pushers, car crime, harassment, anti-social behaviour, road crashes, hold-ups, lost children, truants, street crime, the lot. By night, people falling-down
TEENAGERS at a Worcester school entered the festive spirit by hosting a Christmas cracker of a party for 120 pensioners. The elderly people, from sheltered housing accommodation across the city, were treated to songs, sketches and music in the King's
A COFFIN representing the death of Tenbury Wells' livestock market was carried through the town's streets yesterday to mark the final livestock sale. The mock funeral procession was in protest at auctioneers Brightwells' sale of the site to William Chase
A STUDY into how Droitwich people want their money to be spent has revealed 79 per cent want to see the lido up and running again. Town councillors say the result is proof residents want the summer attraction. But those very residents could be the ones
BEING energy efficient does not make you a Scrooge, but it could save you money and help the environment. That is the message from the Worcestershire Energy Efficiency Advice Centre, which says Dickens' Christmas Carol could be rewritten, with a timely
A SEASONAL scam tricking people into believing they have a parcel waiting to be collected has started in Worcester. Postal Force Ltd, similar in name to Parcel Force, is sending "reminder" cards to houses telling the residents they have a parcel waiting
MOTORISTS throughout Worc-estershire and Herefordshire are being warned to prepare for delays this weekend and use public transport where possible as Christmas shoppers and school holiday traffic hits the roads. The RAC believes town centres and out-of-town
THE Evening News' and Debenhams' Search For Sold competition created 44 prize winners who beat off 10,000 entries to win fabulous Christmas gifts. The prize-giving ceremony was held in Debenhams, on the High Street, on Wednesday night. It was the high
IN a programme of Music for Advent, Arborea Musica - Gerry McDonald (woodwind), Philippa Hyde (soprano) and Helen Rogers (harpsichord) - an attractive group, specialising in baroque music, performed on authentic reproductions of 17th Century instruments
A Worcester pub regular has been banned after she complained to staff that money had gone missing from a purse she had left in another part of the pub. Twenty-year-old Heather Jones had enjoyed a night out with friends at Lloyds No 1 Bar in Broad Street
CENTRAL defender Co-lin Hoyle is Worcester City's major injury worry ahead of their trip to Lancaster City in the Nationwide North tomorrow. Hoyle, who joined the club from Burton Albion in the summer, has a back injury and will undergo a late fitness
WORCESTER City boss John Barton admits it will be frustrating to watch from the Giant Axe grandstand during his side's Nationwide North clash at Lancaster tomorrow. Barton begins a four-match touchline ban following his sending-off in the 2-1 win over
ANGELS are once again set to descend on St Nicholas' Church in Earl's Croome. The Host of Angels experience, which visited the church during the summer, will return to bring a festive feel this Christmas. The exhibition, which features more than 100 painted
KIDS Kapers will be running a Christmas activities scheme at the Hill Centre, Upton, from Monday (December 20) to December 23, 9am to 5pm. It will be open to children aged four to 13 and cost £14. For details, call 0777 3478288.
CHILDREN will be treated to a Christmas storytime at Upton Library on Monday (December 20). Staff will read and run craft activities and games from 3pm to 4pm. The event is free and is suitable for children aged four to 10. Call 01684 592176 to book.
MORE than £2,630 was raised by the Hanley Castle, Hanley Swan and Welland branches of the Royal British Legion in this year's Poppy Appeal. The money was collected through whist drives, raffles, donations and church collections.
UPTON Town Council will meet at Upton Memorial Hall on Tuesday (December 21), at 7.30pm. The public are welcome to attend.
WHAT a breath of sanity Dr Jones brings to the hunting issue (Your Letters, November 26) and what a contrast to the ill-informed and sentimental claptrap that has so clouded the debate. Are your readers aware that one casualty of the hunting ban has been
SUNDAY saw more games played in the cup competitions in The Soccer Site Malvern Football League. The cup format is different this year with the early games being played on a league basis, with the top two teams from each pool going through to the Senior
FOLLOWING Mr Bonner's letter (Your Letters, November 26), I have been asked to write to you. The civic society is also concerned about the overall condition of shopfronts in the town and is planning to underwrite a facelift programme in the coming months
A TACTIC used by Malvern Hills District Council to turn down applications for third-generation (3G) mobile phone masts is in ruins following a planning appeal. Phone company Vodafone has won an appeal to allow a mast to be built near Pendock. The firm's
DOES one need the scepticism and wisdom of Socrates to realise that there may be good reason to have concern and fears regarding the action which Coca-Cola may be prepared to take in a strategy to possibly quadruple the sales of Malvern Water? As recently
POLICE plan to launch a crackdown on youths behaving aggressively in the centre of Malvern Link. PC Roger Pullen said that in the past few weeks there had been an increase of incidents of gangs of young people behaving in an intimidating way in the shopping
IN your editorial (November 26) you suggest we "need to grow up on our attitude to capitalism". As an economic system capitalism has enriched some people in the world, but has impoverished others. Some of us have a standard of living, a level of education
CHRISTMAS has come early for one reader after she was reunited with her dog following a successful appeal in the Malvern Gazette. Chiara Regan began the search to find her Jack Russell Collie cross, Lard, after he ran from her side during a firework display
WEST Malvern travelled to Worcester for this Phipps Cup tie and made their usual poor start. KOINONIA 1, WEST MALVERN 2 West found themselves a goal down inside five minutes when they committed the sin of not playing to the whistle. The defence were all
I NOTE in the Malvern Gazette (November 26) that the Malvern Hills Conservators' public relations committee is to recommend refusal of permission for Morgan car enthusiasts to erect a statue to commemorate H F S and Peter Morgan on the Link Common opposite
A High-tech firm employing 31 people in Malvern has been bought out by one of the biggest defence and aerospace companies in the world. Lockheed Martin Corporation has paid an undisclosed sum for Stasys Ltd, a technology and consulting firm with an office
I am researching a once famous taxidermy firm patronised by Edward VII (the taxidermy still adorns the walls of Sandringham). George Wells Quatremain, taxidermist and artist, moved to Malvern around 1903. His life and work has virtually been forgotten
The Christmas lights have been stolen from outside Lyttelton Well in Malvern. Manager Jean Holt, who said she was "gutted" by the theft, is appealing for them to be returned. The twinkling white lights, decorating a pedestrian area outside the cafe and
A SHEEPDOG called Rover has been stolen from a farm near Malvern. Rover was in a cage in the back of a Nissan pick-up truck taken from a farm at Berrow at about 5pm on Monday (December 13). He is a ten-year-old working collie with a curly black coat,
WE would like to thank all those people who so generously donated to Malvern Rotary Club's Tree of Light to celebrate the lives of those important to them. We are delighted that our St Richard's New Hospice Appeal has benefitted by £3,000 from this kindness
THE toposcope on the summit of Worcestershire Beacon should be restored by Christmas. The metal disc, engraved with a map of the surrounding countryside, was stolen from its stone plinth earlier this year. The missing disc is itself a replica, installed
THE major element contributing to the distinctiveness of the Great Malvern Conservation Area is its wealth of quality Victorian buildings. In the town centre we are fortunate that despite the ravages of time and the changing styles of retailing, there
Ambulance, Fire, Police: Dial 999 DISTRICT COUNCILS Wyre Forest District Council: 01562 820505 Wychavon District Council: 01386 565000 South Shropshire District Council: 01584 813000 SOCIAL SERVICES Kidderminster area office: 01562 822511 Emergency duty
THE final stages of work on Upton's new viaduct will begin early in the New Year. A form work - a temporary scaffolding structure that acts like a mould - is currently being erected and will be filled with concrete at the start of 2005. The reinforced
THE refusal by councillors on Malvern Hills District Council's northern area development control committee of plans for affordable homes at Upper House, Alfrick, confirmed my faith in their astuteness to see the long-term consequences. If the application
HAS the recent over-zealous salting of our roads been a cost-effective use of Council Tax funds or did I blink and miss more than one slight frost? DEREK WILKINSON, High Street, Ledbury.
MALVERN Town Council is to cut its precept by 10 per cent. The council, which also cut its precept last year by 7.5 per cent, is proposing to reduce this year's from £716,000 to £644,000. The result would be a cut of about £10 a month for the average
THE cost of the recent refurbishment of Malvern Splash will be reviewed by the district council next week. The implications on next year's budget as a result of the overspend on the £1.4 million scheme will be considered by the executive committee on
MALVERN Hills District Council has been rated "fair" in a report just published by the Audit Commission. It was the result of a week-long assessment in September, when inspectors looked at every part of the council. Councils can be rated either as excellent
AS a resident of Ledbury I am privileged to be able to enjoy the nearby Malvern Hills. Ledbury is actually closer than Malvern is to British Camp and Malvern residents are entitled to purchase very cheap annual parking permits for the hills. So why is
A fire at McDonald's in Malvern is being treated as suspicious. The blaze started in rubbish bins at the rear of the Roman Way building at about 1.25am on Monday. It spread to an outbuilding but firefighters prevented it from reaching the restaurant.
A REFEREE of 28 years said he is quitting junior football because of the bad behaviour of parents at matches. Malcolm Murray said the trouble he has from aggressive parents outweighs the enjoyment he gets from refereeing. Last month, he suspended a game
A PIONEERING project to transform a Malvern Link estate into a pedestrian-friendly area will be officially opened tomorrow (Saturday). The £600,000 Home Zone project on Duke of Edinburgh Way was completed this week. Residents will celebrate the end of
POLICE in Malvern are warning shoppers to be on the alert for thieves in the run-up to Christmas. Inspector Neville Shel-drick said as Christmas approaches, there can be an increase in the number of homes and cars targeted. "We know from past experience
A Darby and Joan Club that has been meeting since the 1950s has been saved from closure. The future of the Colwall-based club was in doubt when leader Isabel Knight announced she was leaving after 20 years. However, a new leader, Adele McGrath, has agreed
SOUTH Worcestershire Primary Care Trust's three-month consultation on a new hospital for Malvern, launched in this newspaper last week, does appear to be an expensive and fairly pointless exercise. Is there, for example, really any need to ask people
A TRIO of protesters wearing sheep masks targeted the offices of the Malvern Hills Conservators on Monday. The group, who described themselves as "concerned residents", held up placards and waved banners outside the Grange Road offices in protest at sheep
A little boy suffering from leukaemia will have a merry Christmas, thanks to the efforts of a Bromyard fundraiser. Four-year-old Joe Pike was diagnosed with the illness in October and has been receiving chemotherapy in Birmingham for eight weeks. When
WORCESTER City boss John Barton admits it will be frustrating to watch from the Giant Axe grandstand during his side's Nationwide North clash at Lancaster tomorrow. Barton begins a four-match touchline ban following his sending-off in the 2-1 win over
HEREFORD United manager Graham Turner revealed ahead of tomorrow's Nationwide Conference clash at home to Gravesend and Northfleet that he aims to bolster his side in three key areas. The Bulls' chief has made enquiries into bringing in fresh faces after
A dentist from eastern Europe stationed in a special caravan will be used to help ease Malvern's NHS dental crisis. The caravan surgery will be based at the dental clinic in Osborne Road, Malvern Link, and should be in use by next year. It will enable
STOURPORT Swifts manager Dave Titterton is confident his side's good run of form will continue tomorrow as they travel to Brackley Town in Southern League Division One West (3pm). The Walshes Meadow club are enjoying their longest unbeaten sequence in
THE Worcestershire Golf Club's vice-captain Barry Schofield is running into good form prior to taking up the captaincy of the club next March. Paired with partner Tim Cain, they returned a nine point better than par score of 45 points in round four of
FORMER double world champion and household name 'Rocket' Ron Haslam was the guest speaker at the Malvern Motorcycle Club in Link Way this month. Ron, from Langley Mill, Nottinghamshire, who was one of the crowd favourites during a career which covered
MALVERN cycling club VC Sevale is holding a freewheel competition on Tuesday, December 28. Meeting on the car park at British Camp at 9.45am, the event begins at 10am. This is a race for just about anyone who can sit on a bike and roll down a hill. The
DYMOCK Grange Golf Club held it's annual presentation evening. After a superb dinner, the members were welcomed by the president Gerald Howells (from Much Marcle), he thanked everyone for attending and then made a hilarious speech about various members
LEMONY SNICKET'S A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS (PG) Jim Carrey stars in this big screen adaptation of the first three of Lemony Snicket's dark world that the Beaudelaire children find themselves inhabiting. See review, right. Odeon, Worcester 12.45,
The Tights, the first band to be signed to Malvern's famed Cherry Red record label, are to be reunited after nearly 30 years. The Malvern-based punk rock group were in their teens when Cherry Red promoters Iain McNay, Will Atkinson and Richard Jones decided
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Stuart Watkiss insists his side can put the frighteners on rival clubs near the foot of Coca-Cola League Two with a win over Cheltenham Town. Harriers have the worst away record in the Football League this season after recording
MALVERN Rugby Club have a must-win Midlands Two West game at Spring Lane tomorrow (Saturday) when they host fellow title-chasers Burton RFC. With the three top teams all on 17 points, Malvern still head the table on points difference after their disappointing
Dec 17: Brian and Philomena would like to invite you to practice your ballroom and Latin skills at Fernhill Heath Memorial Hall, Worcester (A38 between Droitwich and Worcester) to Brian's Supersounds. Soft drinks only please. For further details and table
Until Dec 20: Jon Salisbury, Churches and Traffic Lights. A visual exploration of contemporary city life in Worcester, from ancient architecture to busy streets at Droitwich Spa Library, Victoria Square, Droitwich. For further details telephone 01905
WE'RE lucky to have the Royal Worcestershire Hospital. I was diagnosed with a nasty cancer in June of this year and am now recovering from wonderful treatment. The care and attention paid to me was wonderful. I experienced chemotherapy and had major seven-hour
Dec 17: Martyn Joseph, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester; Afterview and Great Blind Degree, Marr's Bar, Worcester; Ronan Keating, NEC Arena, Birmingham; The Reflections plus DJ Dav Luce, Drummonds Bar, New Street, Worcester. Dec 18: Steve Rezillo, Barbourne
I RECENTLY fell from a tree while pruning it. Fortunately, I was not badly hurt. I wish to offer my sincere thanks to the two ambulance crews, especially the technician who talked to me and kept me calm - also the fire crew, A&E and Woodland Day Care
Dec 15-17: Roses Theatre, Kidderminster. A traditional offering of musical and literary presentations to get you in the mood for the festive season. Always popular with our audiences, come and join us in our annual celebrations which includes carol singing
Dec 18: Stodge, Podge and Twinkle (2 garden gnomes and a Christmas tree fairy) at The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich. Tickets available from 01905 770154 or on the door. Dec 18: Mother Goose pantomime at Wyre Forest Glades. For further details telephone 01562
ARE the pensioners and disabled in Worcester being led up the garden path by the council and bus company yet again in the saga of bus passes? It seems reasonable to pay an extra £4 per year for our passes and an extra 5p for each journey. However, this
THE activities of local ne'er-do-well Jockey Gwynn were occupying the mind of Gazette columnist Ariel a century ago. Ariel quoted the great historian Carlyle, who said that "there is a perennial nobleness and even sacredness in work", before noting that
IT was 'all right on the night' for a Malvern youth drama group that staged its first production on Saturday. The Drama Platform performed The Rainbow Show to an audience of 120 at St Andrew's Church Hall. The piece, which included songs, readings and
MALVERN'S Jane Lush Drama Group will be serving up mystery and suspense in its Christmas production tonight (Friday). Who is the strange visitor who does charitable work for no apparent reward? Who stole Ethel and Maureen's antique teapot? Who took little
magical happenings on the sweet-loving planet Marzipan are brought to life in the latest production at Malvern's Theatre of Small Convenience. The tale of the Snow Cake Man follows the character Princess Spoilt-tart and is set in a place where everyone
THE Malvern Pirates ended the first part of the season with an impressive 40-12 win over Earlsdon. EARLSDON U16S 12pts, MALVERN U16S Pirates 40pts Centre backs, Phil Shore and John Lewis collecting a hat-tick of tries each aided by near faultless goal
Theatre December 17-The Father Christmas Burglaries at Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Link Top, Malvern performed by the Jane Lush Drama Group. 5.45pm. Admission free. Until18-A Tale from the Snowcake Man at the Theatre of Small Convenience, Edith Walk, Great
COLWALL cricket club held their annual awards presentation on Friday evening at Colwall Village Hall. Over 100 players and guests attended. Several of the awards had been hotly contested, especially those for first XI batting and bowling. Club captain
A KIDDERMINSTER law firm is hoping to change the way property is bought and sold by transferring deeds, papers, money and stamp duty by e-mail or online. Morton Fisher Solicitors, which is based in Worcester Street, has been asked to take part in an e-conveyancing
A MUCH-changed Malvern Town side took to the field for this Worcestershire Senior Urn fixture against a young and talented Castle Vale side on Tuesday. MALVERN TOWN 1, CASTLE VALE 4 For the first 30 minutes the game was even until Duncan Preedy slipped
MALVERN Town travelled to fourth-placed Loughbrough Dynamo and returned with a satisfying 2-0 victory. LOUGHBOROUGH DYNAMO 0, MALVERN TOWN 2 Malvern started well and in the 6th minute Phil Preedy's shot from the edge of the area went just over the bar
ATEAM of Worcester's up-and-coming young DJs are trekking south this weekend to spin the decks at a festive club night in Bristol. The event has been organised by club brand Koolwaters - who hold a monthly residency at Club Castro in Bristol, where the
ANYONE looking for some traditional, festive, family entertainment this winter need look no further than the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham. This Christmas, Daylight Theatre's hugely successful and much loved fairytale Ivan's Christmas Eve, comes to the
WHEN you tell people you have been to interview a man in a public toilet, not surprisingly, there are a few raised eyebrows and puzzled expressions. When you explain that the man in question is master puppeteer and storyteller Dennis Neale from Welland
SOPRANO Catherine Galloway, will present a Song for Eardisley in St Mary Magdalene Church on Saturday. A performer of considerable experience, Catherine's repertoire has included the lead in Madame Butterfly and principal roles in La Boheme, Carmen, The
CHRISTMAS is definitely coming. Curtains are going up on pantomimes and Worcester weighed in last week with its contribution - and even managed to pack in a plug for next year's. Jack Wild, headlining in Cinderella, at the Swan Theatre, is a living embodiment
LEMONY SNICKET'S A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS (PG) Jim Carrey stars in this big screen adaptation of the first three of Lemony Snicket's dark world that the Beaudelaire children find themselves inhabiting. See review, right. Odeon, Worcester 12.45,
Singer and songwriter Martyn Joseph performs at Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, tonight (Friday). Martyn has recorded two albums, had five top fifty songs and has toured with acts including Jools Holland, Chris De Burgh and Celine Dion. The concert begins
THE choristers of Holy Trinity Church in Whitecross have been working hard in preparation for their Festival of Lessons and Carols which will take place by candlelight on Sunday, at 6.30pm. The church will be lit by over 600 candles and the congregation
Jan 7: Brian and Philomena invite you to an evening of Ballroom, Latin & Sequence dancing at Powick Village Hall, Powick, Worcester. Bring your own refreshments. Telephone Brian or Philomena on 01905 454338 for further details. Jan 8: Brian and Philomena
Dec 17: Brian and Philomena would like to invite you to practice your ballroom and Latin skills at Fernhill Heath Memorial Hall, Worcester (A38 between Droitwich and Worcester) to Brian's Supersounds. Soft drinks only please. For further details and table
Until Dec 20: Jon Salisbury, Churches and Traffic Lights. A visual exploration of contemporary city life in Worcester, from ancient architecture to busy streets at Droitwich Spa Library, Victoria Square, Droitwich. For further details telephone 01905
Dec 15-17: Roses Theatre, Kidderminster. A traditional offering of musical and literary presentations to get you in the mood for the festive season. Always popular with our audiences, come and join us in our annual celebrations which includes carol singing
Dec 18: Stodge, Podge and Twinkle (2 garden gnomes and a Christmas tree fairy) at The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich. Tickets available from 01905 770154 or on the door. Dec 18: Mother Goose pantomime at Wyre Forest Glades. For further details telephone 01562
Malvern Cinema: The Phantom of the Opera (12A) 3pm & 7.30pm. Odeon Worcester: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events (PG) 12.45, 3.10, 5.45, 8.10 Free list suspended; Ella Enchanted (PG) 12.55, 3.00, 5.05, 7.00; The Phantom of the Opera (
KATE Wrigglesworth's highly imaginative, colourful art makes a seasonal addition to the upper gallery of Hereford's Courtyard arts centre. Her paintings are mainly figurative, romantic and nave, partly autobiographical, partly narrative. Subject matter
magical happenings on the sweet-loving planet Marzipan are brought to life in the latest production at Malvern's Theatre of Small Convenience. The tale of the Snow Cake Man follows the character Princess Spoilt-tart and is set in a place where everyone
ATEAM of Worcester's up-and-coming young DJs are trekking south this weekend to spin the decks at a festive club night in Bristol. The event has been organised by club brand Koolwaters - who hold a monthly residency at Club Castro in Bristol, where the
CHRISTMAS came early for the lucky winners of our annual Santa's Postbag competition when Santa handed over their prizes. Hundereds of you wrote in to Berrow's Worcester Journal and the Evening News to tell Santa all about yourselves and what you wanted
REINDEER horn headpieces, Bridget Jones-style festive pullovers and round robin family newsletters are among the things people in Worcestershire consider the "cheesiest" things about Christmas. Their Christmas wish list swings wildly between world peace
ANYONE looking for some traditional, festive, family entertainment this winter need look no further than the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham. This Christmas, Daylight Theatre's hugely successful and much loved fairytale Ivan's Christmas Eve, comes to the
KEMPSEY Parish Council will be relieved when it gets a new parish office - in a former toilet block behind the Community Centre. Discussion of employing an architect to design the new office led to a rash of puns at the December meeting. To Kim Rowswell's
WHEN you tell people you have been to interview a man in a public toilet, not surprisingly, there are a few raised eyebrows and puzzled expressions. When you explain that the man in question is master puppeteer and storyteller Dennis Neale from Welland
SEVEN puppies found dumped in a garage behind the Spar shop in Tolladine, Worcester, are looking for new loving homes. The German Shepherd cross dogs, which are between eight and 12 weeks old, were found by Alan Jackson, who runs the Spar shop on Rose
The Travel Factory Midland Football Alliance Saturday, December 18: Malvern Town v Quorn (3.00). Bank Holiday Monday, December 27: Westfields v Malvern Town. Malvern Town Reserves West Midlands League Division One Saturday, December 18: Wolverhampton
TONIGHT (Friday) at the parish hall, a screening of the very popular film Love Actually. Set in contemporary London in the two months before Christmas, it weaves together a series of touching and hilarious stories culminating in several romantic climaxes
CHILDREN at St James' Junior Church took part in a Christmas presentation of the Nativity last Sunday morning with a cast of traditional characters, including Evie Parry as Mary and George Counsel as Joseph. The story was narrated by Claudia Parry, Adam
The Cradley pantomime, which this year is an adaptation of Kenneth Graham's classic The Wind in the Willows, will be showing from Tuesday to Saturday, January 11-15 at the new school. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children, and are now on sale
THIS Sunday, the traditional carol service will take place at St Mary's Church, Guarlford at 10.30am - there will be no service at Madresfield. The service will be led by members of the choir. On Christmas Eve there will be a crib service at 5.15pm at
THERE will be a carol service in Christ Church tomorrow (Saturday) at 4pm. It is always a cheerful occasion and everyone will be welcome to swell the voices. Also at this service, a beautiful wall hanging made by Amanda Wright will be dedicated. It hangs
This Sunday will see the annual Carols by Candlelight service at St James's Church, starting at 6.30pm, an occasion which brings the whole community together and invariably fills the church. We hear that there has been a shortage of male voices at the
MAKE no mistake today is a sad day for Worcestershire. It marks the beginning of the end for the Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters Regiment in its present form. Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon last night confirmed many people's worst fears. The regiment
IRISH eyes were smiling two years ago when James Brown helped his side lift the Powergen Cup. Tomorrow, Worcester's fly-half is primed to bring tears to those same eyes as London Irish visit Sixways for a cup duel. Brown, who spent three years at Irish
COUNTY councillors want to ask Worcestershire households for an extra £35 to fund services. Leaders plan a 4.25 per cent increase in the Council Tax demand, pushing the amount paid to County Hall by the average home to £824. Schools, roads, helping older
THE merging of the Worcestershire & Sherwood Forester Regiment into a super-regiment could affect recruitment believes a former Regimental Secretary. Col. John Lowles, who is now chairman of the Worcestershire Regiment's Museum in Worcester, hit out
UNIVERSITY College Worcester's Students' Union has been slammed by an alcohol advice charity for promoting binge-drinking at its Christmas bash. Peter Thorogood, Worcester Advisory Service on Alcohol's chief executive, said the SU was "irresponsible"
A VILLAGE hall that has stood the test of nearly five centuries is currently undergoing major renovation in Clifton upon Teme. The half-timbered listed building, dating from about 1620, is believed to be the oldest village hall in Worcestershire. It was
A DEFIANT Ledbury hunt says it expects a record crowd for its post-Christmas meet after news broke that police have charged three of its members following their invasion of Parliament. Foxhunting will be banned in February which means this year's event
UPTON people are being urged to dig deep to help pay for a new Land Rover for the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA). The Upton branch desperately needs to replace its existing 14-year-old vehicle, which is expected to cost about £20,000. Station chairman
THE Upton in Bloom committee is looking forward to a bright new year. Members met at The Anchor last week to discuss what work needs to be done next year to ensure success in the Heart of England in Bloom competition. Spokesman Lindsay Dyke said that
CHILDREN are invited to find 37 yellow ducks hiding in shops around Upton. By filling in a form with the correct location for each duck, youngsters will be entered into a prize draw. Forms for the competition are available at Gifted, in High Street. The
A CHRISTMAS cabaret takes place at Upton Memorial Hall tomorrow (Saturday). The Peppercorns youth theatre group will perform a selection of music and songs at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5, from Upton Post Office.
THE Welsh Border Morris Men will be performing at Waterside, Upton, tomorrow (Saturday), at 1pm.
I was sad to read the article (Malvern Gazette & Ledbury Reporter, December 10) about the closure of the Moat House Nursing Home. As someone who worked there doing activities with the residents, I feel I must redress the balance and point out some
NEWTOWN gained their second cup victory of the season and although both against lowly sides get a well deserved semi-final place. NEWTOWN SPORTS 6, LYPPARD RANGERS U16s 0 The pitch conditions were far from ideal but there were no complaints as Newtown
AFTER having a break last week due to Oak Apple's failure to appear for the game, Powick were keen to register three points in the group stage of the Phipps Cup. POWICK 6, PERSHORE MANOR 1 The change of location was made from the home team pitch at Powick
Fishmonger Ian Leach is setting up his stall for the last time today at Malvern market. Mr Leach, who has been selling fish at the Friday market for 18 years, will be sadly missed by his many loyal customers. "It's like losing a little bit of Malvern
I'M afraid I totally disagree with the people who would like to see a restaurant and visitors' centre on the highest peak of the Malverns, or any part of those lovely hills. Part of their joy is being able to get away from urbanism, and breathe in peace
HOW delightful for Malvern residents and enlightened on the part of South Worcester-shire Primary Care Trust to offer formal public consultation, with the opportunity for confidential written returns, about what kind of hospital and GP services taxpayers
MAY I say a thank you to the many people of the Malvern Hills for their co-operation in raising funds for Cancer Research UK. With your efforts we raise about £20,000 each year in fundraising activities, flag days and donations. It is a sad fact that
THE latest nomination for a 'Malvern Grot Spot' comes from Priory Road resident Richard Wood. "It's a plot of land behind 12 Priory Road, beside the Splash where Turning Point is centred now. It's used for parking cars," said Mr Wood. "There's an old
It's all change at the top for Hanley Castle High School as headmaster Alan Johnston retires after 16 years at the helm. He will pass the baton to the current deputy head, Rob Haring, who has been at the school for three years. "It will be sad to go.
A defiant Ledbury Hunt says it expects a record crowd for its traditional post-Christmas meet as news breaks that police have charged three of its members following their invasion of Parliament. Fox-hunting will be banned in February so this could be
A MENTAL health charity that held regular meetings in Bromyard is to close on Christmas Eve, leaving up to 60 people without support and four staff out of work. The Hereford User Group (HUG) is folding because of a lack of funding to subsidise its annual
CONTRIBUTIONS to the Malvern Hills Conservators through council tax are likely to increase by three per cent next year. Estimated budget costs for 2005/6 show a total levy of £329,000, which amounts to £24.14 for a Band D household. The figures were due
THE family of toddler Adam Foulkes have raised more than £5,550 from a swimming challenge in his memory. Adam was 16 months old when he was found lying face down and not breathing by his mum Donna. The cause of death could not be determined. Donna and
CENTRAL defender Colin Hoyle is Worcester City's major injury worry ahead of their trip to Lancaster City in the Nationwide North tomorrow. Hoyle, who joined the club from Burton Albion in the summer, has a back injury and will undergo a late fitness
Volunteers for a Bromyard charity are celebrating after raising a record amount of money. The Bromyard and District Support Group for St Michael's Hospice has raised nearly £5,000 through recent events in the town. A craft fair and Last Night of the Proms
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Stuart Watkiss insists his side can put the frighteners on rival clubs near the foot of Coca-Cola League Two with a win over Cheltenham Town. Harriers have the worst away record in the Football League this season after recording
The effort, positive attitude and ability of pupils at The Chase high school was praised by headteacher Kevin Peck at a prize-giving ceremony on Tuesday. Mr Peck said the event celebrated a marvellous group of people who thoroughly deserved what they
A CASTLEMORTON spring owner fears Coca-Cola Enterprises' plans to collect water from a second source on the hills will stop him reopening his mineral water business. Tim Cameron has written a letter of objection to Hereford-shire Council as he thinks
BROMSGROVE Rovers need to be on their guard when lowly Bracknell Town visit tomorrow (3pm). Bottom but one Bracknell arrive at the Victoria Ground with just five wins from 21 games, the most played in Southern League Division One West this season. Yet
EVESHAM United manager Dave Busst believes an unbeaten run through the Christmas and New Year period will provide the perfect foundation stone for his side's promotion bid. The Robins are currently top of Southern League Division One West and victory
THE closing stages of the first round of the Malvern Table Tennis League handicap competition saw Broadheath Belters gain a confidence building 27 points victory over Manor Park Crackpots. For Broadheath John Stalker played confidently to take points
WITH Crackpots B gaining three points in their two fixtures this week in the Malvern Table Tennis League division three, they have taken the top position in the table just one point ahead of Manor Park Crackpots. Manor Park Maulers suffered their first
SATURDAY FOOTBALL THE TRAVEL FACTORY MIDLAND FOOTBALL ALLIANCE Malvern Town v Quorn (3.00). WEST MIDLANDS LEAGUE Premier Division: Bromyard Town v Lye Town (2.45); Ledbury Town v Bustleholme (2.45). Division One: Wolverhampton United v Malvern Town Reserves
YOUNGSTERS from Malvern Rugby Club's Youth Development Section will be put through their paces at a special training session this Sunday morning (December 19) by three premiership rugby stars from Worcester Warriors. England international and the Warriors
NORTH Midlands Cup beaten finalists last year, Malvern RFC, have been drawn at home to cup newcomers University College Worcester in the quarter-finals of the competition. The students began their cup competition with a convincing victory against Midlands
MALVERN RFC Saturday, December 18 1st XV v Burton (Home). Meet Railway Inn noon. Kick off 2.30pm. No 1 Dress code. Maroon warm up jacket, maroon shorts and socks. M Richardson (capt), A Wenden, S Lancett, J Drage, J Hynes, A Ruddock, S Smith, A Thomas
LONDON Irish boss Gary Gold is anxious to repeat the Exiles' cup success of 2002 -- but admits Premiership newcomers Worcester Warriors present a sizeable first hurdle. The South African looked ahead to tomorrow's sixth round Powergen showdown and said
THE Brains Trust met in the Barmaid's Bosom this week, which I must say is very festively decorated this year. Landlord has really splashed out and bought a tree - which is all of 3ft tall, a string of lights that must cost at least 3p a month to run,
Singer and songwriter Martyn Joseph performs at Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, tonight (Friday). Martyn has recorded two albums, had five top fifty songs and has toured with acts including Jools Holland, Chris De Burgh and Celine Dion. The concert begins
MALVERN Town entertained Skelmersdale FC at the Langland Stadium in the third round of the FA Vase on Saturday and after a bright opening eventually lost 1-3 to their opponents from Lancashire. MALVERN TOWN 1, SKELMERSDALE FC 3 (After extra time) There
Jan 7: Brian and Philomena invite you to an evening of Ballroom, Latin & Sequence dancing at Powick Village Hall, Powick, Worcester. Bring your own refreshments. Telephone Brian or Philomena on 01905 454338 for further details. Jan 8: Brian and Philomena
WITH four injuries in key positions, including the loss of pack cornerstone and skipper Matt Richardson, the omens were not good for the visit of second-placed Hinckley. MALVERN 14PTS, HINCKLEY 32PTS The Leicestershire side came out of the blocks at full
THE letter (You Say, Wednesday, December 8) from Douglas Batchelor, chief executive of the League Against Cruel Sports was triumphalist to say the least. I wonder if he will still be applauding this corrupt Government when it rushes through a Bill to
WITH regards to having more park-and-ride I feel a better idea would be to have resident buses to call every half hour or every hour picking up the public in outlying areas. This would be a better idea than park-and-ride. If a bus was stationed on an
THERE has been speculation recently about the possibility of a Lib Dem gain in West Worcestershire, the seat currently held by Sir Michael Spicer MP. There is no doubt that Sir Michael is a hard-working constituency MP. At national and European level,
CLEVELODE athlete Matt Bond took first place in the North England rowing triathlon held at Salford Quays and hosted by Agecroft Rowing Club. Twenty-two-year-old Matt, who was competing for the Manchester Tri Club, finished five minutes ahead of his time
What constitutes a special occasion around Christmas time? That was the question being posed by the Gazette 25 years ago. The paper was reporting on the decision by Upton magistrates to throw out four out of six applications for late licences at pubs.
100 years ago An employee of the General Post Office, Malvern, had an exciting and mysterious experience on one morning last week. He was cycling to the Post Office about 4am and, near the end of Graham Road, close to the Link Common, a figure rushed
Malvern Cinema: The Phantom of the Opera (12A) 3pm & 7.30pm. Odeon Worcester: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events (PG) 12.45, 3.10, 5.45, 8.10 Free list suspended; Ella Enchanted (PG) 12.55, 3.00, 5.05, 7.00; The Phantom of the Opera (
DESPITE swapping barbecues and beaches for scarves and gloves, Alan Fletcher, one of the star's of Malvern's pantomime, says he is happy to be in the town for Christmas. Alan, who plays Dr Karl Kennedy in Australia's well-loved soap Neighbours, is starring
MALVERN'S seconds maintained their fine away form with a comprehensive victory at the racecourse ground last Saturday on a cool, dry day which provided excellent playing conditions. HEREFORD GREYHOUNDS 8pts, MALVERN II 31pts Malvern's power up front provided
ENGINEERING group IMI said it was confident of continued progress in 2005 despite caution about the economic outlook. The Birmingham-based firm, which makes drinks dispensing equipment and pipes and fittings for the medical and automotive industries,
EMPLOYERS in Worcestershire and Herefordshire are being urged to give their workers a well-deserved Christmas present by taking advantage of £1,000 worth of free training. The Chamber of Commerce and Business Link Herefordshire and Worcestershire is offering
