Archive

  • Pigeons lived here - but now old eyesore is fit for a family

    A PROPERTY in Worcester that was for years a dilapidated eyesore has new occupants after undergoing a major revamp costing more than £50,000. The house in Stanley Road, off Wyld's Lane, had fallen into disrepair and blighted the neighbourhood. The only

  • Natalie is behind bid to find face of bike firm

    FORMER Worcester resident turned model Natalie Denning is urging budding catwalk stars to boost their career as a nationwide search for faces of the future hits the road. Motorcycle insurance company Bennetts is looking for 12 girls from across the country

  • We still don't know who painted bench

    THERE are still few clues to the identity of a phantom painter who daubed a city shopping precinct in an array of vivid colours. The Worcester News reported yesterday how the 'artist' painted a bench, cobbles and bricks on the Hopmarket's Citizens Advice

  • Pause here for a moment of reflection

    Visitors to the Worcester Porcelain Museum may find it is a double chance for reflection. Not only can they view some fine and interesting pieces of historic porcelain, but the museum's latest artwork has been displayed so it can be seen as a reflection

  • Trent's got a big heart - now he needs your love

    THIS springer spaniel is the fourth of our 12 dogs of Christmas. The Worcester News and Danemere Animal Rescue have joined forces to bring you animals that have been abandoned or handed in to the centre, in Tibberton, near Droitwich. They have all found

  • BOSBURY Correspondent: Mrs R Krinks Tel: 01531 640076

    YOU are warmly invited to a village breakfast at the parish hall on Monday (January 2) and also available are organised walks around the wonderful surrounding countryside. Walk leaders, Gill and John Andrews and Gerald Blandford, with their wealth of

  • New season offers you drumming to make-up

    NUMBER 8's fourth season has opened for bookings with a host of live events to take advantage of. The Pershore venue will welcome performers from the Hatstand Opera, African and contemporary dance group, ACE Dance and Music, and the Japanese Drummers.

  • Government and feelings of deja vu

    SOONER or later, any government of the day will feel the need to question the efficiency and structure of local authorities. The last major shake-up took place in the 1970s and is worth recalling now. During the late 60s, John Redcliffe-Maud drew up a

  • Strong Shayne's at the top

    AS revelations about his family's distinctively shady past continue to fill column inches, Shayne Ward is remaining remarkably resilient. Before the singer had even achieved his triumphant victory on the second series of The X Factor, we'd already learnt

  • Trio hope success will be a black day

    WORKING with everyone from late Traffic drummer Jim Capaldi to Eurovision Song Contest singers, a new musical trio has a wealth of experience. Sheppard, Jarvis and Mason comprise Worcester musicians Darren Sheppard and Rob Mason and Birmingham-based Pete

  • Swimming

    KIDDERMINSTER swimming sensation Amy Smith is hoping to achieve Commonwealth Games success with England next year after being called up for the 4 x 100m relay team. The 18-year-old was selected for the GB squad after starring at the WASA Winter Long Course

  • Volleyball

    A KIDDERMINSTER volleyball player has achieved his boyhood dream after making his debut for the England national team. Neil Masters, who took up the sport when he was a pupil at Sladen Middle School, won his first cap against Scotland in Glasgow earlier

  • Robins abreast of poor Harriers

    HIT-AND-miss Harriers paid the penalty for their failure to kill off Conference also-rans Altrincham in a Boxing Day tale of two spot-kicks at Aggborough. A decent crowd of 2,206 would have been better off staying in watching repeats on the telly as Harriers

  • Rescue crews try out boats

    MEMBERS of Mercia Inshore Search and Rescue have tested two new rescue craft on the River Severn at Upton. Nineteen volunteer members tried out a jet ski and rescue raft from the Swift Water Training Centre at Bala, in Wales, earlier this month. MISAR

  • New face at police station

    A new counter clerk, Martin Tucker, has taken up his post at Upton Police Station. The police station will now be open for public inquiries on a two-week rota, corresponding to the district council's recycling of purple and clear bags. Week 1 (clear),

  • Hedge axed for driveway

    A 150-metre section of hedge will removed to make way for a new driveway at Duckswich Farm in Upton. Planning permission for the vehicle access on to Welland Road was granted by Malvern Hills District Council's southern area development control committee

  • Library to extend its opening hours

    UPTON library will extend its opening to provide borrowers with a better service, starting on Wednesday, January 4. They are: Monday, 1.30pm-5pm and 5.30pm-8pm; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-5.30pm.

  • Boxing Day blaze

    Firefighters in Upton were called to deal with a chimney fire at Walnut Tree House, Hanley Castle, at 9.30pm on Boxing Day.

  • Flying visit disappointment

    THROUGH your letters' page, I would like to express how appalled I was with Malvern Hills Lions Club with regard to the Father Christmas tour. On Tuesday, December 20, according to the report in the paper, he was supposed to be starting his tour in Quest

  • 'Our father's just been left to cope'

    NEGLECT, indifference and a total lack of care is how one family describe their father's experiences as a patient at Worcestershire Royal Hospital. Frail and ill with bowel problems, 80-year-old James McArthur, from Malvern, was, say his relatives, "just

  • Club looks to convert big plans into reality

    MALVERN'S biggest sports club has big plans for 2006. Malvern Rugby Football Club is aiming to raise £100,000 to build an extension to its Spring Lane clubhouse. The proposed extension would add a sponsors' room, with a large window to watch matches from

  • Wobble away from danger

    I SUPPORT Coun Sheila Young's appeal in your December 16 issue for safer facilities for pedestrians and cyclists along the B4503 road between Malvern and Leigh Sinton. However, the same problem exists on most roads in the district. As if confirmation

  • Driver fights for life

    A DRIVER is fighting for his life after a crash at Callow End on Friday, December 23. The accident happened on the B4424 at about 10.30pm and involved a VW Polo travelling in the Upton direction and a Jeep Cherokee going the other way. Firefighters cut

  • Store move still uncertain

    KWIK Save supermarket and its 30 employees are facing an uncertain future in Malvern. Planning permission was last week granted for extension and alteration of the Kwik Save building at Spring Lane, Malvern Link, paving the way for Focus DIY to relocate

  • Top MoD scientist retires after 40 years

    MALVERN'S Peter Doran has retired after a career spanning over 40 years with the MoD. Colleagues travelled from the USA, Germany and France to attend Mr Doran's farewell 'do' at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory in Malvern. Mr Doran initially

  • Flats scheme wins go-ahead

    EIGHT new affordable homes will be built in Sherrards Green, Malvern. The two-bedroom flats in four blocks will be built by Festival Housing on the site of a garage block and parking area off Moat Way, between Pound Bank Road and The Glade. Despite objections

  • In the back door

    THE Government's humiliation over the failure to regionalise the northern area of Britain is being 'remedied' by creeping back-door methods. An example is the merging (regionalisation) of the police - with fighting terrorism as the feeble excuse - and

  • Concern at station move

    THE future of Bromyard Ambulance Station is concerning town councillors. Plans to close the station and move it to Froome Bank Hospital were mooted last month, but at a meeting last week town council chairman Gill Churchill said she was not sure what

  • Crash victims to be named today

    A car crash at Fromes Hill has claimed another life, after a passenger died of his injuries in hospital. Both male victims will be formally identified at an inquest opening today (Friday) in Hereford. Coroner's officer Maggie Oliver said the inquest into

  • Hunt has words of defiance

    A BIG crowd turned out for the Ledbury Hunt's traditional Boxing Day meet, gathering at the Feathers Hotel to cheer the riders. Hunt members enjoyed their stirrup cup in High Street before heading off. Addressing the assembled crowd, joint master Tom

  • Town faces traffic delays

    WATER maintenance work is set to disrupt Malvern town centre traffic for more than a month. Church Street will be closed in January whilst contractors Balfour Beatty carry out work on behalf of Severn Trent. It will be closed from Tuesday, January 3,

  • Smith is fighting to scare off Tigers

    LIONHEART defender Chris Smith is expected to win his fitness battle to tame Hyde United's Tigers. Smith jarred his knee during Worcester City's 1-1 draw at Stafford Rangers on Boxing Day and was substituted moments into the second-half. The centre-half

  • It's a breeze!

    A SENSING device developed by QinetiQ in Malvern will be used in a wind farm project in Scotland. The ZephIR system can measure wind speed and direction remotely, using a beam of light. It will be used at the Beatrice experimental wind farm, 14 miles

  • Young panto stars line up to take bow

    YOungsters from Malvern and Ledbury are treading the boards with Ron Moody, star of the hit musical Oliver! They are taking a daily bow in the pantomime Peter Pan at Malvern Theatres, which runs until January 8. The line-up of 'Lost Boys' are pupils of

  • Hills a popular escape

    THOUSANDS of people escaped the leftover turkey to take to the Malvern Hills on Boxing Day. The Conservators logged more than 2,000 visitors on what is traditionally their busiest day of the year. Those who braved the cold weather were warmly greeted

  • Swifts boss angered by May approach

    STOURPORT Swifts are to issue an FA complaint following Redditch United's advances for striker Rory May. Swifts manager Roy Rencher claims Reds' caretaker boss Gary Whild has made an illegal approach for May, who spent a loan spell at the Valley Stadium

  • Local firms get chance to share Olympic cash

    VISITORS at the Torino 2006 Winter Olympics will be able to relax in style thanks to businesses in Malvern. Richard Penhaligon, from West Malvern, is managing director of Rural Productions Ltd, which has contracts worth over a million euros to design

  • Robbins is new boss at Pershore

    PERSHORE Town have appointed former Littleton manager Andy Robbins. Robbins takes charge for the first time tomorrow when Pershore travel to Shifnal Town (noon) in the Midland Combination Premier and will look to field five new signings. Pershore, struggling

  • 30/12/05 - Trainers set their sights

    EVERY owner and trainer starts a new point-to-point season with high hopes, writes Peter Mansell. Some have their aspirations met, while others suffer the indignity of seeing their pride and joy failing to live up to expectations. We look at some of the

  • 30/12/05 - Sapey results

    SAPEY Golf Club held their Christmas foursomes with R Broadhead and S Upton coming out on top, following a back three countback. Results (half combined handicap): R Broadhead and S Upton 80 gross 13 handicap 67 nett; K Leadbetter and J Gale 77-10-67;

  • 30/12/05 - Bridge results

    LEDBURY DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB After the festivities of last week, it was back to the more serious business of the Winter Pairs competition on December 21. Janet Holder and June Homes led the way in the N/S direction, scoring 62.24 and following them were

  • 30/12/05 - Fixtures

    football TONIGHT (FRIDAY) THE TRAVEL FACTORY MIDLAND FOOTBALL ALLIANCE Coalville Town v Malvern Town (7.45). SATURDAY FOOTBALL WEST MIDLANDS LEAGUE Premier Division: Ledbury Town v Bewdley Town (2.45). Division One: Malvern Rangers v Hinton (1.45); Malvern

  • 30/12/05 - Brace for Mark Owen on return

    MALVERN Town remain in control at the top of the Harvey Travel World Midland Alliance after beating Herefordshire rivals Westfields 3-1 at the Langland Stadium on Boxing Day. MALVERN TOWN 3, WESTFIELDS 1 Striker Mark Owen marked his return from bronchitis

  • 30/12/05 - Tracy Moseley is world number 1

    FORMER Chase pupil Tracy Moseley, 26, has ended the year ranked number one in the world for downhill mountain bike racing. Tracy has had a manic 12 months of events and several wins meant that the spot at world number one was guaranteed. She has a string

  • A true visionary

    SIR - I thoroughly agree with N Taylor's letters. He is indeed a true visionary and this shines through. M BURCHER, Worcester.

  • PLACES TO VISIT

    Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham. Local history. Contact for opening times (01386 446944). Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove. Restored buildings including working windmill, agricultural buildings, industrial buildings

  • EVENTS

    SATURDAY December 31 Charity dance In aid of County Air Ambulance at Dyson Perrins High School, Malvern at 8.00pm. For further details and table bookings please telephone 01684 574741. Malvern Crepes and Drapes Rock n Roll Club Dance to Ghostriders at

  • GIG GUIDE

    If you have any gigs going on at your pub/venue call Joby Mullens on 01905 742252 or email: jobymullens@midlands. newsquest.co.uk Tonight Boozestock (Day Two): And What Will Be Left Of Them?, Buck Brothers and Cape Of Good Hope - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint

  • Culprits are not going to own up

    SIR - I see that rubbish has been left in the street at Avon Road. We know that wheelie bins are now in action and being used. I fail to see why the black bags of rubbish were not thrown on to the rubbish wagon and got rid of, rather than leave it hanging

  • How our elderly are being abused

    SIR - For most people this is a magical time of year when it is traditional to visit family, remember loved ones and share presents. It's also a time when, as a society, we think about those who are homeless or alone. There is a firm belief that no one

  • I know - what about a Severnth Wonder?

    SIR - I heard on the local radio people being asked their ideas about a name and ideas for the new riverside development in Worcester funded through a £25m lottery grant. A public space, amphitheatre and ice rink sounds great. The idea of the Lighthouse

  • 30/12/05 - Treasurer stands down

    COLWALL Cricket Club have announced the resignation of its long-standing treasurer, David Hallows. David has a lengthy relationship with the Worcester Cricket League club, he and his son as players, and he has been treasurer for many years. Club chairman

  • Arrival of electricity was put to good use by shops

    "The residents of and visitors to Barnards Green during this Christmas show time have been enlightened somewhat as to the progressive character of the shopkeepers in that locality," reported the Gazette 100 years ago. "It is very evident that the extension

  • Echoes from the Past

    100 years ago The animated pictures of naval and military life now being shown at the Assembly Rooms are among the best that have ever been presented to a Malvern audience. Although the scenes deal mainly with naval and military life, there are many others

  • Cinemas

    Malvern Cinema: The Chronicles of Narnia (PG) 30th and 2nd-5th 3pm & 7.15pm, 31st & 1st 3pm. Odeon Worcester: King Kong (12A) Fri, Mon-Tues & Thurs 11.15, 12.15, 3.00, 4.00, 6.40, 7.45, 8.40, Sat 11.15, 12.15, 3.00, 4.00, Sun & Weds 12.15

  • LIVE & KICKING: MUSIC, DRAMA AND DANCE

    THE Courtyard's new season is packed with an exciting range of events due to take place from New Year through to the end of March infrom its Hereford venue. Popular faces will return to the venue including music groups the Syd Lawrence Orchestra - with

  • Players stage Kipling's classic tale of jungle life

    THE story of a little boy adopted by animals in the Indian jungle is Malvern Theatre Players' latest production. Rudyard Kipling's classic The Jungle Book is at Malvern Theatres from Thursday to Saturday, January 12-21 The show is dedicated to JJ Smith

  • What's on

    Theatre December Until 31-Round the Horne Revisited Christmas Special at Malvern Theatres. 2pm & 7.30pm. £14-£20. Box office (01684) 892277. Until Jan 8-Peter Pan at the Festival Theatre, Malvern Theatres. Various times. £10-£18. Box office (01684

  • 30/12/05 - Angels show improvement

    MALVERN Angels hosted their final development game before Christmas against their old adversaries, Berry Hill. MALVERN ANGELS 82pts, BERRY HILL 10pts The Angels, who have always been the underdogs in these fixtures, showed Berry Hill that they have matured

  • 30/12/05 - Town in action

    MALVERN Town play their next Midland Alliance game tonight (Friday) when they visit Coalville Town (7.45pm). They complete their holiday period fixtures on Bank Holiday Monday (January 2) when Tipton Town visit Langland Stadium (3pm).

  • 30/12/05 - Smith is fighting to scare off Tigers

    LIONHEART defender Chris Smith is expected to win his fitness battle to tame Hyde United's Tigers. Smith jarred his knee during Worcester City's 1-1 draw at Stafford Rangers on Boxing Day and was substituted moments into the second-half. The centre-half

  • Upton: Seasonal scenes from throughout the world on display

    CHRISTMAS trees and Nativity scenes from all over the world made for a very special festive display at an Upton-upon-Severn church. St Peter and St Paul Church raised more than £1,200 from the event, which featured exhibits from as far afield as Brazil

  • BUSINESS BRIEF

    Mortgages high MORTGAGE lending looks set to remain strong as the value of loans approved for people remortgaging hit a new high during November, figures revealed. The value of loans approved for people remortgaging reached £8.48bn during the month, while

  • Foundry quits Birmingham for Droitwich

    A BIRMINGHAM-based company has relocated to Worcestershire because of its better communications and facilities. Fisher Foundries, has taken over new freehold premises at Stoford Developments' Stonebridge Cross warehouse site in Droitwich in a move managed

  • Christmas shutdown keeps gas cost steady

    WHOLESALE gas prices remained steady after a Christmas shutdown by much of Britain's heavy industry offset increased domestic use in the cold snap. Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, said the wholesale price had been steady around the 71p-a-therm

  • THE COLDEST DAY FOR 5 YEARS

    FREEZING city residents remain in the grip of an Arctic chill today after 24 hours which saw the coldest temperatures for five years. People woke up to ice, mist and snow this morning as weather experts reported temperatures plummeting as low as minus

  • Even if you detest this mast, don't pull it down

    CAMPAIGNERS who unsuccessfully fought against a phone mast being put up are begging people not to take matters into their own hands and tear it down. Instead, they are hoping the local government ombudsman takes up their cause and looks into how the city

  • New season offers you drumming to make-up

    NUMBER 8's fourth season has opened for bookings with a host of live events to take advantage of. The Pershore venue will welcome performers from the Hatstand Opera, African and contemporary dance group, ACE Dance and Music, and the Japanese Drummers.

  • Trio hope success will be a black day

    WORKING with everyone from late Traffic drummer Jim Capaldi to Eurovision Song Contest singers, a new musical trio has a wealth of experience. Sheppard, Jarvis and Mason comprise Worcester musicians Darren Sheppard and Rob Mason and Birmingham-based Pete

  • Never heard the ESO? - £1 is a really great offer

    FAVOURITES chosen by some of the finest musicians in Malvern will form the centrepiece of a concert to welcome in the new year. English Symphony Orchestra hosts The Maestro's Choice on Friday, January 6, at Malvern Theatres to raise much-needed funds

  • EVENTS

    SATURDAY December 31 Charity dance In aid of County Air Ambulance at Dyson Perrins High School, Malvern at 8.00pm. For further details and table bookings please telephone 01684 574741. Malvern Crepes and Drapes Rock n Roll Club Dance to Ghostriders at

  • GIG GUIDE

    If you have any gigs going on at your pub/venue call Joby Mullens on 01905 742252 or email: jobymullens@midlands. newsquest.co.uk Tonight Boozestock (Day Two): And What Will Be Left Of Them?, Buck Brothers and Cape Of Good Hope - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint

  • Cinemas

    Malvern Cinema: The Chronicles of Narnia (PG) 30th and 2nd-5th 3pm & 7.15pm, 31st & 1st 3pm. Odeon Worcester: King Kong (12A) Fri, Mon-Tues & Thurs 11.15, 12.15, 3.00, 4.00, 6.40, 7.45, 8.40, Sat 11.15, 12.15, 3.00, 4.00, Sun & Weds 12.15

  • PANTOMIMES

    Pantomimes and festive shows on local stages: Aladdin, January 12-14, 18-21 and 25-28, Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, Droitwich. Tel 01905 770154. Peter Pan with Ron Moody and Kasia Haddad, December 16 until January 8 - Malvern Festival Theatre, Tel 01684

  • Drama, music and comedy will open year at Courtyard

    COMEDY, music and drama are on offer at the Courtyard arts centre in Hereford. Tom McConville, singer and one of Britain's leading fiddle players, will perform on Thursday, January 5, at 8pm in the Studio theatre and tickets cost £5. The Courtyard Comedy

  • What's on

    Theatre December Until 31-Round the Horne Revisited Christmas Special at Malvern Theatres. 2pm & 7.30pm. £14-£20. Box office (01684) 892277. Until Jan 8-Peter Pan at the Festival Theatre, Malvern Theatres. Various times. £10-£18. Box office (01684

  • Rona's going to help you discover our past in rock

    IN times gone by, Worcestershire was covered in tropical swamps, desert landscapes and shallow seas. They are now being brought back to life thanks to a new appointment at the University of Worcester. Rona Davis is the new community liaison officer for

  • New year cheer as clubs get their cash

    Two clubs are seeing in the new year with a smile after securing grants of £5,000 each. Malvern Rugby Club has claimed a victory, thanks to cash from the Award for All Lottery fund. Club bosses plan to extend the current kitchen and build a dining area

  • Our prayer for the ones the tsunami didn't spare

    A couple who narrowly escaped death in the Asian tsunami disaster have remembered those who lost their lives. One year ago, Neil and Marina Thorneywork, of Birmingham Road, Blackminster, Evesham, were diving off the Maldives island of Kandooma when the

  • Wrap up and go for a winter walk

    TAKE a step in the right direction to a fit and healthy year ahead by walking in the Worcestershire countryside this winter. That is the message from the county's countryside officers who are encouraging people to put their best foot forward and get some

  • Legionella scare at printing firm

    EMPLOYEES at a Worcester-shire firm spent Christmas worrying about their health after a strain of the deadly bacteria Legionella was found at their workplace. A cooling tower at the printing firm Polestar Varnicoat in Pershore tested positive just over

  • 30/12/05 - A year to remember on and off the pitch

    IT might have ended on a disappointing note but 2005 has been a pretty memorable year for everybody involved with Worcester Warriors. This time last year, Warriors were bottom of the Premiership pile and had just found themselves on the wrong end of a

  • 27/12/05 - Hadland hat-trick hammers home Rovers' class

    Bromsgrove Rovers 6 (3) Cinderford 2 (2) Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney DING-dong! Rovers made sure their fans left feeling merrily on high on December 27, as a swash-buckling display tore apart Cinderford at the Victoria Ground.

  • Colwall Correspondent: Mrs P Hockett Tel: 01684 564872

    On Monday (January 2), Wyche and Colwall Horticultural Society will hold their first meeting of the new year at Colwall Village Hall at 7.30pm. The talk for the evening is entitled Digital Photography in the Garden, given by Jim Almond of Shrewsbury.

  • West Malvern Correspondent: Colin Jackson Tel: 01684 577604

    A reminder of the senior citizens' party at the Royal British Legion, in Lower Road, on New Year's Day, from 3-6pm. Food, wine and entertainment will be on offer and all bus pass-holders will be welcome. Transport can be provided if necessary, contact

  • 30/12/05 - Skipper's January knock-out

    PAT Sanderson's back problem is likely to keep him out of the Warriors side for the whole of January. The Worcester skipper missed the Boxing Day defeat at home to Bath after picking up the injury in the previous week's European Challenge Cup match against

  • ROUND-UP: BOOZESTOCK 2005

    A TRIO of bands will be pulling out the stops in Worcester tonight as they take to the stage as part of an annual festive music festival. Cape of Good Hope, the Buck Brothers and Worcester's very own And What Will Be Left of Them? are all playing Boozestock

  • You've got the right, so enjoy those hams

    THE new access rights, which finally came into force in October in the West Midlands, apply to 'mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common' - so many local walkers will be pleasantly surprised to discover that several riverside meadows between

  • Hunt turnout is biggest yet

    HUNDREDS of people lined Upton's streets to support Croome and West Warwickshire Hunt's traditional Christmas Eve meet. Joint master Diana Ralph believes the turnout was the biggest yet. "The streets were packed and we seem to get more and more support

  • Did I miss it?

    ON Christmas Eve morning I came into Ledbury to enjoy the atmosphere, hear the bells and sing carols round the Christmas Tree to live or canned music. Did I miss it? Was I too early? Not even free car-parking. Thanks to Father Christmas outside Sez I

  • New year wishes

    Thank you for a heart-warming front page Christmas story about the kindnesses of people helping the wife of the postmaster at Hanley Swan, who was injured during a break-in. Many thanks to Ms A Cross for her letter on the sad case of the death of Nicholas

  • Bargain hunters queue from 3.30am

    BARGAIN hunters have been out in force at Malvern Retail Park. Stores and car parks have been packed and traders are reporting bumper sales from the first few days of the January sales. Next launched its sale by opening at 5am on Tuesday, December 27.

  • In good spirits

    MANY thanks to all the people in Upton on Christmas Eve who came to see the Croome and West Warwickshire meet. Everybody was in good spirits and mince pies were handed out. There were far more people out than last year. Also we had our golden eagle "Boss

  • Justly proud

    IT was a pity that your very abbreviated account of The Chase headteacher Kevin Peck's report at the school's recent speech day quoted only his celebration of outstanding academic success. We are, of course, justly proud of our students' results, but

  • School in plea for sponsors

    A MALVERN school that was put in Ofsted's "serious weakness" category nearly three years ago is looking forward to a good start to 2006. Governors at Malvern Parish CE Primary School are launching a sponsorship appeal to help fund a new outdoor area.

  • Back in 2006

    MY family and I were thrilled to read of the restoration of one of our favourite places, St Ann's Well. We live in Manchester and read the Gazette on the web, but spend every moment we possibly can in the Malverns, staying on the campsite at Blackmore

  • Take a walk

    Peter Smith (Your Letters, December 23) suggests the gas lamp which inspired C S Lewis for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is that situated at the junction of Abbey Road and College Road. I have another suggestion: a lamp which stands on a footpath

  • Ron's angling to open first fishing museum

    A KEEN Upton angler wants to create a museum for fellow enthusiasts to enjoy. Ron Evans, who runs Hillview Gardens nursery in Ryall, hopes to open the country's first angling museum at a disused rail terminus in Birmingham. He has amassed a large collection

  • Special day

    WE wish to thank our children, Grant, Alison, Susan and Adrian for arranging our 60th wedding anniversary party at the Tarrington Arms. We would also like to thank family and friends for donations so generously given to St Michael's Hospice and the County

  • New jobs on way as rope firm buys rival

    MALVERN'S English Braids has tied up a take-over deal with a leading rope maker that will create new jobs. The Spring Lane firm has bought the cordage division of Marlow Ropes, which makes ropes for yachts. As part of the deal, it also takes control of

  • Sleigh arrives too late

    A mum has criticised Malvern Hills Lions Club after their Father Christmas sleigh turned up late. Amanda Fairclough, of Highfield Close, Malvern Link, took her children, Thomas, aged seven, and Aimee, two, to see the sleigh on Tuesday, December 20. Although

  • Residents spared cost of sewer fix

    A SEWAGE problem that has been causing a stink in Leigh Sinton for more than two years has been fixed. Residents in nine properties, who faced paying £1,000 per household to solve the problem, are relieved the site's developer has funded the work. Waste

  • Isobel wins national orchestra place

    A TALENTED Colwall musician has beaten hundreds of other young hopefuls to win a coveted place in a national orchestra. Isobel Flett, 15, of Brookmill Close, has been chosen to play the oboe in the National Children's Wind Orchestra, which performs in

  • Ken's off to help tsunami victims

    BUILDING houses for tsunami victims in Sri Lanka is a New Year challenge Ken Allcock is looking forward to. Mr Allcock, of Lansdowne Terrace, Malvern, will visit Hikkaduwa in April to help Actionaid rebuild homes and public buildings destroyed in the

  • Fundraisers do their bit to re-build lives

    PROCEEDS from Malvern fundraising efforts have gone to a charity helping tsunami victims in India. The Janeve Foundation received £5,000 from a healing day of remembrance in Malvern, which helped return boats to the sea in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. Pupils

  • Opinion

    IN 1999 the Malvern Gazette pictured a smiling Jim McArthur on its front page after his idea to name a peak on the Malverns Millennium Hill to mark the year 2000 was adopted. Now the one-time Conservators warden finds himself in need of care at Worces-tershire

  • Skipper's January knock-out

    PAT Sanderson's back problem is likely to keep him out of the Warriors side for the whole of January. The Worcester skipper missed the Boxing Day defeat at home to Bath after picking up the injury in the previous week's European Challenge Cup match against

  • Groups share in Lions' cash

    DESERVING organisations in Malvern received a Christmas present in the form of grants from Mal-vern Hills Lions Club. Four groups have been given money to support their work - 1st Leigh Guides, Leapfrogs pre-school, Malvern Special Needs Swimming Club

  • City boss intent on striker boost

    A STRIKER is at the top of Andy Preece's New Year wish-list. The Worcester City player-manager is working around the clock to add his latest recruit before tomorrow's Nationwide North clash at Hyde United (2pm). Preece has been frustrated in his bid to

  • Bulls bid to get one over bogey team

    GRAHAM Turner reckons Hereford United can end the year with fireworks at St James' Park tonight. Depleted Bulls travel to the south coast to face bogey side Exeter City in front of Sky's television cameras. And they will want to put on an evening show

  • O'Connor could return to pitch

    MARTIN O'Connor is considering exerting his influence directly on the pitch with a long-awaited Conference return tonight. The Kidderminster Harriers caretaker-boss admitted he is tempted to throw himself back into the fray following Monday's flat 1-1

  • We must make up for bad defeat: Busst

    DEMANDING Dave Busst has ordered his lacklustre Evesham United players to show fight in tomorrow's Southern Premier Division clash with Merthyr Tydfil (3pm). The Robins boss slammed Tuesday's 'embarrassing' 4-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Cirencester

  • 30/12/05 - Sporting highlights from 2005 (January to June)

    January MALVERN secured a North Midlands Cup semi-final place with the last kick of the match, after being run hard by University College Worcester. Steve Ott's conversion was all that separated the teams as a fast and furious game at Spring Lane ended

  • 30/12/05 - Sporting highlights from 2005 (July to December)

    July MANOR Park tennis club held its annual tournament and Fran Eckersley returned from a two-year break to win the singles' and doubles' titles, the latter with Penny Smith. Defeat in the mixed doubles' final was her only loss. STORRIDGE golfer Graham

  • Book in for some tales of ponies and heroes

    SADDLE up and prepare for a thrilling ride this Christmas with a new historical fiction series of equestrian adventures, and a book that will make the perfect gift. The Kingfisher Book of Horse and Pony Stories is compiled by horse fanatic Jenny Oldfield

  • 30/12/05 - Knight is free wheel winner

    TEN riders braved the freezing conditions to compete in the VC Sevale Free Wheel Competition on Tuesday. Even with a slight following wind on the descent of British Camp, it was a difficult event, the riders found it hard to keep a smooth line, the cold

  • Seven Days

    The Stench is back to haunt me A FEW years ago, I wrote a column that mentioned my old music teacher. The piece was not entirely complimentary, and my then editor suggested I change the name of this person. Just in case. "Of what?" said I, always ready

  • Never heard the ESO? - £1 is a really great offer

    FAVOURITES chosen by some of the finest musicians in Malvern will form the centrepiece of a concert to welcome in the new year. English Symphony Orchestra hosts The Maestro's Choice on Friday, January 6, at Malvern Theatres to raise much-needed funds

  • 30/12/05 - O'Connor could return to pitch

    MARTIN O'Connor is considering exerting his influence directly on the pitch with a long-awaited Conference return tonight. The Kidderminster Harriers caretaker-boss admitted he is tempted to throw himself back into the fray following Monday's flat 1-1

  • Bromsgrove Rovers Football Club - Match Stats - 2005/2006

    GOALSCORERS 9 - Banner. 8 - Hadland. 6 - Barnes-Homer. 5 - Danks, Dyer. 4 - Porter. 3 - Curtis, Szewczyk. 2 - Smith, Ramsay. 1 - Collins, Johnson, Mitchell, Maguire, Geohaghan, Willetts. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 5 - Hadland 3 - Dyer

  • 30/12/05 - Jenkins falls at second hurdle

    LEDBURY'S Terry Jenkins missed out on a third round date with darts legend and defending Ladbrokes.com world champion Phil Taylor following his shock defeat on Tuesday. The world number 15 was outplayed by qualifier Andy Hamilton, who produced a brilliant

  • 30/12/05 - Action in West Midlands League

    ALTHOUGH most local football and all rugby has been curtailed over the holiday period, West Midlands League teams return to action tomorrow (Saturday) with a near full fixture list. In the premier division, improving Ledbury Town welcome Bewdley Town

  • 30/12/05 - QinetiQ team make top ten

    A TEAM from QinetiQn Malvern beat teams from Europe and America to make the top ten in the World Team Challenge, an adventure race in Florida. The international event, organised by Challenger World, pits corporate teams from some of the world's biggest

  • British workmen

    SIR - I have discovered where some of our money goes to. I saw seven "workmen" watching an eighth digging a hole in Mealcheapen Street today. E G TYLER, Worcester.

  • Moon and stars

    SIR - Regarding Worcester's Christmas lights, the moon and stars are far more beautiful and awe-inspiring than any man-made artificial lighting. They also come free of charge. GEORGE COWLEY, Warndon, Worcester.

  • EXHIBITIONS

    December How Far is it to Bethlehem? Nativity Creche from around the world in the Dean's Chapel, Worcester Cathedral.

  • It would be nice if they gave support

    SIR - As a loyal City fan who travels home and away for most games over a season, I would like to thank all involved at the Lane for the super shows they put on. But I was saddened to see that when I looked around the ground at the advertising boards,

  • Drinks industry should cough up

    SIR - I was wondering now the pubs can open 24 hours, will Alcoholics Anonymous also be round the clock? I think the Government should fund them with the extra money it will be getting from the drinks industry. JOHN SHEARON, Worcester.

  • CONCERTS

    MARCH 06 Great Witley Operatic Society Presents The Mikado at The Swan Theatre, Worcester.

  • THEATRE

    Until DECEMBER 31 Round the Horne A brand new show from the West End at Malvern Theatres. Until January 8 Peter Pan Malvern Theatres. Until JANUARY 28 The Blood Brothers The Multi Award Wining Musical at Malvern Theatres. Until JANUARY 29 Peter Pan Birmingham

  • Improving fitness of the community

    SIR - I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of the leisure centre users, clubs, associations and organisations who have supported their local public access sports and leisure centres during 2005. We have welcomed more than

  • Pump water made a cup of tea to savour

    IN August 1933 we set off to live in Malvern. After a considerable time without work, my father had been offered a job at the Abbey Hotel. Our small amount of furniture was piled into a van and, with no room for passengers, father, mother, brother Les

  • Pony went for a swim

    THE fire brigade had to perform an unusual rescue, as reported in the Malvern Gazette 25 years ago. They were called out to a house in Suckley to rescue a pony that had fallen in a private swimming pool. After eight-year-old Susie fell in, the family

  • PANTOMIMES

    Pantomimes and festive shows on local stages: Aladdin, January 12-14, 18-21 and 25-28, Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, Droitwich. Tel 01905 770154. Peter Pan with Ron Moody and Kasia Haddad, December 16 until January 8 - Malvern Festival Theatre, Tel 01684

  • A vaccine and a few green tunnels for me

    AS the season of goodwill descends and a page will shortly turn to welcome in the New Year, may I please ask our scientific institutions to apply their minds to solving two problems that are considerably troubling the British countryside. Can they make

  • Mowgli comes alive in Kipling's jungle drama

    IF you have overindulged in TV viewing this Christmas, Malvern Theatres is offering a chance for the whole family to enjoy a production of a classic tale live on stage. The Jungle Book will be performed by the Malvern Players and looks to be a perfect

  • Drama, music and comedy will open year at Courtyard

    COMEDY, music and drama are on offer at the Courtyard arts centre in Hereford. Tom McConville, singer and one of Britain's leading fiddle players, will perform on Thursday, January 5, at 8pm in the Studio theatre and tickets cost £5. The Courtyard Comedy

  • Bromsgrove Rovers fixtures and results 2005/2006

    HOME, away (Southern League Division One West fixtures unless stated) JULY Wed 13 KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS (friendly) 2-4 (Blakemore, Hadland). Sat 16 HEDNESFORD TOWN 0-3 (friendly). Tue 19 MOOR GREEN 0-1 (friendly). Sat 23 BRISTOL ROVERS 3-4 (friendly)

  • 30/12/05 - City boss intent on striker boost

    A STRIKER is at the top of Andy Preece's New Year wish-list. The Worcester City player-manager is working around the clock to add his latest recruit before tomorrow's Nationwide North clash at Hyde United (2pm). Preece has been frustrated in his bid to

  • Cadbury's offloads wines to up sweets

    CADBURY Schweppes, the world's largest confectionery manufacturer, said it was selling its US-based Holland House brand of cooking wines to the food maker Mizhan Americas for £21m. The maker of Dairy Milk chocolate and Dr Pepper drinks said the sale was

  • Consumer confidence hits a three-year low

    CONSUMER confidence has fallen to its lowest level for nearly three years as people continue to feel pessimistic about the economy, figures suggested. Research firm GfK NOP said its confidence index had fallen by one point to minus nine in December, its

  • Firms alerted to drink-drive staff

    WITH the introduction of 24-hour drinking, companies are being urged to beware of their employees driving under the influence of drink or drugs. The Royal Society For The Prevention Of Accidents has issued new guidelines to address the problem, particularly

  • Polo driver still very ill in hospital after crash

    THE driver of a Volkswagen Polo, injured when it was in collision with a Jeep Cherokee on the B4424 at Callow End, is still critical but stable in hospital. The man was travelling towards Upton-upon-Severn at 10.30pm on Friday, December 23, when he suffered

  • Call for Government to scrap district councils

    A LEADING councillor has said planned local government reform should see district authorities scrapped and said it was "nonsense" that counties should go instead. Worcestershire County Council Leader George Lord responded to a Government White Paper by

  • 30/12/05 - Brace for Mark Owen on return

    MALVERN Town remain in control at the top of the Harvey Travel World Midland Alliance after beating Herefordshire rivals Westfields 3-1 at the Langland Stadium on Boxing Day. MALVERN TOWN 3, WESTFIELDS 1 Striker Mark Owen marked his return from bronchitis

  • ROUND-UP: BOOZESTOCK 2005

    A TRIO of bands will be pulling out the stops in Worcester tonight as they take to the stage as part of an annual festive music festival. Cape of Good Hope, the Buck Brothers and Worcester's very own And What Will Be Left of Them? are all playing Boozestock

  • Strong Shayne's at the top

    AS revelations about his family's distinctively shady past continue to fill column inches, Shayne Ward is remaining remarkably resilient. Before the singer had even achieved his triumphant victory on the second series of The X Factor, we'd already learnt

  • You've got the right, so enjoy those hams

    THE new access rights, which finally came into force in October in the West Midlands, apply to 'mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common' - so many local walkers will be pleasantly surprised to discover that several riverside meadows between

  • PLACES TO VISIT

    Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham. Local history. Contact for opening times (01386 446944). Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove. Restored buildings including working windmill, agricultural buildings, industrial buildings

  • EXHIBITIONS

    December How Far is it to Bethlehem? Nativity Creche from around the world in the Dean's Chapel, Worcester Cathedral.

  • CONCERTS

    MARCH 06 Great Witley Operatic Society Presents The Mikado at The Swan Theatre, Worcester.

  • THEATRE

    Until DECEMBER 31 Round the Horne A brand new show from the West End at Malvern Theatres. Until January 8 Peter Pan Malvern Theatres. Until JANUARY 28 The Blood Brothers The Multi Award Wining Musical at Malvern Theatres. Until JANUARY 29 Peter Pan Birmingham

  • LIVE & KICKING: MUSIC, DRAMA AND DANCE

    THE Courtyard's new season is packed with an exciting range of events due to take place from New Year through to the end of March infrom its Hereford venue. Popular faces will return to the venue including music groups the Syd Lawrence Orchestra - with

  • Mowgli comes alive in Kipling's jungle drama

    IF you have overindulged in TV viewing this Christmas, Malvern Theatres is offering a chance for the whole family to enjoy a production of a classic tale live on stage. The Jungle Book will be performed by the Malvern Players and looks to be a perfect

  • Players stage Kipling's classic tale of jungle life

    THE story of a little boy adopted by animals in the Indian jungle is Malvern Theatre Players' latest production. Rudyard Kipling's classic The Jungle Book is at Malvern Theatres from Thursday to Saturday, January 12-21 The show is dedicated to JJ Smith