Bromsgrove Rovers FC's manager Jimmy Mullen admitted that he is giving serious thought to his future at the club after right hand man Bernard Mackie was sacked by the board last week. Chairman Tom Herbert informed assistant manager Mackie, a close personal
A COACH from Bromsgrove Cricket Club is hoping to tap into the new enthusiasm for the sport generated by the England's Ashes victory by holding coaching sessions at the Dolphin Centre. TAPPING INTO THE ASHES BUZZ: Jordan Rose and Tom Green are coaches
A FISH and chip shop owner from Worcester will swap potato chips for the plastic kind when he appears on a televised poker tournament with a first prize of $125,000 (about £72,000). Peter Djiallis, who runs Pete's Plaice, off Broadway Grove, St John's
THE design for a new bridge to be built in one of Worcester's most popular parks has been chosen and is now on display. The oak footbridge will cross the brook in Gheluvelt Park, off Barbourne Road, Barbourne, near to the tennis courts and meet the existing
WORK on a long-awaited £1.3m sports centre for Malvern will finally start in autumn 2006, it has been announced. Planners granted permission for the project at Dyson Perrins High School in Yates Hay Road in April this year and it was initially hoped work
WORCESTER is doing its bit to tackle global warming - by spending £1.1m on cleaning up emissions from the city's crematorium. The city council is buying equipment to slash carbon dioxide coming from the Astwood Road crematorium by half before 2012. It
A champion slimmer from Worcester who overcame obesity and lost 12 stone in two years is offering to help others who want to shed the pounds. Clayton Smith, aged 35, from Great House Road, St John's, is preparing to be a consultant for Slimming World
STUDENTS and teachers are returning to Nunnery Wood High School after the holidays with the news that it has been given a ringing endorsement by inspectors. The school, in Spetchley Road, Worcester, was given the second highest rating out of four. The
BUDDING photographers are being invited to submit their snaps for inclusion in a new calendar for the Worcestershire Women's Institute. The publication for 2007 will have the theme of Water in Worcestershire and members are urged to submit their images
THIS blind dog is in desperate need of a loving home and a fresh start for the new year. George was discovered wandering the streets of Worcester in a distressed state, but despite September's appeal in the Worcester News to find him a home, he is still
Bromsgrove Rovers 6 Cinderford Town 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. Christmas
JOHN Brain has apologised to fans after Worcester Warriors slumped to a third consecutive defeat -- but he is refusing to criticise the effort of his players. The director of rugby was delighted that an army of fans made the 500-mile round-trip to New-castle
A COUPLE were brutally attacked as they walked home from a new year's eve party. The man and woman were walking through Arrow Valley Park and had just turned into Huntingdon Close in Matchborough at about 1.30am when they were set upon by two youths.
Film review: Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (UGC Rubery). THIS doesn't try to be something it's not, providing enjoyment for all the family, and a film parents won't actually mind taking their children to see this holiday. Perfect release from this seasons onslaught
NOTHING can compensate for the loss of a child. The agony of bereavement is all the more acute when a youngster meets with premature death, for those who are left behind are stricken with a particularly cruel form of grief - one which is compounded by
AMID controversy over the future of Redditch's Alexandra Hospital, orthopaedic patients are set to benefit from a new unit which opened its doors yesterday. The new purpose-built Redditch Orthopaedic Centre (ROC) comes hot on the heels of other improvements
DARTS: COLIN Watton proved the star man when he bagged the Bob Hill Individuals Trophy. Watton, who plays for the Black Horse, beat the Batchley Club's Dave Thomas 2-0 in the final, the culmination of an evening of excellent darts at the Centrepoint Club
PATIENTS and staff at Redditch's Alexandra Hospital are joining in birthday celebrations for Hospital Radio Pulse at the end of its 5th year of broadcasting. The station, which serves patients, visitors and staff at the hospital, has rounded off a hectic
MEMBERS of Redditch Council are set to join another campaign to fight cost-cutting plans for health services in the town - this time to defend mental health services. Councillors recently discussed proposals to redesign Acute and Day Hospital Mental Health
Wednesday, January 4 Peter Pan, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street. Until January 29. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com The Wizard of Oz, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Broad Street. Until January 21. Tickets on 0121 236 4455 or
STUDLEY eased their relegation worries with a six-point haul from their festive campaign. The Bees bagged back-to-back home wins over Stratford Town and Leamington only to suffer a 4-1 defeat at Barwell. But boss Kevin Rowlands is delighted with the return
GUARANTEED to be an unforgettable night of entertainment, Good Company presents its premiere production of The Snow Queen at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre. Starring Shirley Anne Field as the Snow Queen, and Claire Wilkie and Sam Bloom, among others,
A GROUP of Redditch youngsters had cause to celebrate when their on the field success was rewarded with a new sponsorship deal. The team, from Headless Cross, have been bought a new training kit by Prudden Road Surfaces whose boss Lee Prudden was on hand
BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackie has been sacked but Jimmy Mullen will remain as the club's boss. Rovers' chairman Tom Herbert said he had been forced to sack Mackie because of the club's financial position. He said: "Jimmy Mullen has
CERTIFICATES and medals were handed out as youngsters sharpened their football skills over the festive period. A large number of children aged from five to 15 took part in three fun-packed Worcester City soccer schools held at Bishop Perowne High School
WESTFIELDS started the new year where they left 2005 -- with another disappointing defeat. The Hereford side were reduced to 10 men and then conceded a late penalty at Causeway United as they lost a big relegation dogfight 1-0. Second-from-bottom Westfields
THE BMW name will return to the British Touring Car Championship after privateer racer Martyn Bell concluded a deal to race next season. Bell, a veteran BMW racer, will drive the car which powered Dirk Muller to second place in the world championship.
ONE of the few chief constables to speak out publicly against the amalgamation of police forces is Paul West of West Mercia. Surely more chief officers see the folly of the propositions. West Mercia was formed in 1967 under the then amalgamations which
Moor Green 2 Redditch United 1 IT HAS been a blue Christmas for the Reds with nothing to show from their festive fixtures. Caretaker manager Gary Whild must have been delighted by the battling qualities shown by his players but it is points that are needed
FOLLOWING a flurry of complaints regarding the constant failure of street lighting in the Appletrees Crescent, Grange Park, Bromsgrove, and some of the smaller roads off, I contacted the developers via the Highways Partnership. Apparently the roads on
Bromsgrove Rovers FC's manager Jimmy Mullen admitted that he is giving serious thought to his future at the club after right hand man Bernard Mackie was sacked by the board last week. Chairman Tom Herbert informed assistant manager Mackie, a close personal
Stourport Swifts 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 1 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney WAYNE Dyer bagged an equaliser to make sure battling Bromsgrove Rovers completed their festive fixtures unbeaten on Bank Holiday Monday. Midfield maestro Dyer's
Bromsgrove Rovers 6 Cinderford Town 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. Christmas
BARNT Green ended a hectic seasonal Christmas list on a high by defeating Shifnal 1-0 in the Midland Combination Premier Division on Monday, January 2. Victory meant that Spartak won two out of their three matches over Christmas, defeating Alveston 3-
ONE of the few chief constables to speak out publicly against the amalgamation of police forces is Paul West of West Mercia. Surely more chief officers see the folly of the propositions. West Mercia was formed in 1967 under the then amalgamations which
SHORTLY before Christmas we sang carols outside Waitrose store in Droitwich and I would like to say thank you to the shoppers for their generosity - and trust they were reminded of the real meaning of Christmas. Several of our church choir had also been
AS another parent who challenged WH Smith's earlier last year about its Playboy range, I firstly write to thank the women who took the time to raise the issue in the local press and, secondly, to express my sadness at seeing another parent's ( Helen Crompton
I RECENTLY read that we are to get wheelie bins this year. Your Bromsgrove readers' letters and those from Worcester to their local paper all angrily tell of wheelie bins failure. So why is it our district councillors are set on the same road to ridicule
WITH reference to the photograph and article on page five of the Advertiser/Messenger on December 21 entitled 'Lucky escape for Spa motorist.' These pictures were taken in my presence only a few feet from the photographer. Being the vehicle driver and
THE current pantomime at Birmingham's Hippodrome Theatre, Peter Pan, is all about fairies, fantasy and fun, and for the third year running the theatre has joined with Birmingham Children's Hospital so that patients and their families can enjoy their very
CHRISTMAS and the new year celebrations are now behind us b ut there is still plenty of excitment in the offing at the many theatres around the regions - here in Bromsgrove and Droitwich, or further afield ar Redditch, Kidderminster, Worcester and Birmingham
I CANNOT put a finger on why our performances over the Christmas and new year period were so up and down. I could not be happier with the way we played against Stafford Rangers. We ran the league leaders close in both games and probably deserved to win
SIR - I do hope that people have recycled all the waste paper from Christmas presents. Millions of trees must not have been felled in vain. JIM STOTE, Worcester.
SIR - "Thirty pounds off council tax" if West Mercia Police join West Midlands. This is the same amount the council taxpayers now give extra to the police force for more police. If the merger takes place, the first thing that will happen is that as the
BBC Gardeners World Live 2006 will return to the NEC in Birmingham from June 14-18. The event is set to grow even bigger and better than last year with five days packed full of great inspiration, entertainment, plants and more.
SIR - Central Trains recently shut down services one Sunday due to a shortage of drivers. What an absolute disgrace. Are they running the trains for the convenience of the driver or for the paying public? I think they should lose their franchises straight
SIR - It is sad that residential wardens at Old People's sheltered accommodation blocks are being done away with. In the 1980s, I lived in a flat in Keswick Drive. The two female wardens, first Chris then Daphne, became real pals. By living close to the
THE president Barbara Maskell welcomed members to the December meeting. She thanked Christine Kendrick and her birthday committee for a wonderful evening of entertainment in November. Forthcoming events were announced including the lunch club on Wednesday
LITTLE Jude Evans could have a special helmet made to re-shape his head, thanks to an article in the Advertiser/Messenger. The six-month-old baby, from Royal Worcester Crescent, The Oakalls, has an appointment later this month and may wear a plastic helmet
THERE was a bloomin' marvellous day at a Frankley school when children took part in a hyacinth festival. Last October children at Holly Hill School, in New Street, had the chance to buy a bulb and pot, for £1, and plant it at school, before taking it
ARTISTIC youngsters at a town school are having their pictures turned into Christmas cards. Joseph Evans, aged five, Lucy Sapwell, eight, and Georgie McKeon, five, from St Peter's RC First School, won a contest run by Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings
WORCESTERSHIRE County Council has decided there is little to suggest Bromsgrove residents do not get value for money on highways issues. The council's overview and scrutiny steering committee (OSSC) investigated Bromsgrove's Highways Partnership Unit
POLICE are urging victims of domestic violence not to suffer in silence. At this time of year incidents of domestic violence traditionally increase, fuelled by family tensions, alcohol and money worries. Sgt Jim Mulligan, from north Worcestershire police's
WITH such a great beginning, I had high hopes for this show but alas, I was fooled, and it rapidly went downhill to become another run-of-the-mill evening's entertainment. Opening with classics I Got You Under My Skin and The Lady Is A Tramp, the 15-piece
AFTER a year which saw hunt supporters across the area fearing for their way of life with the introduction of the Hunting Act, many saw in 2006 on a more positive note following an end of year act of defiance. Hundreds of supporters lined the streets
AS the construction sector continues to thrive with both increased confidence and strong order books, Bromsgrove builder Weaver PLC is reporting healthy half-year results. Turnover for the six months to the end of September was £17m. This was achieved
THOUSANDS of patients recovering from broken bones, awaiting hip and knee replacements or in need of other orthopaedic treatment will benefit from a new purpose-built unit at the Alexandra Hospital. The Redditch Orthopaedic Centre (ROC) opened its doors
DROITWICH Spa's cricket hero Ashley Giles topped off a great year by being awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours List. Warwickshire spin bowler Ashley Giles, who helped guide the England team to a historic 2-1 victory over Australia to win the Ashes
A DROITWICH Spa shopping centre is set to lose three popular stores under new plans to redevelop the site. A Forrest-Hay Jewellers, Facets Restaurant and Droitwich Hardware have all been given notice to vacate their premises in Salters Shopping Centre
A GROUP determined to protect the heritage of Droitwich Spa Lido is calling on residents to once again have their say on future proposals while there is still a chance. The call, from the Friends of Droitwich Spa Lido and Its Park, comes before the latest
KIND-hearted children at St Bede's Middle School hit the right note when they held a playground busk for charity. Year Eight students played carols during break-times before the end of term and collected more than £50 for the CAFOD Appeal. CAFOD is a
CONTROVERSIAL plans to create six new football pitches in the grounds of Redditch United - which were withdrawn in the autumn - have been resubmitted. The football club wants the town council's planning committee to consider its proposal to build the
Tenbury United 1 Ellesmere 3 A DUBIOUS penalty decision and a free-kick inside the area for handling a back-pass cost United any reward from their West Midlands League Division 1 game against high-riding Ellesmere at Palmer's Meadow. Without these two
A SECOND town centre takeaway was likely to be granted a late licence, despite objections from police. Members of Redditch Council's licensing sub-committee were last night due to decide whether to allow the Britannia Fish Bar on Unicorn Hill to extend
CUTBACKS could be made to vital services in Worcestershire such as social care, libraries and road maintenance in an effort to save £10 million. The county council could be forced to scale back some of its key services despite a proposed council tax increase
MATCHBOROUGH residents are celebrating after a long-running battle to get a path in the area came to an end. Groups can look forward to safe passage down Breaches Lane, thanks to long-awaited borough council improvements. The path runs from Ashorne Close
VILLAGERS in Cookhill and Studley celebrated a brighter Christmas this year thanks to electricity distribution company Central Networks. Parish council officials in Studley received a £2,500 grant from the company, which is part of E.ON UK, to place lights
A FECKENHAM youngster who is battling back after the removal of a brain tumour was guest of honour at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital where she cut the ribbon on a new £150,000 radiotherapy unit. Frances Wormington, eight, has just undergone her
THERE will be some spooky goings-on at Redditch Library on Saturday as it celebrates its new extended opening hours. From 3.30-5.30pm, author Anne Bradford will be sharing some tales from her new book, Ghosts, Murders and Scandals of Worcestershire, and
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)
STEVEN Falk, senior keeper of natural history in Warwickshire, gave a fascinating illustrated talk on Warwickshire Landscapes and Wildlife at the November meeting. Mr Falk is known to many members as a judge in the ACS Wildlife Garden Competition and
THE December meeting had a decidedly festive air with mince pies and wine on offer after the speaker, George Hook, entertained with his amusing and knowledgeable talk on mother of pearl. Mr Hook's company in Birmingham has been in his family since 1824
AS it was the Christmas meeting, members enjoyed an informal social time together. The customary Bring and Share Supper was a great success and members appreciated the brainteasers prepared by Marion Cargill and Wendy Elmes. Business was kept to a minimum
THE December meeting was opened by newly elected president Georgia Jacobs. There was a minute's silence for national chairman Barbara Gill, who recently died. After business, the evening's entertainment was provided by husband-and-wife team Ken and Toni
ASTON FIELDS rider Joseph Rowe maintained his excellent form by coming third at the National Trophy Cyclo-Cross series. Rowe, who rides for Wyre Forest CC, finished fifth in the final round in Abergavenny to ensure that third place in the series overall
MEMBERS were welcomed to the November meeting by newly elected president Netta Pearson and were reminded of the group carol service at Alvechurch on December 14. Irene Purslow's light-hearted talk and slide show, Fun With Famous Faces, cheered up a cold
AT the December meeting, members were treated to an evening of music from the local area. Member Richard Churchley performed songs from Worcestershire and Warwickshire, as well as one from the Black Country in appropriate dialect. As both a performer
THE December meeting wouldn't be the same without a glass of Trixie and Pat's homemade mulled wine and there it was to welcome members again this year. New president Janet was in fine voice as she greeted everyone and added to the Christmas mood by reading
PRESIDENT Sheila Girvan inducted a new member, Val Bayliss, into the club at the recent meeting. After business, members were instructed in the art of making Christmas crackers by immediate past president Margaret Hood. She gave everyone a DIY kit and
THE society recently held its annual print and slide competitions, which showcase the best of members' work. The competition was well attended, with a record number of prints, and was judged by Peter Young, who provided constructive comments on all the
IT was pleasing to see so many members at the last club meeting because the whole evening was particularly enjoyable, probably because it had such variety and everyone had an opportunity to speak. One particular aspect of speaking in public is to "time
THE national steel strike over a 17 per cent wage demand was labelled a 'national disaster' by the managing director of Bromsgrove's biggest employer. Dr Don Reilly, from Garringtons, feared the strike would damage the company's trade and reputation,
WORCESTERSHIRE Hounds met in front of Hewell Hall, by special request from the Earl and Countess of Plymouth. A large field was entertained with refreshments before taking cover. In the evening a servants ball was held, concluding a week of festivities
KIND-hearted residents are needed to help out at a Redditch care home. Bowood Mews Nursing Home is looking for people to spend a few hours of their spare time with its residents. The Hewell Road home has 34 residents with dementia, most of whom are over
STICK skills will be on show in middle schools around the town this month, thanks to hockey sessions run by Redditch Council. Action Sports, the council's sport development unit, has teamed up with Redditch Hockey Club to promote hockey, providing top
A COUNTY council grant recently enabled a group of 40 young people from Wythall to scale new heights. The money allowed the 11 to 16-year-olds to spend a weekend at the Pioneer outdoor pursuits centre near Kidderminster. The group, called "Distin-ctive
STAFF at Redditch Magistrates Court hit the picket line in an ongoing dispute over pay. Fifteen of the 20 workers at the Grove Street court did not turn in for work on the Tuesday before Christmas. The strike, the first the 800-year history of British
YOUNGSTERS at Tardebigge First School have brightened up the school with the help of a visiting artist. Children were asked to produce drawings based on the school logo, which features Tardebigge Church, the school a rainbow and children. Sara Welsh,
TRAVELLER Edwin Shore will give a talk to guests and members of the Redditch Society this Friday. The talk, entitled Taking my Car and Caravan Overland to India, takes place at Trinity High School from 7.30pm. Admission costs £3 for visitors and membership
PEOPLE can give blood at Alvechurch Baptist Church Hall in Red Lion Street, Alvechurch, from 1- 3.45pm and 5-7.15pm tomorrow.
STUDENTS at Studley High School were in 007 heaven when a James Bond-style Aston Martin cruised up the drive. It was all part of their GCSE engineering studies, and 15-year-old Stuart Thomason was one of the fortunate ones to get his hands on the prestigious
AN Alcester resident and former member of the town's Court Leet has hit out at neighbours who - he claims - are responsible for putting the Farmers' Market at risk. Maurice Abney-Hastings contacted the Chronicle after last week's story, a call from Alcester
ALCESTER children, along with youngsters across the county, could lose out on vital services due to massive hikes in legal fees. Warwickshire County Council has slammed the Government over a 400 per cent increase in the cost of hearings seeking orders
Gas shutdown FEARS were raised that factories could be forced to shut as the gas dispute between Russia and Ukraine deepened. Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks has admitted that UK supplies could be hit, although officials insisted there was still "no immediate
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 Product-ions Ltd. The Tenbury Wells firm has a contract worth more than a
ANGER and disgust has enveloped Worcester and old painful wounds reopened as word spread that triple child murderer David McGreavy could be released. The killer of three young children in April 1973 has been let out of jail unsupervised for regular jaunts
THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for charity in memory of a popular Worcestershire nurse who was awarded an MBE for her services to nursing. Following the death of Deseree Green, who was known as Desi, in September from cancer at the age of 60, members
A LIFE-saving hovercraft financed in memory of a Worcester schoolgirl who drowned during a trip to the seaside has saved an Evesham man trapped in treacherous mud. In its first rescue of the new year, The Spirit of Lelaina flew to the scene at Brean,
Wednesday, January 4 Peter Pan, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street. Until January 29. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com The Wizard of Oz, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Broad Street. Until January 21. Tickets on 0121 236 4455 or
GUARANTEED to be an unforgettable night of entertainment, Good Company presents its premiere production of The Snow Queen at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre. Starring Shirley Anne Field as the Snow Queen, and Claire Wilkie and Sam Bloom, among others,
THE Tardebigge pub will host a charity gig to help schoolchildren in Sierra Leone this weekend featuring a selection of local musicians to impress the crowds. The concert will be headlined by former Dodgy frontman Nigel Clark, who returns to Redditch
THE current pantomime at Birmingham's Hippodrome Theatre, Peter Pan, is all about fairies, fantasy and fun, and for the third year running the theatre has joined with Birmingham Children's Hospital so that patients and their families can enjoy their very
CHRISTMAS and the new year celebrations are now behind us b ut there is still plenty of excitment in the offing at the many theatres around the regions - here in Bromsgrove and Droitwich, or further afield ar Redditch, Kidderminster, Worcester and Birmingham
BBC Gardeners World Live 2006 will return to the NEC in Birmingham from June 14-18. The event is set to grow even bigger and better than last year with five days packed full of great inspiration, entertainment, plants and more.
Stourport Swifts 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 1 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney WAYNE Dyer bagged an equaliser to make sure battling Bromsgrove Rovers completed their festive fixtures unbeaten on Bank Holiday Monday. Midfield maestro Dyer's
WATER bubbled up from a footpath and poured down a village street for about 30 hours while a water company denied responsibility for mending the leak. Angry resident Mike Lewis, of Jacomb Drive, Lower Broadheath, first noticed water running down his road
RESIDENTS in Wychavon are being urged to have their say on how open space, sport and recreation facilities in the district can be best used. Wychavon District Council has appointed specialist leisure consultants PMP to carry out the study so any improvements
Stourport Swifts 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 1 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney WAYNE Dyer bagged an equaliser to make sure battling Bromsgrove Rovers completed their festive fixtures unbeaten on Bank Holiday Monday. Midfield maestro Dyer's
Bromsgrove Rovers 3 Clevedon Town 0 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney ROVERS' players showed their support for former assistant manager Bernard Mackie by defeating table topping Clevedon Town and recorded their most important result
Bromsgrove Rovers FC's manager Jimmy Mullen admitted that he is giving serious thought to his future at the club after right hand man Bernard Mackie was sacked by the board last week. Chairman Tom Herbert informed assistant manager Mackie, a close personal
BROMSGROVE Rovers' chairman Tom Herbert has given manager Jimmy Mullen his full support, but has demanded a dramatic improvement in results to enhance the team's promotion hopes in the second half of the season. Herbert still remains upbeat that Rovers
AMERICAN FOOTBALL: REDDITCH Arrows have secured their first sponsorship deal of 2006 after securing the backing of Worcester company Hydro Aluminium Worcester Ltd (HAW). The firm was attracted by the option of a 'Game Day Sponsorship' package with the
STUDLEY darts ace Andy Smith is hoping for a repeat performance in 2006 - another dazzling year at the oche. The lumberjack rounded off 2005 by securing a place in the PDC World Darts Championships at the famous Circus Tavern in Purfleet. Smith, known
KINGS Norton return to league action on Saturday with a match against basement side Handsworth at Ash Lane (ko 2.30pm). And it will be a special day for the Hopwood club as the match will be dedicated to former president David Phillips who died last month
A DISABLED Hollywood man has controversially spoken in favour of proposals to downgrade the Alexandra Hospital. Paul Chambers claims his experiences at the Alex have been so bad that he thinks health chiefs should close the hospital altogether. "I am
THE battle to save the Alexandra Hospital from being downgraded will be stepped up this Saturday when a protest march takes place through Redditch town centre. Hundreds of residents are expected to show their strength of feeling towards to proposed cutback
Wednesday, January 4 THEATRE: Little Red Riding Hood, The Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove. SOCIAL: Live Wyres for Social Singles. Meeting at the New Inn, Ombersley Road, Worcester (approx. 8.45pm). Thursday, January 5 MUSIC: Iron On Maiden + Skandal.
Moor Green 2 Redditch United 1 IT HAS been a blue Christmas for the Reds with nothing to show from their festive fixtures. Caretaker manager Gary Whild must have been delighted by the battling qualities shown by his players but it is points that are needed
ALVECHURCH manager Shaun Cunnington hopes Lye Meadow will become a fortress over the next few weeks. The Midland Alliance strugglers face six home matches this month starting with games against Loughborough Dynamo on Saturday and Chasetown on Tuesday,
IF Feckenham can continue their impressive run into the new year, manager Lee Adams will be a happy man. The Millers have won an incredible ten of their last 11 games and they even managed to draw the other! Feckenham's festive treble saw another three
A NEW year to look forward to, and a new season at the Malvern Theatres. January will bring a new selection of theatre, film, music and dance, starting with Shared Experience's production of Jane Eyre. This is set to be followed by other dramas following
THE Tardebigge pub will host a charity gig to help schoolchildren in Sierra Leone this weekend featuring a selection of local musicians to impress the crowds. The concert will be headlined by former Dodgy frontman Nigel Clark, who returns to Redditch
BRINGING a raucous treat to audiences, Kevin Montgomery & the Road Trippers play at Wolverhampton Little Civic on Tuesday. Featuring Robert Reynolds, Paul Deakin and Mike McAdam, plus support from Jill Jackson, fans can enjoy the usual impressive
JOHN Brain has apologised to fans after Worcester Warriors slumped to a third consecutive defeat -- but he is refusing to criticise the effort of his players. The director of rugby was delighted that an army of fans made the 500-mile round-trip to New-castle
SELFLESS striker Adam Webster is hopeful of shooting Worcester City out of trouble. Webster celebrated collecting the Nationwide North top player award for November by scoring a crucial second-half equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Stafford Rangers on Monday
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers skipper Mark Jackson is on the wanted list of Conference rivals York City. Managerless Harriers have fielded an enquiry from York boss Billy McEwan about the 28-year-old centre-half who has only missed one game for the club this
CRICKET: Cookley start their indoor nets at Stourport Leisure Centre this weekend. They begin on January 8 and then run every Sunday until April 16, apart from February 12. There will be two nets, one with a bowling machine which can deliver balls at
GARY Whild has started to rebuild his struggling Redditch side ahead of their relegation battle. The Reds boss saw Matty Clarke and Scott Rickards quit the club before Christmas, leaving him with the bare minimum over the festive fixtures - he was able
I WOULD like to express my thanks to the staff of the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch where I recently underwent surgery for breast cancer. I cannot praise the surgeon, Mr. Brown, and his team, enough for the care and treatment I received before and after
ON December 17 Wythall Animal Sanctuary representatives were collecting outside ASDA in Bromsgrove. The amount of £570.23 was donated, along with four large trolley loads of petfood. Our grateful thanks to the store and their very generous customers.
IN response to the letter from reader Mrs Millinchip of Catshill (collection of recycling boxes) I must say I sympathise with householders who co-operate magnificently to make the recycling service the success it has become; with Bromsgrove's performance
Alcester President's XV 5 Alcester Chairman's XV 0 THE Boxing Day honours went the way of the President's side who narrowly took the spoils at the end of a hard-fought entertaining game. Club captain Nick O'Connor took charge of the Chairman's side for
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers skipper Mark Jackson is on the wanted list of Conference rivals York City. Managerless Harriers have fielded an enquiry from York boss Billy McEwan about the 28-year-old centre-half who has only missed one game for the club this
FAIRFIELD Villa recovered from a crushing defeat against Littleton to end their Christmas and New Year fixtures in the Midland Combination Division One on a high. Villa endured a nightmare start to their Christmas fixtures on December 27 when they were
GOALSCORERS 10 - Hadland. 9 - Banner. 6 - Barnes-Homer, Dyer 5 - Danks. 4 - Porter. 3 - Curtis, Szewczyk. 2 - Smith, Ramsay, Johnson 1 - Collins, Mitchell, Maguire, Geohaghan, Willetts. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 5 - Hadland 3 - Dyer
A BIG-hearted DJ is depriving himself of sleep for five days in a bid to establish a new world record in aid of charity. Stephen Smith, also known as DJ Smithy, is banking on his fellow regulars at the Tally Ho, in Broadheath, near Tenbury Wells, to help
SIR - On behalf of many people, may I take advantage of your excellent paper to thank all the traders in St John's village, the doctors, the dentist, the chemists and our library staff for their ever warm welcome and service above that expected. A happy
SIR - It's a bit rich for Peter Luff to complain of possible gas shortages this winter. After all, it was the Conservative government that denationalised the gas industry on the basis that it could be run better by the private sector. Does Mr Luff now
SIR - As a member of the Worcester Twinning committee I have, naturally, been very interested in the correspondence on the lack of twinning signs. Month after month this item is on the agenda for our meetings where some county and city councillors, and
A UNIQUE selection of creative classes and workshops for all ages in anything from tap dancing to stage fighting for adults and kids has been put together by the Artrix. The Bromsgrove arts complex is launching weekly classes in flamenco, jazz, street
As usual the president conducted the business for the evening, including the fact that following the sale of WI House in Worcester the HQ for the Worcestershire WI Federation had now moved to Hallow. It was also reported that our skittles team had played
SIR - it is quite unacceptable that Worcester City Council is threatening members of the public with £1,000 fines over recycling. Although widely publicised, this scheme, designed to enable the council to meet targets and avoid fines, could be seen as
Our President Shirley opened our December meeting by warmly welcoming members and visitors from other institutes to our 2005 Christmas party. Mindful of the importance of our celebrations, Maggie skipped efficiently through the business of the minutes
THE Bromsgrove and District Canine Society (ringcraft section) finished its 70th anniversary year with a Christmas match meeting against the ringcraft club from Pershore. Our judge for the evening was Peter Schoneville, a gundog championship show judge
The Christmas meeting of Lickey WI was held at the parish hall. Members had enjoyed a coffee morning at the home of Mary Rollason during November. The skittles team had been successful in its first match of the county skittles tournament. Members donated
SIR - We must give credit where it is due and highly praise the landlady at the Mayflower pub at Dines Green who kindly put on a free Christmas lunch for numerous pensioners. Della the landlady has a great personality and is very popular. I honestly think
Our members were certainly in festive spirit for our December meeting. Having given us all a glass of sherry, Jenny Marsh welcomed everyone and told us about the various roles committee members would be taking on for the next 12 months. Anne Ballard gave
SIR - One morning recently, I was driving into Worcester city centre from Lower Wick along Bromwich Road, following a mobile speed camera van. I drove at a constant 30mph and was amazed to see the speed camera van disappearing into the distance in front
JENNIFER JONES was just 19 when she died of bone cancer last summer. Now friends of the Blackwell teenager are determined she won't be forgotten and aim to raise cash for a cancer charity in her memory. School friend Abbie Southall, of Fulton Close, Harwood
LICKEY and Blackwell Parish Council is going on line. The new website, designed by Kevin Lucas of Creataweb, can be accessed at www.lickeyandblackwellpc.org The site features minutes and agendas from parish council meetings, news from the parish and information
AN intrepid Bromsgrove police officer is trekking to the North Pole to raise cash to help sick children. PC Darren Ariss will be competing in the Polar Challenge in April. He hopes to raise £20,000 for the Society of Parents of Children with Cancer. Darren
A BROMSGROVE headteacher said a final farewell after 11 years at her school. Lesley Leigh, head at Sidemoor First School in Broad Street, retired just before Christmas. Pupils presented her with a special picture of Inkberrow Church - her home village
A VILLAGE school is celebrating after coming top of the class in its Ofsted report. The report said Stoke Prior First School, in Ryefields Road, is a very welcoming community that highly valued the contribution of each pupil and adult. Educational standards
A TALENTED stained glass artist-craftsman, who despatched work from his Bromsgrove workshop to grace religious buildings both here and abroad, is featured in a new book. The Stained Glass Windows of AJ Davies of the Bromsgrove Guild Worcestershire is
A DRIVER escaped with minor injuries after losing control of her car. The accident occurred just before 9am last Friday on the A448 Kidderminster to Bromsgrove road after the black Peugeot 206 skidded in wet conditions. An ambulance crew attended, and
A WOMAN who works tirelessly behind the scenes as its chairman and as a driving force in the continued success of the Bromsgrove Festival has had her hard work recognised by being awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours for her services to music. Retired
THE Rotary Club of Bromsgrove is offering one young person the experience of a lifetime - the chance to study in the USA. Youngsters, who must live in Bromsgrove, are being invited to apply for a scholarship sponsored by the club to undertake a short
TWO Bromsgrove men, jailed for taking part in a plot to smuggle millions of pounds worth of cannabis and cocaine into the UK, have appealed against their convictions at London's Court of Appeal. Carl Platten, of McConnell Close, Aston Fields, Bromsgrove
WOMEN with mental illnesses or severe personality disorders are still being admitted to prison, according to a report on Brockhill jail. The Independent Monitoring Board's annual report on the Tardebigge's women's prison said that it is an inappropriate
COUNTY council bosses are star struck after their authority achieved top ratings in a national assessment. Worcestershire County Council is one of only three West Midland authorities to be awarded the top score of four-stars by the Government's independent
THE mother of an 18-year-old boy has made a heartfelt appeal following an attack on her son which left him unconscious and on a ventilator in a Birmingham hospital. The attack took place on Thursday, December 22, at about 10pm in New Road, Rubery, in
A DROITWICH Spa family is still coming to terms with the road crash which left them without two loved ones just days before Christmas. Family members have paid tribute to both David Haines, aged 35, from Drovers Way, and 44-year-old Malcolm Ward, from
STREET beggars are causing a nuisance to shoppers and intimidating residents on the Westlands estate. There have been calls for them to be moved on from the precinct area because many believe they are intimidating to visitors, as well as other residents
REDDITCH'S second AIR Festival will be more low-key than last year's big budget extravaganza, with an emphasis on community-based arts activities rather than high-profile music stars. According to Redditch Council's director of cultural development, Paul
THE prospect of another takeaway in Studley Road, Lodge Park, is concerning residents who believe it will result in even more antisocial behaviour and litter. Developers have applied to Redditch Council to build a retail development on the site of the
TOP-flight staff at a Redditch veterinary centre will be treated to a balloon ride after being crowned pet health check champions. Vets at Southcrest Veterinary Centre in Mount Pleasant will enjoy the flight as a special gift for completing more than
MANY people will have overindulged this Christmas, so a charity which helps hundreds of Redditch people each year is offering a way of making amends in the new year. For anyone planning to give up alcohol for a month or longer as a part of their 2006
A DECISION to reduce the council tax subsidy on second homes in south Warwickshire has been welcomed by a Studley councillor. Liberal Democrat leader Hazel Wright, who represents Studley on Stratford District Council, said it has taken two years for the
FOOD for Thought was the title of a fascinating talk by Hector Sutherland. Mr Sutherland described life in Elizabethan England, with particular reference to Elizabeth I's stay at Charlecote Park in 1572. He explained how the monarch and her 400-strong
AT the November meeting, members enjoyed a skittles evening at The Swan in Studley. The trophy was won by Thelma Woollerton. Judy Horner won the raffle.
A DROITWICH business is hoping to entice thousands of amateur golfers from around the country to take part in a brand new tournament. TOURNAMENT TO BE PROUD OF: Peter Fisher is the mastermind of the Uro Golf Super 12 Championship. Droitwich based URO
THE association has just completed a successful first year and the committee would like to thank all members for their support and contribution. A new programme of speakers and events gets under way at 7.30pm on Monday, January 9 at Cookhill Village Hall
DROITWICH Print came from behind to draw 5-5 with Arrowvale A in the Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis League Division One. Mick Kendall won three matches for Arrowvale, while John Exton and Bob Watts bagged a win each. Tony Birch and Trevor Simmons
THE first meeting of 2006 is tonight at the village hall when an extended concert at the end of the programme will feature Stuart Derry, of Cranes Music, Worcester, who will be demonstrating the recently launched Yamaha Tyros 2. Those who have attended
A PAIR of budding martial arts masters from Bromsgrove earned their black belts in a self-defence style invented in Worcestershire in December. Jack Simspon and Michael Woods joined hundreds from across the West Midlands to earn their belts at the British
IT'S all change at the top as the president, secretary and treasurer are all standing down after three years, six years and 33 years respectively. The year ahead sees Menai Watkins in the hot seat. In the coming month, a new secretary and treasurer will
CHAIRMAN Jenny Johnson warmly welcomed members to the November meeting. A most interesting hobbies and activities evening was held which included the many talents, skills and interests of members. These were displayed and demonstrated including splitcane
MEMBERS celebrated the December meeting with Mr and Mrs Day, who entertained with tales and songs of a Victorian Christmas. This was followed by a visit from Father Christmas and supper.
ON November 29, Sue Wright spent the evening showing how to make greetings cards. She had a lovely selection of birthday and Christmas cards as samples. Under Sue's guidance, all members went home with an attractive card, each made by their own fair hands
THE November meeting was the AGM and Doreen Jeeves was the visiting WIA, who was present to oversee the election of the committee for 2005/6. There were some business items to deal with first, including arrangements for the trip to Chester. Maureen Furnell
FORMER Bromsgrove police sergeant, Detective Superintendent TN Williams, was awarded the MBE in the New Years Honours List for his service as head of Worcestershire Constabulary's Criminal Investigation Department. He received 30 commendations from the
SELFLESS striker Adam Webster is hopeful of shooting Worcester City out of trouble. Webster celebrated collecting the Nationwide North top player award for November by scoring a crucial second-half equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Stafford Rangers on Monday
ASPIRING artists in Wythall will have the chance to be taught by a master in a series of workshops this month. Wythall Library is offering Saturday sessions to teach 12-16-year-olds about creating graphic novels or comic strips. Named Manga Mania after
A GRUELLING round of 80 press-ups in one minute kicked off the day NEW College students spent with members of the Royal Marines. Pupils on the Uniformed Public Services course were given the chance to find out more about life in the Marines when two Commandos
OFSTED: Inspectors give Nunnery Wood High School outstanding report
A STUDLEY school recently saw the official opening of its revamped entrance area. The new area, along with other improvements at St Mary's C of E Junior School, were celebrated in an official ceremony. The Rev Richard Deimel, vicar for the school, said
AN ancient tradition was revived as members of Alcester Court Leet tested a new beer. The medieval body's two Ale Tasters tried out a new brew, made by local company Purity Brewing. They joined High Bailiff Peter Carr and Teej Deffley from the Holly Bush
A GROUP of Brownies have helped brighten up the town's library with their art work. Girls from 3rd Alcester Brownies made a collage for one of the library's display boards, choosing the theme of autumn for their work. Brown Owl Stephanie Jackson said
THE brains behind a new fast-food venture in Worcester are aiming to turn up the heat during the cold weather - by selling hot milkshakes. The Shake Shack, which opened on The Cross in October, sells 150 varieties of milkshake made of practically any
WORCESTER mayor Aubrey Tarbuck thought he smelled a rat when he was driving off to see relatives up north over the festive period. Councillor Tarbuck first knew something was amiss as he pulled his Volvo V70R car out of the garage as the steering was
Film review: Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (UGC Rubery). THIS doesn't try to be something it's not, providing enjoyment for all the family, and a film parents won't actually mind taking their children to see this holiday. Perfect release from this seasons onslaught
Wednesday, January 4 THEATRE: Little Red Riding Hood, The Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove. SOCIAL: Live Wyres for Social Singles. Meeting at the New Inn, Ombersley Road, Worcester (approx. 8.45pm). Thursday, January 5 MUSIC: Iron On Maiden + Skandal.
A NEW year to look forward to, and a new season at the Malvern Theatres. January will bring a new selection of theatre, film, music and dance, starting with Shared Experience's production of Jane Eyre. This is set to be followed by other dramas following
BRINGING a raucous treat to audiences, Kevin Montgomery & the Road Trippers play at Wolverhampton Little Civic on Tuesday. Featuring Robert Reynolds, Paul Deakin and Mike McAdam, plus support from Jill Jackson, fans can enjoy the usual impressive
A UNIQUE selection of creative classes and workshops for all ages in anything from tap dancing to stage fighting for adults and kids has been put together by the Artrix. The Bromsgrove arts complex is launching weekly classes in flamenco, jazz, street
WITH such a great beginning, I had high hopes for this show but alas, I was fooled, and it rapidly went downhill to become another run-of-the-mill evening's entertainment. Opening with classics I Got You Under My Skin and The Lady Is A Tramp, the 15-piece
