Archive

  • Ten-man Robins have too much bite for top dogs!

    Brackley Town 1, Evesham Utd 2 EVESHAM overcame the loss of goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan 18 minutes from time to collect three more points in pursuit of promotion. The goalkeeper was red carded after a fracas with Matt Murphy and his dismissal left the

  • Apologies to my neighbours!!

    For having to put up with a screaming dervish about 9.45 on Friday night!! Fuelled by red wine, the news that the Warriors had beaten current Premiership Champions Sale 18 – 12 precipitated an ecstatic and very noisy response. I hasten to add that I was

  • BULLOCK

    BULLOCK Joe and Jean We would like to thank everybody who came to our Golden Wedding Party. You made our night. God bless you all. Published in paper 10/03/2007

  • PREECE

    PREECE Margaret To mum wishing you a very happy 53rd Birthday. Got You! With love from Linda, Carl, Martin, Danielle and Chloe. Published in paper 10/03/2007

  • COLE

    COLE Richard Passed away seven years today. Always in our thoughts. Sadly missed by his Wife, Daughters, and their Families. Published in paper 10/03/2007

  • BEST

    BEST William Bill To have you here in the same old way, would be our greatest wish today. A little tribute small and tender just to say we still remember. Love alwaysSharon and grandson Nicholas.xx Published in paper 10/03/2007

  • PAGE

    PAGE Rachel Treasured memories of a dear wife, mother and grandmother, who passed away thirteen years tomorrow. Sadly missed but always in our thoughts. God bless. Husband Eric, Rita and Graham, Shirley and Terry, Alan and Sue, and the Grandchildren.

  • BEST

    BEST Bill March 11th 2006. Life goes on, so they say.For some that may be true.But my life also ended,The day that I lost you.Your were my life, my darling husband.Love you forever. Trisha Pat Published in paper 10/03/2007

  • Barn Stormer

    Property: Llangunnock Barns, Three Ashes, Herefordshire Price: £1.1million Agents: Roscoe Rogers & Knight 3, Agincourt Square Monmouth Tel: 01600 772929 Set in a truly rural location providing tranquillity and privacy without isolation, the conversion

  • We're the number one

    OLD Swinford Hospital is a 'number one' school according to Government inspectors. Every single grade given by Ofsted in its latest report on the Stourbridge school was a one - an incredible 39 in total. Old Swinford is one of the country's leading state

  • Parent power

    Headmaster, children, staff and parents at The Knoll School, Kidderminster, are celebrating the fantastic news published in the Sunday Times Parent Power 2006 CD. The Knoll is in the top 100 independent preparatory schools in the country, ranked at 80th

  • The spirit of the European Union

    THE spirit of European union filled the air when a whole class of German pupils dropped into Elmfield School, Stourbridge, for a ten day cultural exchange. The Germans, who come from Schloss Hamborn, were in the UK to meet their English friends who visited

  • City's fancy flavour and character starts here.

    NESTLED just a stone's throw away from Worcester city centre, on its northern outskirts, are The Tything and Barbourne. Despite being on the fringes of the city centre, this is an area steeped in history in its own right. The Upper Tything is dominated

  • Book Your Present Here

    FINDING the right gift is always difficult and collectable books make great choices. A history of journalism for a retired reporter. A first edition of The House at Pooh Corner for your first Christmas together. A 1930s book on the early film industry

  • National Champion

    Courtney Hyde, a pupil at Saint Martin's School in Solihull, is the new National Modern Triathlon Champion. The 14-year-old's performance at the championships, held at the Aldersley Stadium, Wolverhampton, was outstanding, marking her out as a contender

  • Your little girl will be in the pink

    Check out these winter warmers for your bundle of joy Footwear above by Inch Blue Shoes. Available from Lily & Tom children's wear. 2 The Southend, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 3EY Tel: 01531 631402 Clothing above by Iottum. Available from Lily &

  • Look hot this winter

    There's no need to go cool on dressing up - get some inspiration from these oufits. D'Ahrling Kersti dress (£115). Available from stripes, Foregate Street, Worcester. Tel: 01905 26772 Clothing available from Kitten Boutique. 76 The Homend, Ledbury, Herefordshire

  • Curtain Up!

    Pantomime - it's just such a laugh, says Liza Goddard - but it doesn't stop her from taking the genre extremely seriously. "It's such good fun," she says warming to her theme. "You just laugh all the time. "I know it sounds hard, two shows a day but usually

  • Go back in time for some unusual gifts

    Once again stallholders will be donning their Victorian outfits to bring a taste of old fashioned Christmas cheer to the city. Andrea Calvesbert reports WHAT a way to launch yourself into Christmas - strolling the streets of Worcester at twilight, smelling

  • Lighting up your life over the festive period

    Holding candles aloft in memory of their loved ones, Andrea Calvesbert previews the big switch-on which helps to raise thousands of pounds for local charities. EVERY year people in Evesham and Worcester help to raise thousands of pounds for local charities

  • Christmas Countdown

    One month Buy all the frozen foods and non-perishables to stock up your cupboards. Don't forget the crackers, napkins and any other table decorations you would like. Make sure you have enough alcohol, mixers and soft drinks - and make it your business

  • Heaven...

    Horatio Pagani was an employee at Lamborghini whose expertise with materials saw him rise quickly through the ranks to manage the composite material department. In 1988 he set up Pagani Composite Research which, while still with Lamborghini, gave him

  • They'll relay the message

    LIQUID PR LIQUID Public Relations Ltd was set up in April 2004 by Elisabeth Lewis-Jones and Menna Rees-Steer, two communicators with over 25 years' experience between them. Working in the private, not-for-profit and public sectors, the company has quickly

  • Designs on improving the look of your business

    Iguana Group INCORPORATED in 1993, The Iguana Group has now developed into a multi-disciplined design agency incorporating five independent brands that can offer a multiple range of services to both local and international businesses. The company, founded

  • Get the wedding gifts you want...

    EVER had that terrible, sinking feeling when your mind draws a complete blank as you hit the high street, desperately seeking a birthday present for a relative or a friend? No matter how much you know and love them - and no matter how many not-so-subtle

  • Cheers to a hotel of quality and distinction

    SITUATED in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside yet still a short drive from Birmingham city centre, The Bromsgrove Hotel offers everything you need for business or pleasure. The four-star property, which is part of Pedersen Hotels, boasts 109

  • Peace Offering

    Christmas is always a magical time but probably one of the most stressful as we go overboard in making sure everything's just perfect. There's presents to buy, cards to write, the house to clean and decorations to put up - while, for many, looking after

  • Big day superstitions

    Married in white, you've chosen all right Married in grey, you'll go far away Married in black, you'll wish yourself back This traditional rhyme from New England reminds us that there are many superstitions surrounding the bridal gown, but in fact the

  • Helping you to look your best

    Le Spa A BEAUTY treatment should leave you feeling totally relaxed as well as looking gorgeous - and Le Spa in Droitwich promises to offer its clients a friendly and comfortable environment in which to receive a range of therapies. The Victoria Square

  • Old Homend, Stretton Grandison

    WHAT IS IT? An Exquisite, Grade II Listed property in Homend Park WHAT'S INSIDE Downstairs *Entrance hall *Kitchen *Pantry *Garden room *Sitting room/Ball room *Library *Cloakroom with utility space First floor *Three generously-proportioned bedrooms

  • Family-run for over 130 years

    Frank Hedges and Sons Limited TO maintain a successful company over 130 years is an unbelievable achievement; to retain the same family ownership in a competitive market makes it even more remarkable. Frank Hedges & Sons Ltd has been in the steel

  • Church Farm, Grafton Flyford

    WHAT IS IT? An exceptional Grade II listed country residence with period barn standing within mature gardens and paddock WHERE IS IT? In the historic village of Grafton Flyford, near Pershore WHAT'S INSIDE *Downstairs *Reception hall *Cloackroom *Drawing

  • It's quality for you on a plate

    Catshill Pizzaman 'QUALITY food at quality prices' is the motto at Catshill Pizzaman, a new takeaway offering something a little bit different from the norm. Owners Manjit and Pam Baines have given the open-plan premises a stylish and modern look, with

  • Business with that family feel

    Barrie Beard Limited OVER the last 28 years, the electrical contracting firm Barrie Beard Ltd has gradually expanded into a hugely successful company employing over 60 staff. But, despite taking on large contracts worth figures of around £1m, the firm

  • Let there be light

    Here's some bright ideas for your home now the long, dark nights have arrived. Lights by Fritz Fryer Antique Lighting, 23 Station Street, Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 7AG. Tel 01989 567416, Fax 01989 566742 Campani silver modern lighting by Franklite

  • Hot hints for the perfect honeymoon

    All that hectic running around in preparation for 'the big day' is enough to make even the most chilled out, relentlessly relaxed person crave a happy holiday and be keen to get away from it all. So, see your honeymoon not only as the perfect opportunity

  • We wish you a berry berry Mary Christmas

    There's nothing better than tucking into a warming Christmas pudding. Cooking doyenne Mary Berry shares a foolproof recipe with Carol Driver. If a very good friend recommended a recipe for your family Christmas pudding - one that she has made every year

  • There's a room with a brew here

    If you go down to the pub today you are sure of a tasty surprise, brewed up by a family of brewers from the Cotswolds. Andrea Calvesbert reports. Hook Norton Brewery is serving up a special Christmas brew this year know as '12 Days', described by the

  • Fashionably married

    Getting married is becoming increasingly fashionable again and bridal fashion lies at the heart of preparation for the big day. Contemporary designers have created some dramatic forward-thinking gowns for the modern bride, but bridal couture has essentially

  • Graeme Hick Charity Ball

    IN AID OF THE PRINCE'S TRUST Record turnout for cricket legend's annual 100 Club night, including an auction. Fun: From left, Jane Rees and Jackie Hick with John Leftwich, area chairman of the Prince's Trust at the black tie evening. Smart: Ben Lewis

  • Something old, new, borrowed and blue...

    Married in white, you've chosen all right Married in grey, you'll go far away, Married in black, you'll wish yourself back THIS traditional rhyme from New England reminds us that there are many superstitions surrounding the bridal gown, but in fact the

  • The Mayor's Charity Ball

    It was another glittering occasion at New Road when the city's Mayor Ian Imray welcomed dignitaries dressed in their finery from around the region to his charity ball. Mayor of Kidderminster Paul Harrison with Mary Breese (front), and Mayor of Tewkesbury

  • Bridal Fashion

    BLUSHING brides have never had it so good when it comes to deciding what to wear on their big day. Elegance, sophistication, style and choice ooze from every high street bridal store - and even many supermarkets these days - offering a vast spectrum of

  • Planning to perfection

    How to make your big day one you'll remember forever MARRIAGES might be made in heaven but organising a wedding requires a far more down-to-earth approach. Everyone naturally wants their special day to be memorable for the things that went right - not

  • Weddings - Worcester/Malvern

    Meet the couples who recently started their new lives as Mr and Mrs. GREEN-BEEVERS Debi Green, second daughter of Elizabeth Green, of Worcestershire, married Simon Beevers, second son of Sheila Beevers, at Worcester Register Office. The reception was

  • Festive feast with a difference on offer

    Romna II Moorfield Road Alcester Tel: 01789 765430 WHY struggle with that turkey when you can get an award-winning chef to do it for you? That's what's on offer at Alcester's Romna II restaurant, where owner Mish Rahman is offering customers a five-course

  • Get the wedding gifts you want...

    EVER had that terrible, sinking feeling when your mind draws a complete blank as you hit the high street, desperately seeking a birthday present for a relative or a friend? No matter how much you know and love them - and no matter how many not-so-subtle

  • Nice day for a White Wedding

    Hundreds of brides-to-be, their fiancs and their parents flocked to the Three Counties Showground in Malvern for this massive event. Lisa Marie Evans models a Pronuptia gown. 43034507 Mark Rawlings of Kingsmore Carriages with sons Luke and Josh offering

  • Quality pub that sticks to tradition

    The Roebuck Birmingham Road Alcester Tel: 01789 762410 AFTER 15 years at The Roebuck, Ralph and Lynnette Lamb know just what makes their customers happy. And this year looks like being just as busy as the previous ones, with bookings already being taken

  • The ring's the thing!

    SO you've decided to take the plunge and go for broke by asking the beautiful love of your life to marry you. You've got the romantic occasion planned to perfection, right down to the finest detail, and have spent what seems like the best part of a millennium

  • Join a legion of loyal customers

    Summer Palace Birmingham Road, Mappleborough Green Tel: 01527 857118 or 854770 TRADITIONAL Chinese cooking using the best ingredients - surely there can't be a better reason for visiting Summer Palace this Christmas. The restaurant has built up a loyal

  • Marry off the beaten track

    'Adventure' destinations now popular THE dreamy, sunshine island of St Lucia has moved ahead of Barbados and Mauritius as the top choice for British weddings overseas, according to a new survey. An American Express Travel Weddings & Honeymoons report

  • Drive it as though you really mean it

    If you look wistfully back to the days of old school American muscle cars, Chrysler's 300C SRT-8 will represent something special. Somebody must be listening. When Chrysler first launched its 300C saloon in 2005, we told you it was a great piece of kit

  • Venue is premier place for a party

    Huggies 12 Market Place Redditch Tel: 01527 596283 DAVID Hughes certainly likes a challenge. The businessman, born and bred in Redditch, opened Huggies less than six months ago but has already seen the place turned into a beach and play host to a troupe

  • Hot hints for the perfect honeymoon

    ALL that hectic running around in preparation for "the big day" is enough to make even the most chilled out, relentlessly relaxed person crave a happy holiday and be keen to get away from it all. So, see your honeymoon not only as the perfect opportunity

  • Getting hitched on a shoestring

    YOU want the elegance, you want the sophistication, you want the class, you want your wedding to be remembered as the best day of your life. But at what price, and does a tight budget mean you and your guests will be missing out? If you'd prefer to avoid

  • For better, for worse...

    Wedding Weather SUMMER is the season of love, or so it may seem from the number of weddings that take place in Britain during the months of May to September. Around 60 per cent of all marriages in England and Wales take place during these months and there

  • Guests to share your special day

    WHAT is a wedding without guests? A small one, admittedly, and they do happen. But if you're organising a wedding, you're expecting guests and that means invitations. Printed or engraved invitations are the most convenient and most stationers have samples

  • Make the most of your assets

    IMAGINE you are painting a beautiful picture. Your picture! You will need to prepare. Plenty of vision, a chosen theme and application, to create a masterpiece of perfection. Starting with skincare for the face and body, it's important to establish a

  • Special festive magic

    The beautiful setting of The Mill can be appreciated at any time of the year, however a special magic presides over the festive season, with wonderful decorations and arrangements adorning each room throughout. Looking through the windows, the twinkling

  • The Fleck, British Camp, Malvern

    What is it? A large detached, mainlyEdwardian family home, set in extensive grounds Where is it? In a beautiful location in the Malvern Hills with stunning views of the surrounding landscape What's inside Downstairs *Entrance vestibule *Reception hall

  • Green ogre Shrek to switch on town lights

    Loveable green ogre Shrek will light up Stourbridge town centre when he switches on this year's Christmas lights. The popular animated movie character will do the honours at the town's official switch-on ceremony on Saturday December 8. Town centre manager

  • Tie the knot on tropical shores

    The dreamy, sunshine island of St Lucia has moved ahead of Barbados and Mauritius as the top choice for weddings overseas, according to a new survey by American Express. This year, more money - conscious couples chose to marry abroad, to take advantage

  • Take a boat ride to Santa

    Well-behaved boys and girls can deliver their Christmas wish lists to Santa after a trip along the Stourbridge Canal. Santa is making a special trip from his workshop in the North Pole to Stourbridge's Bonded Warehouse, Canal Street, where he will meet

  • The Stage is Now Set For Grays at The Northwick

    A former cinema is perhaps not the obvious place in which to house a fine furniture emporium, but when that cinema is the Northwick, it's a rather different story. The Grade II listed building, a wonderful example of the Art Deco period, has been lovingly

  • How Does Your Garden Grow?

    Professional garden designer Alison Bridge offers expert advice on making the most of your green space. This time, she explains how to keep your garden colourful throughout the winter months. Short days and long nights mean that for many of us the only

  • How you can keep this lifeboat afloat

    The RNLI is a vital lifesaving service - and it's money from the public that keeps its boats in the water, writes Andrea Calvesbert The RNLI has 233 lifeboat stations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland and also operates seasonal beach lifeguards in

  • CLUBS & SOCIETIES

    Art Redditch Art Circle: Miss Chris Skirrow (01527 524962. Arts FLAIR (Festival of Local Arts in Redditch): Tim Merridew, Chairman (07715 112828). Redditch Arts Council: Antonia Pulsford (01527 892268). The Redditch Society for the Appreciation of Science

  • How the dolce vita returned to Rimini

    In recent years, this Italian resort has seemed more like Blackpool than the legendary playground of the rich and famous, but Rebecca Burgess finds the good times are back In the 1970s, Rimini on Italy's Adriatic coast was considered the seaside destination

  • CHARITIES/CHARITY SHOPS

    Charities & charity shops Age Concern: 103 Easemore Road, Redditch (01527 584653) Alexandra Hospital League of Friends: Pat Hadley (01527 512009). British Heart Foundation: Charity shop: Market Place, Redditch (01527 591560) Cancer Research Campaign

  • Prestigious Award for Damar Homes

    Cannock-based Damar Homes is celebrating after a suite at its Forhill Manor development won the Daily Mail award for best apartment in the Worcestershire region. The Aspen Suite, part of the luxury development at Lea End Lane, Weatheroak, has attracted

  • PLACES OF WORSHIP

    Alcester Baptist Church: Rev A Aird (01789 766843). Alcester Methodist Church, Crabbs Cross Methodist Church, Headless Cross Methodist Church and Studley Methodist Church: The Rev Julia Pellett (01527 541885). Alvechurch Baptist Church: (0121 4477369)

  • Start your shopping!

    Booked your summer holiday for 2007 yet? Probably not, but you'll start thinking about it towards the end of December, no doubt. The reason you do it is simple... you don't want to miss out on the destination of your choice simply because other people

  • Talking turkey - and fine wine

    You may have ordered your Christmas turkey, posted your overseas cards and even finished buying presents, but have you remembered to sort out your Christmas wine? There's nothing more frustrating during that last-minute whizz around a supermarket only

  • It's a Gift - Surprise Surprise

    With most shops now offering a large range of Christmas gifts, the choice can be mind-boggling - so we've put together a selection of great ideas to give you some inspiration. There's something to suit everyone, whether you're looking for cute stocking

  • Have a berry Mary Christmas

    Mary Berry shares a foolproof recipe from her new book, Mary Berry's Christmas Collection. If a very good friend recommended a recipe for your family Christmas pudding - one that she has made every year and her guests love - you'd gratefully try it. Cooking

  • PUBLIC & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

    Benefits Agency Redditch: St Stephen's House, Prospect Hill, Redditch (01527 590000). Worcester Benefits Agency: Vine House, Farrier Street, Worcester (01905 720300). Bus services First: (01162 615675). Go West Midlands: (0121 505 3245). Careers Connexions

  • Back and enjoying it

    SIR John Foley is getting on famously with being High Sheriff of Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Since taking up the appointment he has been out and about in the two counties visiting the police, fire and ambulance services, presenting awards, attending

  • Weddings

    Meet the couples who recently started their lives as Mr & Mrs Hornsey-Humphries Heatha Hornsey, youngest daughter of Valerie Hornsey, of Welshpool, Powys, and Harold Hornsey (deceased), married Ian Humphries, youngest son of Dorothy Humphries, of

  • Diary: Fab Forum

    Businesswomen from across the region teed off in style at a new networking forum set up by Black Country solicitors Waldrons and Birmingham finance company Liquidity. The first event for the 'Females and Business' (FAB) club was held at Bromsgrove Golf

  • Fit for angels

    Bertram's revenge on the Taxman - how, cider brandy came back to life. By George Thomas Once upon a time, in the depths of rural Herefordshire, there were lots of pot stills bubbling away making cider brandy, and the villagers would get very merry drinking

  • WOMEN'S GROUPS

    Ladies' Luncheon Club Alcester Conservative Luncheon Club: Mrs Helen Winder, Secretary (01789 400679). Mothers' Union Beoley, Church Hill & Abbey Park Mothers' Union: Rosalind Prentice, St Leonard's Church, Beoley. National Women's Register National

  • Bathroom Heaven

    Over the past 21 years, Roman Bathrooms has become a byword for excellent service in bathroom design and makeover in the Midlands. Believing that a bathroom is much more than just a place to wash, the company offers not only the highest quality fittings

  • YOUNG PEOPLE

    Air Cadets Redditch Air Cadets: Matt Onions (01527 454608). 480 (Studley) Squadron: Pool Road, Studley. Guides Girlguiding in Worcestershire: (01905 797377, email worcsguides@hotmail.com). Scouts Wawickshire Scout Council - 1st Alcester, 1st Salford Priors

  • Santa set to move to his Ryemarket grotto

    Christmas is all about traditions, from opening the advent calendar and decorating the tree to carol singing, and for parents with children no Christmas would be complete without a visit to Father Christmas himself. Stourbridge's very own Santa's Grotto

  • Diary

    Hewett - Lathwood Louise Hewett, managing director of Hewett Recruitment in Worcester and Kidderminster, married Mark Lathwood on September 9 at the Church of Mary Magdalene in Little Hereford, with celebrations afterwards at their home. The couple honeymooned

  • Get ready to party ...

    Whether you're partying with a group of friends, having a family get-together or dancing at the office 'do', Christmas is the time when everyone wants to celebrate. The secret to a successful Christmas celebration is to book early. The best recommendation

  • Drama Queens

    Like it or not, winter is upon us now, and it's time to concentrate on enjoying the rich fabrics and deep colours of the season. Dramatic detail is all-important at Frank Usher, where glamorous evening wear in jewelled colours is embellished with chiffon

  • A NEW VISION FOR THE COMMUNITY

    THE future of the town is set to come under the spotlight with a special consultation exercise that will draw up a document aimed at shaping the Spa's future. The Town Plan steering group is developing a strategy for consulting local people. It is hoped

  • All Dressed Up

    Ladies in search of the perfect outfit for the party season will no doubt be delighted by the opening of a brand new boutique in Astwood Bank. In the heart of the pretty Worcestershire village, AlyRose houses an impressive collection of formal ladies'

  • It's time to light up a life

    A Stourbridge hospice has made a heartfelt appeal urging borough folk to join in with their light up a life campaign during the festive season. Mary Stevens Hospice, based on the Hagley Road, is holding a special Christmas service at the hospice on Sunday

  • Top dog!

    Is your pet pooch driving you barking mad? HE may be man's best friend but that relationship can become more than a little strained when a dog's behaviour causes problems for its owners. But even the most loving of dog owners often don't realise that

  • Irish Cream

    Irish fashion is currently enjoying a new-found popularity, thanks to the expansion of commercial brands in the UK and the growing presence of boutique labels. Enterprise Ireland, the trade and technology board of the Irish Government, has been working

  • Village full of history

    In medieval times Swinford (then spelt Swynford) was an extensive manor bordering the extensive manor of Swinford Regis (Kingswinford). Swinford is mentioned in a Saxon charter of 950 AD (spelt Suineforde). It is also mentioned in William the Conqueror's

  • AGRICULTURE

    National Farmers' Union Bromsgrove: First Floor, Grosvenor House, Market Street, Bromsgrove, B61 8DA (01527 873083). Young Farmers' Clubs Young Farmers' Clubs County Federation: County Chairperson, Worcestershire Young Farmers' Clubs, County Office, Shires

  • Girls get dance fever

    Located in a beautiful Staffordshire village, Abbots Bromley School for Girls provides a high quality education for more than 300 girls aged from four to 18. This flourishing boarding and day school offers an exceptionally enriching experience for girls

  • Shape of things to come

    The sun has gone in and the hot weather is slowly disappearing, which, sadly for sun worshippers, means the end of another summer. Fashionistas, however, are already happily looking ahead to the new season and the cool looks they'll be shopping for. This

  • ANIMAL WELFARE

    Animal Clubs/Societies Bromsgrove & District Canine Society: Mrs D Morgan, Oak Tree House, 504 Birmingham Road, Marlbrook, Bromsgrove (0121 445 3595). Bromsgrove & District Canine Society (Ringcraft Section): Di Morgan (0121 445 3595). Bromsgrove

  • Festive Fabulous Hair

    If there is one time of the year when you want your hair to shine, it's during the festive season. From mid-December through to New Year's Eve, work and play merge and life becomes one non-stop party. This is the perfect time to let your hair down. But

  • Tasty treats for those winter days

    Beer-Can Chicken Never was there more amusement to be had from roasting a chicken. The bird is 'stuffed' with a can of beer, which bastes it from the inside out. Result: extra moist chicken. Two things to remember: don't drink too much of the beer or

  • Society news - Hereford Chamber Choir

    HEREFORD Chamber Choir spent five days in Germany as guests of the SKD choir from the Erloserkirche, Munich. The trip followed Hereford's hosting a visit by the German group last year. The chamber choir gave two concerts, one in the Erloserkirche where

  • Shaken not stirred

    IT'S 1956 and in a little town outside New York, Uncle Angelo's ice cream parlour is the place to go. All the kids hang out there, eating ice cream, drinking shakes and rocking to the sounds on the jukebox. Well, in reality, it was the Alice Ottley Junior

  • Christmas Glamour

    Children's Red Party Dress £47.99 Boo tique. Purple Sequin Drop Earings £4 Dorothy Perkins. Black Lace Dress £40 Dorothy Perkins. Purple Sequin Chain £8 Dorothy Perkins. Black Diamante Buckle Dress £30 Dorothy Perkins. Purple Sequin Glittery Ring £4 Dorothy

  • Seeing is Believing

    Robinson & Sproson in Hagley surpass what you would normally expect from an optician with their excellent level of customer care. The staff devotes time and attention to each patient, ensuring they receive both an accurate prescription and the most

  • ASSOCIATIONS, CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

    Business Bromsgrove Junior Chamber: Kathryn Gee (01527 576500). Bromsgrove Probus Club: Mr Bob Black (0121 445 3699). Chamber of Commerce and Business Link Herefordshire and Worcestershire: Chamber Court, Castle Street, Worcester WR1 3EN (01905 723200

  • Society news - Hergest Croft

    More than 400 guests spent a magical summer's evening at Hergest Croft, Kington, by kind invitation of Lawrence and Liz Banks, to listen to Mozart's Cos fan tutte, performed by The Garden Opera Company. The evening was supported for the sixth year by

  • BEREAVEMENT

    WHAT TO DO WHEN A DEATH OCCURS When a death certificate has been issued by the doctor it must be shown to the registrar, who will record the death. ARRANGING THE FUNERAL Check to see if there are any instructions by the deceased. If not it is up to the

  • Society news - Galanthus Gallery

    Galanthus Gallery, in Wormbridge, held a privileged private view for its Sculpture in the Garden 2006, in aid of Breast Cancer Haven, Hereford. The exhibition, which ran throughout the summer, featured work by artists Peter Clarke, Peter Colquitt, Matt

  • CHARITIES

    Charitable organisations Age Concern: 51 Windsor Road, Bromsgrove (01527 570490), and Severn House, 32 Ombersley Street, Droitwich Spa (01905 772126). Amphlett Hall: Crown Close, Bromsgrove (01527 874665). Dodford Children's Farm: Warbage Lane, Dodford

  • CHILDREN'S GROUPS

    After School Clubs Cadbury Time After School and Holiday Club: Longbridge Methodist Church, Bristol Road South, Rednal (0121 453 4365). Happy Days Playscheme: The Barn, New Chawson Lane, Droitwich Spa. Lickey Hills Primary School: Mrs Leslie, 8 Lickey

  • Diary

    TREK FOR ACORNS ITV Central News presenter Joanne Malin is calling for more volunteers to join her on a fundraising trek to the Grand Canyon in June 2007, in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice. The 10-day challenge will see participants following a trail

  • Society news - Abbey Dore

    A weekend of good food, music and enjoyment under the Black Mountains took place at Abbey Dore, hosted by the people of Craswell. Two concerts saw performances by violinist Tasmin Little, pianist Simon Crawford-Phillips and The Craswell Players. The second

  • Society News - Picture round-up

    1. Renowned chef Franco Taruschio (right), formerly of the acclaimed Walnut Tree Inn in Abergavenny, with Ross Williams, chef/proprietor of The Wellington. Franco spent a day at the award-winning pub and restaurant in Wellington recreating some of The

  • Home From Home

    Kidderminster's KEMP Hospice, which provides care and support for people suffering from cancer or other life-threatening illnesses, has launched a year of fundraising in celebration of its 25th birthday. The day hospice, which moved to a new location

  • A Winning Formula in Bromsgrove

    David Wilson Retirement homes arrive in style. The hunt for a new home in a genuinely first rate location is a challenge for home buyers throughout the country, but is especially important when it comes to searching for a retirement home. The market town

  • The height of fashion

    A GROUP of model pupils held a fashion show of work they had produced throughout the year. The stunning collections showed by pupils at Bromsgrove School's senior school featured a range of garments for womenswear, menswear and childrenswear. The work

  • Society news - The Red Cross Great Spring Garden Event

    The Red Cross Great Spring Garden Event proved it was just that - great! Nearly 1,300 attended the event earlier this year, raising just over £16,000 for the charity's work in Herefordshire. 1. At the cake stall (from left to right) are: Sue Vaughan,

  • EDUCATION

    Adults Schools Rubery Adult School: Mrs E Main, Secretary, 25 Segbourne Road, Rubery (0121 453 4843). Colleges North East Worcestershire (NEW) College: Bromsgrove Campus, Blackwood Road, Bromsgrove (01527 570020). Learning Difficulties Bromsgrove Challengers

  • Society news - Hereford Cathedral

    Each June more than 100 Friends of Hereford Cathedral gather for a weekend of celebration, fine lunches and to enjoy the delights of the cathedral. This year, they were entertained to a salmon supper in the 15th century College Cloisters, with music provided

  • A Welcome Release

    The current pensions crisis, coupled with increased life expectancy, means that retirees need to think carefully about whether their funds will see them through an enjoyable and relaxed retirement. One way to do this is to 'downsize' by selling your current

  • A fine opening for new pavilion

    Warwickshire cricket star Dougie Brown delivered a fine opening for a £180,000 sports pavilion at Hallfield School in Birmingham. The all-rounder was invited to sports day at this leading independent prep school in Church Road, Edgbaston, to declare the

  • HOTELS AND ACCOMMODATION

    Farmhouses The Durrance: Berry Lane, Upton Warren (01562 777533). Lower Bentley Farm: Lower Bentley Lane, Lower Bentley, Bromsgrove (01527 821286). The Old Farm House: Hadley Heath, nr Droitwich (01905 620837). Phepson Farm: Himbleton, nr Droitwich (01905

  • Weddings

    Mark Allen Natalie Harris WHEN pharmacists Mark John Allen and Natalie Charlotte Harris met, marriage proved the best prescription for their relationship. The wedding took place at St Mary's Church, Hay-on-Wye. Mark is the son of Terry and Christine Allen

  • Save! Save! Save! Spend! Spend! Spend!

    One of the biggest areas for saving tax by spending is through proper estate planning during your lifetime. Whether you are individual, the spouse of a marriage, a civil partner in a legally enforceable civil partnership or their survivor you have a number

  • Musical

    Musicians at The Blue Coat School, Edgbaston, have been hitting the right notes with some impressive exam results from the Royal Schools of Music. In an all-time record, 12 instrumentalists gained distinctions at various grades, including three at Grade

  • Drovers return

    Property: Drovers Barn, Whitney on Wye, Price: £565,000 Agent: McCartneys Contact: 01497 820778 hay@mccartneys.co.uk THE new owner of Drovers Barn is bound to be happy to return again and again to this converted building which, in part, dates back to

  • School Launches Business Hub

    Miles Templeman, director general of the institute of Directors, oficially opened the new £250,000 business hub at Old Swinford Hospital in Stourbridge, and also unveiled a plaque to the late Bob Michaelson, the former IoD chairman who was instrumental

  • RECREATION AND LEISURE

    Beer and Wine Droitwich Spa and District Wine Circle: Stephanie Edwards (01905 723931). Carnivals Bromsgrove Carnival and Committee: Details relating to the 2007 Carnival and its committee will appear in the Bromsgrove Advertiser and on our website: www.bromsgroveadvertiser.co.uk

  • Grape Expectations

    Not so long ago, English wine was regarded as something of a joke - but those perceptions are finally changing, as Sally Oldaker discovers on a visit to Astley Vineyard. It used to be regarded as complete madness to produce wine in England," explains

  • Georgian Delight

    Property: The Old Rectory, Thruxton Agent: Humberts Price: £950,000 Contact: 01432 278278, www.humberts.co.uk Georgian splendour, wonderful views AND an all-weather tennis court. Just three reasons to recommend this period country house. Of course, there's

  • Filini

    As one of Birmingham's newest upmarket restaurants, Filini has quickly become one of the city's most popular. Lisa Piddington enjoyed an evening of fine dining. Go back a few years and when it came to dining in Birmingham there was little to write home

  • SUPPORT GROUPS

    Advocacy Bromsgrove & Redditch Citizen Advocacy: Greenlands Business Centre, Studley Road, Redditch (01527 520809). Bereavement Bromsgrove Bereavement Counselling Service: Trained, professional and confidential service (08708 503537). CRUSE Bereavement

  • In Very Good Taste

    Each issue, alongside the delicious recipes provided by Patrick McDonald at Epic' Bromsgrove, we will be featuring a different 'guest chef' from a restaurant in the local area. This time we invited Mark Fry of Hogarths Hotel in Solihull to share his secrets

  • TAXIS

    Don't drink and drive - take the safer option... BE it Christmas, New Year, a wedding, a birthday, or a special anniversary, the advice is always the same - don't drink and drive! The amount of alcohol in the blood can affect a person's ability to drive

  • What's On

    As you would expect, the approach to the festive season means plenty of Christmas-themed entertainment - Symphony Hall presents several such concerts, including a Christmas Gala, traditional Carols by Candlelight and New Year's Eve celebrations. There's

  • Boys allowed

    Priory School in Edgbaston is to accept boys into year seven of its Senior School from September 2007. The move will see the introduction of a new teaching model - together but separate - in which girls and boys will be educated separately in core subjects

  • SEARCH IS ON FOR WOMAN OF THE YEAR

    THE search is now on for the Worcestershire Woman of the Year 2007. Organisers are currently looking to find four special women who in their own way have made a difference to life in the area. The results will be announced and the women honoured at a

  • Tackling the bullies

    TWO of Bromsgrove School's upper sixth formers have been honoured for their outstanding contribution to the school community. Rose Lake and Ben Rymer received Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Awards for their work to tackle bullying. Rose and Ben have

  • Soul Man

    As soul singer Roy G Hemmings prepares for a special Christmas show at Artrix, he chats to Sally Oldaker about his days with the Drifters, his early musical career and his plans for the future. Although Roy is perhaps best known for being the second-longest-serving

  • The champions

    Having produced a succession of excellent performances in this year's Solihull Schools Borough Sports competition, Saint Martin's U-16 and U-14 athletes are, overall, the borough champions. The star performers and outright winners at the event were Kate

  • Cricket triumph

    Malvern College Old Boys (OMs) defeated Tonbridge School Old Boys (OTs) in the final of the Cricketer Cup, played for by 32 schools annually, at Richmond Cricket Club. Malvern headmaster Hugh Carson suffered from split loyalties throughout the match as

  • Zakynthos the Misunderstood Island

    Ask most people what they associate with Zakynthos, the third largest and most southerly of the Greek Ionian islands, and chances are they'll say loud clubs and free-flowing beer. But despite what the package companies try to tell you, Zakynthos - or

  • Gym'll fix it

    Gymnastics is a very popular sport at The Alice Ottley School in Worcester. It is taught during the school day as part of the PE curriculum and there are also thriving after-school clubs for students in the senior school and from year two upwards in the

  • Village green

    Wombourne may lay claim to being the largest village in England, but despite a large population increase over the last century, it remains very much a traditional English village with its historic character still in evidence. The village green serves

  • Mud glorious mud!

    Mud may be dirty murky and impossible to remove but it has its beauty benefits too! Mud is dirty and gloopy - yet we're more than willing to smear it on our faces and slather it all over our bodies in the name of beauty. And for good reason. Despite its

  • First Editions

    Book reviews are written by Sarah Broadhurst exclusively for www.lovereading.co.uk, the UK's newest and most exciting online book shop, helping you choose your next book. Download and print off opening extracts, be guided by the exclusive author 'like

  • Prep School

    Cleansing, toning and moisturising just aren't enough any more these days, experts are advising us to prepare our skins before applying make-up. "A beautiful look begins with great-looking skin," renowned make-up artist Laura Mercier says. "Before applying

  • Ancient glory

    Readers who appreciate the rich history of this county will be pleased to learn that a unique and ancient Worcestershire building has been restored to its original glory. Church House Areley Kings, built in 1536, is the only original Church House left

  • Property

    Laing Homes (West Midlands) has been granted full planning permission for an exclusive £7.5 million development in the picture-postcard village of Inkberrow. Barley Meadows is a development of contemporary but sympathetically-designed and spacious family

  • We're JAMin'

    AAH autumn - the time to reap nature's bounty. Not without reason do we talk about all that "mellow fruitfulness". It's when we gather in the harvest and reap the benefits of the summer while, traditionally, preparing for sparser winter days ahead. There

  • Autumn Fest

    Seasonal events that lie ahead Hallowe'en Probably THE October event - originating more than 2,000 years ago with the Celtic Samhain, which celebrated the end of summer and the beginning of the Celtic new year on November 1. The Celts also believed that

  • The ultimate luxury

    Imagine coming home after a hard day's work and winding down in your very own hot tub. Sounds too good to be true? Not any more. From entry level models to top of the range versions, there's a hot tub to suit every setting and budget. Hot tubs are by

  • Core Value

    THERE couldn't be a day more pertinent to Herefordshire and its cider heritage than National Apple Day, October 21. The event, organised by the Common Ground organisation, has been running since 1990 and sees apple-related events and celebrations taking

  • Shareholder Agreements - A Useful Tool

    Companies which opt to run along the same lines as a partnership often use shareholder agreements. So do corporate partners in joint business ventures. The Articles of Association regulate the majority of a limited company's management and internal affairs

  • One woman and her dog

    In only five years sheepdog triallist Angie Blackmore has accomplished what many handlers take a lifetime to master. Roy Lewis meets her to gain an insight into the world of top flight sheepdog trialling. Angie Blackmore keeps her whistle about her at

  • Laid Back

    The ancient craft of hedgelaying and all its different styles is undergoing something of a revival - but Herefordshire's own particular style may lose out to others in the future. County expert George Bevan tells ROY LEWIS about the drawbacks and why

  • Things ain't what they used to be?

    CAR fans are not happy, it seems! Those who enjoy the sensations and satisfactions that come with car ownership are truly fed up with, well, many things. There's the fact that less than a third of road tax gets spent on roads, that fuel is expensive and

  • Beauty

    BUY A GIFT FOR CHARITY Online retailer Buyagift.com has unveiled a limited-edition version of its Deluxe Makeover Experience gift box for Breast Cancer Awareness Month - the company will donate 50 per cent of the retail price (£49.99) of the rebranded

  • Learning for life

    After 31 years spent working in many different areas of education, helping young people to improve their reading and writing skills, Christine Arter retired and set herself up as a Consultant Reading Specialist, offering Individual Learning Support. She

  • Rising Star

    The new Radisson SAS Hotel in Birmingham opened in January in the city's newest landmark building. The first class 211-room hotel is spread over the first 18 floors of the 39-storey, 400ft Beetham Tower - a stunning curved structure sheathed in turquoise

  • A good nights rest is essential

    On average we all spend at least a third of our lives in bed! That means that in a typical life 25 years or more than a quarter of a century is spent under the covers and that is a very long time - like waking up today after a sleep that began in 1981

  • Theatre of dreams

    Built in 1913, the Palace Theatre in Redditch is a building of national significance - and over the past 12 months, a major refurbishment project has restored this historic venue to its former glory. The grand re-opening on April 22 was the culmination

  • A family run business

    Woolwise Lower, Mill Street, Kidderminster is a family run business run by Tina and Roy Mantle who took over the shop in July 2005. Tina is an accomplished crafts person and skilled in a multitude of design and arts and crafts including Knitting, Crochet

  • Bring your home to life for less at Carters

    With the summer holidays now an increasingly distant memory the time has come to look at bringing the home up to scratch. As the nights draw in a comfortable and cosy home is just the thing to protect against those winter blues and one of Kidderminster's

  • Happy residents make for a happy life

    The home is located in picturesque grounds overlooking the countryside and offers tranquil settings for both residents and staff to enjoy. The staff at Lickhill Manor have a dedicated nursing team let by Matron Lyn Mason, and both Lyn and her staff always

  • Meeting the needs of our customers

    A Kidderminster business that can properly claim to be a one-stop shop for domestic electrical equipment. Bells in Blackwell Street is the place to go whether the need is for a new washing machine, dishwasher, microwave or cooker but it also stocks a

  • Friendly and inviting centre

    Complementary therapist Linda Thomas is embarking on a mission to create calm and effective working environments. As well as offering the full range of holistic therapies at Sempre in Kidderminster town centre, Linda will visit businesses to treat employees

  • Volunteering can improve your love life

    A good way to meet people these days is through speed dating. It is also a little known fact that volunteering can improve your love life, according to a survey from CSV Community Service Volunteers. They found that one in five 18-24 year olds and 8%

  • Playing a round - at Blackwell Golf Club

    Traditional to a golfing 'tee' is the splendid Blackwell course tucked away in north Worcestershire's rolling, wooded countryside, and at the same time quite a number of other words beginning with 't' demonstrate what it is all about. It's a treasure

  • When two become one

    Two of the oldest and most respected independent schools in Worcestershire are to merge to form a combined flagship school. The Royal Grammar School and The Alice Ottley School, both in Worcester, will come together to form a new, enlarged school when

  • What's cooking

    PUPILS at a Droitwich Spa school are being taught the importance of healthy eating from a very early age. Students at Dodderhill School, which is one of the few schools in the area offering GCSE catering, enjoy lunches that are freshly made and cooked

  • A top level visit

    Harriett Baldwin, the Conservative parliamentary candidate for West Worcestershire, was quizzed about World Aids Day when she chatted to girls at Malvern St James. During her visit Ms Baldwin met with girls from the sixth form who attended the Stop Aids

  • Arpan breaks the language barrier

    A Birmingham ten-year-old beat off stiff competition to scoop third place in the national final of the Junior Language Challenge at Olympia, London. Arpan Sharma, of The Blue Coat School, Edgbaston, had only a month to learn Swahili before joining 36

  • Serving up friut tasting fun

    It's a far cry from parents pushing chips and burgers through the school fence, but mums at a Birmingham school came up with their own special food delivery. Unlike the dubious qualities of fast food, they were confident in the healthy goodness of a range

  • Public Services

    HM Taxes Banbury: Crown Buildings, Southam Road 0845 3021434 Cheltenham: Parabola Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3BE 01242 585585. Evesham: Lower Leys 0845 302 1408.. Gloucester District: Bentinck House, Bruton Way 0845 366 7840. Oxford District: Trinity House

  • Top class

    A DROITWICH Spa school has been named among the best independent secondary schools in the country. Dodderhill School, which is in Crutch Lane, was ranked 11th out of 50 in The Sunday Times Parent Power league tables for smaller independent secondary schools

  • Playgroups, Schools

    Worcestershire Abbey Road Playgroup, Abbey Park First School, Pershore. 01386 552722.. Adventure Kids Pre-School: Evesham Adventure Playground, Woodlands, Evesham (01386 442154). Alphabet House Pre-school: St Richard's Hall, Fairfield, Evesham. 01386

  • Animal Care, Agriculture and Horticulture

    ANIMAL WELFARE Evesham: Cat Protection, Wickhamford. 01386 833343; Dogs Trust, Wickhamford. 01386 830613. Tewkesbury: Cat Protection, 01684 297227. RSPCA Call centre for the area: 08705 555999. PDSA Coventry Centre (02476 590298). NFU Banbury: Orchard

  • Blast from the past

    THERE was a blast from the past when St Mary's Convent School, Worcester, held its annual prizegiving. Old girl Lisa Essex, who went to St Mary's from 1981-88, was there to present the prizes. After graduating from University College, London, Lisa won

  • Journal Correspondents

    Bidford: Dennis Malin, 34 Jubilee Close, Bidford. 01789 772698. Bourton-on-the-Hill: David Day, 7 Bowes Lyon Close, Moreton-in-Marsh. 01608 651622. Brailes: Vanessa Boyce, 1 Bakery Cottages, Lower Brailes. 01608 685371. Bredon: K W Harrison, Bredon Dene

  • Associations

    Belle D'Vain Women's Clog Dancing: Joan Humphrys, 2 Evesham Road, Cleeve Prior, Evesham. 01789 778508. British Heart Foundation: Pam Hooper, Lilac House, 24 Fosseway Ave, Moreton in Marsh. 01608 651 320. Childrens Kayak Charitable Trust: 95 Battleton

  • Women's Institute

    Gloucestershire Gloucestershire County Federation: 2 Brunswick Square, Gloucester. 01452 523966, 01452 523966. www.gfwi.org.uk Warwickshire Warwickshire County Federation: Federation House, 1 Corunna Court, Corunna Road, Warwick. CV34 5QH. 01926 419998

  • We have lift-off

    FORMER Bromsgrove School headboy Graham Orme has graduated as a flying officer from the Royal Air Force College at Cranwell. Graham, who left the school in 2001 and whose grandfather lives in Bromsgrove, first gained a masters degree in physics at Bristol

  • Poet opens new library

    The King's School, Worcester, has celebrated the completion of its new £2 million library. The building was officially opened by Roger McGough - the award-winning poet, playwright, broadcaster and children's author - in a ceremony that was the culmination

  • A Vision For Christmas

    THE last stroke of midnight sounded from the cathedral tower, heralding another Christmas day. Apart from a few stragglers and those attending midnight mass in the city churches, the revellers had made their way home. The inspector made his way thoughtfully

  • Buddy system

    The best of friends: Leading independent school Hallfield has introduced a buddy scheme to ensure children have a playmate at break times as Amelia Stettner and Amarah Badial found out.

  • Sweet Success

    LIFE is sweet for Alison Mogg - and it's all down to her beloved granny. It was granny to whom she was incredibly close, it was granny who inspired her to set up in business for herself and it was granny who provided the name for the business which, in

  • Christmas Cheers

    Christmas is a very exciting and busy time of year in our shop. It is a great privilege to provide the drink for the festive season and this is the time of year we all get asked the most important questions about wines and food. I have compiled a list

  • Students are full of beans

    Girls at Malvern St James took part in the Macmillan World's Biggest Coffee Morning. The sixth form business studies group organised the coffee morning themselves. The girls made handmade cakes and biscuits to sell, while students from the music department

  • Musical Youth

    We love to hear choirs sing carols at Christmas. The carol service is a vital way of just touching base with the real meaning of what the season's all about. The run-up to the big day gets increasingly frantic but people always try to attend at least

  • There's nothing uniform about us

    Wolverhampton Grammar School held a non-uniform day to raise money for a college in Uganda. Students and teachers paid £2 each to wear their own clothes and have coloured hair. The final total raised is expected to be in excess of £1,000. The Lords Meade

  • Life before stairs

    A GROUP of children enjoyed an insight into life below stairs as part of their local history topic. The youngsters from Heathfield School, Wolverley, near Kidderminster, were invited to apply for the positions of boot boy and scullery maid when they visited

  • Prince of Trails

    Arriving at Knighton via the Heart of Wales railway line on a warm early-summer's day, I found the pre-arranged campsite below Pantpunton oak wood, on the English side of the meandering River Teme, which forms the border here. Leaving Knighton via the

  • Games For A Laugh

    Christmas morning may bring excitement and presents, but Christmas afternoon often means family rows and falling asleep in front of the telly. So, to stop the day fizzling out, you need to get everyone playing a few games. While we can't promise that

  • Emergencies

    To contact the ambulance, fire brigade or the Police Dial 999 Electricity CENTRAL NETWORKS:- All numbers now centralised for all areas. Loss of supply: 0800 238 1111 General inquiries: 08457 353 637. Southern Electricity Call centre: Woodstock Road, Yarnton

  • Runners go the distance

    A team of Wolverhampton Grammar School students raised more than £5,000 for the Children's Liver Disease Foundation when they ran the breadth of Britain. The nine students, aged 14 and 15, ran 180 miles from St Bees on the west coast of Cumbria to Robin

  • Give Them The Old Razzle Dazzle

    Razzle dazzle 'em this Christmas with some of the most glamorous get-ups around! Double face coat, £350, beaded tulle flapper dress, £350. From Jaeger's London Precis Petite taffeta bustier £69, Taffeta stole £49, Black Trousers £79, bag £39. Next: pink

  • What's Your Bag?

    When it comes to accessories most women fall into two definite fashion camps - shoe aficionados and the bag addicts. It's safe to say actress Lindsay Lohan falls into the bag-loving latter. In a matter of weeks the party girl was snapped with more than

  • Claire means business

    A pupil at Wolverhampton Grammar School has been awarded the Tildesley & Tonks economics and business award. The winning student, Claire Cartwright, received a prize of £200 and a silver salver for her effort. The award was made in response to a summer

  • Hockey girls make the grade

    Four RGS Worcester pupils have been selected to represent Worcestershire in the county's U-13 hockey squad. Jade Marshall-Walker, aged 12, Jodie Palmer, Francesca Short and Chloe Marshall-Walker, all 11, have started training with the team and look forward

  • It's A Man Thing

    Wool rich Epsom coat £69.99, grey lambswool argyle pattern V-neck sweater £29.99. From Next Vintage leather jacket £179, Blue Harbour, ruby pure cashmere jumper, £69, Collezione jeans, £39.50, tweed buckle satchel £29.50, driving gloves, £25, leather

  • Blazes can make your home a hot proprty

    Whether its a fireplace or central heating you want, there's a warm welcome here. Come in from the cold and feel the warmth of a stylish fireplace or a new energy efficient central heating system in your home. A stunning fireplace display can make all

  • Christmas in the Cotswolds

    The Cotswolds are gorgeous all year round, but it's at this time of year that its towns and villages come into their own, finds Andrea Landesbert. Imagine a chilly wintry day, bright blue sky and sunshine with a nip in the air.What better way to spend

  • Flagging up a new event

    Sport of all descriptions is an important element of a healthy lifestyle and particularly important for growing children. At King's St Alban's Junior School in Worcester there is a tradition of introducing children to new sports including judo, fencing

  • Howzat!

    A CENTURY or more in cricket is something to be celebrated - unless it's a book on the subject. Then it's a yawning gap in knowledge of the county's history at the crease. All that is about to change thanks to two Herefordshire cricketing enthusiasts

  • Enjoying The Christmas Spirit

    Popping pills ASPIRIN HOW DOES IT WORK? An anti-inflammatory drug, in the same category as Ibuprofen. BEST FOR TREATING: Effective for treating headaches. If you've drunk too much and have acid indigestion, aspirin wouldn't be good for treating these

  • Selected

    SELECTED: Kemi Greene, Tina Goodwin and Priya Marwaha, from Malvern St James, celebrate after winning places in the Midlands lacrosse squad.

  • Stars and stories for all the family

    There's plenty for children and adults to enjoy at the theatre this Christmas, as Andrea Calvesbert reveals. SHOUTS of 'Oh no it isn't, Oh yes it is' are starting to echo around the area's theatres heralding the start of Christmas panto season. What a

  • Decent Exposure

    There may be just over a month to Christmas, but the party season is fast approaching. Now's the time to ensure that those areas you've been hiding don't let you down when you want to show them off. Revealing party dresses and sandals mean areas that

  • Wrap Artist

    You don't have to spend a fortune to give someone a present to remember. A beautifully wrapped gift is guaranteed to make their day. According to Charlotte Packer, co-author of Gift Wrapping and Christmas Inspirations, you don't need a degree in design

  • Growing older is inevitable, looking older is optional

    Kate Yates finds a Malvern clinic that will help you look a little lovelier every day WITH the current trend towards retaining a youthful look for as long as possible, there are a great number of procedures available to the public through the media. Many

  • Tree mendous!

    Whereas until recently, imported Christmas trees made up a large percentage of the supply of real trees, British growers are now producing a big variety of species. Having spent more than 25 years in the gas supply industry, I needed a retirement project

  • 'Tis The Season To Be Green

    Festive eating, drinking and goodwill are all key ingredients for a brilliant Christmas celebration - but they also equate to about three million tonnes of waste across the UK every year. In fact, it is thought that one billion Christmas cards, 750 million

  • It's A Gift

    How about a gift token for someone who's always wanted to learn something new but never got around to treating themselves. A gift token from Creative Breaks, starting at £50, will not buy any extreme sporty activity, but it will give someone the chance

  • It pays to get a good independent school

    Choosing a school is a big decision which could affect the rest of a child's life. Andrea Calvesbert looks at the options if you want to put your child into private eduction. For some people, their local school is ideal - but not all children have the

  • Bough Wow

    Christmas wouldn't be the same without decorations but beware - your display will look as sad as last year's cards if you're using the same baubles year after year. Nowadays, fashion rules in everything and that includes the festive season. Last year

  • Spare an hour and enjoy a spot of TLC

    Christmas is the perfect time to relax, unwind and enjoy a detox treatment, writes Andrea Calvesbert. LET'S face it, whatever good intentions we may have at the start of the festive season, Christmas ends up being a time of overindulgence. Too much chocolate

  • Pay Day

    Running a household is like running a business. Income comes in, costs go out and, at the end of the month or year, in the case of most businesses, you are hopefully in a net position. Just as with a business, households incur peaks of expenditure and

  • Passing on business skills

    RICK MAIN & ASSOCIATES FOR local businessman Rick Main, redundancy from MG Rover did not mean the end of his career - instead, he set up his own business with the help of Mustard.uk.com's Fast Start programme and financial assistance from Bromsgrove

  • Our Exhibitors

    A list of all 52 exhibitors! Frocks n Flowers Brookfield Photography Marie-Louise Wedding Photography Retro Rentals Ltd Annaliza Bridalwear Cake Magic Lasting Image Photography Chocolate Fountain Heaven Ultimate Wedding Cars Paris Cars Chocolate Fever

  • You'll Be Converted

    SPRING 2007 marks the introduction of BMWs new 3 Series Convertible. Available initially in 325i and 335i guises, but followed closely by smaller engined variants and diesel-powered models, BMWs new open-top will deliver the ultimate in performance and

  • Lie back, relax and let Marie do the rest

    Ellen Branagh walks away with healthier, happier skin after this beauty treatment. MADONNA and Julia Roberts use it, so when a mere mortal like me was given the chance to sample a Dr Hauschka beauty treatment I couldn't really refuse, could I? Never one

  • Motor Legends

    IF you believe the romantic notion that cars have soul, then the engine is the hearbeat and the epicentre of a car's character. A great car can be ruined by a characterless power unit, while a merely average one can be elevated to an object of worship

  • Getting hitched on a shoestring

    You want the elegance, you want the sophistication, you want the class, you want your wedding to be remembered as the best day of your life. But at what price, and does a tight budget mean you and your guests will be missing out? If you'd prefer to avoid

  • Frome Barn, Castle Frome

    WHAT IS IT? Three-bedroom, light, 1940sq ft attached stone barn conversion with large garden to the rear and side. WHERE IS IT? In the historic county of Herefordshire WHAT'S INSIDE Downstairs *Large kitchen/dining room with open plan area *Large sitting

  • Popping the question

    Even if you aren't really into the whole romance thing, there's absolutely no excuse for not treating your partner like the shining star that they really are just prior to popping the question - or for the rest of the time for that matter. The build up

  • Off the beaten track...

    The dreamy, sunshine island of St. Lucia has moved ahead of Barbados and Mauritius as the top choice for British weddings overseas, according to a new survey. An American Express Travel Weddings & Honeymoons report shows that overall, the large Caribbean

  • Go on, relight my fire

    It's cold, wet and miserable outside. Curl up next to one of these fancy fires. Cadenza suite complete fireplace in a box. Unusual basket fire. Majestic Arch. Passion 2 hole in the wall fire. Corello fire. Soprano FS sand-metallic with surround Rodez

  • Welcome to the Iron Age

    An Aga cooker is surprisingly easy to own. 2-oven aga with freestanding module 3-oven aga with integrated module - gas hob option 4-oven oilfired aga. Available from the AGA shop at Hills of Ledbury, Beggars Ash, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1LQ. Tel:

  • A mother's love

    The most important person in any wedding is the bride and the most important person to the bride - especially before the event - is usually the bride's mother. The enormous amount of care and attention which is all part of making the bride look as glamorous

  • Perfect place for a winter getaway

    With the nights drawing in, Lauren Murray falls for a hotel with a difference. The Verzon is a luxury hotel perfect for a winter getaway. Once a stunning Georgian country house and now a unique hotel, The Verzon is set in over four acres of grounds and

  • Bridal fashion

    Blushing brides have never had it so good when it comes to deciding what to wear on their big day. Elegance, sophistication, style and choice ooze from every high street bridal store - and even many supermarkets these days - offering a vast spectrum of

  • Midsummer nights in the balistic Baltic

    What better way to explore chic city culture and the history of Eastern Europe than onboard a recent addition to P&O's fleet, the Artemis. Peter Mason braves the seas. We'd been looking forward to our luxury cruise with the anticipation of a three-year-old

  • For better, for worse... whatever the weather

    Summer is the season of love, or so it may seem from the number of weddings that take place in Britain during the months of May to September. Around sixty per cent of all marriages in England and Wales take place during these months and there are various

  • Weddings - Upton Snodsbury

    KEETLEY-SMITH Elizabeth Keetley, youngest daughter of Mrs Pauline Keetley, of Upton Snodsbury, married Iain Smith, only son of Moyra and Gordon Smith, of Ayr, Scotland, at St Kenelm's Church, Upton Snodsbury. The reception was held at the Dormy House

  • Popping tbe question

    EVEN if you aren't really into the whole romance thing, there's absolutely no excuse for not treating your partner like the shining star that they really are just prior to popping the question - or for the rest of the time for that matter. The build-up

  • Experience the star treatment

    Arden Tandoori 137 High Street Henley-in-Arden Tel: 01564 792503 SIR Cliff Richard and Chris Tarrant are just two of the celebrities who have enjoyed dining out at Arden Tandoori. But you too could experience the star treatment this Christmas when the

  • Place that brought art and a prince to Pershore

    The Duke of Edinburgh was impressed by an institution that has transformed a town's cultural landscape, as Andrea Calvesbert discovered For an amazing example of community spirit, look no further than Number 8 in Pershore. The fact that this community

  • Streets with everything from shops to solicitors

    Andrea Calvesbert takes a wander down Worcester's historic central thoroughfares and finds top-notch shopping and services - plus plenty of places to eat and drink on the way. A wander down Worcester's High Street, past The Shambles and into Foregate

  • The pretty town that's not just for the tourists

    When the visitors have gone, the people who live in Winchcombe just get on with their lives, discovers Andrea Calversbert Winchcombe manages to combine two roles as a picturesque old Cotswold town that tourists love to visit which also retains its own

  • Counting down to a perfect day

    * Fifteen months to six months: See the minister, priest or rabbi to book the big day. Register office weddings can also be booked well in advance. Book reception venue and caterers/ band/disco. Start deciding what you are going to wear and plan well

  • Who wears the trousers?

    You do - if you want a stylish look for autumn which will keep you covered up as the weather turns cooler but still show off your legs All items from the Michle Winter 2006 collection. Available from FL Cox, Newtown Road, Malvern. Tel: 01684 575949

  • Sparkling gift is measure of love

    NOWADAYS at least 75 per cent of engaged couples choose a diamond ring. The best and rarest diamonds are colourless, but those with a strong pure colour are highly prized. Weight is measured in carats - 100 points per carat. A quality cut gives a brilliant