West Malvern is not California (and candidates here are unlikely to resemble Arnold Schwarzenegger!) but one, and possibly two, elections are in prospect in the village in the next few weeks. It has long been a sore point with many residents that although they pay the precept levied by the Hills Conservators through the Council Tax, there is no direct representation for West Malvern on the Conservators' board - unlike most of the other parishes affected. However we do have a vote for the member for the West Ward, which includes West Malvern and other areas. This year's election (for a four-year term) will take place on Thursday, October 30, and will be contested between the sitting member David Hawkins and Chris Rouse of Croft Farm. An election could also take place for a vacancy on the parish council which has arisen as a result of the resignation of Peter Vant, who is moving to Abberley next month. If ten or more electors request it, an election will be called. If not, the parish council is empowered to make up its numbers by co-option. Watch the village notice boards for details of both elections.

West Malvern is hardly a centre of manufacturing industry! However we have at least one such successful business in the Malvern Hills Brewery. Since its establishment a few years ago, this microbrewery has won prizes for its range of beers, most recently when its Black Pear brand was voted champion beer at the 2003 Worcester CAMRA Beer & Cider Festival. Many local people have regretted that this local product was not more widely available in pubs around the area, and the innovative ready-to-brew kits previously sold through West Malvern Village Stores have been discontinued. So real ale enthusiasts (especially those planning Christmas parties!) will welcome the news that the brewery is now to market its full range direct to retail customers in 36-pint and 18-pint polypins. Further information from the brewery on 01864 560165.

On the subject of Black Pears, the group of four trees planted some years ago by the parish council just below the upper playing field have produced quite a few pears this year - not really black, more a reddish brown. Scrumpers beware, however - the pears are as hard as cricket balls and not worth nicking!

A site close to the black pear trees has been selected as the location for a memorial tree to marks the Golden Jubilee of the Queen's Coronation in 1953. The variety chosen is acer cappadocium 'Aureum'. marked by a suitable plaque. A planting ceremony is being planned to take place towards the end of the year.