FIT Bromsgrove men were being sought to work as locomotive firemen. The London Midland region of British Railways wanted workers aged 18 to 30 to enter the one-month training programme for the position. Successful applicants could expect to work a 44-hour week, with paid holiday and free protective clothing. There would be opportunities to train as a driver.

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PROBLEMS with smoke in Stoke were discussed by Bromsgrove Rural District Council members. The authority enlisted Mr Farquharson, a senior smoke inspector for Birmingham Corporation, to investigate the situation following years of complaints from residents about smoke and fumes emitted from an aluminium factory at Stoke Wharf. Mr Farquharson said that while smoke did invade villagers' homes - legal action would not be justified because the fumes soon dispersed and no deterioration was spotted among village vegetation.

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BARNT Green residents turned out to see their neighbours take to the stage at St Andrew's Village Hall. The musical show brought the classic tale of Tom Jones to life and was a hit with the audience who reportedly clapped loud and screamed for an encore. The stage was decorated with locally provided fresh flowers.