THE cost of educating youngsters at schools in and around Bromsgrove had risen sharply from £10,000 a year to £11,680 in 1905. This was due mainly to salary increases given to headteachers and other staff under new pay arrangements. It was claimed that previously Bromsgrove had been thrifty regarding salaries, but now, under guidance from the county council, it was more 'extravagant.'

PROBLEM boys from the Stoke Prior Farm Reformatory were given a treat by John Green, the wealthy grocer and owner of Whitford Hall in Bromsgrove. Sporting new uniforms and after being given the order to 'dismiss' the lads were given their freedom to play and roam at will in the grounds. Later they put on a drill display and concluded the day by singing the National Anthem, after which Mr Green congratulated them on their good behaviour.

AN experiment was being carried out in Bromsgrove that could see the role of the lamplighter extinguished for ever. Mr Bird, manager of the gas works, was arranging for an ingenious device to be fitted to some lamps in New Road which could turn them on and off automatically. The clever system was at present being operated on individual lamp standards, but had the capability of being controlled from the gas works.

PREPARATIONS were in hand for a big society ball hosted by Lady Plymouth, whose family country seat was Hewell Grange. It was in honour of her daughter Lady Phyllis Clive and would take place at Mount Street - one of the best of the new Mayfair homes, which had been built by the Earl of Plymouth two years ago.