CHIPPING Norton's first farmers' market proved a big hit with stallholders and shoppers alike. It was held last Thursday when the sunshine certainly seemed to bring out the shoppers, much to the delight of stallholders, such as organic farmer Mark Payne
A GROWING Stour valley firm is confident that it will be allowed to develop its base near Shipston for housing. Objections from residents and from planning officers forced Underground Building Supplies Ltd (UGS) to withdraw its original planning application
IT was an action-packed weekend for the village of Whichford, near Shipston, when African dancers and a charity concert added a touch of spice to the annual flower show. The dance and drumming troupe, Brekete, have been carrying out a series of workshops
A DEAL could soon be struck to avert a potential crisis in the amount of land available for burials in Chipping Norton. The town council, the field reeves - who care for much of the town's common land - and Oxfordshire County Council are close to signing
A WORCESTER city councillor has been likened to 1960s firebrand Enoch Powell for criticising plans for affordable homes in Warndon Villages. Coun Martin Clarke told the policy and resources committee he was concerned at proposals for 152 homes at Trotshill
TRADERS were left mopping up the mess when the town was flooded by torrential rain. Saturday staff were closing up at 5.30pm when tides of water flooded the W H Smith store, in Victoria Square. Supervisor Tracey Stanley said: "Water was three inches deep
CONSERVATIVES on Worcester City Council have been accused of performing a "humiliating U-turn" over the Perdiswell park-and-ride. Last month, Tories on the policy and resources committee voted the defer a decision on the release of more than £200,000
POLICE are still trying to identify the body of a man - believed to have Worcester links - found in a Coventry hotel room. He was found at the Ibis Hotel in Cheylesmore, where he had give his address as Foregate Street, Worcester. But the address was
A BEWDLEY man who carried out a sex crime on an eight-year-old girl has been jailed for two years. David Powell offered the child money to touch him after he undid his trousers, Worcester Crown Court heard. The 30-year-old from Wassell Drive, Wribbenhall
POLICE are still trying to identify the body of a man - who could have had Kidderminster links - found in a Coventry hotel room. He was found at the Ibis Hotel in Cheylesmore, where he had give his address as Foregate Street, Worcester. But the address
THE second in a series of special concerts takes place in Stratford tonight (Thursday). Stephan Loges, winner of last year's Wigmore Hall International Song Competition, and his pianist partner and co-winner, Alexander Schmalcz, take to the stage at the
BEETHOVEN rolls (over) into town next month to mark the end of a summer season of concerts. Compton Verney is the venue for The Kingdom of the Spirit on September 9, a concert dedicated to the life and works of the famous composer. Performed by the Medici
GARDENS open in aid of the National Gardens Scheme: SUNDAY: Barn House, Upper High Street, Broadway, teas, 10am to 6pm. Pear Tree Cottage, Gotherington, plants and tea, 2pm to 6pm. Tysoe Manor, 5m NE of Shipston, teas, 2pm to 6pm. TUESDAY: Tinpenny Farm
SUNDAY: Broadway Tower/Snowshill, at 10am for a six-mile hilly walk. Details: 01608 663190. Starting at New Street car park, a 16-mile walk taking in Todenham, Ebrington and Ilmington, at 9.15am. Leaders: Ann and Clive Jones. Pub lunch available if required
AROUND 600 people turned up for the 52nd annual Droitwich Horticultural Show, ensuring the event was a blooming success. Green-fingered enthusiasts turned out in force to see the colourful displays at the Droitwich and District Horticultural Society event
WYCHAVON residents are being urged to blow the whistle on dog -owners who refuse to clear up their pet's faeces. The district council's environmental health section is stepping up its campaign to target irresponsible culprits and wants local people to
ALTHOUGH a resident of Pershore for the past 14 years I still have a soft spot for Evesham after living there for 12 years. I agree with Vernon Powell. When we arrived in Evesham 26 years ago the first thing that caught my eye was the attractive tree-lined
AN article which appeared on the front page of the Evesham Journal recently was shown to us. We are a group of adults who have learning difficulties. We were disgusted that you reported Mr Bruno's comments as positive. If any of us were out with a support
A MAN who denied an attempted street robbery has pleaded guilty to affray. Alan Dyke, 23, of Windmill Close, Stourport, was remanded on bail for sentence next month. He was facing trial at Worcester Crown Court accused of trying to rob two boys, aged
WE have heard a lot over recent months about the Tories cutting costs in the local district council, they have certainly cut services that benefits you the resident. The question is why? And will it result in a net saving in the end? The district council
TODAY'S Britain. It is good to sit back and consider the world about us. Are we proud of the way it is progressing? For example the increasing degree of depravity on TV. If not, what should we do about it? I think it is a characteristic of most people
HOW many readers of the Journal Series are concerned for the future of our world? Whether it be crime, corruption, drugs, pollution of all description, social values, health care, education, indeed any matter which causes concern within our British society
AS the Sarah Hampton Sunshine Appeal takes off and promises to make a huge contribution to the relief of suffering among abandoned children in Romania, the Shuttle/Times & News is inviting readers to use our offices as collection points for gift boxes
Bredon 1, Newent Town 0 NEWLY promoted Bredon were given a baptism of fire by Newent in their first fixture of the new season. From the whistle Newent pressed and outfought a disorganised Bredon who were fortunate not to concede when a ferocious shot
I WISH Musgrove and co could have been with me, my daughters and son and other family members as my husband lost his fight for life in the High Dependency Unit in Kidderminster Hospital on August 11. Every stop was pulled out for him, everything was done
THE Evesham Hospital and Charity Cup competition has donated £150 to St Richards Hospice and the same amount to the Air Ambulance from last season's knockout tournament. The closing date for entries for the 2000/2001 competition is Saturday, September
PERSHORE drew a Bank Holiday blank in front of goal as they collected just a solitary point from their two weekend Midland Com-bination outings. But, it could have been worse for Colin Shep-herd's side, who lost goalkeeper Turner after half-an-hour of
AS a member of one of the caring professions working in the National Health Service, I am getting more and more saddened by the use of the words "bed-blockers", a term which has become very common in the everyday language of the "new NHS". The term is
TALENTED Wyre Forest youngsters got down to the bare bones during their summer holidays as they took a crash course in archaeology. Pupils from Franche Middle School, St John's CE Middle School and Burlish Middle School were among 150 selected from schools
Evesham United 3, Rugby United 2 A BLISTERING Bank Holiday Mon-day clash left exhilarating Evesham on top of the table and eager for more, writes Mervyn Collins. Twelve points out of 12 has left the Common Road two points clear in the Western Division
AT last the truth is out! The real reason for the downgrading of Kidderminster Hospital has been admitted. The health correspondent of BBC Midlands Today, Andrew Tomlinson, in the regional news magazine after the 6pm news on Wednesday, August 23, quoting
A FOUNDATION set up to boost the image of carpet has appointed a new broom from one of Kidderminster's foremost firms. Rupert Anton, of Victoria Carpets, has been appointed marketing director at the Carpet Foundation - a post he held at Victoria for five
THE widow of Broadway fireman Frank Trowman who died in a motorcycle accident on Fish Hill in February, is calling for road improvements to prevent another tragedy. Mr Trowman, aged 50, died when his Suzuki bike spun out of control as he negotiated a
SUE and Terry Waters from Wickhamford hit the right note when they raised £145 for the St John Ambulance Appeal at their home last Saturday. They held a musical coffee morning from 10.30am and Mrs Waters entertained friends and neighbours by playing tunes
HISTORY will be made in more ways than one when the 75th Stourport Carnival hits the streets this weekend. And there is sure to be a fantastic atmosphere among the 40,000 expected visitors as the town enjoys the extravaganza over two days for the first
A VALE woodland area is the latest site to fall victim to the vandals. "Mindless morons" removed the gatepost to the entrance of Eoves Wood, opposite Little Orchard caravan park in Hampton, and attacked and damaged about 50 saplings last Thursday, leaving
UNPREDICTABLE weather and a lack of a carnival procession did nothing to dampen the Bank Holiday spirit in Bidford this week. Organisers of the village Gala Day, which was held on the Big Meadow on Monday in place of the annual carnival, described it
ACTING headteachers at Bretforton First School have said they are pleased with their recent Ofsted report. The school, which has 61 pupils aged between four and 10, had its second inspection in June when three inspectors spent three days at the school
DISABLED children from Stratford and all over south Warwickshire were able to try their hands at a range of new activities this summer, thanks to the ILEAP scheme. ILEAP (Inclusive Leisure, Education, Activity Project) saw 33 young people, aged from five
IT'S TIME for blokes to put on their pinnies and get into the kitchen - men are being challenged to bake cakes for the Broadway Horticultural and Craft Show. That's just one of the 83 contests to be judged at one of the best village shows in the Cotswolds
PLANS for a two-storey communal dwelling at Kanes Foods in Middle Littleton, to house 38 foreign workers, have been submitted to Wychavon District Council. Owner, Dr John Randall has drawn up plans for a large house to be set between two he already owns
VILLAGERS in Aldington are back to square one now a new application for a gipsy caravan site has been lodged with Wychavon District Council. They fought and won a case on appeal earlier this year to have the previous illegal occupier Randy Ingram evicted
A FUNDRAISING appeal launched when a six-year-old Spa schoolboy's life was cut short by cancer has raised £6,000. Alistair Wainwright died on May 12 this year after a year-long battle against a brain tumour. In the wake of his death, parents Deborah and
A NINE-YEAR-OLD girl, believed to be from Droitwich Spa, sustained a serious head injury after she fell off her horse at a riding competition. The unnamed rider was to compete in the Broughton Green Horse Show, in Goose Hill, Hanbury, on Bank Holiday
AN academically gifted Spa family has celebrated an outstanding year of exam success. The Gylee family, of Foxhunter Close, boasts three exam successes thanks to hard work and dedication. Last Thursday, youngest family member Elizabeth, aged 16, received
A 17FT triangular monument has been proudly placed in the grounds of a stately home near Droitwich Spa. The National Trust has bestowed the gardens of Hanbury Hall with a wooden obelisk which can be found in the Wilderness Garden. The feature is part
BRIGHT sparks at an established Droitwich Spa girls' school were delighted with top class GCSE results. The long summer wait was finally over on Thursday for 12 students at Whitford Hall and Dodderhill School, in Crutch Lane, when they discovered if their
HARD working girls at Whitford Hall and Dodderhill School achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in their GCSE exams for the fourth year running. It was headteacher Margaret Maybee's last exam results day because she has decided to retire after 13 years as
AN internationally reno-wned healing minister is coming to Droitwich Spa to 'cure' the sick. Evangelist the Rev Melvin Banks claims he uses the power of God to heal and has a number of miracle stories under his belt. He will be at the Emmanuel Church,
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
WORCESTER City boss John Barton has been given permission to bring in loan signings to bolster his squad. Club chairman Dr Michael Sorensen says Barton can bring in fresh players on a short-term basis after being hit by a spate of injuries and suspensions
TOURISTS visiting the Spa can benefit from a new handbook to make shopping and eating in the town simpler. Wychavon District Council is launching a new look visitor guide early next year. More than 25,000 copies of the Worcestershire Heritage Garden Visitor
VIKRAM Solanki came to Wor-cestershire's rescue on the first dya of the Championship match against Warwickshire at Edgbaston yesterday. Solanki, who was Worcestershire's match winner in the nine wickets success over Warwickshire at New Road last week,
THE Spa's annual flower show proved to be a blooming marvellous day out for August Bank Holiday fun seekers. Green-fingered residents turned out in force on Monday to see the colourful displays at the event hosted by Droitwich Spa and District Horticultural
TWO unbeaten centuries have won Kempsey's Andy Howorth our Evening News/Duncan Fearnley Cricket Sales Ltd. Cricketer of the Week award. He hit an unbeaten 183 against Avoncroft out of a total of 245-6 from 40 overs. Howorth then scored 106no against Overbury
Jarn can return to winning ways in the Frenger Systems Fortune Stakes at Epsom tomorrow. The Ben Hanbury-trained colt looked destined for better things when scoring at Newbury on his first start this season, showing an impressive turn of foot to come
A SPA student is banking on success in her new career after scooping a top degree. Emma Dorsett, of Vernon Grove, recently achieved an impressive upper second class degree in psychology with management at the University of Central Lancashire. The former
KIDDERMINSTER'S Malcolm Oldnall caused one of the major shocks in the Yoplat All England Bowls Championships when he took the scalp of newly-crowned triples title holder Stan Lant from Northumberland in the opening round of the singles at Worthing last
A CAR driver was flown to hospital after being cut free from his vehicle after a crash. Robert Cooper, who suffered broken legs and arms, was trapped in his Ford Escort for 45 minutes. Firefighters removed the roof and lifted him over the back seats.
AROUND 100 people turned out last night to back the launch of an initiative to improve life on their Malvern estate. Local people will have a chance to influence how the estate is run following the launch of the Elgar Avenue Residents' Association. The
RESIDENTS in Wyre Forest have been urged to have their say in shaping the future of the district in the next decade. Wyre Forest District Council is undertaking a review of its local plan which will set the framework for planning decisions on housing,
CHILDREN'S time-keeping in Cleobury Mortimer is casting a shadow over the community. Since the summer festival, children have been learning to tell the time by the sun using the shadow of their bodies to mark the minutes on a "clock face". To celebrate
100 years ago September 1, 1900 Stratford: AT a meeting of Stratford Rural District Council on Friday, the medical health officer reported a case of enteric fever at Henley-in-Arden. It was impossible to report with certainty the source of the infection
100 years ago September 1, 1900 Evesham: THOMAS Winchurch, of no fixed abode was sentenced to seven days in Worcester Gaol for being drunk and disorderly in Bridge Street on August 25. PC Groves said he saw the prisoner in the street about midnight. He
A LIBRARIAN is searching for "silver surfers" to visit a cyber site where they can key into the new computer age. Stourport Library's Jenny Lythall, who has discovered many senior citizens are keen to learn how to use the Internet, has created a cyber
TWO unbeaten centuries have won Kempsey's Andy Howorth our Evening News/Duncan Fearnley Cricket Sales Ltd. Cricketer of the Week award. He hit an unbeaten 183 against Avoncroft out of a total of 245-6 from 40 overs. Howorth then scored 106no against Overbury
THE new snooker season can't come quickly enough for Worcester professional Dave Finbow as he prepares for his ninth year on the circuit. After last season, which saw him rise from number 52 on the world ranking list to 39, Finbow is now aiming to gain
PERSHORE won an entertaining match when they entertained second in the table Pedmore at The Bottoms on Saturday. The visitors won the toss and invited the home side to bat first on an excellently prepared wicket. After losing two quick wickets, Chris
POOR fielding and bowling let Bidford off the hook at Elmley Castle on Saturday. Having restricted the visitors to just 98-4 off 34 overs, John Rogers hit 69 to help Bidford post 212-6. Unbeaten knocks of 36 and 29 from Jamie Rogers and Chris Whiting
ELMLEY Castle stages a benefit match for Worce-stershire's Stuart Lampitt on Monday. The Cotswold Hills League hosts will face a Stuart Lampitt Benefit XI containing several county stars including David Leatherdale, Vikram Sola-nki, Phil Weston and Rich-ard
CAMPDEN Young Cricketers Under-13s registered a 130-run triumph over visitors Hook Norton in the last of their end of season friendlies. Batting first Campden openers Tim Peachey and Mark Boydell got their team off to a flying start with 31 off four overs
THE Cotswold Hills League Premier Division title could be decided across a committee room table. Exhall and Wixford were deducted five points at last Wednesday's executive committee meeting for failing to ring in a result on July 15 - a move that leaves
BILL Alexander directs two great plays by William Shakespeare at the Birmingham Rep from September 1 to October 7, prior to a major national tour. The first is Twelfth Night, a joyous romantic comedy, staring Rakie Ayola as the beautiful Viola and Gerald
JAMES Sargant took his last curtain call as the Royal Shakespeare Company's director of touring this week. He began working for the company in 1971 as production controller, but his career with the RSC has seen him work in London as Barbican administrator
THE Fleece in Bretforton has become a second home for Miss Mossie's Theatre Company which is returning to the Vale inn with its latest production on Saturday. Miss Mossie's Theatre Company was founded in 1977 as a tourism offshoot of an established Birmingham
The last night of the Proms A fun-filled evening packed with Proms classics is promised at the Last Night of the Ragley Proms concert at Ragley Hall, Alcester, tomorrow (Friday). Nicholas Smith will conduct the Performing Arts Symphony Orchestra through
New season AUDIENCES can enjoy a variety of events in Birmingham Repertory Theatre's autumn and winter season. The new season includes the world premiere of the Eastern classic The Ramayana. Alan Ayckbourn's Christmas comedy Absurd Person Singular and
FRIDAY CLUB: Tomorrow (Friday) the Friday Club meet at the Royal British Legion Hall at 3pm when the guest speaker will be Barbara Cheales. All welcome. No meeting on 15th as there will be an outing instead. BAND ON THE GREEN: On Sunday afternoon, the
BREDON VINTAGE AND CLASSIC CAR RALLY: This was a very enjoyable afternoon with in excess of 500 people to the event. Around 120 cars were on show from 1913 to the 1990s. Money raised was £450, and will be given to Bredon Hancock's First School. Cups were
SHEAR HOUSE WEDNESDAY COFFEE CLUB: A most enjoyable morning was had by 37 members. It was a special morning Mrs Daisy Burdett was celebrating her 90th birthday and a basket flower arrangement was presented to her in thanks for all her hard work in the
ANNUAL SUMMER SHOW 2000: List of winners: Sarah Grant Memorial Cup (lady with most points) Jane Hart; Challenge Shield (most points in show) Eric Williams; RHS Banksian Medal (most points classes 1-78) Eric Williams; most points in vegetable classes 25
WHIST DRIVE: Fifteen tables were in play at the weekly whist drive, held at the village hall on Thursday evening, August 24. The event was organised by Miss F Ricketts and Mrs B Hodges, to raise funds for the County Air Ambulance Service. Mr John Chester
PARISH COUNCIL: Minutes of meeting held on August 9: Present: P Bastow, M Smith, J Poulter, Mrs Beavan, Carol Smith, Sherry Webb, district councillor Noyes and county councillor Birchley. The minutes of the meeting held on June 14 were signed as a true
Evesham Wednesday CABBAGE Duncan £1.80 to £2.50 crate, primo £2.20 to £2.50 crate, savoy £3 to £4 crate, dutch white £2.30 to £2.40 crate, cauliflower £3.60 doz, stick beans 10p to 3op lb, sprouts £5 net, peas 30p to 35p lb, courgettes 10p to 18p lb,
LADY Captain's day at Broadway proved a huge success as 86 competitors contested a stableford event. Molly Kingsmith amassed 41 points to take top spot ahead of Jenny Brotherton (39). Both ladies received a desirable piece of luggage. Nearest the Pin
A BUSINESSMAN from Hartlebury has been rewarded for his efforts in helping young people start and nurture their own firms. Officials at The Prince's Trust, which provides low-interest loans, bursaries and support to young people who would not otherwise
JEREMY Robinson recorded his highest finishing spot of the European Tour season to replenish his hopes of retaining his card. The 34-year-old Evesham golfer finished tied ninth at Gleneagles Hotel in the Scottish PGA Championship and picked up a welcome
A DYNAMIC duo from Kidderminster have hit the fast road to success thanks to the Prince's Trust business scheme. Paul Burgess and Chris Bogh have enjoyed six busy months since setting up their Funnel Web Solutions firm, which creates websites on the internet
QUESTIONS on how to succeed in business, and even win an award, come into focus for the business community this autumn. Members of the 102-strong Wyre Forest Business Club are due for advice on Wednesday from speaker Peter Field, chairman of the trustees
THERE was a distinct sporting flavour when national upholstery store ScS opened its doors for the first time on Kiddermin-ster's Crossley Retail Park on Thursday. Kidderminster Harriers manager Jan Molby performed the opening of the £500,000 superstore
A KIDDERMINSTER man has been recognised by the building trade for his work on a Worcester development of Victorian-style houses. Chris Turner, who is a site manager for David Payne Homes, won a Quality Award from the National House Building Council for
Repertory, Birmingham - Twelfth Night Friday until October 4. Malvern Theatres - God Only Knows Tonight until September 9. Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham - Wizard of Oz until Saturday. Grand, Wolverhampton - Eternal Flame Wednesday until September 16.
SIX Wyre Forest businesses, ranging from a computer firm to a fishmonger, have been shortlisted in the We're In Business Awards backed by the Shuttle/Times & News. They are: The Wash House, of Wilden Lane, Stourport. Boots, of the Swan Centre, Kidderminster
ELDERLY people in Bromsgrove are set to benefit from a new £1m sheltered housing complex. District council chairman Councillor Ann Doyle will officially cut the ribbon at Oak Apple Court in Catshill on Friday, September 8. Coun Doyle said it gave her
Tunnel Barn Farm HOUSE One is fishing excellently with regular match weights of 60lb plus. Carp to 5lbs are the main species but crucians, bream, hybreds and barbel are all putting in an appearance. House Two is good for small carp and tench with better
WYCHAVON Championship winner Simon Roff bagged a best ever weight of 22lbs and 11ozs to take the prestigious title on the Avon on Monday. The winner received the trophy from the chairman of Wychavon District Council David Folkes. Results: 1 S Roff (peg
IF you are a pensioner and have problems of any sort - benefits, housing, help at home, and so on - free advice is available on the end of a telephone line. If you would like advice on any topic, please call our advice line- 0845 300 7585 (open every
IN bygone days, Worcester was the home of a rich diversity of manufacturing. The city was, indeed, the glove capital of the planet. Now all those firms have either closed down or moved elsewhere. The old railway marshalling yards lie derelict. In regard
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
A NATIONAL nightclub chain is set to bring a feast of high profile live entertainment to Kidderminster when it sets up shop in the town next month. Zanzibar, which is due for a mid-September launch, promises five bars, live bands, cabaret and showman
STAFF and students at Kidderminster College are hoping for a bright future after hearing that acting principal Andrew Miller has been given the post permanently. Senior officials said Mr Miller was appointed "in the face of very stiff competition" after
A PART-TIME courses exhibition evening is being held tonight at Kidderminster College. Tutors from a wide range of subjects will give demonstrations including floristry, drawing and painting, pottery, hair and beauty plus many more. Staff will be on hand
A RESULT was inadvertently omitted from the list of A level results at Stourport High School. Apart from the two results reported, Andrew Logan also passed art and design (sculpture).
Key to subjects A = art, B = biology, BS = business studies, C = chemistry, DT = design and technology, EL = English literature, ES = environmental science, F = French, FM = further maths, G = geography, GS = general studies, H = history, HE = home economics
PUPILS at Harry Cheshire High School achieved GCSE pass grades in the number of subjects shown, with the number at grades A* - C indicated in brackets. Year 13: Darren Potter 1 (1). Year 12: Emma Carter 1 (1), Amanda Chadwick 1, Emma Crisp 1 (1), Matthew
STOURPORT High School pupils have achieved the following GCSE passes, with the numbers at grades A* - C indicated in brackets. Katie Ainsworth 8 (8), Catherine Andrews 7, Debra Andrews 9 (8), Sharon Baker 3, Samantha Barker 7 (1), Stacey Barratt 8, Neil
A FOUR-star performance from a Kidderminster girl helped Holy Trinity School achieve an excellent set of exam results. Four of Claire Baker's 10 GCSE A grades were A*, the highest possible grade at that level. She will move into the Kidderminster school's
BACK in 1940, the country got a nasty wake-up call when the so-called Phoney War ended and we took up arms for real, writes Victoria Minett. Things had been relatively quiet since the invasion of Poland and the declaration of war against Germany. But
When I settled back in Blockley during the mid-1950's, I began researching my mother's family including her brothers, sisters and all my cousins and their spouses. I then started to research my grandmother, grandfather and their brothers and sisters.
YOUNG people in the Vale of Evesham are being encouraged to contact the CAB if they need advice - particularly next week designated by the Citizens Advice Bureau as National Advice Week 2000. Staff at centres in Evesham and Pershore are using the nationwide
The whole country was mobilised during World War Two in a bid to beat the enemy. The men may have been fighting at the front, but back home women were doing their bit by working in factories and on the land. An army of female farm workers - the landgirls
A SELF-confessed "townie" from Stourport is living out a childhood dream - surrounded by animals in an idyllic farm haven. Tracy Ballard, 40, has been running the eight-acre Menagerie Children's Farm in the tiny village of Abberley for six years, and
A STRATFORD man whose war with cable giant ntl has raged for more than two years has thanked MP John Maples for securing his victory. Derek Bedford, of Fairfields Walk, has battled to get cable services installed in his road after a mix-up before cable
RESIDENTS braved the rain and the wind to be among the first to enjoy Stratford's newest nature reserve, Clopton Park, at a special open day on Saturday. It was the first major event to be held since Stratford District Council decided to try to get nature
FOLLOWING last year's visit to Cadwell Park in the British Supersport Champion- ships, which ended in a broken wrist for Simon Andrews, this years Bank Holiday Monday proved to be a real scorcher for the Wick-hamford teenager riding the Unilock Const-
A FORMER member of Evesham Rowing Club, Beverley Gough, has been named as first reserve for Great Britain's Olympic Eight. The former Bowbrook School, Peopleton and King's School, Worcester pupil, whose parents live in Bishampton, moved down to London
AN Evesham video maker has become the first in Worcestershire to win a coveted distinction. Chris Smith, right, of Evesham firm PhotoCraft Studios, has become a Master Member of the Institute of Videography after judges saw a wedding video he filmed in
IF you're a parent of a school-age child then you're bound to be having the back-to-school nightmare. Next week thousands of children will reach the end of their lengthy summer holidays, but before they hit the books they'll be hitting the shops for essentials
ONE of the Cotswolds' top tourist attractions is now in new hands after two friends stepped in to buy it. Folly Farm, which is home to Europe's largest collection of domestic waterfowl, has been bought by friends Colin Mathews and Jonathan Kenwright,
BLOCKLEY gardeners defied the difficult summer to show off their green-fingered skills over the weekend. Despite the problems faced by gardeners everywhere this year, Blockley Horticultural Society's summer show last Saturday was a resounding success.
STOW Disability Association members have hit back to dismiss criticism of the association's day centre. Earlier this month (August) the management of the centre and the association's activities came in for criticism from a Moreton couple, Bob and Eileen
COUNCILLORS have been accused of snubbing Wyre Forest's disabled after voting down a proposal to provide much-needed parking spaces. Wyre Forest MP David Lock is livid with councillors on Wyre Forest Highways Partnership Forum who declined to create three
DETECTIVES hunting a rapist who struck in a Worcester park were quizzing a man today in connection with the attack. Police said a man "local" to Worcestershire had been arrested yesterday and was helping officers with their inquiries. They would not be
A FOUR-year-old boy could be facing a walk of almost three miles to and from school every day - because he is too young for a free bus pass. Harrison Cooper is due to start at Flyford Flavell First School in September - five months before his fifth birthday
AMBULANCE chiefs could have a shortfall of paramedics early next year as they bid to meet national eight-minute response times. Current recruitment difficulties mean Hereford and Worcester's service could be around 14 paramedics down by next year. New
FIVE new high dependency ambulances, fitted out with hi-tech equipment, have been unveiled by ambulance trust chiefs. The £30,000 vehicles will help ease pressure on front-line paramedics and cope with a range of patients from mini-stroke victims to asthmatics
AROUND 100 people turned out last night to back the launch of an initiative to improve life on their Malvern estate. Local people will have a chance to influence how the estate is run following the launch of the Elgar Avenue Residents' Association. The
THE mobile telephone company One 2 One has been accused of "blackmail" in its latest bid to put a mast on a Worcestershire hillside. The firm has applied again for a mast at Tinkers Coppice, a site of special scientific interest near Martley, after being
WORCESTER will pay tribute to its Merchant Navy war veterans this weekend with the first day of remembrance for the former seamen. Merchant Navy Day will be celebrated around Britain by Second World War veterans, who fought for their country. The Government
KIDDERMINSTER now has its very own West End star after a 10-year-old won a part in the world-famous musical Les Miserables. Jimmy Chamberlain will take centre stage at London's Palace Theatre after beating off dozens of rivals for his spot in the sensational
THE long-awaited Stourport Relief Road is back on track after fears it had been by-passed by the authorities. Worcestershire County Council has agreed to look again at the possibility of a relief road to ease traffic congestion in Stourport town centre
A PERSHORE pub has lined up some new names for its regular live music sessions. The Millers Arms in Bridge Street is the place to be tonight (Thursday) when Jim Richardson plays. This is followed next Wednesday with the monthly folk club session and next
PERSHORE Abbey organist Ian Gerrard is one of the organisers of a George Gershwin concert in the Abbey on September 28, which is being held to raise funds for two local children's charities. Acorns Children's Hospice Trust helps local children who are
A DROITWICH Spa nurse who made a pact with a triple heart bypass patient to climb Britain's highest mountain after her operation is to see her wish fulfilled. Cardiac rehabilitation sister Linda Barratt, from Worcester Road, struck a bond with patient
A CONTROVERSIAL beauty spot in Droitwich Spa will become a shopping centre -- despite a ten-year battle to block development. Primsland Estates Limited has won an appeal to build two shops including a convenience store off Primsland Way. Plans were opposed
AN internationally-renowned hea-ling minister is coming to Droitwich on a mission to cure the sick. Evangelist the Rev Melvin Banks, who says he uses the power of God to heal and has a number of miracle stories under his belt, will be at the Emmanuel
THE rising of tempers at the Guildhall last night may have seemed unsavoury to some, hardly in keeping with the good order desired at a policy and resources meeting. But, in locking horns over 'affordable' housing in Warndon Villages, councillors Martin
THURSDAY: Brierley Hill: Robin R'n'B - Phil Hilborne Band. Wolverhampton: Robin R'n'B2 - Eraser. Birmingham: Ty's Bar - Big Joe Pleasure & Ivory Dan McCormack. FRIDAY: Stourbridge: The Shed - Subterraneans. Brierley Hill: Robin R'n'B - Night at the
JOHN Barton has seen fit to correct me in the dropping of one word, irrelevant really because bloodsports are bloodsports, whatever the perpetrators' name. My main argument was, and still is that politics have no place at a village carnival, and politics
IWAS a little concerned over the article 'Council dumps renewal scheme' and feel the position should be clarified. Wychavon District Council's decision to de-declare Bengeworth as a Renewal Area results directly from the loss of Government subsidy with
I WOULD like to thank the many people who phoned and wrote supporting my letter to The Journal (July 13). One lady sadly missed the point of my letter. If she would like to re-read the contents it was not a criticism of the river carnival, which was a
I WAS recently privileged to attend the monthly meeting of the Evesham and District Pensioners' Association. From the moment of entering the room I was made to feel part of the group. The meeting was run on a friendly efficient manner. It was not, as
I WAS interested to read Mr Beldam's article on August 10 defending the growing of GM crops. A trial is an experiment to discover the outcome: the growers, and Mr Meacher, assure us there is no harm to humans, or animals, since these crops are burnt in
A man with a £120 a week cannabis habit burgled 10 homes to feed his addiction. One victim was a Wolverley widow who was twice raided by Raymond Howles and lost a cigarette box presented to her late husband, Worcester Crown Court heard. He was caught
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
AN alcoholic who broke a three-year driving ban within two weeks has been sent to prison for five months by Kidder-minster magistrates. It was his third offence of driving while banned and his fourth of drink-driving. Stephen Westwood, 24, of East Street
A STEPPED-up appeal for support has followed the first visit of a team of opticians to Romania in memory of Sarah Hampton who was a director in her family's practice in Bromsgrove. Organisers of the foundation set up in her memory returned at the weekend
A NIGHTCLUBBER who was punched in the face has been awarded £75 compensation by Kidderminster magistrates. David Heeley, 22, of Doverdale Avenue, Comberton, was also fined £100, with £55 costs, when he admitted assaulting Timothy Cocks as he left Time
A PSYCHOLOGY student has revealed how an amazing turn of events and a personal tragedy have changed the course of her life. After returning from a mercy mission to a Romanian orphanage 20-year-old Helen Smith has vowed to devote her studies from now on
A BRAVE schoolgirl who was always ready to support others despite suffering from cancer has won a national accolade. Seventeen-year-old Louisa Murphy, of Barnfield Road, Stourport, came home from holiday to news she was chosen for a special young people's
Gresley Rovers 1, Evesham United 3 SAM Bowen marked his United debut with a second half brace sending out an ominous warning to opposing defences in the process. After sitting out the opening two Western Division games because of suspension, the former
A HAPPY camping holiday turned to horror when a gas flame flared up as a mother cooked a meal. Gillian Pead, 37, of Bredon Avenue, Kidderminster, is recovering in hospital. She suffered extensive burns to her legs and arms after the accident in Wales.
BUBBLY Evesham United fans will be hoping for more champagne stuff when the FA Cup, sponsored by AXA, comes to Common Road on Saturday. Western League Bideford are the visitors for a preliminary qualifying round tie and it's a game manager Phil Mullen
WITH reference to your article regarding the state of Kidderminster and the suggestion that community groups should clean up the town, I am sure that most people would agree that it is the council's job to clean our streets and the job of the police to
AT last the carefully thought out plans of Worcestershire's various health bodies have been spelt out! We must only be sick in carefully controlled numbers and if you do manage to get a bed then you must understand that you must leave at the first possible
EVESHAM's talking newspaper is approaching a landmark in its twenty-year history, writes Phil Sunderland. The newspaper for the blind will release its 500th edition on September 4, and to celebrate the occasion, it will be including a tape called the
FINDING inspiration will be no problem for a historian when she gets down to business in producing a book about the "marvellous" town she has come to love. Anne Bradford's publication about the history of Stourport will be the first written since Isaac
"SPORT 2000" and all that it encompasses - enhanced sport facilities for all the pupils at Lacon Childe School and adults in and around Cleobury Mortimer, a piece of land made available to build a brand new purpose-built community hall, a community park
A NEW self-help group for people with depression and related mental illnesses is up and running in Pershore. The fortnightly group is run by Sue and Donald under the auspices of Depression Alliance and aims to help people of all ages from the Vale to
A LARGE bank holiday crowd flocked to Springhill, near Broadway, to watch the action at the annual horse trials on Monday. Renowned riders such as Snowshill's Erica Watson, international eventer Blyth Tait, based at Northleach and Moreton's Anne-Marie
PERSHORE'S fourth annual Plum Festival culminated this week with the unveiling of a new variety of the fruit for the first time in almost a century. At the town's plum fair and farmers' market on Bank Holiday Monday retired carpenter Ged Witts, aged 71
SPA traders want more popular farmers' markets scheduled for the future. Following talks with shopkeepers, Wychavon District Council's economic team is working with market organisers, Sketts, in a bid to plan more markets. They are currently held four
CHILDREN in Droitwich who have battled against serious illness or shown outstanding bravery could be rewarded with a Child of Achievement Award. Nominations are being taken for the 2001 awards, which are presented to 150 children, up to the age of 16.
A SPORTING Spa trader is organising a charity fun run to raise cash for needy children. Brian Eglesfield, of Droitwich Sport, in High Street, wants generous runners to take part in the first North Worcester Fun Run on Sunday September 10. All cash raised
A CO-OPERATIVE market organised by the Spa branch of the Women's Institute is re-opening at a new venue. The weekly Friday market will be held at the newly refurbished Old Library Centre, in Ombersley Street East, from this Friday. The event, which promises
KIDDERMINSTER'S Malcolm Oldnall caused one of the major shocks in the Yoplat All England Bowls Championships when he took the scalp of newly-crowned triples title holder Stan Lant from Northumberland in the opening round of the singles at Worthing last
AMAZING talent emerged from a Wychbold nursing home when residents held an exhibition of their art and craft work. Folk at Rashwood Nursing Home, Wychbold, held a two-day exhibition last week, which coincided with a cheese and wine evening for families
STUNNING batting by Paul Lazenbury and Chris Boroughs, followed by some devastating seam bowling from Kevin Cooper saw Herefordshire to a 42-run victory over Cheshire in the final of ECB 38 County Cup at Lord's yesterday. Lazenbury and Boroughs came together
THE long and interesting history of public libraries in Droitwich Spa has been displayed to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the popular service. Bookworms visiting the town's library, in Victoria Square, may have spotted the month-long exhibition It
THE new snooker season can't come quickly enough for Worcester professional Dave Finbow as he prepares for his ninth year on the circuit. After last season, which saw him rise from number 52 on the world ranking list to 39, Finbow is now aiming to gain
FORMER Droitwich Spa High School pupils can catch up on years of gossip at a school reunion with old classmates. Tory Brettell and Carol Deacon want people who left the school in Briar Mill, in June 1977 as a fifth former or 1979 as a sixth former. The
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
THE call 'back to school' comes as a great relief to most parents who work so hard in the summer holidays to keep their children entertained, amused and happy. However the feeling can be all too different for their offspring, especially when going up
CAMPAIGNERS are rallying the public to back a renewed bid for an international carpet museum in Kidderminster. An organisation has been formed to set up a museum in the home of carpet - the only craft-based industry which does not have such an institution
A FORMER Worcester doctor and his wife were today celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary. Bruce and Peggie Milligan, who now live in Malvern, are celebrating 50 years together, having married on August 31, 1940 in Chester. Dr Milligan was a GP
A CHARGE against a Stourport licensee of assault causing bodily harm to his wife in a bar-room row has been dropped. The prosecution had asked for crown court trial for Martin Shannon, 33, of the Hope and Anchor in New Street. But eight weeks later no
MALVERN Hills and Evesham Colleges are due to be merged tomorrow. Staff from Evesham College are to visit their colleagues at Malvern and hear a talk by the principal of the new merged college, David Blades, who is currently head at Evesham. Since 1982
DRUGS within schools is another nationwide problem which affects Wyre Forest. However, police are urging headteachers and local authorities to work with them if a problem arises. PC Hewitt said: "It is a very delicate situation for schools because once
POLICE hope to stamp out illegal drug use in Wyre Forest with a new tactic in the war against the crime. New intelligence-led policing is already reaping huge successes for West Mercia Police in the district and police are warning pushers - we're coming
PEOPLE wishing to talk about God-related issues in an informal and friendly environment are being invited to join a new course beginning in Stourport. The Y course at Stourport Baptist Church is for those who would welcome the opportunity to put life's
100 years ago September 1, 1900 Upper Brailes: AT a meeting of the sub-committee appointed under the Disease of Animals Act, it was reported that sheep scab had broken out among some sheep at Blackpits in Upper Brailes. The committee made the order to
NEW bus routes have brought good news for shoppers but mixed fortunes for Kidderminster traders. First Midland Red has announced a number of services will be linked and diverted to the town's Crossley Retail Park development. However, there will also
STUNNING batting by Paul Lazenbury and Chris Boroughs, followed by some devastating seam bowling from Kevin Cooper saw Herefordshire to a 42-run victory over Cheshire in the final of ECB 38 County Cup at Lord's yesterday. Lazenbury and Boroughs came together
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
A FINE spell of hostile bowling from Andrew Van Vurron blas-ted Birlingham to a six-wicket Sunday friendly success over Broadwas. The paceman picked up 6-20 from 13 overs and it was left to Dave Clasen with a classy unbeaten 78 to take the batting honours
FRINGE for a fiver may sound like a haircut, but it's actually the title of the RSC's September spectacular. More than 40 actors, stage managers, musicians and directors from the RSC Summer 2000 Festival Season will offer an eclectic mix of entertainment
Time is running out THERE'S just two days left to catch the Stour Gallery's summer exhibition. The Shipston gallery has been showing paintings, original prints and ceramic pieces throughout August and it ends on Saturday. Opening times are 10am-1.30pm
AUTHORS worldwide are coming to Cheltenham for the town's Festival of Literature. From October 13 to 22, a host of bookish stars will be discussing, debating and disputing the theme of space and literature, looking at place, landscape, people and frontiers
AN Evesham charity is one of many celebrating after being awarded a grant from West Midlands Arts. The Garage Art Group, which teaches all aspects of arts to adults with learning difficulties, was one of the 20 projects awarded a share of £24,881 given
A FREE bus service has been set up to ferry people between Worcestershire's three hospitals from Monday. Patients, visitors and hospital staff can use a voucher scheme in operation on the new "EasyLink" buses, which will supplement the existing services
CALLING ALL DRIVERS: The Lions Club of Chipping Norton are running a Safe and Skilled Driving Competition in the New Street car park from 10am on Sunday. There will be a test of your driving skills (parking, manoeuvring and others) and a Highway Code
CHURCH NEWS: On Sunday, Rev Jane Gardner will be taking a service of Holy Communion at St. Nicholas Church at 9.30am.
WORCESTERSHIRE SPEAKERS' CLUB: How often have you wished a magic wand could be waved to help you to become a more confident assertive person, able to give impressive business presentations, make speeches or just improve your social life with bright witty
MILLENNIUM GARDEN AND CRAFT SHOW: On Saturday in Littleton village hall 12.30 to 4.30pm, free admission. Crafts, produce and cookery, all classes are open to WI members and villagers. Funds are being raised for the village hall. Everyone welcome.
SCHOOL NEWS: The primary school has a smart new playground, work was undertaken during the summer holidays to resurface the playground. School starts the new term on Tuesday. GARDEN CLUB: Longborough Garden Club starts its autumn session with a meeting
THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION PERSHORE AND DISTRICT BRANCH: The annual dinner will take place on October 1 at the Railway Inn Defford. Arrival at 12.30pm with lunch at 1pm. A choice of roast chicken, beef or lamb main course. Cost £10.50, tickets available
WILLERSEY FOOTLIGHTS: The Footlights Society holds its AGM at Willersey Village Hall on September 8. The society has raised over £8,000 for local charities and organisations and the committee wishes to thank all those who have supported them. Any enquiries
Cirencester, Tuesday CIRENCESTER Market report light steers to 86p (average 77.2p), medium to 92.5p (86.2p), heavies to 104.5p (92.4p). Light heifers to 99p, medium to 99p (88.9p), heavies to 97p (89.8p). Medium bulls to 89.5p (89.5p). Standard lambs
HORSE-lovers can now get themselves a college qualification in equine or equestrian studies by trotting down to a Wyre Forest centre. Hartlebury Equestrian Centre is one of just four to become part of the Equestrian Outreach Scheme run by Stourbridge
AFTER a highly successful first season, Shipston Mini Rugby kick-off their second season on Sunday with coaching sessions from 10.45am-12 noon. Sessions will then follow every Sunday morning and are open to boys and girls aged seven, eight, nine, ten
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
A MULTI-million pound leisure complex and hotel development creating around 180 jobs could be built in Worcestershire. The scheme would include a state-of-the-art David Lloyd Leisure Health and Fitness Club with outdoor tennis facilities, a family pub
FOOTBALLER David Ginola says (Evening News, August 21), "I am Latin and very macho. It is not a problem for my wife. She knows just to listen". This chap sounds to me like a first-class idiot. GEORGE COWLEY, Worcester.
IT was long overdue - congratulations to Richard Branson. At last he has the chance to take over the management of the Lottery. Richard Branson is a good honest man. It is time for this change. Why should fat cats and shareholders just enjoy the benefits
ON Friday, August 19, I made three phone calls to obtain information about the Three Choirs Festival. My first call was to the Citizens Advice Bureau. The lady answering could not answer my questions. I then inquired at Worcester Tourist Information Centre
AS a member of one of the caring professions working in the NHS, I am getting more and more saddened by the use of the words "bed-blockers". This is a term that has become common in the everyday language of the "new NHS". The term is applied to those
WORCESTER City boss John Barton has been given permission to bring in loan signings to bolster his squad. Club chairman Dr Michael Sorensen says Barton can bring in fresh players on a short-term basis after being hit by a spate of injuries and suspensions
ASTON Villa and England defender Gareth Barry was the main man in Bromsgrove last week. He coached youngsters at the David Campbell Superstar Soccer Roadshow on Thursday. More than 100 children attended the week-long event at Bromsgrove School. Lucky
A FEW more Elvis sightings are set to be made next month - in Bewdley! And although Adam Carter is not quite as famous as Mr Presley, he will be familiar to viewers as the man who gyrated just like the real thing on television's Stars In Their Eyes. "
JAZZ classics old and new will be belted out when the Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra comes to Kidderminster next month. According to secretary Roy Snook, the orchestra - formed about four years ago as a rehearsal band - aims to "keep the sound of Big Band
TWO hundred sixth formers returning to school next week can look forward to a transformation in their surroundings. Ready to receive them at King Charles I High School, Kidderminster, will be their luxurious brand new £500,000 headquarters. The Woodward
Key to subjects A = art, B = biology, BS = business studies, C = chemistry, DT = design and technology, EL = English literature, ES = environmental science, F = French, FM = further maths, G = geography, GS = general studies, H = history, HE = home economics
CHIPPING Campden rider Russell Marks has galloped his way to yet another success in a national competition. Russell and Julia Hoskins's Welsh section D stallion Brenig Rhys, took the honours in the Super Solvitax Mountain and Moorland veteran championship
THE future of Stratford Civic Hall could be decided at the beginning of next year, after a report into its possibilities is completed. Town clerk Richard Eggington said this week that a feasibility report into the role the hall will play in the future
CELEBRATIONS which started in Stratford on A-level results day are continuing after school pupils recorded record GCSE passes. Stratford High School and Stratford Grammar School for Girls were delighted by best-ever passes, while King Edward VI Grammar
A ROYAL Shakespeare Company carpenter, who chewed a Stratford man's ear during a fight outside a nightclub, has been cleared of acting unlawfully. Andrew Hogan, aged 33, from Cheam in Surrey, who was staying with friends in Wimpstone, near Stratford at
IT was business as usual at Evesham Sailing Club on Sunday after a week off to allow for holidays. The two races were part of the Small Craft Series and took place in humid conditions with a steadily increasing breeze. With a start down river towards
ON Sunday morning Child-swickham Gun Club held their monthly shoot - the main event being a 40-bird sporting competition. Weather conditions were ideal with 26 members and guests taking part. John Arnold set the pace by shooting his first 20 targets without
EVESHAM Wheelers' club run was supported by 24 riders last Sunday in ideal conditions. Andy Bolton led the race training run at a brisk pace through the Gloucestershire lanes around Tewkesbury to take a coffee stop along side the river Severn at Lower
IT'S the big end-of-season meeting at Prescott speed hill climb this weekend and there is plenty of action promised with top billing for the Auto Windscreens British Hill Climb championship. This is the last but one meeting in this year's series, and
MATT Neal, Britain's new Independent champion, finally made good the promise of virtually every race this season, by driving the race of his life, and winning outright round 19 of the AutoTrader British Touring Car Championship. It is only the second
BRETFORTON Ladies enjoyed the Bank Holiday weekend touring at the 23rd staging of the Salisbury and South Wilts Millennium Festival. Playing seven games in all, the local team New Sarum Ladies were the first opposition on the astro. This was a fast game
PETE Jennings' season of bad luck looks like changing after a hard-earned fifth place in the British 125 Championship race at Cadwell Park on Monday. "All of us in the team were praying for a finish at least," said Jennings. "It's been a tough season,
NO accidents in the past two years have earned a Droitwich company a top health and safety award. Rexel Business Machines, part of Acco UK, was named the Health and Safety Best Performer 2000. Spokesman Debbie Fellows said no reportable accidents for
THE only pub in a village near Worcester has been sold for £290,000 after being on the market for just three weeks. A bidding war broke out as The Pineapple Pub Company raced to buy the Rose & Crown Inn in Severn Stoke, near Kempsey. The black and
A baby girl, abandoned in the Worcestershire countryside, is still looking for a new family. Baby Thursday was just a few hours old when she was found in a black plastic bag in a lay-by near Hagley on Thursday, June 8. The little girl was discovered wrapped
WORLD record Test wicket-taker Courtney Walsh is being linked to a possible move to Worcestershire. The New Road club are in the market for an overseas star for next season as their current international player, Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath, will
EFFORTS to restore the organ in a Cotswold church were boosted with a successful flower festival last weekend. The festival in St Nicholas's Church, Oddington, ran from last Saturday until Monday and raised more than £2,000 towards the appeal for the
