A RADICAL new £19m treatment centre is to open in the county in a bid to slash waiting times for patients across Worcestershire awaiting minor operations. The new centre, one of four being launched across the country, will open in two phases - the first
THE new Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Rev Anthony Priddis, has put rural issues at the heart of his ministry. The former suffragan Bishop of Warwick was named as the man for the city post at a conference yesterday. Fifty-five-year-old Bishop Anthony takes
An employee who lost his job with a Hereford car rental firm made a £50,000 blackmail threat to his former boss, Worcester Crown Court was told. Lee Osborne, who worked for Hereford Vehicle Rentals for two years before being made redundant, pleaded guilty
Gloucester II 2, Bretforton II 0 RETURNING to Severn League first division action, Bretforton lost out to second half strikes at Oxtalls Campus last Saturday. The visitors made the initial openings with Sarah Bragg forcing the home goalkeeper into a save
Evesham 10, Pershore 1 EVESHAM began the new year in emphatic style as they produced a clinical performance to completely outplay their local rivals in a friendly before this weekend's resumption of league action. The long break was certainly evident
It's full steam ahead this month as the Royal Mail celebrates the launch of its latest stamp issue Classic Locomotives. The issue, which went on sale yesterday, feature six classic steam locomotives, including the Dolgoch 0-4-OT locomotive, which was
Two teenagers who mugged a pair of youngsters on the river bank in Worcester have been sent to detention. The pair, who cannot be named for legal reasons, first tried to grab a girl's mobile phone and then attacked her boyfriend when he intervened. Outlining
A MEDIAEVAL brooch found in a Worcestershire field could be kept for the county after it was declared to be treasure. The ruling was made by Worcestershire coroner Victor Round yesterday, and now it will be offered to the British Museum after being priced
MORE than 500 homes in Ombersley were left without electricity in the early hours of this morning. Supplier Aquila Networks Services Ltd put the power cut down to a small fire in a piece of equipment in the Moor Park area of the village. A spokeswoman
THE new centre will start by diagnosing and treating patients in Worcestershire, with the hope of also contracting its services out to primary care trusts across the UK, said Richard Haynes, spokesman for the county's acute trust. "While the centre will
LANDLORDS at a historic Worcester pub could face enforcement action after beginning the refurbishment of their premises without planning permission. The owners of The Green Man, in The Tything - believed to date back to the 1800s - asked the city council
A DECISION by a court to allow travellers to stay on a piece of land without planning consent could have disastrous consequences for the whole country, according to an MP. Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff has stepped in to a battle between a group of
A NIGHT of good, old country music is guaranteed in Droitwich Spa this weekend. The End of the Trail Country Music Club has invited Saddle Tramps Revival to play at the Royal British Legion Club, in Salwarpe Road, this Friday. It will start at about 8pm
RESIDENTS are invited on a whistle-stop musical tour of the British Isles at a classical concert later this month. Bromsgrove Concerts have invited revered baritone soloist Tom McVeigh to perform at the Spadesbourne Suite, in Burcot Lane, on Friday, January
A CHARITY that helps life-limited children desperately needs volunteers to help at its newly opened Pershore shop. Acorns Children's Hospice Trust has urged people to sign up and volunteer some time each week, ideally weekday afternoons and Saturdays,
DON'T forget to snap up your tickets for a top rock gig in Bromsgrove next month. Fred Zeppelin is returning by popular demand to the Lickey End Social Club, in Alcester Road, Lickey End, on Friday, February 13. The dead-ringers for Led Zeppelin guarantee
NEIGHBOURS say a large new house proposed for Kempsey would spoil a conservation area and ruin the situation of a prominent local landmark. Strong objections have been raised to the plan for a two-storey house and garage in the grounds of Woodlands, in
A LEADING Worcester city councillor has called for a clean-up of the Faithful City. Former mayor Derek Prodger has urged residents to back his campaign for a litter-busting attack on the city. Coun Prodger hopes to promote a Keep Worcester Tidy Week in
HOW far would you go to help Worcester clean up its act? When the Evening News put this to shoppers in Worcester city centre, most welcomed Councillor Prodger's plans to clean up the city - but said youngsters should do more to clean up behind them. Market
CHILDMINDERS in Worcestershire have welcomed the Government's decision not to post their names and addresses on the internet. Last year, education watchdog Ofsted announced plans to publish inspection reports on its website, including contact details
CHURCHES will be ringing the changes following the appointment of a tourism officer. Clare Phipps will be ensuring historic churches and their buildings will be at the top of the agenda after clinching the unique post covering the Diocese of Hereford.
Saturday, January 10, 2004 PAUL Szewczyk became the first Bromsgrove Rovers player in nearly eight years to score four goals in a match as his side thrashed basement boys Shepshed Dynamo 5-1. The 6ft 2in striker, who joined Rovers from Stafford Rangers
GEORGE Rooney is tipping Paul Wyatt (pictured) to develop into an "exceptional goalkeeper". The Bromsgrove Rovers boss is standing by his top choice stopper, blamed for a number of goals conceded this season, including two against Wolves last week. But
FORMER Bromsgrove Rovers player Bob Beechey has died aged 57. Mr Beechey passed away in Poole, Dorset, last month. Bob began his career at the Victoria Ground, playing half of the 1962/63 season before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers aged 16. Educated
REDDITCH police are appealing for information after racist graffiti appeared in St George's underpass on the Warwick Highway and on a property in Smallwood Street. The graffiti in the underpass appeared overnight between 5pm on Monday, December 22, and
BROMSGROVE Ladies Hockey Club Seconds began 2004 with a 5-0 victory at Worcester Norton. Despite the short notice of this re-arranged fixture, originally set for October, Clare Berrisford was able to field a strong side. Louise Clarke scored the first
THE new £19m treatment centre at Kidderminster Hospital prompts some irresistible observations today. Chief among them is that the site will now be used even more intensively than was intended when the bulk of it was closed under the controversial Investing
STUDLEY boss Mark Chambers has called on the whole of Redditch to get behind his team's courageous quest for FA Vase glory this Saturday. The Bees take on Midland Combination Premier Division outfit Leamington Spa in one of the biggest games in their
HUNDREDS of people have already taken the opportunity to enjoy peace, tranquillity and prayer at the Alexandra Hospital's new multi-faith centre. Although the centre has not been officially opened, it is up and running for use by anyone at the hospital
LIAM McDonald is winning new fans every time he pulls on the blue and white striped shirt of Worcester City. In just three starts the midfielder has established a promising partnership with John Snape, helping the St George's Lane club shed its festive
Stamps started with Torquay United despite being brought up in Birmingham and his obvious talent earned him a £10,000 move to Colchester United in 1997. The left-footer moved to Harriers on a free in September 1999 after playing in the Second Division
The versatile Gadsby was Ian Britton's first signing after the 2002/03 season, agreeing a one-year contract at Aggborough. A player with good defensive qualities in the air or on the ground, he did not figure much in a turbulent Division Two campaign
After starting off as a trainee at Liverpool, Williams was released at the age of 19 to return to his native Wrexham. The Wales U-21 international played on-off for the Second Division club but made a good impression with many for his uncompromising style
REDDITCH United boss Rod Brown has promised versatile wingback Nicky Clark he has a future at The Valley Stadium but Rob Sawyers' Reds career looks less certain. Brown has offloaded Sawyers to fellow Dr Martens Western League outfit Stourport while Clark
ROALD Dahl's popular book The Twits will be brought to life at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre for a short run from next Tuesday. The production arrives direct from a London Christmas season and "combines circus and aerial skills, trickery and physical
Continental Star 0 Feckenham 1 FECKENHAM boss Lee Adams believes the 1-0 scoreline didn't do his Midland Combination Premier Division outfit justice on Saturday. Steve Ferguson's strike 15 minutes after the break was the difference between the two sides
Parrish has enjoyed three promotions before from Division Three, twice with Northampton Town and once with Chesterfield. The competitive left-footed midfielder with an eye for goal turned down a one-year deal with Chesterfield to sign for two years with
Rocester 1 Alvechurch 3 ALVECHURCH boss Neil Bryan was left praising his team's polished performance as they rocked high-flying Rocester on Saturday. The visitors banished the frustrations of some disappointing results over recent weeks to produce one
Redditch United 1 Bedworth United 1 IT'S not a natural comparison but Redditch are facing the same problems as another United these days...the one based 200-odd miles north at Old Trafford. For like Manchester's footballing giants, teams that arrive at
The Birmingham-born front man was once known as the Flying Postman from his non-league days at Cradley Town. Williams was 23 when he broke into professional football with Swansea City and he became a well-travelled player before signing for an initial
THE Alan Barnes Quartet performs at Inkberrow's Bull's Head tomorrow evening in the first "Inkberrow Jazz" event. Organised by village businessman and jazz fan Roger Black, the appearance by the quartet is described as "quite a coup." One of the country's
The pacey striker started off at Derby as a youngster but failed to make a first-team appearance and had trial spells at Walsall, Mansfield and Oldham. Rickards ended up at Tamworth on a free in July 2001 and immediately bagged 17 goals, leading them
WORCESTER'S Huntingdon Hall offers some great live music to help banish those New Year blues this week. On Friday, The Ric Sanders Trio performs a set that spans music from traditional folk through to jazz and includes numbers from George Gershwin, Duke
Saturday, January 17 FOOTBALL Dr Martens Western - Gloucester City v Bromsgrove Rovers (3pm). Midland Football Combination Division One - Bloxwich Town v Fairfield Villa; Pilkington XXX v Barnt Green Spartak. Division Two - Droitwich Spa v Newhall United
HIMBLETON Cricket Club is hoping 2004 will bring success - and a new-look pavilion. The village club would like nothing more than to see its £70,000 redevelopment plan begin at the end of the new cricket season after two years of fund raising. But the
FORMER Bromsgrove Rovers player Bob Beechey has died aged 57. Mr Beechey passed away in Poole, Dorset, last month. Bob began his career at the Victoria Ground, playing half of the 1962/63 season before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers aged 16. Educated
NORGREN moved out of the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League's third division relegation zone after a surprise win over near neighbours and leaders Shipston Excelsior. Second half goals from Morris and an own goal gave the home side the points, while
THERE'S a triple Vale contingent in the Worcestershire FA Youth Under-18 squad to face Shropshire at Gay Meadow on Sunday. Pershore Town duo Matt Hughes and Tom Wilmot and Evesham United's Danny Deehan are in the squad for the Midland Youth Championships
THERE'S a triple Vale contingent in the Worcestershire FA Youth Under-18 squad to face Shropshire at Gay Meadow on Sunday. Pershore Town duo Matt Hughes and Tom Wilmot and Evesham United's Danny Deehan are in the squad for the Midland Youth Championships
DUE to a severe cold spell, schools had been notified that they were to close if they had less than a week's worth of fuel left. Parkside Middle, Gannow Middle, Catshill Middle and Bromsgrove CofE School were all closed. The authorities were watching
Blockley 1, Evesham Utd Robins U-10 2 THE two sides were finally able to play their first round cup tie and it was the Robins who continued their winning run against spirited opponents. United created a number of first half chances before David Stringer
A MAGNIFICENT fightback at Ilkeston on Tuesday stretched Eve-sham United's unbeaten run to five matches. The Robins trailed by two goals after 17 minutes but, amazingly, found themselves 3-2 in front six minutes after the break. Dave Busst's men hit the
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' boss Jan Molby was left fuming over Wolverhampton Wanderers' hotly disputed killer goal in last night's FA Cup third round replay at Molineux. Wolves won 2-0 after Kenny Miller struck in each half with his controversial second
WORCESTERSHIRE batsman Kadeer Ali and off-spinner Shaftab Khalid are included in England's 'A' squad for their forthcoming tour of Malaysia and India. The duo have been training at Loughborough with the England Academy in readiness for the tour which
WORCESTER City's football secretary Steve Bond has stepped down from duties after more than 10 years in the post. St George's Lane chairman Dave Boddy paid tribute to Bond, rating him the best he's worked with. Bond has resigned due to increased constraints
HEREFORD United boss Graham Turner has extended Anwar Uddin's loan deal for another month. The Bristol Rovers defender has impressed alongside Tony James at the heart of the Bulls defence, covering for the injured Andy Tretton. The Bangladesh-born 22-
OLDBURY Park School took the honours in the annual RGS Worcester six-a-side competition for primary schools. Fourteen schools took part in the 19th annual round-robin competition, which ended with Oldbury Park playing Northwick Manor in the final. Favourites
BROMSGROVE RFC could be one of the first clubs in the country to be graced by the World Cup when it pays a flying visit to the Midlands next month. The Webb Ellis Trophy (pictured) is being paraded around the nation following England's epic final triumph
Bewdley Tn Ladies 4, Evesham Utd 7 AFTER a below par first half performance, Evesham produced a scintillating second period to storm to a tremendous result in their final Wyvern Associates League Cup game of the season. Looking out of sorts after their
BEN Thomas was the hero of the day as Droitwich Spa RFC First XV secured the narrowest of victories at Southam. Thomas, on as a replacement prop, went over for a close range try with barely two minutes left of last Saturday's encounter to steal the points
BROMSGROVE RFC Colts extended their winning run to four games with a 12-3 win against Bedworth at Finstall Park. Bedworth dominated the early play and robust play caused tempers to rise and penalties given, culminating in a penalty shot converted by Bedworth's
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' boss Jan Molby was left fuming over Wolverhampton Wanderers' hotly disputed killer goal in last night's FA Cup third round replay at Molineux. Wolves won 2-0 after Kenny Miller struck in each half with his controversial second
ENSURING health chiefs in Worcestershire do not spend a penny more than their budget, while keeping politicians happy and meeting targets, is "a significant challenge", according to Dr Richard Whitmore, a health chief at the South Worcestershire Primary
GEORGE Rooney is tipping Paul Wyatt (pictured) to develop into an "exceptional goalkeeper". The Bromsgrove Rovers boss is standing by his top choice stopper, blamed for a number of goals conceded this season, including two against Wolves last week. But
BEN Thomas was the hero of the day as Droitwich Spa RFC First XV secured the narrowest of victories at Southam. Thomas, on as a replacement prop, went over for a close range try with barely two minutes left of last Saturday's encounter to steal the points
PAUL Szewczyk became the first Bromsgrove Rovers player in nearly eight years to score four goals in a match as his side thrashed basement boys Shepshed Dynamo 5-1. The 6ft 2in striker, who joined Rovers from Stafford Rangers in October, scored twice
BROMSGROVE Rovers Reserves began their 2004 campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Barwell. Adam Marusiak in Rovers' goal was a spectator as Bromsgrove ran the Leicestershire side ragged and deservedly took the lead via Sean Maynard on the half-hour. Marusiak
REDDITCH and South Warwickshire Combination results for Sunday, January 11. Premier Division - Austin Ex Apprentices 1 (Stock) Sherwood Rangers 2 (Brown, M Brown); Wychbold RBL 5 (Crowther three, Jenkins, Talbot) Bromsgrove General 1 (Whitlock); South
ADVERTISER/Messenger League results for Sunday, January 11. WA Harris Cup Group B Victoria Barnt Green 8 Bromsgrove Town 1. Division One Meadow Park 1 Woodbourne Sports 1. Division Two Crown Inn 5 Barley Mow 1; Turks Head 1 Victoria Athletic 5. Division
Bromsgrove Town Boys U11s 10 Solihull Juniors U11s 0 Town cruised into the Open Cup quarter finals with a hat-trick from Ryan Bennett and two each from Lee Groves and Aston Lloyd. James Ward, Greg Smith and an own goal completed the rout. Chris Rudge
BROMSGROVE RFC could be one of the first clubs in the country to be graced by the World Cup when it pays a flying visit to the Midlands next month. The Webb Ellis Trophy (pictured) is being paraded around the nation following England's epic final triumph
BROMSGROVE RFC First XV have been given a bye to the North Midlands Cup quarter-final after Pershore pulled out of their first round tie. The two sides were due to meet at Pershore this Sunday. Pershore have cited injuries as the reason for withdrawing
MANY anglers seem to have given the thumbs down to midweek Stillwater open matches, possibly due to the cold spell. Even those hardy Starlets Veterans are finding turnouts ebbing and on Tuesday, January 6, their latest individual winter league event was
OVERBURY will have to overcome last year's beaten National Village Cricket Championships runners-up if they are to make progress this summer. The Cotswold Hills League side has been drawn against Astwood Bank, who lost out to Shipton-under-Wychwood in
OPENING matches in the 2004 WCB Evesham Indoor League brought success for Ashton and Elmley Castle. The former looked in danger of losing out to Overbury after being restricted to 87-5 but a superb display in the field earned victory by 21 runs. Gillett
DEAR EDITOR -- For almost 13 years my wife and I have been walking our dog almost every day in Droitwich Lido Park/St Peters Fields,(we do clear up), For most of the time weather permitting it has been an enjoyable form of exercise for us all, and over
DEAR EDITOR - Why remove more A-boards from our local shopkeepers. A-boards have been part of trading for hundreds of years. These traders are giving good quality goods and service to our town. We need these people. I guess it's an easy option to pick
THEATREGOERS still have a chance to catch Rubery lad Mikey Lightfoot in the Wizard of Oz this winter. The Waseley Road resident will be staring in the popular show at The Repertory Theatre in Birmingham until Saturday, January 24. There are afternoon
BEOLEY-based packaging and distribution firm Oakland International has become one of the first UK companies to receive a prestigious industry accolade for its food safety and general trading practices. The firm has been awarded the British Retail Consortium
AUTOMOTIVE manufacturers in Redditch and Bromsgrove are being offered a helping hand with employment issues, health and safety laws and contract disputes thanks to a pioneering scheme. Supply chain initiative 'Accelerate' has joined forces with Amery-Parkes
A LEADING Redditch automotive firm is well along the road to forging strong partnerships with American companies. Cirrus Technologies, based in Heming Road, employs 90 people and builds vehicle-testing equipment, such as rolling roads, for car producers
HAGGIS, poetry and whisky will be the delicious ingredients featuring at a traditional Burns Night being held in Bromsgrove later this month. The Primrose Hospice and Primrose Dining Club is organising a Burns Supper for the English Ear at the New Guesten
TOWNSFOLK looking to ease, rather than squeeze, back into their swimwear this summer can choose from a host of exercise classes to help them shape up. Whether you fancy dancing the night away or expending your excess energy on a punch bag, there is a
Evesham Jubilee Society MEMBERS are in action in a Stillwater Series match on Sunday at Hill View. The draw takes place at bank side between 7.45 and 8am and all members are urged to attend. Matches in the Tom Pitcher competition should be completed asap
CAN I congratulate the Post Office on achieving a tick in the box marked "consultation" over branch closures in Worcester. I am sure a grateful Government will award them a massive number of "Brownie points" for this zero impact exercise. The Post Office
AT our first meeting of 2004, we welcomed Sally Wilding FCA, a fellow soroptimist from the Central Birmingham club. Sally is a chartered accountant whose business is corporate management training - the dynamics of business. She discussed people's personalities
P J MAYNE (You Say, January 3) states that you do not print letters in support of foxhunting. I have regularly read letters from Messrs Pinney, Brierley, Burgess and others supporting foxhunting. There are possibly more letters published in favour of
Lickey WI's first meeting of the New Year was held at the parish hall on Tuesday, January 6. Vice-president Mary Rollason conducted the business meeting during which three dates were announced for outings to different venues later in the year. The first
THE president, Catherine Kealy, welcomed the members to the meeting, especially Jill's mum. Mulled wine was served and a toast was drunk to the institute. Everyone was wished a happy Christmas and a happy New Year. It was good to receive a cheery card
IF you fancy a flutter without the risk of losing any real money then a fundraising casino night may be just what you are looking for. Nicole Harris, chairman of the Bromsgrove branch of Leukaemia Research Fund, is running the event, where you'll only
PARISHIONERS at a town church, who waited 15 months for a new appointment to be made, have given a warm welcome to their new parish priest. Patricia Allsopp, a 55-year-old mother of two, was officially installed and licensed at a special service at St
CREATIVITY was the name of the game when local school children got together for a Challenge Plus Day. Stoke Prior First School hosted Monday's event, when pupils put their heads together in a bid to come up with ideas to make the world a better place.
ANGRY neighbours of fee-paying Bromsgrove School, already upset at having to look out on new classrooms they say resemble 'bike sheds' - claim plans for a new, palatial headmaster's house to be built near their homes is the final straw. Residents in the
YOUNGER motorists are more likely to ignore the important drink drive message than any other age group, a new police study has shown. Almost half of those arrested for drink-driving offences during the festive period in Bromsgrove were between 21 and
GOLF ace John Bickerton has opted for the sun of Dubai rather than the rain of Droitwich as he prepares for the new season. The Spa professional, aged 34, has been warming up for forthcoming PGA European Tour with a trip to the Middle East ahead of his
A CHIEF executive has been appointed by Bromsgrove District Housing Trust, the organisation which will take over the management of the council's housing stock in March. Mike Brown, aged 45, who was formerly director of property investment at a Coventry-based
A CONCERNED community leader is calling for robust railings be installed on a dangerous stretch of road in Rubery before a child is killed. Councillor Peter McDonald (Lab-Waseley) says that access from Library Way onto the busy A38 is now easier than
BROMSGROVE is to host a special exhibition to commemorate the UK's fourth annual Holocaust Memorial Day, which will be held on Tuesday, January 27. The exhibition, Another Time - Another Place, will be on display at Bromsgrove's Birmingham Road museum
Green-fingered youngsters from a Spa middle school are set to benefit from their new environmental area. The scheme is a joint initiative between Witton Middle School and BCTV-Worcestershire Community projects. The volunteer group, which helps with environmental
After many years of competing, Droitwich has decided to withdraw from the Britain in Bloom competition. The decision was made by town councillors at the end of last year. They decided the national event had become too preoccupied with other factors, such
GEORGE Bate became the second Bromsgrove Olympique Cycling Club rider to need hospital treatment in a week. The 13-year-old was catapulted through the air after losing control of his bike on a steep gravel bank just a few hundred yards from the finish
A PRIVATELY funded investigation into the death of a Webheath woman has prompted the General Medical Council to reopen a case it originally threw out. Calvin Tudor is prepared to lose his home in what he calls his "fight for justice" following the death
ON Friday, December 19, we were travelling from mid-Wales to London via Alvechurch, where we visited my brother-in-law, who lives in Snake Lane. I inadvertently dropped my purse as I got out of the car but was unaware of this. We later left to stay the
OVERBURY will have to overcome last year's beaten National Village Cricket Championships runners-up if they are to make progress this summer. The Cotswold Hills League side has been drawn against Astwood Bank, who lost out to Shipton-under-Wychwood in
Pershore III 3, Old Wulfs III 0 PERSHORE extended their unbeaten run in their first outing since Christmas. They put pressure on the visiting defence from the start, but were unable to create any good chances until 20 minutes into the game when Rob Handley
A REDDITCH resident who was described as the 'archetypal neighbour from hell' challenged police officers to seek an antisocial behaviour order, a court heard. West Mercia Police finally gathered enough evidence to act and Michaela Hilton, 39, was given
A REDDITCH man led police on a high-speed chase as he tried to escape being arrested for an alleged offence which, ironically, was subsequently dropped. But the chase led to Alan Hall, aged 44, of The Glebe, Beoley, appearing at Warwick Crown Court, where
SHOPKEEPERS on Unicorn Hill have objected to the latest proposals to keep a taxi rank outside their stores. The consultation period for plans to retain a taxi rank on Unicorn Hill and move short-term parking for the shops to Bates Hill came to an end
IT was with great pride that I sat at St Augustine's High School to see my son and many others receive their GCSE and A2 awards presented by our MP, Jacqui Smith. It was interesting in her address that she didn't actually mention to them the costs of
A STUDLEY student is off to Thailand in March on a mission to help disabled orphans. Claire Ford, 19, will be joining five other British volunteers in Bangkok as part of the Transform programme run by Christian relief organisation Tearfund. She is taking
AS a longstanding member of the Ramblers' Association, I was astonished to read the reported comments of Richard Hemmings (Advertiser, December 17) regarding public rights of way in the Alvechurch area. Having walked paths in just about every parish in
IN the early hours of Friday, December 19, we were added to Redditch police station's computer as yet more poor souls who had to be issued a crime number. Someone had decided they were well within their rights to enter our property and take a bike worth
A SCOOTER-mad Redditch youngster who was diagnosed with epilepsy when he was seven was left distraught when spiteful thieves stole his favourite Christmas present. Jake Dalby, 11, of Lodge Park, who also has special needs, was over the moon when he received
AT the November meeting, the speaker was Ralph Richardson, from Redditch, who gave a talk with slides on the natural history of South West Ireland. He started by admitting he was not a gardener and was wary of naming many plants because members might
AT the Christmas Lunch, there was splendid entertainment from Mervyn John, who brought his instrument along in the shape of a very versatile organ. He played many show tunes and standards and members ended up singing Christmas carols. At the meeting on
AFTER performing four concerts in December, Bel Canto look forward to the New Year. Practice of new music will start in January. Anyone wishing to join the choir can call 546453 or attend the Continental Club, Oakley Road on Monday evenings at 7.30pm.
CHRISTMAS Cracker's Miscellany was the theme of the December 4 meeting. Poems, stories and demonstrations and delicious cakes and sweets were presented to members. Thanks were given for help in providing lunches at the recent Church Bazaar. The 2003 programme
ON DECEMBER 19, the society held its second competition of the current season. In the print section, first place went to John Kettle and second and third places to Roy Cottrill. Irene Matthews won all three prizes in the slide section. Anyone wishing
THE Ladies Section held their Christmas party on December 17. Buffet refreshments were prepared and served by the committee. Dave Summers entertained members for dancing and party time and everyone enjoyed a most pleasant evening. On Wednesday, January
GEORGE Rooney is tipping Paul Wyatt (pictured) to develop into an "exceptional goalkeeper". The Bromsgrove Rovers boss is standing by his top choice stopper, blamed for a number of goals conceded this season, including two against Wolves last week. But
PAUL Szewczyk became the first Bromsgrove Rovers player in nearly eight years to score four goals in a match as his side thrashed basement boys Shepshed Dynamo 5-1. The 6ft 2in striker, who joined Rovers from Stafford Rangers in October, scored twice
MOUNT Pleasant residents have been warned their vehicles could be towed away if they park outside their homes while work to repair a road is carried out. The footway along the section of road between Pool Bank and Ivor Road is to be rebuilt, kerbing is
IT may already be steeped in history but Studley Parish Church is creating another landmark with the launch of a website. The site has been in development for about eight months and has been designed by church member Emma Goldby. By accessing the site
ALCESTRIANS packed a meeting on Monday night to hear an update on plans for a new hospital. GPs from the Priory Road and Arrow Lodge surgeries, who have teamed up to build a £3 million new hospital, have spent the last few months working through details
DUNCAN Roke has been ruled out of Worcester's crunch trip to Orrell on Saturday. The full back, who has been struggling with a knee problem since October, had surgery last month and has still not recovered. National One pacesetters Worcester travel to
January 14, 1904 JOHN Archer, of Marsden Road, was found guilty of being drunk and disorderly on Marsden Road on the 9th inst. PC Bonell provided the case. Supt Hayes said there were 15 previous convictions against the defendant on similar charges but
PUBS and clubs in the Evesham area are asked to notify their interest in joining a summer pool league. It's hoped to start the mixed team competition later this year and interested entrants are asked to telephone Matt Royle on 01386 446362 for more details
THE inaugural staging of a variation on Stratford Athletic Club's popular winter race takes place on Sunday. 'Not The Roman IX' is a 12K race that starts and finishes in the Tiddington area. Entry forms and details are available from the club's website
PERSHORE Swimming Club welcomed 14 new members as young swimmers in the county took up the invitation to attend a free trial evening at Pershore Leisure Centre. "We are delighted with the response and all the newcomers really enjoyed themselves," said
AN Astwood Bank man embarked on a challenge of Herculean proportions when he took part in 12 days of high-endurance events for a TV show being screened on BBC3 this week. Endurance swimming champion Darron Corden, 37, is one of 12 athletes from across
EVESHAM Wheelers A group of nine hardy riders took a route through Gretton, Goth-erington, Bishops Cleeve and Stoke Orchard last weekend. They then passed over the river and on to Longdon through Upton then on to coffee at Severn Stoke. The return journey
GOOD shooting from both sides saw leaders Offenham RBL and old rivals Campden separated by a mere four points at the finish. It was Offenham who emerged victorious to maintain their their three-point cushion over Lygon Arms who won easily at Bidford RBL
ALCESTER Town Council is pressing for more CCTV for the town centre. Councillors have been discussing how to go about getting more cameras for Henley Street and Gashouse Lane. The council contributes to the running costs of the three CCTV cameras which
ALCESTER Court Leet members are gearing up again for their annual service. The service will begin on Sunday at St Nicholas' Church at 11am. A parade led by Alcester Victoria Silver Band from Bleachfield Street through the High Street to the church will
MORE than half-a-million Worcestershire travellers have helped Birmingham International Airport (BIA) achieve record passenger numbers. Figures released today show the airport - which the Government has earmarked for a new runway in its Aviation White
THE Primrose Hospice Tree of Light appeal has broken all records by raising a staggering £16,200. Residents made donations to the charity, which helps cancer victims and their families, in memory of loved ones. This was the hospice's biggest ever total
A REDDITCH charity is on the look out for residents who are willing to help make a difference to people's lives. Carers Careline is asking people to give up just two or three hours a week to ease the lives of carers and the people they care for. The charity
REDDITCH fire station's Safe Home project has so far seen crews visit 195 properties across the town and fit 237 smoke detectors. During a home visit, fire crews carry out a full search of the property looking for potential fire hazards or anything which
TWO skeletons have been discovered beneath The Commandery - and experts warn they could be the first of many. Employees using the museum staff room have unwittingly been taking a lunchtime break over what could be an ancient burial ground. Two bodies
CONTROVERSIAL plans for a naughty knicker and sex-aid shop opposite Worcester's The Guildhall have moved a step closer. Work has already begun on the Ann Summers branch at the former men's Next, at 34 High Street, and now the firm has asked for permission
Bidford Ladies 5, Campden 5 THERE were goals galore on the Big Meadow last weekend with the sides sharing the spoils after a ten-goal thriller. Campden led 4-2 at half-time after a first half in which Shirley Aubrey, Penny Evans, Sarah Bragg, Wendy Copper
Pershore III 3, Old Wulfs III 0 PERSHORE extended their unbeaten run in their first outing since Christmas. They put pressure on the visiting defence from the start, but were unable to create any good chances until 20 minutes into the game when Rob Handley
A YOUNG business trio in Droitwich is taking the commercial entertainment world by storm. The local team - all ex-Droitwich High School pupils and in their mid-20s - have built up a glowing reputation for their business Event Management & Logistics
SWIMMERS took the plunge and quizzed experts about the running of Worcester's pool and Perdiswell sports centre at a special forum recently. Leisure Connection, which manages the city's pool and sports centre on behalf of the council, organised the forum
HEREFORD will hit the airwaves this month when the city's Cathedral Choir makes a prestigious live broadcast on BBC Radio 3. The broadcast of the the Cathedral's choral evensong will be aired on Wednesday, January 21, at 4pm and is expected to be heard
THE controversial speed camera in Worcester does meet the required criteria, according to an official study. Figures show that there were almost 27 speed-related collisions on City Walls Road during the period 1999-2001, which is the period upon which
GENEROUS fund-raisers have been digging deep into their pockets to help Acorns raise the cash it needs to build a £4m hospice for life-limited youngsters in Worcester. Now they are well on the way to achieving the final million pounds. The money will
PEOPLE who would like to impress their friends with a party trick, can join Malvern Juggling Club. The club meets on the first and third Monday of every month from 7pm 9.30pm. Would-be jugglers of all abilities from beginners to advanced can join in the
BROMSGROVE Rovers Reserves began their 2004 campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Barwell. Adam Marusiak in Rovers' goal was a spectator as Bromsgrove ran the Leicestershire side ragged and deservedly took the lead via Sean Maynard on the half-hour. Marusiak
IN the latest of our regular features with Redditch police, we ask you to help solve crimes through the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111. You can give information anonymously, calls are free, not recorded, and a reward may be offered for information
TWO teenage boys had wallets and a mobile phone stolen by a gang of five youths. The attack happened in Evesham Road at 7.30pm on Monday. The 16 year olds were walking near Hardings Garage when they were approached by the group. The offenders struck one
LATE, great comedy favourite Les Dawson is actually alive and well and appearing on the stage of the Norbury Theatre - almost! Even those too young to remember the rubber-faced legend were wiping away the tears, as Brian Gater marched on stage in a style
DROITWICH Spa Hockey Club Men's First XI go in search of three league points as they attempt to get the second half of their league campaign off to a winning start. Barry Williams' side host Barlaston this Saturday, a team they beat 3-2 in the reverse
BROMSGROVE Hockey Club First XI will be without four key players as they re-start their season. Julian Court's side host Evesham this Saturday, the team who beat them 9-1 in the last competitive fixture of 2003. But they will start the game without Mark
THE club waters at Great Alne were in the finest condition for many months making the first Needles Winter League match a good start to the new year for the 16 club members. The winner was club stalwart Barry Feldhahn with an excellent weight of 14lbs
REDDITCH Road and Path Cycling Club have a full programme of events, starting on Sunday, January 25 with the Open Cyclo-Cross at Pitcher Oak Wood (11.30am). There are two Reliability Runs on Sunday, February 15 - one of 42 miles and the other at 62 miles
REDDITCH Swimming Club rounded off their year with a series of galas. In the 9/10 age group, Danielle Harwood won 12 gold medals, and Robert Stanley and James Green also won gold. Elizabeth Humphreys took the gold in the 9 and under age and silver medal
REDDITCH town centre rota chemist is Carrington and Turner, Church Green West, open every day except Saturday and Sunday until 7pm. Knights Chemist, Evesham Road, Crabbs Cross, is open weekdays until 7pm and every Sunday between 6-7pm. Foxlydiate Chemist
Released by Aston Villa, Brock signed for Harriers in September 1997 after a short spell at Northampton Town where he failed to make an appearance. He made his Harriers first-team debut in November of the same year and has proved himself a fine shot-stopper
PLANS to merge some of the town's neighbourhood group meetings due to boundary changes have met a mixed reaction from councillors. The boundaries are being redrawn under Local Government Commission proposals to ensure wards have a similar number of electors
Versatile Hinton began his career at right-back before reverting to a centre-half role during the Conference championship-winning season. The change of position proved the making of the former Birmingham City trainee who was once rated at £1 million and
Another Mr Versatile, long-serving Smith signed for Harriers in 1997 for £19,000 from non-league rivals Bromsgrove Rovers. Smith's performances in non-league earned him three caps for the England semi-professional team as well as a Nationwide Conference
The uncompromising defender was Ian Britton's last signing before the manager was sacked in October 2003 and cost Harriers a four-figure fee. Hatswell has a second chance to impress in the Football League after leaving Oxford under Ian Atkins due to a
STUDLEY have been handed a pre-FA Vase boost with influential midfielder Matt Coppin pledging his future to the club after Bedworth United attempted to lure him away from The Beehive. Dr Martens Western League outfit Bedworth had given Studley official
Worcester City 5 Redditch United 1 ENCOUNTERS like this prove that football matches are sometimes not always about results. Reds fans who decided not to brave the sub-zero temperatures swirling around the haunted surroundings of St George's Lane on Monday
Bennett was a then club record buy of £30,000 from rivals Bromsgrove Rovers in January 1999 and proved a goal-scoring menace to Conference opponents in the title-winning season. The ex-England semi-professional international signed a two-year deal at
Studley 2 Coalville Town 1 IT took 792 minutes but Studley finally conceded a goal but not all the spoils as they marched to second spot in the league. In a frantic end to this encounter at The Beehive, which saw Studley's Ricky Marshall and Mark Beddows
The Republic of Ireland U-20s captain did well in the reserves at Wolverhampton Wanderers but failed to make his first-team debut. Ward was released at the end of the 2002/03 season as a result but caught Ian Britton's eye in a trial with Harriers and
Jenkins moved on to pastures new in December 2003 on an 18-month contract after 181 games over more than seven seasons at Swansea. The midfielder or full-back, Jan Molby's first permanent signing in his second spell in charge at Harriers, is a hard-working
REDDITCH Council is looking at continuing to provide street entertainment in the market. The council's estates and valuation services manager Jim Prendergrast told councillors at an executive committee meeting last Wednesday the entertainers had been
Once capped by England U-20s and also in the national youth sides, the Birmingham-born midfielder has had a turbulent 2003-04 season. Murray signed for Harriers on an 18-month contract in January 2004 following a brief loan spell of three games earlier
A player with an impressive reputation in homeland Denmark, Henriksen signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Aggborough in February 2002. The flamboyant striker, who impressed in an initial three-month loan spell with an immaculate first touch, signed from
Christiansen's signing was another major coup for Harriers director of football Jan Molby in January 2004. The giant Danish striker attracted plenty of interest from clubs in his homeland but he wanted to play in England after a failed trial at Grimsby
Thursday, January 15 The Alan Barnes Quartet, at The Bulls, Head, Inkberrow. Tickets from 01386 793171. Celebrity Piano Recital - Grigory Sikolov, Symphony Hall, Birmingham. Tickets from 0121 780 3333. Malvern Theatre Players: A Christmas Carol, Forum
CRICKET classes for youngsters to learn skills of the sport continue in Droitwich Spa this weekend. English Cricket Board (ECB) level two qualified coach Karl Goddard is running sessions at the town's high school, in Briar Mill, on Saturdays. Sessions
Team Bath 0, Evesham Utd 0 A SECOND successive clean sheet, an extension of their unbeaten sequence to four matches and a leap of two places in the Dr Martens League Western Division table. Not a bad afternoon's work from Dave Busst's men! It could have
Newtown Jnrs 4, Littleton Jnrs U-13 5 THE division's top two sides produced a feast of fine football with the winners taking over at the summit. Littleton started brightly and were soon rewarded when Matt Goss held off two defenders before showing great
Bewdley Tn Ladies 4, Evesham Utd 7 AFTER a below par first half performance, Evesham produced a scintillating second period to storm to a tremendous result in their final Wyvern Associates League Cup game of the season. Looking out of sorts after their
Littleton 3, Malvern Town Res 4 (aet) FOR the first time for several years, Littleton won't be contesting a cup final this season after Saturday's Evesham Hospital Cup semi-final reverse. The losers, however, have only themselves to blame as they missed
CAMPDEN Town suffered a goalless and pointless on a rare off day in the Stratford Alliance. The senior side crashed out of the Edwards of Stratford Knockout Cup as a solitary strike from Ade Smith was enough to send Needlemakers through. The club's second
Evesham Utd U-13 1, Chasewell Park 4 EVESHAM fell behind to a goal after only 30 seconds and then failed to defend the edge of their box to go 2-0 behind. To their credit, United gave the champions-elect a difficult time at the back and David Huggins
A MEETING was to be held to decide whether Bromsgrove should become a borough. There were opposing views on the situation. On one hand it was thought that a mayoralty would bring dignity to the town but on the other hand it was thought to be "municipal
THE body of a newly born boy was discovered in the alley off Ednall Lane. Annie Nowell, aged 13, was the first witness. She said she was coming home from Sunday School at about 3.30pm and discovered the body, wrapped in a brown paper bag tied up with
Salford Rvrs 1, Evesham Utd U-15 2 UNITED came away with all the points in a top of the table clash after a physical battle. The visitors showed how good they were defensively in an evenly matched first half of few chances. John Howman, Nick Bennet and
Cheltenham Saracens 2, Evesham Utd U-11 7 MICHAEL Savidge's early strike set United on their way to a comfortable triumph. It was 2-0 at the break after Olly Scarrott had netted and the hosts were hit by a second half salvo of a handful of further goals
Kempsey Warriors A 1, Evesham Utd U-10 3 EVESHAM came out on top in Satu-rday's friendly, but competitive match. Sam Ford whipped in a cross from the right that was deflected into the net. Henry Woods soon extended the lead following fine work by Ford
DUNCAN Roke has been ruled out of Worcester's crunch trip to Orrell on Saturday. The full back, who has been struggling with a knee problem since October, had surgery last month and has still not recovered. National One pacesetters Worcester travel to
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' hopes of pulling off an FA Cup giant-killing act were dashed when they were destroyed by two goals from Wolves' Kenny Miller in last night's replay at Molineux. He opened the scoring after 36 minutes and then settled the issue
EVESHAM United came from two goals down to win 3-2 at Ilkeston Town in the Dr Martens Western Division last night. The Robins hopes of extending their unbeaten league run to five games looked dead and buried after 17 minutes. But two goals by Lee Ross
BROMSGROVE RFC could be one of the first clubs in the country to be graced by the World Cup when it pays a flying visit to the Midlands next month. The Webb Ellis Trophy (pictured) is being paraded around the nation following England's epic final triumph
Team Bath 0, Evesham Utd 0 A SECOND successive clean sheet, an extension of their unbeaten sequence to four matches and a leap of two places in the Dr Martens League Western Division table. Not a bad afternoon's work from Dave Busst's men! It could have
DAVE Clark put in a solid performance as Midlands Two (West) table toppers Bromsgrove RFC First XV won 34-8 at basement side Bedworth. The skipper scored two of Dean Ball's side's six tries and was involved in two of the other touchdowns. Coach Ball was
A BROMSGROVE schoolgirl has been given the opportunity to represent the Midlands at the sport she loves. Clemmie Reeve-Tucker (pictured) was named in the West Midlands U18s ladies rugby team last Sunday. The 16-year-old, from Ross-on-Wye and who boards
Droitwich U8s 35 Birmingham and Solihull U8s 25 A superb team effort saw Droitwich come back from three early scores. Tries came from Eloise Foulds, Tom Flowerdew, Oliver Parks and Joel Power. Droitwich U8s 40 Woodrush U8s 30 The tries came from Josh
FAIRFIELD Villa were outclassed by second place Pilkington XXX in a home defeat last Saturday. Villa, beaten 3-1 by Barnt Green Spartak in their last league game, made all the early running before the visitors gradually took over. But manager Neil Gallagher
RUNAWAY Midland Combination division one leaders Barnt Green Spartak go head to head with second place Pilkington XXX in a top of the table clash this Saturday. The top two sides, split by ten points, meet at Pilkington with GJ Singh's league leaders
THREE penalty decisions were at the centre of Droitwich Spa's 1-0 Midland Combination division one defeat at West Hagley last Saturday. Kevin Blaber's side had two spot kick appeals rejected before the hosts took the points with a second half penalty
REDDITCH and South Warwickshire Combination results for Sunday, January 11. Premier Division Austin Ex Apprentices 1 (Stock) Sherwood Rangers 2 (Brown, M Brown); Wychbold RBL 5 (Crowther three, Jenkins, Talbot) Bromsgrove General 1 (Whitlock); South Redditch
DEAR EDITOR -- As the writers of letters over the previous two weeks, have pointed out, the reporting of the 'improved New Year train service was a little wide of the mark. When I heard of the proposed timetable change, I was originally astounded and
DEAR EDITOR - Once again we wait in dread for the annually ever increasing council tax which should be renamed the annual extortion tax. Rumours are that Bromsgrove District Council will increase the tax by five per cent and the county council will increase
Tuesday, January 13, 2004 KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' hopes of pulling off an FA Cup giant-killing act were dashed when they were destroyed by two goals from Wolves' Kenny Miller in last night's replay at Molineux. He opened the scoring after 36 minutes and
Dear Editor - As the New Year begins is anyone else in Bromsgrove faced with a similar situation as my neighbours and I? That is, developers buying up properties, destroying gardens, wanting to demolish a perfectly good home and build six more in its
Dear Editor - The much publicised media campaign by the DVLA in prompting people to tax their vehicles on time is to be commended but my recent personal experiences have left me at a total loss! My car tax ran out on December 31 and I visited Aston Fields
Dear Editor - Mr Anderson thinks Blair and Bush are great leaders (Advertiser, January 7 ). I'm afraid I don't agree. Of course it is good that Saddam has been found, but at what cost? So far no less than 7 billion pounds. With this money we could have
DEAR EDITOR - At the fox hunt meet on Boxing day in Droitwich Spa, animal rights campaigners questioned the posters saying "59 per cent agree with hunting", as we strongly suspect that the survey was carried out among 1,000 members of the Countryside
DEAR EDITOR - The Royal British Legion (Aston Fields Branch) would like to thank all those who so generously gave to the Poppy Appeal last November. A sum of £3,865 has been raised so far, with more monies to come. A special thanks to all those who gave
Saturday, January 10, 2004 DAVE Clark put in a solid performance as Midlands Two (West) table toppers Bromsgrove RFC First XV won at basement side Bedworth. The skipper scored two of Dean Ball's side's six tries and was involved in two of the other touchdowns
DEAR EDITOR - What are pavements intended for? The obvious answer to this is that they exist as communal, safe, traffic-free, pedestrian rights of way. However, this is the age of the car and it seems that pavements are increasingly being adopted as an
WORCESTERSHIRE batsman Kadeer Ali and off-spinner Shaftab Khalid are included in England's 'A' squad for their forthcoming tour of Malaysia and India. The duo have been training at Loughborough with the England Academy in readiness for the tour which
Redditch 16 Bishops Castle 5 Redditch started their New Year North Midlands Division 1 campaign with a tough home fixture against second-placed Bishops Castle. Captain Steve Hull won the toss and elected to play up the hill. The first half then turned
Pre-season friendlies Sat July 19 Bromyard (a) 7-1 Ball 3, Robinson, Giddings, A Wright, Wood. Wed July 23 Studley (h) 1-3 Ball Tues July 29 Westfields (h) 1-1 Wood Sat Aug 2 Bilston (a) 6-1 Ball 4, Sayer, Wood Tues Aug 5 Stourbridge (h) 4-1 Robinson
Rugby St Andrew's 23 Alcester 24 Alcester gained a crucial Warwickshire Division 1 double over Rugby St Andrew's. The victory extended the club's winning run to five matches. Centre Matt Gwynn converted the first of his penalty opportunities to put his
Kings Norton 21 Veseyans 8 Straight from the kick off, unbeaten Veseyans were rocked by the intensity of the home side's attack and fell behind to an excellent corner flag touchdown by scrum half John Hefford. The move began straight from the start when
Evesham 25pts, Old Yardleians 43 AFTER the previous week's encouraging performance, Evesham went into Saturday's game in confident mood. The visiting pack started with their traditional power and dominant style that Evesham had no answer to. And, after
MEMBERS of the Longbridge Methodist Church in Rednal will stage a production of Aladdin from February 18 to 21. Tickets on 07741002542.
A LEADING Redditch aerospace firm has been bought by American engineering giant Honeywell, it was announced on Monday. The Hymatic Group Ltd, based in North Moons Moat, has been a major player in the pneumatics and hydraulics industry since its formation
WORCESTER City's football secretary Steve Bond has stepped down from duties after more than 10 years in the post. St George's Lane chairman Dave Boddy paid tribute to Bond, rating him the best he's worked with. Bond has resigned due to increased constraints
AN Alcester hardware store is celebrating after winning a National Retailer of the Year Competition. Morris Mica Hardware, of Swan Street, scooped the Gold Award 2003 in a competition run by the voluntary trading group Mica Hardware. The prize was won
WHAT better way to see in the New Year than with a whopping dose of first class comedy, courtesy of The Glee Club?, writes Emily Bridgewater. Packing the punch lines were four fresh-faced comedians who ensured the sell-out audience laughed their socks
Wednesday, January 14 Show: Aladdin, Swan Theatre, Worcester. Until January 24. Show: Moscow State Circus, Alexandra Theatre, Station Road, Birmingham. Pantomime: Cinderella, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Until February 1. Singles: Live
AFTER a hard day's work, frequently getting soaked through to the skin, you didn't seek shelter in the 1940s and 50 when a cloud appeared in the sky. It was home on the bus/tram, a change of clothing, a meal and then off to the "Tech" three evenings per
The choir is hoping for a beautiful summer evening for its summertime concert on June 7. This is the first time the choir has put on a public concert in the summer, its other established public concerts being the Christmas concert and the Proms concert
MR McAvoy may not like my expression "creative accountant's handbook," but it's winkled out of him the fact that the figures he used as the "costs of road accidents to our community" are actually Department of Transport "estimates!" That means they might
WE are writing regarding the threatened changes at Thornton House School. Our five-year-old son went to the Nursery Assessment unit when he was three years old. He was only able to say a few words and was very withdrawn. Straightaway, we could see a massive
REMOVAL of vegetation and installing new warning signs were all part of a £12,000 scheme to improve the safety of a rail crossing. Bromsgrove's Tory MP Julie Kirkbride officially opened the improved rail crossing, at Sweetpool Lane in Hagley, last Friday
RUBERY residents are being urged to sign up to learn a new language. The village library is hosting a display to encourage more people to take up sign language. Their Music in Motion exhibition explains how hearing people can help the profoundly deaf
A BMX cycle track, a multi-surface sports pitch and two youth shelters could be up and running in Rubery by the end of the year. Bromsgrove district councillor Peter McDonald (Waseley) says he is 'confident' that Rubery will receive a cash boost of £100,000
AMONG the usual batch of letters and notices youngsters at a Bromsgrove school will take home to their parents this week will be a bundle of bookmarks. They have been designed to carry a message to families aimed at recruiting a lollipop man or women
A WOMAN'S love helped save a town man from another spell behind bars. Travelling exhibition contractor Andrew Tully, of Catshill, appeared before Harrogate magistrates to face three charges after a late-night incident in and around a pizza take-away in
FORMER employees of the failed United Engineering Forgings (UEF) firm took to the streets of London to fight for their pension rights last Saturday. More than 200 workers, from defunct firms across the country, brought Oxford Circus to a standstill demanding
BUBBLY youngsters at a local nursery proved their first day at school need not be a scary experience. Four new three-year-old children were welcomed into the nursery at Wychbold First School and they embraced the experience with delight. Incy, wincy spider
CAMPAIGNING residents opposed to proposed development on the Victoria Ground plan to quiz candidates in a forthcoming by-election before deciding who to support. The election to choose a councillor to represent Sidemoor ward will be held on Thursday,
A community-spirited Spa resident has been recognised for his good work by a town company. Roy Hewlett, the former poppy appeal organiser for Droitwich, recently retired after 26 years of service. Excel, which operates the Safeway distribution centre
A well-travelled bear has returned from his round-the-world trip to entertain youngsters at Chawson First School. Teaching assistant Julia Price-Causer has just returned from her trip to Australia, America and New Zealand.She took along her mini travelling
TRADERS in and around Ombersley are up in arms over a decision to close a busy bridge over the River Severn for repair work. Worcestershire County Council has announced that the Holt Fleet Bridge, near Ombersley, is set to close for three weeks in March
A Spa head teacher has raised doubts over a new policy which gives heads the power to issue on-the-spot fines to parents who take their children out of school for family holidays. As part of a tough new stance on truancy, junior minister Ivan Lewis has
Needy people in Droitwich could benefit from the town's United Charities if they put their case forward, it has been announced. At a recent meeting, the Trustees of Droitwich United Charities decided that they need to make themselves more widely known
TWO wins in three days has put a spring back in our step but after the season to date forgive me if I don't go shouting from the roof tops just yet. In general the players' attitude and application has been first class. The dressing room has thrown a
BROMSGROVE cyclist Joe Rowe (pictured) has become a veteran cyclo-cross national champion after a superb performance. Rowe, aged 54, was second overall in the League of Veteran Racing Cyclists national cyclo-cross championships at Darley Moor Sports Centre
THREE players shared the top break in the first Droitwich and District Snooker League matches of 2004. Alan Kirkham, Rob Randle and Glyn Thomas all made 38 breaks on Tuesday, January 6. Kirkham's break came in Bromsgrove Labour Club A's 5-0 division thrashing
SELF-DEFENCE classes for ladies are starting in Aston Fields this month. The British Free Fighting Academy, based at Fighting Fit in New Road, is running a course to help women develop confidence and teach self-defence techniques if attacked. Sessions
A MAGNIFICENT fightback at Ilkeston on Tuesday stretched Eve-sham United's unbeaten run to five matches. The Robins trailed by two goals after 17 minutes but, amazingly, found themselves 3-2 in front six minutes after the break. Dave Busst's men hit the
RACHAEL Sellick was Evesham's star turn at the annual Worcester-shire Junior Closed Table Tennis Championships. Sellick, one of 24 local entries of the 67 in action, was crowned Cadet Girls Singles champion and then teamed up with sister Katie to take
PIPING hot coffee and good conversation were the perfect way to end a brisk winter's walk around Bromsgrove's Sanders Park on Monday. Energetic townsfolk were all smiles in the park's cosy pavilion, enjoying a few minutes rest after completing a three-mile
BEN Thomas was the hero of the day as Droitwich Spa RFC First XV secured the narrowest of victories at Southam. Thomas, on as a replacement prop, went over for a close range try with barely two minutes left of last Saturday's encounter to steal the points
NORGREN moved out of the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League's third division relegation zone after a surprise win over near neighbours and leaders Shipston Excelsior. Second half goals from Morris and an own goal gave the home side the points, while
PERSHORE Swimming Club welcomed 14 new members as young swimmers in the county took up the invitation to attend a free trial evening at Pershore Leisure Centre. "We are delighted with the response and all the newcomers really enjoyed themselves," said
Evesham 10, Pershore 1 EVESHAM began the new year in emphatic style as they produced a clinical performance to completely outplay their local rivals in a friendly before this weekend's resumption of league action. The long break was certainly evident
A WEBHEATH woman who died when her car collided with a lorry has been described by her husband as "a beautiful person who could never be replaced". Hazel Murray, 42, of Boxnott Close, was on her way home from work at Halfords' headquarters at 3pm on Friday
A DECISION on whether or not to allow a controversial animal carcass incinerator to operate in Astwood Bank looks set to be taken out of the hands of Redditch Council. A second application to operate an incinerator behind Astwood Bank First School has
