A MUCH-USED Worcester park is having a face-lift. The King George V playing fields, in Brickfields, is undergoing a re-vamp thanks to community organisations and some hard-working volunteers. A partnership of environmental charity Duckworth Worcestershire
A COUNCIL member who flouted regulations has been suspended from duties for three months. John Carter, of North Claines Parish Council, failed to declare an interest in a planning application that directly affected him. In direct breach of the council's
TEXT messages of support have been a great boost to a youth worker from Worcester who is attempting to row across the Atlantic Ocean. In an e-mail to his supporters, Richard Wood, who has so far rowed around 200 miles, said he has been sent more than
A COUPLE has admitted 20 counts of possessing and supplying drugs to users as young as 14. Eric and Nicola Woodbridge each admitted 10 identical charges including possessing more than a gram of "crack" cocaine, 285 ecstasy tablets, 503.19g of cannabis
A DENTAL practice in Worcester is believed to be the first on the world to adopt radical new equipment promising pain-free treatment in a bid to combat people's fears of the dentist. Ray and Graham Steggles fear many of us are allowing our teeth to rot
EDUCATION Minister David Miliband is to look at rules which lead to schools in poorer parts of Worcestershire missing out on cash paid to every headteacher in neighbouring Birmingham. The issue was raised with Mr Miliband by a delegation led by headteachers
A PROVISIONAL driving licence holder who drove his friend's car after she blacked out was fined £150 for having no insurance or L plates. Matthew Moverley, from Amber Gate, City Walls Road, Worcester, was enjoying a night out in the city's Tramps nightclub
A DAFFODIL-planting scheme to raise cash for cancer care in Worcestershire has proved a blooming success - smashing its £5,000 target months in advance. Marie Curie Cancer Care launched its Field of Hope scheme, to plant 5,000 daffodils on Worcester racecourse
COUNTRY music fans are in for a treat at a gig in Droitwich Spa this Saturday. Canada will be performing for the End of the Trail Country Music Club at their regular venue of the Royal British Legion Club, in Salwarpe Road. The talented group is well
A DOCTOR who specialises in a unique way of caring for terminally ill patients has joined St Richard's Hospice in Worcester. Dr Jan Vaughan, who also works at the School Lane Surgery in Upton-upon-Severn, has just completed a Diploma in Palliative Medicine
A judge told two teenagers who rifled a man's bank account and forced him to beg on his knees, that it was time their Worcestershire town was free from being "terrorised". Thomas Davies, aged 18, and Mitchell Tillman, 17, frogmarched 22-year-old Chad
AMATEUR photographers are being encouraged to get clicking and enter a wildlife photography competition. The Wild in Worcester competition is a way of encouraging people to get out and about in the many parks and nature reserves within the Worcester city
A WOMEN'S business networking group is looking to attract new members. The Evesham Women In Business Club was set up in April 2002, by Rachel Jones, an Independent Financial Adviser, to actively try to support both employed and self-employed women in
Chasetown1, Bromsgrove Rovers Reserves 4 Midland Combination Reserve Division DETERMINED Rovers set about Chasetown with a renewed energy and a revamped playing system. The tone of the match was set in the first minute when How, Lennon and Lloyd combined
THE annual general meeting of Bromsgrove Rovers Football Club has been set for next month. It will take place on Thursday, February 19 in the Victoria Ground's boardroom. The club has also re-arranged its away match with Evesham United for Tuesday, March
FIXTURES WEST MIDLANDS REGIONAL LEAGUE Saturday, January 31 WFA Junior Cup Semi-final: Malvern Town Reserves v Fernhill Heath Sports (1.45). Saturday, February 7 Premier Division: Tipton Town v Malvern Town (2.45). Division One (South): Malvern Town Reserves
DEFENDER Wayne Hatswell was especially disappointed at Kidderminster Harriers' failure to beat Bury after missing one of their best chances. Hatswell believes he desperately needs a goal to boost his confidence in the attacking zone but he has had no
A COUPLE in their 50s were assaulted as they were out walking their dog in a meadow at the back of Forge Mill Museum in Bordesley. The husband and wife noticed a man, with a woman, ahead of them treating his own dog cruelly. The couple tried to intervene
POLICE are appealing for information after a police car parked at Hopwood Park Services was damaged on Saturday. The incident happened between 7.30-8.30pm as the patrol car was parked on the forecourt at the services. The driver's front window of the
INFORMATION is being sought by police in Wythall after the veterinary vaccination surgery clinic in the village was targeted by thieves. The theft happened shortly before 8.15pm on Saturday, when a white Sierra was seen speeding away from the premises
A MAN suffered an eye injury during a disturbance at Chicago Rock in Redditch town centre at about 11.40pm on Friday, January 16. The man was taken to the Alexandra Hospital and released the next day. DC Simon Taylor, from Redditch CID, said "Our inquiries
THE number of assaults on Redditch taxi drivers has fallen by 80 per cent following the installation of CCTV cameras in a number of vehicles. Redditch police joined forces with drivers and Redditch Council to launch the CCTV project in September to stamp
REDDITCH superbikes outfit Magnum Motorsport have joined forces with the country's largest Ducati dealership to mount a serious challenge for this season's British Superstock Championship. Magnum have signed an initial two-year deal with Ducati London
STUDLEY'S world champion Blue and White skippers held their second annual awards evening on Friday, January 16. Beci Dale scooped all the over-12 awards while Gemma Wong took most of the under-12 results. The skippers, run by Sue Dale, are still on the
Redditch United 0 Taunton Town 0 CHANCES were few and far between as the Reds looked to get back to winning ways at the Valley on Saturday. And with three minutes left on the clock, Richard Burgess thought he'd given United the vital winning goal against
Studley 6 Stafford 0 MARK Chambers' high-flying side proved that their glorious FA Vase adventure is far from distracting their Midland Alliance ambitions this season, writes CARSON WISHART. The Bees buzzed back after their late 2-1 defeat to table toppers
Thursday, January 29 The Animals, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. Tickets from 01905 611427. Worcester Gilbert & Sullivan Society: The Mikado, Festival Theatre, Malvern. Until January 31. Tickets from 01684 892277. Programme of J S Bach by Rachel Podger
WORCESTER Rugby Club were heaving a sigh of relief last night after it emerged Drew Hickey's injury wasn't serious. The number eight, who has played a significant part in the Warriors' 16-match National One winning run this season, received good news
COUNTY bosses including Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton have rejected pressure from Zimbabwe and put their faith in the England and Wales Cricket Board to make the right decision about the national team's controversial winter tour. Zimbabwe
BROMSGROVE Rovers put on a late recovery to draw 3-3 with Team Bath in the Dr Martens Western Division last night. Trailing 3-1 with just a quarter-of-an-hour to go they rolled up their sleeves and staged a dramatic fight-back which both warmed and was
MALVERN Town extended their lead at the top of the West Midlands Premier Division table to six points, as Dean Roberts helped himself to a second succesive hat-trick in a 4-0 rout of lowly Smethwick last night. Town opened the scoring in the 16th minute
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' Nationwide League Division Three relegation battle against Cheltenham Town was called off for safety reasons last night after Aggborough was plunged into darkness by a power failure. A problem at a nearby power sub-station caused
BROMSGROVE School's U15s rugby team crashed out of the Daily Mail U15s Schools Cup following a 49-19 defeat at Northampton School for Boys. The fifth round, also the last 16 stage, loss came on Tuesday, January 13. The final of the national competition
SCHOOLCHILDREN will top the invitation list when Bromsgrove hosts the rugby World Cup next week. The Finstall Park club currently expects to have the William Webb Ellis trophy from about 4pm to 8pm on Friday, February 6, although new details surrounding
REDDITCH United face a make-or-break month ahead of them as they lock horns with their closest league rivals. Reds manager Rod Brown says February is a "huge" month for his side as they bid to become Dr Martens Western champions - despite still being
DEAR EDITOR -- Through the Letters page I would like to express our thanks to all the market traders in Droitwich and the customers and colleagues of Brian Bushell for their very kind thoughts and compassion at this very sad time. I will purchase something
DEAR EDITOR - On the news recently it was announced that when a motorist is fined for speeding or other offences, he will also be fined an extra £5 towards victim support. Where I do feel for victims of crime, should that £5 and a lot more come from the
DEAR EDITOR -- I am still smarting from the knowledge that through general taxation I contributed to the refurbishment of Clarence House. It is nothing less than staggering that we, the general public who paid for the work, are then charged should we
DEAR EDITOR - A very big thank-you for the very generous donations to the George Mitchell Appeal, given by the parents who brought their children to see Father Christmas.Thanks also to the people who came to the door with donations. The amount raised
DEAR EDITOR - We are well into winter and we are enduring National Hunt racing again over the sticks with the usual crop of horses with broken legs, spines or ruptured innards. Prior to the running of the Grand National last year, I saw in the Sporting
COUNTY bosses including Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton have rejected pressure from Zimbabwe and put their faith in the England and Wales Cricket Board to make the right decision about the national team's controversial winter tour. Zimbabwe
DEAR EDITOR - I am dismayed to read in the Advertiser (Trees are due for the chop - January 21) that the unusual white poplar trees on the Safeway roundabout are to be felled in February. Can I urge the Highways Partnership Unit to re think such a drastic
Maypole Juniors 3, Bromsgrove Corinthians 1 Bromsgrove threw away too many chances in this Central Warwickshire Youth League Division Two under-14s fixture. Andy Court put Corries in front, but a missed Bromsgrove penalty summed it all up. Jon Bowe was
DOG and Pheasant failed to make it to the final of the Bromsgrove Advertiser/Messenger League's Rose Bowl. They lost Sunday's semi-final against Stoke Prior Sporting 4-2. Meanwhile in the league the bottom team in Division One, Ringspanners, picked up
Alcester 19 Stoke Old Boys 12 Alcester 19 Stoke Old Boys 12 A THIRD successive league victory for Alcester against Stoke Old Boys catapulted them to third in the Warwickshire One. But it took a superb individual try by Alcester's left wing Robbie Parker
'TAYLOR tops' is still the situattion as Alvechurch matchman Peter Taylor continued his good run on Tuesday at the latest round of the Starlets Veterans Individual Winter League at Woodland View. Pole fishing maggots and pinkies at Deans pool peg 47 he
COLOURFUL costumes, dazzling dance routines and spectacular songs are just some of the highlights of a new pantomime opening in Bromsgrove next month. More than a thousand people are set to cram into the NewSong Community Church, in Sidemoor, to see one
A REDDITCH car company is donating 100 cars worth £1 million to a national children's charity as part of a major partnership project. Cresser Car Company, Washford Drive, is supporting the Surestart National Children's Home (NCH) project by supplying
A TOWN centre law firm which has helped more than 1,000 needy residents with housing problems will be closing down at the end of this month. Church Green-based Fentimans has, through Legal Aid, represented tenants at hundreds of court cases and is the
Wednesday, January 28 Film: Together With You, Cinemac, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, 5.45pm. Musical: Blood Brothers, Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Coventry. Until Saturday. Pantomime: Cinderella, Hippodrome Theatre, Hurst Street, Birmingham
RESIDENTS are invited to put their best foot forward for a walk around Hagley next weekend. The Fairfield Ramblers will enjoy a two-and-a-half hour walk around pretty Hagley on February 7. The group will meet a Nimmings car park in Hagley Wood Lane at
IN reply to Frank L Jones (You Say, Wednesday, January 21), I am a little disappointed by his scathing attack on agencies such as Forums for Older People. This organisation goes quietly along making representations and attending meetings with principle
A glass of sherry welcomed us to our first meeting of 2004. We welcomed new member Lesley Mackenzie and one visitor, Mrs Osborne. The minutes were read and several notices given out. Our President, Jenny Marsh, reported the death of Carla Clements. She
REGARDING your front page story headlined "Big Brother's snapping You" (Evening News, Wednesday, January 21) about the arrival of more speed cameras in Worcester, it was useful to see the statistics regarding the accident rates on the new camera sites
AN adventurous Bromsgrove woman is heading out to Africa for an eight-day charity trek across the desert. It will be something of a homecoming for Mandy Church, who spent the first eight years of her life on the continent - though on the East rather than
SCHOOL pupils in Bromsgrove have been learning a lesson that could save their lives. The children of Lickey End First School spent a morning with area road safety officer John Dakin monitoring the speed of cars on nearby Alcester Road. "They were shocked
BRIGHT sparks at the Aston Fields Social Club held a charity quiz night and raised £350 for a good cause. Members of the Stoke Road club pitted their wits earlier this month in aid of the George Mitchell Appeal Fund. Two-year-old George was diagnosed
YOUNGSTERS at schools in and around Bromsgrove marked the most important event in the Chinese calendar by monkeying around with their teachers' blessing. January 22 marked the start of 15 days of fun and festivities to herald in the Chinese New Year,
AN action group has been set up by parents to fight closure plans for a Bromsgrove special school. More than 40 parents were at a meeting last week to come up with a plan aimed at stopping the closure of Rigby Hall in Aston Fields - the Advertiser/Messenger's
A drunken joke led to a man losing five teeth in a vicious attack in a park, Worcester Crown Court heard. The girlfriend of Nicholas Pinfield rang him on a mobile and pretended she was going to have sex with another man. Furious Pinfield raced to Sanders
Two members of a gang involved in a £75,000 raid, in which a lorryload of sweets and cakes were stolen, have been found guilty. Three other men pleaded guilty before the trial began at Worcester Crown Court and another man is still on the run from police
CONTINUING financial problems, and a need to speed up change to bring the district council back on track, are just some of the criticisms in a report which has now been sent out to local councillors. The report was compiled by the Audit Commission which
Youngsters from Chawson first enjoyed a lively science production when a touring theatre group visited their school. The children were entranced by the Quantum Theatre Group company, which put on a play exploring the wonderful world of science. School
youngsters at a village first school took a step back in time when they looked at life in the Victorian era. Organiser Faye Little visited Tibberton First School on Monday to give the children a hands-on experience of life in 19th century Britain. The
youngsters from Wychbold First and Nursery have been getting in touch with nature thanks to their special forest school area. The site in the school grounds is an area where birds can visit and feed. It was set up by the youngsters last year. Recently
POLICE in Bromsgrove are cracking down on drivers who flout the seat belt laws. Officers in North Worcestershire are launching Operation Jeopardy to tackle the increasing problem of people who are not buckling up. Inspector Ian Massey, from the division's
A Spa man with a behavioural disorder, found walking along the motorway at night in a suicide bid, has been badly let down by the medical system, it was claimed. Police found Spencer Craig, of Singer Hill, wandering along the M5 between junctions six
THE Spa's elderly were this week being urged to wrap-up and stay warm as the much-heralded cold snap finally descended on the region. With temperatures hitting lows of around minus 5C, there was concern that the elderly should not only don snug clothing
MICK Tuohy's departure is probably the hardest decision I have had to make in all my time in the game. You are in a position to make decisions and I would like to think I haven't ducked any decisions during my time at the club. There are no hidden agendas
BURY 0, HARRIERS 0 JAN Molby would probably have been hopping mad after a frustrating goal-less game like this three years ago. But on taking charge of a struggling team last October, the Dane's expectations are much lower in his second spell at Kidderminster
SIX new CCTV cameras are to be installed in Redditch town centre, taking the total up to 20. Redditch Council agreed to a support system, including cabling, for the new cameras at a full council meeting last week. The cameras, which will be sited around
THE chairman of an advanced driving group says the county council is 'putting lives at risk' with the position of new 40mph signs on the Alvechurch Highway. Gerry Harrison, of Rospa's West Midlands Advanced Driving Association, said the signs give motorists
HOLOCAUST Memorial Day was marked in Redditch on Saturday with a large turnout at the Kingfisher Centre. The day of remembrance not only marked the deaths of millions in the Nazi genocide but other atrocities and human rights abuses. The Rev Andrew Smith
PUPILS at Ipsley Middle School enjoyed a new musical experience on Friday when they learnt to play the African Djembe drums during a workshop. Professional musician Rod Smith led a two-day workshop at the Winyates Way school, linked to the children's
A CROOK with a long police record tried to smuggle a wrap of cannabis into a prison for an inmate he had served time with, Worcester Crown Court heard. William Innes dropped the drug into a cup in a visitors' area of Blakenhurst prison. But his actions
SO, the Liberal Democrats are going to start a petition for a local income tax. This is a Lib Dem national campaign and will do nothing to help local residents improve their quality of life via the things currently under the control of local council and
A 12-hour sermon might not be everybody's idea of fun - but a group of young parishioners has just endured one for a good cause. The group of 12 and 13 year olds spent most of Saturday tethered to pews listening to sermons at St Luke's Church, in Headless
I HAVE just read the letter ''Honest boys restored my faith'' (Advertiser, January 14), which was very good but a bit different to my own experience. I am a senior citizen living in a block of flats and until a few days before Christmas, was the owner
DO any other council taxpayers feel that with the proposed introduction by Bromsgrove Council of two wheelie bins and two plastic boxes on our properties, we should be compensated for storing them? The council has never supplied us with plastic sacks
AS one of Alcester's older generation who has to use public transport, may I bring to your notice the filthy state of our buses - inside and out. Time was when paid cleaners did their jobs admirably but in this money-motivated society, it seems this is
AN 'Ian Huntley' cannot be allowed to slip through the net according to Redditch councillors pushing for stringent criminal background checks on taxi drivers. Redditch Council's executive committee was adamant that despite Home Office advice to the contrary
PROPOSALS which might have seen traditional black cabs on the streets of Redditch have been voted down by councillors. Council taxi licensing officers had suggested introducing a policy where all new Hackney Carriage drivers would have to invest in a
AN arson attack at a Woodrow school on Saturday evening could have led to several blocks being completely destroyed by fire. A rubbish bin filled with waste was set alight and pushed against the front doors of Dingleside Middle School at about 8pm. The
MEMBERS were welcomed to the first meeting of 2004 by incoming president Mrs Janet Baines. The meeting began with the speaker and his associates from Felicity Hat Hire, Leamington Spa. They modelled a sample of their 500 hats, many of which were made
A REPORT suggests Redditch has the highest cost per capita when it comes to caring for its parks and green areas compared to similar authorities. But the report for councillors also notes that these leisure areas generate one of the lowest incomes compared
YOUNGSTERS from a Blackwell school have been learning basketball skills from some of the best in the business. Players from the Birmingham Bullets have given two hours a week to help teach students at Hunter's Hill School, in Spirehouse Lane. One-hour
A REDDITCH parent governor has thrown down the gauntlet to Government officials after an independent report claimed the county was entitled to a top-up to its education grant. The Blanchflower and Oswald Report into calculations on Area Cost Adjustment
TABLE tennis stars from county schools descended on Bromsgrove last Saturday for a major tournament. More than 70 competitors contested 240 matches at U11s, U13s, U16s and U19s level in the Worcestershire Schools Individual Table Tennis Championships
A BLIND clairvoyant who has done readings for bands, including Ash and Coldplay, is bringing her stage show Second Sight to the Palace Theatre. Sharon Neill, a psychic medium who has been blind from birth, is appearing in Redditch as part of her first
BROMSGROVE and Redditch AC members, 13 in all, travelled to Stratford for a new shortened version of the Roman 9. A field of over 755 tackled the demanding 12k course with Julian Moorehouse of Birchfield Harriers being a convincing winner in 37min.17secs
VOLUNTEER golf marshals are needed to help at a major tournament later this year. Mavis Drew, of Cofton Hackett, is looking for assistance for the Daily Telegrpah Damovo British Masters at the Marriott Forest of Arden Golf Club. The event, part of the
THE AGM on January 13 was well attended and was chaired by Joyce Mumford. Joyce will be chairman for another year and the present committee will also continue with the addition of Chris Brotherton. Ann Pyne, who has been president for many years, has
A FENCING duo from Bromsgrove has been crowned champions at a Birmingham event. The U12s foil pairing of Rebecca Phillips and Helen Brookes, both from Bromsgrove Prep School, defeated all in their path to win their age group at the Birmingham Schools
A superb evening of entertainment was organised on Friday, January 16, to raise funds towards the refurbishment of the village hall. An inter-club challenge quiz between 19 teams from the many clubs which use the hall ended in a joint victory by The Lost
A RECORD number of pupils from Bromsgrove School have qualified for the English Schools Cross Country Championships. Seven pupils from the Worcester Road school will feature at the event in Maidstone, Kent, on March 13. Sam Harding and Steve Blassberg
A GLASS of punch, organised by Trixie Healey and Pat Warby, was served as president Sue Canfield welcomed members and visitors to the December open meeting. Speaker Lynda Longbottom demonstrated how to stay de-stressed through Real Relaxation. All those
BROMSGROVE Swimming Club finished third in the first round of the Worcester Winter League despite two disqualifications. Bromsgrove, the host team, achieved three first place finishes on Saturday, January 17, in the shape of Simon Smith (Open 100m backstroke
THE January meeting was hosted by vice-president Jackie Grier as president May Lloyd was ill. The schedules for the Spring Food, Flower and Craft Day in May were read out, plans to spend funds were discussed and a summer outing put forward for discussion
TWO Bromsgrove and Redditch AC girl athletes were in impressive form at Birmingham's NIA on Sunday Each competed in two events with Jade Peak, who attends Waseley Hills High School, winning her 60 metres race in a time of 8.32secs for a new personal best
AT the December meeting, Christine Sheen, from Bishops Itchington, entertained on her keyboard and also sang and told amusing stories. Before lunch on January 14, a bring and buy sale was held. Members also brought along samples of their hobbies, including
ON Tuesday, January 20, we were treated to a highly entertaining and informative talk about mother of pearl by George Hook and his colleague, Linda. George began by telling us the company had started in 1824 in the Jewellery Quarter, Hockley, and all
AT the December meeting, members were taken back in time to the second year of the reign of Elizabeth I by Hope Proudfoot, peddler by trade, who told stories of her life. She only took a room at night if she earned enough coins, otherwise she slept in
MORE than 50 town children made a big splash when they took part in the Redditch Schools Aquathlon. The event at Kingsley Sports Centre included youngsters from middle and high schools in Years 6, 7, 9 and 10. It was the first schools event of its kind
A THIEF who stole from a grieving widow's car as she visited her husband's grave has been given a four-month jail sentence. Anthony Brown forced the boot of Diana Anker's Renault in Church Lane, Bromsgrove, and stole her handbag. A cigarette butt found
MACMILLAN Cancer Relief is appealing to townspeople to donate their old mobile phones and used toner cartridges to raise vital funds for cancer care services in the area. The charity's local fund-raising manager Jon Rayner said: "Through our special arrangement
YOUNG builders at Studley Community Infants School recently took part in a hands-on experience to build a house of their own. The Can We Build It? day was organised by the Warwickshire Education Business Partnership in conjunction with the Construction
THE fraught dispute over the Studley bypass scheme continued at a public inquiry last week as opposing factions cross-examined each other at Studley Village Hall. The inquiry will decide whether 1993 route orders for an Alcester to Gorcott Hill bypass
FOR the first time ever, out-of-town greenfield sites are safe from development because Redditch has already met its housing targets up until 2011. The news follows the release of the draft Local Plan detailing future areas for development up to that
January 26, 1979 REDDITCH old town is on a second-class treatment programme" which must not be tolerated, according to one local councillor. Councillor Paul Dyson claims that the Lodge Park area in particular is badly serviced. "Road cleaning is certainly
January 29,1954 REDDITCH as a town with wide sweeping streets and with airy and spacious factories was visualised by a speaker at last Friday's fifth annual dinner held by the Redditch Business and Professional Womens' Club. The club would do its best
FARMERS in Coughton and the surrounding areas fear for the safety of their livestock after reports of wild boars roaming the land. In one incident, a farmer was forced to shoot one of the beasts after he was warned there was a vicious boar on the loose
POLICE in Alcester believe arsonists may be targeting the town after a serious, suspicious blaze at a building site which caused more than £100,000 damage. Fire crews received reports of a fire at Minerva Mews at about 8pm on Monday, January 18, and police
SINCE the devastating death of their daughter, Paul and Jan Betts have talked to tens of thousands of people across the country in their determination to try to prevent even more deaths. Paul Betts' main message to the parents of Bidford was to go home
A LEADING employers' organisation has declared the manufacturing downturn over. The Confederation of British Industry yesterday published figures showing the clearest evidence yet of recovery in the sector. The CBI's closely-watched quarterly industrial
PART of a large retail park in Worcester has been sold for £13m. The section of Shrub Hill Retail Park to the east of the Worcester to Birmingham canal has been sold by developers St Modwen Properties plc. St Modwen developed the city centre site - which
This week's football fixtures across the two counties include: TONIGHT Midland Floodlit Youth League Premier Division: Hereford United v Burton Albion. South Division: Gloucester City v Bromyard Town. TOMORROW Nationwide League Division Three: Kidderminster
A COUPLE were being quizzed by detectives today over the grim discovery of a baby girl found entombed in a block of concrete 16 months ago. The 42-year-old man and 41-year-old woman, who have not been named, were arrested in Sandles Road, The Ridings,
WEIGHT watcher Katy Richards hopes to shed 50lbs in a bid to shape up and raise funds for charity. Mrs Richards, aged 21, from Bromsgrove, has already lost 37lbs using the Weight Watchers points system. So far she has raised more than £350 in sponsorship
DROITWICH Amateur Boxing Club is still waiting for building work to start on an £850,000 development more than six months after it was given the green light. The Evesham and Pershore Housing Association project to combine the club with housing for people
FRIENDS and family of the late David Tilt paid respect to the popular toastmaster at his funeral yesterday. The service of the much-loved Windsor Road resident was held at Salwarpe Church, off Copcut Lane, yesterday morning. The church was packed full
MURDER squad detectives investigating the death of skydiver Stephen Hilder will ask experts at a conference today whether they think it is possible he committed suicide. The 20-year-old Army cadet, from Stretton Sugwas, near Hereford, plummeted to his
AMATEUR photographers are being encouraged to get clicking and enter a wildlife photography competition. The Wild in Worcester competition is a way of encouraging people to get out and about in the many parks and nature reserves within the Worcester city
THE hills will be alive with the sound of music next month as Malvern plays host to a series of concerts commemorating the 70th anniversary of Sir Edward Elgar's death. The concerts, which will take place at Malvern's Priory Church on Church Street, have
POLICE officers will be patrolling the streets of Herefordshire in brand new stab-resistant and ballistic-protective vests from now on. The issue of the new vests to police officers, special constables, community support officers and some members of police
THE shining stars of a musical group are busy preparing for their latest fund-raising concert to help restore their rehearsal hall. Colla Voce will perform hits from a variety of musicals from Chicago to West Side Story to help restore St Mary's Hall,
DENTIST Ray Steggles fears that more and more of us are allowing our teeth to rot because we fear the dentists - and the pain we associate with it - so much that we are avoiding it altogether. Ray and his brother Graham are now on a mission - they want
A SPECTACULAR night of folk music and laughter will mark the end of an era for a popular town club. The Bromsgrove Folk Club will wave goodbye to the Ladybird Inn, in Aston Fields, a venue it has occupied for many years, at a special gig tomorrow night
SENIOR surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses from Worcestershire hospitals are to be called to explain operation cancellation figures supplied to Worcestershire County Council. According to the data, more than 3,000 operations were cancelled at acute hospitals
THE Freds are back in town! Popular tribute act Fred Zeppelin is back in Bromsgrove for one night only on February 13. They will play the Lickey End Social Club in Alcester Road from 8.30pm onwards. Tickets on 01527 878092.
STATELY home-owners and vicars are being warned to be on their guard following thefts of millions of pounds worth of antiques from houses and churches in the county last year. In one incident, a 17th Century carved oak bishop's chair, which is so rare
POLICE officers are growing increasingly concerned for the safety of a Hereford man who went missing five weeks ago. Officers are continuing their search for 20-year-old Ryan Taylor, who disappeared on Christmas Eve. Since his disappearance, police have
ROVERS (1) 1 BEDWORTH (0) 2 Dr Martens Western OVERALL this was a very poor performance from a sad and sorry Rovers with the visitors coming from behind in the second half to deservedly gain victory (writes Chris Fox). Bedworth were simply better in all
BROMSGROVE'S battling qualities came bubbling back to the surface to rescue the most unlikeliest of points in an absorbing Tuesday night encounter at the Victoria Ground. As the pressure on the need to finish no lower than seventh to guarantee a spot
ANYONE riding a motorised scooter without a licence, tax, and insurance is actually breaking the law, police have warned. The scooters were popular Christmas presents for youngsters but police have warned they fall under normal road traffic regulations
"WHEN such a lot is at stake, there's no time for games," Worcester MP Mike Foster declared about last night's 'top-up' fee drama. "We have to get money into universities and widen access for students from poorer backgrounds." We don't disagree, in principle
REDDITCH United face a make-or-break month ahead of them as they lock horns with their closest league rivals. Reds manager Rod Brown says February is a 'huge' month for his side as they bid to become Dr Martens Western champions - despite still being
A REDDITCH golfer has scooped the Chandler Shield at a special awards ceremony at Kings Norton Golf Club. Chris Bromley was one of only three golfers to be presented with an award at the annual dinner of the Worcester Union of Golf Clubs. The Chandler
NOW the dust has settled over Mick Tuohy's departure as City's first-team coach, thoughts will turn to who should be his replacement. John Barton is believed to have already identified several potential targets, the majority of whom are currently with
16/8/03 Ilkeston Town 0 REDDITCH UNITED 6 (Quiggin, Myers 3, Leadbeater, Ross) 23/8/03 REDDITCH UNITED 1 Clevedon Town 0 (Leadbeater) 25/8/03 Bromsgrove Rovers 0 REDDITCH UNITED 1 9Leadbeater) 30/8/03 FA CUP preliminary round: Leek CSOB 2 REDDITCH UNITED
A PILOT scheme has been launched to improve cleanliness and reduce litter across the borough. Under the new Redditch Council project, roads and paths in designated areas will be swept every two weeks and "hot spot" litter picking responded to on a daily
Redditch United boss Rod Brown has reshuffled his pack but there is no place for centre-back Gary Sucharewycz. The Reds have welcomed back all four of their central defenders from the physio's table - leaving no room for Sucharewycz who left the Valley
REDDITCH MP Jacqui Smith was recently given an overview of the work which has been carried out as part of the "designing out crime" project being undertaken by the council and the police. Last Friday, Ms Smith was on site at Matchborough Centre for a
England football hopefuls Stephen Knock and Shea Hunt have narrowly missed out on their dream of making the national under-18 squad. Both Stephen, 17, and Shea, 18, who attend Alcester Grammar School, spent time training at England's football centre of
A NEW production of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House, adapted by Bryony Lavery, opens at Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Tuesday. Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, the play stars Tara Fitzgerald as Nora, a loving, loyal wife and wonderful mother whose husband
Coventry Marconi 1 Feckenham 1 FECKENHAM boss Lee Adams believed Marconi deserved their late equaliser after his side missed golden opportunities to wrap up a Midland Combination Premier victory on Saturday. Striker Brian Powell fired The Millers into
Stratford Town 4 Alvechurch 0 ALVECHURCH boss Neil Bryan declared he had no qualms about his side's demoralising Midland Alliance defeat at Stratford on Saturday. The Churchmen were boosted before kick off with the arrival of Redditch Town loan man Richard
A NEW comedy by prolific playwright Alan Ayckbourn, Sugar Daddies, opens at Malvern's Festival Theatre on Tuesday. Described as "a cautionary comedy of dark intentions" the play, which is also directed by the author, is Ayckbourn's 64th and on tour after
A NEW play, Forward, inspired by the statue of the same name, opens at The Door at Birmingham's REP on February 5. The debut play by Robert Warrington, a graduate MA of Playwriting Studies at Birmingham University, concerns the Raymond Mason statue, which
BROMSGROVE men's second XI turned in a much improved performance to hold visiting Pershore to a 1-1 draw. Following the previous week's poor display and defeat at Market Drayton Bromsgrove skipper Si Clifton was looking for a better showing and put in
TEN voluntary organisations shared varying sized grants from the £5,150 profits accumulated from the Bromsgrove District Council-run lottery. They ranged from £2,000 to £100. So far the scheme had shown a profit of £27,479. The £3,000 skateboard surface
WALTER Webb was celebrating the early arrival of twin lambs Nina and Shaggy, at his Townsend Farm in Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove. He said last season's first happy event had not taken place until February. ONE of Bromsgrove's best-known men, baker and
ANNIE Hughes, aged 26, a domestic servant, was brought up at Bromsgrove Petty Sessions charged with attempting to conceal the body of her newborn infant son by placing it in a parcel in an alley off Ednall Lane. Annie Nowel, 13, of Beech Tree House, The
REDDITCH Council staff are to undergo training to use defibrillators which are to be installed at sports centres across the town. Five defibrillators have been bought by the council and will be sited at Abbey Stadium, Hewell Road Swimming Pool, St Augustine's
MICK Tuohy says he was "bitterly disappointed" to be axed as Worcester City's first team coach. Tuohy said manager John Barton's decision to relieve him of his duties after more than four years in the post came as a surprise. But he's beginning to come
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers' Nationwide League Division Three relegation battle against Cheltenham Town was called off for safety reasons last night after Aggborough was plunged into darkness by a power failure. A problem at a nearby power sub-station caused
BREDON moved out of the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League division two relegation zone for the first time this season with victory at neighbours Mountinneers. Doubles from Lee Diamond and Stuart Franklin secured the win. Goals from Layton (2) and
EVESHAM United Ladies entertained Bredon in the Kidderminster Women's League and extended their winning sequence to four games with an 8-0 victory. They took the lead on six minutes, Charlotte Benson-Wilson setting up Nicky Bond to score. It took until
* (I) indicates Internet entries WINNERS of commemorative packs of steam train stamps in a Shuttle/Times & News competition sponsored by Royal Mail are: P Coles, Vale Industrial Estate, Kidderminster; P Connolly, Whitville Close, Kidderminster; B
BROMSGROVE Cricket, Hockey and Tennis Club have just had their bar extended and improved and to celebrate they are holding an American theme party this Saturday night from 8pm. All members and friends are invited to come along and enjoy the fun.
IT'S June, 2002, and Pam Goodall has enjoyed another game of tennis and is looking forward to her line-dancing evening. She might be retired but Pam has a massive energy and zest for life and can't wait to spend her retirement years living an active and
MIDLANDS 18-Group Clubs beat their counterparts, the Midlands 18-Group Schools side, 12-0 at Bromsgrove School on Sunday. The game was played as preparation for the game between a Midlands Under-18 Invitation side and the England 18-Group Schools side
DROITWICH 16, STRATFORD 13 Midlands Three West (South) A VITAL win for Droitwich in a close and keenly fought battle at the Memorial Ground on Saturday. Both sides needed the points to keep in touch with the top two and it was always evident this would
DEAR EDITOR - In the Daily Telegraph this morning it is reported on the front page that a driver refused to pay a speeding fine and spent a week in jail. He remains unrepentant. This item reminded me that last week along the A38 at Upton Warren, just
DEAR EDITOR - At the next District and County Elections should it not be compulsory for those putting themselves forward to publish their mandate? I have no recollection of any of the councillors saying if you ever elect me I will do my very best to take
DEAR EDITOR - I was annoyed to read articles in the local press regarding the naming of Droitwich's lido. Firstly, the future of Droitwich Spa is apparently only in the hands of 15-35 year olds. Excuse me - I am 50+ and also have a daughter who is 10
DEAR EDITOR - Reading of Wychavon's annual cash awards to clubs and organisations, I see that Droitwich is again stitched up by Evesham and Pershore in as much as 12 nominations in Evesham benefited, 12 in Pershore and just six in Droitwich. Of these
DEAR EDITOR - A 'New Labour' MP has just been on local radio rabbiting on about schools being responsible - if you please - for inculcating good standards of behaviour! Most people believe discipline starts in the cradle, that parents have a critical
DEAR EDITOR -- The Cats Protection Christmas Cat Food Collection has now come to a close. We would like to say a very big thank you to the public for their amazing generosity, and to Safeway, Droitwich and Townsend Veterinary Practice, Droitwich for their
DEAR EDITOR - I am hoping your readers will be able to help me as I have been trying for more than a month to trace a David and Marjorie Walker-Roberts who, I understand, live in the Birmingham/Bromsgrove area. David and my father were in the RAF together
DEAR EDITOR - I recently received a copy of the Wychavon District Council magazine free with your newspaper. I was disgusted to read Wychavon's boast that they are building a multi-million pound state of the art hospital for Pershore. Also new GP health
DEAR EDITOR - I am the local contact for the War Research Society run mainly by retired and serving police officers and ex-servicemen as a charitable hobby. It was founded many years ago and supports a number of charities including the Royal British Legion
Redditch 20 Kings Norton 27 A DERBY-day thriller at Bromsgrove Road ended with Kings Norton taking the all the spoils as Norton prop Richard Revell ran in a hatrick of tries. Redditch were first to score after just three minutes as Will Wilson kicked
Barnt Green Spartak (2) 3, Old Hill Town (0) 0 Midland Football Combination Division One TABLE-TOPPING Spartak racked up their 17th win of the season to maintain their seven point advantage over second placed Pilkington. They got off to a great start
FOLLOWING last week's article in the Advertiser about novice racing driver Natalie Nokes, we have been asked to clarify certain points. Natalie has not accepted a position with the Jamun FF1600 team run by James Crofts and nor does she intend to. However
Littleton (0) 2, Fairfield Villa (0) 0 Midland Combination Division One FAIRFIELD'S hopes of moving into the top half of the table failed to materialise when they travelled to Evesham-based side Littleton who are in third place. Villa were soon in trouble
Cadbury 4, Droitwich Spa 4 Midland Combination Division Two DROITWICH threw away a match winning position in the last minute after coming back from two down. After a slow start by Spa a combination of bad defending and good finishing saw Cadbury score
MICK Tuohy says he was "bitterly disappointed" to be axed as Worcester City's first team coach. Tuohy said manager John Barton's decision to relieve him of his duties after more than four years in the post came as a surprise. But he's beginning to come
Burton Colts 20, Bromsgrove 17 THE young Boars suffered a narrow defeat - their first of the year - against a Burton outfit who were able to field six replacements to none from Bromsgrove. The Boars, missing several players unable to play for a variety
BROMSGROVE 28, STAFFORD 3 Midlands Two (West) TOWN retained their position as league leaders with a comfortable victory over a physically strong Stafford opposition. Stafford competed in most areas of play but lacked the finesse and cutting edge that
THE rib-tickling tale of three feuding Jewish women will take centre stage at a Droitwich Spa playhouse next month. Theatregoers are invited to laugh their socks off with The Cemetery Club at the Norbury Theatre from Tuesday, February 10 to Saturday 14
DON'T forget to snap up tickets for the first meeting of 2004 of the WORDS group. Bromsgrove poet Geoffrey Hill will be guest speaker at the Conference Room of LG Harris Brushworks in Stoke Prior on February 13. He will discuss how his Worcestershire
DISPLAYS of trick riding from all over the world are the speciality of the Mystic Horsemen - and visitors to the Midlands Equine Fair, which takes place at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern on March 13 and 14, will have the ideal opportunity to see
FOR the last indoor meeting of 2003, Wendy Conway, award-winning wildlife photographer, gave an illustrated talk on life on the Greek island of Lesvos. The island has a large fishing community, olive groves and meadows which provide a wealth of flora,
Celebrations for Christmas were held at Littleheath Nurseries restaurant where 30 plus members enjoyed an excellent meal and fun evening. Our New Year started with a meeting on January 7 which was a talk by Philip Aubrey from the botanical gardens, on
IT was with great sadness that I read of the possible closure of the nursery assessment unit at Thornton House School. Anyone who has been to the school and witnessed the ultimate dedication of the wonderful staff, the superb facilities and the happy
THE first of the Bromsgrove branch of the RNLI monthly meetings for 2004 started on a very cheerful note. Notification had been received from Poole that the branch had been awarded either a framed certificate or a gavel in honour of their loyal support
WHATEVER next? I have just read your article about the plan for a council "surcharge' on B&Bs and hotels in Worcester. Does the council want Worcester to turn in to a ghost town? Does it not want any visitors? It has already increased car-parking
Nancy Butterfly Women's Morris are having another recruitment drive and if anyone thinks that exercising is boring, they should come and give Morris dancing a try. We dance in the style of North West Clog and are having two open evenings and would welcome
A FATHER-of-one died from a single stab wound to the stomach in his Rubery flat. Twenty-eight-year-old Patrick Peters was found dead in his flat above shops in New Road in the early hours of Monday morning. Police were called to the flat above Tino's
A MOUTHWATERING insight into the 'supermarket' which supplied Bromsgrove families with their weekly box of groceries a century ago, has been uncovered by the new owners of a shop in the town centre. Patricia and Antony Kent, who are opening the latest
HEAVEN is a halfpipe according to the youngsters who entered a skateboard park design competition. it real: Daniel Babbington, Steve Vranic, Sam Lee, Julie Pitts and Nic Thomas, who are campaigning for their own skatepark. As part of the campaign to build
A BROMSGROVE headteacher has made a formal complaint after what he claims was an unfair Ofsted report on his school. John Graham, of Parkside Middle School, says he is dissatisfied with the way the report from the team of inspectors has been worded. The
VOTERS in the Sidemoor ward will have three candidates to choose from when they go to the polls next month. The district council by-election on Thursday, February 19, has been called by the resignation of Labour councillor Paul Stokes. As revealed in
A HANDSOME trophy that survived being dumped on a rubbish tip and was last won nearly 70 years ago will again be keenly competed for by local gardeners. The nine-inch high challenge trophy, originally presented to the winner of a collection of vegetables
Creative youngsters from Cutnall Green First School now have even more space to develop their skills thanks to a new classroom. The new room was opened earlier this month to accommodate the increasing number of children attending the school. Another classroom
DROITWICH Spa Amateur Boxing Club is still waiting for building work to start on an £850,000 development more than six months after it was given the green light. The Evesham and Pershore Housing Association project to combine the club with housing for
Work has finally started in Droitwich on the brand new Waitrose. After years of planning, the store, which is being built on land previously occupied by Droitwich Market Hall, is beginning to take shape. The new store is expected to open in summer 2005
Hundreds of Spa jobs have been saved after a £450m merger of GUS Home Shopping and March UK was approved last Thursday. Trade secretary Patricia Hewitt finally endorsed the recommendation of the Competition Commission that the acquisition of the Great
A POPULAR Redditch hairdresser and one-time columnist for the Advertiser has died of cancer aged 61. Chris Mercer, of Mercers Hairdressers, passed away last Tuesday. He had cut the hair of townsfolk for more than 35 years and in the late 1970s he wrote
THE news of £1.5 million being made available by the Government to help Redditch Council improve its housing stock is excellent, if it actually materialises (Advertiser, January 21). But it does need to be seen in context. From next April, the council
REDDITCH has been chosen to host a national sporting event which will generate more than £100,000 for the town's economy. The British Triathlon Association will be holding the 2004 National Sprint Triathlon Championships on Sunday, May 23, at Arrow Valley
REDDITCH police have called for 'serious consideration' to be given to the design and materials used for a planned development in the town centre 'in light of the current terrorist threat'. Kingfisher Centre owners Thornfield want to demolish Car Park
WHAT a refreshing change. Albert Wharrad finally admits the diabolical condition and quality of windows in council houses is due to the old Labour Council (Letters, January 21). Clearly, years ago the Labour council (rather like this Labour Government
MY favourite guru once said: "The art of leadership is to take people with you". Taking a completely objective view of the financing of local government services, the submission that those who use local government services should be required to contribute
I READ the Alexandra Hospital has appointed a Patient Advice and Liaison officer (Advertiser, January 21), yet another admistrative post whilst waiting lists get even longer due to staff shortages and lack of funds. I telephoned the Alex today to inquire
DROITWICH Dolphins started the new swimming season in excellent form securing second place in the first round of the Worcester Winter League last week. In all, the swimmers took either first or second place in half of the events including all the team
IT was handicap cup week in the Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis league this week. In this cup, teams are awarded points according to their strength. These points are kept in a sealed envelope, which is opened after the game is over, which means that
THE organisation celebrated its 80th birthday on January 10 and the Redditch club noted the occasion with a splendid cake at the January 13 meeting. President Irene Gardner welcomed district chairman Jeanne Dorsett and invited her to light the candle
A DOCTOR at the Alexandra Hospital and a former heart bypass patient have been named as two of 'the UK's real heartwarmers'. Dr Dzifa Abban and Denise Winters, who are both linked to Redditch's Hale and Hearties patient support group, won a national competition
A SNOOKER player from Droitwich Spa has potted his way into the record books by setting a new high break target at his local club. Garry Ford (pictured) shot to the top of the high break chart at Droitwich Snooker Centre, in St Andrews Square, after rattling
MORE than 40 member and friends attended the January meeting. President Alison Warren welcomed everyone and gave details of future events. Ipsley will be hosting the Redditch Group Meeting in April. A team of Ipsley members will take part in a county
THE penultimate round of the West Midlands Cyclo-Cross League was held last Sunday on a very arduous and slippery course at Pitcheroak Woods, organised by Redditch Road and Path Cycling Club. Jason Dingley had a good ride in the Under 12's to take fourth
JOHN Bickerton is due to begin his PGA European Tour 2004 campaign tomorrow (Thursday) at the Johnnie Walker Classic in Bangkok. The Droitwich Spa golf ace, 38th on the Volvo Order of Merit last year, has been warming up for the new season in Dubai. The
THE first meeting of 2004 opened with the reading of the minutes and correspondence. Mr Dennis Charlton gave an amusing talk about his experiences as an actor in repertory companies. His memories of fellow actors were of great interest to many theatre-going
THE battle against antisocial behaviour looks like it is finally being won in an area of Redditch where a no-nonsense approach is reaping benefits for both residents and police. A team of dedicated police officers who cover Church Hill, Matchborough and
Our January meeting was very well supported and we all enjoyed the get-together after the Christmas break. Business was fairly brief and soon dealt with. Some of our members are interested in a "Map Day" outing. Our speaker, Dave Lord, entertained us
Redditch United 0 Taunton Town 0 CHANCES were few and far between as the Reds looked to get back to winning ways at the Valley on Saturday. And with three minutes left on the clock, Richard Burgess thought he'd given United the vital winning goal against
PLANS for a 100 bed hotel and 86 homes on the site of a former railway goods yard near the town centre look set to be given the go ahead. A planning application for the four-storey hotel, flats and terraced houses off Hewell Road will be debated by Redditch
THE first big event of the year kicks off at Redditch's Forge Mill Museum on Sunday - and it promises to be a fascinating, albeit curious affair. To celebrate the start of its Curious Collections exhibition, the museum is throwing open its doors for free
WORCESTER Rugby Club were heaving a sigh of relief last night after it emerged Drew Hickey's injury wasn't serious. The number eight, who has played a significant part in the Warriors' 16-match National One winning run this season, received good news
January 30, 1904 REDDITCH Petty Sessions - Joseph Tolley, dealer, Red Lion Street, was on the evidence of PC Gittus fined 2s 6d and 4 shillings cost for allowing a horse to stray on the 19th inst. Defendant said the horse was locked in the field but something
THE Alcester branch of the Royal British Legion is celebrating after announcing it has once again broken all branch records by collecting over £11,500 during its 2003 Poppy Appeal. The figure for last year stood at just over an impressive £10,000 and
RESIDENTS of Alcester were last week called on to sign a petition organised by the Liberal Democrats asking the government to 'Axe the Tax'. Spokesman Councillor Susan Juned said: "Council tax is now the most unpopular tax in Britain today - because it's
A NEW special constable will soon be on the streets of Alcester to help the community and keep the peace. Thomas Wright (pictured above), 19, recently took part in an attestation ceremony at Police Headquarters. Mr Wright said his family were very supportive
A WELL-known folk musician who has his audience rolling in the aisles with his gift for comedy will be performing at Alcester Grammar School on Friday from 7.30pm. Vin Garbutt is returning to the school after a hugely popular concert there in October
REDDITCH YMCA'S nursery services have improved after moving from their Church Hill Centre base to Ravensbank First School. It moved this week after a £29,000 grant from the Worcestershire Early Years Childcare Development Partnership (EYCDP) in December
A RESPITE care home which caused a storm of protest from neighbours when it was given planning permission last month has been registered by the National Care Standards Commission. Residents of Compton Close in Southcrest objected to the home, which is
A SPECIAL meeting has been set up to call for a parish poll on the controversial £1 million extension to St Laurence's Church in Alvechurch. During the meeting at the village hall tonight, questions will be asked surrounding the building of The Ark, which
