FOUR Worcestershire people, including two children, have been recognised for their outstanding achievements and dedication by St John Ambulance. Malvern St John Ambulance Cadets, Jonathan Winters, aged 14, and his sister Rebecca, 11, have been recognised
IT will be a case of all aboard for youngsters in St Peter's who are set to have the use of a double decker bus with a difference to spend their free time in. Over the summer holidays St Peter's Parish Council funded a host of activities for the young
ELDERLY and disabled citizens are now being offered extended opening hours by Worcester Wheels, the local community transport scheme. Starting this week, the telephones in the centre's The Tything-based offices will be manned between 10am-4pm on Mondays
FAMILIES are being given the opportunity to bag a prized compost bin at a bonanza sale next month. Worcestershire County Council says the bins have been like "gold dust" ever since it introduced them in April as part of a recycling campaign, prompting
A POLICE scheme teaching youngsters vital lessons in safety and potentially life-threatening situations is "going wild" - to highlight the growing problem of wildlife crime. Crucial Crew is an initiative run by West Mercia Police in Herefordshire and
KEEN dancers are being urged to put their best foot forward and join a dance group in Earls Croome. The Appleyard Ladies Traditional Dancers have been together for about 14 years and practise every Thursday - between 8pm and 10pm - at Earls Croome village
DROITWICH dog owners who allow their dogs to roam the streets unattended will be fined in a new crackdown. Wychavon District Council is launching a fresh attempt to rid the district's streets of stray dogs. Previously, when the council's dog wardens found
AWARD-winning actor Tom Conti launched his new literary career in Worcester. Mr Conti last night gave a talk at Ottakar's bookstore, in The Shambles, to promote his debut novel The Doctor. It was the first event he had held to publicise the book, a love
A CLUB steward was grabbed by two men as he was locking up for the night at Rocklands Social Club between 12.40-1.10am on Saturday. The raiders pulled the man back inside the bar area at the Birchfield Road venue and stole a money box containing a large
NEWLY promoted Whitchurch thrashed Bromsgrove Hockey Club Men's First XI 7-2. Last Saturday's result condemned Julian Court's side to their second straight defeat of the new West Midlands Division One season following their opening loss to Droitwich Spa
STUART How showed he has an eye for goal after putting on an exhibition at the Victoria Ground. How scored all four goals in the Reserves convincing 4-0 victory over Worcester City's second string last Saturday. Rovers also used the Midland Combination
DROITWICH Spa Hockey Club Men's First XI are the early pace setters in West Midlands Division One following their second win in a row. Paul Atkinson's side beat Rugeley 3-1 at home last Saturday despite trailing 1-0 at the break. Atkinson scored ten minutes
OUR communities are, by and large, pretty safe places to live. Compared with the conditions faced by some people across the UK, Worcestershire and Herefordshire are bastions of law and order. That is not to say we are crime-free - every community has
FORMER Halesowen Town skipper Asa Charlton has been snapped up by Redditch United. The left-sided defender, who's also played for Worcester City, walked out on The Yeltz last week after he and boss Paul Holleran held a meeting and agreed it was the right
REDDITCH MP Jacqui Smith attended All Women's House last week to learn all about the innovative Positive About You project aimed at children. The scheme, funded by Worcestershire Children's Fund, explores how children feel about themselves and are encouraged
Saturday, August 14 Runcorn FC (away): Runcorn 0-1 REDS (Simon Hollis) Tuesday, August 17,Worcester City (home): REDS 0-4 Worcester Saturday, August 21, Alfreton Town (home): REDS 1-3 Alfreton Town (Mark Taylor) Tuesday, August 24, Kettering Town (away
A PROJECT to turn a derelict building in Winyates Centre into a hostel for homeless people has been shelved because it would cost Redditch Council too much. Two weeks ago, Council Leader David Cartwright told the Advertiser about the plans for the former
REDDITCH Council has now introduced its Void Incentive Scheme, offering tenants the chance to receive £150 if they leave their council property in an agreed condition when they move out. When a tenant gives notice they intend to vacate a property, they
Terrified girl escapes clutches of sick pervert clad in a Hallowe'en costume. A CHILLING child abduction attempt was foiled when a Worcester schoolgirl ran away from a masked stranger in a Hallowe'en outfit. The Pitmaston Primary School pupil freed herself
Biddulph Victoria 1 Studley 1 AN early strike from Jamie Bayley ensured Studley emerged from deepest Staffordshire with a point. Bayley's fifth minute opener was cancelled out by the Vics Neil Prestridge after 25 minutes and Studley keeper Mark Sanders
Alvechurch 1 Chasetown 1 THE Churchmen had to come from behind to snatch a point at Lye Meadow against high-flying Chasetown. New keeper Greg Allan from Stratford Town got his debut under his belt but could do nothing as Steve Ball slotted home the visitors
A MOTORCYLIST is said to be in a comfortable condition in hospital following a road accident. Police are now appealing for witnesses to the crash, which involved a white VW Polo and a silver Yamaha motorcycle. The collision happened in Hindlip Lane, Hindlip
FORMER Worcester Mayor and Councillor Peter Elkins has died at the age of 75 after a year-long battle with ill health. Mr Elkins' ex-wife Sheila has paid tribute to the popular political stalwart, describing him as "quite a character who will be very
A WOMAN whose sister-in-law has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour is set to run not one, but three marathons across the world for charity. Anne Hardisty, aged 45, of Droitwich, hopes to tackle the mammoth challenge to say "thank you" to St
By Lynda Morrison IT'S a family affair when husband and wife, actors John Alderton and Pauline Collins, together with their daughter Kate star in the world premiere of Richard Harris's Going Straight at Malvern's Festival Theatre from Monday. Described
A DISABLED driver has hit out at traffic wardens for ignoring what he calls a "blatant abuse of the system and flouting of the law" by taxi drivers parking in bays for disabled people. In a letter to the city council, Rob Styles, from Church Lane, Hallow
STUDLEY villagers who want to service their community can take advantage of a vacancy which has arisen on the parish council. Since Mappleborough Green broke away to form its own parish council, two seats have been left at Studley. Recently chairman of
INKBERROW based Mouthpiece Theatre Company's new season starts this week with The Mysterious Mr Love, a play that gives "a tantalising glimpse behind the strait-laced facades of Edwardian England". The story concerns conman George, played by Marcus Fernando
FOUR weeks of waiting is finally over for Droitwich Spa Cricket Club as they picked up their first piece of silverware in seven years. The club's Sunday First XI won the Worcestershire Sunday Club Cricket League last month, losing just once in the process
BROMSGROVE and Redditch Athletes took part in the eight-mile North Worcestershire multi-terrain on Sunday. Despite the poor weather 160 athletes started the hilly off-road race which was promoted by Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletics Club. Tom Kenderdine
ANGLING: THE Oddfellows Cup was fished along the River Arrow by Astwood Bank's Dark Lane Angling Club on Saturday. Low weights ruled the day but Martin Spencer won with an excellent 14lb 9oz of chub off Oversley Meadow. Barry Feldhahn was a comfortable
KELVIN Langmead should be the next to extend his stay at Kidderminster Harriers today. The 19-year-old Preston forward, who has caught the eye despite not scoring from five starts and one sub appearance, is set to add another month onto his loan. Jan
DIVISION four newcomers Gate Inn came from behind to earn their first points of the season in the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League. Playing fellow new boys Lenches Lions, the Gate trailed at the interval despite an Allen goal. Lions led through White
TWO Worcester Triathlon Club members were successful again at the European Age Group Duathlon Championships. Michelle Parsons and Les Bailey, medal winners in 2003, took home a gold and silver respectively from Swansea. The competition attracted the cream
VICTORY was snatched from the hands of Droitwich Spa RFC First XV after an impressive performance. Spa lost 31-27 at home to unbeaten joint Midlands Three West (South) leaders Old Leamingtonians last Saturday. And the hosts thought they had won when leading
A TOUGH start to the season continued for Bromsgrove as they were crushed 54-17 at Leicester Lions. Dean Ball's side's defeat last Saturday is their third in four games and means they have now faced, and lost to, both joint league leaders in Leicester
ROCK anthems, Gilbert & Sullivan and Indian dance are the eclectic mix of entertainment on offer this week at the Palace Theatre. Saturday sees Vampires Rock, a musical fantasy set in 2003 New York when Steve Steinman, previously seen at the Palace
Redditch VC 3 Reds Ladies Reserves 0 REDDITCH VC came out on top in this derby battle thanks to an Olivia Nicholson brace. Nicholson got her first for VC just before half time giving Reds Ladies stand-in keeper Caz Freeman no chance. Nicholson's angled
Headless Cross Ladies 4 Kidderminster Harriers Ladies 3 A HAT-TRICK from striker Teressa Boddington earned Headless Cross Ladies their third win out of four games. Cross manager Rob Auld fielded a weakened side with both Mandy Ellicott and Alison Wayley
JUNIOR FOOTBALL: THE Villains will be in town for a week teaching soccer to youngsters at the end of October. Kingsley College on Woodrow Drive will be hosting the Aston Villa Soccer School starting on Monday, October 25, until Friday, October 29. The
SINGER-SONGWRITER Judie Tzuke performs at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall on Thursday as part of her autumn UK tour. Her hit single Stay With Me 'Till Dawn was recently voted one of the top 50 British singles of the last 50 years by BBC Radio 2 listeners
IN-FORM Bromsgrove Rovers return to action this Saturday as they attempt to get another cup run on the road. Joe Jackson's side, who have lost just once in the league this season, entertain fellow Southern League Division One West outfit Burnham in the
A MEMORIAL match looks likely to be played between Droitwich Spa RFC Third XV and Bloxwich RFC in honour of a referee. Tony McDonald, aged 51, collapsed and died while officiating Spa's Thirds match at Bloxwich Firsts on Saturday, September 18. The match
MISSED chances cost Fairfield Villa in a 3-1 home defeat to Heather Athletic. The Recreation Ground side hit the crossbar and wasted several first half opportunities in last Saturday's Midland Combination Division One clash. Villa did the early attacking
A PROMISING footballer has realised his dream after signing part-time for Premiership club Aston Villa. David Burtoft, a student at Droitwich Spa High School, has been offered a place to train with Villa's U16s on Tuesdays and Wednesdays while continuing
STUART How showed he has an eye for goal after putting on an exhibition at the Victoria Ground. How scored all four goals in the Reserves convincing 4-0 victory over Worcester City's second string last Saturday. Rovers also used the Midland Combination
LATEST Advertiser/Messenger League results. Bromsgrove Charity Cup Round One - Alvechurch Darts 3 Bromsgrove Gen 1; Fairfield Sunday 5 Blackwell 1; Westbury Celtic 2 Church 5; Man on the Moon 1 Hoolahans 5; Sporting Harborne 8 Euphoria 0; Wychbold 0 AFC
Bromsgrove Town U9s 5 Celtic Reds U9s 1 Town kept up their 100 per cent record with this win. Man of the match Ben Markall scored a hat-trick, while Alex O'Brien and Matthew Lamb also scored. Daniel Williams won the merit award for his defending. Catshill
DEAR EDITOR - I would like to congratulate Mr TS Edwards, of Arkle Close, Droitwich Spa, for his truly wonderful poem. This deserved a prominent place in your paper, not just on the letters page. Please reprint it in a more prominent position so that
DEAR EDITOR - As my councillor in the Norton ward, it surprises me to see Councillor Nick Psirides looking at issues constantly in other wards, such as Victoria Road and The Oakalls. Since knocking on my door at election time, when have I seen him addressing
DEAR EDITOR - I lived in Bromsgrove until recently. It seems that the appalling bus company First are not only a problem in Bromsgrove but in the Wirral too and probably everywhere they are in operation. John Grayson, Hoylake, Wirral.
DEAR EDITOR - May I respond to the recent letter from J Bourne regarding the proposed High Street feature. I entirely agree that we do not need another clock in the High Street. The model, displayed for two weeks in the library, has no clock face. To
DEAR EDITOR - I read the article on the possible installation of traffic signals at Slideslow roundabout with interest. It was surely obvious at the time the Oakalls estate was planned that some 1,000 additional houses would have an impact on this busy
DEAR EDITOR - Through your columns I would like to thank very much those of our community volunteers and members of our Neighbourhood Watch, who turned out on a rather wet morning on September 18 and made a huge difference to our village environment by
DEAR EDITOR - On behalf of my wife and neighbours may I take this opportunity to thank you, Bromsgrove Council, for the glorious mess you have made of the recently introduced refuse collection. In particular I commend you for only collecting household
Birmingham Exiles 3 Redditch 53 REDDITCH consolidated their position at the top of the North Midlands One with an emphatic away victory. The Kingfishers travelled up the M42 looking to continue their good early form but knew they faced a stern test against
Alcester 11 Dunlop 22 ALCESTER slipped to a second successive defeat against a Dunlop side who will be looking to challenge for honours come the end of the season. Alcester started brightly and were in front inside a minute as winger Chris Hall converted
DEAR EDITOR - Your report, New Nurses Spark Row, served to remind us, if we needed it, of the lack of coherent policy of this Labour Government in planning for the labour needs of our country. Despite huge numbers of students in higher education (or because
DEAR EDITOR - I would like to congratulate Mr TS Edwards, of Arkle Close, Droitwich Spa, for his truly wonderful poem. This deserved a prominent place in your paper, not just on the letters page. Please reprint it in a more prominent position so that
DEAR EDITOR - Your recent reader's letter Foxes Are Vermin Not Fluffy Animals sums up the arguments admirably. Foxes are pests and this must be the only country in the world that disagrees! And not for the foxes' welfare. How many so-called fox lovers
DEAR EDITOR - On the hunting debate, Secretary of the Worcestershire Hunt Ian Frank is absolutely correct. What right has this Government to use the Parliament Act to override the will of the House of Lords on their decision regarding the Hunting With
DEAR EDITOR - According to Councillor Rita Taylor, the "vast majority of the community" backed the council's plans. Did we? I certainly remember that a vast majority of those who actually use the market hall raised a huge petition against the council's
DEAR EDITOR - I read the article on the possible installation of traffic signals at Slideslow roundabout with interest. It was surely obvious at the time the Oakalls estate was planned that some 1,000 additional houses would have an impact on this busy
DEAR EDITOR - On behalf of my wife and neighbours may I take this opportunity to thank you, Bromsgrove Council, for the glorious mess you have made of the recently introduced refuse collection. In particular I commend you for only collecting household
DEAR EDITOR - Droitwich Spa civic leaders propose a new town clock tower. What is their record on existing local monuments? Ugly scrap metal replacement memorial benches outside St Richards House; neglected dead trees line the new market square; Gurneys
DEAR EDITOR - I am one of the many Yew Tree Hill residents angered by the sight of the neighbouring water tower covered in mobile phone masts. So I must praise the suggestion by our district councillors of a practical alternative. Their town centre tower
ONE of JB Priestley's funniest comedies - When We Are Married - is being staged at Worcester's Swan Theatre from tomorrow until Saturday, October 16. The cast of 14 is a mixture of nine familiar stalwarts of the local company and five talented new members
Saturday, October 2, 2004 A TOUGH start to the season continued for Bromsgrove as they were crushed 54-17 at Leicester Lions. Dean Ball's side's defeat is their third in four games and means they have now faced, and lost to, both joint league leaders
Wednesday, October 6 Film: Stage Beauty, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. Music: Clare Teal, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Thursday, October 7 Film: Ae Fond Kiss, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. Show: Celebrity Show time, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham
IN the letter headlined "Spin and confusion over hunting issue" (You Say, Thursday, September 23) there were a number of inaccuracies which require rectification. Judy Gilbert voices a legitimate complaint, when she says that monitors are often prevented
Adrian James, from Kidderminster, gave us a very enlightening talk in September highlighted by his wonderful slides of some lesser-known gardens. His background historical information of the seven gardens illustrated gave them new depth. Congratulations
AS a veteran of The Second World War, please allow me to say what pride and pleasure it gives me to receive and wear the Veteran's Badge awarded by the Ministry of Defence. Surmounted by the Royal Crown the badge bears the insignia of the three armed
SOME questions for Labour Party members. In the interests of debate and understanding, I invite Labour Party members to answer the following questions - questions that are being increasingly asked in rural circles. Question 1: Why is it that the Labour
THERE was a good attendance at the meeting in September. It was announced that our president, Dot Waldron, will be our delegate at the Autumn Council Meeting, while members have accepted Salwarpe's invitation to their golden anniversary celebrations.
L SPITERI wrote (You Say, Saturday, October 2) that "I wish the Government's Hunting Bill every success in Parliament, so Britain can eradicate this barbaric sport for good". Well said, Mr Spiteri, and what precisely would you like to ban next? Fishing
THE race is on to get Bromsgrove's ambitious refuse and recyling scheme fully up and running before next March. That's the deadline the district council is working to, to get the scheme fully implemented. If the local authority fails it runs the risk
LAST Saturday's FA Cup defeat against Cambridge City was a hugely disappointing day for the St George's Lane club and we are all aware of the benefits it could have brought us had we won. We've been handed tough cup draws for the last three years and
A REDNAL woman was killed in a horrific car crash on a Greek island, which she used to refer to as 'heaven'. Sixty-year-old Valerie Towler, of Farmdale Grove, died on Sunday, September 26, in Crete after the jeep her husband was driving, rolled over and
THE St John's Landmark Appeal scored a big hit when it swung into action to stage its annual fundraising golf day. The tournament, held at Bromsgrove Golf Centre last Wednesday, was entitled "Fizz Bang!" as it began at 7.30am with a bucks fizz breakfast
WITH the onset of winter, Bromsgrove residents aged 65 and over are being urged to get a free flu jab. The annual Department of Health flu immunisation campaign was launched in Bromsgrove on Monday. Townsfolk who fall into the 'at risk' category are now
CONCERN is growing after fire crews were called to a blaze in Charford - the fourth incident in the space of a week. Firefighters had to tackle a skip fire in Gilbert Road, near the new Co-op store, at 9.40pm last Wednesday. They flooded the skip to extinguish
POLICE believe they know the identity of the elderly man found dead in a blazing car in a field off Alvechurch Highway - even though he has not yet been formally identified. Checks carried out in Bromsgrove last Saturday, exactly a week after fire crews
TOTS donned their glad rags and took part in a fancy dress fun run. Children at Cutnall Green First School ran a couple laps of the school field - depending on their age - for a good cause on September 24. "The children made a magnificent effort with
VOLUNTEERS are being sought to check custody facilities and the welfare of prisoners at police stations in north Worcestershire. The invitation, to people in and around Bromsgrove and Redditch, is part of a West Mercia police initiative to involve the
A DROITWICH Spa woman is devastated that money collected at her husband's funeral will not reach the charity closest to his heart. Furious Nancy Harrison claims it was not made clear donations made during the service at St Nicholas' would not go to the
MOTORISTS may face 20mph speed limits near schools in a bid to reduce the number of children killed or seriously injured on Bromsgrove roads. "Twenty is plenty" is the theme of a road safety initiative being championed by county councillor Trevor Porter
ONE of Droitwich's most honoured citizens celebrated her 90th birthday with her family. Freeman of the town and three times mayor, Anne Sandles, enjoyed a meal and party to mark the occasion last Tuesday. Mrs Sandles was born just outside Droitwich and
NEW furniture in the mayor's parlour has impressed members of the town council. Droitwich Spa town councillors sneaked a look at the new table and chairs in the mayor's office of St Richard's House. "I think it has lifted the room," said the Mayor of
This Aussie girl-meets-Japanese man story is full of endless possibilities but the outcome of this film is something few could predict. The tale is set in Western Australia, where Sandy Edwards (Toni Collette), a geologist and director of a computer software
A JUNIOR netball team has wasted little time in securing its first piece of silverware. South Bromsgrove High School's U14s won the district title at Bromsgrove School after just a few weeks together. Squad members only joined the school at the start
JOHN Barratt has written himself into the history books with a double at Bromsgrove Golf Club. Barratt won his second 'major' of the year last weekend by beating Don Philpotts in the final of the Slideslow Cup to add to his Morris Bowl triumph earlier
AROUND 160 athletes braved a poor weather forecast for the North Worcestershire multi-terrain run. Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletics Club promoted the event in Rubery last Sunday but fortunately the rain stayed away. Tom Kenderdine (Kidderminster and
DROITWICH Spa's Matt Willis endured mixed fortunes at the U18s European Championships. The 17-year-old, who plays for the Redditch Rocket, was part of the 24-man Great Britain squad that finished last behind Germany, Switzerland and Denmark at the Torbay
October 8, 1954 A PLEA that councillors should observe the spirit of a ruling about the number of people in the bungalows on the Abbeydale Estate, rather than the letter, was made to Redditch Urban District Council on Monday by Councillor WFR Cardy, who
October 8, 1904 LEONARD Sealey, a boy living in Beoley Road, was charged with assaulting John Yates, needle pointer, of Beoley Road, on the 1st inst. Complainant's case was that defendant, with others, were "wriggling" on his wooden fence. He asked them
A DREAM has come true for a football-mad Studley lad who will be leading the likes of David Beckham and Wayne Rooney onto the pitch. Eight-year-old George Vale, of Saxon Close, jumped at the chance to join the England team as a mascot after he was selected
STUDLEY High School pupils took part in a gritty drama about road accidents this week when a touring theatre company dropped by. On Monday, Year 8 and 9 pupils were encouraged to take part in a production of Something Really Scary, performed by company
POLICE were called to a car fire near Matchborough Centre shortly after 1am on Friday. The full extent of the damage to the red Ford Fiesta, parked in the car park in Matchborough Way, is yet to be confirmed. A police spokesman said: "Our initial inquiries
A REDDITCH household waste site is to turn green as part of a pilot recycling scheme. The initiative, which is piloted by Severn Trent Waste Services at the Crossgates Road site, will undergo a six-month trial period and will see extra staff on hand to
THE controversial application to place a mobile phone mast outside Mappleborough Green Primary School has been refused. The decision was due to be made two weeks ago but was postponed when the Stratford Council planning committee west meeting was abandoned
A 41-YEAR-old carpenter took his own life, possibly as a consequence of depression over his brother's death 14 years ago, according to a coroner. Steven O'Brien, of Exhall Close, Church Hill, was found by police in the passenger seat of a Ford Escort
AS members we do not normally meet in August, they decided to raise funds for the Associated Country Women of the World Water for All campaign by having a buffet and evening of music and dancing. This raised £500. The September meeting went well, with
THE next meeting will be today, starting at 7.30pm at the Studley Village Hall. The evening's main concert will be given by the Improvers Group under the leadership of their tutor, Christine Smith. If the last of their concerts is anything to go by, members
IN September, Bernard Pumphrey spoke about Heritage Cities. He chose Liverpool, Bath and Wells. Mr Pumphrey said that, on the face of it, Liverpool might seem a strange choice but this was a city with a great history, a beautiful city which was once the
AT the September meeting, Harry Scharf gave a talk entitled Court in the Act - the Crown Court. Mr Scharf has worked for more than 35 years in the law courts as one of the people responsible for recording court proceedings, not on tape, but by shorthand
A WYTHALL parish councillor has expressed fears that dedicating land in a former nature park to youth activities would be a "recipe for disaster". In a report circulated at a recent parish council meeting, Councillor Ken Footman warned against using the
CHILDREN collecting conkers in Alcester could be risking their health after sewage seeped onto land around a popular horse chestnut tree. Heavy storms during Sunday night caused drains in Malt Mill Lane and Gas House Lane to overflow and led to a repeat
TRADERS in Alcester have been told plans to enhance High Street should be put into action next year. At a meeting last week, they were shown details of the safe crossing areas proposed, with the most favoured scheme featuring two - one near the church
FAMILIES in Salford Priors would have to pay £600 to stop speeding through the village if the parish council gives in to county council demands. The parish council has offered to contribute to the cost of a speed reduction programme on the C216 Evesham
WORCESTERSHIRE-based Neil Grinnall Homes has appointed a new land director, enabling the company to push forward with its ambitious growth plans in the Midlands. Russell Ranford will head the land team, which is on target to acquire 10 development sites
CASH, credit cards, jewellery and clothing were stolen from a house in Welford in a spate of daytime burglaries in the Stratford area. The house in Binton Road was one of three broken into on Friday afternoon. Thieves smashed a back window to get in and
A COMMUNITY group seeking lottery funding to build a new village hall has been told its chances are slim. The group, in Broom, wants to demolish the existing wooden village hall and replace it with a brick, multi-purpose building and hoped to get a £195,000
STUDENTS at University College Worcester will be tapping into the latest employment information next week with a first for higher education. Jobpoint, run by JobCentre Plus, will link students from the St John's campus with local job centres through a
A MAJOR farming co-operative is interested in buying a 15 per cent stake in Robert Wiseman Dairies, which employs around 800 people at its flagship Droitwich depot. Wiseman is committed to investing £7m in the production of extended life milk at Stonebridge
A CENTRE for people with learning and physical disabilities has been earmarked for housing under the latest proposals for Redditch Local Plan. Millfields is set to be sold off and will move to a new site at St Stephen's First School. The Windsor Road
AN Alcester artist has mounted an exhibition at the town's library featuring horses in action. Ada Gaden, a keen horsewoman, has been painting seriously for about 12 years and is half way through a course in fine art at NEW College. The theme of her latest
A TOTAL of £2,000 raised through the efforts of all those who took part in the Studley Wheelbarrow Race earlier this years was presented to two good causes yesterday. A representative from Warwickshire Air Ambulance dropped into The Bell pub in Alcester
JOHN Shrimpton Cooke, the well known Bromsgrove printer, shopkeeper, sportsman and long time member of the Baptist church, died aged 68 in the room in his premises in Market Place in which he had been born. He had run a printing works there and his aunt
THE revolting condition of the latrines at Stourbridge Road School occupied the minds of North Bromsgrove School managers when they held their monthly meeting. It was said there was clear evidence they had not been emptied for some time and it was resolved
IN-FORM Bromsgrove Rovers return to action this Saturday as they attempt to get another cup run on the road. Joe Jackson's side, who have lost just once in the league this season, entertain fellow Southern League Division One West outfit Burnham in the
A PROFESSIONAL orchestra is set to play for Barnt Green residents as part of harvest celebrations. The Queen's Park Sinfonia will play at St Andrew's Church, in Sandhills Road, this Sunday. The orchestra, established for young professional musicians,
CHILDREN from two Worcester Schools will officially open a new Co-op store. After the ribbon cutting ceremony, the pupils of Northwick Manor Infant and Junior schools, both on Northwick Road, will be presented with a donation of £150 for each school by
FREE boat trips along the canals are being offered when Droitwich Canals Trust holds an open day on the restored lock flight at Hanbury Wharf. Visitors will be able to learn about the work of the trust and the canals restoration project from 11am until
STUART How showed he has an eye for goal after putting on an exhibition at the Victoria Ground. How scored all four goals in the Reserves convincing 4-0 victory over Worcester City's second string last Saturday. Rovers also used the Midland Combination
ABOUT 750 tonnes of straw worth £40,000 was destroyed in an arson attack in Bordesley on Friday night. Four fire crews and two water carriers were drafted in to deal with the blaze, which began in Weights Lane at about 10.30pm and continued for the next
A distinctive ring was taken from the Alexandra Hospital at about 1.45pm on September 21. The owner took it off to wash her hands in the ladies toilets, opposite the coffee shop. She realised when she got home she had left it on the sink and called the
A 16 YEAR old had two remote control cars stolen from him just after 6pm on Friday. The victim and his friend were walking along the footpath near Kingsley College when approached by two men who asked what they were carrying. They then snatched boxes
IN-FORM Bromsgrove Rovers return to action this Saturday as they attempt to get another cup run on the road. Joe Jackson's side, who have lost just once in the league this season, entertain fellow Southern League Division One West outfit Burnham in the
REDDITCH racer Mike Luck ended his rookie season in Days of Thunder with a tenth place finish in the final round at Rockingham. Qualifying on the sixth row of the grid and as top rookie gave the Winyates Green driver a new-found optimism for the final
ALCESTER Rugby Club enrolled one of the sport's legends for a one-off training session at Kings Coughton. Former Gloucester prop Andy Deacon joined up with the Alcester players on Tuesday night's training session to put them through their paces and the
AN outspoken great-grandfather has vowed to continue serving the community despite his decision to step down as a county councillor. Tory stalwart Tom Wareing will continue representing the Crabbs Cross division until next year. Over the years, Mr Wareing
Redditch United 2 Histon 3 THE Reds threw away a two-goal lead to Southern League Premier outfit Histon and exited the FA Cup at the first attempt. The day had started so well for United after tying up Kidderminster Harriers' Scott Rickards on loan for
A LEADER'S question time is to be introduced to Redditch Council meetings as part of a major revamp to make them more interesting and not just "cures for insomnia". Council Leader David Cartwright wants to scrap all administrative items at the start of
A CONSERVATIVE government would safeguard the future of Worcester's under-threat special needs schools, the party's annual conference in Bournemouth was told. Shadow education secretary Tim Collins promised an end to the closure of special needs schools
THE Millers managed a Saturday break this week and it was just what the doctor ordered for Lee Adams' injury-hit squad. Mark Davis, Dave Unitt, Justin Ballinger and striker Brian Powell are all sidelined but all got the chance for recuperation. But far
AT least 1,000 "vulnerable" patients in Worcester are being forced to wait for flu jabs - putting their lives at risk, claim angry residents. The news comes after the Evening News reported on Monday that the NHS had kick-started its flu immunisation campaign
DOOM-mongers predicting financial ruin for crop farmers appear to have been proved wrong by NFU estimates for this year's harvest. The National Farmer's Union believes that harvest figures for wheat and barley will be higher than the bone-dry harvest
A RENOWNED musician is preparing to journey to a Malvern church to play his heart out at a service marking the return of its beloved organ. City of Birmingham organist Thomas Trotter will be taking to the organ stool at Great Malvern Priory on Saturday
DRINKERS can sample award-winning ales from across the world during an annual festival at a Worcester pub. The Postal Order, in Foregate Street, has lined up 45 beers for its Oktoberfest, which runs until Sunday, October 17. All will be £1.49 per pint
A NEW bacteria-busting campaign has been launched at Worcestershire's hospitals - to hammer home a good hand hygiene message to staff and patients. With public concern on the rise about hospital-acquired infections such as the so-called "superbug" MRSA
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 FOOTBALL FA Trophy Preliminary Round - Bromsgrove Rovers v Burnham (1pm). Midland Combination (2.45pm unless stated) Premier Division - Barnt Green Spartak v Leamington. Division One - Fairfield Villa v Stockingford AA (12pm). Challenge
THINGS could not be much better for Ashley Giles at the moment. The England and Warwickshire left-arm spinner, a Droitwich Spa resident, has enjoyed a successful summer for his country and is fast becoming one of the world's most feared bowlers. He was
Thursday, October 7 Mouthpiece Theatre: The Mysterious Mr Love, Studley Village Hall. Tickets from 450188. Judie Tzuke, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. Tickets from 01905 611427. Compagnia d'Opera Italiano di Milano: Puccini's Madame Butterfly, Festival Theatre
REDDITCH Golf Club's Chris Bromley was crowned Worcestershire Matchplay Champion last Sunday (September 26). The 22 year old took defending champion Paul Scarrett to a fifth extra hole in the final and won the title with a birdie at Blackwell Golf Club
Harborne Ladies 0 Redditch Ladies 3 Redditch Ladies got their winning campaign under way with an impressive away victory against Harborne. Last week's loss against Stourport was quickly pushed aside as they put the home team under pressure from the whistle
Yardley 1 Redditch 4 REDDITCH men's hockey team's bid for the title is still on course after a 4-0 drubbing of an ageing Yardley outfit. The men began their attempt on the title last week but were held to a 4-4 stalemate at home to Walsall. However, there
WORCESTER City chairman Dave Boddy today issued a rallying call to supporters to get behind manager John Barton and his players amid a turbulent run of results for the St George's Lane club. In a passionate plea, Boddy has urged the City faithful to put
WALES goalkeeper Paul Jones, the former Kidderminster Harriers, has vowed to put his axing from the Wolves team to one side as he prepares for Saturday's World Cup showdown with England. The 38-year-old found himself reduced to the role of substitute
HEREFORD United completed a wretched few days by crashing to their first away defeat in the Nationwide Conference for almost 11 months. After dropping two home points against Burton on Saturday, the title-chasing Bulls produced a lifeless showing at Victoria
BOY wonder Wayne Rooney has helped Westfields secure a major coup for their sell-out sportsmen's dinner tomorrow night. The 18-year-old England sensation has sent a Manchester United shirt signed by himself for the Hereford club to auction at their event
WORCESTERSHIRE schools will compete in the Army-sponsored West Midlands Under 16s Rugby Sevens finals at Kings Norton's Hopwood ground tomorrow (1pm). South Bromsgrove High and Christopher Whitehead High have qualified along with Gwernyfed from the Herefordshire
WORCESTER City chairman Dave Boddy today issued a rallying call to supporters to get behind manager John Barton and his players amid a turbulent run of results for the St George's Lane club. In a passionate plea, Boddy has urged the City faithful to put
BROMSGROVE RFC First XV go into this Saturday's home match with old rivals Luctonians looking for a much-needed win. The team has lost three of their first four Midlands One fixtures and will be aiming to bounce back at Finstall Park. Captain Dave Clark
Bromsgrove U15s 22 Dudley Kingswinford U15s 5 Bromsgrove started with far more purpose than the last two matches and were unfortunate to go behind to an unconverted try. A Fitzer try and a Talbot conversion and penalty gave the hosts a 10-5 half time
Redditch United Ladies 1 Southam Ladies 2 Redditch set out to avenge the last meeting with Southam a fortnight ago but found themselves two goals behind after the break. The fierce contest ended goalless at the interval but Southam took the advantage
TORY Parliamentary spokesperson Karen Lumley travelled to Africa recently to help train politicians. Mrs Lumley joined forces with German colleagues to train Mozambique's opposition party, Renamo, in preparation for the country's elections on December
DROITWICH Spa RFC First XV go in search of their first win of the season this Saturday. The Glyn Mithell Memorial Ground side face a local derby trip to Pershore in Midlands Three West (South). Meanwhile, Bromsgrove RFC First XV go into this Saturday's
A NEW-look Barnt Green Spartak ran riot at Continental Stars to take a 5-0 victory last Saturday. GJ Singh's side saw several changes to the team that started the Midland Combination Premier Division season. Top scorer Naveed Arshad has rejoined former
ANDY Keenahan scored five goals as Droitwich Spa cruised into the Worcester Junior Cup second round with a 7-0 victory over Goodrest. Spa's emphatic win last Saturday, which saw Keenahan take his goal tally to 13 for the season, also featured goals for
EMMA Smith scored twice as Droitwich Spa Ladies got their first Kidderminster County Womens League points of the season with a 3-1 win at Headless Cross. Smith levelled after Spa fell behind before Tanya Hill made it 2-1 after the break. Smith made the
BROMSGROVE RFC First XV go into this Saturday's home match with old rivals Luctonians looking for a much-needed win. The team has lost three of their first four Midlands One fixtures and will be aiming to bounce back at Finstall Park. Captain Dave Clark
DEAR EDITOR - Your report, New Nurses Spark Row, served to remind us, if we needed it, of the lack of coherent policy of this Labour Government in planning for the labour needs of our country. Despite huge numbers of students in higher education (or because
DEAR EDITOR - Your recent reader's letter Foxes Are Vermin Not Fluffy Animals sums up the arguments admirably. Foxes are pests and this must be the only country in the world that disagrees! And not for the foxes' welfare. How many so-called fox lovers
DEAR EDITOR - On the hunting debate, Secretary of the Worcestershire Hunt Ian Frank is absolutely correct. What right has this Government to use the Parliament Act to override the will of the House of Lords on their decision regarding the Hunting With
DEAR EDITOR - According to Councillor Rita Taylor, the "vast majority of the community" backed the council's plans. Did we? I certainly remember that a vast majority of those who actually use the market hall raised a huge petition against the council's
A TOUGH start to the season continued for Bromsgrove as they were crushed 54-17 at Leicester Lions. Dean Ball's side's defeat last Saturday is their third in four games and means they have now faced, and lost to, both joint league leaders in Leicester
DEAR EDITOR - Droitwich Spa civic leaders propose a new town clock tower. What is their record on existing local monuments? Ugly scrap metal replacement memorial benches outside St Richards House; neglected dead trees line the new market square; Gurneys
DEAR EDITOR - I am one of the many Yew Tree Hill residents angered by the sight of the neighbouring water tower covered in mobile phone masts. So I must praise the suggestion by our district councillors of a practical alternative. Their town centre tower
Kings Norton 24 Cleobury Mortimer 0 KINGS Norton scored two tries in each half without reply to stay undefeated in the North Midlands One. The Ash Lane team absorbed 15 minutes of pressure before their backs eventually opened the scoring with winger John
DEAR EDITOR - As my councillor in the Norton ward, it surprises me to see Councillor Nick Psirides looking at issues constantly in other wards, such as Victoria Road and The Oakalls. Since knocking on my door at election time, when have I seen him addressing
DEAR EDITOR - I lived in Bromsgrove until recently. It seems that the appalling bus company First are not only a problem in Bromsgrove but in the Wirral too and probably everywhere they are in operation. John Grayson, Hoylake, Wirral.
DEAR EDITOR - May I respond to the recent letter from J Bourne regarding the proposed High Street feature. I entirely agree that we do not need another clock in the High Street. The model, displayed for two weeks in the library, has no clock face. To
DEAR EDITOR - Through your columns I would like to thank very much those of our community volunteers and members of our Neighbourhood Watch, who turned out on a rather wet morning on September 18 and made a huge difference to our village environment by
VISITORS to a pantomime performed by a new Bromsgrove theatre group will not be hacked off at the reality of the performance, writes Chris Flavell. The All and Sundry theatre group has utilised the skills of a swordsman to teach the cast how to sword
THEATREGOERS will have the chance to see an hilarious West End hit based on the life of a famous writer and his equally famous drinking. The Norbury Theatre, in Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, is set to show Jeffery Bernard Is Unwell by Keith Waterhouse.
KELVIN Langmead should be the next to extend his stay at Kidderminster Harriers today. The 19-year-old Preston forward, who has caught the eye despite not scoring from five starts and one sub appearance, is set to add another month onto his loan. Jan
WALES goalkeeper Paul Jones, the former Kidderminster Harriers, has vowed to put his axing from the Wolves team to one side as he prepares for Saturday's World Cup showdown with England. The 38-year-old found himself reduced to the role of substitute
MEMBERS at the September meeting in the Village Hall were treated to a spectacular display of floral arrangements presented by Ann Price and Pat Bailey, an elegant duo each wearing a beautiful orchid corsage - a special touch which was continued throughout
I WOULD like to address the selfish brainless lazy individual who frequently lets his or her dog foul the pavement right outside the gates at Oldbury Park School, and along the perimeter fence where all the children walk. Perhaps you would like to stand
THE Society's Annual Show was held on September 4 in the village hall. There were slightly fewer entries in some classes than last year but the exhibits that were displayed were of the same high quality - a tribute to the expertise and enthusiasm of the
THIS month, our members enjoyed an evening with the well-known plants woman Elaine Horton, who owns Tin Penny Farm on the Gloucestershire border. Elaine brings humour, warmth, knowledge and laughter to a meeting and we were amazed that she could grow
SO George Cowley thinks that by making people pay more income tax, "the Government could afford to give us better schools and teachers". There is a much easier way to get "better schools" George. All we have to do is to all move house 30 miles down the
THE Rotary Club of Droitwich Spa held its meeting in September at St Andrew's House Hotel. President John Skilton was in the chair. The Rotarians were accompanied by their ladies. The Club had raised £3,000 from the Golf Tournament which had been organised
Redditch United 2 Histon 3 THE Reds threw away a two-goal lead to Southern League Premier outfit Histon and exited the FA Cup at the first attempt. The day had started so well for United after tying up Kidderminster Harriers' Scott Rickards on loan for
OUR summer meetings outdoors have finished and we are into our winter programme, which started off with Hazel Kaye from Leicestershire where she runs a nursery and holds an important collection of Tradascantias. Her relaxed, informative and warm manner
STAFF and customers were threatened with guns during a raid at Blackwell Post Office on Friday - the third armed robbery in Bromsgrove in 11 days. Four men wearing balaclavas carried out the attack at the Greenhill post office at around 12.30pm. They
YOUNG builders will be picking up tips from the experts when Avoncroft Museum plays host to a week of events. More than 700 pupils from schools and colleges all over Worcestershire and Herefordshire will be having a try at laying bricks, putting in plumbing
LOVERS of choral music will relish Bromsgrove's very own version of the last night of the proms on Saturday, October 23. The Primrose Hospice choir will perform a selection of rousing songs, ending with Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory. They will
RESIDENTS living in the 57 flats that make up Housman Park in Bromsgrove will soon be able to enjoy all the amenities of a new community centre. Yesterday (Tuesday) Richard Macey, chairman of the trustees, laid the foundation stone for the new centre,
BROMSGROVE Library is bringing poetry to the people. Townsfolk will have the chance to read poetry as they shop as part of national poetry week. The Stratford Way library has produced poems from various poets which will be displayed in High Street shop
A GROUP of young bookworms are celebrating after completing a summer reading challenge. Children from Rednal took up the Reading Rollercoaster at Cofton Hackett Library, while on their summer holidays. Around 25 children, between the ages of four and
YOUNGSTERS from a town school helped reopen a Charford store following a £130,000 revamp. The Alldays store, in Gilbert Road, has been converted to a Co-op, creating three new jobs. Pupils from Charford First School were invited to cut the ribbon after
A GROUP of artistic children helped a Bromsgrove school celebrate its 50th anniversary. Pupils at Lickey Hills Primary, in Old Birmingham Road, used small pieces of tile to make a mural of the school logo. The idea originally came from seven-year-old
A TOWN man, who sparked off a security alert at Coventry Airport after an illegal gun and ammunition were found in his car, has "an unusual fascination" with firearms. Now, at the request of his barrister, Edward Garofano is to be examined by a psychologist
The book starts with the murder of an old couple in Wisconsin. But at the same time in Minneapolis, detectives are trying to stop a serial killer. Neither knows that the murders are connected. The Minneapolis murders are following the pattern of a nasty
UNSUNG heroes who make sure a Bromsgrove hospital runs like clockwork have been brought out into the spotlight in an annual report from health chiefs. The hard working porters are rarely seen as they go about their vital business at the Princess of Wales
A NATURALLY talented golfer has his sights set on the big time after going from strength in the sport. At just 15-years-old, James Newman has a whole host of titles to his name as well as many county appearances for both the U16s and U18s. And now he
A successful town firm has been told to pay a former assembler £1,500, despite being justified in sacking him for misconduct over a "missing" computer processor worth £400. Digital Network Limited, of Sherwood Road, Bromsgrove, sacked computer assembler
A SPA fitness fanatic is tackling three marathons across the globe to raise cash for a cause close to her heart. Anne Hardisty, of Chamberlain Court, will run the Dublin, London and New York marathons in aid of St Richard's Hospice. The challenge is her
RESIDENTS are being warned to be on their guard after a representative from an energy supply company tried to use trick tactics to get a sale. The warning comes from a Rubery resident who says he nearly fell victim to the aggressive tactics used by a
DROITWICH Spa police officers will not be deployed to Worcester, West Mercia's Chief Constable Paul West assures. He said Spartans need not worry, as there are no plans to transfer police officers to Worcester city from other parts of the force area.
LAST week's front page report about trouble in Bromsgrove's Sidemoor district is just the tip of the iceberg, says one concerned resident. But the Advertiser/Messenger article, about the troubles in Sydney Road and on the nearby grounds of Sidemoor First
A RARE clock made by an 18th century Bromsgrove clockmaker is being offered for sale to people in the town. The Longcase - also known as a grandfather - clock was picked up by antiquarian horologist Francis Bennett at his Time In Hand shop in Shipston-on-Stour
DROITWICH Spa could be the place to be for VE Day celebrations for years to come. Town councillor Graham Gopsill said if the post-war party planned for next May goes off with bang, Droitwich could become one of the country's premier sites for the celebrations
OPERA lovers are urged to spread their wings to the Chateau Impney next week. The Worcester Road venue is hosting a performance of Puccini's Madame Butterfly in aid of St Richard's Hospice on October 14 from 6.45pm. It will also mark the 100th anniversary
JET set students at a Droitwich school will say 'Auf Wiedersehen, Pet' today as they head off to Germany. Twenty-two pupils and two members of staff from Droitwich Spa High School will enjoy a week at their partner school in twin town Bad Ems. During
CHOCOHOLICS tucked into the tasty prizes at a fundraising fete. Families swarmed around the chocolate tombola stall at the St Peter's Church fair on September 25. "It sold out - no surprise really" said one of the organisers, Wendy Carter. Other popular
THIS doesn't do fans of the beautiful game any favours but that said, it's probably one of the best insights into hooliganism for a long time. The film shows no players, referees or managers, there's no hint of a pitch or ball but there's more than enough
DON'T be fooled by the words "must-see hilarious romantic comedy" on the DVD case. It is not. At all. Daniel Rafferty (Pierce Brosnan) and Audrey Woods (Julianne Moore) are rival divorce lawyers whose constant battle of wits spills into their private
LAST week saw the latest production from the Latham School of Dance at the Palace Theatre. Once again we were treated to a wonderful display of colourful song and dance from members of the school, whose ages range from three to 20. It was a pleasure to
DEBUT director DJ Caruso has gathered together an ensemble cast to be proud of for his off-the-wall chiller thriller. Sadly, the film itself does not quite manage to live up to its actors and will leave you feeling like it just ran out of steam - and
GOLFER Helen Griffin finished third at the Health Perception Ladies Amateur Championship. The Droitwich Golf and Country Club player tied for third with Moira Jones, of Flintshire, but won courtesy of a better back nine holes at Wentworth's West Course
EIGHT Bromsgrove School pupils have been selected to represent their county. Matthew Newman, Matthew Edgar, Liam Mullan, Karl Lockley, George Crook, Edward Gardiner and Michael Penn have been named in the Worcestershire U16s rugby squad. Kim Robinson
NATHAN Hollis recorded the highest break in the latest round of Droitwich and District Snooker League matches. Hollis complied a 39 in Millfield B's 3-2 Division One victory over Millfields A on Tuesday, September 28. Bromsgrove Labour Club's Erik Small
October 5, 1979 TIGHT new controls have been slapped on Redditch's metal detector users in a bid to stop cowboy treasure hunters digging up archaeological sites. Detector users wanting to explore council sites will now have to have permission from County
THE practice manager of Woodrow Medical Centre has hit out at security in the area after the centre was burgled for the second time in 12 months. Computers storing some patient information were stolen during the latest burglary, which happened between
A REDDITCH software development company has made its way into the top 100 fastest-growing technology companies. Trakware, based at the Business Centre, Edwards Street, ranked 56th in The Sunday Times' publication on October 3. Director and co-owner Steve
STEPS are being taken to decriminalise parking offences in Redditch, which would allow the council to employ its own traffic wardens to target specific problem areas. Parking currently comes under the responsibility of the police and its traffic wardens
A DISABLED Winyates woman has hit out at 'moaning' shoppers who complained about the increase of disabled parking spaces in the Kingfisher Centre. Margaret Southam said the complaints had 'made her blood boil'. More parking facilities for disabled people
ANYONE afraid of things that go bump in the night would do well to avoid Tardebigge tunnel this Halloween as they may find themselves surrounded by all manner of ghosts and ghouls. James Nicholas CES Ltd, which operates the passenger vessel Dream Catcher
BROMSGROVE MP Julie Kirkbride has pledged her full support for residents fighting plans for a rendering plant in Hopwood. Ms Kirkbride met HARM (Hopwood Against Rendering Movement) chairman Jeremy Roberts on Friday to discuss proposals to build the plant
THE Post Office says the branches it proposes to close in Batchley and Abbeydale are poorly used and have suffered under-investment. Last week, it was announced the two branches had been added to a list of other offices in North Worcestershire which it
CONSERVATIVE parliamentary spokesman Karen Lumley is concerned Redditch will become a ghost town with regard to post offices, with only one remaining in the town centre. She said two offices had already disappeared and expressed concern another two were
A 12-year-old cycling sensation has notched up so many trophies and medals she has been awarded the prestigious title of National and Midlands Best All Rounder over the season. Walkwood Middle School pupil Lauren Carbutt, of Crabbs Cross, only took the
PLANS have been drawn up to install a long mound of earth along a stretch of road in Bordesley to stop travellers moving on to a piece of land owned by Redditch Council. Residents and ward councillors will be consulted over the proposal for a bund, which
THE sky is clearly not the limit for Redditch Air Cadets, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. The 216 Squadron Air Training Corps was formed in September 1984 at Holyoakes Field First School in Batchley before moving to its present HQ
A PLAQUE has been unveiled on an old lych gate which has been standing in the heart of Headless Cross for more than a century. The new plaque describes the history of the unique gate in Rectory Road, which was built in 1861. Headless Cross Neighbourhood
VOLUNTEERS are needed to help boost charity coffers at a Christmas card shop to be held in Redditch library. The national Cards for Good Causes (CFGC) scheme will hold its shop in the library from October 22-December 18 but more people are needed to give
THE September meeting was held at the home of Mrs Margaret John. Members enjoyed listening to a talk by Mrs Helen McCarthy on what her work involves in being a county councillor for Warwickshire. Madge Rose won the raffle. At the October meeting Janice
PUPILS at a Redditch high school have undergone specialist training as part of a pioneering project to tackle all issues surrounding school life - from bullying to homework worries. St Augustine's High School is taking part in a groundbreaking initiative
THE September meeting was opened by president Brenda Dainty, who told members the annual bingo evening would be held at Shawhurst Community Centre on October 14. Names were taken for the group meeting to be hosted by Hollywood WI and for the autumn council
AT the September 28 meeting, Diane Dodge, accompanied by her golden retriever Jago, gave a talk about the charity Dogs for the Disabled. Diane began with a brief history of how the charity came about and how, with the help of a lottery grant in 1990,
THE work on a major development at Trinity High School in Easemore Road was inspected by town MP Jacqui Smith on Friday. The school is currently undergoing a £2.1 million upgrade to build a new technology suite, due for completion by next September. But
A NATURALLY talented golfer has his sights set on the big time after going from strength in the sport. At just 15-years-old, James Newman has a whole host of titles to his name as well as many county appearances for both the U16s and U18s. And now he
DYSLEXIA is all too often misunderstood - but staff and students at NEW College set out to challenge some of the misconceptions during Dyslexia Awareness Week. Last week, the Peakman Street college used the event to improve both student and staff awareness
Saturday, October 2, 2004 VICTORY was snatched from the hands of Droitwich Spa RFC First XV after an impressive performance. Spa lost 31-27 at home to unbeaten joint Midlands Three West (South) leaders Old Leamingtonians. And the hosts thought they had
IT may be unlucky for some - but the number 13 gave Serena Stratford the lucky break she needed. Serena, of Kingley Avenue, Alcester, has just passed her driving test - at the 13th attempt. She started driving on her 17th birthday but just couldn't convince
MORE than 400 would-be entrepreneurs visited Alcester's first Enterprise Week held at the Greig Centre recently. The five-day event was organised by the Alcester Business Network and was themed to cover community enterprise, rural enterprise and farm
EMPLOYEES from companies all over the West Midlands swapped their briefcases for helmets during a charity race day at Silverstone. Around 200 people, from firms including accountants Price Waterhouse Cooper and watr firm Severn Trent, attended the race
ALCESTER Mayor Chris Gough had a nasty shock on his way to the airport when he learned the travel company which had sold him his airline tickets, Golden Sun, had gone bankrupt. Mr Gough and his wife, Anne, were on a coach heading for Gatwick and their
FOOD giant Kellogg's was today ordered to change the advertising for its top-selling Frosties breakfast cereal after the product was branded "high in sugar". The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) launched an investigation after a complaint about a
DAVID Henstone, former president of Alcester Rotary Club and much loved member of the community, lost his fight against cancer last month. He was 59. Mr Henstone was an active member of Alcester Baptist Church and Alcester Lions Club and throughout his
STAFF and students at Alcester Grammar School staged a show of celebration recently to launch the school's specialist status in performing arts. Parents, friends and governors were invited to the one-off performance, which highlighted the musical and
THE success of a pioneering project for young mums and mums-to-be in Redditch has led to it being used as blueprint for similar schemes across the country. So far, the NEW Women Project - which runs from the All Women's House in Smallwood - has had contact
SHOPPERS in Redditch may have bumped into a cuddly "fun"-draising bear while visiting Debenhams last Wednesday. The store in the Kingfisher Centre provided one of the stops for Toby the Bear, who was collecting money for the Primrose Hospice before travelling
ACORNS Children's Hospice is to hold an information evening at its new Hollywood offices for daring people who want a challenge filled with eastern promise. The hospice is looking for adventurous people to trek the Great Wall of China and raise vitally
WORK began on repairing the 160-year-old canal tunnel at Tardebigge which had closed last year when it became unsafe. The delay had been caused because of difficulties in hiring a suitable contractor to carry out the specialised work. STORE wars had broken
