Evesham U-14 41pts, Alcester 0 SUPERIOR forward play led by Josh Greatrix dominated from the first whistle and a converted try from Matt Phillips after only two minutes set the tone for the morning. Callum Lance, Russell Boyles, player of the match Anthony
BREDON Buzzards Under-13s travelled to Shirley for a match against Camp Hill. The hosts possessed a few big lads who looked to be a handful and so it proved when they opened the scoring with a converted try. Bredon responded well and came back into the
OLD and new collide in spectacular fashion in the new production of The Snow Queen at the Alexandra Theatre. Shirley Anne Field (Saturday Night Sunday Morning and My Beautiful Laundrette) stars as the eponymous Snow Queen, who spirits away character main
TICKETS are still available for Norbury Theatre's pantomime spectacular Aladdin, which starts this week. The amateur production features a local cast of 20 playing all of your favourite characters, including Wishee-Washee, Widow Twankee and the Genie
A SPECIALIST support programme which has already helped 20 ex-MG Rover workers start their own businesses has received a cash boost and is now on a major recruitment drive across Redditch and Bromsgrove. Delivered by start-up initiative Mustard.uk.com
Scunthorpe 44 Bromsgrove 3 Midlands Division One NEW-year same old story for beleaguered Bromsgrove as they suffered a six-try defeat in the Midlands Division One on Saturday. A powerful Scunthorpe side quickly ended any hopes that 2006 would allow the
A NEW school is bringing the spirit of the dance to Bromsgrove when its starts classes on Thursday, January 12. Ceroc's weekly classes open at the Spadesbourne Suite next to the Council House, on Burcot Lane, at 8pm. Fusing salsa and swing the classes
The January meeting opened with the president wishing everyone a happy New Year. She then introduced the speaker, Mr M Mylechreest, who gave an entertaining and challenging talk entitled gardens in trust. We saw slides of the expected large National Trust
SIR - Make Poverty History is a slogan which one is beginning to see in many different forums. The truth behind the absolute necessity to eradicate poverty in all its forms is essential for us all. Poverty nationally and internationally provides a ripe
WE start the year with a cine film show from our old friends Mike and Audrey Flavell, this year's theme is from Stephenson to Riddles to great railway names of the past. Mike and Audrey have been entertaining us for many years with their excellent films
OUR December meeting was a double celebration of Christmas and our 40th birthday. President Jenny Kerridge read from the minutes of the first meeting, and a photograph of founder members Nancy Burns, Margaret Elliott, Mavis Perks, Helen Prew and Nancy
SIR - Your front page "We're Coming Back with Guns" read like the lines of a spaghetti Western script. It had me on the edge of my seat! But it barely reads like the methodical reality of how hunt monitors operate out in the winter countryside. The monitors
ALCESTER & Ragley Cricket Club are holding net sessions each Tuesday at Alcester Grammar School. The winter nets run from 8-10pm each week and for more information contact club captain Ben Lee on 07866 746027.
IT'S time to make a tree-mendous effort and recycle your Christmas tree. Townsfolk are being urged to spare a thought for the world's natural resources by taking their trees to one of the many local recycling sites. The trees will be collected from the
HUNDREDS of protesters took to the streets last Saturday to show their strength of feeling about the possible downgrading of the Alexandra hospital, which serves the people of Bromsgrove. About 230 residents took part in the march in Redditch, which started
STOKE Prior man Malcolm Pear's battle against multiple sclerosis will take him to Holland this week, for pioneering stem cell treatment. As reported in the Advertiser/Messenger in October, Malcolm, who has been battling against the debilitating illness
WORK could soon start to renew the footbridge over the Spadesbourne Brook in Market Street. Bromsgrove District Council's executive cabinet was last night (Tuesday) set to discuss, in private, tenders to replace the decaying bridge near the public toilets
CELEBRATIONS were in order at a Bromsgrove care home when one of its residents reached the grand old age of 102. Gladys Crook, who is the oldest resident at the Wayside care home in New Road, reached the milestone yesterday (Tuesday) and celebrated with
PATIENTS in Bromsgrove and throughout Worcestershire now have the right to a choice over where and when they get hospital treatment. Since January 1 all eligible patients are being offered at least four hospitals or clinics when they need to see a specialist
A BLACKOUT caused chaos across Bromsgrove on the busiest shopping day of the week. The town centre and surrounding areas were plunged into darkness last Saturday afternoon after a power failure forced many High Street stores to close. The power cut also
HIGH Street traders in Droitwich Spa have reported a prosperous Christmas period for 2005, believing the rise in customers could be a sign of things to come. Some store workers and shop owners from the High Street, which is home to many of Droitwich's
Droitwich sports chiefs have come up with an novel way to help townsfolk win the battle of the bulge - pole-dancing classes! The exercises normally associated with the more racier gentlemen's clubs have been added to the curriculum at Droitwich Spa Sports
Bulldozers moved on to the Spa's Lido Park site this week, sparking fears that the town's unique open-air bathing pool was under imminent danger of demolition. But Wychavon Council chiefs have moved to reassure residents that there are no plans to bulldoze
A TOP housing firm has been announced as the main sponsor of Droitwich Spa Football Rugby Club in a deal worth £100,000. Persimmon Homes South Midlands, based in Studley, will be the main sponsors of the Spa club during the five-year deal. The funding
GOALSCORING exploits will have to take a back seat for Henry Woods after the youngster secured a place at Worcestershire's Cricket Academy. The 11-year-old pupil at Simon-de-Montfort Middle School who has scored more than 50 goals for Evesham United's
AT THE County Table Tennis Championships held at Worcester, Luke Moffat from Evesham High School was crowned junior champion when he beat Littleton clubmate Tristan Gretton 12-10, 11-7, 11-5 in the final. Fellow Littleton player and ten-year-old Blackminster
LAST year's winner Kicking King may be missing, but the 2006 Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup promises to be as open as it has ever been with a record 64 entries revealed on Monday beating the previous highest total of 49 set in 2003. There are many established
Evesham 15pts, Redditch 10 EVESHAM maintained their position at the top of the table despite an unconvincing display against their Worcester-shire rivals. The start of the match was played in driving rain and sensible play was the order of the day. The
FIFTEEN minutes from time and Andy Robbins was seemingly set to claim his second win as Pershore Town manager. However, three goals from Alveston left the King George's outfit reflecting on a 4-2 defeat last Saturday and Robbins with plenty to do if he
BOB Shaw has recently stepped down from the governing body at Prince Henry's High School after many years, several as chairman and is now devoting much of his energy to developing Evesham Cricket Club, with whom Prince Henry's has a formal agreement.
THE Worcestershire Schools Badminton Association is holding its Under-17s Champio-nships on Sunday, January 29 at Droitwich High School. The event will include girls and boys singles and doubles and coach Lorraine Cole would like to see as many young
BOURTON boast two teams currently leading the way in the Evesham Badminton League. New players are urged to join what is a friendly and enjoyable league with varying standards throughout the men's ladies and mixed leagues. More information can be obtained
Evesham and District Inter-Club League Results - Kingpin Cup first round: Thushes bt Littleton FC; Guvners bt Angels; Donegalers bt Lime St Blues; Dukes bt Hit & Miss; Astraglaze Arrows bt Avengers; Hampton bt Lenches Layabouts; Sedgeberrow v Bees
Stratford & District Men's Winter Tennis League Latest positions - Division One: 1 Stratford B P6, Pts 14; 2 Stratford C 7, 14; 3 Inkberrow 4, 12; 4 Beckford 5, 11; Kenilworth 6, 11; Evesham 7, 11; Campden 7, 11; Littleton 6, 8. Division Two: 1 Wythall
Evesham and District League Division One P W L F A Pts Cider Mill B 8 5 3 45 27 55 Hospital Club 7 6 1 42 21 54 Victors 7 5 2 37 26 47 Fairfield 7 5 2 33 30 43 Lions 7 4 3 34 27 42 Round of Gras 6 4 2 32 22 40 New Inn Boys 6 1 5 22 32 24 Sun Inn 7 1 6
Birdseye Sports Evesham Ladies League Results - Division One: Evesham WMC 5, Hospital B 5; Horse & Hounds 6, Long Lartin B 4; New Inn 6, Golden Cross 4; Littleton BC 4, Coach &Horses 6. Division Two: Avon SC 6, Beckford SC 4; Masons Arms 5, Badsey
PLANS to hold a scaled-down AiR Festival in Redditch this summer have been scrapped completely after last year's event was branded a "financial disaster". Councillors made the shock decision to call off a second festival at an extraordinary meeting on
ITV1, the UK's biggest commercial terrestrial television channel, will further significantly increase its commitment to the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship by broadcasting live coverage from all ten of this season's championship rounds on
Evesham Utd U-12 1, Sutton Coldfield 1 HONOURS were even when Eve-sham took on the Midland Junior Premiership leaders. United started the stronger but went a goal behind against the run of play following a period of sustained pressure on the visitors
PLENTY of local interest remains in a variety of Worcestershire FA cup competitions at both senior and junior level going into the New Year. Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League pair Red Horse and Ambassador face fourth round action in the
FAIRFIELD Sports continued their good form to move six points clear at the top of division four of the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League. Goals from Stanley (3), Kay and Hawkins accounted for Blue Maze on a day when Bengeworth Sports
FORGE Mill Needle Museum is being earmarked for closure in a desperate bid to save money. The Advertiser has learned Redditch Council is considering a number of cost-cutting options, including the closure of the Bordesley-based centre. The museum, dedicated
HUNDREDS of protesters took to the streets of Redditch town centre on Saturday to show their strength of feeling about the possible downgrading of the Alexandra Hospital. About 230 residents took part in a protest march, which kicked off at the town hall
POLICE are hunting two men in connection with the brutal assaults of a teenage boy and pensioner on the same day. The first attack took place last Wednesday as a 16-year-old boy walked with his friend down Battens Drive near the Brooklyn Ford garage.
COUNTY council chiefs met a Government minister yesterday to plead for fairer funding for Worcestershire. County chief executive Rob Sykes and councillors George Lord and Adrian Hardman met MP Jim Fitzpatrick from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
REDDITCH patients now have the power to decide where and when they want their hospital treatment. From January 1, eligible patients will be offered the choice of at least four hospitals or clinics when they need to see a specialist. There is a range of
WHILE welcoming any addtional real terms funding which comes into our county's schools, I must point out to parents that while a 6.7 per cent increase looks good on paper, in reality, how good it is depends on the original amount of funding it was applied
A CLIVE Road resident claims he and his neighbours were misled by Redditch Council over a new development near their homes. Graham Stokes, 67, said the luxury apartments being built in Clive Road were significantly different to those on a picture originally
THE December meeting saw members of the club creating their Christmas decorations. These varied from door wreaths to table decorations or wall hangings. There was a bumper raffle and a supper. This was in the form of a buffet, which all members had contributed
A MATCHBOROUGH ward councillor has cleared up confusion over resurfacing of a path in the area. Councillor Juliet Brunner has this week clarified the areas of Breaches Lane that were improved after several residents got in touch saying they were unsure
PUPILS at Trinity High School have been working with local writer Barrie Wade to promote reading and writing skills and to raise money for charity. Mr Wade is working with every English group, inspiring students to write poetry. In return, students and
AN elderly Headless Cross couple have criticised the company in charge of telephone services at the Alexandra Hospital after struggling to contact each other for a week. Alex Kelly, of Evesham Road, contacted the Advertiser after he had spent a week trying
A FECKENHAM farmer is doing his bit for the environment by growing fuel for woodchip burners. Lionel Hill, of Dunstall Court, is supplying the fuel from 50 acres of willow coppice to DEFRA for the government department's environmentally friendly woodchip
THE general appearance of Church Hill Centre should be the main issue to be tackled over the next month. That was the decision at the first Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meeting last Wednesday. The meetings form part of a Government-led initiative
HEATH Ledger turns in the best performance of his career in this poignant tale of forbidden and secretive love between two cowboys over a span of 20 years. It wouldn't surprise me if the Aussie heartthrob, most famous for more lightweight roles in 10
TOWNSFOLK who appreciate a decent pint will be in for a treat when the Redditch and Bromsgrove branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) host the Redditch Winter Ales Festival. The event will take place at CentrePoint, Ipsley Street, this Friday from
REDDITCH'S Kingfisher Centre had a "phenomenal Christmas trading period", according to its director. Ian McLelland said Redditch shoppers were out in force during the week before Christmas and footfall at the centre was up by 14.7 per cent on the same
I'D better get the confessions out of the way first. Rap has never been my first choice in music. Come to that it would be struggling to make it into the top 10! My knowledge of Eminem could be summed up, in rapping terminology as **** all. So listening
A CHARITY supporting vulnerable adults in Redditch and Bromsgrove is holding two events to try to recruit new volunteers. Members of Bromsgrove & Redditch Advocacy Group will be getting out and about tomorrow and at Redditch Library on January 26
REDDITCH Railway Interest Group is set to meet at Forge Mill Museum for a talk on Irish Narrow Gauge Railways this Friday. The talk will be given by Roger Crombleholme and starts at 2pm. A minimum donation of £3 is requested at every indoor meeting. For
A BROTHER and sister have been remanded in custody at Worcester Crown Court on a charge of attempting to pervert the course of justice by intimidating a witness. Andrew Hall, aged 42, of Mandalay Drive, Norton, Worcester, and Alyson Hall, 40, of The Meadway
JOE Rowe was denied a medal at the National Cyclo-Cross Championships at Sutton Park when he was caught up in a crash on the final lap. Bromsgrove rider Rowe suffered disappointment after he had been contending strongly for second place in the 50-years
AT the AGM, local historian and broadcaster Anne Bradford was elected as vice chairman. The forum was founded in 1994 by Tony Wherry, the then Worcestershire county and diocesan archivist, as a voluntary, non-political and non-sectarian umbrella organisation
FENCING, line dancing and dancing in a majorette troupe are just some of the hobbies St Bede's Middle School pupils have enjoyed success in. Richard Vernon demonstrated his agility by coming third in fencing competition held at Bromsgrove School, while
THE women's section celebrated its December meeting with fun and dancing. Dave Summers entertained us with his music talents. As always he was very popular. Refreshments were prepared and served by the committee. Father Christmas and his noble assistant
THE meeting opened with a minute's silence in memory of national chairman Barbara Gill and our own member Marie Hale. Sheila O'Shaugnessy is acting secretary while Margaret is away but otherwise the committee remained unchanged. Arrangements were made
THERE was an excellent print show by Graham Hodgkiss, entitled After the Dark. The prints were produced on a computer from transparencies and showed the vast range of subjects Graham photographs. The second slide competition was judged by Peter Gennard
ALVECHURCH Morris Men will be holding a New Dancers Night at Alvechurch Baptist Church on Monday from 8.30pm, followed by drinks in a local pub. The group is men only and open to those aged 18 and over. For more details, call Chris on 0121 447 7071 or
PARTNERS and Communities Together (PACT) meetings will be taking place over the next few weeks across Redditch following their success in the central ward. PACT meetings form part of a Government initiative called Local Policing which will see police,
SPARE change thrown into the Worcester Square fountain before it was removed has been donated to a worthwhile cause. Kingfisher Shopping Centre management has handed over the £375 collected from the fountain to the Primrose Hospice and Cancer Care Centre
A VOLKSWAGEN Beetle worth more than £21,000 was stolen from the Enfield Industrial Estate. The black Cabriolet vehicle, which was less than a year old, was taken on Thursday at about 5pm. A police spokesman said: "We know these cars are very recognisable
Droitwich 23 Berkswell and Balsall 5 Midlands Division Four West (South) DROITWICH made an impressive start to 2006 by trouncing Berkswell and Balsall at the Glynn Mitchell Memorial ground on Saturday. Two Droitwich players ambush a Berkswell and Balsall
The female ferret is called a jill, while the male is called a hob. Babies are called kits. A group of ferrets is known as a business. The average size of a hob is 17in to 24in in length, while jills are between 12in to 16in long. Their average lifespan
BOB Shaw has recently stepped down from the governing body at Prince Henry's High School after many years, several as chairman and is now devoting much of his energy to developing Evesham Cricket Club, with whom Prince Henry's has a formal agreement.
THE Worcestershire Schools Badminton Association is holding its Under-17s Champio-nships on Sunday, January 29 at Droitwich High School. The event will include girls and boys singles and doubles and coach Lorraine Cole would like to see as many young
Stratford & District Men's Winter Tennis League Latest positions - Division One: 1 Stratford B P6, Pts 14; 2 Stratford C 7, 14; 3 Inkberrow 4, 12; 4 Beckford 5, 11; Kenilworth 6, 11; Evesham 7, 11; Campden 7, 11; Littleton 6, 8. Division Two: 1 Wythall
IMAGINE in your wildest dreams racing flat-out for an hour on the indoor karting track at Autosport International in a four-person team headed by an invited celebrity. And, for a limited number of lucky people, you get into the show at tomorrow's Trade
Evesham and District League Results - Handicap Cup first round: BBC 90, Dumbleton 130; Evesham WMC 70, Ambassador Bronze 0; Offenham Blue 140, Ambassador Pink 120; Offenham Black 50, Badsey 40; Pershore 80, Offenham Green 110; Bidford 60, Badsey B 100
Wage rise calls UNION leaders called for an increase in the national minimum wage after new figures showed a huge contrast in hourly pay rates for workers across the UK. The GMB said the average hourly pay is £12.50, more than twice the adult minimum
HSBC warned that up to half its staff could fall ill or be absent at the height of a bird flu pandemic. The world's third largest bank - which is based in London but has operations in 77 countries - yesterday said it was planning for a "worst case scenario
MEMBERS of Alcester Chamber of Trade and Commerce are set to benefit from new changes coming into force in February. A new website has been set up to showcase a number of town businesses, allowing site visitors information on the Chamber of Trade and
BUSINESSES in Worcester-shire and Herefordshire are being invited to help make 2006 the year for safety in the workplace by taking part in a health and safety programme. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents is set to celebrate the Golden
BRINGING a touch of artistic flair to the new year Alcester's Venue Xpresso presents two special guests who will demonstrate their skills. This month's artist at work in the window will be local teenager James Staley, who will give a demonstration of
TITAN Europe, a manufacturer of big wheels for the construction and agricultural markets, which has its headquarters at Cookley, near Kidderminster, has bought out two companies. The wheelmaker has ac-quired NewCo SpA and Italtractor ITM SpA, which is
THE roof of a sunken conference centre will provide a stunning walkway into a public square at the heart of the winning design to regenerate Worcester's old Royal Infirmary site. The victorious architects say they hope to restore the historic buildings
SAUNDERS Donna and Mark would like to announce the safe arrival of their beautiful daughter Frankie Anne, born December 28th 2005 at 7.44 p.m weighing 7lbs 10½ ozs. A sister for Harry. Many thanks to all Staff at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
FELLOWS Tracy and Dek nee Morris Would like to announce the early arrival of their beautiful daughter, Eadie Ann, born December 30th, 2005 at The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, weighing 1lb 13ozs. Special thanks to all Staff at The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital
COTTRELL Derek James Passed away January 11th, 2000. Remembering with much love a loving husband, father and grandfather. Still sadly missed. Just to see your face, and see your smile, even for a little while, Tears we still shed, but precious memories
MALE Matthew Of Abberley, on January 7th, 2006, tragically as the result of a road traffic accident, aged 31 years. Sadly missed by all his Family and Friends. Funeral service at Worcester Crematorium on Wednesday, January 18th, at 12.30 p.m. No flowers
CLARKE Gerald Douglas Of Cripplegate House, St Johns. Passed away peacefully on January 5th 2006, aged 80 years. Funeral Service will take place at Worcester Crematorium on Thursday, January 19th at 10.30 a.m. No flowers please by request. All Friends
BAND Shark Attack glide into the Wishing Well to play a gig on Friday, January 13. The band is set to play a musical feast of music, from southern blues to soul, jazz and rock at the bar on St John's Street. Guitarist Elmer O'Shea has played with Fleetwood
THE Artrix is offering the chance for musical lovers to burst into song on Sunday, January 14, when Singalong The Sound of Music comes to Bromsgrove (7pm start). Join hundreds of fans of the musical dressed up members as of the Von Trapp family and Julie
ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION: Alerting all ex-RAF personnel to an extraordinary general meeting of the Evesham branch Royal Air Force Association at their headquarters, The Evesham Working Mens Club, Merstow Green on Monday, January 16, at 2pm, please
YOUTH CLUBS: The youth clubs all start again this week, with full programmes taking them through the Easter period and into the summer. Emma Lucas, the youth leader, has been meeting her teams of volunteer helpers regularly and putting together a number
LADIES' GUILD: Members were transported to the South West of Ireland at the start of their New Year's meeting, when the speaker, Ray Sturdy, showed slides taken when he and a group of Mencap supporters undertook a cycle tour of that area to raise money
Wednesday, January 11 Peter Pan, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street. Until January 29. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com The Snow Queen, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Until January 14. Tickets on 0870 607 7533. Mother Goose, Swan
THE ball has started rolling for a brand new production at Bromsgrove's Artrix this year. Local theatre group All & Sundry's next big production is an Old Time Variety Show, which is set to start on March 16 and run for three nights. Preparations
TONIGHT sees a beast set loose in Feckenham with a visit from the Oxfordshire Touring Theatre. The company rolls into town as part of the Shindig Touring Programme to present Beauty and the Beast at Feckenham Village Hall, bringing some big names with
THE musical Jekyll and Hyde tells a gripping story and Ross-on-Wye's X-entricity Theatre is bringing it to the stage from tonight (Thursday) until Saturday and then again from January 19-21. Following the sad death of his father, the well-respected scientist
OLD and new collide in spectacular fashion in the new production of The Snow Queen at the Alexandra Theatre. Shirley Anne Field (Saturday Night Sunday Morning and My Beautiful Laundrette) stars as the eponymous Snow Queen, who spirits away character main
TICKETS are still available for Norbury Theatre's pantomime spectacular Aladdin, which starts this week. The amateur production features a local cast of 20 playing all of your favourite characters, including Wishee-Washee, Widow Twankee and the Genie
MUSICAL powerhouse Grease roars back into the Alexandra Theatre for a limited showing from next Tuesday. This time the smash hit show, placed at the top of Channel 4's 100 Greatest Musicals over Christmas, has a local flavour when it comes to Birmingham
GALANTHUS Gallery has an inspiring exhibition of work by three artists living in Wales. Helen Booth and Mark Folds are neighbours who have both emigrated from England to rural west Wales. While Mark's new work is a direct response to the landscape he
HEATH Ledger turns in the best performance of his career in this poignant tale of forbidden and secretive love between two cowboys over a span of 20 years. It wouldn't surprise me if the Aussie heartthrob, most famous for more lightweight roles in 10
HOBBIT Elijah Wood turns hard nut in this violent drama about football hooliganism. When journalism student Matt Buckner (Wood) is unfairly expelled from Harvard he goes to stay with his sister in London. Befriended by the charming but dangerous Pete
A DYSFUNCTIONAL film and a highly dysfunctional family, this is not a film to be taken seriously - and definitely not one for anyone who does not enjoy the odd bit of violence and unnecessary bad language. The sequel to director Rob Zombie's House of
Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Marlow 2 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney NEW manager Rod Brown suffered a nightmare home debut at the Victoria Ground, as self-destructing Bromsgrove Rovers slipped up to Marlow on Tuesday evening. A piece of magic
BRETFORTON Ladies play host to long distance travellers on the Astroturf at Evesham High School on Sunday. The Vale side are in National Trophy action against Lancaster in a match that gets under way at 12 noon. Supporters will be more than welcome. In
A WAR veteran was disgusted by the mess binmen left on his driveway and then further angered by the way the council dealt with his complaint. Eighty-year-old David Ellis, of Southall Avenue, Ombersley, said he could not believe it when he found litter
THE Morgan Motor Company of Malvern is celebrating a world first as one of its cars reaches its 70th year. The Morgan 4/4 has the longest continuous run of any production car in the world. To celebrate, the firm, based in Pickersleigh Road, Malvern, will
THE Artrix is offering the chance for musical lovers to burst into song on Sunday, January 14, when Singalong The Sound of Music comes to Bromsgrove (7pm start). Join hundreds of fans of the musical dressed up members as of the Von Trapp family and Julie
Animal lover Anne Robinson, knows more than most about the advantages of owning a pet ferret as she has helped to rescue and re-home 258 of the creatures since she launched the first registered charity dedicated to ferrets in the country in 2003. Anne
YOU may not realise it but most people know at least one of guitarist Gordon Giltrap's works. The name might not be instantly recognisable, but Giltrap's most famous piece, Heartsong, burrowed its way into the public psyche as the theme tune to BBC One's
AN exhibition where visitors can look at art before having the option to buy it is proving to be a success at Worcester City Art Gallery. The Craftcase exhibition - which runs all year round - displays various kinds of art bought from local artists by
A VIDEO telling people more about patient choice in Worcestershire will be shown in shopping centres around the county from this week. Since the new year, all patients have the right to be offered the choice of at least four hospitals or clinics when
homebuyers with £6m to spare have been queuing up to take a look around one of Worcestershire's most expensive properties. Worcester estate agent Andrew Grant said there had been considerable interest in Stanbrook Abbey in Callow End since the 19th Century
PEOPLE will be able to wing their way to Worcester City Museum and Art Gallery to catch sight of a majestic bird as it goes on display following an extensive restoration. 'Albert' the albatross has been absent from the city museum in Foregate Street for
THE shoulder strain suffered by Worcester lock Tim Collier is likely to keep him out for at least six weeks. The 21-stone player, who has only recently returned following a hernia problem, is undergoing rehab on the injured shoulder. Collier has struggled
ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION: Alerting all ex-RAF personnel to an extraordinary general meeting of the Evesham branch Royal Air Force Association at their headquarters, The Evesham Working Mens Club, Merstow Green on Monday, January 16, at 2pm, please
TENNIS: Wythall B made the best of starts to the new year with a 4-0 victory at FISSC B in their relegation battle. Opening pair Matt Smith and Kevin Turner won their match 6-4, 6-1 while Rob Spencer and Joe Singleton came through 6-4, 7-5. It was a similar
REDDITCH will head to neighbours and league rivals Woodrush on Saturday looking for a hat-trick of cup wins. The sides, opponents in North Midlands One (South), will meet in the North Midlands Cup for the third year in a row. Redditch have taken the spoils
ANGLING: Label Innovations held an invitation open at Manor Farm Leisure Fishery's Boundary Pool on Saturday. Pete Lewis beat 16 other anglers thanks to his 18lb haul of carp. On the opposite side of the pool Glyn Blewett waggler fished maggot for a carp
MEMBERS of Redditch Urban District Council's planning committee were told by a representative from a Wolverhampton firm of architects at a meeting on Tuesday that the cost of the proposed crematorium in the Birmingham Road cemetery would be more than
ALCESTER housewife Alice Hoskins had an unwelcome encounter as she walked home on Sunday evening - a semi-naked man leapt out in front of her. He asked her for a safety pin because his trousers were ripped but when 53-year-old Mrs Hoskins looked at him
FECKENHAM extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches - including 11 wins - at the weekend with a comprehensive 5-1 demolition of relegation-threatened Pilkington XXX. Ryan Field and Stuart Douglas both bagged braces with Kevin Leggatt also on the mark
TONIGHT sees a beast set loose in Feckenham with a visit from the Oxfordshire Touring Theatre. The company rolls into town as part of the Shindig Touring Programme to present Beauty and the Beast at Feckenham Village Hall, bringing some big names with
RESIDENTS can look forward to a night with a difference at St Luke's Church in Headless Cross this Friday. Shindig, the county's renowned rural and community touring scheme presents New Kremlinaires at the Evesham Road church from 7pm. Inspired by a 2002
Evesham Utd 3, Rugby Tn 0 LIKE him or loathe him, you just can't help but admire the influence of Lee Knight, writes Mervyn Collins. The central defender was recalled to United's starting 11 but it was his attacking instincts that helped the Robins to
FIFTEEN minutes from time and Andy Robbins was seemingly set to claim his second win as Pershore Town manager. However, three goals from Alveston left the King George's outfit reflecting on a 4-2 defeat last Saturday and Robbins with plenty to do if he
Evesham Utd U-12 1, Sutton Coldfield 1 HONOURS were even when Eve-sham took on the Midland Junior Premiership leaders. United started the stronger but went a goal behind against the run of play following a period of sustained pressure on the visitors
Littleton 5, Perrywood 3 FOUR goals from Paul Jones was the highlight of Saturday's hard-fought Evesham Hospital Cup quarter-final tie. The rain that was falling for much of the game made for a greasy surface that favoured the attackers as defenders found
QUINTON'S Mark Morrey was the sole hat-trick ace in the Aquaid first division of the Stratford Alliance on an afternoon when three more players netted twice. Morrey's treble helped his side to a 4-1 win over Earlswood, a margin of victory matched at Ilmington
WORCESTER City's away-day frustrations continued last night as they slumped 1-0 to Vauxhall Motors in Nation-wide North. Andy Preece described the South Wirral clash as a must-not-lose fixture, but City were not at the races against the fast improving
THE shoulder strain suffered by Worcester lock Tim Collier is likely to keep him out for at least six weeks. The 21-stone player, who has only recently returned following a hernia problem, is undergoing rehab on the injured shoulder. Collier has struggled
JOHNNY Mullins, Harriers' match-winner against Woking on Saturday, has extended his loan spell at Aggborough until the end of the season. The 20-year-old defender, who is contracted to Championship leaders Reading, also spent most of last season at Kidderminster
Evesham Utd 3, Rugby Tn 0 LIKE him or loathe him, you just can't help but admire the influence of Lee Knight, writes Mervyn Collins. The central defender was recalled to United's starting 11 but it was his attacking instincts that helped the Robins to
Evesham Utd Ladies 0, Phoenix Hereford 5 EVESHAM went into Sunday's game looking to extend their winning sequence to four games but found it difficult to make any great impression against the league leaders. Coming into the game with a 100 per cent league
Scunthorpe 44 Bromsgrove 3 Midlands Division One NEW-year same old story for beleaguered Bromsgrove as they suffered a six-try defeat in the Midlands Division One on Saturday. A powerful Scunthorpe side quickly ended any hopes that 2006 would allow the
BROMSGROVE under-7s lost two high scoring matches against Droitwich on Sunday. The young Boars lost 55-35, despite tries for Johnathan Hawkins (2), Charlie Marshall (2), Harry Brown and James Smalley (2). Bromsgrove were then beaten 55-20 by Spa, despite
Bromsgrove Colts 14 Crusaders 10 Bromsgrove Colts started the New Year in fine style by retaining the Brotherton Cup in the annual challenge match against the Bromsgrove veterans. A second half try by Joe Baker saw off hard working Crusaders at Finstall
I RESPOND to correspondence, suggesting that amalgamation of West Mercia Constabulary into a large regional police force would give financial efficiencies. The local Consultative Group unanimously objected to such amalgamation as have other bodies. May
IN reply to the letter 'Suffering' - as a teenager I would like to give my view regarding the anti-social behaviour in Grafton Crescent. I have lived in Charford, Bromsgrove, for over 10 years now, and myself, as well as the other residents, have to suffer
WE would just like to say 'thank you and a happy new year' to the driver of a blue car who on December 7 mounted the pavement and destroyed the rose bed in our front garden. We realise that it was an accident due to the icy road, but they could have at
THROUGH the Advertiser/Messenger I would like to thank the lady who helped me get home on the evening of December 15 from Birmingham's New Street railway station. We waited at least an hour and during that time, four trains were cancelled with no indication
ALTHOUGH it was at the bottom of the letters page recently, thank goodness someone has at last drawn attention to Bromsgrove District Council's greed, disregard of the publics 'pocket' and refusal to care about the people living within walking distance
HARRIERS defender Gavin Hurren has been loaned out to Bromsgrove Rovers as manager Mark Yates attempts to get fringe squad members playing regular first-team football. Hurren, who joined Kidderminster in the summer after being released by Nottingham Forest
Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Marlow 2 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney NEW manager Rod Brown suffered a nightmare home debut at the Victoria Ground, as self-destructing Bromsgrove Rovers slipped up to Marlow on Tuesday evening. A piece of magic
BROMSGROVE Rovers' new manager Rod Brown made a plea for unity by asking the club's disgruntled fans to get behind the team. Brown, who replaced Jimmy Mullen as manager on Thursday, January 5, wants fans to forget the last few weeks and concentrate on
Barnt Green Spartak Reserves 2 Droitwich Spa 6 DROITWICH overcame a strong Barnt Green side to make it into the semi-finals of the Worcestershire Nursing Cup on Saturday. Spa, who play in the Midlands Combination Division Two, were given a fright by their
Kings Norton 33 Handsworth 7 KINGS Norton maintained their challenge for league honours with a hard-fought victory against a spirited Handsworth side. Snow made for tricky conditions before the break but it was the home side who broke the deadlock on
VICTORIA Barnt Green cruised into the third round of the Bridgewater Cup by defeating Black Cross 4-0 on Sunday. Hall, Davis and Weatherall (2) hit the back of the net to make sure of Green's progress. Church Hill United Reserves edged Navigation 3-2
Alcester 5 Trinity Guild 9 ALCESTER could not have had a worse start to the new year than this defeat against the league's basement boys. And it now means the King's Coughton side are only off the foot of the table on points difference. Alcester dominated
WESTBURY Celtic edged West Heath Snooker 3-2 in the Redditch and South Warwickshire Combination League Premier Division on Sunday. Austin Ex-Apprentices defeated Bromsgrove General 2-0, while Fairfield Sunday got the better of Mettis Aerospace 3-1. Wychbold
Woodrush u16s romped to a convincing 47-0 victory over visitors Stratford on Sunday, running in nine tries in the process. One of the highlights was a surging rolling mall that started from the Stratford 10 yard line and that eventually took the Woodrush
GOALSCORERS 10 - Hadland, Banner. 6 - Barnes-Homer, Dyer 5 - Danks. 4 - Porter. 3 - Curtis, Szewczyk. 2 - Smith, Ramsay, Johnson, Maguire. 1 - Collins, Mitchell, Geohaghan, Willetts. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 5 - Hadland 3 - Dyer
DJ Stephen Smith is to try again in the summer after abandoning a five-day turntable challenge. Stephen, also known as DJ Smithy, hoped to establish a new world record at the Tally Ho, Broadheath, near Tenbury Wells, but gave up before 24 hours were up
MANSELL Geoffrey Geoff Of Littleworth. On December 24th 2005, in hospital, aged 74 years. Much loved husband of Sylvia. Enquiries to E Hill & Son, Funeral Directors, Pershore. 01386 552141.
WILDE Elizabeth Passed peacefully away on her 101st birthday in South Hayes Care Home. Adored mother of Joan, Vernon, Phyllis and the late Iris. A very caring grandmother and great grandmother, a much respected mother in law. She was dearly loved by us
WILLIAMS Dorothy Greta Beryl Passed away peacefully in Worcestershire Royal Hospital on January 4th 2006, aged 80 years. A beloved wife to Joe, a dearly loved mum to Carole and David, also a loving mother in law to David and Mary and nan to Emma. Funeral
SMITH Stewart Barry Passed away suddenly on December 31st, 2005. Age 55 years. Will be very sadly missed by sister Lesley and all Family and Friends. The Funeral Service will take place at St Marys Church, Cleobury Mortimer, on Tuesday January 17th, at
ROBERTS John. October 8th 1944 - January 5th 2006 in Vancouver, Canada. John finally lost a brave two year battle to a brain tumour. He was born in Worcester and was the only son of Elsie and Sid Roberts both deceased and brother to Gwen Reg Bayliss.
STANLEY Eveline May Passed away peacefully on January 5th 2006 aged 91 years. A loving mum, nan, great nan and sister, she will be sadly missed. Funeral service will take place at Worcester Crematorium on Thursday, January 19th at 2.30 p.m. Flowers may
EDWARDS. Joseph. Treasured memories of Joe, a very special husband, father and grandfather. Sadly missed by all the Family. Much love Mercia.
HAINES Elsie Precious memories of a dearly loved mum and gran. Val, Rich and Family. ------------ Loving memories of my dear sister. Brother John.
HALLEN Nigel Francis William January 11th 2005. Suddenly taken from us. Sadly missed by his devoted wife Betty, daughter Judith and son Paul. Such a kind thoughtful dad and treasured funny grandad. God Bless. Love from all the Family.
Scunthorpe 44 Bromsgrove 3 Midlands Division One NEW-year same old story for beleaguered Bromsgrove as they suffered a six-try defeat in the Midlands Division One on Saturday. A powerful Scunthorpe side quickly ended any hopes that 2006 would allow the
BAND Shark Attack glide into the Wishing Well to play a gig on Friday, January 13. The band is set to play a musical feast of music, from southern blues to soul, jazz and rock at the bar on St John's Street. Guitarist Elmer O'Shea has played with Fleetwood
MAGNET therapy might not cure your pain, but it could harm your pocket, according to new research. Many Worcester News readers were among those who reported pain relief after buying bracelets and other devices - such as insoles and knee bands - which
FLAMENCO rockers Gypsy Pistoleros are set to taste the rock and roll lifestyle when they tour Spain with former Guns and Roses drummer Steve Adler. The flamboyant band, which contains Bromsgrove based pair Lee Jones and Ian Walker, are set to play in
The case of a Worcestershire soldier who was executed by firing squad in the First World War has been described as a "grave injustice" which must be corrected. Campaigner, historian and senior university lecturer at Trinity College Dublin Dr Gerald Morgan
Prospective students can take a closer look at the University of Worcester at an open evening tomorrow to discover the study opportunities and facilities on offer. Anyone interested in full or part-time study can apply to start in late January or September
Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Marlow 2 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney NEW manager Rod Brown suffered a nightmare home debut at the Victoria Ground, as self-destructing Bromsgrove Rovers slipped up to Marlow on Tuesday evening. A piece of magic
Bracknell Town 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 2 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney THE Rod Brown era at Bromsgrove Rovers was ushered in with a battling victory away to ten men Bracknell on Saturday. Brown, who replaced Jimmy Mullen as Rovers boss
YOUTH CLUBS: The youth clubs all start again this week, with full programmes taking them through the Easter period and into the summer. Emma Lucas, the youth leader, has been meeting her teams of volunteer helpers regularly and putting together a number
WEDNESDAY CLUB: Members met on January 4 when Mrs M Boath presided, birthday cards were distributed after which a few minutes' silence was observed for the recent passing of two old members - Mrs Anne Coldicott and Mrs Katherine Lewis. Names were taken
BRIDGE CLUB: The North Cotswolds Bridge Club is celebrating its 20th anniversary with three days of special events in Moreton on January 27, 28 and 29. Non-members from the district are very welcome to join the fun in the Redesdale Hall, either for rubber
LADIES' GUILD: Members were transported to the South West of Ireland at the start of their New Year's meeting, when the speaker, Ray Sturdy, showed slides taken when he and a group of Mencap supporters undertook a cycle tour of that area to raise money
RESIDENTS are urged to be on their guard if they receive a letter advising them they have won a digital camera. Police have been alerted to the scam after a Redditch woman contacted them saying she had received an official-looking letter claiming she
BROMSGROVE Rovers' new manager Rod Brown made a plea for unity by asking the club's disgruntled fans to get behind the team. Brown, who replaced Jimmy Mullen as manager on Thursday, January 5, wants fans to forget the last few weeks and concentrate on
EVESHAM United manager Dave Busst is realistic enough to know that last Saturday's win will count for nothing unless his side can string together a decent run of results, writes Mervyn Collins. The Robins hit the road for the first of five successive
OVER the last few months, this newspaper has watched with great interest the dramatic changes that have been taking place in Worcester. We make no apology for this enthusiasm, for it is our heartfelt belief that the Faithful City is currently undergoing
Wednesday, January 11 Peter Pan, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street. Until January 29. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com The Snow Queen, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Until January 14. Tickets on 0870 607 7533. Mother Goose, Swan
VICTOR Wells, of Redditch, a well-known character, was charged with damaging a clock to the amount of 2s, the property of Percy William Sealey, a watchmaker and jeweller of Evesham Street, Redditch, on January 5. Prosecutor stated that at midnight on
Wednesday, January 11 FILM: Mrs Henderson Presents (7.30pm start), Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove. THEATRE: The Snow Queen, Alexandra Theatre, Alexandra Theatre (until January 14). THEATRE: Peter Pan (until January 29), Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham
Studley 1 Moor Green 4 Worcestershire Senior Cup STUDLEY may have bowed out of the cup but they were far from disgraced against a side who play their football three leagues higher. The damage was done over a 15-minute spell midway through the first half
YOUNGSTERS can brush up their skills next month at a soccer school to be held in Redditch. Coaches from Premiership club Aston Villa will be at Kingsley College for the week-long event starting on Monday, February 13. Children aged between seven and 13
HOME, away (Midlands One fixtures unless stated) SEPTEMBER Sat 03 Whitchurch (Powergen National Trophy, Midlands round one) 3-51 Sat 10 BURTON 14-41 Sat 17 Luctonians (Powergen National Trophy, Midlands round two). Sat Dudley Kingswinford 48-12 OCTOBER
GREASE is the word - or it will be next week in Birmingham. Holding the title of Channel 4's Number One Greatest Musical for two consecutive years, the toe-tapping, sing-a-long favourite arrives at the Alexandra Theatre on Tuesday. Back by popular demand
THE ball has started rolling for a brand new production at Bromsgrove's Artrix this year. Local theatre group All & Sundry's next big production is an Old Time Variety Show, which is set to start on March 16 and run for three nights. Preparations
EVESHAM United manager Dave Busst is realistic enough to know that last Saturday's win will count for nothing unless his side can string together a decent run of results, writes Mervyn Collins. The Robins hit the road for the first of five successive
PLENTY of local interest remains in a variety of Worcestershire FA cup competitions at both senior and junior level going into the New Year. Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League pair Red Horse and Ambassador face fourth round action in the
Evesham Utd Ladies 0, Phoenix Hereford 5 EVESHAM went into Sunday's game looking to extend their winning sequence to four games but found it difficult to make any great impression against the league leaders. Coming into the game with a 100 per cent league
FAIRFIELD Sports continued their good form to move six points clear at the top of division four of the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League. Goals from Stanley (3), Kay and Hawkins accounted for Blue Maze on a day when Bengeworth Sports
HARRIERS defender Gavin Hurren has been loaned out to Bromsgrove Rovers as manager Mark Yates attempts to get fringe squad members playing regular first-team football. Hurren, who joined Kidderminster in the summer after being released by Nottingham Forest
NEW Bromsgrove manager Rod Brown was given an early insight into the size of his task at Rovers when he watched his side crash 2-0 at home to Marlow last night. His second match in charge went downhill as early as the third minute when Adam Dickens scored
THE next rounds of the Worcestershire FA County Cup will be staged on January 28 and 29. WFA Saturday Junior Cup semi finals: Hanley Swan v Archdale '73; Fairfield Villa v Chaddesley Corbett. WFA Saturday Minor Cup semi finals: Rising Sun v Burlish Olympic
DAN James is preparing for his first taste of international rugby overseas after being named in the England Students' 26-man squad to take on teams from France and Italy next month. The 20-year-old student from Sinton Green, near Worcester, took part
WORCESTER Sixth Form College moved into the fourth round of the Daily Mail Under 18 Vase after a 10-0 win over Chase School, Malvern. In the next round of the competition, they will play host to King Edward VI, Five Ways. In the Under 15 Vase, RGS Worcester
SCOUTS AND GUIDES GROUP: A jumble sale is being held on January 28, 2pm at HQ on Pershore Road. Donations can be dropped off at the hut from 10am. Profit from the November bazaar amounted to £330.
BARRY Clements will again lead Evesham Cricket Club after skippering the Avon Street men to promotion from Birmingham League Division Three last summer. "I am relishing the challenge," Clements declared. "The club is in better shape than I have ever known
Droitwich 23 Berkswell and Balsall 5 Midlands Division Four West (South) DROITWICH made an impressive start to 2006 by trouncing Berkswell and Balsall at the Glynn Mitchell Memorial ground on Saturday. Two Droitwich players ambush a Berkswell and Balsall
AN END could be in sight to the boardroom wrangles at Redditch United. A group of five directors are at loggerheads with chairman Pat Cremin and vice-chairman Richard Shields over the running of the club. Both groups are thought to have called extraordinary
JOHNNY Mullins, Harriers' match-winner against Woking on Saturday, has extended his loan spell at Aggborough until the end of the season. The 20-year-old defender, who is contracted to Championship leaders Reading, also spent most of last season at Kidderminster
Bracknell Town 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 2 Southern League Division One West By Peter McKinney THE Rod Brown era at Bromsgrove Rovers was ushered in with a battling victory away to ten men Bracknell on Saturday. Brown, who replaced Jimmy Mullen as Rovers boss
Ettington 2 Fairfield Villa 4 VILLA manager Paul Oakes was delighted at the way his side stood up to physical opposition in Saturday's victory in the Midland Combination Division One. Oakes had been warned that no-nonsense Ettington would prove to be
BROMSGROVE Rovers' Supporters Society are holding a meeting at the DDS&S Club tonight (Wednesday). The meeting, which is open to all members of the society and newcomers, is set to discus ways of raising money if the club was to come up for sale the
IT happened in the sixties. We watched whilst concrete high-rises took the place of warm, living communities. Now it is corporate business crushing individual life out of small towns like Droitwich. To allow the destruction of a small enclave of individual
A MOVE to increase tourism and trade in Tenbury by matching car-parking prices in Ludlow has been turned down by Malvern Hills district councillors. Councillor George Price, who put forward the proposal to encourage people to stay longer in the town,
THE new club captain and lady captain staged their drive-in on a chilly day at Broadway last Sunday. John Skinner has been a member of the Cotswolds club since 1968 and was also a keen rugby player and cricketer in his native Andover and when he moved
Old Silhillians 15pts, Pershore 9 NOT for the first time this season, Pershore had to endure a sixth loss by only one score but, in truth, the game was there to be won. The Piddle Park men have been winning plenty of possession in recent matches but have
Evesham U-10- 3, Alcester 5 THE first game back from any holiday is always a worry, whether the lads will turn up wanting to play good aggressive rugby, turn up to play half a game or even turn up at all! Luckily, Evesham were able to field 11 players
Alcester 21, Evesham U-11 26pts FOR the first outing after the festive break, the youngsters started where they left off following the win against Exiles before Christ-mas. Evesham were strong in the scrummage, competed in the line-out and challenged
MUSICAL powerhouse Grease roars back into the Alexandra Theatre for a limited showing from next Tuesday. This time the smash hit show, placed at the top of Channel 4's 100 Greatest Musicals over Christmas, has a local flavour when it comes to Birmingham
CHRIS Smith's knee injury is a big setback and it looks as though he might need an operation. He suffered a nasty challenge at Stafford Rangers on Boxing Day and we suspected it was just bone bruising, but it could be more serious. Smudger sees a specialist
A NEW project is being launched in Redditch, Studley and Alcester this month to help women start their own part-time businesses. The Balancing Act is run within school hours by two self-employed local women, Anabela Ferreira and Anne Simper. "It's a programme
A THIRD generation family-run Redditch business has added another member to its ranks. business at MST's Redditch depot. Paul Waite, 37, has joined his father, Brian Waite who is depot manager for Midland Steel Traders (better known as MST) at their Redditch
A WATCH and jewellery expert from Wythall has been appointed assistant manager of the Harborne, Birmingham branch of top independent jeweller Rudell. Jason Spencer, who began his career 14 years ago as trainee with a local jeweller in Solihull before
THE fifth match of the Fisheasy Teams Winter League took place at Hampton Ferry and Evesham last Saturday. Ten teams of five are competing for an entry into the Eve-sham Angling Festival's Mid- land Angler Teams Champio-nships to be held over the August
SIR - Frank Sinatra didn't whine, Seamus Kelly, he sang with real depth of feeling - a marvellous voice. GEORGE COWLEY, Warndon, Worcester.
SIR - My new year's resolution last year was to pick up every piece of change I found lying in the street. I collected a total of £1.03p. I calculated it took me two minutes 28 seconds to collect this sum, which amounts to £25 per hour or, based on a
SIR - We are regularly told we should get our bikes out and not use the car. I would love to. I used to cycle a lot until I had a hip replacement in 1994. It was at the time they had problems with a hip replacement called a Castle "M." The cement used
MEMBERS and guests celebrated Christmas at our December meeting with traditional mince pies and wine and were then treated to a delightful selection of prose, poetry and slides by Vic Aspland. Vic's knowledge of plants impressed us once again, as did
SIR - I find it difficult to believe the attitude of the residents of Warndon Villages over something as inoffensive as the new O2 mast. What is all the fuss about? After seeing all the publicity in the area before it was erected I was expecting to see
WE met at Hanbury Village Hall for party time. Marion, our president, greeted us, together with three visitors. We sat at a festively decorated table, the room looked lovely. There was a Christmas tree in the corner and a huge mural on the end wall designed
SIR - In reply to A Woodbridge (December 27) I would like to say that I have indeed spent time in Worcester Hospital as a patient. That is how I formed my comparison to Selly Oak Hospital. In Worcestershire Royal Hospital, the day after my operation I
PRESIDENT Mary Davies thanked Margaret Goold, Cynthia Caldicott, Joan Flowerdew and Joyce Bottomley - retiring members of the committee. She said the members were truly indebted to them and they were each presented with a houseplant and a voucher. Secretary
THE Christmas credit card bills are dropping through letterboxes, the weather is dank and dismal, and the holidays just a distant dream - but on one Bromsgrove farm at least there is a sure and welcome sign that spring is on the way. Farmer turned midwife
LIFESAVING medical equipment worth thousands of pounds was stolen from Bromsgrove Ambulance Station on one of the busiest nights of the year. The theft of the major incident trailer happened in Barnsley Hall Drive, Lickey End. The unit and equipment are
COUNCIL tax payers in Bromsgrove have been short-changed after the £273,000 revamp of the town's bus station, it is claimed. The Labour group on Bromsgrove District Council say the improvements to the Market Street station, which were completed just before
ALL 18 in-patient beds could be axed at a much-needed mental health unit in Bromsgrove in a cash cutting move. As part of a review on mental health provision Worcestershire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust is looking at a series of options to make
THE intricate web of scaffolding rising slowly around Bromsgrove's ancient parish church presents a dramatic picture silhouetted against a clear winter sky and viewed from afar as the light begins to fade. The painstaking work which will take ten weeks
A LETTER implying householders in the Bromsgrove area will get a third wheelie bin to replace the two recycling boxes has been described as 'premature and a misunderstanding.' Several readers contacted the Advertiser/Messenger after a letter in last week's
WITH the death of Barbara Morrison, Bromsgrove's last link with the centuries-old craft of stained glass has been broken. Perhaps better known as the wife of the late Archibald John 'Loppylugs' Morrison, Barbara died on December 27 at the Hall Nursing
A SPECIALIST support programme that has already helped 20 ex-MG Rover workers start their own businesses has received a funding boost and is now on a major recruitment drive across the Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch area. Delivered by high-growth
A FORMER worker at a Droitwich Spa factory has called for town residents to be informed about the 'potential dangers' at a site which is situated close to the town centre. A past employee at Baxenden Chemicals, in Union Lane, thinks the site should be
DROITWICH Spa residents have a better chance of surviving a heart attack thanks to a new volunteer scheme set up in the area. Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service NHS Trust launched the Community First Responder scheme in the town on Wednesday, January
TWO Droitwich Spa brothers were seriously assaulted and robbed by a gang of youths after a birthday celebration. Police are appealing for witnesses after the two men were attacked by a group of teenagers in Westlands Way in the early hours of Sunday morning
Leigh RMI 2 Redditch United 1 A LATE penalty miss may have cost Redditch a share of the spoils but a draw at Leigh would hardly have been a fair reflection of this game. Gary Whild's side only came to life in the final 15 minutes by which time the Lancashire
WYRE Barbedwyre are still top Division Two of the Evesham and District Table Tennis Association after recording a fifth win of the season. Chris Gooderham made an impact on his return to the side with six wins to maintain a good start in the section averages
LAST year's winner Kicking King may be missing, but the 2006 Totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup promises to be as open as it has ever been with a record 64 entries revealed on Monday beating the previous highest total of 49 set in 2003. There are many established
IMAGINE in your wildest dreams racing flat-out for an hour on the indoor karting track at Autosport International in a four-person team headed by an invited celebrity. And, for a limited number of lucky people, you get into the show at tomorrow's Trade
Pershore Print League P W L F A Pts Pinvin 12 10 2 64 44 94 Coach 12 7 5 56 52 77 Pershore WMC 11 7 4 54 45 75 Old Oak 11 7 4 53 46 74 Plum Tree B 12 6 6 53 55 71 Bell 12 6 6 52 56 70 Football Club 11 5 6 52 47 67 Talbot 11 5 6 51 48 66 Fladbury SC 12
Evesham and District Quiz Association Bidford District P W D L Pts Holly Bush Hotel 7 6 0 1 12 Bird in Hand 7 6 0 1 12 Holly Bush Hotel B 7 5 0 2 10 Blue Boar 7 3 1 3 7 Frog and Bullrush 7 3 0 4 6 Blue Boar B 7 2 2 3 6 Cottage of Content 7 1 1 5 3 Frog
Old Silhillians 15pts, Pershore 9 NOT for the first time this season, Pershore had to endure a sixth loss by only one score but, in truth, the game was there to be won. The Piddle Park men have been winning plenty of possession in recent matches but have
Evesham and District League Results - Handicap Cup first round: BBC 90, Dumbleton 130; Evesham WMC 70, Ambassador Bronze 0; Offenham Blue 140, Ambassador Pink 120; Offenham Black 50, Badsey 40; Pershore 80, Offenham Green 110; Bidford 60, Badsey B 100
THE fifth match of the Fisheasy Teams Winter League took place at Hampton Ferry and Evesham last Saturday. Ten teams of five are competing for an entry into the Eve-sham Angling Festival's Mid- land Angler Teams Champio-nships to be held over the August
