Archive

Date

12/5/06 - Derbys wrestle control of clash

VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years. But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command. After dismissing the County

Date

12/5/06 - Harkness agrees to Harriers deal

JONNY Harkness has followed Michael McGrath in staying at Kidderminster Harriers for the next 12 months. The left-back, who scored a goal and provided a string of assists with deadly set-pieces, has signed a new Harriers deal. Harkness, 20, joined

Date

12/5/06 - Derbys wrestle control of clash

VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years. But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command. After dismissing the County

Date

EVENTS

MAY 12 The Birmingham & Midland Society for Genealogy & Heraldry A talk entitled Well Fancy That: Coincidences in Family History, at the Baptist Church Hall, Sansome Walk, Worcester, starting at 7.30pm. International ME Awareness Day At City

Date

12/5/06 - Warriors heading in the right direction

AS the dust settles on another season at Sixways, it is worth examining how far Worcester have come since last summer. The bare statistics are not especially flattering. The club had exactly the same amount of Premiership wins as they did in the last

Date

EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL MAY 20 New Exhibition of Works Featuring many paintings that have not been on show for a number of years, all based on a local theme. Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester. UNTIL MAY 27 Ceramics Exhibition

Date

THEATRE

UNTIL MAY 13 Festen Rufus Norris's brilliant, shattering production at Malvern Theatres. MAY 15-20 Billy Liar The Comedy by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall at Malvern Theatres. The Safari Party Starring Christopher Timothy, Sara

Date

12/5/06 - Garvey wings in to pep Warriors

WARRIORS have made a sensational swoop for Gloucester speedster Marcel Garvey. The highly-rated wing has agreed a two-year deal at Sixways and will link up again with John Brain -- the man who gave him his big break as a schoolboy. Garvey was frozen

Date

12/5/06 - Worcester Ladies on glory trail

WORCESTER Ladies RFC are going for glory in three national cup finals at Broadstreet RFC on Sunday. Top of the agenda will be victory in the final of the Rugby World National Cup where they take on fellow Premiership side Richmond -- a team that can

Date

CONCERTS

MAY 12 James Galway and London Mozart Players The world's most famous flautist is appearing at the Forum Theatre, Malvern. Fairport Convention Huntingdon Hall. MAY 13 The Yardbirds Huntingdon Hall. MAY 18 The Fureys and

Date

GIG GUIDE

tonight Fairport Convention - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Taxi with support from Shawn Jones - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint Street, Worcester Blind Lemon - Drummond's Bar, New Street, Worcester Highway 5 - The Paul Pry, The Butts, Worcester Torque -

Date

ROUND-UP: SINGING CHEFS WILL TAKE YOU TO ANCIENT EGYPT

l THE all-singing, all-dancing Singing Sous'Chefs will again be bringing their entertaining show to Worcestershire next month with a two-date gig in Malvern. The trio - Adrian Mealing from Colwall, Leominster-based stonemason Jim Howden and Bransford-based

Date

He'll blow you away

ONE of the country's top saxophonists and flautists is set to show off his talents in Worcester this month with a gig at the city's Huntingdon Hall. Snake Davis has worked with a wealth of musicians over the years including everyone from M People and

Date

Big names at festival on town's racecourse

MERCURY Music Prize nominees and World Music award winners are set to be among the line-up of this year's Wychwood Music Festival, taking place next month. The event, being held over the weekend of Friday, June 2 to Sunday, June 4, is now in its second

Date

Manchester calling for every Clash fan

OVER the years they have bashed out the hits of their idols The Clash - and now one band is set to take the stage at a major gig in memory of its lead singer Joe Strummer. Worcester-based Clash tribute act Take The Fifth are one of nearly 30 acts who

Date

These pirates are heading this way

PIRATES of the River Severn, a nautical adventure, is set to sail into the county. Gloucestershire-based Fabulous Old Spot Theatre Company is presenting the show at two village locations for Shindig - Worcestershire's Rural and Community Touring Scheme

Date

A day for children at the sea

IF you do like to be beside the seaside a children's theatre production in Droitwich could be just for you. The Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, is hosting I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside, which tells the tale of two theatre cleaners who want a holiday

Date

Arabian classic is told in French

A FANCIFUL story of sorcerers, jewels and genies is set to be vividly performed for youngsters in simple French at The Courtyard, Hereford. The unique and educational performance by Théâtre Sans Frontières tells the tale of a young tearaway called

Date

Laugh along with Paddy

ANYONE who fancies clowning around at the Swan Theatre in Worcester is invited to join a very special visitor when he drops in. Guaranteeing hilarious, mad mayhem for all the family, Paddy The Clown's award-winning Laughter Show promises to be a hit

Date

You can learn to be a star

COUNTY youngsters are being given the chance to tread the same boards as hundreds of stars of both stage and screen. Malvern Theatres has a limited number of places on a special theatre performance course that aims to equip budding thespians with the

Date

Eggs over candles

SIR - In order to reduce pollution and conserve energy (Mr Reynolds, May 3), I now boil my eggs over a candle. It takes ages. GEORGE COWLEY, Windermere Drive, Worcester

Date

Parking charges

SIR - Regarding George Cowley's letter about the council trying to balance the books with car parking charges, councillors have put the charges so high that it drives out shoppers. JOHN SHEARON, Worcester.

Date

This immoral war

SIR - Are you not sickened when newly-appointed Defence Secretary Des Browne tells us he is "deeply saddened" by the deaths of at least four more British service personnel in Iraq? One hundred and eight have so far been killed in an open-ended and

Date

What is happening to this country?

SIR - Not so long ago this nation was told by the politicians of all three main parties that unless appropriate and substantial rewards were made for their services, people with the required abilities and of appropriate bearing would never be attracted

Date

I will continue to work for my ward

SIR - I would like to thank the people of St John's for re-electing me as their city councillor. To receive so many votes was a very humbling experience. I will continue to work hard for the community, ensuring their voice is heard. SAM ARNOLD, Worcester

Date

Thanks to people of Bedwardine

SIR - May I thank the people of Bedwardine for returning me to Worcester City Council. I am very grateful to have been given their trust to serve the ward for another four years. In return, I pledge to be available to listen to the concerns of the

Date

This is a case of the wrong Liz

SIR - Before the correspondence regarding the county council's recent report on public transport goes any further, I'd like to point out - for the sake of clarity - that the scrutiny task force that produced it was in fact chaired by Liz Tucker, the Lib

Date

We will serve to best of our ability

SIR - I am very grateful to everyone in Battenhall ward who voted for me in the city elections. There was a turnout of 43.1 per cent, 1,015 people voted for me and a majority of 631 was magnificent. My colleague Councillor Robert Rowden and I will

Date

It was Conway, not Nye Bevan

SIR - D E Margrett's letter (May 2) discussing current problems in the NHS comments that "up to 1979, NHS managers were expected to reflect the spirit of Aneurin Bevan's dream." The NHS is merely an extension on a national level of a medical scheme that

Date

Worcester in need of a concert hall

SIR - The announcement of the development in Lowesmoor means more shops for Worcester. No surprise there, then! This council is only capable of building shops and apartments. It has no vision - what we need is a concert hall that will attract top class

Date

What about police and the tax office?

SIR - Cars have been clamped while parked on former Courts car park in Lowesmoor, Worcester. I would ask if Rowencroft Immobilisers is legally clamping these people, or is it just making a fast buck at the expense of the parkers? What is happening

Date

Clamping saga a case of passing the buck

SIR - The whole episode of Courts car parking is a classic example of passing the buck. The owners don't appear to want to know, it seems. The people leasing it don't know who authorised the clamping. The police say it's not their problem and the planning

Date

Record-breaking year for awards

SIXTY entries have been received for the Chamber Awards 2006 to make it a record-breaking year for the prestigious annual awards scheme. The glitz-and-glamour black-tie awards dinner looks set to be a hotbed of excitement as the names of the winners

Date

Stay vigilant but remain calm, too

IT'S every parent's nightmare. Despite the vigilance, warnings and constant assessments of risk and probability, all mums and dads know in their hearts that there is no complete defence against the neighbourhood pervert. It is impossible to tell whether

Date

New sight on the river

AS its predecessor rusts in the Diglis Basin, the Earl sets sail on the Severn. The boat is the latest addition to the fleet operated by River Severn Cruises. Managing director Chris Winwood said that it had an interesting history. "Built in 1923

Date

Plea for a home and wages link

AFFORDABLE housing in rural areas should be linked to local wages, according to a report published this week. Parish councils should have a bigger say and local authority planning rules relaxed to allow greater flexibility to suit individual villages

Date

We must stop louts spoiling our riverside

DRUNKEN louts are jeopardising Stourport-on-Severn's reputation as a tourist destination by vandalising the town and daubing it in graffiti. Fed-up residents are organising a petition demanding action to tackle anti-social behaviour and a councillor

Date

Why I'm telling of my drug torment

TWO former drug addicts are using their experiences to help current users seek treatment and take a responsible approach to drug-taking. Gavin Warrington was addicted to heroin for 10 years and admits that during that time his main concern was where

Date

Shake-up schools to get mobile buildings

MOBILE classrooms are to be installed at 11 Wyre Forest schools if Worcestershire County Council chiefs get their way. Temporary permission will be sought for the buildings when the county council's planning and regulatory committee meets on Monday.

Date

No one wanted to know about the Kestrel's death

A WOMAN has hit out at authorities for refusing to take responsibility over the disposal and investigation into the death of a kestrel which fell into her garden while she was gardening. Sandra Birch, from Warndon Villages, Worcester, said the dead

Date

We're bouncing to new world record

THE University of Worcester trampoline squad will be taking part in a gruelling 24-hour charity `bounceathon', and aiming for a new world record in the process. The challenge, in aid of Leukaemia Care and the Dyspraxia Foundation, will involve the 11

Date

Scrabble needs loving new home

SCRABBLE is a very special ferret looking for someone to give him a loving new home. The male ferret is the 300th ferret to be rescued by Droitwich Ferret Welfare, the first UK charity to specialise in the animals. The charity was set up by Anne Robinson

Date

After 30 years looking like this, old Pickfords site will get posh flats

A CITY centre site that has stood derelict and abandoned for more than 30 years is now being transformed into a luxury apartment block. Fifteen apartments, including a penthouse with views across the city to the Malvern Hills, began to take shape this

Date

Sunshine and palm trees as another Spring show begins

GLORIOUS sunshine ensured the 21st Malvern Spring Gardening Show got off to a bright start yesterday. The Three Counties Showground event - which has been extended by half a day this year to cope with demand - is dubbed spring's most spectacular show

Date

Dentist declined to treat our girl who was in agony

ANGRY parents have spoken out after a dentist allegedly refused to treat their distressed six-year-old daughter. Jodi Murphy had complained of some pain in her top teeth, but when she woke in agony her parents Paul and Sue made an emergency appointment

Date

I was in bed, then police stormed in

AN animal rights campaigner has spoken of her shock after police smashed through her door and arrested her. Pauline Burgess, of Malvern Link, said she was lying in bed on Tuesday when she was startled by a loud bang. "I was in bed and heard a crash

Date

JOGGER TRIED TO SNATCH MY KIDS

A FATHER fears his children were in danger of being kidnapped and killed after a mystery jogger twice tried to snatch them. Robert Smith, of Spetchley Road, is distraught after a man tried to abduct his children while they were delivering newspapers

Date

Big new Tesco will look like a factory, say critics

PEOPLE living close to Tesco in Warndon Villages say designs for an expanded store look more like a factory and would be an eyesore. The supermarket's clock tower would be demolished to make way for a flat-roofed, glass-fronted building which critics

Date

Hunt reveals his Robins aim

NEIL Hunt is confident of guiding home-town club Evesham United back into the Southern League Premier Division. Hunt, 35, has taken over the assistant managerial reigns with the Robins, just two weeks after resigning as Malvern Town boss. Although

Date

Malvern win promotion after league shake-up

CHAIRMAN Paul Pallett spoke of his delight following Malvern Town's elevation to the new Southern League Division One Midlands. Managerless Town faced an anxious wait on their future after finishing third in the Midland Alliance last season. But they

Date

Worcester Ladies on glory trail

WORCESTER Ladies RFC are going for glory in three national cup finals at Broadstreet RFC on Sunday. Top of the agenda will be victory in the final of the Rugby World National Cup where they take on fellow Premiership side Richmond -- a team that can

Date

Bulls take giant step in play-offs

A WONDER strike by Guy Ipoua in the second period of extra-time last night sent ecstatic Hereford through to the Nationwide Conference play-off finals. Ipoua's goal settled a pulsating tie in which the Bulls had led twice through Tamika Mkandawire and

Date

Harkness agrees to Harriers deal

JONNY Harkness has followed Michael McGrath in staying at Kidderminster Harriers for the next 12 months. The left-back, who scored a goal and provided a string of assists with deadly set-pieces, has signed a new Harriers deal. Harkness, 20, joined

Date

Garvey wings in to pep Warriors

WARRIORS have made a sensational swoop for Gloucester speedster Marcel Garvey. The highly-rated wing has agreed a two-year deal at Sixways and will link up again with John Brain -- the man who gave him his big break as a schoolboy. Garvey was frozen

Date

Derbys wrestle control of clash

VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years. But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command. After dismissing the County

Date

Bickerton at two over

DROITWICH'S John Bickerton faces a battle to beat the cut today in the Quinn British Masters at The Belfry. His two-over-par 74 in yesterday's first round left him tied for 105th place along with Hereford's David Park. Bickerton started badly and

Date

CALLOW END AND POWICK Correspondent: Mrs M Allsopp Tel: 01905 830746

CONGRATULATIONS to the football team from Callow End Primary School who won the Malvern and District small schools' tournament. The event was held at The Chase in Malvern and the team beat five other schools without conceding a goal to win the trophy

Date

CASTLEMORTON Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

CASTLEMORTON Gardening Club meets at the parish hall on Thursday, May 18 at 7.30pm for its annual meeting, followed by a talk at 7.45pm on Persian and Islamic gardens by Nathalie Mignotte. Non-members welcome.

Date

COLWALL Correspondent: Mrs P Hockett Tel: 01684 564872

THE Wyche Free Church extend an invitation to join their Jubilee 150th anniversary celebrations tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday. At 3.30pm on Saturday, there will be a service with The Rev. Richard Underwood from Market Harborough (formerly from Soham)

Date

Cradley Correspondent: N G Holden

The 1st Cradley Scouts will be holding a fundraising flea market, raffle and tombola on Saturday May 20, 2pm-4pm. Donations are welcome, call 01886 880686 or 638. Tuesday will see an orchid walk with lunch in aid of Cradley WI. The walk will be at 10am

Date

STAUNTON Correspondent: Mrs U Groves Smith Tel: 01452 840273

During the next two weeks, ladies of St James' Church will be preparing it for the flower festival, Floral Rhapsody, from May 27-29, starting with a preview evening with wine and cheese. All proceeds are for church funds. Staunton Parish Church was filled

Date

Welland Correspondent: Stephen Try Tel: 01684 310068

Gardeners' Question Time is being held in, and proceeds go to, St James' Church, Welland on Friday, May 19 at 7.30pm. It features BBC Hereford and Worcester's Mike George and gardening guru Reg Moule. Tickets are £6 each (£5 concs) and include light refreshments

Date

West Malvern Correspondent: Colin Jackson Tel: 01684 577604

Increased police cover is in prospect for West Malvern following recent changes announced by the Government, the parish council heard at its meeting on Monday. WPC Wendy Saunders, our popular and visible beat manager for the past three years, has been

Date

We went under the razor to raise funds

Three Worcester women have had their heads shaved for charity. Mother and daughter Jill Reynolds and Melanie Stocker went for the chop in aid of Worcestershire Royal Hospital's breast cancer unit after friend Carol Denslow was diagnosed with the condition

Date

ROUND-UP: SINGING CHEFS WILL TAKE YOU TO ANCIENT EGYPT

l THE all-singing, all-dancing Singing Sous'Chefs will again be bringing their entertaining show to Worcestershire next month with a two-date gig in Malvern. The trio - Adrian Mealing from Colwall, Leominster-based stonemason Jim Howden and Bransford-based

Date

Big names at festival on town's racecourse

MERCURY Music Prize nominees and World Music award winners are set to be among the line-up of this year's Wychwood Music Festival, taking place next month. The event, being held over the weekend of Friday, June 2 to Sunday, June 4, is now in its second

Date

Manchester calling for every Clash fan

OVER the years they have bashed out the hits of their idols The Clash - and now one band is set to take the stage at a major gig in memory of its lead singer Joe Strummer. Worcester-based Clash tribute act Take The Fifth are one of nearly 30 acts who

Date

Your chance to pull on oars

Upton Rowing Club is staging a special event for pubs, clubs and firms as part of this year's regatta. Teams will compete in a beginners' crew-of-four tournament on Sunday, July 30. The races will be on a 500-metre downstream course, finishing by the

Date

Shake it up

IT'S girls only for a fun evening of belly dancing on Thursday (May 18), organised by the Friends of Upton Primary School. Agarma Tan will lead the dance workshop at the school from 6.45pm to 8pm. Comfortable, loose clothing is advised. Entry is £5 for

Date

Meal fundraiser

A Bangladeshi meal at Pundits on Old Street, Upton, on Sunday (May 14) will raise funds for Upton Parish Church. Places can be booked for 12.30pm, 6pm or 8pm. The meal will cost £10 per person, with drinks and sundries extra. To book, call 01684 594017

Date

Our future looks bleak

With reference to the North Site development, it is inevitable there will be substantial additional traffic problems to those that already exist. I attended the MHDC planning meeting held on April 27 and heard one councillor express this issue as trying

Date

Get a grip

I WRITE with reference to the article (Malvern Gazette, April 28) about Mr McCarthy complaining about the jets. How pathetic of him to expect compensation from the MOD. Get a grip Mr McCarthy, they are doing a job which could one day save your life. Why

Date

Generous gift

I agree with everything that has been written in favour of continuing to use the existing Malvern Hospital building and site. This hospital was a very generous gift from C W Dyson Perrins to the citizens of Malvern in 1911. As such, surely that is what

Date

Best option

I have been following the ever-increasing emotive comments in the press regarding Malvern Hills District Council's decision to close some public toilets. In reality the great majority of public conveniences were built decades ago and are ill-equipped

Date

Angels of mercy

ON Thursday, April 27, outside the garage opposite the Co-op at Malvern Link, I had a very bad fall, straight on to my face, blood everywhere! Two schoolboys helped me to my feet and took me into the garage, waiting until I was seen by the cashier, then

Date

Water firm's bird flu flap

STARTLED hotel owners have been told that the flap over bird flu stopped their water meter being read. The rail network coined 'leaves on the line' but Severn Trent can claim credit for 'a bird on the box' in the distinguished list of excuses for not

Date

Rewarding time

The last 26 years of my life here in Malvern have been most rewarding and stimulating. Since founding the ESO in 1980 the people of the area have been incredibly supportive, for which I give my heartfelt thanks and appreciation - the venture would not

Date

Jacqui made chief whip in Cabinet reshuffle

THE father of Labour's new chief whip says he is "tremendously proud" of his daughter, who grew up in Malvern. Prime Minister Tony Blair appointed Redditch MP Jacqui Smith to the post in last week's cabinet reshuffle. Ms Smith is a former pupil at Malvern

Date

French honour Luis for wartime exploits

A VETERAN from Stoke Lacey has received a top medal for his service in Operation Chariot in the Second World War. L/Cpl Luis (Eric) de la Torre MBE was awarded the Chevalier de la Lgion d'Honneur, France's highest decoration, at the French Embassy in

Date

Youth awards marred by dispute over prize

A SPIRALLING row has marred the presentation of Ledbury's youth awards and already led to one resignation from the town council. Tony Bradford, a town councillor and father of one of the three award-winners, has handed his son's £100 cheque back. He said

Date

Young writers find the winning words

TALENTED young writers received awards from Malvern Writers' Circle this week for their entries in its annual competition. The event, hosted by St James's School on Friday, May 5, was a chance for students, parents, and sponsors to hear some of the award-winning

Date

Derbys wrestle control of clash

VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years. But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command. After dismissing the County

Date

Speed fear in village

CRADLEY Parish Council says Herefordshire Council should be held responsible if there is a fatality on the village's roads. The criticism came at a meeting on Tuesday when parish councillors discussed speeding in the village. Members heard that Herefordshire

Date

Bickerton at two over

DROITWICH'S John Bickerton faces a battle to beat the cut today in the Quinn British Masters at The Belfry. His two-over-par 74 in yesterday's first round left him tied for 105th place along with Hereford's David Park. Bickerton started badly and had

Date

Double delight for lucky school

THERE was a double celebration at Powick CE Primary this week after a pupil won £10,000 of sports equipment and Ofsted inspectors praised the school. Headteacher Richard Drewett and his staff are busy deciding how to spend the Sainsbury's Active Kids

Date

Howard wins 'Oscar' with radio series

A RADIO series about mental illness produced by a Malvern man has scooped gold at the Sony Radio Academy Awards. Howard Belgard also co-wrote a play for Hearing Voices, a weeklong BBC Hereford and Worcester series created to raise awareness of mental

Date

New festival will bear fruit for hall fund

ORGANISERS of a new event being held for the first time this weekend hope it will become an annual attraction. Bosbury's first cider and blossom festival will offer visitors the chance to taste a variety of ciders and stroll through the blossom-filled

Date

Glamour pair in spotlight

THE tables turned for two beauty therapy students from Malvern Hills College who made it through to the finals of this year's Miss Worcestershire competition. Laura Collins and Melissa Hay, who are more used to beautifying clients than being pampered

Date

Worcester Ladies on glory trail

WORCESTER Ladies RFC are going for glory in three national cup finals at Broadstreet RFC on Sunday. Top of the agenda will be victory in the final of the Rugby World National Cup where they take on fellow Premiership side Richmond -- a team that can boast

Date

12/5/06 - Ledbury swimmers chase district and national qualifying times

LEDBURY swimmers spent a tough weekend competing in an open meet held in the 50m pool in Coventry in a last-ditch attempt to achieve their district qualifying times before the May 8 deadline. Already having district times in nine events, David Middleton

Date

12/5/06 - Nine under par at Sapey

NINE players completed the Direct Lines Stableford competition at Sapey Golf Club in rounds of under-par on Saturday. The clear winner with 42 points was Jeremy Holt (18 handicap), in second place on countback was Gerald Bailey (14) with Tony Gibbon (

Date

12/5/06 - Fixtures

SATURDAY FOOTBALL WORCESTER & DISTRICT LEAGUE Premier Division: Hanley Swan v Powick. MERCIAN FESTIVAL JUNIOR LEAGUE U10s: Oldbury Park Juniors v Newtown Sports Juniors. U14s girls: Ferndale Flyers v Newtown Sports. CRICKET CRUSADER WORCESTERSHIRE

Date

12/5/06 - Pirates offered chance to step up

MALVERN U17 Pirates celebrated the end of the final season as youth rugby players with a special presentation dinner at the Fox and Hounds Inn at Lulsely. Joining the 25-strong playing squad for a meal were special guests Matt Sherratt (Worcester Warriors

Date

12/5/06 - Angels return with the silver

MALVERN Angels began the wind- down of the 2006 season by competing in the Old Eds (Nuneaton) annual Tens tournament and brought home the Plate for the second year running. The loss of three players during the tournament with injury was unfortunate and

Date

JOGGER TRIED TO SNATCH MY KIDS

A FATHER fears his children were in danger of being kidnapped and killed after a mystery jogger twice tried to snatch them. Robert Smith, of Spetchley Road, is distraught after a man tried to abduct his children while they were delivering newspapers around

Date

Dentist declined to treat our girl who was in agony

ANGRY parents have spoken out after a dentist allegedly refused to treat their distressed six-year-old daughter. Jodi Murphy had complained of some pain in her top teeth, but when she woke in agony her parents Paul and Sue made an emergency appointment

Date

Sunshine and palm trees as another Spring show begins

GLORIOUS sunshine ensured the 21st Malvern Spring Gardening Show got off to a bright start yesterday. The Three Counties Showground event - which has been extended by half a day this year to cope with demand - is dubbed spring's most spectacular show

Date

After 30 years looking like this, old Pickfords site will get posh flats

A CITY centre site that has stood derelict and abandoned for more than 30 years is now being transformed into a luxury apartment block. Fifteen apartments, including a penthouse with views across the city to the Malvern Hills, began to take shape this

Date

Plea for a home and wages link

AFFORDABLE housing in rural areas should be linked to local wages, according to a report published this week. Parish councils should have a bigger say and local authority planning rules relaxed to allow greater flexibility to suit individual villages

Date

New sight on the river

AS its predecessor rusts in the Diglis Basin, the Earl sets sail on the Severn. The boat is the latest addition to the fleet operated by River Severn Cruises. Managing director Chris Winwood said that it had an interesting history. "Built in 1923 in Portland

Date

12/5/06 - Harkness agrees to Harriers deal

JONNY Harkness has followed Michael McGrath in staying at Kidderminster Harriers for the next 12 months. The left-back, who scored a goal and provided a string of assists with deadly set-pieces, has signed a new Harriers deal. Harkness, 20, joined from

Date

Finest music is offered for free

AUDIENCES can see Birmingham Contemporary Music Group perform at Ledbury's John Masefield High School for free on Sunday, May 28, at 7.30pm. The school is hosting the acclaimed group of musicians for the second year, in a touring performance which won

Date

12/5/06 - Cup final game before championship decider

THE next two weeks see the soccersite.co.uk Malvern League sides Cross Keys and Oak Allstars meet twice in vital games. The first is the final of the inaugural Norman Simmons Senior Cup on Sunday and then the following Sunday at Victoria Park sees a game

Date

12/5/06 - Rangers on the brink

MALVERN Rangers went to Wolverhampton on Saturday for their last West Midlands division one fixture and not for the first time travelled with just 11 players. WOLVERHAMPTON UTD 3, MALVERN RANGERS 2 Andy Fletcher, who was nursing an injury, was forced

Date

12/5/06 - Mercian League meeting cancelled

THE Mercian Festival Junior Football League meeting scheduled for Sunday (May 14) has been cancelled. Registration forms for next season should be forwarded to the treasurer as soon as possible. New clubs are welcome for next season, which sees the league

Date

12/5/06 - Town retain Infirmary Cup

MALVERN Town retained the Worcester Infirmary Senior Cup for a further season as they triumphed 3-1 against Pershore Town at Delehay Meadow on Tuesday. MALVERN TOWN 3, PERSHORE TOWN 1 Both teams took a little while to get into their stride but it was

Date

12/5/06 - Malvern end on a victory

THE MRFC President's XV who played against local rivals from the University featured some of the 'Young Guns' who have emerged through the Malvern Youth Development set-up and are on the verge of the senior squad. MALVERN 19PTS, UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER

Date

12/5/06 - Malvern race to highest total

MALVERN CC first XI travelled to Harborne on Saturday and came away with a winning draw after registering their highest ever league score. HARBORNE v MALVERN Malvern skipper Luke Halion lost the toss and was invited to bat. David Cox looked in fine form

Date

12/5/06 - McCard smashes 172no

BARNARDS Green's Australian fast bowler Rob McCard was also a big hit with the bat on Sunday and plundered a rapid 172no from just 88 balls. Starting their Sunday Club League campaign against Worcester CC, the North End Lane side took a mixture of youth

Date

12/5/06 - Nine-wicket haul for de Boer

WORCESTER Nomads 1st XI entertained Lye in their second Worcestershire Cricket League division two fixture. After winning the toss and asking Lye to bat on another hard, flat Bransford wicket, Nomads were given a disappointing start with some wayward

Date

12/5/06 - Green march on in cup

BARNARDS Green fourths visited Droitwich in this cup match and were put into bat on a damp, unpredictable wicket. DROITWICH SPA v BARNARDS GREEN IV Green posted a respectable score of 227-4 with veteran Dick Brown (93) top scoring and unlucky to fall

Date

12/5/06 - West edge out Enville

WEST Malvern won the toss and elected to bat on an artificial wicket that proved to be quick and true. Steve Wright (22) and Tony Williams (11) both escaped early chances and put on 35 for the first wicket in ten overs. Mark Groves made a circumspect

Date

12/5/06 - Holland is destroyer

COLWALL travelled to Knighton in Wales for their first Herefordshire League division three match of the season. Losing the toss and asked to bat on an uneven wicket, Colwall's openers, Adrian Berry and Nils Purser, compiled a patient 68 before Purser

Date

Scientist ushered in the digital era

THE life and work of one of the most brilliant - and unusual - scientists of the 20th Century was commemorated at a lecture this week. Alec Reeves worked at the Telecommunications Research Establishment, Malvern, during the Second World War, where he

Date

Cinemas

Malvern Cinema: Rent (PG) Fri-Sun 7.15pm, Mats Sat & Sun 4pm. The Squid & the Whale (15) Mon-Thurs 7.30pm. Odeon Worcester: Mission Impossible 3 (12A) 2.10, 3.10, 4.50, 5.50, 7.25, 8.35, Sat/Sun 12.30; Late night first screening - The Da Vinci

Date

These pirates are heading this way

PIRATES of the River Severn, a nautical adventure, is set to sail into the county. Gloucestershire-based Fabulous Old Spot Theatre Company is presenting the show at two village locations for Shindig - Worcestershire's Rural and Community Touring Scheme

Date

A day for children at the sea

IF you do like to be beside the seaside a children's theatre production in Droitwich could be just for you. The Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, is hosting I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside, which tells the tale of two theatre cleaners who want a holiday

Date

Arabian classic is told in French

A FANCIFUL story of sorcerers, jewels and genies is set to be vividly performed for youngsters in simple French at The Courtyard, Hereford. The unique and educational performance by Thtre Sans Frontires tells the tale of a young tearaway called Aladin

Date

You can learn to be a star

COUNTY youngsters are being given the chance to tread the same boards as hundreds of stars of both stage and screen. Malvern Theatres has a limited number of places on a special theatre performance course that aims to equip budding thespians with the

Date

Abbey Stadium scheme rejected

REDDITCH Council's ambitious plans for the Abbey Stadium have been turned down. The proposed leisure complex, which was to include a multi-screen cinema and sports centre as well as cafes and restaurants, was hoped to make Redditch a focal point for the

Date

Tragic tale packed full of intrigue

THE court intrigues of one of Britain's most famous monarchs will be brought to the stage by Ledbury Amateur Dramatic Society. Its latest production is Katherine Howard, by William Nicholson, one of the UK's most distinguished writers for stage and screen

Date

'Perfick' play just rolls along

The Darling Buds of May will be bought to the stage at Conquest Theatre in Bromyard. The play, which runs from Wednesday to Saturday, May 17-20, comes from the books by H E Bates about the irrepressible and amoral Larkin family. The stories also spawned

Date

Comedy has serious side

MALVERN Wells Players are staging a hilarious play set in the world of adult literacy classes. Groping For Words was written by Sue Townsend, creator of the classic Adrian Mole series and the highly-acclaimed The Queen and I. The play is set in the Thatcher

Date

This is a case of the wrong Liz

SIR - Before the correspondence regarding the county council's recent report on public transport goes any further, I'd like to point out - for the sake of clarity - that the scrutiny task force that produced it was in fact chaired by Liz Tucker, the Lib

Date

Parking charges

SIR - Regarding George Cowley's letter about the council trying to balance the books with car parking charges, councillors have put the charges so high that it drives out shoppers. JOHN SHEARON, Worcester.

Date

12/5/06 - Malvern end on a victory

THE MRFC President's XV who played against local rivals from the University featured some of the 'Young Guns' who have emerged through the Malvern Youth Development set-up and are on the verge of the senior squad. MALVERN 19PTS, UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER

Date

What is happening to this country?

SIR - Not so long ago this nation was told by the politicians of all three main parties that unless appropriate and substantial rewards were made for their services, people with the required abilities and of appropriate bearing would never be attracted

Date

Stay vigilant but remain calm, too

IT'S every parent's nightmare. Despite the vigilance, warnings and constant assessments of risk and probability, all mums and dads know in their hearts that there is no complete defence against the neighbourhood pervert. It is impossible to tell whether

Date

12/5/06 - Worcester Ladies on glory trail

WORCESTER Ladies RFC are going for glory in three national cup finals at Broadstreet RFC on Sunday. Top of the agenda will be victory in the final of the Rugby World National Cup where they take on fellow Premiership side Richmond -- a team that can boast

Date

LEE

LEE Olive Mary Treasured memories of a beloved wife, mother and grandmother who passed away May 12th, 2005. In our thoughts everyday, in our hearts forever. Love John, Vannessa, Martin and Dennis, Austin, Gill and Jade. Published in paper 12/05/2006

Date

HODGES

HODGES David Thinking of my precious husband who passed away seven years today. A very loving Dad and Grandad, Helen, Tony, Pam, Graham, Gill, Alan and families. Published in paper 12/05/2006

Date

WRIGHT

WRIGHT Kathleen nee Warder Died in hospital on Tuesday, May 9th, 2006, aged 90 years. Funeral Service will take place at St Georges C of E Church Barbourne on Thursday, May 18th at 12 noon, followed by cremation. Family flowers only please, donations

Date

WESTON

WESTON Ivor Ex Metal Box and Ronkswood Newsagent. Passed away suddenly but peacefully on Monday, May 8th at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, aged 68 years surrounded by his family. Much loved father to Sally and Stuart, father in law to Wayne and Abi and

Date

ROUND-UP: SINGING CHEFS WILL TAKE YOU TO ANCIENT EGYPT

l THE all-singing, all-dancing Singing Sous'Chefs will again be bringing their entertaining show to Worcestershire next month with a two-date gig in Malvern. The trio - Adrian Mealing from Colwall, Leominster-based stonemason Jim Howden and Bransford-based

Date

Big names at festival on town's racecourse

MERCURY Music Prize nominees and World Music award winners are set to be among the line-up of this year's Wychwood Music Festival, taking place next month. The event, being held over the weekend of Friday, June 2 to Sunday, June 4, is now in its second

Date

Manchester calling for every Clash fan

OVER the years they have bashed out the hits of their idols The Clash - and now one band is set to take the stage at a major gig in memory of its lead singer Joe Strummer. Worcester-based Clash tribute act Take The Fifth are one of nearly 30 acts who

Date

Festen n Review: Malvern Theatres

THE darkest of black comedies, Festen is a risk that pays off for Malvern Theatres. Although it explores themes of incest, racism and suicide, the play is interesting and comic. The funniest moments come when dinner party airs and graces are contrasted

Date

Nash Ensemble n Review: Malvern Concert Club

MCC'S 103rd season ended with a splendid concert featuring Schubert's Octet in F and Beethoven's Septet in E flat. Schubert had used the earlier work as a model and similarities in format were apparent. The fine instrumental ensemble consisted of two

Date

Cinemas

Malvern Cinema: Rent (PG) Fri-Sun 7.15pm, Mats Sat & Sun 4pm. The Squid & the Whale (15) Mon-Thurs 7.30pm. Odeon Worcester: Mission Impossible 3 (12A) 2.10, 3.10, 4.50, 5.50, 7.25, 8.35, Sat/Sun 12.30; Late night first screening - The Da Vinci

Date

A day for children at the sea

IF you do like to be beside the seaside a children's theatre production in Droitwich could be just for you. The Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, is hosting I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside, which tells the tale of two theatre cleaners who want a holiday

Date

Arabian classic is told in French

A FANCIFUL story of sorcerers, jewels and genies is set to be vividly performed for youngsters in simple French at The Courtyard, Hereford. The unique and educational performance by Thtre Sans Frontires tells the tale of a young tearaway called Aladin

Date

GIG GUIDE

tonight Fairport Convention - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Taxi with support from Shawn Jones - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint Street, Worcester Blind Lemon - Drummond's Bar, New Street, Worcester Highway 5 - The Paul Pry, The Butts, Worcester Torque - Riverside

Date

THEATRE

UNTIL MAY 13 Festen Rufus Norris's brilliant, shattering production at Malvern Theatres. MAY 15-20 Billy Liar The Comedy by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall at Malvern Theatres. The Safari Party Starring Christopher Timothy, Sara Crowe and Jack Ryder

Date

Comedy has serious side

MALVERN Wells Players are staging a hilarious play set in the world of adult literacy classes. Groping For Words was written by Sue Townsend, creator of the classic Adrian Mole series and the highly-acclaimed The Queen and I. The play is set in the Thatcher

Date

BERROW Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

FINAL jumble sale until September 9 but this still didn't deter the faithful followers of Janet's efforts who once again supported wholeheartedly last Saturday's event, which netted £276 for village hall funds. Thank you to all contributors and helpers

Date

BOSBURY Correspondent: Mrs R Krinks Tel: 01531 640076

AT the annual parish meeting, the new chairman of the parish council, Gerald Blandford, paid tribute to the hard work and excellent stewardship of his predecessor, David West. Councillors also paid tribute to the late Mike Martin whose local knowledge

Date

CORSE Correspondent: Mrs U Groves Smith Tel: 01452 840273

THE United Benefice of Hartpury, Corse, Staunton and Maisemore, together with Hartpury Methodist Church, held a service at St Margaret's Church, Corse. It was conducted by Canon John Evans and The Rev. Penny Hamer, with some members from all the churches

Date

HOLLYBUSH Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

A VERY happy and successful plant sale at Hollybush Church Rooms last Saturday, £347 being raised by the sale of plants and cakes. Thank you to our very loyal supporters for making this such a profitable occasion. Please remember to make a note in your

Date

MALVERN WELLS Correspondent: Mrs V Greaves Tel: 01684 566860

Groping for Words, by Sue Townsend, is presented by the Wells Players on May 18-20 at 7.30pm. The cast is Mandy Shrimpton as Joyce Chalmers, the teacher, Evan Peach as the caretaker and Paul Allsop and Helen Reade as pupils. This is a play about adults

Date

12/5/06 - Warriors heading in the right direction

AS the dust settles on another season at Sixways, it is worth examining how far Worcester have come since last summer. The bare statistics are not especially flattering. The club had exactly the same amount of Premiership wins as they did in the last

Date

He'll blow you away

ONE of the country's top saxophonists and flautists is set to show off his talents in Worcester this month with a gig at the city's Huntingdon Hall. Snake Davis has worked with a wealth of musicians over the years including everyone from M People and

Date

Festen n Review: Malvern Theatres

THE darkest of black comedies, Festen is a risk that pays off for Malvern Theatres. Although it explores themes of incest, racism and suicide, the play is interesting and comic. The funniest moments come when dinner party airs and graces are contrasted

Date

Nash Ensemble n Review: Malvern Concert Club

MCC'S 103rd season ended with a splendid concert featuring Schubert's Octet in F and Beethoven's Septet in E flat. Schubert had used the earlier work as a model and similarities in format were apparent. The fine instrumental ensemble consisted of two

Date

Traders out to beat crime

CRIMINALS may think twice before targeting Upton businesses following the relaunch this week of the town's Shopwatch scheme. Staff at 57 businesses are now on the lookout for trouble and will alert each other through a pre-arranged system of telephone

Date

'Metropolis'welcomes new rector

UPTON is a metropolis for its new rector, who comes to the town from rural Cumbria. The Rev. Jeff Radcliffe previously covered three parishes with a total area of 100 square miles and a population of just 1,500 adults. "That's really, really rural,"he

Date

Bands in line for jazz event

UPTON Jazz Festival has released details of its line-up this year. Bands visiting the festival for the first time next month include The Big Chris Barber Band, George Melly and Digby Fairweather's Half Dozen and the Bourbon Street Stompers from Germany

Date

Charity walk

MACMILLAN Cancer Relief's local fundraising committee is holding a six-mile circular walk around Upton on Saturday, May 20. The easy cross-country route will include a couple of pub stops. Walkers can make a donation to take part on the day. Meet in the

Date

In the frame

Another 'Faces of Upton' photograph session takes place at the Baptist Hall tomorrow (Saturday), from 9.30am to 1pm. It costs £1 to have your picture taken for the 2007 calendar to raise money the County Air Ambulance. Local business people can have their

Date

Contact Chris

UPTON Rugby Club president Chris Carkeek has changed his email address. Parents of prospective junior section players can now contact him at chris@c3-consulting. co.uk.

Date

Club plays host

Upton Garden Club will host a coffee morning and plant sale at the Memorial Hall tomorrow (Saturday), from 10am to 11.30am.

Date

Is this the image we want?

THE affair of the Bromyard golliwogs is, of course, hugely amusing and political correctness is an easy and popular target. In Bromyard, for some, the attitudes and symbols of a long-lost empire combine with a narrowness of vision and a determination

Date

Double standard

Residents asked that the toilets should remain open, but Malvern Hills District Council boarded them up anyway. So parts of our towns will look a mess throughout the tourist season. The council is giving £10,000 to the Elgar Festival. I am delighted the

Date

Costly experiment

I ATTENDED the meeting on April 28 at which the Environment Agency announced to some residents of Upton what flood defence system it intends to experiment with, and to which Malvern Hills District Council was reported to be contributing £10,000. The actual

Date

It's a show to be proud of, says TV's Monty

CELEBRITY gardener Monty Don officially opened Malvern Spring Gardening Show yesterday (Thursday). Mr Don said that, as a schoolboy, his trips to the Three Counties Showground were magical and he has been coming back ever since. "This is my local show

Date

Police hail guilty verdict on rapist

A police officer who led the investigation into a 34-year-old Malvern man found guilty of raping a girl of 15 said she was delighted by the verdict. Robert Stinton, of Elgar Avenue, denied carrying out the attack in a field near Malvern on September 23

Date

Mast victory for phone firm

A PLAN for a 40ft phone mast that was thrown out last year has been allowed on appeal. Residents at a Malvern Hills planning meeting last November applauded when councillors refused to allow the mast to be erected behind Bicknell's Garage, Pickersleigh

Date

Book deal is signed after 120 rejections

MALVERN writer David Bilsborough has been penning stories since he was a schoolboy, but has just signed a deal with top publisher for his first book. The 42-year-old's fantasy novel, currently titled The Wanderer: The Last Journey of Bolldh, is scheduled

Date

Trust seeks partner for hospital project

A NEW hospital for Malvern came a step closer to reality this week. South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust was given permission to look for a partner for the project. The decision was taken by West Midland South Strategic Health Authority at its meeting

Date

Switch to short day is likely

Parents at The Chase are due to hear within days if the school is moving to new hours. Headteacher Kevin Peck wants the school day to end at 3pm instead of 3.50pm. He put the case for the alteration before school governors at a meeting on Tuesday. Afterwards

Date

Opinion

IT'S been a while since I was at school and I have no idea how today's teenagers like to spend their lunch hour, but I remember how important that time was to me. If I were a parent with a child at The Chase, I would be very concerned by the proposal

Date

Garvey wings in to pep Warriors

WARRIORS have made a sensational swoop for Gloucester speedster Marcel Garvey. The highly-rated wing has agreed a two-year deal at Sixways and will link up again with John Brain -- the man who gave him his big break as a schoolboy. Garvey was frozen out

Date

Threat perceived to Chartist settlement

COUNCILLORS are to visit the site of a controversial planning application in Staunton. Redcliffe Homes, of Chipping Sodbury, wants to put 24 houses on a one-hectare field off Chartist Way. The plan also includes a 3,000-square metre open space and playing

Date

12/5/06 - Samurai show class in sevens

LEDBURY RFC's inaugural sevens tournament last Sunday exceeded all expectations, the standard of rugby was first class and the level of competitiveness for the £5,000 top prize was very much in evidence. Spectators basked in Mediterranean conditions whilst

Date

Bulls take giant step in play-offs

A WONDER strike by Guy Ipoua in the second period of extra-time last night sent ecstatic Hereford through to the Nationwide Conference play-off finals. Ipoua's goal settled a pulsating tie in which the Bulls had led twice through Tamika Mkandawire and

Date

Harkness agrees to Harriers deal

JONNY Harkness has followed Michael McGrath in staying at Kidderminster Harriers for the next 12 months. The left-back, who scored a goal and provided a string of assists with deadly set-pieces, has signed a new Harriers deal. Harkness, 20, joined from

Date

Malvern win promotion after league shake-up

CHAIRMAN Paul Pallett spoke of his delight following Malvern Town's elevation to the new Southern League Division One Midlands. Managerless Town faced an anxious wait on their future after finishing third in the Midland Alliance last season. But they

Date

Hunt reveals his Robins aim

NEIL Hunt is confident of guiding home-town club Evesham United back into the Southern League Premier Division. Hunt, 35, has taken over the assistant managerial reigns with the Robins, just two weeks after resigning as Malvern Town boss. Although the

Date

12/5/06 - Derbys wrestle control of clash

VIKRAM Solanki yesterday cracked his first Championship century in almost two years. But a superb captain's knock of 110 -- in a one-day style with 96 runs from boundaries -- was not enough to put Worcestershire in command. After dismissing the County

Date

12/5/06 - Cathy Harris wins county title

THE Worcestershire and Herefordshire Lady Veteran Golfers' Association (WHLVGA) held their spring meeting and championship qualifier at The Vale Golf Club. The Worcestershire Golf Club was well represented in the results. The best gross and best nett

Date

12/5/06 - Second century at Shelsley

AUGUST 2005 produced the sensational and highly successful celebration of 100 years at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb, the oldest racing track in the world. This weekend sees the first competitive meeting in 2006, the second century of racing at Shelsley Walsh

Date

12/5/06 - Wood wins

TIM Wood, owner of the Echelon Cycle shop in Pershore, showed the rest of the field a clean pair of wheels in last week's Velo Club Sevale 10-mile time trial. His winning time of 22min 27secs was over a minute faster than club member Will Davies. The

Date

12/5/06 - Rose in glory bid

THE Worcestershire Golf Club amateur James Rose and his club's PGA professional Richard Lewis are chasing golfing glory in Europe's biggest pro-am competition, the Lombard Trophy. The pair tee up in the regional final on June 28 at Frilford Heath Golf

Date

I was in bed, then police stormed in

AN animal rights campaigner has spoken of her shock after police smashed through her door and arrested her. Pauline Burgess, of Malvern Link, said she was lying in bed on Tuesday when she was startled by a loud bang. "I was in bed and heard a crash and

Date

Big new Tesco will look like a factory, say critics

PEOPLE living close to Tesco in Warndon Villages say designs for an expanded store look more like a factory and would be an eyesore. The supermarket's clock tower would be demolished to make way for a flat-roofed, glass-fronted building which critics

Date

We're bouncing to new world record

THE University of Worcester trampoline squad will be taking part in a gruelling 24-hour charity 'bounceathon', and aiming for a new world record in the process. The challenge, in aid of Leukaemia Care and the Dyspraxia Foundation, will involve the 11-

Date

No one wanted to know about the Kestrel's death

A WOMAN has hit out at authorities for refusing to take responsibility over the disposal and investigation into the death of a kestrel which fell into her garden while she was gardening. Sandra Birch, from Warndon Villages, Worcester, said the dead bird

Date

Why I'm telling of my drug torment

TWO former drug addicts are using their experiences to help current users seek treatment and take a responsible approach to drug-taking. Gavin Warrington was addicted to heroin for 10 years and admits that during that time his main concern was where to

Date

Shake-up schools to get mobile buildings

MOBILE classrooms are to be installed at 11 Wyre Forest schools if Worcestershire County Council chiefs get their way. Temporary permission will be sought for the buildings when the county council's planning and regulatory committee meets on Monday. The

Date

We must stop louts spoiling our riverside

DRUNKEN louts are jeopardising Stourport-on-Severn's reputation as a tourist destination by vandalising the town and daubing it in graffiti. Fed-up residents are organising a petition demanding action to tackle anti-social behaviour and a councillor is

Date

Scrabble needs loving new home

SCRABBLE is a very special ferret looking for someone to give him a loving new home. The male ferret is the 300th ferret to be rescued by Droitwich Ferret Welfare, the first UK charity to specialise in the animals. The charity was set up by Anne Robinson

Date

Record-breaking year for awards

SIXTY entries have been received for the Chamber Awards 2006 to make it a record-breaking year for the prestigious annual awards scheme. The glitz-and-glamour black-tie awards dinner looks set to be a hotbed of excitement as the names of the winners and

Date

12/5/06 - Norman Simmons trophy

THIS Sunday sees the inaugural final of the Norman Simmons Senior Cup at New Street, Ledbury, courtesy of Ledbury Town FC, kick-off 6.30pm. The trophy is in honour of the late chairman of thesoccersite.co.uk Malvern Football League, Norman Simmons. It

Date

12/5/06 - Powick capture Worcester Sunday division one title

FOLLOWING the Powick Saturday side winning the Martley Cup and finishing runners-up in the Worcester League premier division, the Sunday side completed the hat-trick of silverware. POWICK 4, CLAINES 2 Victory over an experienced Claines side saw Powick

Date

12/5/06 - Radar's run is ended

RADAR'S eight game unbeaten run finally came to an end last Sunday against The Bridge, who deserved the three points. MALVERN RADAR 0, THE BRIDGE 1 The visitors defended well and their passing was a lot slicker than Radar's although the home side almost

Date

12/5/06 - West Malvern falter in second half

WEST Malvern travelled to Worcester division one champions Inkberrow A on Saturday and gave a creditable performance. INKBERROW A 5, WEST MALVERN 2 In an evenly fought first-half, Inkberrow went in front with West Malvern claiming for offside. The linesman

Date

12/5/06 - Wanderers U14s are closing in

MALVERN Town Wanderers U14s are chasing honours in the Mercian Festival Junior League and are just one point adrift of the leaders. Wanderers maintained the pressure following a 6-0 victory at Bromyard on Sunday. Defender Jack Bottomley opened the scoring

Date

12/5/06 - Winners for fourth time

MALVERN Town Wanderers U11s won the Mercian League cup for the fourth time on Sunday with a 1-0 defeat of Oldbury Park Tigers at Langland Stadium. It was the team's third successive mini soccer league and cup double. In their first season, as an underage

Date

12/5/06 - Green spinners nearly grab win

BARNARDS Green played their second match in division one of the Worcestershire County League at North End Lane against Chaddesley Corbett, who are a good yardstick to the strength of the clubs in this division. Chaddesley Corbett won the toss and invited

Date

12/5/06 - Malvern race to highest total

MALVERN CC first XI travelled to Harborne on Saturday and came away with a winning draw after registering their highest ever league score. HARBORNE v MALVERN Malvern skipper Luke Halion lost the toss and was invited to bat. David Cox looked in fine form

Date

12/5/06 - McCard smashes 172no

BARNARDS Green's Australian fast bowler Rob McCard was also a big hit with the bat on Sunday and plundered a rapid 172no from just 88 balls. Starting their Sunday Club League campaign against Worcester CC, the North End Lane side took a mixture of youth

Date

12/5/06 - Colwall cruise to easy victory

ON a day when the threat of rain interruptions seemed all too likely, Colwall were keen to press on for league victory against struggling Birlingham. BIRLINGHAM v COLWALL The home team won the toss and batted on an excellent wicket, full of pace and bounce

Date

12/5/06 - Green II measure up

BARNARDS Green seconds travelled to Chaddesley hoping to measure themselves against a seasoned WCL division one side on Saturday. CHADDESLEY CORBETT II v BARNARDS GREEN II On winning the toss again, Phil Spencer inserted the home side on humid day with

Date

12/5/06 - Visitors are too strong

HANLEY Castle and Upton welcomed the strong Worcester Dominies last Saturday in this WCL division three south clash. Having played in a division above Hanley for the last five years, the Dominies team emphasised their superiority with a fine display of

Date

12/5/06 - Champions start defence

DEFENDING champions Barnards Green thirds opened the 2006 campaign with a comfortable nine-wicket victory over Chainwire. Skipper Ratcliffe invited Chainwire to have first use of the Newland wicket and the early balls showed no signs of things to come

Date

12/5/06 - Cup hope is dashed

COLWALL'S fourth team started their season with a league cup match against Harborne. COLWALL IV v HARBORNE V The Colwall team, which contained four father and child combinations, were pleased with their efforts in the field but disappointed with their

Date

12/5/06 - Teams

BARNARDS GREEN CC Saturday, May 13 1st XI v Bewdley (Away). Meet 11.30am. C Smedley, A Binks, R Williams, K Golder, M Hooper, T Clarke, R McCard, P Drinkwater, T Williams, J Clarke, D Bell, scorer - I Shaw. 2nd XI v Bewdley (Home). Meet 12.30pm. L Paddock

Date

Echoes from the Past

100 years ago Mr W Crump, Madresfield Court Gardens, writes: "The great frost of April 25 and 26 is little short of a national calamity, and a most irreparable and vexatious loss to the fruit growers. All stone fruit, pears, etc, suffered enormously.

Date

Laugh along with Paddy

ANYONE who fancies clowning around at the Swan Theatre in Worcester is invited to join a very special visitor when he drops in. Guaranteeing hilarious, mad mayhem for all the family, Paddy The Clown's award-winning Laughter Show promises to be a hit.

Date

EVENTS

MAY 12 The Birmingham & Midland Society for Genealogy & Heraldry A talk entitled Well Fancy That: Coincidences in Family History, at the Baptist Church Hall, Sansome Walk, Worcester, starting at 7.30pm. International ME Awareness Day At City Centre

Date

EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL MAY 20 New Exhibition of Works Featuring many paintings that have not been on show for a number of years, all based on a local theme. Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester. UNTIL MAY 27 Ceramics Exhibition An exhibition

Date

GIG GUIDE

tonight Fairport Convention - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester Taxi with support from Shawn Jones - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint Street, Worcester Blind Lemon - Drummond's Bar, New Street, Worcester Highway 5 - The Paul Pry, The Butts, Worcester Torque - Riverside

Date

CONCERTS

MAY 12 James Galway and London Mozart Players The world's most famous flautist is appearing at the Forum Theatre, Malvern. Fairport Convention Huntingdon Hall. MAY 13 The Yardbirds Huntingdon Hall. MAY 18 The Fureys and Davey Arthur Huntingdon Hall. MAY

Date

THEATRE

UNTIL MAY 13 Festen Rufus Norris's brilliant, shattering production at Malvern Theatres. MAY 15-20 Billy Liar The Comedy by Keith Waterhouse and Willis Hall at Malvern Theatres. The Safari Party Starring Christopher Timothy, Sara Crowe and Jack Ryder

Date

Teen idol has new passion

JACK Ryder, known to many as teen heart-throb Jamie Mitchell from EastEnders, is on stage in Malvern next week. Jack is appearing in The Safari Party, a comedy from the writer of Calendar Girls. It is a farce full of snobbish social pretensions and reveals

Date

Eggs over candles

SIR - In order to reduce pollution and conserve energy (Mr Reynolds, May 3), I now boil my eggs over a candle. It takes ages. GEORGE COWLEY, Windermere Drive, Worcester

Date

This immoral war

SIR - Are you not sickened when newly-appointed Defence Secretary Des Browne tells us he is "deeply saddened" by the deaths of at least four more British service personnel in Iraq? One hundred and eight have so far been killed in an open-ended and immoral

Date

I will continue to work for my ward

SIR - I would like to thank the people of St John's for re-electing me as their city councillor. To receive so many votes was a very humbling experience. I will continue to work hard for the community, ensuring their voice is heard. SAM ARNOLD, Worcester

Date

Thanks to people of Bedwardine

SIR - May I thank the people of Bedwardine for returning me to Worcester City Council. I am very grateful to have been given their trust to serve the ward for another four years. In return, I pledge to be available to listen to the concerns of the ward

Date

We will serve to best of our ability

SIR - I am very grateful to everyone in Battenhall ward who voted for me in the city elections. There was a turnout of 43.1 per cent, 1,015 people voted for me and a majority of 631 was magnificent. My colleague Councillor Robert Rowden and I will continue

Date

It was Conway, not Nye Bevan

SIR - D E Margrett's letter (May 2) discussing current problems in the NHS comments that "up to 1979, NHS managers were expected to reflect the spirit of Aneurin Bevan's dream." The NHS is merely an extension on a national level of a medical scheme that

Date

Worcester in need of a concert hall

SIR - The announcement of the development in Lowesmoor means more shops for Worcester. No surprise there, then! This council is only capable of building shops and apartments. It has no vision - what we need is a concert hall that will attract top class

Date

What about police and the tax office?

SIR - Cars have been clamped while parked on former Courts car park in Lowesmoor, Worcester. I would ask if Rowencroft Immobilisers is legally clamping these people, or is it just making a fast buck at the expense of the parkers? What is happening to

Date

Clamping saga a case of passing the buck

SIR - The whole episode of Courts car parking is a classic example of passing the buck. The owners don't appear to want to know, it seems. The people leasing it don't know who authorised the clamping. The police say it's not their problem and the planning

Date

What's on

Theatre May Until 13 - Festen at Festival Theatre, Malvern Theatres. 2.30pm & 8pm. £16-£24. Box office (01684) 892277. 15-20 - Billy Liar, Malvern Theatre Players, Coach House Theatre, Malvern. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £8.50 on (01684) 892277. 15-20 -

Date

12/5/06 - Garvey wings in to pep Warriors

WARRIORS have made a sensational swoop for Gloucester speedster Marcel Garvey. The highly-rated wing has agreed a two-year deal at Sixways and will link up again with John Brain -- the man who gave him his big break as a schoolboy. Garvey was frozen out

Date

12/5/06 - The return is a different story

ON Saturday, Malvern travelled to Stafford and despite playing some excellent football got thumped 5-0 by an in-form mid-table side. However, when Stafford Town had to make the return visit on Monday evening, it was a different story. MALVERN TOWN RES

Date

KINGS NASH

KINGS - NASH Clare and Bobby Congratulations on the birth of your daughter, Keris May Jackie, born May 11th, 2006. Thank you for our lovely granddaughter and niece. Lots of love from Mum, Clive and Natalie. xxx Published in paper 12/05/2006

Date

FOSTER

FOSTER Annie Ken and Esme would like to thank Family and Friends for their floral tributes and kind messages of sympathy We would also like to thank Reverend J Musselwhite for a lovely Service and all who attended Also thanks to all who gave donation

Date

WISE

WISE Molly Passed away peacefully on May 8th, 2006,, aged 90 years. Loving mum of Barbara and Diane,. mother in law of Mark and Don. A dearly loved nan of Garry, Claire, Mark, Sharon, Maxine and James, also a dear great nan. Funeral Service will take

Date

MOLE

MOLE Cissie nee Chance Dear mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away April 30th 2006, aged 78 years. Always in our thoughts and hearts. The Funeral Service will take place on Friday May 19th at St Barnabas Church at 12 noon, followed by

Date

VINE

VINE Edna Doris Passed away in hospital on May 10th, 2006, aged 89 years. Beloved wife of Arthur, dear mother of Michael and daughter in law Lesley, much loved grandmother of Julia and Nik, Adrian and Helen and great grandma to Rhys. Funeral Service

Date

BUCKLAND

BUCKLAND Dolfey In loving memory of our dad who passed away a year ago today. Forever loved and remembered. Becky and Dolfey. xxx Published in paper 12/05/2006

Date

BRUFORD

BRUFORD Eileen If memories keep us together, Then we are never far apart. Miss you Eileen. Grace and Gerald. Published in paper 12/05/2006

Date

He'll blow you away

ONE of the country's top saxophonists and flautists is set to show off his talents in Worcester this month with a gig at the city's Huntingdon Hall. Snake Davis has worked with a wealth of musicians over the years including everyone from M People and

Date

Finest music is offered for free

AUDIENCES can see Birmingham Contemporary Music Group perform at Ledbury's John Masefield High School for free on Sunday, May 28, at 7.30pm. The school is hosting the acclaimed group of musicians for the second year, in a touring performance which won

Date

These pirates are heading this way

PIRATES of the River Severn, a nautical adventure, is set to sail into the county. Gloucestershire-based Fabulous Old Spot Theatre Company is presenting the show at two village locations for Shindig - Worcestershire's Rural and Community Touring Scheme

Date

Laugh along with Paddy

ANYONE who fancies clowning around at the Swan Theatre in Worcester is invited to join a very special visitor when he drops in. Guaranteeing hilarious, mad mayhem for all the family, Paddy The Clown's award-winning Laughter Show promises to be a hit.

Date

You can learn to be a star

COUNTY youngsters are being given the chance to tread the same boards as hundreds of stars of both stage and screen. Malvern Theatres has a limited number of places on a special theatre performance course that aims to equip budding thespians with the

Date

EVENTS

MAY 12 The Birmingham & Midland Society for Genealogy & Heraldry A talk entitled Well Fancy That: Coincidences in Family History, at the Baptist Church Hall, Sansome Walk, Worcester, starting at 7.30pm. International ME Awareness Day At City Centre

Date

EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL MAY 20 New Exhibition of Works Featuring many paintings that have not been on show for a number of years, all based on a local theme. Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester. UNTIL MAY 27 Ceramics Exhibition An exhibition

Date

CONCERTS

MAY 12 James Galway and London Mozart Players The world's most famous flautist is appearing at the Forum Theatre, Malvern. Fairport Convention Huntingdon Hall. MAY 13 The Yardbirds Huntingdon Hall. MAY 18 The Fureys and Davey Arthur Huntingdon Hall. MAY

Date

Tragic tale packed full of intrigue

THE court intrigues of one of Britain's most famous monarchs will be brought to the stage by Ledbury Amateur Dramatic Society. Its latest production is Katherine Howard, by William Nicholson, one of the UK's most distinguished writers for stage and screen

Date

'Perfick' play just rolls along

The Darling Buds of May will be bought to the stage at Conquest Theatre in Bromyard. The play, which runs from Wednesday to Saturday, May 17-20, comes from the books by H E Bates about the irrepressible and amoral Larkin family. The stories also spawned

Date

Teen idol has new passion

JACK Ryder, known to many as teen heart-throb Jamie Mitchell from EastEnders, is on stage in Malvern next week. Jack is appearing in The Safari Party, a comedy from the writer of Calendar Girls. It is a farce full of snobbish social pretensions and reveals

Date

What's on

Theatre May Until 13 - Festen at Festival Theatre, Malvern Theatres. 2.30pm & 8pm. £16-£24. Box office (01684) 892277. 15-20 - Billy Liar, Malvern Theatre Players, Coach House Theatre, Malvern. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £8.50 on (01684) 892277. 15-20 -