Archive

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Top quality sport, no matter where it is

THE sports department at the Advertiser/Messenger has moved to a new base of operations but is still the best place to send all the up to date results and news to. To get in contact with Sports Editor Peter McKinney e-mail peter.mckinney@midlands.newsquest.co.uk

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Fredz set to bang heads

TOP tribute band Fred Zeppelin will be rocking out at Lickey End Working Men's Club this Friday. The Led Zeppelin tribute band will be playing one of the best rock bands in the world's classics hits at the Alcester Road venue. The 'Fredz' as they are

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Man, 28, faces murder charge

A 28-YEAR-OLD man has been charged with the murder of a Kidderminster father-of-one after an incident outside a town pub. Gavin Tilling, from Kidderminster, appeared before Kidderminster magistrates on Tuesday charged with killing Martin Yarranton. Mr

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Appeal on air rifle attack

POLICE are appealing for information after a teenage girl was shot with an air rifle in Winyates. The incident happened at about 7pm last Saturday as the 16-year-old was in Winyates Centre. She felt a sting on her leg and later discovered the pellet wound

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Ladies victory

GOLF: Redditch Golf Club's Ladies again flew the flag thanks to their resounding 5-0 win over Evesham in a friendly fixture at the Green Lane club. The Men's team had a difficult week, losing 7-1 at Handsworth in the West Midland Scratch League and 3-

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Tennis aces bag Award

A TEENAGE tennis trio have been rewarded for their efforts coaching the region's up and coming players. Alcester High School's Matt Fielding and Sam Kirby, both aged 16, and 15-year-old Sam Allum of Studley High School have completed their Tennis Leaders

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Knibbs off to Sheffield

REDDITCH swimmer Lucy Knibbs is heading to Sheffield this summer after qualifying for the National Age Group Championships. The 12-year-old pupil at St Bede's Middle School secured the 50m and 200m breaststroke titles at the Worcester County Age Group

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Pie Man has prize hope

IT will be the bright lights of Vegas rather than the floodlights of Bolton's Reebok Stadium that will be shining for Studley dartsman Andy 'Pie Man' Smith later this month. Smith reached the fourth round of the Budweiser UK Open in Bolton at the weekend

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Unspectacular victory keeps Arrows on track

Redditch Arrows 26 Reading Renegades 3 REDDITCH Arrows made it five wins in a row on Sunday to reach the mid-point of their season undefeated. But it was a solid, rather than spectacular performance that put the notch in the win column, as visitors Reading

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Braithwaite second in trek

MORE than 60 riders from across the country converged on the area to take part in the Redditch Road and Path Club's 10-mile time trial. Wyre Forest rider P Prince took the honours with a time of 21.33 to cover the course which took in Harvington, Salford

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50 years ago - June 22, 1956

TOMORROW is the first day of the local branch of the standing conference of women's organisation campaign to clean up the streets of Redditch. The branch's anti-litter week has the full support of Redditch Council's public works committee. Councillor

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25 years ago - June 19, 1981

THE latest of Redditch's Kingfisher Centre's superstores has begun fitting out. The giant Marks and Spencer store is in the final phase of the centre and will be open in time for trading at Christmas. Occupying a position next to Car Park Four, it will

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Coaching class

YOUNG footballers are being urged to head to the Valley Stadium this weekend for Redditch United's first Saturday Morning Club. Children aged from 5 to 16 can take part in the coaching which starts at 9am for those aged up to ten and from 10am for the

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Uplifting drama

TOURING group Hijinx Theatre arrives at Alcester Grammar School on Saturday with its latest production. The group will perform Seize the Day at the Birmingham Road School for one night only as part of its eight-week tour of Wales and England. Set in the

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Wrong way to make Iraq point

AS the grandparents of the young soldier mentioned in the story "Duty Calls for John," we are absolutely outraged at the letter from John Lester (Shuttle Times & News, June 15). We are also anti-war - and we have more reason than most to be against

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Affront to national pride

I READ with interest the letter on Iraq (Angered by story of soldier in Iraq, Letters, June 15). I, like many others, opposed the invasion of that country. Nonetheless, it happened. Now it is to the present situation I refer. Democracy, we are told, is

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Bike yobs are blight on town life

I HAVE read over the past weeks about the motocross/scrambler-type bikes on Puxton Marsh nature reserve. Well, it now seems that this issue has moved on a little further. These motorbikes are regulars on my housing estate at Waterside Grange, a new development

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WI tackling stores on packaging

THE Women's Institute in general and Lickhill WI, in particular, are very concerned about the amount of waste generated by unnecessary packaging of supermarket products. Many of our members are from the generation that remembers taking their own shopping

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Song series

THE third season of Celebrating English Song at Tardebigge opens on Sunday at Tardebigge Church. The concert brings together soprano Donna Bateman and Christopher Glynn on piano, promising a varied collection of works. The series of summer concerts was

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Tribute to Swedish supergroup

ABBA tribute band Voulez Vous returns to Malvern Theatres on Friday. Voulez Vous have been performing for more than 15 years, and offer two hours of non-stop ABBA hits including nine number ones and 19 top 20 hits. Tickets, priced £14.50 and £16.50, are

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Thanks for making carnival a success

I WOULD like to take this opportunity to thank all the helpers and supporters who were involved in making this year's carnival such a success, together with the local shopkeepers who got into the spirit of carnival by getting involved with the best dressed

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Criminal loss

I BELIEVE it is criminal that Brintons sports ground in Kidderminster is being given up to industrial development, especially when the Romwire site on the other side of the road has seen idle for a number of years. Is it any wonder we can't produce a

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Hungry cows help marsh orchids thrive

PUXTON Marsh is now entering its seventh year as a nature reserve looked after by Wyre Forest District Council. For many of these years, the site has been home to a herd of cattle that munch on the various plants, increasing the biodiversity of the reserve

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Kidderminster Valentines Town Hall Kidderminster

WONDERFUL music, great atmosphere and not a football in sight! Once again Kidderminster's fabulous ladies' choir organised a terrific evening of song with their guests, Kiera Lyness and the Aber Valley Male Voice Choir. The ladies included some of the

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Fireman Sam To The Rescue, Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

THE firefighting equivalent of Welsh crooner Tom Jones hit the Midlands for a fun show packed with singing, dancing and pertinent safety messages. Miserable Pontypandy station boss Steele was left behind in the Valleys as Sam, Penny and rock 'n' roll

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18/06/06 - Shephard's powerful century seals Green's final place

Barnt Green 297-6 Whitchurch 125 all out Barnt Green won by 172 runs A CENTURY by Gavin Shephard made sure that Barnt Green CC forgot their league woes and booked their place in the West Midlands final of the Cockspur National Knockout Cup on Sunday.

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17/06/06 - Bad batting hits league form

Barnt Green 124 all out West Bromwich Dartmouth 125-2 Barnt Green lost by eight wickets DEFENDING champions Barnt Green slipped to their third loss in a row in the Birmingham and District League Premier Division as they failed to score enough runs against

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17/06/06 - Croft slip to a Coombs defeat

Avoncroft 197 all out Coombs Wood 198-3 Avoncroft lost by seven wickets AVONCROFT fell to a seven wicket loss at the hands of big hitting Coombs Wood to dent the team's survival chances in the Worcestershire League Division Two on Saturday. Defeat, Croft's

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17/06/06 - Omberlsey are no match for 'Church

Whitchurch 233-1 Ombersley 232-7 Ombersley lost by nine wickets OMBERSLEY slipped to a nine wicket defeat at the hands of high-flying Whitchurch in the Birmingham and District League Division Three on Saturday. The newly promoted team were blown away

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17/06/06 - Duo lead the way in Old Eds victory

Old Edwardians 3rd XI 178-8 Bromsgrove 3rd XI 181-7 Bromsgrove 3rd XI won by three wickets STRONG batting by Tom Hope and Ian Miller guided Bromsgrove to an impressive win over Old Edwardians in the West Midlands 3rd XI Premier League on Saturday. Hope

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Crane's cup dreams ended by the Kiwis

JORDAN Crane's hopes of glory at the IRB under-21 World Championships were dashed by New Zealand in France as England finished their pool just out of the quarter final places. The former South Bromsgrove High School pupil captained the side that lost

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Samra weighs up his India prospects

INTERNATIONAL Manny Samra believes that Indian rugby has a lot to learn after a disastrous campaign in the Asian Nations series in June. The Bromsgrove based prop felt that the Indian team was undermined by a lack of preparation going into the matches

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Glen promising grandeur galore

HEARTS will be conquered at this year's Ludlow Festival says international theatre director, Glen Walford. The former Kidderminster High School pupil will be directing A Midsummer Night's Dream in the majestic surroundings of Ludlow Castle. Glen, who

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Piano duo at the library

A PIANO duo will be entertaining music lovers with pieces by Brahms and Elgar at Kidderminster Library next week. Michael Jones and Mike Smith will be performing on the Steinway Grand Piano on Thursday, at 7.30pm. The programme will include Mozart's Andante

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Quiz for children at library

YOUNG visitors to Kidderminster Library will be able to test their knowledge with a royal quiz as part of the Queen's birthday celebrations on Saturday. The compeition is aimed at youngsters aged 13 and under and entrants will have to enter two questions

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Rosie follows in mum's footsteps

A YOUNG Kidderminster performer who is making waves in the dancing world has scooped a top prize in a national contest. Six-year-old Rosie Egan now has more than 60 trophies in her collection after beating off the competition to finish first at the Stafford

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Art will raise roof

HUNDREDS of original paintings will be on sale to raise money for Abberley and Witley Scouts and Guides this weekend. The Festival of Art willl take place at the The Hundred House Hotel, Great Witley, from 9.30am until 10pm on Saturday and from 10am until

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Sylla back?

REDDITCH United are on the verge of signing French hotshot Norman Sylla -- the player who left the club 12 months ago for a season in the sun.Manager Gary Whild is due to meet with the former Barnet and Tamworth striker tomorrow night to hammer out a

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Songs to suit every taste

MUSIC ranging from opera classics to Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody will fill Kidderminster's St Mary's Church next month. Kidderminster Male Choir will welcome their guests The Steeton Male Voice Choir and soprano Mary Cahill on Saturday, July 1. Both choirs

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Buildbase ace suffers from lack of speed

IRISH bike ace John Laverty produced a top five finish for Redditch-based Buildbase Racing in the British Superstock Championships at Snetterton but admits it was a frustrating weekend. The Norfolk circuit is one of the rider's least favouriteS and he

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Let's debate

I BELIEVE now could be the perfect time for a forum so that Mr Roger Hollingworth and his council cabinet can explain to Bromsgrove's elderly just how well their recovery plan is progressing and this would also provide an excellent precursor to what I

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Redditch ready for new league

NEW Redditch skipper Neil Hodgkins is looking forward to leading the Bromsgrove Road side into a new league this season. And he is hoping that his mix of youth and experience will prove to be a winning formula. Hodgkins said: "Following restructuring

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Rovers stripped for action

BROMSGROVE Rovers will be hoping to look as snazzy on the pitch as the club's new home and away kits, which were revealed at the Victoria Ground this week. The traditional home shirt and brand new away shirt, both of which have the logo of new kit sponsors

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Goss eyes up season of stability

AFTER last season's roller-coaster campaign in the Midland Combination Division Two Droitwich Spa manager Tom Goss is hoping for some stability in the 2006/2007 campaign. In the previous season an inexperienced Spa side, which had lost a lot of its older

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Putting your 'heart' into it

I AM writing to encourage your readers to put their spare time to good use by volunteering at their local British Heart Foundation (BHF) Shop in Worcestershire. Volunteers are absolutely essential to the success of the BHF and play a vital role in raising

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Flying flag for England

COULD I please take this opportunity to clear up what was written about our flags because it did contain factual errors and I would not want your readers to be misled. The flag of England is the flag of St George and most certainly is not the Union Flag

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Individual strings strike a comedy chord

ALAN Ayckbourn's comedy, Confusions, is being brought to the Artrix by the All and Sundry Theatre Group. The Bromsgrove theatre group tackles one of Ayckbourn's most complex plays, which inter-twines five different one act plays. All of the plays are

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Exhibitions

Library, Kidderminster - Waseley Hills Craft Guild, until July 6. Life's a Doodle, until July 8. Museum, Bewdley From Brush to Canvas, until August 28. Hat's Off, until July 30. Ceramicist Paul Hancox, until August 16. Library, Droitwich - What Goes Around

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Theatre

Alexandra, Birmingham - Dirty Dusting, Monday until July 1. Festival Theatre, Malvern - Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Monday until July 1. Ludlow, Castle - A Midsummer Night's Dream (June 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, July 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Matinees

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What's On

TONIGHT: Birmingham: Marriott Hotel - Lupa. Symphony Hall - CBSO play music by Stravinsky. Wolverhampton: Robin R'n'B2 - The Doobie Others. Little Civic - The Farmers Daughter Folk Club. FRIDAY: Shrawley: The New Inn - jazz. Wolverley: The Queen's Head

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Films galore

CHIEFS at Bromsgrove's Artrix centre hope a packed cinema programme can be the perfect distraction from World Cup fever this summer. The arts centre, on School Drive, has a glittering collection of the year's best movies on show through the summer. British

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Droitwich WI

Members at the June meeting were met by the scent of sweetpeas brought in by the secretary. Correspondence was read and details of the July visit to Royal Worcester Porcelain were finalised. Members with cars will take those without transport and tables

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Finstall WI

The June meeting was held in Finstall village hall. Jill Findon, president, welcomed 28 members and two visitors to the meeting on a hot summer day. Jerusalem was sung, but before the business Jill had sad news of the sudden death of Janet Hodgetts -

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Hagley Gardeners' Club

AN evening with Duncan Coombs travelling around China was enjoyed by members in May. Duncan is always a welcome visitor and his slides are always a joy to see. The June 28 meeting is for members only and will be a private visit to Tythe Barn House, Chaddesley

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Exhall close gap on rivals

JUST two points now separate Exhall & Wixford from top slot after the Church Lane side beat leaders Bretforton by six wickets on Saturday. And with a trip to basement side Broadway this weekend, Exhall have top spot back within their grasp. Steve

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World Cup dreams became a nightmare

PUPILS from a Bromsgrove school saw their World Cup dream turn into a nightmare, after they never received their match tickets. The party of 43 students and six teachers from North Bromsgrove High School jetted over to Germany last Thursday (June 15)

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Warning over summer thefts

BROMSGROVE police are warning residents to make sure their homes, gardens and cars are secure this summer. PC Stan Baker, the crime risk manager for Bromsgrove, says that at this time of year more people are in their gardens or driving out in their cars

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Replace my fence plea

A CATSHILL woman is calling for a fence to be replaced before it falls onto her children. Sarah Pitt, of Cobnall Road, said she and her family moved into the Bromsgrove District Housing Association home in January. But she says the garden fence is in

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CD - Surprise - Paul Simon

PAUL Simon has had six years away from the recording studio since the global success of his Graceland album. Now he is back and, with Brian Eno twiddling the knobs, it seems his return has been long overdue. Simon has never been one to stand still. From

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Kate draws the crowds

TALENTED Stoke Prior artist Kate Rees 'drew the crowds' when she performed the opening ceremony of Avoncroft Art Society's summer exhibition in Bromsgrove. The event, held at Stoke Heath Community Arts Centre, attracted many visitors throughout the weekend

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Parking charges to be reviewed

car parking charges and permits in Bromsgrove are to be examined as part of an overall review. The move follows complaints from the public after the district council increased parking permit charges for the 60 to 64 age group and slapped a £30 fee on

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CD - A Lively Mind - Paul Oakenfold

THE latest offering from superstar DJ Oakenfold is predictably high quality but unfortunately does not offer anything off the beaten track. The first taster of A Lively Mind, featuring actress-turned-singer Brittany Murphy, is fairly mainstream and sets

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Man gets ASBO for racial abuse

A 28-YEAR-OLD Bromsgrove man has been given a three year criminal anti-social behaviour order. Glen David Carver, from Aston Fields, was given the order at a hearing at Redditch magistrates court following incidents of racially aggravated abuse in Bromsgrove

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Countdown to pub opening

A NEW Bromsgrove town centre pub, named by six Advertiser/Messenger readers, is due to open its doors next Wednesday . The Barracuda Group is opening The Rousler, at 11-13 High Street, in the former Halfords store and the adjacent vacant shop. Our readers

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Basement's plea for volunteers

A centre, dedicated to working with young homeless people in the town, is appealing for more volunteers to come forward to continue its success. The Bromsgrove Youth Homelessness Forum is a local registered charity offering information, support and advice

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Turning the clocks back

BROMSGROVE will turn back the pages of history to the days of Merrie England on Saturday when the town stages its annual Midsummer Fair Day pageant and Elizabethan street market. Stalls, most of them striving to raise cash for various charities, will

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Clark heroics

STEVE Clark and Paul Boycott were Astwood Bank's unlikely batting heroes as they steered their side to a winning draw at Bromyard in Division One. The Jill Lane side looked to be in trouble when they lost their first three wickets with just 30 on the

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Green light for town phone mast scheme

CONTROVERSIAL plans to install three new mobile phone masts next to a Bromsgrove primary school have been approved. Planning chiefs granted mobile phone giant Vodafone permission for the masts at the telephone exchange in Hannover Street, near to St John's

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Redditch stun title hopefuls

REDDITCH pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the weekend with their defeat of Division Three promotion hopefuls Berkswell. And captain Nev Mason is now hoping his Bromsgrove Road side can climb the table and ease any relegation worries. After winning

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Village pair eliminated

CUP rivals Astwood Bank and Exhall & Wixford can turn their attentions to the league after the pair crashed out of the National Village Knockout Cup. Bank suffered a hefty defeat at the hands of Worcestershire Division One rivals Chaddesley Corbett

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Fixtures

REDDITCH will be hoping to build on last week's excellent victory when they play host to neighbours Worcester in Division Three of the Birmingham League. Studley are on the road in Division Two with a trip to Attock (both 1pm). Other fixtures: Worcestershire

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Player killed at golf day

A GOLF day turned to tragedy when an elderly competitor was knocked down crossing a road and killed. Golfers and visitors to the open tournament at Droitwich Golf and Country Club, in Ford Lane, were shocked after 77-year-old Arthur Searle was hit by

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Cigarettes seized in raid on smuggler

CUSTOMS officers swooped on a factory in Droitwich Spa to seize cigarettes which were part of a smuggling scam. Acting on intelligence, customs found 7,500 of the cigarettes at the man's place of work, a factory in the town, and a further 63,000 cigarettes

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Sound Advice

QUESTION: I am 68 years old and am very worried about this bird flu. I have asked my doctor for an injection against it but he will not give me one. Am I at risk? Answer: So far bird flu only infects birds as it is a special strain. It only affects humans

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Cookley WI

COOKLEY WI -- A members' evening was held in June with Janet Murray as president and Mary Perks as secretary. The speaker was Mrs Rosemary Prosser, who gave a talk on her life. Gwen Palmer won the competition for best rose. A plant swap and ploughman's

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Stourport

LICKHILL TG - The guest speaker at the June meeting was Mrs Bache. The subject of her talk was the Casualties Union, a group of people who enact the part of casualties in mock-up disasters for the training of the fire, ambulance and other rescue services

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30 years ago June 18,1976

BROMSGROVE Trades Council was highly critical of the police and the district council for banning a rag week procession by Shenstone College. Police said it would cause traffic disruption, while the council would not OK a street collection. Trades council

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100 years ago June 21,1906

BROMSGROVE'S workhouse would be a less chillier place in future. A plan was being drawn up to scrap the old open ranges and install a steam heating plant. The net expense for the next 15 years, it was estimated, would be £20 per annum, which was good

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Play park plagued by gangs of youths

A CHURCH Hill resident has called for the demolition of a play park which has caused "misery and anxiety" for residents because of vandals, arsonists and thieves. Jackie Gregory said a recent arson attack on the Edgworth Close play area was "the last

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Suicide woman 'had no way out'

A YOUNG mum facing a lengthy prison sentence and the loss of her son saw suicide as the only way out, an inquest heard. Leila Ann Williams, who lived in Eunal Court in Well Close, Crabbs Cross, was found by a neighbour after she hanged herself on November

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Honour for ex-bobby

A POPULAR face in the town has been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours. Recently retired Pc Dave Wilkins (pictured) was given an OBE this week for his services to the police. The 55-year-old was nominated by Councillor Juliet Brunner, who dubbed

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Councillors 'should get better salaries'

BETTER pay for councillors has been demanded by Liberal Democrat Nigel Hicks. Mr Hicks told the Advertiser that although he clearly was not interested in doing the job for the money, he thought councillors should receive more financial reward for their

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Making no difference

THE main (some would argue only) reason local councils like Redditch have to exist is to provide democratically accountable community leadership. All its other activities are subordinate to that. Redditch Council appears to agree with that sentiment because

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Force job loss fears

A REDDITCH councillor and former vice chair of West Mercia police authority has voiced fears over the job losses which could be caused by proposed police force mergers. Councillor Bill Hartnett echoed West Mercia Police Authority Chairman Paul Deneen's

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Mess left after party in park

ON Thursday, May 18 in Morton Stanley Park, there was a gathering of teenagers celebrating the end of exams. Due to the inclement weather, they moved to the underpass between the park and Feckenham Road. It is natural to enjoy the elation at the culmination

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Skippers star in video

A TALENTED gang of skippers have found fame after featuring in a music video. The group of five from the well-known Studley Blue and White Skippers starred in a music video for new artist James Morrison, which was released at the weekend. Beci Dale, Rachael

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Healthy school scoops silver

MAPPLEBOROUGH Green Primary school has been rewarded for implementing a healthier lifestyle for pupils. The school was presented with a silver award at a ceremony at Warwick Arts Centre. To win the award, the school was assessed and shown how to improve

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Free advice on diabetes

MATCHBOROUGH Pharmacy is offering residents the chance to find out more about diabetes. The Matchborough Centre chemist is running a month of free advice sessions to coincide with Diabetes Awareness Week, which started last Monday. Residents already diagnosed

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Cows on the hoof

LOOSE cattle have been roaming free in Rowney Green. Alvechurch Parish Council clerk Yvonne Goode said about 80 cows were on a bridleway in the area with nobody looking after them. A Worcestershire County Council spokesman said: "The Animal Welfare Team

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Open gardens

COOKHILL and District Gardening Association is holding its annual open garden event on Sunday from 2pm, starting at the village hall. There will be plants on sale, a composting display, light refreshments will be available and up to 11 private gardens

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GPs raise fears over trust cuts

A BODY of GPs has voiced concerns over possible cost-cutting measures by the town's Primary Care Trust (PCT). The Worcestershire Local Medical Committee (LMC) has criticised the Government for forcing PCTs into making more savings as part of efforts to

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Man walked out of prison

A REDDITCH man who walked out of Hewell Grange open prison to go home has had another six months added to his sentence. Spencer Price, aged 27, of Dolben Lane, Winyates, pleaded guilty at Worcester Crown Court to escaping from lawful custody. He had been

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Market move is hit with traders

THE decision to relocate Redditch market back to Church Green is already proving popular with past and potential traders. In April, existing stallholders were told the market would move back to its former home -- three years after being relocated to its

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Alcester WI

AT the June meeting , Matthew Skinner gave a talk on Trekking for Cancer. With the aid of wonderful photo albums, he guided members through his most recent trip to Peru and along the Inca Trail to Machupichu. Rediscovered in 1911, the site is in immaculate

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Hollywood WI

VICE-President Christine Thomas welcomed members and introduced Esma Wilson ,who for many years was a member of The Archers radio cast. She gave a very lively account of her working life entitled "TV and Radio Characters". Helpers are needed for the annual

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Crew battles elements at Dukeries Rally

BROMSGROVE driver Nathan Crewe braved tough conditions to improve his standings in the British Trials and Rally Drivers Association (BTRDA) Championship at the Rainworth Skoda Dukeries Rally over the weekend. Crewe and co-driver Chris Brooks weathered

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Fourth place sealed

SWIMMING: Droitwich Dolphins' A team finished fourth in the third round of the Nuneaton League Division Three over the weekend in Brierley Hill. The team consolidated their mid-table league position after some impressive individual performances by the

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Brown wins decider in Sunday series

ROBIN Brown was the overall winner of the sailboards class boat race in Barnt Green Sailing Club's Sunday Night Pursuit Series. Brown won two of the three races on Upper Bittell Reservoir. In the first race he was followed by Jeff Nancarrow in second

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Hooked on old buttons

FORGE Mill Needle Museum is hoping to "hook" visitors with a new exhibition which runs until July 2. The Buttonhook Society's 26th annual exhibition features an array of buttonhooks and Victorian tools which helped push buttons through stiff leather on

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Sharon shines in new career

A REDDITCH mum is celebrating her first year as a self-employed jeweller after a radical career change. Sharon Gayle (above) worked in sales and advertising until she had her daughter, who was born blind. Her commitment to caring meant career changes

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Date change for club

COOKHILL Keyboard Club's next meeting has been changed from the usual first Wednesday in July to Friday, July 7. The meeting will conclude with an extended concert by Stuart Derry, of Cranes Music in Worcester, on both the new Korg and the Tyros 2 keyboards

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Road checks to cut crime

ROAD checks have been carried out in Studley as part of a police operation to target criminals travelling into Warwickshire. Operation Portsmouth involved officers focussing on the A435 over a two-week period. The operation is thought to already have

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Free business advice

BUSINESSPEOPLE looking for advice are invited to a drop-in day at a Moons Moat industrial estate tomorow. Learning Zone Redditch, based at Brooklands, Moons Moat Drive, is hosting the Business Link Drop-In Day, giving businesses the opportunity to discuss

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Club Mark meeting

SPORTS clubs in the area are invited to a Club Mark meeting tonight to discuss how they can achieve club accreditation. Redditch School Sports Partnership and Redditch Council's sports development unit is running the meeting at Woodfield Middle School

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Company collection

A REDDITCH fishing tackle company is celebrating after netting hundreds of pounds towards a town woman's charity bid. The Shakespeare Fishing Tackle Company raised £571 for Jodie Locket's sponsorship fund to enable her to take part in the Aviva Breakthrough

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TV appeal to find baby Lilly's mum

SIX weeks after the body of a newborn baby girl was found by the riverbank near Great Alne, the case is to appear on BBC's Crimewatch tonight. Detectives will travel to London to take part in the programme, which will include film footage of the scene

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Firm on the move

AN online sex toy and lingerie supplier is moving to new distribution premises in Redditch after a huge growth in demand. Temptations Direct has seen such growth in sales it is quadrupling its size and moving to the Rubicon Centre. The company will also

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Book's river theme

A COUGHTON man is sharing his knowledge of rivers with students in Redditch and Alcester. Derek Lippett, 68, has spent four years since he retired as a fisheries management officer for the Environment Agency producing The River Arrow in Decline and Recovery

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Alwen marks a century

A WELL-travelled great grandmother has celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends in Alcester. Alwen Long, nee Roberts, was joined by loved ones at Meadow View Care Home to mark her milestone birthday. The centenarian was born in Corwen, North

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Family activity day

POND dipping will be the main attraction at a family learning activity day at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre on Sunday. Youngsters and their parents are invited to the event from 11am-4pm on Sunday and will be given the chance to dip their nets into

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Music course

THE Descendants of Windrush (DOW) are holding a 10-week course to teach youngsters how to produce thier own music. Participants will be taught how to create hip-hop beats, R 'n' B rhythms, dance hall and garage tracks. The training will be held at a state-of-the-art

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Lions to share their proceeds

REDDITCH Lions have already donated thousands of pounds to worthwhile causes this year and hope to help more people with Fun in the Field next month. The free annual event takes place at the Neville Arms, Astwood Bank on Saturday, July 15 from 1-5pm.

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The Ark of triumph

ALVECHURCH Parish Church's new annex will be officially opened by the Bishop of Worcester on Saturday. The Rt Rev Dr Peter Selby will formally open the £1m Ark in a ceremony at 11.30am. The new building, called The Ark because of its boat-like shape,

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Engineering for the future

A GROUP of aspiring engineers from Woodfield Middle School will pit their wits against fellow students in a project at Birmingham's International Convention Centre. The youngsters from the Studley Road school will compete in the final school project run

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First time for society

ALCESTER Amateur Operatic Society arrived at Redditch's Palace Theatre to perform Fiddler on the Roof yesterday. The production, sponsored by Bloomfield Ltd, of Bidford, runs until Saturday and is the first time the society has played at the Palace. Tickets

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Diary of Events

Saturday, June 24 Studley Junior School and Church holds its summer fete on the school field from 2-4pm. There will be variety of fun activities, cakes on sale, a raffle and pig roast. Tuesday, June 27 Batchley residents are invited to a meeting of Batchley

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DONNELL

O'DONNELL David John Passed away suddenly, but peacefully on Friday, June 16th, 2006, aged 61. Much loved husband to Judy, father to Russ and Chris, and grandfather to Jenna and Jake. A Private Cremation will be followed by a Service of Thanksgiving at

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PHILLPOTT

PHILLPOTT Les Retired employee of the Metal Castings. Passed away peacefully in hospital on June 14th, 2006, aged 72 years. Very much loved husband to Dolores, dad to Julie, Lesley and Paul and treasured grandad. He will be sadly missed. Join us to celebrate

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WOOD

WOOD Martin Passed away after a long illness on June 17th, aged 84 years. He will be sadly missed by all his Family. Funeral Service will take place at St Barnabas Church on Monday June 26th at 2. 00 p.m. followed by interment at Astwood Cemetery. No

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Fredz set to bang heads

TOP tribute band Fred Zeppelin will be rocking out at Lickey End Working Men's Club this Friday. The Led Zeppelin tribute band will be playing one of the best rock bands in the world's classics hits at the Alcester Road venue. The 'Fredz' as they are

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Jazz it up in summertime

BUILDING on their success in the world of jazz the Worcestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra will be once again performing at Worcester's Swan Theatre for 'Jazz on a Summer's Evening. They'll be performing with this year's special guest, Mark Nightingale, on

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Uplifting drama

TOURING group Hijinx Theatre arrives at Alcester Grammar School on Saturday with its latest production. The group will perform Seize the Day at the Birmingham Road School for one night only as part of its eight-week tour of Wales and England. Set in the

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More voices

REDDITCH Choral Society is looking for new members. The society meets once a week and welcomes anyone who sings high quality classical music. To get involved, call 550086 or 524118.

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Tribute to Swedish supergroup

ABBA tribute band Voulez Vous returns to Malvern Theatres on Friday. Voulez Vous have been performing for more than 15 years, and offer two hours of non-stop ABBA hits including nine number ones and 19 top 20 hits. Tickets, priced £14.50 and £16.50, are

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What's On Guide

Wednesday, June 21 Alcester Amateur Operatic Society presents Fiddler on the Roof, Palace Theatre, Redditch. Until June 24. Tickets on 65203. Jubilee Travel Charity Show, Swan Theatre, Worcester. Tickets on 01905 611427 or www.huntingdonarts.com John

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Four winds: Dine in style and take in the view

SPECTACULAR views in an idyllic countryside location, friendly staff and fantastic traditional English cuisine - what more could you want from a restaurant? The Four Winds restaurant enjoys a superb location on Hollies Hill, off the Bromsgrove Road in

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Annaliza: Easy way to a perfect dress

IS your big day coming up, but you haven't found the wedding dress of your dreams? Kidderminster-based bridal shop Annaliza Bridalwear has the solution. After noticing that many brides-to-be were under pressure of time to find their perfect dress, Annaliza

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Fun, friendly place

Missfits are now in their 11th year helping ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes to lose weight, tone up and reduce stress. As Missfits owner Alison Little explained: "Between 80-90 percent of our ladies had never been to a gym before in their life. Many

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Wigley DIY: One-stop shop for all home products

FROM little acorns mighty oaks do grow - and how true that is of Wigley DIY. Started 36 years ago by the late Ken Wigley and his wife Jennie, the Stourport store evolved from humble beginnings making furniture carcasses. Today it is an established family-run

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The Wash House: Perfect place for new-look kitchen

TRANSFORM your kitchen beyond your wildest dreams with the help of a tried and trusted Stourport firm, The Wash House. With an expert refurbishment you can plan the kitchen you really want, while making the most of your existing units to keep the cost

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Hungry cows help marsh orchids thrive

PUXTON Marsh is now entering its seventh year as a nature reserve looked after by Wyre Forest District Council. For many of these years, the site has been home to a herd of cattle that munch on the various plants, increasing the biodiversity of the reserve

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Saving cash - and the environment

InkGloss, our local cartridge refilling centre, opened its doors in Stourbridge last year and has seen a steady growth of local customers and businesses. Located at the top of the High Street and nestled in between the estate agents, they specialise in

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Little Lakes Golf Club: Packages to fit your needs

DON'T get handicapped by a busy lifestyle - get in the swing at the renowned Little Lakes Golf Club with a membership deal to suit your needs. This popular Bewdley-based club is offering a range of flexible membership initiatives to attract new members

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Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre: Get on the right road to fitness

ADVICE on losing weight bombards us from every direction - on TV, in magazines and newspapers, on billboards and even the internet - but how can we find a sensible route to weight loss and general fitness? There's so much information and controversy about

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Kidderminster Valentines Town Hall Kidderminster

WONDERFUL music, great atmosphere and not a football in sight! Once again Kidderminster's fabulous ladies' choir organised a terrific evening of song with their guests, Kiera Lyness and the Aber Valley Male Voice Choir. The ladies included some of the

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The Granary: Hotel now has great new look

THE Granary Hotel in Shenstone has a great new look - thanks to extensive refurbishment and renovation work. The Heath Lane venue now has a striking new reception area, brand new function bar and a transformed lounge area which was formerly the Atrium

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Cool place to party in the heat of summer

For hot Summer nights The Picturehouse is the cool place to party. Thursday nights are Rush and are dedicated to students, admission to the wine bar is only £1: 8-9pm, £3: 9-10, £4: 11 onwards. The special drink prices are £1.70 a pint and £1.90 for bottles

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Pharmacy has a wealth of experience to offer

Stourbridge Pharmacy is situated on the main High Street in Stourbridge opposite the Talbot. Owned by Murrays Healthcare, which has recently celebrated their 85th anniversary of trading in the community, it has a wealth of experience to offer. The pharmacy

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Customer care and unbeatable prices

Best price, best choice, best service...always - that's the promise to customers who visit Geoff Hill Electrical and Gas Superstore in Amblecote, Stourbridge. Most people in the local area have heard of Geoff Hill, which is based in High Street and which

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Top to toe treatment

Would you dare to bare? Summer is here; its time to give ourselves a top to toe overhaul and get to work on cellulite and bumps and bulges. A pain free option is here with a fantastic new range of doctor only treatments at Tinkable; the very latest procedures

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Carnival sandwich offer

To support the town's celebrations for the Carnival The SUBWAY store in Stourbridge are offering a free 21oz soft drink, with the purchase of any 6" or 12" sub on Sunday 25 June. Offer applies from 10am-5pm. The SUBWAY chain offers great tasting SUB sandwiches

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Treats to make the mouth water

The new summer menu at the Swan is mouth-watering and reflects all of the finest fresh produce with starters of creamy goats cheese and tomato bruschetta, or delicious smoked salmon and prawn cocktail, followed with smoked haddock on a cheddar cheesemash

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Wide choice of gifts and cards

A fine Victorian house in Worcester Street is the home of Stourbridge Galleries where you will find an art gallery, gift shop and a bespoke picture framing service. The galleries offer an extensive range of gifts and greetings cards for every occasion

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Glen promising grandeur galore

HEARTS will be conquered at this year's Ludlow Festival says international theatre director, Glen Walford. The former Kidderminster High School pupil will be directing A Midsummer Night's Dream in the majestic surroundings of Ludlow Castle. Glen, who

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Rocking time

A BAND influenced by the Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana will be rocking at Kidderminster's Boar's Head Taphouse tonight. Ideamotion, which is made up of Kidderminster drummer, Jamie Desogus, lead guitarist, Tom Boland, Rob Hennebry on bass and singer and

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Company's 75 years of quality productions

Stourbridge Company began over 75 years ago and was called The Stourbridge Play Readers - later to become Stourbridge Dramatic Society. In 1998 it was formed into a limited company called Stourbridge Theatre Company Limited. Recently the company has been

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Comic characters draw in big crowd

COMIC strips of popular characters Dennis the Menace and Minnie the Minx are drawing in the crowds at Kidderminster Library. An exhibition of cartoonist Kev F Sutherland's work for the Beano magazine, which also includes The Bash Street Kids, runs until

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Rosie follows in mum's footsteps

A YOUNG Kidderminster performer who is making waves in the dancing world has scooped a top prize in a national contest. Six-year-old Rosie Egan now has more than 60 trophies in her collection after beating off the competition to finish first at the Stafford

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Find out all about badgers

WILDLIFE lovers can find out more about the life of badgers at Bishops Wood Centre near Stourport next week. Expert Andy Hadley will entertain the audience at a talk on June 28 at 7.30pm with stories of nights watching badgers. The event, organised by

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Simply summer

A return to simple, understated dressing is the key message for Dorothy Perkins High Summer Collection. Pretty rustic natural fibres such as cotton and linen feature strongly in warm natural shades of cream, taupe, white and mocha. Key pieces include

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Art will raise roof

HUNDREDS of original paintings will be on sale to raise money for Abberley and Witley Scouts and Guides this weekend. The Festival of Art willl take place at the The Hundred House Hotel, Great Witley, from 9.30am until 10pm on Saturday and from 10am until

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Songs to suit every taste

MUSIC ranging from opera classics to Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody will fill Kidderminster's St Mary's Church next month. Kidderminster Male Choir will welcome their guests The Steeton Male Voice Choir and soprano Mary Cahill on Saturday, July 1. Both choirs

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Leading providers of all financial products

Dudley Building Society remains an independent, locally focused mutual Society, committed to providing the very best service to the people of Stourbridge and the Black Country. Matt Ward, marketing director, said: "Our Stourbridge branch is celebrating

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Individual strings strike a comedy chord

ALAN Ayckbourn's comedy, Confusions, is being brought to the Artrix by the All and Sundry Theatre Group. The Bromsgrove theatre group tackles one of Ayckbourn's most complex plays, which inter-twines five different one act plays. All of the plays are

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Exhibitions

Library, Kidderminster - Waseley Hills Craft Guild, until July 6. Life's a Doodle, until July 8. Museum, Bewdley From Brush to Canvas, until August 28. Hat's Off, until July 30. Ceramicist Paul Hancox, until August 16. Library, Droitwich - What Goes Around

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CD - Surprise - Paul Simon

PAUL Simon has had six years away from the recording studio since the global success of his Graceland album. Now he is back and, with Brian Eno twiddling the knobs, it seems his return has been long overdue. Simon has never been one to stand still. From

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DVD - Memoirs Of A Geisha (12)

IN the uncertain years before the Second World War, nine-year-old Chiyo (Suzuka Ohgo) is sold by her widowed father to a geisha house, where she toils night and day for the owner, Mother (Kaori Momoi). Constant run-ins with geisha Hatsumomo (Gong Li),

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Piano duo at library

A PIANO duo will be entertaining music lovers with pieces by Brahms and Elgar at Kidderminster Library next week. Michael Jones and Mike Smith will be performing on the Steinway Grand Piano on Thursday, at 7.30pm. The programme will include Mozart's Andante

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Protherough is the man for Droitwich

DROITWICH Spa RFC have named former player Dan Protherough as the new man in charge of first team affairs at the Glynn Mitchell Memorial Stadium. Protherough will be unveiled as the new head coach and introduced to the players this Thursday evening (June

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Rovers stripped for action

BROMSGROVE Rovers will be hoping to look as snazzy on the pitch as the club's new home and away kits, which were revealed at the Victoria Ground this week. The traditional home shirt and brand new away shirt, both of which have the logo of new kit sponsors

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Jazz it up in summertime

BUILDING on their success in the world of jazz the Worcestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra will be once again performing at Worcester's Swan Theatre for 'Jazz on a Summer's Evening. They'll be performing with this year's special guest, Mark Nightingale, on

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GP night duties shock

WYRE Forest's MP has expressed his anger at not being consulted over a reduction in out-of-hours GP services which he describes as a "big blow" to the district's health services. No doctors are based at Kidderminster Hospital's Primary Care Centre after

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Sylla back?

REDDITCH United are on the verge of signing French hotshot Norman Sylla -- the player who left the club 12 months ago for a season in the sun.Manager Gary Whild is due to meet with the former Barnet and Tamworth striker tomorrow night to hammer out a

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Inkberrow in the reckoning

TENNIS: Inkberrow stormed into the top three of the Premier Division of the Prudden Road Surfacing Summer League thanks to back-to-back wins over neighbours Studley. The latter had been challenging Stratford B for top spot earlier in the season but have

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Junior takes prize

ANGLING: Astwood Bank's Dark Lane Angling Club fished their first Aggregate Derek Hopkins Cup on the River Arrow on Saturday. In spite of low river levels, weights were high across the 28-strong field and Pete Aspindale Jnr returned to winning ways with

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Eagles are soaring

NETBALL: Enfield Eagles won the Action Sport League Trophy after an action-packed five weeks of games. Some excellent netball resulted in Enfield holding off nearest challengers Bordesley Bluebirds by just three points. But there is more silverware up

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Buildbase ace suffers from lack of speed

IRISH bike ace John Laverty produced a top five finish for Redditch-based Buildbase Racing in the British Superstock Championships at Snetterton but admits it was a frustrating weekend. The Norfolk circuit is one of the rider's least favouriteS and he

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100 years ago - June 23, 1906

A CYCLE worker from Crabbs Cross was summoned for riding a bicycle furiously, to the danger of the public, in Evesham Road, Astwood Bank. Police Constable Jones said defendant James Wells had his head bent over the handlebars and was going at the rate

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Where to go

Wednesday, June 21 THEATRE: Fiddler on the Roof (until June 24), The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch. MUSIC: John Tams and Barry Coope, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. MUSIC: Jubilee Travel Charity Show, Swan Theatre, Worcester. Thursday, June 22

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Strugglers shock

BASEMENT club Luke Divine bagged a rare win in the Sunday league, beating fellow strugglers The Lions of St George 5-1. Chelski made it back-to-back wins when they saw off Dog & Pheasant 6-2. In Wednesday's games, RJFS bounced back from last week's

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First time for society

ALCESTER Amateur Operatic Society arrived at Redditch's Palace Theatre to perform Fiddler on the Roof yesterday. The production, sponsored by Bloomfield Ltd, of Bidford, runs until Saturday and is the first time the society has played at the Palace. Tickets

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Teams call

TEAMS are needed for the Redditch Corporate six-a-side league which starts later this month. Matches will be played on Monday evenings and players, aged 16 and over, looking for more information can call 01937 841440 or email: footballmundial@aol.com.

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More voices

REDDITCH Choral Society is looking for new members. The society meets once a week and welcomes anyone who sings high quality classical music. To get involved, call 550086 or 524118.

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What's On Guide

Wednesday, June 21 Alcester Amateur Operatic Society presents Fiddler on the Roof, Palace Theatre, Redditch. Until June 24. Tickets on 65203. Jubilee Travel Charity Show, Swan Theatre, Worcester. Tickets on 01905 611427 or www.huntingdonarts.com John

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17/06/06 - Runs flow for the Boars as they stun pace setters

Bromsgrove 228-5 Statford-upon-Avon 161 all out Bromsgrove won by 67 runs BROMSGROVE kick started their season by stunning promotion chasing Stratford at St Godwald's in the Birmingham and District League Division One on Saturday. The Boars, who had been

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17/06/06 - Handy Andy smashes Corbett

Droitwich 261-6 Chaddesley Corbett 188 all out Droitwich won by 73 runs ANDY Van Vuuren made an impressive return to first team action after a two year absence to help Droitwich inflict a heavy defeat on Chaddesley Corbett in the Worcestershire League

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18/06/06 - Worcestershire League round up

BELBROUGHTON slipped to a five wicket defeat at the hands of Hagley in the Worcestershire League Division Two on Saturday. Dave Haywood hit 95 runs for the Tons as they made 226-5 but Hagley replied with 230-5 in reply. Cutnall Green bounced back from

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18/06/06 - Perkins' century seals Bromsgrove defeat to Swindon

Bromsgrove 183 all out Swindon 184-3 Bromsgrove lost by seven wickets BROMSGROVE were shot down by Matt Perkins' century as they lost to Staffordshire side Swindon in the Worcestershire Sunday League. The Boars had several fine performances with the bat

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18/06/06 - Williams and Kolb steal the show with the bat in derby clash

Barnt Green 179-8 Droitwich 177-1 Droitwich won by nine wickets TWO individual big hitting performances graced the derby clash between Barnt Green and Droitwich in this Worcestershire Sunday League clash. Droitwich, who top the first XI table, were inspired

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Protherough is the man for Droitwich

DROITWICH Spa RFC have named former player Dan Protherough as the new man in charge of first team affairs at the Glynn Mitchell Memorial Stadium. Protherough will be unveiled as the new head coach and introduced to the players this Thursday evening (June

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Rocking time

A BAND influenced by the Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana will be rocking at Kidderminster's Boar's Head Taphouse tonight. Ideamotion, which is made up of Kidderminster drummer, Jamie Desogus, lead guitarist, Tom Boland, Rob Hennebry on bass and singer and

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Robert's story writing skills are rewarded

MEMORIES of the 9/11 terrorist attacks have inspired a Bewdley writer's prize-winning short story. Robert Ireland, of Northwood Lane, will be jetting off to Tuscany to enjoy a writing holiday after he finished first in a national competition. Mr Ireland

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Comic characters draw in big crowd

COMIC strips of popular characters Dennis the Menace and Minnie the Minx are drawing in the crowds at Kidderminster Library. An exhibition of cartoonist Kev F Sutherland's work for the Beano magazine, which also includes The Bash Street Kids, runs until

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A stitch in time for new town tapestry

TIME is running out for crafty Bewdley residents who want to leave their mark on the town's new tapestry. Textile artist, Cynthia Pearson, of Kidderminster Road, has organised the project to mark the end of the flood defence works. The first tapestry,

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Hooked on classics at church

CLASSICALLY trained musician Nonny James will be performing at Stourport Wesley Methodist Church on Saturday. Nonny, who studied piano and classical guitar will entertain the audience with blues and jazz from 7.30pm. Tickets available from Andrew on 01299

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Find out all about badgers

WILDLIFE lovers can find out more about the life of badgers at Bishops Wood Centre near Stourport next week. Expert Andy Hadley will entertain the audience at a talk on June 28 at 7.30pm with stories of nights watching badgers. The event, organised by

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Strength of feeling?

PENSIONERS, why moan if you take no action? With Bromsgrove District withdrawing the free parking permits for pensioners and their meanness in stopping the swimming concessionary charges for the elderly last year, plus the new charges for disabled persons

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Flying flag for England

COULD I please take this opportunity to clear up what was written about our flags because it did contain factual errors and I would not want your readers to be misled. The flag of England is the flag of St George and most certainly is not the Union Flag

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Ravens field half a team

Plymouth 90 Redditch Ravens 0 THIS was a case of Redditch's Magnificent Seven battling throughout against a powerful Plymouth side. The Ravens had never been 'nilled' prior to this game but with just seven players able to make the trip, this game was

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Pupils helped by the Ravens

JUST a few months after taking up the sport, a group of Redditch pupils have been celebrating their success on the rugby league field. A team of Year 9 students at St Augustine's High School took the honours in the Midlands round of the Powergen National

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Spartak manager targets firepower

BARNT Green Spartak manager GJ Singh is hoping that a tight knit squad can improve on last season's finish in the Midlands Combination Premier Division next season. Spartak finished an inconsistent season with a five game unbeaten run to come third in

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Villa boss on course to keep his squad

MANAGER Paul Oakes is confident that he will keep the same squad that played so well last season in the Midland Combination Division One. The Fairfield Villa joint manager has re-signed 13 players so far and expects to entice almost everyone back for

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Raunchy cleaners ring up money

A GROUP of business minded pensioners show there's more to them than reminiscing about the good old days in the latest comedy to come to Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre between June 26 and July 1. An industrious group of 70-something cleaners decide to

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Mum's the word for new musical

A MUSICAL charting the life of one Britain's greatest writers is being brought to the stage by two Worcestershire mothers. 'Jane', written by Geetika Lizardi and composed by Michelle Lord, follows a young Jane Austen making her way in the world in the

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Walking the plank

PLAYING pirates has long been a favourite children's game and now there's a chance to learn how to walk the plank, read a treasure map, talk to a parrot and sail a ship. A Pirate School sails into for children aged four years to nine sails in Malvern

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Time to act!

A RECORD number of tickets has already been sold for the Christmas pantomime at Birmingham's Hippodrome Theatre. This year's panto is a spectacular production of Cinderella, starring Brian Conley, who will bring his superb comedy and vocal talents to

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St Catherine's (Blackwell) WI

THE president, Maureen Timmins, presided over the meeting. After welcoming all members, Maureen reminded them of the school fair which will be held this Saturday at which we would be holding a cake stall. Cakes and biscuits can be taken to the stall from

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Bromsgrove Twinners

MEMBERS of the Bromsgrove and District Twinning Association (BADTA) have just returned from a frantic weekend of activities with their hosts across the channel in Normandy. The twinners took part in line dancing, listened to live jazz, studied the history

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Barnt Green Garden Society

AT our June meeting we were treated to a wonderful talk and slideshow by Dr John Page, whose subject was Edwardian gardens. Many of the gardens shown were actually watercolours painted by artists of the time for the gardens' owners and often the lady

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Lickey WI

Lickey WI met at the parish hall on June 6. Final arrangements were made for a coach outing to Trentham Gardens later in the month and for a theatre visit in July. Following the business meeting, Ena Stanworth and Lickey WI president Sue Mayne presented

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Local house was a drugs centre

A POLICE drugs raid discovered a Barnt Green house being used as a cannabis factory. The detached house was raided last Thursday (June 15) as part of a 12-month operation which hit 15 addresses in all, including properties in Redditch, as well as one

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Festival fever strikes 1,500 fun-lovers

AROUND 1,500 people packed in to St Chad's Park to enjoy this year's Rubery festival. The festival was the first major event of its kind in the village since the Rubery carnival in the late 80s. Saturday's event kicked off with a parade through the village

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DVD - Munich (15)

STEVEN Spielberg recreates another harrowing episode in recent Jewish history with this heart-rending account of the aftermath of the 1972 Summer Olympics, at which an extremist Palestinian group called Black September kidnapped nine Israeli athletes

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Anger over kerb cost

MOTORISTS who want dropped kerbs constructed on footpaths outside their homes to enable them to drive unhindered onto their properties are being fleeced, a county councillor claims. Councillor Peter McDonald said he was shocked when following up a complaint

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CD - Primal Scream - Riot City Blues

BOBBY Gillespie and Co have come up with a cracking ninth album. The Scottish rockers have really upped their game with this masterpiece and it shows with almost every track. A highly polished album with a blend of American country, deep south blues and

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DVD - Memoirs Of A Geisha (12)

IN the uncertain years before the Second World War, nine-year-old Chiyo (Suzuka Ohgo) is sold by her widowed father to a geisha house, where she toils night and day for the owner, Mother (Kaori Momoi). Constant run-ins with geisha Hatsumomo (Gong Li),

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Anger over town parking scheme

A ROW erupted at a parish council meeting over a controversial parking scheme. At Stoke Parish Council, some members thought that the Bromsgrove District Council scheme was "disgusting". From May 1, a £30 car parking permit fee is payable for disabled

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New village youth group

HARDWORKING parish councillors have secured a venue for a new village youth group. Stoke Parish Council sent a delegation to put their case forward at Stoke village hall committee's annual general meeting. They said the building was an asset to the community

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Garden experts

GREEN fingered visitors to Hanbury Hall can pick up some top tips from National Trust experts at its Meet the Gardeners Day. Staff and volunteers will be on hand next Wednesday to talk about their work and answer questions at the historic estate near

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Big-hitting Eds held

FIVE Ways OEs smashed more than 300 runs at Division Three basement club Pakshaheen on Saturday but had to settle for a winning draw. Sageer Ahmed struck 53 while Dave Potter led the way with a mighty 110 as the visitors posted 303-7 from their overs.

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Raiders steal pub furniture

A HISTORIC pub has been targeted by thieves who stole more than £1,000 worth of garden furniture. Police are investigating the theft of garden chairs, tables and two distinctive parasols from the Bowling Green Inn, Hadley Heath, on the morning of Tuesday

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Police step up blitz on booze

by Chris Flavell POLICE have stepped up their campaign to deal with alcohol-fuelled incidents in the town's streets and parks. The crackdown comes only a few weeks after the police backed a scheme aimed at promoting a stringent 'No ID No sale' policy

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MBE for woman who really cares

A SPA animal lover was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours after nursing more than 800 dogs and puppies back to health over the past 15 years. Sheila Tremmellen, who lives near Droitwich, has dedicated her life to providing a home for canines

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Blakedown

BLAKEDOWN WI - A Japanese flower arrangement was provided by the president. Recently she and the secretary, Chris Burt, had taken WI entries to the Spring Rally. Carol Jennings won third prize for icing a child's birthday cake, depicting a farmyard scene

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Kidderminster

KIDDERMINSTER MORNING TOWNSWOMENS GUILD - Judy Berrow was the speaker at the May meeting at St Ambrose Church Hall. She accompanied her talk on New Zealand with slides. Members were disappointed to hear that the memorial plaque is still missing from Brinton

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Wyre Forest

SEVERNSIDE RAMBLERS - A walk of about eight miles duration around Morville has been organised for Sunday. Ramblers are asked to meet at the Memorial Park Gates, Park Avenue, Stourport, at 9am prompt. Transport can be arranged. New walkers are welcome.

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50 years ago June 21,1956

A GROUP of 26 members of Bromsgrove Constituency Labour Party visited the House of Commons along with agent Bob Pinfold. Their guide was young Birmingham MP Dennis Healey, who incidentally was a league football referee. Later they were taken to the Strangers

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Police swoop on drug barons

POLICE seized cannabis worth about £750,000 in dramatic raids on properties across Redditch. Addresses around the town were raided on Thursday, including properties in Wordsworth Avenue, Spetchley Close, Loxley Close, Bridley Moor Road and Marlpool Drive

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Old folk setting bad example

WHAT on earth is happening to some members of the older generation at the moment? They seem to be suffering from excessive bouts of rage and a severe lack of courtesy and manners. For example, last week I was going around Crabbs Cross island when an elderly

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Centre's new crowning glory

REDDITCH shoppers should look to the skies in the Kingfisher Centre over the next few months as the roof undergoes a massive transformation. Work started this week on a brand new £400,000 roof in Worcester Square, which will replace the existing outdated

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Fears over Stacey, 15

POLICE are concerned for the safety of a teenage girl from Alvechurch who has been reported missing. Stacey Ravenall, 15, was last seen at her home on Friday. She is white, 5ft 4ins tall with a slim build, shoulder length blonde hair and blue eyes. Anyone

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Wrong jail reffered to

I REFER to my letter published in the Redditch Advertiser (June 14) in support of comments made by the Bishop of Worcester and Bishop for Prisons, the Rt Rev Dr Peter Selby, who had expressed concern about Brockhill Prison, which is to be re-roled as

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Drug tests for drivers

ALL Redditch taxi drivers will now have to take mandatory drug tests if they want to secure their licences and jobs. Last Wednesday, Redd-itch Council's executive committee also agreed to make compulsory medical examinations for taxi drivers more stringent

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Bus lanes cut off the town

YES indeed, drivers using the bus lane. In response to Barrie Wells' letter (Advertiser, June 14) with regard to the amount of people who use the bus lane at the top of EasemoreRoad, is it any wonder? Bus lanes serve an obvious purpose but when they cut

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Back on track with Andy's Fund event

A FUNDRAISER for Alve-church teenager Andy Perrygrove has been rescheduled for this Sunday. Jane and Martin Adams, old school friends of Andy's parents, organised an Autograss racing event earlier this year but their efforts were scuppered by bad weather

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Looked after in the afterlife

I WAS interested to read Stephen Ward's letter (Advertiser, June 7). He writes that, according to national averages, our council is below standard, so is the hospital and our schools and we have an appalling lack of leisure facilities. He fails to mention

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Appeal aids young Kieron

WHEELCHAIR-bound Kieron Hoult has officially received his new trike from the Craig Evans Appeal. Kieron, who has cerebral palsy, is the first person to benefit from the appeal set up in memory of Winyates man Craig Evans. He received his trike from Craig's

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Green space would complement the Palace

WE are in full agreement with Mr Rainbow (Letters, June 14). We, too had a very enjoyable evening at the Palace Theatre's Elgar Concert. As we were standing outside during the interval, gazing at a derelict building site and envisioning an even uglier

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Bus return success

THE RECENT reinstated evening bus service in Matchborough has proved popular with residents. Worcestershire County Council is delighted with the initial take-up of the returned 57/58 service on the Matchborough Circular route, which was put back in place

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Reece's goal is in sight

A FOOTBALL mad youngster from Webheath is hoping to net himself the prize of a lifetime. Reece Daly, nine, a pupil at Oak Hill First School, took part in a weekend training school held in association with Manchester United Football Club. Youngsters who

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Town band set for final

TOWN band Page 44 have fought their way to the final of a Birmingham contest. The group will battle it out in the third and final round of the Emergenza competition at Barfly in Digbeth on Sunday. If they win, the group of four rockers will have the chance

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Alcester & District Local History Society

QUINTIN Watt MA gave an entertaining talk on the Bromsgrove Guild of Applied Arts, which was founded in 1898 by a group of craftsmen and women inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement. Guild historian Mr Watt explained how the firm developed into a thriving

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Pub shines in national finals

AN Alvechurch pub which has been named one of the country's best has raised almost £4,500 for local charities. Licensees of The Crown, David and Tricia Fisher, were highly commended in the national final of pub company Punch Taverns' annual Shine awards

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Quad bike seized

A QUAD bike being ridden illegally by a teenager in Church Hill has been seized by police. Officers used new powers to seize the bike, belonging to a teenage girl, which was being ridden by a 15-year-old boy on a footpath in Exhall Close, earlier this

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New hopes over cancer therapy

A NEW multi-million pound radiotherapy unit set for Worcestershire could help thousands of cancer patients avoid a gruelling journey for treatment. Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust's Cancer Team is drawing up plans to develop radiotherapy services

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Girl grabbed private parts

A REDDITCH man has been cleared of inflicting grievous bodily harm on his girlfriend after a court heard that she grabbed his private parts. Gareth Walters, prosecuting, said Alison McAnulty did not want to continue her complaint against James Huxley.

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Historic Wake set for success

FECKENHAM'S historic annual Wake will take place on Saturday. This year's event, which kicks off at 2pm, will be officially opened by former England cricketer Gladstone Small. The event first started in 1237, when King John decreed a market and fair be

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Tennis fun

WITH the country in the grip of a scorching summer and Wimbledon fast approaching Bromsgrove Tennis Club is hoping to entice more adults into the sport with coaching sessions. Newcomers into the sport will be shown the basics by a qualified coach during

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Merry Wives of Alcester

ON Tuesday, June 6, the Merry Wives had a talk by Graham Sutherland on Wicked Women of the Past. The talk was very interesting as Graham told stories of cruelty and violence these women bestowed upon children and of women who poisoned their husbands with

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Fifth finish

BROMSGROVE Swimming Club finished fifth in the final round of the Nuneaton and District League. The team, which was vying for a third consecutive season in Division One, strengthened their chances of avoiding relegation. With a team that was missing several

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Not too late to sign up to Timberhonger

THE Timberhonger ten kilometre run is set to have even wider appeal in 2006 with a new children's race. Now children under the age of 16-year-old can race over a two kilometre course alongside the main course on Sunday, July 2, at Sanders Park. All competitors

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Village speed limits slashed

A MOVE to lower the speed limits in Bidford has been welcomed. Work to reduce the limits from 60mph to 40mph and from 40mph to 30mph is set to begin next month as part of a county council review. Improvements will also be made to the gateway signs, road

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Take the plunge with group

DISABLED children and their carers are being encouraged to join a swimming group at Hewell Road pool. The Otters Sports and Swimming Club holds sessions for disabled adults, as well as one for disabled youngsters and their families or carers. Chairman

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Wheels in motion

WORCESTERSHIRE County Council is inviting Redditch residents to County Hall for some "wheely" good fun during National Bike Week, which runs until Sunday. National Bike Week is the UK's annual celebration of cycling and aims to get more people cycling

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Tripod seeks treasurer

A REDDITCH-based charity for people with mental illnesses is on the lookout for a new treasurer. Tripod, which helps people across North Worcestershire, needs a volunteer treasurer -- a retired accountant or book-keeper who is willing to give up two hours

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Somme ceremony

ALCESTER residents whose families have connections with the Battle of the Somme are being invited to a wreath laying ceremony. The Alcester branch of the Royal British Legion is joining forces with Alcester Ladies Flower Club in a short service of remembrance

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Piano duo at library

A PIANO duo will be entertaining music lovers with pieces by Brahms and Elgar at Kidderminster Library next week. Michael Jones and Mike Smith will be performing on the Steinway Grand Piano on Thursday, at 7.30pm. The programme will include Mozart's Andante

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Treat for carers at historic court

A DAY out to historic Coughton Court was the treat in store for members of the Worcestershire Association of Carers (WAC). Almost 80 carers and their cared-for enjoyed a day at the National Trust property to mark National Carers Week, including a tasty

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Flower show walk

A BLOOMING marvellous fundraising walk for Alcester's annual flower show takes place on Sunday. Starting at the Conway playing fields in St Faith's Road, the one-mile ramble will follow the river Arrow to Westbury Park before returning to the Pavilion

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An African adventure

A COMMITTED district councillor for Alcester will soon be stepping down from a job he loves to work in an orphanage. Clifford Meade, of Sherwell Drive, has been representing the town in Stratford for the past 22 years but has decided to resign from the