JOHN Thompson has been elected mayor of Upton. This move follows a decision by former mayor Mark Kerrigan to stand down due to work pressures. Coun Thompson was previously deputy mayor, a role that will now be taken by Sheena Walsh.

ELEANOR Grigson is stepping down as co-ordinator for Upton Community Care after ten years. Mrs Grigson will become office manager and Sue Spackman will take over her role. Mrs Grigson said: "It's been a wonderful experience but I think 10 years is long enough for any organisation really. I just thought it was time for someone else to come in."

The sponsored challenge by parents Rupert Chambers and Mike Morgan, who visited 263 of the 275 stations on the London Underground in 24 hours, raised more than £700 for Upton CE Primary School. The money will go towards a project by the friends group to install networked computers in every classroom.

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A PLANT sale will be held at Earl's Croome Village Hall at 6pm on Friday (May 13). Bedding plants, tomato plants and shrubs will be among the items for sale. Proceeds will go to Earl's Croome and Strensham churches.

VOX Femina will give a concert at Upton Parish Church on Saturday, May 14, at 7.30pm. The group will perform a variety of music from Brahms to Cole Porter. Tickets are £5, available from the parish office on 01684 591241, or on the door.

PLANNING consent is being sought for three stables at Welland Court, Upton. Any objections should be submitted to Malvern Hills District Council by Thursday, May 19.

A COFFEE morning will be held at Albion Lodge, Hanley Swan, on Saturday, May 21, from 10am to noon. Admission is £1.