A PEAL of four bells was rung for the first time at Christ Church, in Catshill, to celebrate the church's 139th birthday. The bells were dedicated by the Rev Michael Smith during a special family service organised by the young people's group of the junior church, with their leader Bob Miller.

AT a meeting of Belbroughton Parish Council, members expressed great concern over yet another fatality at Five Ways, Bell Heath, following an accident at the notorious blackspot. Members called for immediate action to be taken in order that the stretch of road did not claim other victims. A letter would be sent to Hereford and Worcester County Council.

RUBERY traders' request for help to fund the Christmas lights was turned down by Bromsgrove Council's planning committee. The authority said there was no provision to help the village Chamber of Trade or businesses in Bromsgrove.

THE battle to save Romsley Hill Hospital went a step further this week when delegates told a Government minister they would not accept the closure of the hospital without further consultation. Representatives from Bromsgrove Community Health Council and several trade unions spent one and a half hours debating its future with a Government minister in London.