I AM concerned that some constituents who have received fixed penalties for breaching the 40mph speed limit on Chester Road South in Kidderminster have written to me saying they have been advised on my behalf not to pay the fine.

This is not the case. They must pay, although I have appealed for leniency as I think that the signage of the change was inadequate.

I have taken up the signage of changes in speed limits with the Minister for Transport as removal of the 40mph sign in an existing 30mph limit is all that is required by law at the moment.

The review of schools in Wyre Forest will take place shortly. Health Concern Councillors are open to listen to arguments for the two-tier system or for retaining the existing three-tier system.

These arguments are finely balanced and our councillors will make up their own minds on which system will be best for our children and pass their views and yours to our county representatives as it is at that level that the decision will be made.

I had a useful meeting with the junior Health Minister, David Lammy MP, who confirmed that local health decisions, as long as they do not breach the NHS Plan or National Service Frameworks, are now in the hands of local people. It is the executive and non-executive directors of our own Primary Care Trust who are now responsible for our health care since the abolition of Worcestershire Health Authority last April.

I enjoyed taking the chair at a seminar organised by the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen's Families Association and the Royal British Legion last week.

This was very helpful and highlighted to concerned groups in the NHS, local councils, Social Services, Wyre Forest Community Housing, charities including the Citizen's Advice Bureau and others that about 14 million of our population are eligible for help from ex-service charitable sources.

The speakers explained what sort of aid is available including help with combat stress and how their services can be obtained.

The Poppy Appeal will soon be with us again and as this provides a large part of these bodies' income it is still as vital as ever even though memories are fading of the last worldwide conflict.

At the time of writing there were still 10 vacancies on a daytrip to London on October 30 to visit the House of Commons in the morning followed by an afternoon at Windsor.

Depart 6.30am by coach and return at about 7.30pm. Please contact Councillor Hinton on 01562 741612 for details.