A "PROCLAMATION for Pardoning Deserters" was published in the Journal for this week of 1802 when the nation was enjoying a short break in its years of war with France.

The proclamation stated: "Whereas it has been represented to the King that there are several deserters from the different Regular Corps of His Majesty's Services who may be induced to return to their duty on offer of a pardon, His Majesty has been pleased to grant his Gracious Free Pardon to all deserters who shall surrender themselves before a due date to the Commanding Officer of any Regiment. They shall then be returned to the regiments from which they deserted."

Also on the military front 200 years ago, the Journal carried a further public notice: "The Worcestershire Yeomanry Cavalry - Every member of the Corps is earnestly requested to be punctual in joining the Corps, well mounted and fully armed, in front of the Guildhall in Worcester at 10 o'clock on the appointed day to be trained and disciplined under their own officers for four days. Signed: Samuel Dangerfield, Sergeant-Major."