A FORMER leader of the Hereford and Worcester County Youth Orchestra is returning to his roots to give a celebrity recital at the Elgar Birthplace Museum.

Michael Heald, who is currently professor of violin at the University of Georgia is crossing back across the "pond" for a Golden Jubilee performance on Monday, June 3.

Mr Heald will be accompanied by Liana Embovica-Rivkin, a past winner of the National Piano Competition in her native Latvia, for the concert which starts at 7.30pm. Their programme begins with works by Schubert and Beethoven and will also include Elgar's violin sonata.

"Michael grew up in Hereford and we're very pleased he has included us on our United Kingdom tour," said Catherine Sloan, museum director.

"He was a regular member of the English String Orchestra and of the Elgar Music Group with Louis Carus and also played with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra."

Admission programmes for the concert are £7.50 and on sale from the museum in Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath, or by calling 01905 333224.

New shower

PLANNERS at Wychavon District Council have received an application from Shorthill Nursery in Crossway Green, Stourport-on-Severn.

Owners want to build a replacement shower and toilet block.