A very happy new year to both my readers! At the time you will be reading this, I shall be in Australia getting a few rays and hopefully having a good time.

I think if I could have a choice of any venue in the world that I could run, it would be the Sydney Opera House. I love the building, I love the city and I certainly love the climate.

Ah well, everybody should have their dreams at the beginning of a new year!

I would like to start 2006 by thanking the large number of volunteers who help at the Hall, the Swan and during the city's festival.We have well over 150 people who give their time for nothing - at the Hall and the Swan, they perform the role of front of house stewards at both venues, and staff the bar at the Swan.

It is incredibly vital work for our organisation, and we really could not do it without them. If you are interested in helping give Ashley a ring on 01905 726969.

Everybody has a New Year resolution - mine is to try to get Shirley Bassey to perform in Worcester for George Cowley!