THE appearance of toadstools and mushrooms was often unexpected and a photo in The Messenger illustrated this point. A fine specimen had emerged from the wooden anvil block in John Martin's smithy in Churchfields, Bromsgrove. The fungus was typical in its orange and sulphur colouring and it had appeared in just a few days.

BROMSGROVE Rovers lost their third successive game, the worst start they had made to a season since 1930, but they had played better at Stourbridge than the two preceding games. There was more solidity about the defence than in the game against Rugby and much more life and vigour among the attackers that had been seen at Hinckley or the Victoria Ground.

AFTER 42 years in the ministry the Rev Chaffer resigned for reasons of health. Mr Chaffer, who had been at Cofton since October 1939, had retired to Sutton Coldfield. The departure meant the church also had to find a new organist as his daughter had filled the post since the war years. On behalf of subscribers Mr Chaffer received a £100 cheque and his wife was given a handbag. His daughter was bought a three row pearl necklace by the choir.

THE Belbroughton branch of the British Legion was very proud of parishioners of the village, Fairfield and Clent after a fete at the recreation ground. After being "cajoled and wheedled" into helping organise the fete many showed up on the day and helped raise around £100. A dancing demonstration of ballet, tap and national dancing held the audience enchanted. There was also a display of horsemanship, a fancy dress contest, raffle and homecraft competition.