Stories for 24 November 2006

Business

New sales avenue for chain

WH Smith has opened up a new sales avenue by announcing plans for 50 units in motorway service areas.  more...

Lifting firm appoints a new chief

BROMSGROVE-based lifting specialist Oktopus UK has appointed Andrew Hinton-Sheley as head of its cranes division.  more...

Beauty centre opens in hills

LOOK a little lovelier for Christmas now that a new clinic has opened in Malvern offering men and women a comprehensive range of skin, hair and dental aesthetic treatments.  more...

Cinema

The White Countess

A screening of The White Countess (15) takes place at Ledbury's Market Theatre on Sunday (November 26), at 7pm. Tickets on 01531 632769.  more...

Crime

Sex pest offered girl money to pose for photos

A SEX pest from Wilden Top who terrified Worcester women after asking to take their photographs for a bogus model agency dramatically changed his plea yesterday during a trial.  more...

Facing jury trial

A KIDDERMINSTER teenager is to be tried by a jury at Worcester Crown Court on a charge of unlawful wounding.  more...

Dave Bradley

Dave Bradley - Friday feeling.....

Why can't we park cars in this country ? In the last week I have been on three car parks that do not have lines on them. And it's amazing how much room people take up when they don't have lines to park in.  more...

Education

Meet the arty pupils who’ve drummed up cash for their school

Young drummers, breakdancers, actors and film-makers have scooped £6,500 for their Worcester school.  more...

General

Chris reaches for the stars

A FUTURE star from Hartlebury's New Elizabethan School is relishing his chance to shine when he takes to the stage for his first professional pantomime.  more...

Chris reaches for the stars

A FUTURE star from Hartlebury's New Elizabethan School is relishing his chance to shine when he takes to the stage for his first professional pantomime.  more...

John Phillpott

Caught in a web of shopping

IT'S not that often I get caught on the hop, but on this occasion I was taken well and truly by surprise. And it's not as if it hasn't happened before, so there are no excuses. So how on earth was I suckered into going shopping with my wife and youngest daughter?  more...

Caught in a web of shopping

IT'S not that often I get caught on the hop, but on this occasion I was taken well and truly by surprise. And it's not as if it hasn't happened before, so there are no excuses. So how on earth was I suckered into going shopping with my wife and youngest daughter?  more...

Kidder News Latest

Adventure of a lifetime

DARING grandmother, Elaine James, is revving up for a 3,700-mile car ride through landmine-infested desert and rough terrain.  more...

Stop the press – kiosk gets new lease of life

A 1940s newsagents kiosk, believed to be the last remaining in the country, has been given a new lease of life at Severn Valley Railway.  more...

Anger at police response to theft

A MOTHER-of-three has criticised the police for failing to attempt to gather forensic evidence after £2,500 of fishing tackle was stolen from her garden shed.  more...

Frustration at police response to theft

A MOTHER-of-three has criticised the police for failing to attempt to gather forensic evidence after £2,500 of fishing tackle was stolen from her garden shed.  more...

Residents call for traffic lights

ALTERATIONS to a Kidd-erminster road junction have created an "accident waiting to happen" according to nearby residents who fear someone will be killed.  more...

New Year resolution for pipe works

MORE misery is looming for motorists in Kidderminster with work to lay water pipes set to close Comberton Road for three weeks in the New Year.  more...

Tesco increase parking time

SUPERMARKET giant Tesco has given in to customer pressure and increased the free parking at its Kidderminster store from two to three hours.  more...

Generation game in Kidderminster street

NEWBORN baby Gia has given her family extra reason to celebrate as the latest in seven generations to have lived in the same Kidderminster street.  more...

Latest

Man dies in house blaze

AN ELDERLY man has died and another man needed hospital treatment following a severe house fire in a village near Worcester.  more...

Man dies in house blaze

AN ELDERLY man has died and another man needed hospital treatment following a severe house fire in a village near Worcester.  more...

Lucky dog is rescued from burning home

A LUCKY dog has been rescued from a burning house in Worcester.  more...

Orchestra back in the spotlight at gala concert

THE English Symphony Orchestra (ESO) makes its return to the concert platform this weekend as a re-structured organisation with an exciting future.  more...

Clee through in Junior Vase

Clee 16 Bloxwich 5 CLEE progressed to the next round with a tense win over Bloxwich in the edf Junior Vase on Saturday.  more...

Smash and grab for three points

LUDLOW staged a smash-and-grab raid at fellow strugglers Shawbury on Saturday in their West Midlands Premier six-pointer.  more...

Grants could be the reel deal for cinema

By John Corness TENBURY Town Council is to try to secure grants to refurbish the Regal cinema.  more...

Spa label puts town in price-rise top 10

HOUSE prices in Tenbury Wells have rocketed by a staggering 87% in the past five years, according to latest figures.  more...

£30,000 may mean a new future for mistletoe market site

A MAJOR revamp costing almost £30,000 has transformed the former livestock market at Tenbury Wells in time for the world-famous holly and mistletoe sales this Christmas.  more...

£15,000 set aside by council for vital community groups

MALVERN Hills District Council has set aside £15,000 as part of the Community Grant Scheme for local voluntary and community groups and charitable organisations to help fund projects or pay for equipment.  more...

United back to winning ways with home win

TENBURY United returned to winning ways on Saturday to begin pulling clear of the danger zone in the West Midlands League Division One.  more...

Latets

Tribute to wife who 'made life interesting and fun'

THE heartbroken husband of a Alvechurch-based cosmetic surgeon to the stars killed in a motorway crash has paid tribute to his wife who "made life interesting and fun".  more...

Drink-drive mechanic 'deserved jail sentence'

A MECHANIC who works in Redditch drank 15 pints of beer the night before he crashed into two vehicles during a police chase.  more...

Leisure General

Artistree

LEDBURY-based artists' group Artistree has launched it Christmas exhibition at Ross Library. This runs until Saturday, December 2.  more...

Ceroc

A Christmas party for fans of the dance craze ceroc takes place on Friday, December 1, at the Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham. A fun dance class kicks of the evening at 8pm, followed by dancing until midnight. Entry £9 (members £8).  more...

Raku exhibition

THE ceramic art of raku is the focus of an exhibition at the Gallery at Bevere, Worcester. The technique, which originated in Japan, represents the battle between fire and smoke. Raku pieces by Claire Yates, Tim Andrews, David Jones and Emma Johnstone will be on display from Saturday, December 2 to Thursday, December 30. For details, call 01905 754484.  more...

Local scenes inspire Anna to create her art

STUNNING landscapes featuring the Worcestershire countryside are featured in an art exhibition at Dripshill House, Hanley Castle.  more...

Letters

Computer games are causing bad behaviour

SIR - One of the biggest problems our society faces today is youth violence and anti-social behaviour.  more...

Country is sliding towards the abyss

SIR - Reader John Shearon writes (Letters, November 18) "For the last 10 years the country has been on a steady keel. Let's hope it stays that way".  more...

Parking is not our problem, traffic is

SIR - I would like to address your recent article on the university sports pitches plan (Worcester News, November 22).  more...

Democracy has not spoken on school

SIR - I must challenge Brian Hunt's assertion that the residents of St John's have "overwhelmingly and democratically" supported the retention of Christopher Whitehead school on its present site (Letters, November 11).  more...

Cyclists should pay like motorists do

SIR - I am fed up with the motorist being targeted for this that and the other - the cost is endless.  more...

Cyclists should pay like motorists do

SIR - I am fed up with the motorist being targeted for this that and the other - the cost is endless.  more...

Life is hard but it’s what you make it

SIR - Someone told me it is easy for me to say "life is good" (Letters, November 9) as I have good health, and no wife to hassle me.  more...

Priests should wed

SIR - The Catholic Church preached that marriage is a good institution for bringing up a family.  more...

Poppy service hymn change?

HAVING just returned from attending the Remembrance Sunday service outside St Mary's Church, Kidderminster, it is noticeable that the numbers are increasing each year, both in the parade and the public attending, particularly younger people.  more...

‘Imaginary’ danger road

I WISH to respond to last week's article Dicing with Death and Nigel Knowles' campaign to install traffic lights on the A442.  more...

Need for care with wording

WHILE I agree with Nigel Thomas's letter Continuing rape of Stourport (Shuttle, November 16), I found his wording insulting.  more...

Swift action on river barrier

THANK you for your report and picture in last week's Shuttle regarding the broken handrail and steps by the river on Severnside North, Bewdley.  more...

Roadworks – we’re all part of problem

MANY readers will no doubt share the sentiments expressed in your correspondent's letter concerning seemingly never-ending roadworks.  more...

Taking pride in cycles recycled

THROUGH your columns, I'd like to recommend that anyone in this area who is considering buying a bicycle should visit Spokes based on Worcester Road, Kidderminster.  more...

Second town cinema would be over-supply

WE keep being told that councillors are planning another cinema in the Worcester Street complex in Kidderminster.  more...

So lucky to have our hospital

WE are always hearing criticism of our NHS but I would like to give it some praise.  more...

Decision is morally wrong

WHAT a disgrace to think the Conservative administration on the district council can even contemplate closing Stourport Civic Centre. Is this the thanks we get for voting them in?  more...

How to drive stores out of our town

IT is very difficult to understand why some councillors wish to drive Morrisons out of town. (New store hits listing snag, Shuttle, November 2) Surely they can remember what happened to Waitrose when they had no room to expand.  more...

Good example

WHAT a shame more companies don't do the same as Malvern Hills District Council. I used the telephone service to pay my council tax. It was engaged. Instead of the usual music and frequent interruptions, saying how we value your call etc, it was nice to be able to leave my telephone number so they can ring me back, which they did within five minutes!  more...

Soft options

IF the West Mercia Safety Camera Partnership is serious about curbing speeding motorist, station themselves outside my front gate on Wells Road and catch the real speedsters instead of the good people of Welland and surrounds going about their local shopping.  more...

Cameras work

I NOTED two items in the Malvern Gazette (October 25) related to road safety.  more...

Traffic concern

I have no objection to the new Lidl store, in fact I welcome it, because I along with many other council estate residents require a choice to enable our wages or pensions to sustain our ever decreasing level of living by careful management.  more...

Stop whinging!

I'm writing in response to your front page article last week about the Lidl store that will soon be opening in Malvern Link.  more...

Stop whinging!

I'm writing in response to your front page article last week about the Lidl store that will soon be opening in Malvern Link.  more...

Ashamed by response

WHILST shopping at Morrisons supermarket on Remembrance Sunday an announcement was made asking customers to join staff in two minutes silence as a mark of respect for all those who have given their lives during times of war.  more...

Changing room policy needs review

I AM writing following the publication of the article (Ledbury Reporter, Novem-ber 17) regarding Ledbury Primary School's boycott of Ledbury Swimming Pool.  more...

Right to refuse to use pool

AS an ex-teacher at Ledbury Primary School, I was shocked to read the school had suspended swimming lessons.  more...

Lifestyle

I’m pregnant – so what can I wear to the party?

GLITZY, glam clothes dominate the High Street fashion stores at the moment as we go headfirst into the Christmas party season.  more...

Memory Lane

Echoes from the Past

100 years ago Mr F C Selous, the celebrated South African pioneer, hunter and naturalist, will give his great lecture, Tales of Travel and Sport, at the Assembly Rooms on December 4. This will be the third winter lecture of the present series and will be illustrated with limelight views. Mr Selous, who from his youth was possessed by a passion for wandering, began his career of adventure in South Africa in 1971, at the age of 19. Malvern News, November 24, 1906.  more...

Local residents incensed over ‘slum’ claim

A ROW broke out in the pages of the Gazette 50 years ago after one part to the town was labelled "almost a slum".  more...

Martin was man who ‘built’ town

THE death of a prominent citizen of Malvern, whose name is still remembered today, was reported in the Gazette 50 years ago.  more...

Full steam ahead for royal engine

TONY Clay of Merton Road brought in this picture he took on May 19, 1973, showing the steam engine Black Prince heading for the tunnel through the Malvern Hills on its way to Hereford.  more...

Music

Fab four coming to the cathedral

THERE will be plenty of X appeal' in Worcester this Christmas as former X-Factor contestants pay a visit to the city's famous cathedral to put on a festive show.  more...

Fab four coming to the cathedral

THERE will be plenty of X appeal' in Worcester this Christmas as former X-Factor contestants pay a visit to the city's famous cathedral to put on a festive show.  more...

WIN a date with a new musical Legend

MUSICAL superstar John Legend rounds off his four-date UK tour at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on Wednesday, December 20 - and you could be going for free.  more...

WIN a date with a new musical Legend

MUSICAL superstar John Legend rounds off his four-date UK tour at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on Wednesday, December 20 - and you could be going for free.  more...

Say hello to Dolly, all the way from the Far East

SHE has worked with everyone from Belinda Carlisle and Mike Oldfield to Michael Bolton and the James Taylor Quartet, touring across the globe - and now Dolly James is set to pay a visit to Worcester for a gig.  more...

Worcester's top ten albums

Brought to you in association with Face The Music in the city's Cathedral Plaza.  more...

Christmas concert

WYRE Forest Symphony Orchestra will be welcoming the festive season at its annual Christmas concert at Kidderminster Town Hall on December 2.  more...

Big band sounds

FANS of big band sounds will be in for a treat when the Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra swing into Kidderminster.  more...

Students are maintaining high standard

THREE talented students from the prestigious Birmingham Conservatoire will be wowing music fans at Kidderminster Library tomorrow night.  more...

Nightjar Folk Club

THERE is a rare opportunity to see Blake's III at The Nightjar Folk Club, in The Courtyard, Hereford, on Thursday, November 30, at 8pm. Formed over 20 years ago in Herefordshire, their music has a unique quality incorporating folk, blues, jazz, cajun, baroque, rock 'n' roll and more. The wonderful acoustic setting in the studio should show the elusive trio's vocals and instrumentation at their best. Tickets are £5 (concessions £4).  more...

Penyard Singers

Penyard Singers will join forces with the Cheltenham Symphony Orchestra in a concert at Ledbury Parish Church tomorrow (Saturday), at 7.30pm. The programme will include works by Beethoven and Hummel. Tickets are £10, with concessions for free entry for children. Advance tickets are available on 01531 633814.  more...

Pat Travers

Rock guitarist Pat Travers is at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall tonight (Friday), at 8pm. Travers has toured with some of the biggest names in rock and played some of the biggest venues and festivals all over the world. Tickets are £14 on 01905 611427.  more...

Duo on six-month break

ACOUSTIC duo A&E will play their last gig in the area for the next six months at the Red Lion pub, in Powick, tonight (Friday).  more...

Singers in festive mood

THE Hills Singers will stage their Christmas concert at St Leonard's Church, Newland, on Saturday, December 9, at 7.30pm.  more...

Pianist makes romantic choice

Serbia's most exciting pianist Deyan Sinadinovich will give a recital of romantic music at Huntingdon Hall, Worcester, on Wednesday (November 29), at 8pm.  more...

String session

WORCESTER Classical Guitar Society will hold its autumn concert at St Martin's Church, London Road, Worcester, on Sunday (November 25), at 7.30pm, Members will play a variety of pieces, ranging from Baroque to Latin American and modern.  more...

Setting scene for Christmas

MALVERN'S Aldwyn Voices will present their annual Sequence of Music and Literature for Christmas at Tewkesbury Abbey on Sunday, December 10, at 3pm.  more...

ESO to light up the priory

A candlelit concert with the English Symphony Orchestra and The English Chorale takes place at Great Malvern Priory on Saturday, December 2.  more...

News

Brown and Powell back for Warriors

A NEW-LOOK Worcester Warriors side will take to the field against Saracens at Vicarage Road tomorrow (2pm) for the first game of the post-Anthony Eddy era.  more...

Windo comeback will be big boost for Warriors

JOHN Brain cannot emphasise enough the importance of having veteran prop Tony Windo back involved with the first team.  more...

Ward happy to sign his new City contract

DEFENDER Graham Ward has spoken of his delight at securing a permanent deal with Worcester City.  more...

Brain has Warriors quit offer rejected

JOHN Brain has promised to bring a direct style of rugby back to Sixways after having his offer of resignation rejected by club chairman Cecil Duckworth.  more...

Brain has Warriors quit offer rejected

JOHN Brain has promised to bring a direct style of rugby back to Sixways after having his offer of resignation rejected by club chairman Cecil Duckworth.  more...

No rush to find Eddy replacement

WORCESTER Warriors will not make a knee-jerk reaction by rushing into appointing a replacement for sacked head coach Anthony Eddy.  more...

Whitehead keen to clean up against Boro

STUART Whitehead has set his sights on clean sheets and keeping his nose clean as Harriers play host to fellow under-achievers Stevenage Borough on Saturday.  more...

Swifts expect a Frost reception on Saturday

STOURPORT Swifts boss Phil Mullen has bolstered his squad with the signing of former Stourbridge utility man Steve Frost.  more...

Opinion

A great new gadget – it’s called a map

Technology doesn't always make people's lives better, as the residents of West Malvern Road have discovered to their cost.  more...

Santa calling in

FATHER Christmas will visit a Christmas fair at the Memorial Hall in Upton on Saturday, December 2. The fair, for Longdon St Mary's Primary School, runs from from 10am to noon with stalls selling items such as cards, cakes and jewellery. There will also be children's games, a raffle and refreshments.  more...

Opinion

IN 2002/03 the number of employees of Worcestershire County Council being paid is excess of £50,000 a year was 38; in 2005/06 that figure had risen to 105.  more...

Restaurant Reviews

Stuck upstairs without the party atmosphere

BOMBAY PALACE, 38 THE TYTHING, WORCESTER Tel: 01905 613969  more...

Reviews

Handel’s Tolomeo - Review: Malvern Theatres

A RARE treat for Malvern audiences was the English Touring Opera's performance this week of five Baroque operas by Cavalli, Monteverdi, Purcell, Carissimi and Handel.  more...

To Kill A Mockingbird - Review: The Everyman, Cheltenham

TO Kill A Mockingbird is a powerful and moving production with an outstanding performance from Duncan Preston as lawyer Atticus Finch.  more...

Round-Up

Pershore job for Hunt

NEIL Hunt takes charge of his first game as Pershore Town manager this afternoon.  more...

England call Russ but Dean struggling

TWO Kidderminster Harriers players have received mixed news.  more...

Hereford’s progress pleases Turner

GRAHAM Turner believes Hereford United can take heart from their showing in Coca-Cola League Two this season.  more...

University must wait for sports pitch plan

THE University of Worcester will have to wait a little longer before finding out if it can go ahead with plans to create 11 new sports pitches in Battenhall.  more...

Play area will get a £60,000 new look

A KICKABOUT area on Worcester's Ronkswood estate will be given a £60,000 revamp after the city council cabinet approved the plans.  more...

Play area will get a £60,000 new look

A KICKABOUT area on Worcester's Ronkswood estate will be given a £60,000 revamp after the city council cabinet approved the plans.  more...

I need your help to be named Miss England

A RECEPTIONIST's hopes of being crowned Miss England hang in the balance, and she needs the help of Worcester News readers.  more...

I need your help to be named Miss England

A RECEPTIONIST's hopes of being crowned Miss England hang in the balance, and she needs the help of Worcester News readers.  more...

Police to speak again to park rapist’s victim

WEST MERCIA Police have vowed to contact a woman who was raped 25 years ago to discuss her concerns about how the case has been handled.  more...

Children learn about recycling

PUPILS at a school in Worcestershire have been learning all about how to recycle, re-use and save the planet as a part of an eco-awareness week.  more...

Lorries are making our lives a misery

LORRY drivers following their sat-nav systems are making life a misery for residents in a narrow Malvern street.  more...

Rudolf will touch down at centre

A PAIR of reindeer will be flying by a Worcester garden centre with Santa this weekend.  more...

Museum is a happier work place for us now

WORCESTER Porcelain Museum is a happier and warmer place to work despite a top television ghostbuster's failed bid to banish a spook which has been haunting its premises.  more...

Plans to slow the traffic on city road

A TRAFFIC-calming scheme has been developed for a Worcester road in a bid to reduce speeding.  more...

Trekking in Cambodia for charity

AN adventurous musician has returned from a trip of a lifetime trekking through Cambodia for a charity.  more...

Trekking in Cambodia for charity

AN adventurous musician has returned from a trip of a lifetime trekking through Cambodia for a charity.  more...

Family day will feature past life in the county

A FREE exhibition of archaeological artefacts is being held by Worcestershire County Council at Upton-upon-Severn memorial hall on Sunday, December 3, from 10am until 4pm.  more...

TENBURY: Town waits to see if grants will pay for cinema facelift

TENBURY'S landmark Regal cinema could be smartened up - if the town council can scoop grants to pay for the refurbishment.  more...

Fears growing over four-year leadership slot

BOSSES at Worcester City Council have sounded a note of caution over a new Government White Paper which promises to make the leader more powerful.  more...

Charter spells out pupils’ message on anti-bullying

YOUNGSTERS at a Worcester school have pledged their determination to beat bullying by making a charter.  more...

Charter spells out pupils’ message on anti-bullying

YOUNGSTERS at a Worcester school have pledged their determination to beat bullying by making a charter.  more...

Revamp sets up site for festival

A MAJOR revamp costing almost £30,000 has transformed the former livestock market at Tenbury Wells in time for the holly and mistletoe sales this Christmas.  more...

Open night offers landowners chance to register their acres

LANDOWNERS in Hereford and Worcester are being urged to take advantage of a voluntary land registration initiative offering them certainty and security about the property they own.  more...

Scheme to clean and tidy villages to continue

A SCHEME to help keep villages in Worcestershire clean and tidy is set to continue next year despite fears the funding would be cut.  more...

Scheme to clean and tidy villages to continue

A SCHEME to help keep villages in Worcestershire clean and tidy is set to continue next year despite fears the funding would be cut.  more...

Vera has cause for one big celebration

A STOURPORT woman who was still disco dancing in her 80s raised a glass to celebrate her 102nd birthday.  more...

Sex in the unfaithful city with our Rosa

IF YOU want to find out more about sex in the unfaithful city try reading our first Worcester News blog.  more...

Boxing clever

PUPILS from St Andrew's First School got into the Christmas spirit by taking part in this year's Operation Christmas Child campaign.  more...

Runners brave the bad weather

MEMBERS of Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletic Club (B&R) braved one of the coldest Saturday's of the year so far in the Gloucester Cross-Country League in Cheltenham.  more...

Addict dad stole mail

A HEROIN addict and father-of-two stole mail from a post box after his son found a key on the ground, magistrates heard.  more...

Parking is free for weekends

MALVERN Hills District Council is again offering shoppers a Christmas present this year, in the form of free car parking.  more...

Bring an appetite to the switch-on!

LOCAL businesses will open late and serve up an array of festive food during Malvern's Christmas lights switch-on.  more...

Traders enter the festive spirit

MALVERN traders are entering into the festive spirit with a Christmas Window competition.  more...

Switch keeps the town full

MALVERN town clerk Richard Chap-man has outlined the decision to move the fireworks display in Priory Park from its traditional Friday night slot.  more...

Causing a huge flap!

YOU will not have to be eagle-eyed to spot some unusual guests at the Malvern Christmas event this year.  more...

New stars also have green tint

GLISTENING stars will again light up Malvern this year following the Christmas lights switch-on on Friday, December 1.  more...

Closures in place for event

ROAD closures will be in place during the Malvern Christmas lights switch-on event on Friday, December 1.  more...

TIMETABLE

Great Malvern Christmas lights switch-on extravaganza Friday, December 1 3pm: Children's funfair opens in Church Street. Charity market opens at the Lyttelton Well.  more...

Buttons delighted to flick the switch

LIGHTS, music and festive cheer will be in abundance during Great Malvern town centre's Christmas extravaganza.  more...

Father Christmas gets some help

THREE primary school children will have the honour of standing alongside Father Christmas and switching on Ledbury's festive lights on Sunday.  more...

Lovely Christmas in the community

LEDBURY'S new rector The Rev. Paul Dunthorne says it will be a privilege to experience his first Christmas here.  more...

Lonely bird pines for its absent mate

A LONELY bird is pining for her mate who escaped from an aviary Barnards Green.  more...

Musician backs arms control

MALVERN musician Ben Okafor has put his name to a letter congratulating campaigners on achieving a vital first step to global controls on the arms trade.  more...

Romania trip will help poor

MALVERN charity worker Christabell Wilson will spend her Christmas break in Romania, giving presents to orphans and food to poor families.  more...

Champagne prize for lucky winner

Customer Bert Black won a four-course Champagne dinner for two at the Nags Head after entering a charity competition run by the pub.  more...

Guild celebrates its ruby anniversary

MALVERN Townswomen's Guild celebrated its 40th anniversary last week at the United Reformed Church Hall, Malvern Link.  more...

Councils defend wages of £50,000

MALVERN Hills District Council and Worcestershire County Council have defended the growing number of employees commanding salaries of more than £50,000.  more...

Dome to stay put for now

THE future of one of Malvern's most distinctive buildings, the Edinburgh Dome, looks safe for the time being.  more...

Leah fifth generation of family

MARY Armstrong, of Welland, became a great-great-grandmother when baby Leah Jones was born last week.  more...

Pub event goes down a treat

A SPANISH wine tasting dinner, the first of what promises to be series of themed evenings at the Wellington Inn, near Malvern, went down a treat with customers last week, writes Nick Howells.  more...

Rare butterfly is thriving on hills

A RARE butterfly whose numbers are declining across the UK is booming on the Malvern Hills.  more...

Hair-ing out to support BBC appeal

MALVERN people were as enthusiastic as ever in their support for the annual Children in Need appeal on Friday.  more...

Wait over for award winner

FORMER Malvern College pupil Duncan Higgins has finally received his gold Duke of Edinburgh Award after a two-year delay.  more...

School rated among Britain’s best

Wyche CE Primary School has been rated among the country's most outstanding schools.  more...

Pair to lead way with new charity

MALVERN physician Geoff Douglas diagnosed the first ever HIV infection when working in Africa in 1986.  more...

Lorry chaos blamed on bad SatNav

LARGE lorries directed along West Malvern Road by satellite navigation systems are causing chaos for residents and motorists.  more...

Risk rises

POLICE are warning owners of satellite navigation systems to remove equipment from unattended vehicles, following a dramatic rise in thefts in the last six months.  more...

Death charge

A TEENAGER has appeared at Worcester Crown Court after a fatal road accident on the A438 near Eastnor Castle on July 15.  more...

Hotel is likely use for abbey

StanbRook Abbey in Callow End is likely to become a hotel.  more...

Outstanding apprentices pick up awards

MALVERN apprentices Paul Tustin and Thomas Lancey have both been given awards for their outstanding work.  more...

Council scraps £6m plan for new office

MALVERN Hills District Council has made a dramatic U-turn over plans to build a new £6.5 million office.  more...

Nomination was a total surprise

A MALVERN gymnastics coach is in the running to receive a prestigious sports award.  more...

Innovative firm fuels the future

A NEW company based in Bransford has started to produce what may turn out to be one of the fuels of the future.  more...

Roundup

More families to be helped by scheme

MORE Wyre Forest families in need of support will be given a helping hand after 13 new volunteers qualified to work with the district's Home-Start.  more...

Don’t leave unwanted crutches at home

FORMER physiotherapy patients in Wyre Forest who have crutches or walking sticks and frames they no longer need are being urged to return them.  more...

Tory’s trip to trouble spots

WYRE Forest Conservative Mark Garnier has returned from a four-day fact-finding tour of Israel, where he visited several notorious trouble spots.  more...

Ju-jitsu: Hannah grabs gold

HANNAH Smith grabbed a gold as Stourport UK Kickboxing showed their fighting spirit with five medals at the National Ju-Jitsu Championships in Worcester.  more...

STOURPORT SCOUT & GUIDE CHRISTMAS POST

STOURPORT SCOUT & GUIDE CHRISTMAS POST SITES OF POST BOXES Abberley Abberley Garage Abberley Stores (posting only) Areley Kings Londis, Areley Commmon Taylors Newsagents, Areley Common Windmill C of E Middle School (stamps from Mrs Ready in the Office) Windmill Flowers, Queens Road Astley Astley C of E Primary School (stamps from Ms Pearce in the Office) Dunley Fields Garage & Service Station Great Witley Eric Firkins Farm Supplies, Worcester Rd Great Witley Filling Station Health Centre, Worcester Road Shrawley The Walnut Cottage Kindergarten, Old School Stourport-on-Severn A & G Print, York Street Anne's Hair Design, Brindley Street Beard's Electrical, High Street C.N.A. News, Minster Road Mr Clean Call, High Street Old Rose & Crown Public House, Worcester Road Old Kyle Stores, Kylemilne Way Pet & Garden Supplies, Tan Lane Spar, Lower Lickhill Road Stourport News & Off Licence, Bewdley Road The Flower Cellar, High Street   more...

Quad bike raiders hunted

RAIDERS who got away with two £1,000 Supremo quad bikes in Stourport are being hunted by police.  more...

Theatre

Dr Who’s friend Billie falls for the office bore

POP princess turned Doctor Who companion Billie Piper is set to star at the Malvern Theatres next year.  more...

Music will get you in the festive spirit

GETTING theatregoers in the mood for the festive season are the Midland Musical Theatre Group.  more...

Keep it simple and make it swing with the Back to Basie band

JAZZ fans can look forward to swinging into Christmas Basie-style.  more...

Poet Hegley is coming to raise a laugh

HE has nine books to his name, not to mention two albums and one mug.  more...

Art on offer in the Courtyard

CONTEMPORARY art is transforming the Courtyard in Hereford.  more...

Acorns concert

A NOT quite Christmas concert is going raise money for Acorns Children's Hospice. The Pershore Rotary Club concert, taking place at the Number 8 Community Arts Centre, featuring the Alcester Victoria Silver Band, is on Monday, December 11, at 7.30pm.  more...

Jill tackles REP's Chekhov

FORMER Strictly Come Dancing Winner, and soap star, Jill Halfpenny is set to take on her first serious theatre role next year when she appears in a new production of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya at the Birmingham REP.  more...

Young cast loves a comedy day out

YOUNGSTERS are leading the way in the latest production by the Malvern Wells Players.  more...

Players tackle classic farce

Classic farce Charley's Aunt will be the next production by the Bosbury Players.  more...

Season packs in star names

MALVERN Theatres' 2007 programme is packed with exciting new productions and big name stars, as well as a few old favourites.  more...

Upton

£500 for light fund

UPTON Town Council has agreed to pay £500 towards the town's Christmas decorations. The Tourism and trade association is again planning to deck out the town with miniature Christmas trees hung with white lights, at an estimated cost of more than £2,000. The council agreed to award the grant, subject to town clerk Gill Jennings receiving more detailed proposals.  more...

Change of job

UPTON Community Support Officer Emma Burrows has left her post to start training as a police officer. Upton PC Mark Taylor thanked her for her hard work and said a full-time replacement would soon be in place. He said: "Emma has remained with West Mercia, where she hopes she will have a local posting. I wish her all the best in her new career."  more...

Winter warmer

Everyone is invited to enjoy a warming winter drink at a coffee morning at Ripple Parish Hall tomorrow (Saturday), from 10am-noon.  more...

Setting up stalls

A Christmas fair by Queenhill Church takes place at the Memorial Hall on Saturday, December 9, from 9.30am to noon. It will feature a raffle and stalls selling toys, novelties, bric-a-brac etc.  more...

Coach stop called for

COACH giant National Express is to be asked to create a new stop in Upton.  more...

School packs in fun

A HISTORICAL and fun-packed day is in store at Upton Primary School tomorrow (Saturday).  more...

Marina decision due

A SPECIAL meeting of Malvern Hills District Council's planning committee will make a decision on controversial plans to extend Upton Marina.  more...

Craft fair

UPTON 50 Plus Club will hold a Christmas craft fair at the Memorial Hall tomorrow (Saturday), from 10am to noon. A range of Christmas gifts will be on sale, along with a raffle and refreshments.  more...

Hoping to net more

MEMBERS of the Hanley and Upton Cricket Club are hoping Santa will bring them some new players this Christmas.  more...

PC wants to know concerns

POLICE are urging Upton residents to tell them of any problems in the community they would like addressed.  more...

Song Luke’s festive gift to aids charity

IT may not be a contender for the Christmas number one spot, but an Upton teenager hopes his festive single will strike a chord with the local community.  more...

Villages

West Malvern

IDENTIFYING ground-up breakfast cereals and solving dingbats were among the odd tasks set at last Saturday's Cricket Club quiz by Bob and Val Blackbourn.  more...

Welland

The Friends of Welland coach trip to Bath on December 2, has had to be cancelled due to lack of interest. The Friends, however, are looking forward to the carol singing night starting and ending at The Pheasant on December 20. This is always a fun evening for all the family!  more...

Staunton and Corse

FOR the first time in 18 years, it is with regret that Staunton and Corse Amateur Theatrical Society are unable to present their annual pantomime, this year Aladdin, due to lack of cast members. They will hopefully will return next year, but Roy Goddard tells me that instead of the pantomime, SCATS will be holding a karaoke night on Saturday, December 9 in the village hall, when they will much appreciate your support. Tickets are available from Staunton Post Office or Roy Goddard.  more...

Redmarley

TOMORROW (Saturday), St Bartholomew's Church holds its Christmas fair at the village hall at 2pm. Father Christmas will be there and, as always, there will be a large variety of stalls, including tombola, Christmas decorations, toys, books, cakes, produce etc and also a lucky dip and grand draw, as well as glass and china, knitted and fancy goods and refreshments. It is a good chance to do some Christmas shopping in a very congenial atmosphere.  more...

Malvern Wells

The Tea Club has been suspended until the end of January. Barbara Savery hopes a few more people will join in the New Year.  more...

Colwall

THE next meeting of Colwall Parish Council will be on November 29 at 7.30pm at the village hall.  more...

Bosbury

LAST Friday's fundraising bingo in aid of the parish hall raised £277, the committee are most grateful to Mrs Bon Jones and family for organising the evening.  more...

Berrow

HAVING successfully raised £290 at the last jumble sale at the village hall, Janet now moves on to her main jumble sale for CLIC tomorrow (Saturday) at 2pm. Janet urgently needs jumble and raffle prizes for this event so have a pre-Christmas clear-out and bring your items along during the morning.  more...

What'S On

GIG GUIDE

tonight Nigel Clark (ex Dodgy) - Marr's Bar, Pierpoint Street, Worcester.  more...

Theatre Guide

NOVEMBER 24 Cavalli's Erismena Sung in English by the English Touring Opera at Malvern Theatres.  more...

Concerts Guide

NOVEMBER 24 Live at Lunchtime Mozart 250th Birthday Celebration Concert at Birmingham & Midland Institute, Margaret Street, Birmingham, from 1.10-2.10pm.  more...

Exhibitions Guide

UNTIL NOVEMBER 25 The Pilgrimage Books An exhibition of artists' books, at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum.  more...

Events Guide

NOVEMBER 24 Son et Lumiere A spectacular evening of sound and light in St Clement's Church, Worcester, at 7.30pm. Light refreshments available. Tickets available on the door.  more...

What's on

Cinemas Malvern Cinema: Casino Royale (12A) Daily 7.15pm, Sat mat 4pm, Sun & Thurs mats 3.30pm.  more...

  
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