WORLD famous opera singer Patricia Rozario will be performing at the Artrix on Friday, November 11. Rozario joins forces with the Vanburgh Quartet to perform a host of opera classics written by Beethoven and other well-known composers, as part of Bromsgrove
Wednesday, November 9 CINEMA: Oliver Twist, Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove (7.45pm start). THEATRE: My Fair Lady, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Thursday, November 10 MUSIC: Quicksilver, Bromsgrove Folk Club, Finstall Park, Finstall
LORD of laughter, Jasper Carrott, returns to Birmingham with his Rock With Laughter show at Birmingam NEC this week. The line-up of music includes celebrity band G4 (pictured left), world-famous tribute band the Bootleg Beatles, and Irish dance sensation
TALENTED young musical actors are getting ready to strut their stuff on a Droitwich Spa stage this month. Members of the Norbury Theatre youth section will perform The Boy Friend for three nights from Thursday, November 17 to Saturday 19. Featuring superb
IT may be big-name TV stars who sell productions like this, but it's often actors who are not household names who grab the attention once the audience are in their seats. So it is with this exquisite rendition of Sheridan's Georgian comedy of manners,
THE third instalment of the epic's second trilogy has completed every Star Wars fan's collection, but true lovers of George Lucas' masterpieces will probably stick with the idea that the original three were the best. Revenge of the Sith again blesses
Bromsgrove 0, Evesham Ladies 2 ON A wet and windy Satur-day morning Evesham produced their best form of the season. Right from the start they played confident, tactical hockey and good accurate passing resulted in lots of possession as the visitors easily
Droitwich II 1, Badsey Ladies 1 BADSEY were denied victory when they conceded an equ-aliser in the last minute of Saturday's absorbing encou-nter. Droitwich put the visitors under pressure from the first whistle with some quick incisive passing but disciplined
Evesham II 5, Old Wulfs II 3 SATURDAY'S West Midlands Division One league clash started evenly but the visiting front line caused Roger Hemming, Rich Haines and Matt Haines plenty of problems. Wulfs went ahead from a short corner then soon doubled the
Bromsgrove Rovers 1 Willenhall Town 4 Southern League Division One West ROVERS' soft centre was cruelly exposed by rugged Willenhall Town, as their promotion hopes were struck with another hammer blow at the Victoria Ground on Saturday.KEPT OUT OF DANGER
Pershore II 1, Stafford II 4 PERSHORE'S bid for promotion stalled on Saturday when they took on a strong Stafford side with several players unavailable. The hosts were quickly on the back foot with a disrupted back four taking time to settle in to their
HARRY Lowden, a 67-year-old retired teacher and social worker, volunteers as a befriender at The Foundation, a charity supporting people with HIV in Worcester. He befriends people with HIV and spends time assisting them with anything they need - from
WORLD famous opera singer Patricia Rozario will be performing at the Artrix on Friday, November 11. Rozario joins forces with the Vanburgh Quartet to perform a host of opera classics written by Beethoven and other well-known composers, as part of Bromsgrove
A national campaign to encourage more people to volunteer as mentors and befrienders is being tested in Worcester. The city is one of four - the others are Lincoln, Carlisle and London - where volunteering charity TimeBank is running pilot scheme. If
A DREAM has come true for a Worcester composer whose music will be played alongside Elgar in the city's cathedral. A 45-minute requiem mass by Amanda Ballard, a singing teacher at St Mary's Convent School, Battenhall, Worcester, will share the stage with
Redditch Utd 1 Stalybridge Celtic 4 WRETCHED defending proved Redditch's nemesis once again as they crashed to defeat at home to their Tameside visitors. Just seven days earlier Rod Brown's outfit had swept aside fellow strugglers Hyde but hopes of recording
BROMSGROVE Rovers will be out for revenge and to consign Evesham to a fourth successive first hurdle knockout fall of the season when they visit Common Road later this month. Defeated by the Robins in last season's epic Play-off Final, Bromsgrove stand
BATTLING Sean Flynn looks to have played his final game for Redditch United. And former skipper Matt Clarke could also be on his way leaving Valley Stadium boss Rod Brown without two of his star performers over the last few seasons. Former West Brom and
A SUPERB display from Redditch Ladies saw them beat Worcestershire Division One leaders Harborne 2nds 3-1. The Bromsgrove Road side produced their best hockey of the season to claim all three points. In a fast free-flowing game, they tore into their opponents
SCHOOLS: Kingsley College students Hannah Sidlow, Kirsty Fleeman and Katy Hambleton came second in the recent Worcestershire Schools Trampolining competition. And Dave Clifford has been selected for the county's u15s rugby squad.
Wednesday, November 9 Mrs Brown's Last Wedding, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Until November 19. Tickets on 0870 607 7533. The Life of Galileo, Repertory Theatre, Broad Street, Birmingham. Until November 12. Tickets on 0121 236 4455 or www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
RESIDENTS claim parking problems in Headless Cross are causing accidents and upsetting other local people. They want their own car park at the junction of Birchfield Road and Middlepiece Drive. But they say the Corporation is wasting money on landscaping
Wednesday, November 9 CINEMA: Oliver Twist, Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove (7.45pm start). THEATRE: My Fair Lady, Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Thursday, November 10 MUSIC: Quicksilver, Bromsgrove Folk Club, Finstall Park, Finstall
Football: Midland Alliance STUDLEY'S Keiron Cross proved a reluctant match-winner for the club's latest cup scalp, according to manager Kevin Rowlands. Cross was not named among the visitors' five penalty takers in last week's Worcestershire Senior Cup
July 2005 (friendlies) Tues 19 Alvechurch (a) 2-1 Martin 2 WEDS 20 TAMWORTH (H) 0-1 SAT 23 Leamington (a) 2-1 Ball, Pinkney TUES 26 MOOR GREEN (H) 2-1 Duncan, Ball SAT 30 WORCESTER CITY (H) 0-0 August TUES 2 REDDITCH UTD (H) 1-1 O'Toole THURS KIDDERMINSTER
YOUNGSTERS at a Redditch school were celebrating after retaining their district seven-a-side crown. The Year 7 footballers from Ipsley Middle School saw off teams from the town's other schools to land the silverware. And they celebrated with a meal at
Football: Leisure Leagues THE Lions of St George looked the part on Sunday afternoon after they beat Sickadem 5-3 in the Premier Division. The Lions were cheered on by mascots Lucy and Hannah who did not stop singing all game and can feel proud of the
Redditch Utd 1 Stalybridge Celtic 4 WRETCHED defending proved Redditch's nemesis once again as they crashed to defeat at home to their Tameside visitors. Just seven days earlier Rod Brown's outfit had swept aside fellow strugglers Hyde but hopes of recording
Droitwich women's 1st IX 4 Stourport women's 2nd XI 4 HANNAH Weston bagged a late equaliser for Spa as they earned a point in a packed match in the County League on Saturday. Weston scored late on to ensure it was honours even. Linzi Deacon opened the
MUSIC lovers in the town can look forward to a treat from top cellist Ulrich Heinen this Saturday. As part of Redditch Music Society's concert programme, Mr Heinen will perform a range of music by Schumann, Webern and Janacek, as well as Debussy's Cello
BROMSGROVE Rovers will be out for revenge and to consign Evesham to a fourth successive first hurdle knockout fall of the season when they visit Common Road later this month. Defeated by the Robins in last season's epic Play-off Final, Bromsgrove stand
Alcester 2000 0, Evesham Utd Jnrs U-9 12 GOALS flooded in as United produced another impressive league display to easily overcome the home side. Joe Millar led the goal spree with five goals, while jake Seymour wasn't far behind with a four-goal haul.
Oldbury Park Tigers 3, Evesham Utd U-12 B 0 UNITED were forced on to the back foot but solid defending from Sam Penfold, Josh Woods, James Brown and player of the match James Hitchman kept the Tigers at bay. However, a mistimed challenge brought Oldbury
WORCESTER City will pocket a £75,000 TV windfall if they conquer Chippenham Town in five days time. BBC chiefs have confirmed screening live action of the FA Cup clash involving Huddersfield Town, who travel to City or Chippenham on Sunday, Dec-ember
ANDY Preece admits his side is facing a gruelling fixture back-log following Worcester City's postponed clash at Redditch United last night. Officials called off the Nationwide North derby fixture at 6.10pm due to a waterlogged pitch. Heavy rain led to
DIVISION Three side Gardeners Arms caused a major upset in the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League Knockout Cup. They knocked out Evesham WMC from Division One with the goals coming from Haughty (two) and Griffiths. Upton Snodsbury comfortably reached
Banbury Utd 3, Evesham Utd 2 ANOTHER penalty, another red card and another odd goal defeat. That was the tale of another tortuous Tuesday for the Robins who should really have taken all three points, writes Mervyn Collins. They twice came from behind
Chesham Utd 0, Evesham Utd 2 by Mervyn Collins FIREWORKS night produced a spark-ling display as the introduction of a couple of fresh faces looks like igniting United's season. Matty Lewis and John Williams both made impressive bows but it was scorer-in-chief
NINETEEN-year-old Faisal Sha-hid has been awarded a scholarship with Worcestershire for the 2006 season. Shahid, from Smethwick, was a graduate of Worcestershire's Cricket Academy in 2004 and plays for Halesowen in the Birmingham League. He has also played
DROITWICH Spa have been handed a tough home draw against free-scoring Brackley in the Powergen Junior Vase fourth round. The Northamptonshire outfit are top of East the Midlands and Leicestershire One after winning their first five games and scoring 242
Chaddesley Corbett U10s 25 Alcester U10s 0 CORBETT enjoyed the greater cutting edge in a hard fought game and scored a late flurry of tries. Louis Ellesmore and Zach Walker scored touch downs early on. After Corbett had weathered a sustained period of
IN this age of bad news, lack of trust in people, cons, muggings etc., I would like to say thank you to a few heroes I met recently. I took my three boys into Hanbury Woods, a place that we often visit andwhich has brought us much fun and pleasure over
WE would like to say 'thank you' to everyone who supported the Race Night in aid of Multiple Sclerosis at the Labour Club in Bromsgrove. We raised a grand total of £271.42 and we would like to thank all the sponsors - Video Races, Black Cat Computers,
THANK you for printing my letter last week under the heading - Tragic Tale. Yes, my father's death was a tragedy to his loved ones, but instead of anger I feel inspired to take action so his death was not in vain. We can all make a difference, even in
HOPEFULLY the person who stole £135 from an elderly person's purse at about 10.30am. on Sunday morning at ASDA supermarket, will 'rot in hell.' Let it be a warning to vulnerable and other OAP's shopping at supermarkets at this time of year. BB Sidemoor
I WAS appalled to read that it is being proposed to cut a large number of services at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, and transferring them to Worcestershire Royal. I remember when Bromsgrove had at least six hospitals taken from them with the promise
AFTER reading comments in the press from various people, I can only say that it never ceases to amaze me that if you have something that works fine you than find someone always seems to move the goalposts. All they look at is monetary aspects and they
I AM greatly concerned by the news that Worcestershire Acute Hospital NHS Trust is considering closing local A&E, cancer surgery, critical care, etc., and moving them to Worcester. Firstly, the Worcestershire Royal Hospital is a long way from the
THE men and women living here at Rosebank are all supporting your campaign to 'Save our Services'. This is a complex of the over-70s to the 90s age group who regularly attend the Alex for different reasons. As the warden here, I feel very afraid for my
BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackie believes that his side has ten games to stop promotion slipping away from them in the Southern League Division One West. Rovers are badly lagging behind in the race to escape the division after failing
Bro msgrove Rovers 1 Willenhall Town 4 Southern League Division One West ROVERS' soft centre was cruelly exposed by rugged Willenhall Town, as their promotion hopes were struck with another hammer blow at the Victoria Ground on Saturday.KEPT OUT OF DANGER
Barnt Green 3 Castle Vale 0 IN-FORM striker Kevin Brookes remained on the goal trail with a brace at Lye Meadow on Saturday. The striker, who joined the club from Oldbury two weeks ago, made it three goals in two games since joining Spartak. Brookes scored
ALCESTER'S u13s played host to Old Leamingtonians and the visitors ran out 37-0 winners in torrential rain. The home side were defending their unbeaten record but never found their stride with Old Leams scoring early on. Good tackling from Jack Green
AFC GOLDEN Lion progressed into the second round of the LMS Shield by defeating Crabmill 3-1. James bagged a hat trick to cancel out Kings' goal for Crabmill. In the Bromsgrove Advertiser/Messenger League Division One British Oak edged out Cofton Falcons
HOGGSHEAD lost to Abbeydale in the second round of the Terry Cup in the Redditch and South Warwickshire Combination League. Bromsgrove Athletico cruised into the cup's fourth round by inflicting a 6-2 defeat on Austin Ex-Apprentices. In Division Two Millfield
GOALSCORERS 6 - Banner. 5 - Hadland, Danks 4 - Dyer. 3 - Curtis, Barnes-Homer. 2 - Smith, Ramsay, Szewczyk. 1 - Collins, Johnson, Mitchell, Maguire. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 3 - Hadland 3 - Dyer 3 - Johnson 2 - Evans 2 - Banner 2
THE Droitwich Canals Trust would like to thank everyone who phoned in to ITV's People's Millions lottery programme on November 1 to 'vote for the boat'. Thanks to this tremendous support we were successful in winning the £50,000 on offer. We would also
RECENTLY Exel (Droitwich) held a charity football event when more than £5,000 was raised on the day. As a company and part of the Droitwich community we would like to say a special thank you to Richard Morris (the town's Mayor), Droitwich Leisure Centre
CAPTAIN Chris Wright handed out the men's pri-zes at Broadway following the ladies presentations by their captain Rita Smith. The John Freeman Trophy for the four best medal rounds for players under 15 handicap went to Ashley Powell, while the Jim Fraser
BREDON Buzzards Under-10s earned a late call-up to the North Midlands Festival and returned home triumphant. In wet and miserable conditions, the boys won all three of their league games before defeating Bromsgrove B in the quarter-final to book a date
fResh from a triumphant run in London early in 2005, Kneehigh Theatre brings passionate love story Tristan and Yseult to the Birmingham Rep this month. The epic love story, based on an age old tale from Cornwall, charts the story of war embattled King
TALENTED young musical actors are getting ready to strut their stuff on a Droitwich Spa stage this month. Members of the Norbury Theatre youth section will perform The Boy Friend for three nights from Thursday, November 17 to Saturday 19. Featuring superb
SIR - The leadership race is an election the Tories will win. But how tiresome that it's going to be for the next two months. Then how long before the knives start to go into the winner's back? JOHN SHEARON, Worcester.
Evesham Youth AC DUNCAN Field was the winner of the junior section in the battle for the Bill Sollis Trophy that was fished on Manor Farm's Ash Pool on Saturday. The winner saw off the challenge of Robert Thompson to claim top spot, while Andy Beasley
SIR I was so interested in Mike Layland's memories recounted to the Worcester News as I can relate to all his recollections, especially Sammies as I lived opposite to this lovely school and have had a most enjoyable childhood there. Other things I can
Evesham and District Disabled Club and Partnership's MEMBERS faced a miserable morning at Oakham Farm Pools near Welles-bourne last Sunday for another round of the Fiesta cakes Autumn League. Fish came fast and furious for Wayne Panting who netted a fine
THIS month's subject is the world famous Ffestiniog Railway in Wales. This narrow gauge line has a lot of history attached to it. Our speaker, Robert Smallman, will be giving the slide presentation, the Ffestiniog Railway before it got its second F, so
THE October meeting was preceded by a harvest lunch, which was enjoyed by all. The meeting started at 2pm when Ms J Ashman was introduced to give a presentation on the work carried out by the County Air Ambulance. There was a short film and description
SIR Regarding the young man who gave away £20 notes in the High Street. Why didn't he do the responsible thing, and give the money to Oxfam or Cancer Research? GEORGE COWLEY, Warndon, Worcester.
SIR I am delighted to have the opportunity to express my total support for this year's Poppy Appeal. The Royal British Legion assists not only ex-servicemen and women affected by the world wars and conflicts over the years, but also those injured or traumatised
THE president, Maureen Smith, warmly welcomed the members to the meeting. A letter had been received from the speaker of the September meeting thanking Sidemoor WI for its support of the Lifeboat Association and for its warm welcome to her. Birthday greetings
SIR The front page news (Monday, October 24) about the hunt using birds of prey to continue their sport disgusted me. The words of the great Oscar Wilde spring to mind when he described hunting as "the unspeakable in pursuit of the un-eatable." MRS S
TRAFALGAR'S 200th anniversary was celebrated in style by the Worcestershire branch of the Association of Wrens with lunch at the St Andrews House Hotel, Droitwich. It was funded by Home Front Recall, part of the National Lottery, and the hotel had decorated
A DEDICATED deputy head has scooped a top gong for his work with Duke of Edinburgh award pupils. Paul Copeland, from South Bromsgrove High School, has been awarded the Paul Harris Fellow by the Bromsgrove Rotary Club. The school is the largest awarding
THE intrepid manager of a Bromsgrove firm will take the plunge today and attempt to be the first man to swim two miles across one of Britain's most dangerous stretches of water. Dean Sargeant, aged 38, will follow the old pre-bridge ferry crossing when
A PINT down the Labour Club became a family toast for two men who discovered they were related after being friends for 12 years. Mike Cox, from Highfield Road, and Geoffrey Simpson, from Millfields, have regularly drunk together in Bromsgrove's Labour
A BROMSGROVE woman said goodbye to the hustle and bustle of factory life after 54 years. Doreen Ward, from Rock Hill, Bromsgrove, has worked at B Sanders, on the Aston Fields industrial estate, ever since she left school aged 15. She originally made buttons
YOUNGSTERS are making life unbearable for residents on a Bromsgrove housing estate by playing on a builders' large storage container. But a district councillor's swift intervention should soon see the problem solved. People living near the container,
A BROMSGROVE man has continued a 100-year tradition after taking over as the blacksmith at Burcot Forge. David Franklin took over the business in Alcester Road, Burcot, at the start of October. The father of two lost his job at MG Rover when the Longbridge
KIND regulars at a Spa pub had a close shave when they raised more than £1,000 for charity. Landlady Sue Barber had her head shaved to raise the funds at the Fox and Goose pub, Farmers Way, Westlands, on Sunday, October 30. All money raised will go towards
BROMSGROVE drivers are being urged to prepare for bad winter weather. North Worcestershire police traffic management officer Julian Turner says the British winter weather is unpredictable and that bad weather can strike suddenly. Drivers need to keep
A DRUNKEN warehouseman jailed for gouging the eye of innocent stranger - causing him to lose half his sight - has been granted a cut in his sentence by Appeal Court judges. Gary Keith Skinner, 44, attacked building surveyor Jeremy Ross - sticking his
CRIME in Bromsgrove has been cut by 18 per cent, or the equivalent of close on 800 offences in 12 months, official figures just released reveal. The Home Office's British Crime Survey shows that from October 1, 2004, to September 30, 2005, the Bromsgrove
SPECIAL lights dedicated to loved ones will again be shining in Droitwich Spa this Christmas. Lights of Love will be seen in all their glory when the St Richard's Hospice Christmas tree lights are switched on in December. Readers are invited to take part
TRAGEDY struck at Droitwich Spa Rugby Football Club when a respected and well liked player and coach died after suffering a heart attack during a match. Mark Edwards, 42, took to the field for what was to be his final game on Saturday, October 29 for
A ROAD safety investigation is being carried out in Droitwich following a fatal accident. Father-of-three Brian Peckham, from Meadow Place, Westlands, was killed after a horror crash on the A38 Droitwich by-pass. The retired mechanical and electrical
THE group determined to save the heritage of Droitwich Spa lido has published a book to highlight the historical importance of the site. The Friends of Droitwich Spa Lido and Its Park will be selling copies of 'Droitwich Sea Bathing Lido 1935-2005' after
Kidderminster 4, Evesham 0 EVESHAM continue to struggle as they suffered another defeat and are still awaiting their first league victory of the season. Manager Martin Husbands conceded: "We're in a period of transition at the moment and there's no denying
Banbury Utd 3, Evesham Utd 2 ANOTHER penalty, another red card and another odd goal defeat. That was the tale of another tortuous Tuesday for the Robins who should really have taken all three points, writes Mervyn Collins. They twice came from behind
WITH Remembrance Day on Sunday, may I take this opportunity to urge everyone to support, however they can, this year's Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. This year is the 84th anniversary of the Legion, during which time the Poppy Appeal has helped to
PETE Bond, captain of Wyre Piddle Cricket Club since 1993, has stepped down after another successful season in charge. At the club's annual dinner, the 70-year-old was presented with a club cap and invited to become the inaugural president. Bond has single-handedly
Worcester City 3, Evesham Utd U-15 1 SATURDAY'S was an end to end game in the Midland Junior Premier League with both sides creating, but failing to take their early chances. Scott Andrews created a lot of problems for the home team's defence but it was
THE next meeting of the Mercian Festival Junior League is on Sunday at the Bell Inn, St Johns, Worcester. The start time is 8pm and it's important that all clubs are represented.
GARDENERS Arms caused a major upset in the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League's Knockout Cup by knocking out top flight Evesham WMC. The third division side's goals came from Haughty (2) and Griffiths on a day when Upton Snodsbury had
REDDITCH'S dog warden has been shocked by the number of stray animals which have been found following the bonfire weekend. Julie Edmonds said it was a "record weekend" with 11 dogs being found, one of them in a very poorly state. Some owners have been
A MOTORCYCLIST and pillion passenger were both seriously hurt in an accident on Woodrow Drive on Monday. The collision involving a red Kawasaki motorcycle and a blue and grey Rover happened near to the Jolly Farmer pub at 5.20pm. The man riding the motorbike
A CONVICTED drug dealer from Redditch has been ordered to pay back more than £3,000 or face another three months in prison following a police investigation into his financial affairs. Gavin Stringer, aged 25, of Abberley Close, Church Hill, and Manor
THIEVES broke into a coach at Redditch United's Football Club's ground in Bromsgrove Road at the weekend and stole a variety of items. The theft happened between 1.45pm and 5.25pm on Saturday as a match between Redditch United and Stalybridge Celtic took
A REDDITCH landlord is mounting a campaign to stop taxi drivers charging festive revellers double fares. For the second year running, Brian Farmer at the Seven Stars pub is collecting signatures opposed to Redditch Council registered taxi drivers' plans
THE proposed Bordesley bypass could cost Redditch Council up to £10.7 million - a far cry from the £4.6 million originally earmarked. Worcestershire County Council has told Redditch Council that until the Abbey Stadium development gets under way, the
A REDDITCH businesswoman claims the cash-strapped Alexandra Hospital made it so difficult for her to hold fundraisers in its name she decided to give the proceeds to other charities. Ruth Bains wanted to hold four events to promote her new holistic therapy
THE October meeting was held at the home of Maureen Hill. James Holloway, the Conservative Agent for Stratford, gave a very interesting talk on events concerning the party leadership. Ian Hyde then gave a short talk on his recent visit to the Tory Conference
THE third instalment of the epic's second trilogy has completed every Star Wars fan's collection, but true lovers of George Lucas' masterpieces will probably stick with the idea that the original three were the best. Revenge of the Sith again blesses
WE had a very successful Osteoporosis Day last month when 38 members were screened. We had walks organised by Jill Woolley and five members attended the autumn council meeting at Stourport which was thoroughly enjoyed. Wine and cake were consumed on the
THIS double disc features the six episodes created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, the geniuses behind The Office. The duo struck comedy gold with the documentary-style series about the employees of a Slough paper merchant and their hapless manager
WONDERING what became of that old flame is something we are all guilty of once in a while. Did they marry? Are they fat? Did they ever learn to screw the cap back on the toothpaste or do they still leave it to ooze out all over the side of the washbasin
FOUR friends raised pots of cash for the victims of the earthquake in Pakistan and India. Armed with collection buckets, Sabrina Tamez, Samera Akhlaq, Mishba Ishaq and Fozia Bibi, all students at NEW College, took part in a mad dash around the Peakman
AT our October meeting our speaker, Ingrid Walden, took us back to the early 16th century, for which she was suitable dressed. She gave us an insight into the clothes, fashions, beliefs, living conditions and trade - she appeared as Hope the Pedlar. We
THERE was no fight outside the Nags Head pub in Studley last weekend, say police. Insp Emma Walton was investigating reports of a fight involving up to 20 people outside the Redditch Road pub on Friday, October 28, but said she could find nothing to prove
DROITWICH Spa's disabled swimmer star Kim Briggs ended a difficult year by winning a host of medals in recent weeks.BACK IN THE SWIM: Kim Briggs returned after a run of injuries to win four medals. Briggs, aged 17, overcame a host of injuries, which effectively
TEAMS from the Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis League clashed in the Clements Cup. In the round's closest game Arrow Vale C edged Droitwich Eagles C 5-4. Droitwich Hawks were too strong for Droitwich Dragons - winning 8-1. Barnt Green A overcame
SCORES of arts fans flocked to an exhibition at Studley Parish Hall. Talented members of the Studley Art Circle showed off their work at an annual show, which attracted more than 250 visitors. The exhibition held in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief included
THE role of women in society will be discussed at a seminar at Redditch Town Hall at the weekend. Redditch MP Jacqui Smith will be just one of the speakers at the national event, which takes place on Saturday from 9.30am-4pm. Other speakers include social
A REDDITCH charity for the homless is making safety the priority and asking for donations of fire extinguishers and first aid kits. Redditch Nightstop, which provides emergency accommodation for young homeless people, is looking for town businesses and
CATALOGUING unexplained activities in the night skies above the UK has been the 11-year project of Alvechurch couple John Hanson and Dawn Holloway. They have spent more than a decade researching and compiling accounts of unidentified flying objects since
FIREFIGHTERS were called to pump out flood water from six gardens in Alvechurch. A crew went out to Buckley's Green on Monday afternoon. A spokesman at the fire station did not know what had caused the flood.
ARTISTIC pupils at Webheath First School have struck gold after being awarded a top accolade. Redditch MP Jacqui Smith presented students with their Artsmark Gold award last Monday. The award, handed out by the Arts Council, recognises schools particularly
SEVERAL Redditch police officers and staff have received awards for their hard work and dedication to the job. The awards were presented by divisional commander Chief Supt Mark Howard at a ceremony at West Mercia Constabulary's headquarters. Pc Stuart
THE town council has enlisted the support of a regional body in its battle to get Alcester's annual maintenance grant reinstated. Councillor Chris Gough told the council at a recent meeting he had gained the support of the Warwickshire and West Midlands
IN Bromsgrove and the surrounding district, in spite of heavy rain which fell much of the day, Remembrance Day services were well attended. In Catshill the service was held in Christ Church. It had been intended that the congregation should proceed to
AT North Bromsgrove Urban District Council the sanitary committee heard there had been 15 births and ten deaths registered in the district in October, compared with 11 births and 13 deaths the year before. Mortality had been very high, but this had been
EVESHAM Junior 15 rowers took Henley-on-Thames by storm last Saturday when they claimed the top three places in the single sculling event and top spot in the coxed quad at the Henley Sculls Head. This prestigious annual event is staged over 3,000m on
Birdseye Sports Evesham Ladies League Results - Knockout Cup first round: Oddfellows B 7, Plum Tree 2; Avon Social C 4, Evesham WMC 5; Round of Gras B 3, Talbot (Pershore) 6; Railway Hotel 4, Coach & Horses 5; Hampton 7, Bretforton SC 2; Horse and
ELEVEN mad Eve-sham Wheelers set off in Sunday's heavy rain towards the coffee stop at Hailes Abbey via Beckford, Ashch-urch, Fiddington, Got-herington, Gretton and Toddington. The return route was straight back to Eve-sham due to the wret-ched weather
LATEST action in the Cotswold Floorball League started last Thursday when Willersey visited Campden for a club session and their league match the same night. They kept the game scoreless for the first ten minutes but succumbed to two well-taken goals
A 12-YEAR-old Bidford girl answered the front door at her family home to find a carrier bag engulfed in flames about 3ft high at the weekend. Police were called to the home in Laurence Way at 5.43pm on Sunday. A gang of four or five youths had been seen
REMEMBRANCE Day will be marked in and around Alcester with a number of parades and services on Friday and Sunday. The town's branch of the Royal British Legion will hold a Remembrance Parade and two-minute silence on Friday. Anyone is welcome to join
FARM businesses planning to boost income by diversifying are being urged to make sure that their expectations are realistic and their planning foolproof before taking the plunge. Although almost half of all farm firms in the UK are supplementing their
ROBERT Wiseman Dairies today posted a 22 per cent fall in profits and said tough trading conditions will force it to review milk prices in the coming months. Glasgow-based Wiseman, which runs a plant in Droitwich, said it was selling its milk at a "significant
A PRISONER who escaped near Salford Priors a fortnight ago has been arrested by Northamptonshire Police. Carl Townsend, 23, who escaped from a prison van by tricking a guard into opening the door of his cell, was arrested at an address in Northampton
STOURPORT-on-Severn contractor Thomas Vale is celebrating after winning one of the most prestigious awards in the industry. The firm beat off stiff competition to win the training title at this year's Contract Journal magazine awards, held at the Grosvenor
WORCESTER City will pocket a £75,000 TV windfall if they conquer Chippenham Town in five days time. BBC chiefs have confirmed screening live action of the FA Cup clash involving Huddersfield Town, who travel to City or Chippenham on Sunday, Dec-ember
ANDY Preece admits his side is facing a gruelling fixture back-log following Worcester City's postponed clash at Redditch United last night. Officials called off the Nationwide North derby fixture at 6.10pm due to a waterlogged pitch. Heavy rain led to
EXTRA seats are being added to Elton John's concert in Worcester after the star's army of fans turned ticket lines "red hot" on the opening day of sales. The New Road gig was originally going to have a 15,000 capacity, but the rock legend and Oscar-winning
ON-STREET parking in parts of Warndon Villages is so bad residents fear people will die because emergency vehicles cannot get past. Many of the roads at the southern end of the Villages are congested during the day because employees of nearby businesses
THE people of a Worcester street have been celebrating after a second attempt to knock down two Victorian houses and replace them with a block of flats was dismissed. In May, city council planners refused an application to demolish two homes in Battenhall
DIGNITARIES and leading fire officers were out in force at the official opening of the fire brigade's new £6.5m headquarters this week. The new offices, in Charles Hastings Way, Warndon, have housed Hereford and Worcester Fire And Rescue Service staff
ALCESTER is set to see a boost following the appointment of a new enterprise officer. Carolyn Smith will be responsible for promoting the town and its surrounding villages and countryside, as well as increasing the membership of Alcester Chamber of Trade
SHOPAHOLICS are being reminded to stay alert over the festive season - thanks to special bells on offer from Warwickshire Police. Officers will be handing out the bells, which will be attached to purses to act as a deterrent to thieves. Ch Insp Mike Slater
A RENOWNED performer, who made his name on hit television show That's Life, is to perform at Bromsgrove Folk Club tomorrow night. Grant Baynham, who became famous for his comedy songs on the BBC show in the 1980s and 90s, will be performing as part of
HUNTINGDON Hall is gearing up to welcome the biggest musical legend ever to grace the Worcester city centre stage. Blues legend Van Morrison has confirmed he is to play two shows at the intimate 350-seater venue on Sunday, December 11, in an unusual departure
Wednesday, November 9 Mrs Brown's Last Wedding, Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Until November 19. Tickets on 0870 607 7533. The Life of Galileo, Repertory Theatre, Broad Street, Birmingham. Until November 12. Tickets on 0121 236 4455 or www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
ST Luke's Memorial Hall is set to welcome a pair of internationally renowned Appalachian music and dance professionals all the way from the USA. Ira Bernstein and Riley Gaugus (pictured above), between them boast more than 50 years of music and dance
MUSIC lovers in the town can look forward to a treat from top cellist Ulrich Heinen this Saturday. As part of Redditch Music Society's concert programme, Mr Heinen will perform a range of music by Schumann, Webern and Janacek, as well as Debussy's Cello
fResh from a triumphant run in London early in 2005, Kneehigh Theatre brings passionate love story Tristan and Yseult to the Birmingham Rep this month. The epic love story, based on an age old tale from Cornwall, charts the story of war embattled King
A DROITWICH model club sets sail to show off its impressive collection of marine models. Droitwich Model Boat Club will be one of the major attractions at the Model Boat Show between November 11 to 13 at Warwickshire Exhibition Centre. The show is the
THERE will be an abundance of art when Lickey Parish Hall hosts the 23rd annual art exhibition between November 12 and 13. The exhibition, organised by the Lickey Hills Arts Society, will have over 150 pictures on display, in styles as diverse as watercolours
Stour Valley Rotary Club is holding another fundraising event at Hagley Community Centre, this time a Music Quiz and Fish & Chip Supper on November 11. A range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s will be used so the evening has something to suit
THIS double disc features the six episodes created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, the geniuses behind The Office. The duo struck comedy gold with the documentary-style series about the employees of a Slough paper merchant and their hapless manager
WONDERING what became of that old flame is something we are all guilty of once in a while. Did they marry? Are they fat? Did they ever learn to screw the cap back on the toothpaste or do they still leave it to ooze out all over the side of the washbasin
THIS film lacks atmosphere, intrigue and adventure and that one element that all horror films should have - something to scare the audience. Edward Carnby (Christian Slater) is a paranormal investigator. As a child, Carnby lost his parents and was sent
East Gloucester 2, Bretforton Ladies 2 BRETFORTON made a promising start with Sophie Corbett, Lisa Workman and player of the match Deb Slatter combining well in midfield. Neat passing play penetrated the East Glos defence on several occasions but shots
Balsall & Berkswell 2, Pershore 2 PERSHORE stumbled but didn't fall in Saturday's crucial Coa-ching Solutions West Midland Division Two fixture. First advantage went to the visitors when quick thinking by the roaming defence saw Garth Rushton release
A PURPOSE-built village for 1,400 migrant workers near Leominster has been ordered to be torn down after a long-running legal battle. S&A Property's retrospective application to build at Brierley Court strawberry farm was thrown out by the Office
A RENOWNED performer, who made his name on hit television show That's Life, is to perform at Bromsgrove Folk Club tomorrow night. Grant Baynham, who became famous for his comedy songs on the BBC show in the 1980s and 90s, will be performing as part of
A CAT-loving family fear a 'catnapper' is on the loose in Worcester after two of their pets have gone missing in the space of eight weeks. Karen and Ian Turner, of Essex Close, Dines Green, and children Leanne and Joseph were upset after their 12-year-old
HUNTINGDON Hall is gearing up to welcome the biggest musical legend ever to grace the Worcester city centre stage. Blues legend Van Morrison has confirmed he is to play two shows at the intimate 350-seater venue on Sunday, December 11, in an unusual departure
ELDERLY people wanting to keep live-in wardens at their sheltered housing schemes were today due to appeal directly to the board of Worcester Community Housing. The housing association is proposing to replace resident wardens at 13 sheltered housing schemes
GOVERNORS at an under-threat Worcester school have sent a letter to education chiefs arguing why it should not be merged with its neighbour. The statement argues point-by-point against Worcestershire County Council's reasons for recommending the amalgamation
YOUNG members of a city amateur dramatic society raised the roof as well as raising £800 for repairs to their rehearsal rooms. Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society Youth Section, led by their musical director Jane Whittle, held a singathon at St Mary's
A PRISONER in Northern Ireland was so moved by a Worcester News story about a sick city toddler he organised a collection among inmates to help pay for her treatment. The extraordinary tale began when Colin McClorey, who is serving in low-security HMP
AN auction of promises at a village school could raise thousands of pounds for youngsters. Last year's event at Eckington CE First School raised £7,000 and organisers have thanked parents and businesses who have pledged their support for this year. There
Bro msgrove Rovers 1 Willenhall Town 4 Southern League Division One West ROVERS' soft centre was cruelly exposed by rugged Willenhall Town, as their promotion hopes were struck with another hammer blow at the Victoria Ground on Saturday.KEPT OUT OF DANGER
BATTLING Sean Flynn looks to have played his final game for Redditch United. And former skipper Matt Clarke could also be on his way leaving Valley Stadium boss Rod Brown without two of his star performers over the last few seasons. Former West Brom and
BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackie believes that his side has ten games to stop promotion slipping away from them in the Southern League Division One West. Rovers are badly lagging behind in the race to escape the division after failing
ANYONE who has travelled overseas, particularly to the Third World, will have seen the damage unrestricted building development can do. From Riga to Rio, New Delhi to Nanjing, towns and cities are suffering as the developers move in and common sense moves
DOZENS of children from across Redditch are set to converge on Ipsley Park later this month for the District Schools Cross-Country Championships. Youngsters from Years 5 and 6 will be battling for glory this Friday with racing set to start at 2pm around
ANGLING: Studley Road Angling Club held their Carling Cup match on the River Avon on Saturday. Rob Coles caught two bream, an eel and small fish for a total match-winning weight of 4lbs 10oz. G Penny came second with 3lbs 8oz ahead of Glyn Blewett (2lbs
BADMINTON: The Worcestershire Schools Badminton Association are holding their annual u15s championships this month and they would like as many young players as possible to enter. England and Worcestershire coach Lorraine Cole said: "Any girls or boys
DARTS: It was back to league action for the Astwood Bank Winter teams and the three front-runners in Division One all secured comfortable wins. Queens A ran out 15-6 winners at the Lygon, while the Black Horse saw off Mount Pleasant 14-7 and Batchley
CYCLING: Joe Reeves and Abigail Cox were among the star performers in the latest Cyclo Cross events. The Redditch youngsters did well at the Midland League meeting at Pitcheroak Wood and then repeated their success at the West Midlands League meeting
VILLAGERS living around The Square in Alvechurch were rudely awakened in the early hours of Wednesday morning, when the burglar alarm on the local bank was set off. A 999 call was made to the police and patrol cars were sent from Birmingham and Worcester
THOMAS Summers, labourer, Inkberrow, was charged with assaulting his wife, Louise Summers, on November 2. He pleaded guilty. Complainant deposed that some aggravation arose over money matters, and defendant said he would go and see what she had in her
Football: Midland Combination FECKENHAM manager Lee Adams has paid tribute to two of his veterans, who chose to retire - although in one case for the umpteenth time - this week. Evergreen striker-turned sweeper Steve Fergusson's on-off retirement continued
ALVECHURCH have been handed an attractive home draw against Championship giants Wolves in the Birmingham Senior Cup. The match will be staged at Lye Meadow on Wednesday, November 23, and officials will be hoping for a bumper turnout. And the draw for
Market Drayton men's 1st XI 5 Bromsgrove men's 1st XI 4 A SECOND half fight back almost earned Bromsgrove a point in a goal-laden encounter in the Coaching Solutions West Midlands Division One on Saturday. Bromsgrove showed spirit to battle back from
Kings Heath men's 1st XI 2 Droitwich Spa men's 1st XI 0 DROITWICH are still waiting for their first victory in the Midlands Coaching Solutions West Midlands Hockey League Premier Division after losing on Saturday. Defeat leaves newly promoted Droitwich
Bromsgrove men's 2nd XI 5 Kidderminster men's 2nd IX 4 A STIRRING fight back ensured Bromsgrove's relegation battling second string managed to win this tight bottom of the table derby on Saturday. Bromsgrove came from two goals down to secure a vital
ST Luke's Memorial Hall is set to welcome a pair of internationally renowned Appalachian music and dance professionals all the way from the USA. Ira Bernstein and Riley Gaugus (pictured above), between them boast more than 50 years of music and dance
LORD of laughter, Jasper Carrott, returns to Birmingham with his Rock With Laughter show at Birmingam NEC this week. The line-up of music includes celebrity band G4 (pictured left), world-famous tribute band the Bootleg Beatles, and Irish dance sensation
Chesham Utd 0, Evesham Utd 2 by Mervyn Collins FIREWORKS night produced a spark-ling display as the introduction of a couple of fresh faces looks like igniting United's season. Matty Lewis and John Williams both made impressive bows but it was scorer-in-chief
Worcester City 3, Evesham Utd U-15 1 SATURDAY'S was an end to end game in the Midland Junior Premier League with both sides creating, but failing to take their early chances. Scott Andrews created a lot of problems for the home team's defence but it was
IT'S all change at the top of Aquaid Division One in the Stratford Alliance following wins for Quinton and Henley Forest and a first defeat of the season for Broadway. Mark Sanseverino netted twice for new leaders Quinton in a 5-2 defeat of Stratford
GARDENERS Arms caused a major upset in the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League's Knockout Cup by knocking out top flight Evesham WMC. The third division side's goals came from Haughty (2) and Griffiths on a day when Upton Snodsbury had
Kidderminster Harrs Res 7, Evesham Utd Ladies 3 LOOKING to build on the previous week's impressive League Cup performance, United were brought back to earth with a bump on Sunday as third in the table Harriers ran out comfortable winners. Defensive howlers
Littleton 1, Heather Athletic 3 FOR the fourth time this season Littleton lost a home league game and again they will feel that they deserved at least a share of the points. They played well in a game, sponsored by the Ivy Inn, that was a credit to both
THE next meeting of the Mercian Festival Junior League is on Sunday at the Bell Inn, St Johns, Worcester. The start time is 8pm and it's important that all clubs are represented.
GARDENERS Arms caused a major upset in the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League's Knockout Cup by knocking out top flight Evesham WMC. The third division side's goals came from Haughty (2) and Griffiths on a day when Upton Snodsbury had
West Brom 7, Evesham Utd U-13 4 AFTER conceding five goals in the first half, Evesham fought back to claim a share of the second half spoils. A superb strike from Ben Goss and a second for Dean Lee helped peg back West Brom at the break but two more goals
Worcester City 3, Evesham Utd U-15 1 SATURDAY'S was an end to end game in the Midland Junior Premier League with both sides creating, but failing to take their early chances. Scott Andrews created a lot of problems for the home team's defence but it was
Evesham Utd U-13 B 5, Peopleton 1 THOUGH exerting much of the pressure in the first half, Evesham were unable to find the net until close on the half-hour mark. Tom Evans won the ball and found James Bearcroft in space on the edge of the box, where he
NINETEEN-year-old Faisal Sha-hid has been awarded a scholarship with Worcestershire for the 2006 season. Shahid, from Smethwick, was a graduate of Worcestershire's Cricket Academy in 2004 and plays for Halesowen in the Birmingham League. He has also played
A TALENTED swimmer has battled back from injury to pick up two gold medals in Belgium. Droitwich Spa teenager Kim Briggs has endured a catalogue of disasters since last April. The 17-year-old suffered a sprained ankle, two foot breaks and surgery to both
WORCESTER'S attempt to win their 10th successive Midlands Under 10s Festival was thwarted by Bredon Buzzards. The club have claimed every single title since 1996 but they couldn't continue their run at Kidderminster Carolians Rugby Club. The Buzzards
WORCESTER Wanderers' third round Powergen Junior Vase match against Harbury has been re-scheduled and will now be played on Saturday, November 12. The game had to be called off at the weekend when the referee's car broke down on the M6. The winners of
LEADERS Pershore 'B' stepped up the pressure in the Nationwide Doors and Windows Worcester Snooker League with a fine 5-0 win at St Stephen's 'E'. In the same division, St Stephen's 'D' recorded the same scoreline over GWR 'A'. St Stephen's 'G' and Suzy
Kidderminster Harrs Res 7, Evesham Utd Ladies 3 LOOKING to build on the previous week's impressive League Cup performance, United were brought back to earth with a bump on Sunday as third in the table Harriers ran out comfortable winners. Defensive howlers
DROITWICH'S Ashes hero Ashley Giles tasted his first tour defeat this winter, as England slipped to a six-wicket loss to Pakistan's A side on Tuesday morning in Lahore. Giles was effective with the bat and ball. He hit 21 in the first innings, as England
PETE Bond, captain of Wyre Piddle Cricket Club since 1993, has stepped down after another successful season in charge. At the club's annual dinner, the 70-year-old was presented with a club cap and invited to become the inaugural president. Bond has single-handedly
DROITWICH chairman Rob Bray has outlined his dream of building a grandstand at the club. Bray announced his ambitious hopes to add a 250 seater stand at the Glynn Mitchell Memorial Ground at the end of last week. It is hoped by the club's supremo that
TO the people of Bromsgrove who read the Advertiser/Messenger in the lead up to Hallowe'en, I agree with reverend Neil Bennett's comments about its dangers - it's evil and of the devil. Jesus is the true meaning of life and life eternal - only Jesus will
IT'S Sunday evening and once again I am sitting with my large dog, who is terrified of the extremely loud fireworks going on at the moment. Do they have to be that loud? Why can't they be pretty and reasonably quiet. Every night this week there have been
ONCE again it's that time of year, when a lot of residents have to suffer the menace of fireworks, not just on Bonfire Night, but weeks before and after. Don't get me wrong, I'm no kill-joy, but do we have to be subjected to the continuous explosions
I JUST had to write, as I couldn't believe what I was reading in the Advertiser/Messenger about cut backs on hospital services. Which planet are the county health chiefs coming from? Certainly not this one by the way they present no interest in the needs
Rugby: Powergen Junior Vase Old Saltleians 25 Redditch 5 REDDITCH never really got going in this cup match against their opponents from a higher league. Perhaps it was the earlier kick off time that caused the Redditch backs to miss the move which resulted
Fairfield Villa 3 West Midlands Police 0 A SPENCER Kenwood brace made sure Fairfield Villa FC kept on the trail for silverware in the President's Cup on Saturday. A goal in each half by the striker made sure that Villa survived the cup clash. Kenwood
Rugby: Friendly Kings Norton 22 Yardley & District 3 KINGS eased to victory in this sloppy encounter against a North Midlands Five West (North) side who had no answer to the Hopwood side's stronger pack. Kings Norton won most of the tight play and
Tewkesbury 57 Alcester 5 ALCESTER slipped to their second heavy defeat in a month after making nine changes to the side that just failed against Rugby St Andrews the previous week. The visitors trailed 29-0 at the break and only had Stuart Little's second
RECENTLY I wrote a letter to the paper in response to Sarah Blacklock's letter about litter 'Let's Clean up the Place'. I would like to say in reply to the letter from 'a Droitwich High student' (why no name?), that I am not 'slating' children for litter
THIS is a 'follow up' comment on the letter published on October 26 (A Matter of Duty). Born in 1921, but now aged 84, in a country known as England, United Kingdom, then part of the mighty British Empire. Born and bred English? Other empires have come
Evesham Ladies LGU Medals (Silver): 1 Annie Bird +13; 2 Jenny Marston +15. Bronze: Carolyn Wash-bourne, Gillian Spencer +12. September Medal (LGU Pendant): 1 A Bird (cb); 2 Vina Kite. Summer Eclectic Trophy: 1 V Kite 67.5; 2 C Washbourne 68.5. Club Champion
Pershore III 45pts, Ledbury III 10 PERSHORE made a swift start in Saturday's Merit Table game against a youthful visiting side. The hosts were camped on the opposition 22 in the early stages and quick ball through the hands led Alan Jenkinson to touch
THE incentive is absolutely massive to progress to the second round of the FA Cup. Huddersfield Town are one of the biggest clubs available in the competition and you could not ask for anything more than being drawn at home. It's going to be huge financially
SIR I Badger, (Letters, October 24) suggests that D W Taylor's pictures of trains can become rather tiresome. Has Mr Badger no romance in his soul? D E MARGRETT, Worcester.
A DROITWICH model club sets sail to show off its impressive collection of marine models. Droitwich Model Boat Club will be one of the major attractions at the Model Boat Show between November 11 to 13 at Warwickshire Exhibition Centre. The show is the
MEMBERS of Chaddesleigh Corbett Gardeners' Club are due to meet today (Wednesday) at the village hall, 7.30pm for 8pm. Our speaker will be Dr Tony Hughes, who will talk to us about plants of the Julian Alps in Slovenia.
SIR Was the salesman who managed to off-load several thousand wheelie bins to Worcester City Council by any chance one Derek Trotter, of Trotters Independent Traders, of Peckham, Paris and New York? This sounds like a Del-boy type deal to me. I can just
THERE will be an abundance of art when Lickey Parish Hall hosts the 23rd annual art exhibition between November 12 and 13. The exhibition, organised by the Lickey Hills Arts Society, will have over 150 pictures on display, in styles as diverse as watercolours
SIR The Government has received a lot of criticism from the Press over giving in to the public sector unions over pension retiring age. I feel the Government had no option but to give in. If they had not, the country would have been in chaos. It is said
Stour Valley Rotary Club is holding another fundraising event at Hagley Community Centre, this time a Music Quiz and Fish & Chip Supper on November 11. A range of music from the 1960s, 70s and 80s will be used so the evening has something to suit
THE committee organised a very special birthday party to celebrate the institute's 75th anniversary. Balloons and flowers were very much in evidence, as well as lots of mouth-watering food lining the tables. The attendance, so I was told, was 70, including
THE president, Mary Davies, opened the October meeting by thanking members who had provided cakes and help at the recent Catshill VJ Day celebrations. Following last year's successful knitathon, which raised £150 in aid of the National Children's Homes
SIR I am writing to express my horror at the legal loophole that allows the Ledbury Hunt to hunt foxes. To use an eagle is absurd. It would be terrified of a pack of hounds and its safety on the ground would be seriously compromised near uncontrolled
SIR I have just recovered from the excitement of watching one of the best FA Cup ties seen at St George's Lane in many a long year. I have followed city through thick and thin (mostly, it has to be said, thin!) since 1958, so I have seen them beat Millwall
Rubery WI had quite an exciting day for its October meeting. Most of the institute went to Redditch College of Food to celebrate the WI's 90th birthday with a lunch. It was most successful and enjoyed by all. Then at night, our meeting. It was pouring
HUNDREDS of angry residents packed into a public meeting to have their say on possible health cuts at the Alexandra Hospital and to back this newspaper's protest campaign. More than 300 people, including doctors, health representatives, councillors and
A MAGNIFICIENT avenue of trees, which was once a stunning feature of a Bromsgrove park, is set to be restored to its former glory by a group of cubs and scouts. Chestnut Walk, in Sanders Park, was for decades the haunt of nature lovers, small boys and
THE newly refurbished visitor's centre at Waseley Hills County Park is open for business again. Staff are urging countryside lovers to flock back to the centre now the cafe has a new manager and is open seven days a week. Senior countryside officer, Dan
COMEDIAN Jasper Carrott was on hand to present Cropwood Stables Outdoor Education Centre in Blackwell with a 14-seater mini-bus. The vehicle, known as a Variety Club Sunshine Coach, was provided by the Variety Club Golf Society, of which Jasper is a member
CHILDREN at a Finstall pre-school have been taking lessons in giving. Little Village playgroup members staged their own harvest festival when they collected heaps of produce to donate to needy children. Pre-school owner Lynn Deakin said: "The children
A TERRIFIED Spa family narrowly escaped serious injury when a firework rocket exploded in their bedroom after being deliberately launched next to their home. The Addy family, including six-week-old Miranda, was woken by the sound of fireworks outside
KEEPING busy. That's the secret for a long life according Ethel Jones who celebrated her centenary yesterday (Tuesday). Ethel, from Norton, Bromsgrove, received gifts, flowers and dozens of cards including a telegram from the Queen, to mark her big day
A DISTRICT councillor is spearheading a campaign to turn a school into a community centre. At Stoke Parish Council's meeting on Monday, Councillor John Tidmarsh said he had spoken to the county council about the future of Redgrove School once it closed
PLANS to rebuild two Bromsgrove schools have finally been given the go-ahead. Permission was granted to rebuild Meadows First and Parkside Middle Schools, on Stourbridge Road, after a revised scheme to relocate the school building and a major footpath
PROPERTY tycoon and owner of a Droitwich based housing firm has had to call in the receivers to several of his companies. Firms owned by Neil Grinnall, including Neil Grinnall Homes, that opened headquarters at Hadzor Hall last year, have apparently run
THE Bromsgrove branch of the Yorkshire Bank in High Street is to close on February 14 after 20 years, due to changing customer use. The bank made the decision this week after completing a review of its branch network, which was announced last May. Bromsgrove
A SPA school has been highly praised for its scheme to prepare youngsters for the world of work. Droitwich Spa High School in Briar Mill, has been singled out by Jacqui Smith, the minister of state for schools, after it was selected as a 'School in Focus
A SIGHT from Droitwich Spa's past will once again be seen after the town's Wych Barge project was given the green light when it won ITV's People's Millions lottery programme. Because of the victory the project will now receive £50,000 to build the recreation
A TALENTED town musician has started his own production company and created a terrace tune for his favourite football club. Steve Crawford, from Witton Avenue, currently teaches the keyboard and guitar after finishing a music technology degree in Derby
PUPILS at Pershore High School have been shooting and jumping to the top in two county championships. The Under-16 netball squad added the county title to the district one they won last month and will now go through to the West Midlands Regional round
SPORT Studies graduate Daryl Mitchell, netted a University of Worcester cricket scholarship, and with it secured his dream to play first-class cricket for Worcestershire. The 21-year-old from Badsey broke into the first team at New Road last season and
WHILE one former Prince Henry's High School pupil has been making his mark at Worcester Rugby Club, a current pupil helped the North Midlands to victory. Callum Black is one of two Academy players at Sixways to be offered full-time contracts and the 19
Pershore III 45pts, Ledbury III 10 PERSHORE made a swift start in Saturday's Merit Table game against a youthful visiting side. The hosts were camped on the opposition 22 in the early stages and quick ball through the hands led Alan Jenkinson to touch
A GREENLANDS family narrowly escaped losing their home in a fire when they confused the banging of an electrical fault with fireworks outside. And it was the quick thinking of a son which saved the main part of the house from the flames. Firefighters
Evesham Youth AC DUNCAN Field was the winner of the junior section in the battle for the Bill Sollis Trophy that was fished on Manor Farm's Ash Pool on Saturday. The winner saw off the challenge of Robert Thompson to claim top spot, while Andy Beasley
THERE was another lucky escape when a Redditch firefighter was spared serious injuries after a gas cylinder exploded near a fire he was trying to put out. Fletcher Ashcroft was dampening the flames of a fire at a catering van in Elizabeth Way on the Enfield
LATEST action at Throck-morton CPSC saw Down the Line competitors having the chance to win the annual DTL Trophy. Dave Broughall was the first to break 70 but it was Stuart Emms who topped the final standings with just two second barrels. The Skeet Layout
I HAVE a few comments regarding the Clinical Service and Finance Review published by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust and the subsequent meeting held at the Artrix Centre in Bromsgrove on Saturday, November 5. It was pointed out by a local GP attending
Balsall & Berkswell 2, Pershore 2 PERSHORE stumbled but didn't fall in Saturday's crucial Coa-ching Solutions West Midland Division Two fixture. First advantage went to the visitors when quick thinking by the roaming defence saw Garth Rushton release
HAVING lived in Redditch for more than 40 years, it was great when, in the 1980s, we had a hospital built that was more suitable for the needs of the population. Now, after only 20 years, the idea of moving A&E and other departments to Worcester should
