Stories for 26 March 2008

Back On Track Appeal

Striding out in the fresh air for appeal

SHUTTLE/Times & News readers can don their walking boots and take a breath of fresh air in a special sponsored walk on behalf of the Back on Track appeal.  more...

Body And Soul

Happy to be alive: The miracle woman who beat death twice

TO cheat death once is lucky. To cheat it twice is little less than a miracle. Yet one woman is living proof that miracles do happen.  more...

Happy to be alive: The miracle woman who beat death twice

TO cheat death once is lucky. To cheat it twice is little less than a miracle. Yet one woman is living proof that miracles do happen.  more...

Business

Morgan design star wins major honour

THE design student behind the Morgan Motor Company's futuristic Aeromax sportscar has won a major award.  more...

Couple set sights on another salon

A Worcester couple who started with a humble mobile hairdressing business are set to open their third smart salon in as many years.  more...

Website to counter ID fraud

A NEW website has been launched to assist businesses in protecting themselves and their customers from becoming victims of identity fraud.  more...

Business News

Forum for budding businesses

BUDDING Redditch entrepreneurs are being challenged to prove that they have what it takes in business.  more...

Former Rover worker goes it alone

ALMOST three years on from the closure of MG Rover, a Redditch man has turned a one-time hobby into a successful business.  more...

Fixtures

Weekend county football fixture round-up

THIS weekend's football fixtures across Worcestershire include: SATURDAY WORCESTER AND DISTRICT LEAGUE Bayliss Cup semi-finals: VBL Sports v Upton Town (J Williams); Grosvenor Sports v Worcester YMCA (B Taylor).  more...

Football

Spa seek final success

READY to lock horns in the final of the Worcestershire FA Saturday Junior Cup next week are Droitwich Spa and Bredon.  more...

ProZone boss drops by

MARTIN Bland, head of refereeing services at ProZone, is the guest speaker at tomorrow night's Bromsgrove football referees meeting at the DDS and S Club in Stourbridge Road (7.30pm). ProZone is used by the Premier League to film games and produce statistics on the players and referees.   more...

Spa seek final success

READY to lock horns in the final of the Worcestershire FA Saturday Junior Cup next week are Droitwich Spa and Bredon, Midland Combination side Spa will be making their second appearance in the final at Worcester City FC's St. Georges Lane Ground on Tuesday, April 1, and they will be hoping to better their previous outing when they were beaten 1-0 by Bewdley Town in season 2004-05.  more...

Police hope to avoid cautions

THE boys in blue will be donning their soccer kit next week to tackle the youth of Rubery.  more...

Stars look golden

FC Stargold are still looking strong at the top of the Droitwich Sunday Leisure League after a 4-0 victory over struggling Next Generation.  more...

Sunday league results:

Bromsgrove and District Football League results (March 24): Northfield Press LMS Shield quarter-final: Victoria Barnt Green 2 D and P La Coruna 3.  more...

League success softens blow of Senior Urn exit

BARNT Green Spartak continued to improve their Midland Combination Premier Division form, but the Lye Meadow-based outfit's defence of the Worcestershire Senior Urn came to an end.  more...

General

Stylish thriller

FILM fans will be flocking to Kidderminster Library to watch a stylish political thriller next week.  more...

Junior Sports

Forbes bags hat-trick

Bromsgrove Town FC junior football round-up.  more...

Miserable Easter for Colts

Santiago Colts FC junior football round-up.  more...

Duo net draw for Rubery

Rubery FC junior football round-up.  more...

Park close in on title

Meadow Park FC junior football report.  more...

Kidder News Latest

Talented teen scoops county award

A STOURPORT High School pupil who has acted as a spokesman for the traveller community has won an award celebrating "unsung heroes".  more...

British Sugar Beet fire

THE weighbridge building at the landmark British Sugar Beet site has been gutted by fire after a suspected arson attack.  more...

British Sugar Beet fire

THE weighbridge building at the landmark British Sugar Beet site in Kidderminster has been gutted by fire after a suspected arson attack.  more...

British Sugar Beet fire

THE weighbridge building at the landmark British Sugar Beet site in Kidderminster has been gutted by fire after a suspected arson attack.  more...

Striding out in the fresh air for appeal

SHUTTLE/Times & News readers can don their walking boots and take a breath of fresh air in a special sponsored walk on behalf of the Back on Track appeal.  more...

Tight-lipped on pub's future

SPECULATION about the future of Kidderminster pub the Briars Hotel has continued as the main parties involved remain tight-lipped about plans.  more...

Knife wielded in attempted robbery

A YOUTH brandishing a kitchen knife fled empty-handed after demanding money in an attempted robbery in a Kidderminster takeaway.  more...

Youths arrested in damage probe

POLICE have arrested two youths on suspicion of causing criminal damage to a phone kiosk in Kidderminster.  more...

Awards for Stourport regeneration

REGENERATION work in Stourport has been recognised with several prestigious awards.  more...

Tribute to 999 teams

THE teenage girl who survived a road accident which claimed the lives of her younger brother and father has spoken publicly for the first time to thank the emergency services.  more...

Kidz Competitions

Kidz Zone - WIN WIN WIN – Five sets of two ‘The Wicket Chronicles’ Books.

The Wickit Chronicles is a series of books set in the vast swampy fenlands of medieval England, and tells the adventures of Pip, an orphan brought up at Wickit Monastery, and his friend Perfect, a living, breathing, talking, dragon-shaped stone gargoyle.  more...

Kidz Zone - WIN WIN WIN – Five sets of two ‘The Wicket Chronicles’ Books.

The Wickit Chronicles is a series of books set in the vast swampy fenlands of medieval England, and tells the adventures of Pip, an orphan brought up at Wickit Monastery, and his friend Perfect, a living, breathing, talking, dragon-shaped stone gargoyle.  more...

Latest

Latest travel news

Check out the latest travel news before you head home.  more...

Latest travel news

Check out the latest travel news before you head to work.  more...

Worcester News weather watch

KEEP up with the latest weather forecast with us.  more...

Seagulls are ruining the roof of Shirehall

THEY are a nuisance to many, but flocks of seagulls are proving to be a real problem for bosses at Worcester Crown Court.  more...

St John's 'A' claim the bragging rights

HIGH-flying St John's B' suffered a 4-0 whitewash at the hands of club rivals St John's A' in their most recent William Hill-sponsored Worcester League game.  more...

Hallow and Pershore ready to battle for the title

THE SEC Solutions Worcester League is entering the last phase of the season.  more...

Tigers star signs for Evesham CC

CONTRACTS have been signed between Bangladesh Test captain Mohammed Ashraful and Evesham Cricket Club for the forthcoming Birmingham League season.  more...

Rescued dove is now sitting pretty

IT's an unusual piece of headwear, but this animal lover is rightly proud of his pet dove after rescuing it from heartless thugs.  more...

Collection confusion means more rubbish

RUBBISH will be left to pile up after bins were not left out for the binmen on Good Friday because residents did not know they would be working says an angry councillor.  more...

Club's social events at risk

WEDDINGS, birthday parties and music nights are among the many special events which could have to be moved or cancelled if a long-standing community facility in Mal-vern closes down.  more...

Club's social events at risk

WEDDINGS, birthday parties and music nights are among the many special events which could have to be moved or cancelled if a long-standing community facility in Mal-vern closes down.  more...

Taxi chief condemns revellers at Easter

A TAXI chief has condemned the behaviour of revellers over the Easter weekend.  more...

Why I'm backing embryo bill

A PENSIONER with Parkinson's disease says the controversial use of stem cells from hybrid human-animal embryos could provide a miracle cure for future generations.  more...

COMMENT: Brown right to let MPs vote freely

IT'S easy to see why sections of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill have aroused strong opinions on both sides in recent weeks.  more...

Council approves schools funding bid

FOUR secondary schools in Worcestershire could be completely rebuilt and another refurbished from next year, after councillors agreed to submit a bid for £150 million.   more...

Wetland would be danger to children

A PLAN to transform part of a Pershore park into wet grassland has been greeted with horror by some of the town's residents.  more...

Police prevent man from jumping in river

POLICE officers managed to talk a man out of jumping off a bridge and into the river Avon on the outskirts of Pershore.  more...

Final call for those who want to win the crown

THIS is the final call for women who think they have got what it takes to wow the city and be crowned Miss Worcester 2008.  more...

Wetland would be danger to children

A PLAN to transform part of a Pershore park into wet grassland has been greeted with horror by some of the town's residents.  more...

Wetland would be danger to children

A PLAN to transform part of a Pershore park into wet grassland has been greeted with horror by some of the town's residents.  more...

Wetland would be danger to children

A PLAN to transform part of a Pershore park into wet grassland has been greeted with horror by some of the town's residents.  more...

Wintesses wanted after intruder enters city home at dawn

POLICE are calling on early-risers to help them identify an intruder who entered a home in Worcester city centre.  more...

Witnesses wanted after intruder enters city home

POLICE are calling on early-risers to help them identify an intruder who entered a home in Worcester city centre.  more...

Restaurant earns more star quality

A POPULAR riverside restaurant in Worcester has bounced back from its flooding woes to become better than ever.  more...

Weather too wet for birds in garden

LAST year's wet weather was a major factor for fewer birds being seen in Worcestershire gardens.  more...

Weather too wet for birds in garden

LAST year's wet weather was a major factor for fewer birds being seen in Worcestershire gardens.  more...

It’s a diamond celebration for Cyril and Alma

A SPARKLING Worcestershire couple are today celebrating 60 years of wedded bliss.  more...

Amy's a record breaking rabbit

A RABBIT in Worcestershire has made it in to the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world's biggest bunny.  more...

Man threatened to jump

EMERGENCY services were called to Pershore last night after a man threatened to throw himself off a bridge into the River Avon.  more...

Blossom Trail tours start next week

THE renowned Spring Blossom coach tours start next Wednesday with a professional blossom guide providing a not to be missed tour of one of the county's most famous natural attractions.  more...

Millers savour victory but local sides are frustrated

ALVECHURCH picked up one point from a possible four over the Easter period in the Midland Football Alliance.  more...

Club looking for Freddie Flintoffs of the future

ALVECHURCH and Hopwood CC is running a introductory course for juniors from this Friday.  more...

Tries galore for Alcester

ALCESTER RFC recorded a comprehensive 50-0 friendly win against Wellesbourne.  more...

Kings book semi-final spot

IMPRESSIVE Kings Norton powered into the semi-finals of the North Midlands Shield after edging out Droitwich 27-26 on Saturday.  more...

Latets

Missing man found safe and well

A MAN who went missing from his Redditch home more than a week ago has been found safe and well.  more...

Letters

Housing matters and issues of flood plains

SIR - REGARDING the recent letter from Worcester MP Mike Foster, as John Phillpott writes a regular column in the Worcester News I for one would think he reads the paper and takes into account the points of view of other people.  more...

Ivy could be worse than elms disaster

SIR - I agree whole heartily with John Phillpott about the sad loss of the elms (Worcester News, Saturday, March 13).  more...

Attack the yobs not the product

SIR - Drunken yobs should be dealt with effectively. Why has the Chancellor attacked the product and not the yobs?  more...

MPs know what’s best for the voters

SIR - With 27 countries in membership, a constitution for the European Union is inevitable.  more...

Lower paid will be paying more tax

remember the last Budget of the previous Chancellor, now our illustrious Prime Minister, stating with a flourish his final comment "and I reduce the basic rate of income tax to 20p in the pound," to which he received a cheer from the Labour benches.  more...

Lower paid will be paying more tax

SIR - You may all remember the last Budget of the previous Chancellor, now our illustrious Prime Minister, stating with a flourish his final comment "and I reduce the basic rate of income tax to 20p in the pound," to which he received a cheer from the Labour benches.  more...

Pubs don’t give value for money

SIR - A reply to Mike Stevens re-the pub closure debate. I'm afraid pubs are going out of fashion because they don't give the customer what they want and grossly over-charge. They have done it for years. I dread to think now the Chancellor put the price up, how much more will the pubs increase it by, and blame the Chancellor. If pubs want to do well they must give the customers a fair deal.  more...

My friend is partial to a bit of roadkill

SIR - Talking of wildlife killed on our roads (John Phillpott, March 15) my friend Roger, aged 72, picks up any dead pheasants or partridge he finds on the road, takes them home, cooks and eats them.  more...

Wheeliebins are much better than those sorry old dustbins

SIR - What a novel suggestion was made by Jim Evans: "Vote for the political party who promises to reinstate weekly rubbish collections from old-style dustbins".  more...

Why not use UK passport, David?

SIR - As a recent past member of the Home Office, Border and Immigration Agency at Birmingham airport, I have to say that David Clark, who entered the UK using his Australian passport, is the author of his own misfortune.  more...

Focus continues to be on the child

SIR - I feel I need to respond to some of your correspondents who may not have clearly understood Worcestershire County Council's position regarding free transport provision for students with special educational needs (SEN). People seem to be confused by what is happening and believe that all children with SEN will have their right to free school transport taken away.  more...

How the dickens do they manage?

SIR - I was brought up during and after the war by an enterprising mother who made sure that we survived until rationing was finally ended.  more...

Green collections would be great

SIR - In the context of arguments over opposition to Wychavon's green waste recycling scheme, I was told by the county council that there are concerns that some Wychavon residents are presently dumping their garden waste on open land in a flood plain next to a river, and so taking away flood storage and increasing flood risk in several ways. When there is a flood, branches and other material can and do block culverts and drains or protective grilles.  more...

What exactly are we paying for?

SIR - At long last a county council senior officer who tells it like it is. Was I not delighted to see that Dianne Tilley, the county council's head of planning, economy and performance admits that: "A lot of people do not know who we are or which services we provide".  more...

Car clamping should be illegal

SIR - Mike Foster's concern over car clamping seemed to indicate that he was in favour of clamping but the clampers deserved a slap on the wrist for being so heavy handed.  more...

How many staff does MP have?

SIR - Could Mike Foster please explain just how many staff he has?  more...

Building respect

A YEAR ago I wrote a letter to Your view saying that to settle down with my childhood sweetheart in a town I love so well was "like a dream come true".  more...

Our own force?

THIS week in the village of Romsley we are about to pay yet another round of increased Council Tax - and for what everyone?  more...

Road repairs

CONCERNED at the condition of the roads in and around Bromsgrove I put in a formal complaint recently.  more...

Rubbish failures

WELL Bromsgrove District Council has done it again - failed to collect rubbish on a large part of the Friday round.  more...

Now be proud

I READ a lot of critisism of Bromsgrove in Your viewand decided I should write about something that is good about our town.  more...

In need of surgery

I AM concerned about the future of General Practice in our country and in our county.  more...

Happy memories

HOW nice it was to see a photo of Watt Close School in the Advertiser/Messenger's Memory Lane earlier this month.  more...

Others suffer too

MUCH as I feel for the elderly residents of Bromsgrove with the loss of their £30 parking permit, I do feel I should point out there are others for whom the treatment by Bromsgrove District Council has been far worse.  more...

Bring back the old town...

I THOUGHT it was time for a few lines from someone that moved to Bromsgrove 23 years ago.  more...

The differences

I WAS surprised and disappointed to read last week's article on the March 13 public meeting, regarding the quoted comments from Councillor RogerHollingworth.  more...

Too independent

I WAS somewhat surprised to read last week the remarks made by Independent (IPG) Councillor D Pardoe.  more...

Realistic charge

THE district council leader, Roger Hollingworth, is a disgrace to the Bromsgrove community - quick to criticise, but he was not at the meeting on March 13 and has no first hand knowledge of what went on.  more...

Mounting costs

AS inflation soars and Council Tax bills increase, where are pensioners supposed to get this extra money just to survive on?  more...

More parkign woes?

REGARDING Debenhams moving into Kidderminster, I am very pleased about this as I enjoy shopping at the store - but where are all the visitors going to park?  more...

More parking woes?

REGARDING Debenhams moving into Kidderminster, I am very pleased about this as I enjoy shopping at the store - but where are all the visitors going to park?  more...

Marina development

I AM continuously surprised by the negative reaction of local people to the Tingdene Marina Development. Upton Upon Severn is rapidly turning in to a geriatric museum and is in desperate need of rejuvenation following the disastrous floods of last year.  more...

Council magazine

VIEW from The Hills is a magazine issued twice a year by Malvern Hills District Council to local residents at a gross annual cost of around £18,000. In my opinion, the magazine contains nothing of any importance and no information that cannot easily be obtained elsewhere. Straight into the recycle bin then!  more...

Memory Lane

Time to meet the dream team

A FOOTBALL team, that in its heyday was one of Bromsgrove's best, briefly takes the field again for our weekly glance at the past.  more...

Music

Wishing time for band

READY to make their live debut on Friday night in Bromsgrove is a local group, The Sheds, that has been resurrected', and they're hoping music-loving townsfolk will like what they hear.  more...

Prize winning violinist

REDDITCH Music Society has now resumed its concerts.  more...

Top folk artists lined up

THE English Originals Folk Festival looks set to present a perfect weekend celebration of English music traditions over the weekend of April 25-27 at Birmingham's Town Hall and Symphony Hall - paying tribute to a musical heritage passed down through centuries and generations.  more...

Church concert

AN informal lunchtime concert will be held at Bewdley's St Anne's Church this weekend.  more...

Nature Notes

Pretty dandelion is one of nature’s masterpieces

SPRING wildflowers are always welcome. Many of us take great pleasure from the showy blooms of daffodils and crocuses when they bloom in our gardens and along the road verges.  more...

News

Three directors decide to quit Lane board

FRUSTRATION over the sale of St George's Lane and club finances have led to the resignation of three Worcester City directors.  more...

Newton confident New Road will be fit to play

WORCESTERSHIRE are confident of finally getting a cricket match played at their New Road ground next week.  more...

City’s future worries fans

WORCESTER City supporters are demanding a say on the club's future.  more...

Ruddock eyes Jones

WARRIORS chief Mike Ruddock has admitted the Six-ways club are interested in signing scrum-half Ben Jones from Doncaster Knights.  more...

Weekend catastrophe leaves Darby seething

DUANE Darby blasted his Bromsgrove Rovers players after a nightmare Bank Holiday weekend - and admitted he may have to play a bigger role in their BGB Premier Division survival bid than first expected.  more...

Harriers tipped for more away woes

Kidderminster produced one of their best performances for some time on Monday as they bounced back from consecutive away defeats to see off Rushden 2-0 at Aggborough and they hope to pick up where they left off at Crawley Town. Nevertheless, the hosts solid home form means they start as betdirect's 11/10 favourites for the Broadfield Stadium contest with the Harriers' chances rated at a lengthy 11/4 by VCBet.  more...

Harriers tipped for more away woes

Kidderminster produced one of their best performances for some time on Monday as they bounced back from consecutive away defeats to see off Rushden 2-0 at Aggborough and they hope to pick up where they left off at Crawley Town.  more...

Injury problems for in-form United

PROMOTION hopefuls Harrogate Town head to the Valley Stadium on Saturday as Reds boss Gary Whild looks to maintain Redditch United's impressive home record.  more...

Reader'S Pictures

The last gasps of winter

The last icy blast of winter: Reader Trevor Baylis captured this evocative scene of Broadway Tower in the snow.  more...

The last gasps of winter

The last icy blast of winter: Reader Trevor Baylis captured this evocative scene of Broadway Tower in the snow.  more...

Reports

Rovers given a Bash-ing

Bashley 4,
Rovers 0  more...

Rovers given a Bash-ing

Bashley 4,
Rovers 0  more...

More misery after early lead is blown

Rovers 1
, Yate Town 2
  more...

More misery after early lead is blown

Rovers 1
, Yate Town 2
  more...

Reviews

Band are as cool as folk

Review: Oysterband acoustic show - Catshill Social Club, Meadow Road, Catshill THERE is nothing as cool as folk.  more...

Richard Taylor'S Weekly Column

March 27, 2008

THIS week I am writing with unashamed nostalgia about steam railways.  more...

Round-Up

Archdales hang on to home point

ARCHDALES 73 drew 3-3 ag-ainst high-flyers Knowle in Midland Combination division One.  more...

Joy for Clark in season opener

WORCESTER racing driver Steve Clark got his challenge for the 2008 Avon Tyres British GT Championship off to a great start as he and team-mate Paul O'Neill took fifth and third place finishes at Oulton Park, Cheshire.  more...

Pairs reach next round

RESULTS from the first round of Worcester and District Ladies League pairs competition.  more...

Connor is aiming for top career

BOXER James Connor is hoping to launch a successful career in the sport after winning a universities title.  more...

Weston lands double to make father proud

CLERK of the Course Martin Weston was rewarded for all the hard work prior to the Croome and West Warwickshire meeting with a double after Dobbies Garden World stormed to victory in the Members and Caught at Dawn's facile win in the Men's Open.  more...

Neal ready for challenge with new team

DROITWICH race ace Matt Neal is raring to go as he prepares to help his new team defend their British Touring Car titles.  more...

Harriers out to beat the deadline with new players

KIDDERMINSTER Harriers are confident of having at least one new face in their squad as they prepare for two games in under 48 hours.  more...

Youth team take on Shropshire

THE Worcestershire Football Association have selected the following squad to take on Shropshire in the Midland Counties Youth Champion-ships at Pershore Town on Sunday, April 6 (2pm).  more...

Victories shared

SAILING: Barnt Green Sailing Club - Sunday Class racing results (March 23): Lark Class: 1) Bob and Mandy Suggitt, 2) Kelsey Suggitt and Josh Stuart.  more...

Wins for Catshill B and Blackwell

DARTS: Bromsgrove Ladies Darts League results: Blackwell 6 Catshill C 3, Catshill B 6 Fairfield 3, The Swan 3 Clent 6, Turks H 4 Catshill A 5, Bewell H B 6 Greyhound 3, Labour C 6 Hawthorn 3.  more...

Conquering Europe

A MIXED team from Bromsgrove Hockey Club stormed to success in the Strawberries Easter Hockey Tournament in Holland.  more...

Duo hit top form as roaring Tigers win

Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis League.  more...

Close season has started

COARSE anglers in the Bromsgrove and Droitwich areas may be aware that the close season is now underway but just in case it has slipped anyone's memory the Environment Agency is reminding all Midlands anglers that by the time it ends in June they will need to have bought a new rod licence.  more...

Skittles sides are required

SKITTLES teams from the Bromsgrove and Droitwch areas are being called in to action in a bid to secure their places in the draw for this year's Blackthorn British Skittle Championships.  more...

Golf taster sessions

BROMSGROVE Golf Club is offering free taster sessions for beginners, on April 5 and 6.  more...

Hoares win nail-biting final

THE Hoares were crowned winners of Droitwich Spa Hockey Club's annual Easter Tournament after a dramatic 3-2 penalty flick win over The Big Frothy Jugs.  more...

Alec goes Spanish

BLACKWELL speedster Alec Wright was the fastest British rider at his first race in the CMV 125GP Spanish Championship.  more...

Father and son relish fast lane

BROMSGROVE resident Dave Orchard is bucking the trend by being one of the oldest competitors involved in the Heart of England Rally Championships.  more...

Athletes shine in road race

MEMBERS of Droitwich Athletics Club entered the Treat MT8 - a course that covers eight miles of off road racing.  more...

Concern over green space development

WORRIED residents packed into an emergency meeting after six acres of land at Hewell Grange was put up for sale.  more...

Easter is a crunch time

EASTER was a crunch time for a bunch of budding chefs.  more...

Hooded raiders hit post office

TWO men wearing balaclavas and carrying weapons got away with a quantity of cash after threatening staff at Romsley post office yesterday (Tuesday).  more...

A fairytale world

SWASHBUCKLING pirates and characters from fairytales came to life for youngsters at a school in Bromsgrove.  more...

Car fire

BROMSGROVE firefighters attended a car fire on the M5 on Tuesday, March 18. One Range Rover was well alight when the crews arrived just after 7pm, between junctions 4a, Lydiate Ash, and 5 at Wychbold. Crews extinguished the fire using one hose reel. Firefighters were also called to a field off the A38, near the Harvester, at 8.30 on the same evening. The fire was extinguished using water back packs.   more...

Hat’s the way to do it

IT'S hats off to children from an Aston Fields pre-school who took part in their Easter celebrations.  more...

Racial assault

POLICE, investigating a racially aggravated assault in Rubery, are appealing for the public's help.  more...

All change

THE Co-op store in Stoke Road closed yesterday (Tuesday) until Thursday next week to allow staff to get ready for its transformation. Children from Castle Kids Out of School nursery, which is attached to Finstall First School, have been chosen to perform a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10am on April 3 following the former Balfour store's £80,00 makeover, and the creation of two new jobs. To thank the youngsters, store manager Caroline Spreckley plans to present them with a donation of £200 for club funds. She said: "As a community-minded retailer it is appropriate that we involve the community in our special events."  more...

Tackling crime at beauty spots

EMERGENCY services in Bromsgrove joined forces as part of a campaign to tackle crime at a local beauty spot over the Easter weekend.  more...

Help with grants

THOSE keen to apply for a lottery grant, or people having trouble with their grant applications, are being urged to contact Bromsgrove's MP Julie Kirkbride. On behalf of her constituents, Julie has arranged for a representative from the lottery grants organisation to attend a meeting, where useful information and tips which may help your application will be discussed.Further information about the scheme can be obtained by calling Rita Dent on 07970857136 or 01527 872135.  more...

Walk of witness

LOCAL churches joined together for the walk of witness' on Good Friday. Eight churches, including Rubery-based Beacon Church Centre and St Chad's Church of England, took part in the event, which included a short mediation in front of each church.  more...

Big Ron

BOSSES in Stoke Prior are celebrating their firm's recovery after the floods by inviting Big Ron Atkinson to open its refurbished showrooms. The Granite and Marble Company, which is based at the Harris Business Park, is having an official re-opening at 11am on Saturday, March 29, with Ron Atkinson, the colourful football commentator and former manager from Barnt Green, cutting the ribbon. Managing director, Jon Brewer said: "The floods definitely caught us between a rock and a hard place. But we have bounced back and now we are determined to make the best of it."  more...

Vote of thanks

A GRATEFUL patient, who was airlifted from the scene of a serious road accident, has personally thanked the flight crew who came to her rescue.  more...

Technology boost

MORE jobs for Bromsgrove people could be on the cards now that the town's technology park is set to expand.  more...

Mini-bus plea

AN Aston Fields school is appealing for help to raise money for a new mini bus. Rigby Hall School, in Rigby Lane, is hoping to raise £10,500 for a new bus. Through donations and fundraising efforts, it has already managed to raise over half the money needed. Two recent donations, from Banner Foods Ltd, in Aston Fields, and Sanctuary Housing in Worcester, of around £1,000 each, have boosted the school's efforts, taking the total to £5,700. Anyone who can donate to the fund is asked to call the school on 01527 875475.  more...

Concern growing over library service

A PARISH council is putting pressure on County Hall for improvements to their library service with an on-site temporary building.  more...

Crime plea

THE police in Bromsgrove are appealing once again for information from anyone who can help them solve the burglary at Chipped UK Ltd nearly seven weeks ago.  more...

Beating the floods

TOP tips on how best to weather future floods are to be published in a leaflet by Bromsgrove District Council.  more...

Beating the floods

TOP tips on how best to weather future floods are to be published in a leaflet by Bromsgrove District Council.  more...

Concern over alcohol levels

AS national Alcohol Awareness week approaches, statistics have revealed that excessive drinking is causing a very real problem for people in Redditch and Bromsgrove and across Worcestershire.  more...

Help train guide dogs

Guide Dogs has launched an apprentice scheme in Worcestershire, targeting local people interested in a unique career, training and matching guide dogs with blind or partially sighted people.  more...

A vote of thanks

A GRATEFUL patient, who was airlifted from the scene of a serious road accident, has personally thanked the flight crew who came to her rescue.  more...

MP tries to quell troubled waters

A TOP government committee is being urged to find vital reassurances about Droitwich Spa's eagerly anticipated canals restoration project.  more...

It’s great to be back says Colin

A POPULAR Spa butcher, who suffered a heart attack after finding his business swamped by last year's flood troubles, has opened his doors for business again.  more...

We’re giving the Easter bunny a run for his money

TOWNSFOLK marked an egg-cellent Easter with a string of special events.  more...

League prepared to help new referees

ANY one currently involved with a club registered within the Ambassador Evesham League and would be interested in attending a Worcestershire FA Mini Soccer Refereeing Course is asked to contact a league official.  more...

Angling AGM next week

Evesham Jubilee Society THE annual general meeting will be held at Hampton Workingmen's Club starting at 8pm on Tuesday, April 8.  more...

Grant for rugby club

EVESHAM Rugby Clubs is one of seven Midlands clubs to be allocated funds by the Rugby Football Foundation in the latest distribution of interest-free loans and grants by the charitable trust.  more...

'Egg-static' after Easter triumphs!

IT'S just one big game after another for Evesham United who can take an even firmer grip on matters at the top of Southern League Division One Midlands with victory over Stourport Swifts at St Geor-ge's Lane on Saturday.  more...

Sports secure section success

BLOCKLEY Sports were crowned Cutler Division Three champions of the Stratford and District Alliance after a 3-1 Easter Saturday defeat of Claverdon.  more...

Spring sunshine greets Wheelers

EVESHAM Wheelers' midweek run saw a dozen members leave Hinton-on-the Green destined for Tewkesbury Abbey.  more...

Today's events

Wednesday Easter School - Indian Book Shrine workshop with Angie at .Ledbury Artplace, 5a Worcester Road, Ledbury. £115. 01531 633100.  more...

Garden birds declining

THE RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch survey has revealed that the number of birds seen in gardens this year was the lowest its been for five years.  more...

Bromyard favouriites for the title

LEDBURY Lions are the new leaders of the Brewin Dolphin Malvern Table Tennis League Division Two following two victories.  more...

Chilly conditions for adventurous businessman

A MALVERN businessman has completed an epic 350-mile mountain bike race across Alaska in temperatures of -30 C.  more...

Bromyard favourites for the title

LEDBURY Lions are the new leaders of the Brewin Dolphin Malvern Table Tennis League Division Two following two victories.  more...

Bbaskets blow to bloom bid

A DECISION to withdraw funding for floral hanging basket displays has met with resounding criticism from members of Malvern in Bloom, who are bidding to bring the town its third consecutive gold award.  more...

Baskets blow to bloom bid

A DECISION to withdraw funding for floral hanging basket displays has met with resounding criticism from members of Malvern in Bloom, who are bidding to bring the town its third consecutive gold award.  more...

Hut plans for Hanley youths

A GROUP of young people from Hanley Swan will be unveiling publicly an ambitious project this Saturday at the monthly cafe and market in the village hall.  more...

Matalan staff hoping to score with fundraising footie game

STAFF at Malvern's Matalan store will be getting their knees dirty to raise money for charity.  more...

Record numbers at Malvern event

MALVERN College hosted a record number of schools at the 16th Annual National Preparato-ry Schools' Cross Country Cha-mpionship.  more...

Fair trade for school raffle

PUPILS and staff at Cradley Primary School raised £202 for the school funds with a raffle of chocolate.  more...

Fair trade for school raffle

PUPILS and staff at Cradley Primary School raised £202 for the school funds with a raffle of chocolate.  more...

Clare is to spend the day in her PJs.

CLARE Boorman is expecting inquisitive glances when she heads out and about around Malvern in her pyjamas next Friday (April 4).  more...

Digging for a better future

CASTLEMORTON Primary School received a green boost as part of a national tree planting initiative.  more...

Joggers’ dozen heading for London

TWELVE Malvern Joggers are heading for the London Marathon next month.  more...

New blow for Peachfield Road protestors

RESIDENTS in Peachfield Road and on the Fruitlands estate have responded angrily to plans for a new access road across common land to accommodate a development of 33 new homes.  more...

Bevin Boy finally gets recognition

A LONG wait for recognition is finally over for a Malvern pensioner who fulfilled a vital role in the British war effort.  more...

Play area would not be a popular choice

PLANS to create a children's play area in Leigh Sinton have met opposition from neighbours who believe it is poorly located.  more...

Drains to be dealt with as part of flood prevention work

A NEW team has been set up to map out and deal with land drainage problems as part of Malvern Hills District Council's continuing response to last summer's floods.  more...

Thousands of homes lose power

NEARLY 2,000 people lost their electricity in Redditch and Studley following a fault on a high voltage network.  more...

Thousands of homes lose power

NEARLY 20,000 people lost their electricity in Redditch and Studley following a fault on a high voltage network.  more...

Roundup

Win keeps top two hopes alive

BEWDLEY'S bid for second place in the West Midlands League Premier Division was boosted after a 4-1 victory over bottom side Bromyard Town on Saturday.  more...

Rowbottom ready for big debut

TEENAGE petrol head Daniel Rowbottom will be hoping to make an impact at Brands Hatch when he debuts in the SEAT Cupra Championship this weekend.  more...

Harriers tipped for more away woes

Kidderminster produced one of their best performances for some time on Monday as they bounced back from consecutive away defeats to see off Rushden 2-0 at Aggborough and they hope to pick up where they left off at Crawley Town. Nevertheless, the hosts solid home form means they start as betdirect's 11/10 favourites for the Broadfield Stadium contest with the Harriers' chances rated at a lengthy 11/4 by VCBet.  more...

Harriers tipped for more away woes

Kidderminster produced one of their best performances for some time on Monday as they bounced back from consecutive away defeats to see off Rushden 2-0 at Aggborough and they hope to pick up where they left off at Crawley Town.  more...

Rugby

Spa suffer extra-time agony

Kings Norton 27
Droitwich 26
North Midlands Shield quarter final  more...

Schools News

School gets top marks and outstanding report

PUPILS, parents and staff at Leigh and Bransford Primary School, Worcester, are celebrating an outstanding inspection result.  more...

School gets top marks and outstanding report

PUPILS, parents and staff at Leigh and Bransford Primary School, Worcester, are celebrating an outstanding inspection result.  more...

Society

Chaddesley Corbett WI

President Jackie Emney welcomed everyone to the open meeting. She said that she was pleased to see so many visitors.  more...

Stoke Prior WI

President Betty Wolsey welcomed members to the March meeting. She said that some of our ladies had enjoyed a visit to Brockencote WI, where they were shown round the extended and refurbished village hall, which they share with Chaddesley Corbett WI.  more...

Fairfield WI

There was a chatty buzz around the room as Shirley extended her usual warm welcome to a good number of members on what was a chilly March evening outside.  more...

Wythall Gardening Club

David Tideswell gave a very entertaining talk on attracting birds into your garden. He interspersed very useful information with hilarious comments. Our members purchased bird boxes and feeders from David to encourage birds into our gardens. The next meeting will be on April 2 when Duncan Coombs will be giving a talk on ponds marginals and bog gardens. Our president, Peggy Suffield, celebrates her 90th birthday in March - we all wish her a very happy birthday.  more...

Hanbury WI

UNUSUALLY, our president and vice-president were both away, so our March meeting was chaired by our secretary, Marion, who welcomed our members and read the minutes.  more...

Bromsgrove U3a

The second March meeting of the Bromsgrove U3a was addressed by Sally Hoban, who as an author and regular contributor to national and local press and the broadcast media on art, design, antiques and photography, delivered an enthusiastic and informative illustrated talk on the subject of The Arts and Crafts Movement in the Midlands.  more...

Hanbury WI

UNUSUALLY, our president and vice-president were both away, so our March meeting was chaired by our secretary, Marion, who welcomed our members and read the minutes.  more...

Villages

Berrow

AT last a jumble sale in the benefice. All proceeds to the County Air Ambulance. Now's you chance for a spring clean and clear out of all unwanted items. Please take all your unwanted items to Berrow Village hall during the morning of April 5. Doors open for sale at 2pm.  more...

West Malvern

FORMER West Malvern policewoman PC Wendy Saunders has returned to her duties in the village and Dysons Ward after a stint at Tenbury, and says she is looking forward to resuming contact and friendships in the local community. She hopes to attend an early parish council meeting to present an update on police matters locally.  more...

What'S On

Where to go (March 26-March 31)

Wednesday March 26 CINEMA: Atonement, Artrix Centre, School Drive, Bromsgrove (until March 28).  more...

This ballet will be big!

IN a tongue in cheek pre-tour warning, theatre producer Alexej Ignatow of Amande Concerts suggests food-stocks may run short in Redditch this spring as the world's biggest ballet stars, The Big Ballet, are back in the UK and set to perform at the Palace Theatre on Saturday.  more...

Growing food can be fun

BLUE Peter's resident gardener, Chris Collins, is to open Worcestershire's brand new education family fun event for the young and young at heart tomorrow!  more...

Fight night

CAGE Rage - Britain's most exciting sporting night out - is to make a massive impact at Birmingham's NEC.  more...

  
Restrict search to 26 March 2008