Stories for 16 April 2008

Alcester

Make your voice heard

ALCESTER residents have one last chance to make their voices heard in the ongoing debate over the future of Alcester Hospital.  more...

Back On Track Appeal

Step out for fund

ARE you ready for the Back on Track sponsored walk at 9am on Sunday, May 18, starting and finishes at Stourport Sports Club?  more...

Helping hand from therapist

A COMPLEMENTARY therapist is offering to ease away all those aches and pains on behalf of the Back and Track appeal.  more...

Be A Part Of It

What if we could build Kidderminster from scratch?

IF you could build Kidderminster from scratch, what would you keep and why?  more...

KIDDERMINSTER - BE PART OF IT

THE Shuttle/Times & News has teamed up with Wyre Forest District Council to give readers the chance to have their say on the future of Kidderminster.  more...

KIDDERMINSTER - BE PART OF IT

THE Shuttle/Times & News has teamed up with Wyre Forest District Council to give readers the chance to have their say on the future of Kidderminster.  more...

Body And Soul

Special place celebrates living rather than dying

The Rev David Knight, chaplain at Worcester's St Richard's Hospice talks about his work IF we can't put days on to lives, we can put life into days. Chaplain of St Richard's Hospice, David Knight, has learnt that this is the key to hospice care.  more...

Special place celebrates living rather than dying

The Rev David Knight, chaplain at Worcester's St Richard's Hospice talks about his work IF we can't put days on to lives, we can put life into days. Chaplain of St Richard's Hospice, David Knight, has learnt that this is the key to hospice care.  more...

Special place celebrates living rather than dying

The Rev David Knight, chaplain at Worcester's St Richard's Hospice talks about his work IF we can't put days on to lives, we can put life into days. Chaplain of St Richard's Hospice, David Knight, has learnt that this is the key to hospice care.  more...

Business

Law firm’s backing for young musicians

WORCESTER firm Harrison Clark solicitors is providing money from its charitable trust to fund an annual scholarship for a talented young musician to train at the Elgar School of Music in the city.  more...

Worcester is latest in series of openings

CONTINUING its expansion in the Midlands and across the UK, United Business Centres plc has concluded a 10-year deal with Maximus to take 7,828 sq ft of space at the Wildwood Triangle, Wildwood Drive, development in Worcester.  more...

Generous staff dress down to raise cash

YOUNG people in Worcestershire have more chance of realising their potential thanks to a £1,600 donation to The Prince's Trust from staff at Worcester property developers Mainstay.  more...

Contender homes in on bright future

IF success in business depends on being in the right place at the right time, then John Reed is heading for big things as his embryo company puts down its roots in Kidderminster.  more...

Difficulties in Euro car market

JATO Dynamics, a provider of automotive data and intelligence, today reports that after a strong start to the year, March proved to be a more difficult month for the European car market, with a drop of 9.7 per cent (175,738 units) compared to the same month last year, posting a total sales volume of 1,631,810 units.  more...

Cricket

Cricket season curtain raiser

DROITWICH Spa start their cricket season on Saturday, when they host Wombourne in a friendly fixture.  more...

Droitwich 34 Stourbridge Lions 12

Can he kick it?

Jon Critchlow was in fine kicking form for Droitwich.  more...

Line-out

The Spa side claim a line-out.  more...

Spa power

Jon Andrews powers through the Stourbridge defence.  more...

Touching down

Andy Vizor runs clear to score the opening try for Droitwich.  more...

Stopped in tracks

Mark Strutt halts Stourbridge's progress.  more...

Lost ball

Stourbridge release the ball from the scrum.  more...

Hit the ground

Dylan Jones is wrestled to the ground.  more...

Down the middle

The line-out ball eludes both sides.  more...

On the run

Spa surge forwards.  more...

Held up

Sean Walker can't find a way through Stourbridge.  more...

Getting shirty

Dylan Jones gets in a tangle and nearly loses his shirt.  more...

On the charge

Sean Walker crashes into another challenge.  more...

Fixtures

County weekend football fixtures

SATURDAY WORCESTER & DISTRICT LEAGUE Martley Cup semi-finals: Worcester YMCA v Grosvenor Sports (R Storr); Martley Spurs v Hanley Swan (J Williams).  more...

Football

New junior side requires players

MEADOW Park Football Club are looking for new players for an under-15s side which is starting up next season.  more...

Unpredictables take advantage

UNPREDICTABLES now have the advantage at the top of the Droitwich Sunday Leisure League, as they sneaked through 2-1 against rivals FC Stargold to take the top spot on goal difference.  more...

Sunday league football results:

Bromsgrove and District Football League results (April 13): Division One: Vic Barnt Green 0 Cofton Celtic 1.  more...

Double blow for Spartak

IT was a week to forget for Barnt Green Spartak boss GJ Singh as his side suffered league and cup defeats.  more...

Heavy defeat for depleted Rubery

AN under-strength Rubery Ladies side were given a footballing lesson as they crashed to a 7-0 defeat against Kingshurst at Bay Tree Farm on Sunday.  more...

General

Club opens doors

STOURPORT Camera Club is marking its 50th year by holding an open day and exhibition on Saturday.  more...

Junior Sports

Final defeat for brave Boars

Junior rugby: Bromsgrove under-13s travelled to the second annual Broadstreet RFC tournament in Coventry, where they competed against seven other teams.  more...

Kidder News Latest

Step out for fund

ARE you ready for the Back on Track sponsored walk at 9am on Sunday, May 18, starting and finishes at Stourport Sports Club.  more...

Step out for fund

ARE you ready for the Back on Track sponsored walk at 9am on Sunday, May 18, starting and finishes at Stourport Sports Club?  more...

Helping hand from therapist

A COMPLEMENTARY therapist is offering to ease away all those aches and pains on behalf of the Back and Track appeal.  more...

Bewdley Hub being launched

A NEW Worcestershire Hub customer service centre for Bewdley will be launched on Friday.  more...

Waste trim welcomed

INSTALLATION of food waste disposers in housing association properties in Stourport has been welcomed by Worcestershire County Council.  more...

TT race death marshal quits

THE chief marshal on duty during a race in which a Wyre Forest motorbike enthusiast was killed has resigned.  more...

TT race deaths marshal quits

THE chief marshal on duty during a race in which a Wyre Forest motorbike enthusiast was killed has resigned.  more...

MURDER: TWO ARRESTED

TWO people have been arrested today on suspicion of the murder of Stourport man, Reginald Southall.  more...

Seized cars had no insurance

EIGHT vehicles were seized for having no insurance during a multi-agency operation in Kidderminster.  more...

Renewed appeal for crach witnesses

POLICE have renewed an appeal for witnesses to a collision which closed the Kidderminster to Wolverhampton road for 90 minutes.  more...

Renewed appeal for crash witnesses

POLICE have renewed an appeal for witnesses to a collision which closed the Kidderminster to Wolverhampton road for 90 minutes.  more...

Marathon

A KIDDERMINSTER man's astonishing stamina enabled him to complete three marathons in three days, winning the first two races and then achieving a personal best time in the London event.  more...

Marathon marvel

A KIDDERMINSTER man's astonishing stamina enabled him to complete three marathons in three days, winning the first two races and then achieving a personal best time in the London event.  more...

MEET COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Meet all the candidates for Wyre Forest District Council elections on May 1 in our special gallery.  more...

MEET ELECTION CANDIDATES

Go to our special picture gallery on this website to see details of all the candidates in the Wyre Forest District Council elections on May 1.  more...

Kidder Sport News

Students savour Aggborough action

FIVE lucky pupils from Stourminster Special School got their first taste of live football thanks to kind-hearted fans at Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday.  more...

Latest

Get voting for the new Miss Worcester

THIS is your chance to choose who you think should be crowned this year's Miss Worcester - and raise money for charity at the same time.  more...

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 out to work.  more...

Law firm’s backing for young musicians

WORCESTER firm Harrison Clark solicitors is providing money from its charitable trust to fund an annual scholarship for a talented young musician to train at the Elgar School of Music in the city.   more...

Worcester is latest in series of openings

CONTINUING its expansion in the Midlands and across the UK, United Business Centres plc has concluded a 10-year deal with Maximus to take 7,828 sq ft of space at the Wildwood Triangle, Wildwood Drive, development in Worcester.  more...

Generous staff dress down to raise cash

YOUNG people in Worcestershire can make themselves even more useful thanks to a £1,600 donation to The Prince’s Trust from staff at Worcester property developers Mainstay.  more...

Plumber downed 11 pints and drove home - court

AN apprentice plumber whose friends pleaded with him not to get behind the wheel of his car after drinking 11 pints has been banned from driving.  more...

Concern over changes to school transport funding

CONFUSION surrounds changes to school transport funding in Worcestershire, with some parents fearing they could be left to stump up the full cost of their child’s travel.  more...

Workmen rescue boy’s stolen bike

TWO workmen came to the rescue of a teenage boy whose bike was stolen from him in the city.  more...

Hairstylist to stars fired air rifle at me - court

A CELEBRITY hairdresser shot at a farmer with an air rifle before pelting him with stones, Worcester Crown Court was told.  more...

Pupils dress to impress for Alice

ALICE, the white rabbit and the Queen of Hearts will take to the stage of a Worcestershire school later this month.  more...

Students learn about the dangers of arson

STUDENT thespians set the stage alight when they shot a fire safety video to warn youngsters about the dangers of arson.  more...

Moves to tackle gull problem

ATTEMPTS will again be made to reduce the numbers of nuisance gulls in Worcester by dipping their eggs in paraffin oil or replacing the eggs with dummy eggs this spring.  more...

Crime falls sharply in south of county

CRIME has fallen dramatically across south Worcestershire over the past 12 months, with violent crime down in the region by more than six per cent.  more...

Pub robbers tie up

A PUB chef has described his terrifying ordeal after being tied up and threatened by robbers who broke into a busy village pub.   more...

Pub robbers tie up chef

A PUB chef has described his terrifying ordeal after being tied up and threatened by robbers who broke into a busy village pub.   more...

Pub robbers tie up chef

A PUB chef has described his terrifying ordeal after being tied up and threatened by robbers who broke into a busy village pub.   more...

COMMENT: We’ve got to stop feeding those gulls

THEY swoop on their victims almost out of nowhere. Their attacks are often vicious and many people in Worcester now live in fear of them.  more...

Pub Robbers Tie Up Chef

A PUB chef has described his terrifying ordeal after being tied up and threatened by robbers who broke into a busy village pub.  more...

Pub Robbers Tie Up Chef

A PUB chef has described his terrifying ordeal after being tied up and threatened by robbers who broke into a busy village pub.  more...

Two arrested on suspicion of murder

TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of murdering a man at Stourport-on-Severn.  more...

Two arrested on suspicion of murder

TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of murdering a man at Stourport-on-Severn.  more...

Appeal for assault witnesses

A TEENAGE girl was assaulted while she was out walking in Worcester.   more...

Aston Martin in road smash

A PERFORMANCE car overturned on a road into Worcester last night.  more...

Restraining order for obstruction woman - court

A WOMAN who tried to clear her name after an allegation of obstruction at work has been given a restraining order after admitting harassment.  more...

I’m off to Scotland on fund-raising mission

A MAN from Upton-upon-Severn is entering the final stages of his preparations to walk and cycle hundreds of miles around Scotland this summer with just his dog for company.  more...

Study to look at impact university has made on city

A WIDE-RANGING investigation has been launched into the impact Worcester University has had upon life in the city.  more...

Children’s charity wants old clothes

FOR people having a good spring clean and finding themselves with too many clothes, a Worcester-based charity has the answer.  more...

Worcester News weather watch

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

Better luck next time for dance trio

THREE young dancers from a Worcester performing school were just beaten at the finals of a national ballet contest.  more...

Skinflint motorists blocking our roads

PENNY-pinching commuters have been accused of clogging up roads near Droitwich railway station with their cars because they are too mean to pay parking charges.  more...

Skinflint motorists blocking our roads

PENNY-pinching commuters have been accused of clogging up roads near Droitwich railway station with their cars because they are too mean to pay parking charges.  more...

Skinflint motorists blocking our roads

PENNY-pinching commuters have been accused of clogging up roads near Droitwich railway station with their cars because they are too mean to pay parking charges.  more...

Praise for school’s outstanding effort

A PRE-school for children in Worcester has been praised by government inspectors, who said "children are motivated, enthusiastic and keen to learn".  more...

Praise for school’s outstanding effort

A PRE-school for children in Worcester has been praised by government inspectors, who said "children are motivated, enthusiastic and keen to learn".  more...

Where on Earth are you?

WORCESTER News readers catch up on the latest happenings from all over the place - now its your chance to tell us where you are.  more...

Crash causes traffic problems

A ROAD was partially closed in Worcester this afternoon following a two-car crash.  more...

Police warn drivers to protect their vehicles

RESIDENTS in a Worcester area are being urged by police to take further steps to protect their vehicles.  more...

'Rally driver' concerns for common land

CONCERNS have been raised about plans to prevent cars driving on Kempsey Common.  more...

Child charity quest for Worcester woman

AN intrepid Worcester woman is donning her walking boots to scale the highest mountain in Africa and raise money for children across the world.  more...

Kempsey’s young footballers facing a big pitch concern

CONCERNS have been raised that a junior football club which helps to keep youngsters off the streets of Kempsey will not be able to play on a new training ground this summer.  more...

Kempsey’s young footballers facing a big pitch concern

CONCERNS have been raised that a junior football club which helps to keep youngsters off the streets of Kempsey will not be able to play on a new training ground this summer.  more...

Couple have enjoyed 60 years of wedded bliss

A COUPLE who met at a swimming pool are celebrating their diamond wedding.  more...

Hairdresser to stars is cleared of air rifle attack

CELEBRITY hairdresser Daniel Galvin Jnr wiped away tears as he was cleared at Worcester Crown Court of an attack upon farming neighbours with an air rifle and rocks.  more...

Worcester News weather watch

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

Explore the outdoors through countryside course

WORCESTERSHIRE County Council will host a course aimed at exploring the great outdoors in June.  more...

Cyclists encouraged to take part in Bikeathon

KEEN cyclists are being urged to use pedal power and sign up for St Richard's Hospice second Bikeathon Sunday (April 20) The event offers cyclists a choice or circular 15, 30 or 45 mile routes starting from the hospice at Wildlwood Drive, Worcester, and taking in the beautiful South Worcestershire countryside through Defford, Ashton-under-Hill and Pershore.  more...

Ridvan festival gives Baha'is cause to celebrate

BAHA'IS in Worcestershire will be joining millions of others across the world for the start of the 12 day Ridvan festival on Monday (21).  more...

Famous hairstylist appears in court

A CELEBRITY hairdresser shot at a farmer with an air rifle before pelting him with stones, Worcester Crown Court was told.  more...

Win could be in vain

ALCESTER recorded an excellent, hard fought 12-0 win at third placed Pinley, but their efforts to stave off relegation from Midland Five West South look to have been in vain.  more...

Rubery thrashed

AN understrength Rubery Ladies side without a game in six weeks were taught a footballing lesson by table topping Kingshurst at Bay Tree Farm on Sunday, losing 7-0.  more...

Kids crowned champions

CHILDREN from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic First School in Redditch were recently crowned Redditch and District basketball champions at the Abbey Stadium.  more...

Force is with club

TEMPLE Grafton Cricket Club took part in the ECB's Cricket Force on Saturday afternoon as they made preparations for the forthcoming season.  more...

Lions look to roar

Redditch Leisure Leagues Round Up   more...

Club takes titles away

THE Hereford and Worcester Fencing Age Group championships took place recently at Studley High School after the usual venue at St Augustine's School in Redditch lost the booking.  more...

Stopper Ross now scorer

STUDLEY boss Lee Adams hailed versatile Lee Ross after the goalkeeper cum striker hit a hat-trick in the 4-2 win at Stratford Town.  more...

Ladies’ future on a knife edge

REDDITCH Ladies Hockey Club played Luton in the sixth placed play off match between Midlands Conference East and West and came out victorious in a dramatic and tense match.  more...

City secure safety with easy win

BIRMINGHAM City Ladies secured their top flight status in style on Sunday with a routine 4-0 win over an already relegated Charlton.  more...

Cunnington to step down

ALVECHURCH boss Shaun Cunnington made sure he got one piece of silverware under his belt at least before he leaves the club.  more...

Latest News

Students learn about the dangers of arson

STUDENT thespians set the stage alight when they shot a fire safety video to warn youngsters about the dangers of arson.  more...

Latets

Birthday bash with forces theme

AN armed forces re-enactment of the Second World War was carried out at a residential home in Alvechurch as two residents celebrated their 100th and 102nd birthdays.  more...

NHS bullies on increase

STAFF at the Alexandra Hospital are among a growing number of Worcestershire NHS workers who have, in the last 12 months, recorded a significant increase in harassment, bullying or physical violence, according to a recent survey.  more...

Leisure General

Packed programme at Market Theatre

FROM a pride of African lions to songs from the Lion King, from Defoe's literary classic Moll Flanders to one of this year's best sellers The Kite Runner, Ledbury's Market Theatre has a varied programme this Spring with plays, music and film to suit all tastes.  more...

Letters

Soon there will not be any space for housing

Sir - How refreshing it was to read Councillor Mike Layland's letter, (Monday, April 7), concerning affordable' housing. He always presents his views clearly, without resorting to politician-speak' mumbo-jumbo and gets straight to the heart of the matter.  more...

Soon there will not be any space for housing

Sir - How refreshing it was to read Councillor Mike Layland's letter, (Monday, April 7), concerning affordable' housing. He always presents his views clearly, without resorting to politician-speak' mumbo-jumbo and gets straight to the heart of the matter.  more...

Apologies to offer on the EU directive

Sir - Mark Starr suggests I should make an apology for my comments regarding his deliberate distortions on the new EU pyrotechnics directive. I will offer not one apology but two.  more...

Councillor seems to be confused

SIR - Once again, we read in (Councillor Mike Layland's letter, April 7), that he does not support the income from the sale of former council houses being invested in building new homes.  more...

More at Sheffield House than stated

SIR - Regarding the planned closure of Sheffield House, I am reliably informed that the spokesman for the Mental Health Trust has, no doubt with the best of intentions, severely underestimated the occupancy rate of this facility, which is something over 70 per cent, not less than 50 per cent as stated.  more...

I’m intrigued by donation comment

SIR - I was intrigued by Mike Foster's comment regarding the donation, legit by accounts received, by the Conservatives from a Texan businessman.  more...

Heritage gives way to soulless town

I WAS much impressed to read one of your more enlightened letters, composed by Ken Jackson, Stop sitting on your assets' (Shuttle, March 20).  more...

SVR brings host of benefits

I WRITE in reply to recent letters in your columns, critical of the Severn Valley Railway's receipt of considerable grants from various institutions towards flood damage repairs.  more...

Shambles on bus

LAST Wednesday my wife and I decided to use our new bus pass with a trip to Birmingham.  more...

Alternative poll

I WRITE regarding your online poll concerning the extra cost of organic food.  more...

Lea Castle – what happens now?

WITH deep sadness I sat through the meeting at the town hall, knowing full well we had lost the battle to keep Lea Castle open.  more...

Run for Hospice

YOU may have watched the London Marathon, and been amazed by the commitment and hard work demonstrated by each runner.  more...

Run for Hospice

YOU may have watched the London Marathon, and been amazed by the commitment and hard work demonstrated by each runner.  more...

Run for Hospice

YOU may have watched the London Marathon, and been amazed by the commitment and hard work demonstrated by each runner.  more...

Hospital design

ON the strength of your images, it seems clear Malvern's new hospital will be an entirely inoffensive exercise in post-modernism and, as such, better than most other new buildings in our town. With a few notable exceptions, almost all are timid recreations of the past: just look, for example, at the bland blocks of repro flats that litter Graham Road. It's strange that a town whose biggest employer since 1942 has been Europe's largest technology organisation should display such instinctive conservatism when it comes to architecture. How interesting, too, that the one institution prepared to take a risk in this field is a school for young ladies founded in the 19th Century. As Malvern Girls' College, it commissioned the innovative Duke of Edinburgh Dome (which employed novel construction techniques and which is rightly being considered for listing), while the new Malvern St. James' nearly-finished sports hall seems set to be one of Malvern's few truly 21st Century structures.  more...

Matt Neal'S Win At Rockingham In The British Touring Car Championship

Banter

Matt Neal shares a joke with Team Halfords driver Gordon Shedden.  more...

Head on

Neal hits the straights of Rockingham.  more...

Side view

Neal takes a corner at the Northamptonshire circuit.  more...

Quick thinking

Neal makes his move.  more...

Job done

A clever move is completed by Neal as he works his way through the field.  more...

Away he goes

After working his way through the field, it is time for the Droitwich race ace to build on his advantage.  more...

Treacherous

Drivers had horrible weather conditions to contend with.  more...

Aloft

Neal celebrates victory in the day's third race at Rockingham.  more...

All smiles

Neal is delighted with his win.  more...

Podium

The winning moment is savoured with second and third placed drivers Tom Chilton and Adam Jones.  more...

Up for the cup

Neal shows off his latest piece of silverware.  more...

Bubbly jubbly

The champagne corkers are popped.  more...

May Elections

OLDINGTON/FOLEY PARK

PAUL MILLS (Labour): Paul is married with 3 children and has always lived in Wyre Forest. He has worked at Brintons for 30 years with a reputation as a senior trade union representative of helping real people with real problems. He was elected as a County Councillor in May 2005. In the last 12 months he has helped many people with many problems, including paths, roads, streetlights, mini motor bikes, abandoned vehicles, and anti-social behaviour. Paul's priorities are: tackle ongoing problems of anti-social behaviour, working closely with police, council and housing associations. Resolve public transport problems. Fight for more money for local schools and deliver the best health service for local people. Attract new manufacturing to our area and support existing business. Paul is working with Advantage West Midlands and other interested parties to bring employment to the old sugar beet site.  more...

BEWDLEY & ARLEY

LOUISE EDGINTON (Independent): I have lived in Bewdley for fifty-two years and been a councillor for thirty-two. Major council initiatives have included protection of the green belt, action regarding local transport and services and support for youth. Planning at local level requires constant vigilance and good local experience. As the only independent candidate for Bewdley & Arley I provide an independent voice and can do more for people with local issues having no restrictions from a party whip. I am available to help residents all year round not just at election time and run a surgery in Bewdley Library on the first Saturday of every month and attend Arley Parish Council meetings.  more...

BEWDLEY & ARLEY

LOUISE EDGINTON (Independent): I have lived in Bewdley for fifty-two years and been a councillor for thirty-two. Major council initiatives have included protection of the green belt, action regarding local transport and services and support for youth. Planning at local level requires constant vigilance and good local experience. As the only independent candidate for Bewdley & Arley I provide an independent voice and can do more for people with local issues having no restrictions from a party whip. I am available to help residents all year round not just at election time and run a surgery in Bewdley Library on the first Saturday of every month and attend Arley Parish Council meetings.I always put residents interests first, phone me or stop me in the town, I always have time to listen and try to help. My record shows that I am a councillor you can trust to work for you.  more...

BEWDLEY & ARLEY

DEREK KILLINGWORTH (Independent Health Concern): Derek came to Bewdley 20 years ago. He left then returned nine years ago and has now made Bewdley his home. He says there is no better place to live. His two sons have progressed through their schooling in Bewdley and Derek is pleased at the standard of education they have received in the town. Derek says: "I currently have had the honour to represent Bewdley as an Independent Health Concern town councillor for the past two years, during which time I have done my best to represent and promote Bewdley in every way I can. I would now love the opportunity to also represent you as your district councillor and give to the community the wealth of experience and knowledge I have to offer to benefit our town.I have supported Dr Taylor and Health Concern for a number of years, believing that they offer something truly different in local politics."  more...

BEWDLEY & ARLEY

BILL MASON (Labour): Being born and raised in Bewdley I care passionately about the town and its hinterland. During the year 2000 I had the privilege of being elected Mayor of Bewdley and as a member of several community related organisations including the opportunity Bewdley environment group, chairman of the footpaths and bridleways association and president of the Bewdley branch of the Royal British Legion and the Bewdley Chamber of Trade I am well aware of the peoples needs and concerns in and around Bewdley. I have a keen interest in local bus services and I believe that there is still much to be done to improve them, particularly in rural areas. I shall continue to serve Bewdley and district as my record shows, whether I am elected or not.  more...

BEWDLEY & ARLEY

JULIAN PHILLIPS (Conservative): I am a local Bewdley resident. I am 23 years old. I went to the town's local schools and I am currently a governor at the High School. Many residents of Bewdley & Arley already know me, as I am a keen Severn Valley Railway supporter and worked for many years in a retail store in Load Street. I have been campaigning with the Conservative team over recent months on a range of issues from flooding, highways and telecommunication masts. Residents will already know that I have worked hard alongside them on a variety of concerns in the ward. From this they will also know that no issue is too big or too small for me to address. The scope of what I can do for them will only widen if the people of Bewdley and Arley elect me to represent them as their district councillor.  more...

ARELEY KINGS

CHRIS THOMAS (Independent): Chris Thomas was born and bred in Stourport. He is currently Stourport town councillor for Areley Kings. Chris fully supports the regeneration of the Stourport basins and canals and hopes this will bring more visitors to Wyre Forest. Chris says: "The number of empty and boarded-up shops and businesses in Stourport is detracting from the appeal of our historic Georgian town. We need to develop a strategy to explore what incentives and grants are available for new and existing businesses, which will enhance and contribute to the redevelopment, opening up Bridge Street to the Stourport Basins. This needs to be brought to an early conclusion.I also believe the council should be putting the community first and not spending £15 million plus on new council offices. Council tax should be better spent on needed services. Help me to help you. Give me your support."  more...

ARELEY KINGS

JAMIE SHAW (Labour): Jamie has lived at Redstone Lane with his wife Josie for thirty years. They have two grown-up daughters. First elected to the district council in 1984, Jamie has served Areley Kings ever since. Everyone has heard of him because he is a very active ward councillor and major contributor to Labour's "Areley Kings Rose". Jamie has been by far the most influential Stourport councillor in the development and the regeneration of Stourport town centre now getting underway. He says: "The next few years will see around a dozen initiatives come to fruition in the town centre. With your support, I will be there to help shape what I helped to start."  more...

ARELEY KINGS

IAIN PRICE (Liberal): Like all his Liberal candidate colleagues Iain, who is currently retraining as an electrician in his brother's firm is committed to the Liberal pledge for Wyre Forest. Liberal councillors will: support the move to a single site headquarters which will save you £750,000 per year, support a new Depot site but only if it is shared with The Housing Company and is not at the bottom of Broad Street, fight for improved street cleaning, campaign for efficient kerbside recycling which takes all our recyclables, insist on more action to deal with anti-social behaviour, fight for improved leisure facilities in all parts of the district, work with community groups to improve our area, insist that action is taken against known drug dealers, campaign for improved bus services, fight for improvements at Kidderminster Railway Station, work closely with our PACT partners to improve community safety, demand that the County Council improves the grass verges on local estates, insist that the Council listens to you and gives you real value for money.  more...

ARELEY KINGS

IAIN PRICE (Liberal): Like all his Liberal candidate colleagues Iain, who is currently retraining as an electrician in his brother's firm is committed to the Liberal pledge for Wyre Forest. Liberal councillors will: support the move to a single site headquarters which will save you £750,000 per year, support a new Depot site but only if it is shared with The Housing Company and is not at the bottom of Broad Street, fight for improved street cleaning, campaign for efficient kerbside recycling which takes all our recyclables, insist on more action to deal with anti-social behaviour, fight for improved leisure facilities in all parts of the district, work with community groups to improve our area, insist that action is taken against known drug dealers, campaign for improved bus services, fight for improvements at Kidderminster Railway Station, work closely with our PACT partners to improve community safety, demand that the County Council improves the grass verges on local estates, insist that the Council listens to you and gives you real value for money.  more...

ARELEY KINGS

IAIN PRICE (Liberal): Like all his Liberal candidate colleagues Iain, who is currently retraining as an electrician in his brother's firm is committed to the Liberal pledge for Wyre Forest. Liberal councillors will: support the move to a single site headquarters which will save you £750,000 per year, support a new Depot site but only if it is shared with The Housing Company and is not at the bottom of Broad Street, fight for improved street cleaning, campaign for efficient kerbside recycling which takes all our recyclables, insist on more action to deal with anti-social behaviour, fight for improved leisure facilities in all parts of the district, work with community groups to improve our area, insist that action is taken against known drug dealers, campaign for improved bus services, fight for improvements at Kidderminster Railway Station, work closely with our PACT partners to improve community safety, demand that the County Council improves the grass verges on local estates, insist that the Council listens to you and gives you real value for money.  more...

ARELEY KINGS

MIKE PARTRIDGE (Conservative): I moved to Stourport with my wife in 1968 and lived on The Birches, Hartlebury Road where my son was born. We moved to Redstone Lane, Areley Kings in 1985 where I live presently. I have run a small business building and repairing trucks in the area for 35 years. I became interested in local issues and was elected to Stourport Town Council on which I have served for 12 years. I have also represented the residents of Areley Kings on the district council for 2 years. I became Mayor of Stourport in 2006 which was hard work but most enjoyable. I have been a trustee of Areley Kings Village Hall for several years and am very involved with the new playing area on the recreation park. I am also involved with the Wild Walshes Play Project. If elected I promise to continue working for the people of Areley Kings and Stourport trying to improve the roads, street signage and helping with local issues.  more...

FRANCHE

LEE WRIGHT (Labour): I have lived in Kidderminster for over 30 years and know the specific needs of the area. My priorities in fighting for better services for you are: education - the Schools Review driven through by the Tories will have a dramatic effect on all schools and children well beyond 2007. As a school governor, I know the uncertainty faced by hardworking teachers and support staff. I pledge to help make the transition as painless as possible. Learning and skills - training should continue for all ages to learn new skills as employment opportunities are constantly changing.  more...

FRANCHE

LEE WRIGHT (Labour): I have lived in Kidderminster for over 30 years and know the specific needs of the area. My priorities in fighting for better services for you are: education - the Schools Review driven through by the Tories will have a dramatic effect on all schools and children well beyond 2007. As a school governor, I know the uncertainty faced by hardworking teachers and support staff. I pledge to help make the transition as painless as possible. Learning and skills - training should continue for all ages to learn new skills as employment opportunities are constantly changing. Integrated transport - improved and more frequent bus services together with better rail services. Improved highways and infrastructure - as a consulting engineer, I can see only too well the backlog of work needed to restore our road network. Delivering integrated services that relate to peoples needs and protects the vulnerable in society.  more...

FRANCHE

ALANE HARVEY: (Liberal): Like all her Liberal candidate colleagues Alane, an experienced carer of adults with learning difficulties, is committed to: the Liberal pledge for Wyre Forest. Liberal Councillors will: support the move to a single site headquarters which will save you £750,000 per year, support a new depot site but only if it is shared with The Housing Company and isnot at the bottom of Broad Street, fight for improved street cleaning, campaign for efficient kerbside recycling which takes all our recyclables, insist on more action to deal with anti-social behaviour, fight for improved leisure facilities in all parts of the district, work with community groups to improve our area, insist that action is taken against known drug dealers, campaign for improved bus service, fight for improvements at Kidderminster Railway Station, work closely with our PACT partners to improve community safet, demand that the County Council improves the grass verges on local estates, insist that the council listens to you and gives you real value for money.  more...

FRANCHE

RAYMOND BARBER (Independent Health Concern): I was born in Broad Street, and followed my father into the carpet industry. I am presently employed at Brintons and as a long standing union activist I have a strong background in helping people. I remember Kidderminster when we had two vibrant Hospitals. These provided excellent healthcare and employment for the area and I want to help improve local services again. Also we need to provide more alternative employment options. I hope I have developed an insight into the problems we face as a community. Just one of these is the need to tackle the problem of local play areas that are frequented by older children, thus subjecting parents and toddlers to inappropriate behaviour. Anti-social behaviour will be a priority for me, but there are many more issues that I want to tackle to improve the area. However, there is much more I also want to do.  more...

FRANCHE

JEFF BAKER (Conservative): I am a Kidderminster man and have lived all my life in this area. For the first 44 years, I lived in Broadwaters and, for the last 24 years, in Marlpool Lane. I was educated at Sladen Secondary School and then started my working life in the building trade. After 11 years, I left to go into the local carpet industry. I started on the shop floor and later was promoted to the quality control department at what was Gilt Edge Carpets. I completed my working life at Adam Carpets, where I was quality manager for 14 years. I was a director of Kidderminster Harriers for 21 years.I was also secretary of the Kidderminster and District Cricket League for 25 years and was a serving umpire for 29 years. Sport is my abiding interest and I am continually pushing for the improvement of sporting facilities within Wyre Forest. I was a magistrate for 17 years and, for 12 of those years, I was a Licensing Magistrate. I have been an activist for the Conservative party for most of my adult life both in the old St Marys Ward and in Franche Ward. I was successful in winning the Franche seat in 2004.  more...

BROADWATERS

DAN WATSON (Labour): I am proud to live in Kidderminster. It's my home town and its a great place to raise a young family. I attended St George's and King Charles Schools before going to Kidderminster College and Lancaster University. I now run the UK office of Michael Cashman MEP.Just like you, I pay my council tax and use local services. I believe in strong local communities and keeping you and your family safe. My priorities for Broadwaters and Kidderminster include:ensuring that the council makes effective use of legislation to tackle fly-tipping, graffiti and anti-social behaviour, ensuring that local people know the names and contact details of their local police officers, supporting continued Government investment in our new and refurbished schools, supporting Broadwaters residents who apply to live in Broadwaters properties owned by the Community Housing Group, securing a long term future for our Neighbourhood Wardens.  more...

BROADWATERS

SHAZU MIAH (Liberal): Shazu Miah is a long standing local campaigner. Born and educated locally he is in practise as a solicitor in Worcester. Living on the edge of Broadwaters Ward, Shazu has a young son who attends St. George's CE Primary School. Shazu is appalled at the way the County Council has neglected the much loved Sladen School building and believes that the Adult and 14-19 Education Centre which is planned to be built on the site must have facilities for community use. Shazu believes that waste of £750,000 a year of our council tax which goes straight down the drain because Wyre Forest operates so many inefficient offices must stop. He believes that thecCouncil should show its commitment to regeneration of The Horsefair area by investing in a new Single Site Office' in the Churchfields area. Shazu is actively involved in setting up the new Friends of St. George's Park. He is disgusted at the way the council has failed to provide the promised new Play Area off Queen St. He is campaigning for more police and wardens to cut anti-social behaviour and is an active supporter of the Horsefair, Broadwaters and Greenhill Neighbourhood Partnership   more...

BROADWATERS

LINDA CANDLIN (Independent Health Concern): Linda was born in Kidderminster, having lived in the area all her life. She is the sister of well known and respected district councillor, Mike Shellie. She says: "With three grown-up children, I am well aware of the problems that can be encountered when bringing up a family. Now that my children have grown up, I want to devote my time to helping the community and, where I can, addressing issues that affect us all. Health and community matters of all types are a constant daily worry for everyone and need addressing, which is why I am very happy to be asked to stand as an Independent Health Concern candidate for the Broadwaters ward. With the support of your two existing Health Concern councillors, Ken Stokes and Howard Martin, if elected, I will do all that I can to help improve the quality of life in the Broadwaters ward."  more...

BROADWATERS

MUMSHAD AHMED (Conservative): My name is Mumshad Ahmed and I am a Kidderminster man through and through'. I have lived in the Broadwaters ward all my life. I was educated at St Mary's Primary School and Sladen Middle School. Three of my four children now attend St George's First School. When I left school I started my own business. My first self-employed business in the catering industry was on Stourbridge Road in the heart of Broadwaters. We have now moved to larger premises in Comberton Place. I have been an activist in the Conservative Party since 1997 working with an excellent, enthusiastic team that get things done. Spending time with my young family, playing in the park with my children means the world to me and I want to keep Broadwaters a happy, safe place for them to grow up in. I care about this ward and I will make a difference.  more...

HABBERLEY/BLAKEBROOK

KEN PROSSER (Conservative): Having recently celebrated 50 years in Kidderminster, I thought that it was about time I gave something back to the town that has been my home for so long. One of the ways would be for me to have some input into the way that the district is organised, by serving as a local councillor. I hope that the electorate feel that I might be sufficiently civically minded to serve them and try to improve both the feel and status of the town. There is little doubt that, over the years, Wyre Forest has changed in character - some would say for the better, some would say for the worst. For me, it has kept the vibrancy that it had when I first came here, but in a different form. So, on May 1st, I shall be standing in the Habberley & Blakebrook Ward of the Wyre Forest District Council and I hope that the electorate will give me their support.  more...

HABBERLEY/BLAKEBROOK

BARRY MCFARLAND (Labour): Barry has lived in Kidderminster for 36 years. He is married and has 4 daughters and 4 grandchildren. He has recently retired as a national education manager for a trade union, prior to that he was a college lecturer. Barry has vast experience having previously served as a councillor. He has been involved in many local campaigns, eg. to bring palliative care beds to and to secure a Radiotherapy Unit in Kidderminster Hospital; 20 mph speed zones outside our schools; measures to increase the safety of our road junctions. Barry opposes the building of a multi-million pound Civic Centre. Barry wants the return of weekly wheelie bin collections. He advocates high quality repairs/resurfacing of our roads and pavements. He supports Labour's proposal to appoint additional, full-time street cleaning crews. Barry would like to see more money from the sale of council houses used to provide additional housing in the district.  more...

HABBERLEY/BLAKEBROOK

VICKY DIXON (Liberal Democrat): Wyre Forest born and bred, Vicky Dixon has been unanimously chosen to fight the Habberley & Blakebrook seat for the Liberal Democrats in this year's elections on May 1. Vicky said: "I am honoured to have been selected to fight for the seat. I can assure all residents that if returned as their next councillor, I will work hard for everyone." Vicky is very much the local girl. She works in retail management at one of Kidderminster's largest stores and has gained promotion rapidly through hard work and the understanding of both business and customers' needs. As a student, Vicky successfully attended Wolverly High School before studying for a diploma in fine art in Worcester.  more...

HABBERLEY/BLAKEBROOK

NIGEL ADDISON (Independent Health Concern): Born in Wyre Forest, Nigel has considerable experience in working with and for the community, twice being a district councillor and parish council chairman. He has campaigned on many local issues, including the Wolverhampton Airport and schools review. One of his main concerns is crime and anti-social behaviour in the area, as well as the rebuilding plans of local schools, especially the one-site special school proposed for Habberley Road. Nigel says: "I am delighted to be chosen by Health Concern to be candidate for Habberley and Blakebrook and promise residents that I will be an effective and active councillor for the area and will make myself available to you all putting people before politics'. There are exciting challenges facing the district in the next few years and I hope that you put your trust in me to be at the forefront of decisions that will affect you."  more...

MITTON

GARY WATSON (Labour): Gary lives in Lower Lickhill Road and is married with 2 children. He attended Bewdley High School and works at West Midland Safari Park and has served as a Parish Councillor for Rock. Gary attends all local PACT meetings and considers this police initiative to be a success. He is aware of resident's concerns about underage drinking and anti-social behavior and would like to work alongside the authorities to tackle this. One obvious issue to address is lack of investment in youth services and affordable leisure activities. Another issue causing concern is the number of potholes. He says: "Local councillors have done little to address this, leaving motorists fuming and cyclists, including myself, in danger of being thrown off their bikes." He will campaign to ensure that the highways authority gives Stourport's roads and pavements a fair share of funding.  more...

MITTON

JIM PARISH (Independent Health Concern): Jim has lived in Mitton since 1994. He is keenly interested in local issues and was a county councillor for four years. Currently he is Health Concern leader of Stourport Town Council and deputy mayor and, as a retired businessman, now has time to address the issues that affect you. Jim says: "Living in the town centre, and being fully retired, I can bring a wealth of experience to help improve our town and I'm always available to help the people of Mitton with local issues. I want to ensure that the highest standards of local government are applied in Wyre Forest, giving a full value for money administration. I believe Independent Health Concern can meet that aim. I will continue to support Dr Taylor MP, in his efforts to improve health care in Worcestershire, as well as all the other issues on which he and Health Concern are so effectively active."  more...

MITTON

JOHN HOLDEN (Conservative): I have been married to my wife Glenys for 31 years and we have two daughters who were educated at Hagley RC High school, went to University, and now have careers based in London. I have always been an active community person' and, before becoming a councillor, previously served as a magistrate. I moved to my present address in Stourport, when I took a position as regional development manager for the Meat and Livestock Commission belonging to their Marketing Department. During that time I gained my advanced food hygiene certificate and teaching qualifications. In the year 2000, I graduated at Worcester College with a 2/1 Honours Degree in Business Management twinned with Home Economics. I came into politics when I joined Stourport Town Council in 2003, and, in 2004, was elected to Wyre Forest District Council and Worcestershire County Council in 2005. My main interest in politics is to serve local people and try and make a difference at local level. Last year, I was promoted to cabinet member for corporate and customer services on the district council. I am also a governor at St Wulstans RC and Hartlebury C of E Primary Schools.  more...

MITTON

MIKE DIXON (Liberal Democrat): Mike Dixon is 50 years old and has lived in Kidderminster for over 20 years. He has been married to Pam for over 29 years and has two children and is expecting his second grandchild later this year. Mike has a background in sales, marketing and training but has also turned his hand to catering and boat building in his time. Mike is presently a full time key organiser for the Liberal Democrats. Politically Mike has had a vast experience of campaigning for the Liberal democrats having previously been a candidate in the Westminster and European Elections. Mike is also heavily involved with the party nationally being a member of the Regional Executive. His keen areas of interest are in police, crime and having been a co-author to National Policy. I will be campaigning for better road repairs and better public transport.  more...

MITTON

MIKE DIXON (Liberal Democrat): Mike Dixon is 50 years old and has lived in Kidderminster for over 20 years. He has been married to Pam for over 29 years and has two children and is expecting his second grandchild later this year. Mike has a background in sales, marketing and training but has also turned his hand to catering and boat building in his time. Mike is presently a full time key organiser for the Liberal Democrats. Politically Mike has had a vast experience of campaigning for the Liberal democrats having previously been a candidate in the Westminster and European Elections. Mike is also heavily involved with the party nationally being a member of the Regional Executive. His keen areas of interest are in police, crime and having been a co-author to National Policy. I will be campaigning for better road repairs and better public transport.  more...

OFFMORE/COMBERTON

GILL SMITH (Independent Health Concern): Gill has been involved with Independent Health Concern for a number of years and her interest in community matters has grown as a result of it. She now feels ready to take a greater role and is pleased to have been selected to be your Health Concern candidate at these years' elections. Gill says "The opportunity to stand as your local Councillor, when asked, was too good a chance to miss. There are so many issues in and around the area that need addressing that I would welcome the chance to do my bit. I know I do not have the experience of the existing ward councillor but I do have a desire to learn and give dedicated support and commitment to you all. Change will happen eventually and we all have to start somewhere. Give me that chance now and I will not let you down."  more...

OFFMORE/COMBERTON

GILL SMITH (Independent Health Concern): Gill has been involved with Independent Health Concern for a number of years and her interest in community matters has grown as a result of it. She now feels ready to take a greater role and is pleased to have been selected to be your Health Concern candidate at these years' elections. Gill says "The opportunity to stand as your local Councillor, when asked, was too good a chance to miss. There are so many issues in and around the area that need addressing that I would welcome the chance to do my bit. I know I do not have the experience of the existing ward councillor but I do have a desire to learn and give dedicated support and commitment to you all. Change will happen eventually and we all have to start somewhere. Give me that chance now and I will not let you down."  more...

OFFMORE/COMBERTON

FRAN OBORSKI (Liberal): The longest serving and most experienced member of Wyre Forest District Council Fran is standing for re-election in Offmore Comberton Ward. Fran has overseen massive improvements in Kidderminster as a whole and Offmore Comberton in particular in the last 35 years a few of these are: as chairman of the Environmental Health Committee she was responsible for the introduction of the popular Wheelie Bin refuse collection system, as chairman of the Planning and Highways Committee she was responsible for the pedestrianisation of Kidderminster Town Centre, she has been a key player in persuading the Housing Company to work with Offmore Comberton Action Group to get the £250,000 plus upgrade to Borrington Park, she was actively involved decision to build much needed new homes on the old Comberton Arms site, working with local residents and shop keepers she played a key part in getting the new Longfellow Green Development off the ground, she is committed to stopping the waste of £750,000 a year on all the separate council offices and getting A Single Site Council Office in the Churchfields area. In Offmore Comberton nearly everyone knows someone who has been helped by Fran.  more...

OFFMORE/COMBERTON

GILLIAN ONSLOW (Conservative): Gill Onslow, former retailer of the House of Onslow' on the corner of Coventry Street and Bromsgrove Street has been selected as the local Conservative candidate for the Offmore & Comberton Ward. Some people may remember Gill from her days as a local retailer in her fashion accessories shop on the corner of Coventry Street and Bromsgrove Street in the 1980s. Gill is the daughter of a former local business man, county councillor and 4 times president of the Kidderminster Chamber of Commerce and the wife of another local business man whose family have traded in Kidderminster for some 9 generations. She opened her own business after working at Owen Owen department store for 8 years. Gill has three children and has lived in Kidderminster since1954 and in the Offmore and Comberton area since1994. Gill will make an excellent district councillor for the residents of Offmore & Comberton.  more...

OFFMORE/COMBERTON

MATTHEW NICHOLLS (Labour): Matt has lived in Kidderminster all his life and is married with children. He attended local schools and universities. Having worked in local government and education Matt believes he has the right experience to help the people of Offmore and Comberton. Matt has helped to campaign for a radiotherapy unit at Kidderminster Hospital and also supports the "20's plenty" road safety campaign to reduce speed outside schools. "With children of my own", says Matt, "I understand concern over road safety especially near schools." Matt is also keen to see a return to weekly bin collections - "we must have weekly collections, in order to reduce smells and the chance of rats in the neighbourhood." Matt is also opposed to the building of a new civic centre: " We don't need it," argues Matt, "the money saved can be used to help local services and I know residents in Offmore and Comberton can see the sense in that."  more...

GREENHILL

LYNNE WAINEWRIGHT (Independent Health Concern): Lynne has lived in Wyre Forest for over 10 years now and is very committed to the area. Her interest in people and health has led her to become involved with Health Concern. Consequently, she now has a strong desire to take this forward by becoming a councillor in Greenhill. Lynne says: "If all the non-voters are fed up with having no positive changes made by their local councillors, please give Health Concern a chance to change it and make Wyre Forest a better, cleaner and safer place to live. We really do care and are the only party that will make a real difference. Really, I am just like any one of you, a mum who works but cares about people and where we live. Health Concern has shown me that you don't have to be political' to be concerned so I am pleased they asked me to stand in Greenhill."  more...

GREENHILL

PETER NIELSEN (Labour): Peter Nielsen is a retired project manager and part-time lecturer with a past career in IT and in teaching. He has also worked recently as a part-time warden in a sheltered housing unit. He has served the community on councils and school governing bodies in the county in the past, and has stood for Parliament. He is a graduate of the Bradford School of Peace Studies and holds a further and adult education teaching qualification. In his spare time, he reads, writes, works out at the gym, and looks after his baby granddaughter one day a week. He is a member of the Unite Union and CND.  more...

GREENHILL

PETER NIELSEN (Labour): Peter Nielsen is a retired project manager and part-time lecturer with a past career in IT and in teaching. He has also worked recently as a part-time warden in a sheltered housing unit. He has served the community on councils and school governing bodies in the county in the past, and has stood for Parliament. He is a graduate of the Bradford School of Peace Studies and holds a further and adult education teaching qualification. In his spare time, he reads, writes, works out at the gym, and looks after his baby granddaughter one day a week. He is a member of the Unite Union and CND.  more...

GREENHILL

GRAHAM BALLINGER (Liberal): Long serving Greenhill District Councillor, Graham Ballinger is standing for re-election. Having spent his career in social care; including, until his recent retirement, being chief executive of a major voluntary sector provider of care to the vulnerable elderly where he oversaw a multi-million pound budget. Graham is only too well aware of the crisis facing adult services in Worcestershire following years of Conservative under-investment. Graham is horrified at the threat to mental health services at the Edward Parry Centre in Radford Avenue. As a grandfather of children at local schools, and a governor of King Charles 1 High School, Graham is only too well aware of the disruption still being caused to the lives of local families by the shortage of Primary School places in the Greenhill area. As chair of the Wyre Forest Council's influential Corporate Services and Performance Scrutiny Committee, Graham has been influential in forcing the authority to become more efficient. Graham is a constant critic of poor public service and regularly complains about the appalling level of litter on our streets. He believes that Wyre Forest must stop wasting £750,000 of our council tax every year and move to a Single Site in the Churchfields area.  more...

GREENHILL

AMMAR AHMAD (Conservative): Ammar Ahmad has been working with his Conservative colleagues for the past 28 months and in that time he has gained a great deal of respect from the local community and has shown fantastic enthusiasm and commitment to his chosen Ward of Greenhill. I supports the move to a Single Site Headquarters at Crossley Park which will save you £750,000 per year. Being a local schoolteacher and governor I also supports the £150 million pounds worth of investment into our schools in Wyre Forest thanks to the Conservative controlled Worcestershire County Council. Last year I led a campaign for cleaner wards and was pleased when the district Conservative council announced that they would employ three more street cleaners. I am also campaigning for the installation of flashing slow downs sign to be installed in Hoo Road. I am the only candidate standing in Greenhill who lives in the ward. Elect me on May 1st and watch Greenhill more forward with a really positive ward councillor who cares.  more...

ROCK

JOHN SIMMONDS (Independent): I have represented Rock on the district council since its formation in 1973, always as an independent. I was chairman from 2004-2005, a vice chairman and the longest serving councillor on Rock Parish Council - almost 50 years without a break and chairman several times. I am a great believer in community spirit and I do all I can to create and develop it in Rock. I am chairman of the Far Forest society which owns 18 acres of land at Callow Hill with a top of the range pavilion, recently completed at no expense to the ratepayers and caters for all the needs of the parish, especially the younger generation. I am a semi-retired pig farmer and have lived and worked in Rock all my life, except for two years national service in the RAF. I feel proud and privileged to live in what I consider to be the most beautiful part of the country and will do all I can to serve it.  more...

ROCK

DOUGLAS GODWIN (Conservative): I am again your Conservative candidate for Rock. Born at Clows Top, I am a member of a local farming family and have lived most of my life in the district and as a result have an unparalleled empathy with this area. Educated at the King Charles School, I studied agriculture at Harper Adams College and the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester. My farming background and experience within the building trade is all valuable grist to the mill' when it comes to helping and understanding the concerns of Rock residents. Formerly, a district councillor for Malvern Hills, I have been working on Rock Parish Council over the past 4 years and I am currently the Parish Chairman. I am a Governor of a local Primary School. I left the farming industry and retrained as a solicitor. I am a keen, young, enthusiastic, breath of fresh air with the energy and drive to fight for the people of Rock on Wyre Forest District Council. It's now time for a change on May 1st - please vote for me.  more...

LICKHILL

CEDRIC SMITH (Labour): Cedric has been married to Julie for 38 years and has two grown up children. Cedric was a teacher for 23 years, 16 of them as senior Head of Department of Mathematics at Bewdley High School. He is a Chartered mathematician. He now runs his own business as an independent financial adviser. He has been a resident of Stourport for over 30 years. He has already served as a Wyre Forest District Councillor from 1980-84. He is a Lay Minister (Reader) in the Church of England. He has served as a school governor for 30 years being chairman of the Windmill First School for more than 10 years. He has been instrumental in appointing several of the head teachers in Stourport. He has worked with local residents to make progress on the golf course fly tipping' saga. He is working with residents to enhance the appearance of town centre.  more...

LICKHILL

DAVID LITTLE (Conservative): My name is David Little and I have lived in Stourport for the last forty-five years. I moved here from the North East. I work for Somerfield Research Station in Kidderminster. I was elected to Stourport Town Council in the early 1980's and have been active within the Lickhill Ward to the present day. I was on Wyre Forest District Council for 8 years. Outside politics I am a keen bowler, playing for The Gilt Edge Bowling Team. I was also Chairman of Burlish Park First School for 20 years and am still a Governor at Burlish Park Primary. I have had the privilege of representing the ward for the last 20 years and I would love the opportunity to continue to deliver for the area.  more...

LICKHILL

BRIAN GLASS (Independent Health Concern): Brian has lived in Stourport since 1964, and has had family here all his life. In his nine years as councillor he has done much to support the community and his record of service speaks for itself. Brian says, "Having represented Lickhill on the district council since 1999 I feel I am well aware of the issues that concern local residents. You are always very welcome to call at my shop (Mr Clean Calls) at the top of the High Street to discuss any problems you may have. I want to ensure that the highest standards of Local Government are applied in the Wyre Forest, giving a full value for money administration. That is why I am a long standing member of Independent Health Concern.Also, we must continue to support Dr Taylor MP in his efforts to improve health care in Worcestershire and, in particular, locally at Kidderminster Hospital."  more...

SUTTON PARK

DAVID PRAIN (Labour): David Prain is a retired solicitor with a reputation for getting things done.  more...

SUTTON PARK

DAVID PRAIN (Labour): David Prain is a retired solicitor with a reputation for getting things done. On crime and disorder he is particularly determined to make all areas of the town safer for young and old alike. He would ask the council to put in place further measures to protect the public.Environmental issues are also important to him and whether it is recycling or home insulation, he will campaign to improve the quality of our lives. He strongly supports Nigel Knowles in his campaign for a 20mph speed limit on all roads near schools. Like many areas of our town, Sutton Park's roads and pavements are potholed and often dangerous. David Prain will fight for more money to go into repairing the roads and pavements in Sutton Park. He will work with residents, the police and other agencies to stamp out anti-social behaviour in Sutton Park.  more...

SUTTON PARK

MARCUS HART (Conservative): I was first elected to represent Sutton Park in 2002. I also serve on Worcestershire County Council, having been elected to the St John's Division in 2005, representing many Sutton Park residents on county council issues as well. Since first elected, I have worked tirelessly on many issues. I have fought for much needed highway improvements, cleaner streets, lower council tax, whilst maintaining good public services. I have also represented residents on major planning issues. I have been a tireless campaigner for major road junction improvements at Sutton Park Road and Bewdley Hill and will continue to lobby the county council for a long term solution to this problem. I will continue to fight for much needed road resurfacing within parts of the ward. I believe that being a local politician is about working hard all year round and not just at election time. I believe that I do this through keeping in touch with regular newsletters. I keep residents informed of important local issues affecting the area. I also hold regular ward surgeries and am easily contactable. I am involved heavily in the local community, sitting on both the Sutton Park Primary School and Baxter College governing bodies. I sit on the PACT panel and attend the meetings and deal with residents issues wherever I can. I also attend the Friends of Brinton Park group and the Hillcrest Residents' Association meetings. I also attend Wyre Forest Community Housing Tennants meetings.  more...

SUTTON PARK

JOHN GRIFFITHS (Independent Health Concern): No details.  more...

SUTTON PARK

JOHN GRIFFITHS (Independent Health Concern): No details supplied.  more...

SUTTON PARK

ADRIAN BEAVIS (Liberal Democrat): I have lived in Sutton Park for 20 years and I am delighted to have been chosen to represent the Liberal Democrats in the Sutton Park ward. I am secretary of the Wyre Forest Liberal Democrats. I am also the standard barer for the Kidderminster branch of the Royal Navy Association. I have been a councillor on Wyre Forest District Council and also chair of governors for a local school. I regularly attend the Sutton Park PACT meetings so I know the concerns of the local residents about crime, anti-social behaviour and general nuisance, and part of my campaign is for more police in our area. I shall also be fighting for better education for local children, better public transport and better road repairs.  more...

OLDINGTON/FOLEY PARK

PETER YOUNG (Independent Health Concern): Peter has supported Dr Richard Taylor MP and Independent Health Concern for many years now building up considerable knowledge of the different issues that are of concern to Wyre Forest residents. Consequently, he feels he is now well equipped to offer himself for election as your councillor in Oldington & Foley Park. Peter says: "I have lived in Kidderminster for more than twenty years and I was absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the Independent Health Concern candidate for Oldington & Foley Park. I understand the many varied problems and issues that affect the area and believe my experience would be invaluable in helping address them. Independent Health Concern is about much more than just Health. We are very actively involved in all issues that affect the quality of life in Wyre Forest. I would welcome the opportunity to act on these matters for your benefit."  more...

OLDINGTON/FOLEY PARK

SAMANTHA WALKER (Liberal Democrat): I have lived all my life in Kidderminster and I am delighted to have been chosen to fight in the Oldington and Foley Park ward. I am Chairman of the Wyre Forest Liberal Democrats and also Chair of Governors at a local Primary School after being a parent governor for the last 6 years. I take the education and future of our young children very seriously. I have also been involved with the scouts for 6 years which I find very rewarding. I have two children both of whom attend local schools. I have worked for social services for 16 years within the community by helping the elderly live a full and independent life in their own homes. I know the concerns of the local residents and will campaign on issues about reducing crime, anti-social behaviour and better road repairs. I have regular contact with the Oldington and Foley Park Urban Safety Committee.  more...

OLDINGTON/FOLEY PARK

PAUL MILLS (Labour): Paul is married with 3 children and has always lived in Wyre Forest. He has worked at Brintons for 30 years with a reputation as a senior trade union representative of helping real people with real problems. He was elected as a County Councillor in May 2005. In the last 12 months he has helped many people with many problems, including paths, roads, streetlights, mini motor bikes, abandoned vehicles, and anti-social behaviour. Paul's priorities are: tackle ongoing problems of anti-social behaviour, working closely with police, council and housing associations.  more...

OLDINGTON/FOLEY PARK

NATHAN DESMOND (Conservative): I am one of your two Conservative district councillors for Oldington & Foley Park. In the six years that I have had to represent you, I have worked tirelessly to improve Oldington and Foley Park and I am determined to continue doing that work. So far some of my major achievements have been: led a successful campaign against a telephone mast application on the Rifle Range, provided new road surfaces and new pavements in Kinver Avenue and Gould Avenue on the Birchen Coppice, stopped the illegal parking of vehicles on the pavements of Beauchamp Avenue, had the lime trees trimmed in Beauchamp Avenue, Neville Avenue and Blount Terrace, had Rifle Range Road and Shrawley Avenue roads completely resurfaced, had numerous extra litter bins installed throughout the ward. I have also been a tireless campaigner for road safety measures in the ward, especially on Walter Nash Road and Goldthorn Road. I will continue to lobby the County Council for a school crossing and traffic calming measures in these areas. I am heavily involved in the local community, sitting on both the Pathfinder and the Oldington and Foley Park Governing Boards. I sit on the PACT panel and deal with many issues affecting residents. I also regularly attend the numerous Wyre Forest Community Housing Tenants meetings.  more...

WRIBBENHALL

ALEXANDER HARVEY (Liberal): Like all his Liberal candidate colleagues Alex, who works for a national chain of opticians is committed to the Liberal pledge for Wyre Forest. Liberal Councillors will: support the move to a single site headquarters which will save you £750,000 per year, support a new depot site but only if it is shared with The Housing Company and isnot at the bottom of Broad Street, fight for improved street cleaning, campaign for efficient kerbside recycling which takes all our recyclables, insist on more action to deal with anti-social behaviour, fight for improved leisure facilities in all parts of the district, work with community groups to improve our area, insist that action is taken against known drug dealers, campaign for improved bus service, fight for improvements at Kidderminster Railway Station, work closely with our PACT partners to improve community safet, demand that the County Council improves the grass verges on local estates, insist that the council listens to you and gives you real value for money.  more...

WRIBBENHALL

PAUL GITTINS (Labour): Having lived in Bewdley all my life I care passionately about our town. I am the vice chairman of the Carnival Association, the RBL Service Committee and an executive of the Civic Society. I was a retained firefighter for 35 years, 24 of those as officer in charge. I am a volunteer community first responder and received an award for attending the most incidents in Worcestershire. I have been a Town Councillor for 14 years and served as Mayor in 1999-2000. I am the council's representative on the PACT committee, the Environment group and chairman of the war memorial advisory group. I am available by phone and e-mail and hold regular surgeries. I welcome the opportunity of working with other councillors to ensure the wishes of the residents of Wribbenhall are acted upon to ensure that our town remains a safe and pleasant place.  more...

WRIBBENHALL

LIZ DAVIES (Independent Health Concern): As an Independent Health Concern Councillor, resident in Wribbenhall I concentrate on local needs and issues. If elected to the district council this policy will continue. Some of the major issues I will be concentrating on are: making Stourport Road safer for children going to school, improving services for the elderly, the ongoing problem of anti-social behaviour and wanton destruction of play areas, the upgrading of Wribbenhall Parish room, as a facility for the community, ensuring that Bewdley/Wribbenhall priorities get an improved deal from the district council. Having served as a Town, District and County Councillor has provided experience which allied to my professional career will produce a hard working vocal local councillor. As a Wribbenhall resident your problems are also my problems, we can solve them together.  more...

WRIBBENHALL

ARTHUR BUCKLEY (Conservative): I am 59, married with three grown up children. My wife Beryl and I have lived in this area for 40 years and I have always been interested in local issues that affect the area. I enjoy walking, especially in the Wyre Forest. After leaving school, I decided to become a butcher and worked in all aspects of the trade. Twenty years ago, I set-up my own business and had shops in Kidderminster and Wolverhampton. I finally sold my last shop eight years ago, to retire and allow me to spend more time with my family. I sit on the Board of Governors of Bewdley Primary School and Blakebrook Special School. I feel that now I am fully retired I have more time to commit and put my energies into supporting my local community. If elected in May I would be an active Councillor and pursue the interests of the local community.  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

ADRIAN SEWELL (Labour): Adrian Sewell is married with two children and has been a member of the Labour Party since 1977. Adrian has campaigned on many issues during that time. He is vastly experienced in local and community matters, serving as a Shadow board member with the award winning Wyre Forrest Community Housing Company. He has served as a school governor for five schools since 1978 and has represented Aggborough and Spennells as a District Councillor. Adrian feels that Aggborough and Spennells has suffered as a result of single issue politics and is determined to move the agenda back into the areas that the council can influence. Adrian says: "People want a person representing them who is going to improve our local environment and community and not just focus on one issue. I am determined to tackle the many other problems that matter to people."  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

ADRIAN SEWELL (Labour): Adrian Sewell is married with two children and has been a member of the Labour Party since 1977. Adrian has campaigned on many issues during that time. He is vastly experienced in local and community matters, serving as a Shadow board member with the award winning Wyre Forrest Community Housing Company. He has served as a school governor for five schools since 1978 and has represented Aggborough and Spennells as a District Councillor. Adrian feels that Aggborough and Spennells has suffered as a result of single issue politics and is determined to move the agenda back into the areas that the council can influence. Adrian says: "People want a person representing them who is going to improve our local environment and community and not just focus on one issue. I am determined to tackle the many other problems that matter to people."  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

ADRIAN SEWELL (Labour): Adrian Sewell is married with two children and has been a member of the Labour Party since 1977. Adrian has campaigned on many issues during that time. He is vastly experienced in local and community matters, serving as a Shadow board member with the award winning Wyre Forrest Community Housing Company. He has served as a school governor for five schools since 1978 and has represented Aggborough and Spennells as a District Councillor. Adrian feels that Aggborough and Spennells has suffered as a result of single issue politics and is determined to move the agenda back into the areas that the council can influence. Adrian says: "People want a person representing them who is going to improve our local environment and community and not just focus on one issue. I am determined to tackle the many other problems that matter to people."  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

CHRIS ROGERS (Conservative): I am Chris Rogers. I am about forty years over twenty one and was educated in a Secondary Modern School which I left at the age of fourteen to get a proper education as an apprentice turner and fitter. I have lived in Wyre Forest for twenty years with my partner Annie where I now work as an IT manager. I am originally from Kent, a most beautiful county that Worcestershire closely resembles. My passions are my horses and the countryside. I have a keen interest in local community and all those things that allow it function as it should.  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

CHRIS ROGERS (Conservative): I am Chris Rogers. I am about forty years over twenty one and was educated in a Secondary Modern School which I left at the age of fourteen to get a proper education as an apprentice turner and fitter. I have lived in Wyre Forest for twenty years with my partner Annie where I now work as an IT manager. I am originally from Kent, a most beautiful county that Worcestershire closely resembles. My passions are my horses and the countryside. I have a keen interest in local community and all those things that allow it function as it should.  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

CHRIS ROGERS (Conservative): I am Chris Rogers. I am about forty years over twenty one and was educated in a Secondary Modern School which I left at the age of fourteen to get a proper education as an apprentice turner and fitter. I have lived in Wyre Forest for twenty years with my partner Annie where I now work as an IT manager. I am originally from Kent, a most beautiful county that Worcestershire closely resembles. My passions are my horses and the countryside. I have a keen interest in local community and all those things that allow it function as it should.  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

KEN HENDERSON (Independent Health Concern): Ken has lived locally all his life and is employed in the carpet industry. He has a strong commitment to local issues and wants to be able to serve the community in a more positive way. He says: "Becoming involved with Dr Richard Taylor, MP and Independent Health Concern has been an eye opener for me. The change from traditional party politics is a breath of fresh air. I feel my views and opinions are listened to, unlike the major parties where you follow national policies - or else.' We need to work to improve the environment, roads, local street safety and drive forward regeneration and development in Kidderminster town centre - all issues in which I would love to be involved. I feel I have the chance to promote change and make things happen and I want to be able to do that for the benefit of the residents of Aggborough & Spennells."  more...

AGGBOROUGH/SPENNELLS

HELEN DYKE (Liberal Democrat): Helen Dyke has lived in the Aggborough and Spennells Ward for over 27 years and feels that local knowledge helps her provide the best all round service to the residents that she represents. Working with husband, Councillor Peter Dyke she writes and delivers editions of the Liberal Democrat FOCUS that keep residents informed and give them the opportunity to express worries, concerns and ideas for the area. She knows that problems such as litter, anti social behaviour, graffiti and crime can greatly affect people's quality of life and works with residents to find solutions where possible. At the moment she is working with a multi agency group to tackle anti - social behaviour at the shops and Community Centre on Spennells, also with groups of residents with noise pollution problems and battling with the County Council to ensure residents of Aggborough get the 106 planning monies promised them for a simplified traffic calming scheme before time runs out. Helen hopes that with her record of hard work in Aggborough and Spennells residents will re-elect her on May 1st.  more...

Music

Dean ready to Walk the Line

THE Palace Theatre in Redditch is getting ready to experience a unique take on the life of the man in black, country legend Johnny Cash, when Roger Dean - The Johnny Cash Story hits the stage on Friday (7.30pm).  more...

Joining forces for the magnificent Requiem

BROMSGROVE Choral Society will be joining forces with the Midland Camerata to perform the magnificent Requiem by Maurice Durufle at South Bromsgrove High School on Saturday (7.30pm).  more...

Show off your singing talents

TALENTED singers are being sought to show off their skills in a contest where a top trophy is up for grabs.  more...

Show off your singing talents

TALENTED singers are being sought to show off their skills in a contest where a top trophy is up for grabs.  more...

Nature Notes

World heritage talk

The Friends of the Leasowes will meet on Wednesday April 23 at Leasowes School, Kent Road, Halesowen, at 7pm.  more...

News

Follow Worcestershire at Warwickshire

WORCESTER News cricket writer Michael Reeves is bringing live reports from Edgbaston today as Worcestershire open their LVCC Division Two campaign at Warwickshire.  more...

Collins to lead 'A' team

ENGLAND Sevens star James Collins will captain Worcester Warriors when they face Sale Sharks in the final Guinness 'A' League fixture of the season at Sixways Stadium tonight (7.30pm).  more...

Wood tipped as a future international

DIRECTOR of rugby Mike Ruddock has tipped Tom Wood for international stardom after the young back-rower agreed a new two-year contract extension with the Warriors.  more...

‘We won’t throw in the towel’

ROVERS caretaker boss Duane Darby has refused to throw in the towel on his side's battle for British Gas Business Premier Division survival, but described their situation as "horrible".  more...

Victory on Saturday will see Robins crowned champions

VICTORY over the side with the worst current record in Division One Midlands of the Southern League will guarantee Evesham United the league title, writes Mervyn Collins.  more...

Harriers tipped to keep up good away form

Mark Yates’ delight at his side’s form must be tinged with a little frustration; the Harriers boss surely well aware that a play-off push would have been on the cards if Kidderminster had started performing as they are now, a little earlier in the campaign.  more...

Students savour Aggborough action

FIVE lucky pupils from Stourminster Special School got their first taste of live football thanks to kind-hearted fans at Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday.  more...

Manager's delight at captain's new contract

MANAGER Mark Yates believes the securing of defender Mark Creighton to Kidderminster Harriers until 2010 is a sign that the club means business in the Blue Square Premier.  more...

Reds come back to win trophy

Worcestershire Senior Cup Final Second Leg - Worcester City 0 Redditch United 2 (Aggregate score Worcester 1 Redditch 2)  more...

Carl is staying

COACH Carl Heggs has pledged his future to Redditch United after turning down an offer from promoted Kettering Town.  more...

Reader'S Pictures

BACK TO SCHOOL

Gorse Hill school pupils in 1964. Top, left to right: John Foxhall, Denis Little, Dave Ingram, Phil Smith, John Rowberry and Alan Green. Bottom row, left to right: Phil Franklin, John Judec, Ivor Biggerstaff, Nigel Webb and David Jones.   more...

Reports

Ton-up Moore to the rescue

WORCESTERSHIRE'S bowlers got the County back in the match at Edgbaston after they were bowled out for 249.  more...

Ton-up Moore to the rescue

WORCESTERSHIRE'S bowlers got the County back in the match at Edgbaston after they were bowled out for 249.  more...

In need of a miracle

Cirencester 2
Rovers 1  more...

Harriers’ momentum hit hard by Histon fight back

Harriers 1
Histon 1

  more...

Harriers’ momentum hit hard by Histon fight back

Harriers 1
Histon 1

  more...

Harriers’ momentum hit hard by Histon fight back

Harriers 1
Histon 1

  more...

Harriers’ momentum hit hard by Histon fight back

Harriers 1
Histon 1

  more...

Reviews

Dark glimpse of history

Review – Single Spies at the Festival Theatre, Malvern, until Saturday.  more...

Richard Taylor'S Weekly Column

April 17, 2008

I WAS able to follow closely behind the Duke of Gloucester on his visit to Oldington and Foley Park and Broadwaters last week.  more...

Round-Up

Cup final night

MIDLAND Floodlit Youth League rivals Alvechurch and Bewdley Town contest the Worcestershire FA Mid-week Under 18s Cup final at Stourport Swifts tonight (7.30).  more...

League is set to be close

THE William Hill Worcester Billiards League looks like going to the wire.  more...

St Stephen’s ‘C’ secure Division Three

ST Stephen's C' have won the SEC Solutions Worcester League Division Three title with two matches to spare.  more...

League defeat

WORCESTER took on Dyffryn, from the Vale of Glamorgan, in the Golf Croquet League at Norton.  more...

National fifth

WORCESTER Bridge Club participated in the EBU Spring Simultaneous Pairs.  more...

Free coaching

OMBERSLEY Golf Club are holding free coaching taster sessions.  more...

Winning finish

STOURPORT Hockey Club Women's Firsts finished their fine season with a 5-3 win over Lansdowne after lending their opponents several players.  more...

Winds fended off by Rentch

A STRONG wind caused problems for a large field in Worcester Golf and Country Club's April medal at Boughton Park.  more...

Captains start off with high hopes

BRANSFORD Golf Club's new captains are looking forward to a successful year.  more...

James impresses with split decision

WORCESTER Amateur Boxing Club fighters were in action at a tournament in Shrewsbury.  more...

Wish is true due to Genie

GENIE Ward scored twice as Worcester City Women recorded a deserved 3-1 victory against arch-rivals Hereford Phoenix.  more...

Bailey woe for Fields

WESTFIELDS were beaten 3-2 at Racing Club Warwick in an end-to-end Midland Alliance thriller at allpay.park.  more...

Prices are frozen by Harriers

SEASON ticket and match-day admission prices at Kidderminster Harriers will be frozen for a fourth successive season during 2008/09.  more...

Wish is true due to Genie

GENIE Ward scored twice as Worcester City Women recorded a deserved 3-1 victory against arch-rivals Hereford Phoenix.  more...

Wish is true due to Genie

GENIE Ward scored twice as Worcester City Women recorded a deserved 3-1 victory against arch-rivals Hereford Phoenix.  more...

Ashraful contract has to be torn

ON-GOING uncertainty around Bangladesh's international fixtures has meant that Evesham have been forced to cancel their contract with Mohamad Ashraful for the 2008 season.  more...

Ashraful contract has to be torn

ON-GOING uncertainty around Bangladesh's international fixtures has meant that Evesham have been forced to cancel their contract with Mohamad Ashraful for the 2008 season.  more...

Ashraful contract has to be torn

ON-GOING uncertainty around Bangladesh's international fixtures has meant that Evesham have been forced to cancel their contract with Mohamad Ashraful for the 2008 season.  more...

Motor mayhem!

NINETY competitors took part in Grimley Raceway's second meeting of the season.  more...

Jenkins desperate to rekindle play-off hopes

TERRY Jenkins needs to conjure a win tomorrow night to avoid falling further adrift from the Whyte and Mackay Premier League Darts play-offs.  more...

PACT meetings

TOWNSFOLK are being invited to three forthcoming Bromsgrove Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meetings. On Monday, Stoke Prior PACT will be held at Stoke Prior village hall, in Hanbury Road, where discussions will take place on youths gathering in the alleyways, and dog fouling, in Stoke Heath. Whitford's PACT, discussing priorities including speeding and criminal damage in Rock Hill, will meet on Thursday, April 24, at 7pm, at Millfields First School, Swift Close. Also on Thursday, April 24, at 8pm is Cofton Hackett's PACT at Cofton Hackett village hall. Updates at this meeting will be heard on overgrown hedges and verges in Groveley Lane and better gritting in the village. For more information on PACT, visit West Mercia Constabulary's website on www.westmercia.police.uk  more...

Council surgery

SLIDESLOW ward residents will have an opportunity on Saturday, April 19, to speak to their councillors, Caroline Spencer and Diane Campbell, on any problems or concerns they have. The special surgery will be held at St Godwald's church hall, Finstall Road, Aston Fields, from 10am to 12noon and all are welcome.  more...

Gypsy couple’s appeal go-ahead

A gypsy couple have won the right to take their fight to live in a caravan on a site at Upton Warren to the Court of Appeal.  more...

Packed with news

THE latest issue of the district council magazine is set to be delivered to Bromsgrove residents.  more...

Town stalwart dies

JOHN Pugh, a man whose life was bound up with the business and cultural life of Bromsgrove for many years, has died a few weeks short of his 75th birthday.  more...

Sailers get set for open event

THIS Saturday sees the Grand Prix Laser Class Open meeting at Barnt Green Sailing Club.  more...

Sailers get set for open event

THIS Saturday sees the Grand Prix Laser Class Open meeting at Barnt Green Sailing Club.  more...

Arrows edged out

TABLE TENNIS: The closest game in Division One of the Bromsgrove and Redditch League last week was between Astwood Bank and Bentley Arrows A' with Bank just getting home 6-4 when they won the doubles.  more...

Mixed results for Mead

IT was a mixed weekend for Bromsgrove's Scott Mead in the latest rounds of the NG Road Racing series at Brands Hatch.  more...

Spa club makes a splash

DROITWICH Dolphins Swimming Club made a splash when they won the first round of the Nuneaton and District Junior Swimming League.  more...

Irilut heads strong field

THE final point-to-point classic of the season takes place at Chaddesley Corbett near Bromsgrove on Saturday where 26 horses are entered for the prestigious Lady Dudley Cup.  more...

Two out of two for slick Strutt

ALEX Strutt produced a mature display to earn a unanimous points victor