Archive

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Coming soon.....

The latest coverage of Redditch United celebrating clinching the Dr Martens Western title.

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Stopped in tracks

FRUSTRATED Chaddesley Corbett had to settle for nine points as they chased a modest Stourbridge total in Worcestershire League Division One. The rain prevented Chaddesley catching their opponents' 132 all out which included a half-century from A Hussain

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Rain saves town batsmen

STOURPORT were struggling with the bat when the heavens opened and stopped play in their Division Two clash. They entertained Romsley and Hunnington at Walshes Meadow on Saturday and asked the visitors to bat after winning the toss. Stourport restricted

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Chainwire denied against favourites

CHAINWIRE'S efforts to beat Division Five favourites Highley were thwarted by the wet weather. Saturday's match was abandoned with Chainwire gaining nine points and Highley seven. Chainwire won the toss and put Highley in to bat but their innings was

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Snarling spaniel savaged workman

A SNARLING dog left puncture wounds in a workmen's leg after attacking him in a Worcester street, a court has heard. Mark Barnes, of East Street, Arboretum, is likely to have a controlling order imposed forcing him to look after his springer spaniel following

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Policeman failed to act over identity of driver

A POLICEMAN has been found guilty of failing to supply information about a car caught speeding in Worcester. Christopher Ash, a Detective Constable at West Mercia CID, was handed three penalty points on his driving licence and ordered to pay a £300 fine

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Worcestershire League games washed out

COOKLEY'S games with Worcester Nomads also bit the dust in Division Two, giving an automatic five points for each side. In Division Five, the fixtures between Knighton-on-Teme and Brintons, Stone and Belbroughton thirds and West Malvern and Cutnall Green

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Petition is a huge success for us

MORE than 1.000 residents have added their signatures to the Evening News' petition demanding the Prime Minister's action to save eight planned GP surgeries. We reported two weeks ago that we had received 550 signatures from anxious readers after launching

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Homes hit in St John's blackout

ONE thousand households suffered a blackout last night and woke up to flashing alarm clocks and video machines. The power cut, in St John's Worcester, happened at about 11.50pm, when most people were in bed. It lasted just under an hour for most of those

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Storms halt Wednesday league plans

THE heavy rain and unfit pitches put paid to all chance of results in the Stainweld Cricket League Wednesday matches. All the matches were abandoned and teams were awarded two points each. In the Sunday Premier Division, Worths enjoyed a 101-run victory

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Flower power pays off

YOUNGSTERS from Cutnall Green Primary School, near Droitwich, read poetry and sold daffodils to raise money for charity. They raised a total of £38 for Marie Curie Cancer Care's Daffodils Day. "It may not seem like a lot of money, but we are a very small

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Cricket fixtures

SATURDAY (1.30pm unless stated) BIRMINGHAM LEAGUE DIVISION ONE KVCC v Dorridge (1pm) SECONDS PREMIER DIVISION Old Hill v KVCC WORCESTERSHIRE LEAGUE DIVISION ONE CHADDESLEY v Eastnor (2nds away) Stourbridge v BEWDLEY (2nds home) DIVISION TWO COOKLEY v

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Seafarers' stalwart scoops star award

A SECOND World War veteran from Worcester, who has played a key role in promoting the Merchant Navy, has received an award for his services. Dickie Valentine, of Kenwood Road, Tolladine, was presented with a small item of nautical equipment by the Royal

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Millions set aside for ME sufferers

HEALTH bosses in Worcestershire are bidding for a slice of £8.5m Government cash to boost services for sufferers of debilitating conditions. Three Primary Care Trusts in Worcestershire and Hereford have submitted a joint bid to the Department of Health

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It just grows and grows

MORE than 90,000 green-fingered enthusiasts are expected at Malvern's Three Counties Showground over the next three days for the Spring Gardening Show. Now officially Britain's first major horticultural event of the season, this year's show has a royal

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Nightmare of tent inferno

Mum hails her son a hero in fire rescue A TEENAGE girl trapped in a blazing tent is so traumatised by her ordeal she becomes "hysterical" when confronted with anything to do with fire. Jess Stevens, 15, cannot cope with any reminder of the shocking fire

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Have your cute canines snapped

DELIGHTFUL dogs which are naturals in front of a camera are being invited to a photo shoot in Worcester. Superstore chain Pets at Home are inviting people to take their cute canine to its Blackpole Road branch for a free photo session this weekend. Around

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Bus 'lifeline' under threat

THE last bus between Kidderminster and Birmingham is facing severe cutbacks - causing outrage among passengers already hit by several cuts to district services. The 192 between Kidderminster and Birmingham, via Blakedown, could be heavily reduced from

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Successful students

TRAINEE builders from a Worcester college enjoyed an awards ceremony to celebrate the success of their vocational course. The Student Builder Project, funded by the Learning Skills Council, gives 12 pupils from Worcestershire the opportunity to gain on-site

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Colours to shout about

A FEAST of colour will be stimulating the visual senses in an art exhibition at a Worcestershire gallery. Cacophony of Colour by Lyn Clarke is being held at the Bevere Gallery and Picture Framers. The artist was born in England, then moved to East Africa

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Pool finals to decide on a new champion

A POOL championship finals night is being held at Worcester YMCA on Friday. Fifty-two players, both residents and staff from the YMCA, originally signed up to take part in the competition six months ago. Now the final eight players are set to battle it

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Babyshambles Wrekin View, Telford

THIS country pub near Telford was "the" place to be for any self-respecting indie fan last Thursday night when Babyshambles came to the Midlands for a hastily arranged and very secret gig. If you don't know, Babyshambles is the side-project of Libertines

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County health chiefs slammed over debts

COUNTY health chiefs have been "named and shamed" in a damning report which lists the nation's worst overspending hospital trusts. The organisation which runs Kidderminster Hospital is among six out of 607 health trusts to have ran up a year-on-year deficit

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Concern at care provision

UNCERTAINTY over the future wellbeing of older people living in the Tenbury area, has become more acute following a decision to close the nursing wing unit at Haresbrooke Care Centre. "This is very disturbing and upsetting news which The Advertiser knew

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All geared up to celebrate Tenbury

CELEBRATING Tenbury is the theme of this year's town carnival and the committee is busy finalising the day's details. A free brochure will be available in shops from May and features a running programme of events. These include several displays, including

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Division celebrates its first year

IT has been an exciting year for the police, says a top cop. Many achievements have already been made in the north Worcestershire policing division, with more to come, promises divisional commander, Chief Superintendent Mark Howard. The new division,

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With a little help from your PALS

PATIENTS and relatives have a new NHS pal, in the form of a confidential help, advice and support service, which is being relaunched this month. PALS will be led by Sue Home (right), the patient and liaison service development manager for the South Worcestershire

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Recycling is a hit with caring folk

THE people of Wyre Forest have received a big pat on the back for their efforts after the area managed to recycle 11 per cent of all its domestic waste. The recycling figure means that Wyre Forest District Council has met the Government recycling target

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Anger at internet hold-up

CAMPAIGNERS fighting to gain high-speed internet access for Wolverley and Cookley fear a change of plan by BT could delay the arrival of the service by up to a year. The telecommunications giant was poised to hook up the two villages when 500 computer

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Desperate for helpers

VISUALLY impaired people from Wyre Forest are having to wait up to 18 months for crucial home help because of a shortage of volunteers, charity workers have said. The Worcestershire Association for the Blind is "desperate" for volunteers to assist blind

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Insect quest comes to painful end as talented tiger beetle bites back

APRIL has certainly been a month of contrasts. The beginning of the month was cool and spring-like, the end of the month was wet and cool, while the middle of the month was hot and summery. It was on one of those sweltering summer-like days that I began

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Eckington

A COLLABORATION CELEBRATION: Eckington under Fives with Babes and Toddlers and the New Rec Centre Fundraisers present a James Bond Casino night on Saturday, May 15, at 8pm in the Bell, Eckington. Proceeds in aid of the New Recreation Centre Build Fund

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Ilmington

ST MARY'S CHURCH: The annual meeting presided over by the Vicar, Canon Bill Merrington, was preceded by the annual vestry meeting at which Peter Coupland and Angus Chambers were re-elected as churchwardens. The roll now stood at 41 members - a slight

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Mickleton

FINAL ACTS: A Jubilee and Millennium committee meeting was held at Cheryl's House attended by eight people. It was time now to wind up its affairs and with the money left over, it was agreed to buy two troughs for flowers, which will be planted out and

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Shooting stars' soaring success

THE Worcestershire Gun Dog Society's working tests for Spaniels and Retrievers proved a big success. "Competition over both days was very keen," said Russell Bindoff, one of the organisers. Results: Spaniel Working Tests, Spaniel Novice (Roy Smith Cup

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Ilmington

WEDNESDAY CLUB: Have you ever tried Cotswold Comforter, the soup with a kick? Your opportunity is very close. The club will be holding a fundraising event on May 15 at noon in the village hall - the soup (or a non-alcoholic version for the timid) will

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Italian double

AN Eastern European opera company is coming to Malvern with a double bill of Italian greats. The Romanian State Opera Brasov will be performing Rossini's La Cenerentola and Doni-zetti's Don Pasquale in the original Italian and with a 35-piece orchestra

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Darren's role at top stables

HORSE RACING: A Stourport teenager is emerging as one to watch in horse racing after showing potential in his jockey training. Darren Jones, 17, has continued his apprenticeship with Herefordshire-based champion trainer Venetia Williams after catching

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Appearances and Goals 2003/04

Danny Allen Apps 2, gls 0; Linton Bailey 30, 1; Craig Ball 20 (4), 1; Damien Beattie 13, 0; James Brown (1), 0; Marc Burrow 42 (1), 4; Dave Busst 1, 0; Leon Canning 1 (3), 0; Junior Christie (6), 0; Tim Clarke 28, 0; Simon Fitter (1), 0; Sean Flynn 23

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Record entry for Wheatland Hunt

HORSE RACING: The Wheatland Hunt has attracted a record entry of 276 for its point-to-point at Chaddesley Corbett on Saturday. The feature race, the mens' open, has attracted a quality entry which is sure to bring the crowds to the village's roadside

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Midlands best by super Smith

SWIMMING: Speedy swimmer Amy Smith showed her class in the freestyle events at the Midland District Youth Championships. The Midlands is the largest of five national regions and attracts many top swimmers, which makes the districts in Coventry a prestigious

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Green victory is proud time

TENNIS: Bewdley Ladies A have finished runners-up in Herefordshire and Worcestershire League Division One for the third year in a row. The team needed to win their last match to clinch the title but were beaten by a strong Manor Park outfit from Malvern

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Consistent Steve hits top 10 again

CYCLING: Steve Burns gained his third top 10 placing in as many races at the Retford and District Wheelers 10-mile time trial on Saturday. Burns followed up his ninth at the Stourbridge CC event with a similar position in Tuxford when up against 119 other

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Prize in the sun

GOLF: Amateur Phil Green and Wharton Park professional Angus Hoare will be among the Wyre Forest golfers competing in the Lombard Trophy qualifier. Green, who won the Bewdley club's qualifying competition with a nett score of 70, will join Hoare at the

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Joy for Joyce

GOLF: Joyce Kerrigan won the Ladies' April Medal at Bewdley Pines off a 23 handicap with a gross of 87 and 64 nett. In second place was Sue Hine with 87 gross, 20 handicap, 67 nett and Gill Chilton was third with 81-13-68. Ladies' Ryder Cup: J Wallender

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Churches celebrate winning grants

CONGREGATIONS of two Stourport churches are celebrating after winning grants for much-needed work. One of the churches has won £3,000 for work which will include measures to stop youths hanging around in the grounds and intimidating local people. There

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London show from Edwards

JUDO: Kelly Edwards emerged triumphant from the London Junior Open with a gold and silver for Kidderminster's Samurai club. The 13-year-old sailed into the final of the U-36kg weight group and then held for maximum points after effortlessly turning the

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Brintons defy rain to swamp St Johns

BOWLS: The Kidderminster and District Mid-week Bowling League was hit by bad weather with a number of games postponed due to waterlogged greens. But Brintons Ltd A continued their good start to the season with a seven-shot victory at St Johns Tomkinsons

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Man who made tipping 'mistake' is fined £200

A STOURPORT man admitted illegally dumping waste on land which did not have a Waste Management Licence at Kidderminster Magistrates Court. Terence Hipkins, 54, of 24 Pinta Drive, Stourport, pleaded guilty to a charge, brought by the Environment Agency

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No time to Lye down for Teresa

MARTIAL ARTS: Motivated karate veteran Teresa Lye has finally gained some recognition for her efforts by being awarded the national shield for 2004. The Kidderminster 63-year-old received the top accolade at the National Shukokai Championships from world

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Men's cup final

VOLLEYBALL: Cleobury Mortimer's men have had a busy spell recently with three games in 10 days as the season draws to a close. They struggled to beat already relegated Tamworth seconds 3-2 with an under-strength squad in the West Midlands League. But

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Blues make point

NETBALL: Lower-ranked teams were given a chance to challenge for silverware in Cleobury Mortimer Sports Centre's Handicap Knockout Cup. Lacon Blues held a 12-goal start over league runners-up Kingfisher and managed to clinch a 27-22 victory. Natwest comfortably

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Franche clinch it

SNOOKER: Franche A sealed the Kidderminster Wednesday League championship with a game to spare when they beat lowly Wribbenhall A 5-0. Snooks A are sure of second after a 3-2 win over St John's E. Other results: Pockets A 3, Wribbenhall B 2; St Ambrose

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Soldiering on

CHESS: Kidderminster Knights progressed to the Worcester and District League Cup quarter-finals with a 4-0 victory at St James, Longbridge. Full results (Kidderminster first): J Wrench 1, R Collett 0; J Friar 1, D Bott 0; F Pickett 1, S Johnson 0; G Link

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SEAN PARRISH - Midfield. 14/3/72. 5ft 10ins. Squad number 14.

Parrish has enjoyed three promotions before from Division Three, twice with Northampton Town and once with Chesterfield. The competitive left-footed midfielder with an eye for goal turned down a one-year deal with Chesterfield to sign for two years with

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WILLOW MARSH FISHERY

CARP weights continue to improve on the Dragonfly Pool with the most popular baits at the weekend being meat and corn. Saturday Morning, Whispers Pool, Cottage Spring AC: Cliff Trinder 16lb 9oz, Mick Bourne 13-10, Mick Stokes 13-5. Sunday Morning, Dragonfly

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LEE JENKINS - Midfield, right-back. 28/6/79. 5ft 9ins. Squad number 8.

Jenkins moved on to pastures new in December 2003 on an 18-month contract after 181 games over more than seven seasons at Swansea. The midfielder or full-back, Jan Molby's first permanent signing in his second spell in charge at Harriers, is a hard-working

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MARK YATES - Midfield, centre-half. 24/1/70. 5ft 11ins. Squad number 23.

Director of football Jan Molby caused a stir by recruiting former captain Yates to help in Harriers' battle against relegation in February 2004. The midfield anchorman, whose versatility also makes him useful as a defender or attacker, spent four seasons

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SHATTERFORD LAKES

KIDDERMINSTER'S Antony Warrall used a buzzer on the Stella Lake and caught 13 rainbow trout to 2lb 4oz. The fishery trout record was broken by a Quarry Bank angler who landed a 17lb 8oz rainbow on the Masters. A couple of days later, he returned to the

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SIMON BROWN - Midfielder, forward 18/9/83. Squad number 24.

Eight goals in West Brom's reserve team caught the eye of Harriers director of football Jan Molby who signed Brown on a month's loan in March 2004. The right-sided midfielder or attacker quickly fitted into Molby's preferred 4-3-3 formation, scoring in

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LYTTELTON AA VETERANS

ROUND One, Summer League: Derek Davis 78-11, Ian Tetsall 34-7, Arthur Andrews 26-7, Mick Millinchip 21-6. Round two is at Woodlands View on Wednesday with a 9am draw and fishing from 10am until 3pm. Members are asked to take two keepnets.

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BLACK BOY AC

STRAWBERRY Pool: P Walker 13-14, B Hudson 8-3, B Roberts 7-2. The next match, on Sunday, May 16, will be at Reaside Pool, meeting at Dog Lane car park at 7.15am for an 8am draw.

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GILT EDGE AC

JOHN Stinton Cup, fished at Sugar Pool, Far Forest: Paul Garbett 8-14, Richard Broadhurst 7-12, John Eggington 7-7-8. The next contest will be on the canal at Bonemill and more details are available from the secretary on 01562 824651.

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GOLDEN MAGGOT AC

MARK Johnson took the lead in the aggregate cup with his second win of the season. Johnson took carp to 5lb with corn and meat at 13 metres on the Pheasant Pool at Elmbridge Fishery on Sunday. Alan Saunders was second. Result: Johnson 37-1, Saunders 36

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OLD BEAR AC

JUNIORS result, Stackpool: A Buxton 6-14, M Shoring 3-4, C McPherson 1-11. Three Crowns Pool: Buxton 17-0, M Oakes 10-13, A Swalwell 6-6. Seniors result, Stackpool: C Price 29-11, S Boulter 17-0, G Birch 9-5. There is a seniors club match on the Stackpool

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Goods seized

SPORT shop owners have been asked to examine goods seized by police in Kidderminster to see if they come from their stores. A collection of five Kappa jogging tops and bottoms with Wicked Deal labels were recovered by police on Saturday. PC Andy Bradley

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May day misery is torture for Town

AN ERRANT back pass from Paul Longthorne handed Willenhall a second half winner that would appear to have consigned Town to another season in the humdrum arena that is the Travel Factory Alliance. It wasn't just that one mistake that ultimately cost Stratford

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Jermaine at the double

Bedworth Utd 1, Evesham Utd 2 JERMAINE Clarke did his hopes of being part of United's plans for next season a heap of good with last Saturday's brace that ended United's topsy-turvy campaign on a winning note. The striker's fourth goal in the last two

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Pair register trophy wins in climax

NEEDLEMAKERS and Campden Town have both picked up silverware during the past ten days of action in the Stratford Alliance. The Journal Premier Division champions overcame Mettis Aerospace 3-1 to win last week's Edwards of Stratford Cup final, while Town

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Yobs making life a misery

AS pensioners, my husband an I have to rely on the bus service on Birchen Coppice estate. Last year we were given a nice bus shelter to keep us from the wind and rain, while waiting for a bus. A few weeks ago some mindless teenagers shattered one of the

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Meeting on Sunday

THE next meeting of the Mercian Festival Junior Football League will take place on Sunday May at the Bell Inn, St Johns, Worcester starting from 8pm. All clubs should attend and application forms for next season will be available for them to collect.

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Briars trophy test

KIDDERMINSTER and District League Briars Phoenix face a tough challenge in the Worcester Royal Infirmary Challenge Cup final tonight. They travel to Valley Stadium, Redditch, to face Worcester leaguers Nunnery Wood Sports. Apart from the cup-tied Jerome

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Back to the 70s for Vale Carnival

VALE organisations are being urged to don their 70s gear aboard their own float in the Evesham carnival and raise money for a charity of their choice. Evesham Round Table's new chairman and president are hoping more groups will come forward in the run

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Anger over duck death

I FELT compelled to write to you as I am so upset over an experience with the RSPCA. Recently I saw a severely injured duck on the pond at Springfield in Kidderminster. I telephoned the RSPCA, who promised to send the inspector out to it. I made a further

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Commuters diverted as road work begins

MOTORISTS driving to and from Evesham along Worcester Road will be diverted for a month as work on the Chadbury to Twyford road continues. From Monday a stretch of the road will be closed and traffic diverted along the Squires, which will have traffic

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Ravens formed

CHADDESLEY Corbett are to run an U-9s side next season and need more players. Coaching for Chaddesley Ravens will be on Saturday mornings from 10am at Longmore. For more details, call Martin Westcott on 07791 554024, Eddie Lavelle on 07717 738291, Tracy

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Villagers in mourning for dance-tragedy teenager

A POPULAR teenager from Pinvin collapsed and died after getting up to dance to her favourite song. Seventeen-year-old Claire Stones was enjoying a night out with friends in the early hours of last Wednesday when she collapsed. Although Claire had a heart

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Spare a thought for Harriers neighbours

I HOPE that Kidderminster Harriers chairman Colin Youngjohns and other residents near Sutton Park Road are successful in attempting to save the mature trees in that area from destruction by David Wilson Homes Ltd, who plan to build apartment blocks there

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No comment on physio cuts claim

HEALTH authority bosses have declined to comment on proposed reductions in the physiotherapy department at Evesham Community Hospital. A briefing paper under the names of Dr Tim Davies, director of public health, and June Patel, director of clinical services

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Festival ahead

WORCESTERSHIRE FA's second annual Disability Football Festival has been set for Thursday, May 27. University College, Worcester, is the venue from 10.30am until 2pm with special schools from across the West Midlands invited. There will be contests for

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Fashion star Nicole is ready to run the race again

A VALE woman who completed last year's Race for Life half way through chemotherapy treatment has vowed to do it all again. Nicole Touye, aged 41 from Evesham was diagnosed with breast cancer in January last year and underwent successful treatment. Now

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Brigade warns that lives could be at risk

HEREFORD and Worcester Fire Brigade has warned that lives and jobs could be under threat if the government goes ahead with 'capping' the service's budget. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has challenged the brigade's 29.4 per cent rise, the highest

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Drunk fired gun at house in noise feud

A drunken Evesham man fired an airgun at a neighbour's door after complaining about noise which had upset his girlfriend, Worcester Crown Court heard. Edward Fray went down to the flat beneath his own last Christmas Eve and asked the occupants to turn

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Mystery calls spark new hoaxers warning

ELDERLY residents in the Vale should be vigilant when approached by people offering property security advice after three suspicious incidents. Police said three residents in Broadway, Bishampton and Throckmorton were suspicious of telephone calls they

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Jermaine at the double

Bedworth Utd 1, Evesham Utd 2 JERMAINE Clarke did his hopes of being part of United's plans for next season a heap of good with last Saturday's brace that ended United's topsy-turvy campaign on a winning note. The striker's fourth goal in the last two

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Worcs suffer double blow

WORCESTERSHIRE soon lost Stephen Peters and Andy Bichel when they launched there Cheltenham & Gloucester Trophy second round clash against Herefordshire at New Road today. Peters was snapped up at second slip by former England Test star Martin Mc-Cague

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New deal for Bulls duo

HEREFORD United have rewarded two of their young stars with new contracts for next season. Midfielder Rob Purdie and striker Danny Carey-Bertram have both agreed new one-year deals. Manager Graham Turner expects to announce decisions on the rest of his

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Sixways boost

CECIL Duckworth has thanked the board of England Rugby Limited for their 'positive' approach to Wor-cester's Premiership bid. The Sixways chairman re-ceived the green light for their Premiership entry last week and confirmation of planning permission

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Regis launches new boys league

SOCCER legend Cyrille Regis has thrown his weight behind the fledgling Midland Junior Premier League. The ex-West Brom and England star was at St George's Lane for its official launch yesterday. Worcester City director Bob Marley is the prime mover behind

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Weather delays Town final bid

MALVERN Town's Worcestershire FA Senior Urn Final against Alvechurch, due to be played at Kidderminster Harriers' Aggborough Stadium last night, was postponed following a late afternoon deluge which flooded the pitch. A new date has still to be arranged

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High-tech crimebusters aid battle against paedophiles

THE chances of detecting and prosecuting paedophiles may have been vastly improved thanks to the pioneering work of two Vale men. Former software salesman Kevin Thomas from Wickhamford and student Andrew Thompson from Breforton took just nine months to

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Cyclists Spring into Road Race action

SEVENTY riders are gearing up for Sunday's Worcester St Johns Cycling Club annual Spring Road Race. Organiser Doug Dring has a full field of riders for the 82-mile event which covers five laps of a circuit based at Inkberrow. Last year's winner Darren

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From the archives

100 Years Ago May 7, 1904 It is regretted that there is not more interest shown in the work of the River Avon Improvement Association which, although its powers are naturally very limited, has carried out a number of improvements, and has done perhaps

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Are you a winner?

* (I) indicates Internet entries. THE winner of the first prize in the Marks and Spencer Competition, a £350 voucher, was D Gwiliam, The Birches, Stourport. A £50 M&S voucher was won by: C Alexandre, Moorgate Road, Bromsgrove (I); A Griffin, Castle

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BEWDLEY AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

The society is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, and members are trying to piece together its history. Anyone who has, or knows someone who might have, memorabilia, old programmes or schedules, or even photographs of old events, is asked to contact

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BROOME WI

Ned Williams was the guest speaker on April 21, with a "behind the scenes" insight into the last 100 years or so of cinematics. In 1896 the cinema was houses in a showman's travelling van and was a health hazard, with highly inflammable and combustible

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CLEOBURY MORTIMER BRIDGE CLUB

The Great Britain Spring Simultaneous Pairs Competition took place in April, when 4,538 players took part in clubs all over the country. Four members of Cleobury played at Tenbury Bridge Club where Steve Clifton, paired for the first time with Gerald

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COOKLEY WI

Reports were given on visits to the Rose Theatre, Kidderminster to see Sailor Beware and to the half-yearly meeting in Malvern. Members attended the resolutions meeting at Fairfield village hall, and will be debating these at a meeting on Monday at Wolverley

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CLASSICAL MUSIC SOCIETY

On April 23, Mary Seaburn presented an evening of recorded music entitled "A Double Celebration", depicting both St George's Day and Shakespeare's birthday. The programme opened in light-heared vein with Stan Freberg's St George and the Dragonet, then

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STOURPORT JUSTICE AND PEACE GROUP

Chief Constable Paul West, of West Mercia Police, gave a talk on "Contemporary Policing" at a recent meeting. Group members will be supporting Christian Aid week, from Sunday until Saturday, May 15. Captain Scott from the Salvation Army, Worcester, will

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Artists unite to create a craft trail for visitors

Picturesque villages on the south side of Bredon Hill house a group of artists, designers and crafts people who have collaborated to launch Bredon Hill Open Studios. As the name implies, they all work from open studios based along a four-mile stretch

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BRITISH SUGARCRAFT GUILD

The Wyre Forest branch will be holding the annual joint meeting at Stourport Community Centre, in the Memorial Park, Lickhill Road, on Thursday, May 13, starting at 7.30pm. Pat Ashby, will demonstrate a variety of procedures, including the uses of unbreakable

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WORCESTERSHIRE AUDIO VISUAL GROUP

Keith Brown, president of the Royal Society Audio Visual Group was the guest speaker at the last spring meeting, which included members of other camera clubs in the audience. Mr Brown talked about his approach to audio visual, and showed some of his international

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MOTHERS UNION DIOCESE OF WORCESTER

The 10th anniversary of the International Year of the Family is being celebrated with a "Family Matters" conference at Spring Grove House, Bewdley, on Wednesday, June 30 from 9.30am until 4pm, extended to 5pm for informal worship and a park tour. Speakers

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Asparagus tips balance of trade for landlord

THE asparagus season is under way in the Vale of Evesham, which means a hectic few weeks for Graham Brown and his staff at the Round of Gras, Badsey. The pub is at the heart of the asparagus-growing area and some years ago its name was changed from the

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Owners comment on ragwort threat

HORSE-owners have been urged to have their say on the latest draft of Defra's code of practice on ragwort. The British Horse Society has asked all horse owners, landowners and other grazing animal owners to obtain a copy of the report and submit their

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28/04/04 - Cup tie

DROITWICH Spa RFC First XV play their traditional end of season Jack Andrews Cup match with Worcester Wanderers at home this Saturday. Kick-off at the Memorial Ground is at 3pm.

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14/04/04 - Final match for Spa

DROITWICH Spa RFC First XV play their final match of the season this Saturday away at Ledbury. Julian Bailey's side are looking to secure fifth place in Midlands Three West (South).

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Park tribute to popular dentist

A MEMORIAL to a Bewdley dentist is to be placed in a town centre park. Money earmarked for improving Jubilee Gardens, in High Street, will include a lasting memorial to Peter Clark, who died last year. The Kinlet resident worked at Bewdley Dental Practice

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Cuddly Skippy snuggles down in 'mum's' pouch

STAFF at West Midland Safari Park have brought a new meaning to the phrase "keeping mum" by creating this makeshift pouch for an abandoned wallaby. Skippy, a rare Albino Bennett's wallaby, was orphaned but has now found a replacement pouch with a small

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11/02/04 - Cup of cheer!

AN estimated 4,000 people braved the elements to view the World Cup as Bromsgrove Rugby Club enjoyed the greatest day in its 132-year history. For four hours last Friday, crowds poured through the gates of Finstall Park to get a glimpse of the William

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21/04/04 - Champions!

MR RELIABLE Matt Birch kicked a last gasp conversion to hand Bromsgrove RFC First XV the Midlands Two (West) championship. Birch slotted over from in front of the posts for an amazing 10-9 victory at Derby after Danny Malin's try three minutes into added

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07/04/04 - Ready for decider

BROMSGROVE RFC First XV have ten days to prepare for a winner takes all Midlands Two (West) title decider. Dean Ball's side travel to Derby on Saturday week for the clash with a one-point lead at the top following Derby's 22-10 defeat at Malvern last

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Bredon

ROGATION SUNDAY: For anyone unable to do the St Richard's sponsored walk on May 15, on May 16 there will be a nine-mile walk to beat the bounds of the parish. Walkers will leave St Giles' church at about 11.30am. There will be opportunities to complete

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6/5/04 - Worcs suffer double blow

WORCESTERSHIRE soon lost Stephen Peters and Andy Bichel when they launched there Cheltenham & Gloucester Trophy second round clash against Herefordshire at New Road today. Peters was snapped up at second slip by former England Test star Martin Mc-Cague

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Stourport Swifts FC - Fixtures and results - 2003/04

Pre-season friendlies Sat July 19 Bromyard (a) 7-1 Ball 3, Robinson, Giddings, A Wright, Wood. Wed July 23 Studley (h) 1-3 Ball Tues July 29 Westfields (h) 1-1 Wood Sat Aug 2 Bilston (a) 6-1 Ball 4, Sayer, Wood Tues Aug 5 Stourbridge (h) 4-1 Robinson

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6/5/04 Hats shows way forward

SKIPPER Wayne Hatswell's consistency makes him a role model for his team-mates, according to Kidderminster Harriers number two Gary Barnett. The rugged 29-year-old centre-half, Ian Britton's final signing before he was sacked, has been a revelation and

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6/5/04 Injured Bennett easing his way back

Harriers' top scorer Dean Bennett is well on his way to making a full return for pre-season after a knee operation. The midfielder or forward, who has seven goals to his name, is out of contract in the summer but will be keen to stay at Aggborough. Bennett

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Derby 9 Bromsgrove 10

Saturday, April 17, 2004 BEING a supporter of Bromsgrove RFC First XV is a nerve-shredding existence. It would appear the team don't believe in doing things the easy way and never know when they're beaten. For the third season running the players have

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Cruel shooter attacks pet Dobby

A PERSHORE family has been left fearing for the safety of their pets after their cat was shot with an airgun. Dobby, an 11-month-old tabby, is now in recovery after being hit between her jawbone and shoulder on Wednesday, April 28. Police are appealing

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Villagers in mourning for dance-tragedy teenager

A POPULAR teenager from Pinvin collapsed and died after getting up to dance to her favourite song. Seventeen-year-old Claire Stones was enjoying a night out with friends in the early hours of last Wednesday when she collapsed. Although Claire had a heart

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It's just too loud

DON'T you just love TV companies who feel you need your television sound upping by 20 decibels to enjoy the adverts (without your permission)? Programme makers who feel your attention span is only 30 seconds therefore not only let you know what is coming

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Val loses brave battle for life

A BRAVE Vale grandmother who featured on the Journal front page after undergoing pioneering heart surgery has died. In March Val Rogerson, aged 65 from Wick shared her miraculous survival story from an operation last August given less than one per cent

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Showing everything with baby in mind

FORMER competitive swimmer Fiona Munt-Whittle was inspired to create Aquatots six years ago after teaching her four babies to brave the water. Discovering that children under six months had a unique reflex which meant they instinctively know when to hold

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Looking for a missing link

A PERSHORE town councillor is calling for people to campaign for a link road from the Keytech technology park on Pershore trading estate to the new Wyre Piddle bypass. Councillor Val Wood fears that until the "missing link" is built in Pershore lorries

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Let's hope this will be end of the matter

AS a family living barely 50 feet away from the proposed football stadium, we are writing to say that we were overjoyed to read that David Hallmark's "passionate" plea to councillors to overturn the Government inspector's recommendations has failed. It

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Mayor's farewell note to PM: 'We need our new hospital'

PERSHORE'S outgoing mayor Richard Hampton has written to Prime Minister Tony Blair urging him to make sure Pershore gets a new cottage hospital as planned. The future of the scheme was thrown into doubt by the withdrawal of funds from a proposed doctor's

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Planning deadline

OBJECTORS and supporters of plans to build a house on land in Childswickham have two weeks left to make their feelings known to the Planning Inspectorate. Graham Reid has appealed against Wychavon District Council's decision to refuse planning permission

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May 6, 2004

I ATTENDED the celebratory mass at the Polish Church in Kidderminster on Sunday and the service, although mostly in Polish, brought home to me forcibly what it really means to Poles to become part of the European Community. Having suffered terribly in

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Woman dies after crash with dustcart

A MOTORIST died after her car was in collision with a refuse lorry in Broadway. The woman's car was heavily damaged on the driver's side shortly after 9am yesterday on Station Road before coming to rest in front of the Station Garage forecourt. Fire crews

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New date for Regatta

FOLLOWING last week's heavy rain, Evesham Row-ing Club was forced to cancel the town's annual Regatta on safety grounds. The decision, taken at noon last Friday, was a great disappointment to the 500 crews that had entered. However, with water more than

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6/5/04 - Sixways boost

CECIL Duckworth has thanked the board of England Rugby Limited for their 'positive' approach to Wor-cester's Premiership bid. The Sixways chairman re-ceived the green light for their Premiership entry last week and confirmation of planning permission

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Pride is new green scheme's secret weapon

THE campaign to crack down on litter in Wyre Forest using wide-ranging measures backed up by the law has been launched with the help of the scheme's secret weapon - the civic pride of local people. Wyre Forest District Council's Pride in Your Area Campaign

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Firefighters in soap drama

FIREFIGHTERS swap smoke and flames for suds and washclothes in their latest fundraising venture this weekend. The Tenbury crew are working at the car wash and turning cars into gleaming mean machines in return for a donation to the Fire Services National

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Cycling Phil sets fast early pace in time-trial league

The latest round of the Ludlow Cycling Club's time-trial league saw a good turnout in fine weather for the 11.4 miles race. The circuit takes in Ludlow by-pass before turning at Ashford and heading back via Sheet Road traffic island for another lap. Climb

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Golf Excellent scores despite the adverse weather

THE ladies section of the Ludlow Golf Club held its first open meeting of the season on April 21. The competition was mixed with each team having four players, two ladies and two gentlemen playing off -handicaps, the best ladies and gents score to count

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Helping hand for harassed families

HELP is at hand for young Vale families who are struggling to cope with the pressures of domestic life. Today the charity Home-Start, which has had an organiser covering the Evesham and Pershore area for nearly three years, will open its own office in

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Stretton warm up for cup with away win

Hopesgate 2 Church Stretton 3 CHURCH Stretton warmed up for their big Shropshire Challenge Cup final with a good performance in their final Shropshire County Premier Division match of the season at Hopesgate. They went behind in the early stages but fought

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Carpet worker launches claim for damages

A KIDDERMINSTER woman is seeking damages of more than £150,000 from Tomkinsons Carpets after a fall at work. Pamela Field, 36, of Doversdale Avenue, launched a High Court claim in London in a writ, just made publicly available. The writ said Ms Field

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Passport no show slip-up

A MUCH - publicised tourism "passport" scheme for attractions in or near Craven Arms failed to materialise on schedule, leaving at least one operator very angry. Leaflets giving money off for each of five attractions and the Shropshire Hills shuttle bus

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Family in citizenship ceremony

A NEPALESE family from Kidderminster are among the first in Worcestershire to attend the Government's new "citizenship ceremony". The family, from the Hoobrook area, will "swear the oath of allegiance to The Queen and pledge loyalty to the United Kingdom

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Bra-vo for fund-raiser

A JUNIOR doctor has gone for "bust" by signing up to complete a marathon - in a brassiere. Sarah Tamplin, of Lodge Cottages, Stourport, will join thousands of other underwear-clad females for the popular Moonwalk event. The walk takes place overnight

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Tears of joy mark as Poland joins EU

ONE of "the most important events in the whole of Polish history" was celebrated in Wyre Forest during the weekend as the country was finally accepted into Europe. Three days of celebration were held at the Polish Ex-Servicemen's Club in Kidderminster

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Police cap next year?

WEST Mercia police are also suffering the wrath of Government spending chiefs. Whitehall has nominated West Mercia Constabulary for capping action in 2005/06 after it increased its council tax demand by 14.9 per cent this year. That followed an 18.1 increase

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Anniversary meeting

THE Mothers' Union is marking the 10th anniversary of the International Year of the Family with a day-long conference at the West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley. The Family Matters Conference event, in June, is being run by the Diocese of Worcester's Mothers

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Warning on Chester Road speed checks

THE next mobile speed camera site has been chosen for Wyre Forest - and the hi-tech devices are also back in action in Blakedown. A mobile unit will pay visits to Chester Road North in Kidderminster once a fortnight as part of a crackdown on speeding

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Couple serve 3-star recipe for cancer aid

A COUPLE with first-hand experience of the trauma caused by cancer are using their culinary skills to raise £6,000 for two cancer charities. Nelson Mansfield, of Westholme Road, Bidford, and girlfriend Hayley Loomes, of Alcester, have pledged to raise

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Protesters bid to save their school

ANGRY parents marched on a "totally inadequate" surgery-style meeting to protest against mooted closures and mergers of Wyre Forest schools. Scores of mums, dads and pupils descended on Kidderminster College on Tuesday to protest at how the meetings were

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Raft race crew to raise cash for plucky Victoria

AS floating fund-raisers prepare to race along the River Severn in the 26th annual raft race, organisers are appealing for more competitors to come on board. One of the teams already signed up for the event on Sunday, May 9, is made up of eight Wyre Forest

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Neighbours in blaze tribute

TWO Kidderminster men who helped to rescue a mother and her three-year-old son from a Kidderminster house fire have been commended for their actions. George Smith and Kevin Shurmer were presented with Society for the Protection of Life certificates at

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Two years of toil comes to fruition

ALMOST two years hard work is coming to fruition for a group of Wyre Forest lacemakers working on a wall hanging for Worcestershire Royal Hospital. Members of Wyre Forest Lacemakers - which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year - spent two months

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Shed blaze

A SHED was destroyed by fire at allotments in Kidderminster. Police are appealing for information about the incident, which happened at Franche Allotments in Wilton Avenue, between midday on Sunday and 11am on Monday. A police spokesman said: "The fire

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Kidderminster Harriers FC - Fixtures and results - 2003/04

Pre-season friendlies Sat July 12 Evesham (a) 3-1 Lewis, J Williams, Paschalis Sun July 13 Stratford (a) 1-0 Ward Sat July 19 Boldmere (a) 6-1 (og), J Williams 2, Lightbourne, Wilding, Danks Mon July 21 Leicester (h) 1-1 Shilton Sat July 26 West Brom

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Thriller's full of twists and turns

A GRIPPING thriller is set to electrify audiences at the Rose Theatre in Kidderminster. The Business of Murder is being performed by resident acting group, The Nonentities, from Monday until Saturday, May 15, and promises to create a sensation, with its

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Living on Green Street

SCHOOLCHILDREN are being taught the importance of kerbside recycling at an environmental education centre near Stourport. The Bishops Wood Centre, Crossway Green, is in the grounds of a National Grid Transco electricity substation and is one of 12 centres

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Music to aid war memorial

WEST Mercia Constabulary Band and The Valentines choir are poised to perform a musical spectacular in aid of Kidderminster War Memorial Conservation Trust. The concert, which is being held in Kidderminster Town Hall, starts at 8pm on Friday, May 14. Tickets

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Busy mum on charity mission

A MUM-of-three from Habberley is on a gruelling mission to do something exciting before she hits 40 - and is set to raise thousands of pounds for charity in the process. Helen Scott, who turns 40 in November, is preparing to walk 60 miles in five days

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Time to go potty at castle museum

CREATIVE children are being given the opportunity to go potty at Worcestershire County Museum this week. The museum at Hartlebury Castle is hosting a fun-filled event called "Lots of Pots" on Sunday, which will see a Stourport potter help children to

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Get back to nature

A FAMILY bird and nature weekend is poised to take place at the Frank Chapman Centre in Bewdley. More information on the event, which takes place from Friday until Sunday, May 14 until 16, can be obtained by calling 01299 403292.

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Diners serve up cash for hospice

A FRENCH restaurant has served up nearly £7,000 towards a children's hospice appeal. Dominque's, in Shatterford, near Kidderminster, has hosted an annual charity event for the Acorns hospice charity for the last five years. The hospice is currently being

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Theatre

Rose, Kidderminster - The Business of Murder, Monday until May 15. Edgecliffe High School, Kinver - Annie, Monday until May 15. Alexandra, Birmingham - Turandot, Tuesday. Crescent, Birmingham - Pygmalion, Wednesday until May 22. Repertory, Birmingham

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Exhibitions

Library, Kidderminster - Original paintings by Pauline Reed, until May 22. County Museum, Hartlebury - Lifting the Lid, until September 30. Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Birmingham - The Great and the Good: Judging Quality in Art, until Sunday. Works

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Grasstrack season starts

THE third meeting of the Cotswold Youth Grasstrack Club meeting takes place on Sunday. The venue for all the club's seven meetings this year is Ashdown Farm, Knowle Hill, Badsey. The club is open to children and young adults from six to 16, providing

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Attend meeting

THE Evesham and District Association will stage its annual general meeting at Wallace House Community Centre next Wednesday, May 12, from 7.30pm. There is a proposal of an addition to league rule 9 and it is hoped that as many people as possible will

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Courts open for play

THE tennis section of Evesham Rowing Club is running a 'Play Tennis' evening tomorrow as part of the LTA's national initiative. The event will take place at the club's courts in Abbey Park between 4.30 and 8.30pm and is aimed at raising interest in tennis

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Tough time after training

EVESHAM Swimming Club duo Adrian Mayhew and James Fletcher headed off to the Hereford Duat-hlon after returning from a hard training camp in Lanzarote. Both wanted to see how the training would affect them, with the idea for Fletcher to start his build-up

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Champions in opening shock

Prudden Road Surfacing League REIGNING champions Strat-ford C began their defence of the title with a tough fixture against 2002 winners Studley A. Although the match was much tighter than the final scoreline suggests, it was Studley who surprised their

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Homing returns

Evesham and District Flying Club TWELVE members sent 173 birds to Salisbury on May 2 liberated at 11.55am into a light south west wind. 1 H Heckingbottom 1640.09; 2 Mr & Mrs W F Hewins 1633.88; 3 M Beale 1632.85; 4 A Newman 1925.43; 5 Mr & Mrs

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Men and women start new season off in style

IN their opening Concorde Ladies League game of the season, Broadway entertained Hewell on a cold damp day when the green stood up well. The host club recorded a comfortable victory after wins on two of the rinks, a draw on one and defeat on the other

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Newcomer Paul lands early victory

AN ANNUAL competition in memory of a founder member of the Littleton club was staged last Sunday. This year's winners were Dave Bartlett, Betty Jelfs and Paul Emms, who managed to relegate the trio of Angie Cotton, Richard Collins and Basil Byrd to runners-up

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Ian notches up a win brace

A DOZEN dinghies took to the Evesham club's water on Sunday to enjoy the warm sunshine and gentle breeze. A strong flow on the river added another dimension to the tactics needed to succeed and staying close to the banks in the upstream legs helped the

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Double top for Wheeler

BEN Stockdale, a 14-year-old member of Evesham Wheelers, won both his races at Leam-ington last weekend. Tom Stockdale (11) finished fourth and 15-year-old Matt Ullmer eighth in the first road race. He then went for victory in the second race but unfortunately

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League celebrates inaugural season

Evesham Invitation League THE newly formed league ended its first season at the Ambassador Club last Friday with its finals and presentation night. Three finals were contested on the night. The three-man-team event was won by Darren Selvey, Kei Nishigaki

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* Child Porn man's anger * End of lane for Ronkswood Bowlers * Hereford v Worcestershire cricket lat

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Top firm in major shake-up

ONE of Worcestershire's largest accountancy practices has announced major senior management changes. Three senior managers at Crowther Beard LLP have accepted an offer to become Members. Tom Morgan, who joined the firm straight from Cardiff University

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Firms are urged to aid youth

COMPANIES in Worcestershire are being asked to step out from the shadows and really make a difference to a young person's life. The Prince's Trust helps young disadvantaged people, aged 14 to 30 years old, realise their potential through financial support

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Farm to make way for houses

AGRICULTURAL buildings at a Binton farm will be demolished and barns converted to houses in a scheme approved by Stratford District Council planners. The Avon area planning committee meeting last Thursday gave planning permission and listed-building consent

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Delight in Russian choral music

ST LEONARD'S Church at Bretforton is hosting a visit by the St Petersburg Blagovest Ensemble, conducted by Olga Kozlova, this Saturday at 7.30pm. Blagovest sing 40 minutes of sacred music in the first half. Russia's sacred choral music, much of it penned

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Musical voyage

A SERIES of concerts in Warwickshire churches will start with Bizzaries, a young European ensemble, playing in St Laurence's Church in Bidford. The concert on Friday, May 14 will feature Christiane Guller and James O'Toole on violins, Kate Fawcett on

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No cameras - if the drivers didn't speed

IN reply to John Walker (letters April 29), if motorists didn't repeatedly exceed the legal speed limits, there would be no need for speed cameras. GEORGE COWLEY, Windermere Drive, Warndon, Worcester.

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KVCC start is given soaking

THE wet weather decimated Kidderminster Victoria's programme at the weekend with no games being completed. In the Birmingham and District League Division One, KVCC firsts' visit to Smethwick was abandoned without a single ball being bowled. Ten points

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Bewdley bitten

BOTH Bewdley's Worcestershire League Division One clashes with Pershore were abandoned. The thirds started their Division Seven programme with an excellent eight-wicket win over Enville. They took the full 24 points after skittling their opponents out

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Porn man: the council hate me

A DISGRACED ex-councillor has become locked in a bitter battle with his former colleagues as he contemplates leaving the town he served for more than 20 years. Keith Rogers - who was fined £5,000 last September for possessing indecent photographs of children

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Go-between: 'I was told to deny deal'

A businessman has told a jury how he became suspicious over a scheme to sell ornate fireplaces and other items from a listed building in Worcester owned by Kays catalogue firm. Kevin Dudas claimed he gave £2,100 to Ian Tannock and was allowed £800 commission

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Bowls shock

HUNDREDS of bowlers have been left "shocked and dismayed" after learning Worcester's only indoor club has been closed to make way for a new entertainment complex. Perdiswell Bowling Club, in Droitwich Road, provided entertainment for more than 450 Players

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Over 50, halitosis, bad back? Nothing new there

A SKELETON that was unearthed during excavations at Worcester's Commandery has provided clues to the man's life - he suffered from bad breath. Archaeologists uncovered two skeletons during excavations for two lift shafts in January and have since discovered

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Co-op store shake-up means three more jobs

A CONVENIENCE store in Bromyard has been given a major overhaul, with three new jobs created in the process. The Co-op's acquired Alldays store in High Street has had a £180,000 refit and its new look will be unveiled today. The revamp includes automatic

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Two tons and £99,000 bagged

JUST half way into this year's Rubbish? Sort It! campaign, already more than two tons of waste has been cleared. Despite poor weather conditions during the past fortnight, 180 children and adults have taken part in 12 litter picking and recycling events

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Day to make people more aware of ME

AN open day is to be held in Worcester encouraging sufferers of a debilitating condition to raise awareness of the illness. The event will take place on International ME Day on Wednesday, May 12. The open day has been organised by the Worcestershire ME

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Forced to wait in cell for sentence

A HEROIN user who has admitted stealing and ignoring court orders has been kept in prison while his sentence is decided. Philip Hollings, of Fallowfields, in Warndon Villages, pleaded guilty at Worcester Magistrates Court to one count of theft and another

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Come on then, let's have it - man's rage

AN unemployed man launched a volley of threats and abuse before smashing a window during an alcohol-fuelled outburst at a Worcester hostel. Kevin Smith, of St Paul's Hostel, Tallow Hill, flew into a rage on Saturday, May 1, when he discovered a new tenant

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Minibus is a wheely nice gift!

A LONG-STANDING client of a voluntary transport scheme has shown her gratitude by leaving the organisation a legacy. The bequest of Betty Evans, of Penbury Street, Barbourne, has gone a long way to securing a new minibus for Worcester Wheels, which is

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Encouraging staff to travel with care

A NEW travel grant is being offered to help encourage Herefordshire businesses to introduce and promote sustainable ways for employees to get to work. The scheme is being run by Herefordshire Council and aims to reduce single-occupancy car journeys by

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Aids-blood blackmailer

THE case against a nurse who blackmailed supermarket giant Tesco by threatening to infect food with Aids-contaminated blood was dramatically adjourned yesterday. Franco Riolfo, aged 58, formerly of Newtown Bridge, Tenbury Wells, and now living in Cornwall

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Protesters bid to save their school

ANGRY parents marched on a "totally inadequate" surgery-style meeting to protest against mooted closures and mergers of Wyre Forest schools. Scores of mums, dads and pupils descended on Kidderminster College on Tuesday to protest at how the meetings were

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Elver levels slip to a low

LEVELS of young eels in the River Severn have dropped dramatically over the past 20 to 30 years, according to a report released by the Environment Agency. In the report entitled Our Nation's Fisheries, released today, the Severn is described as one of

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Welder guilty of key role in cocaine plot

A 38-YEAR-OLD Kidderminster welder showed no emotion as he was convicted of playing a key role in an organised plot to smuggle £55 million worth of cocaine into the country. Mark Reeves, who was warned he faces many years in prison, will be sentenced

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Playing fields revamp to start

WORK on upgrading Kidderminster's Borrington Road playing fields can now get under way, following the reaching of a £200,000 cash target. Confirmation this week of £75,000 of funding from Living Spaces meant the Offmore Comberton Action Group - OCAG -

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Commuters diverted as road work begins

MOTORISTS driving to and from Evesham along Worcester Road will be diverted for a month as work on the Chadbury to Twyford road continues. From Monday a stretch of the road will be closed and traffic diverted along the Squires, which will have traffic

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Choir saying it from the heart

KIND-HEARTED members of Kidderminster Male Choir are singing their way into the history books by buying more than £8,000 of heart-monitoring and blood pressure equipment for three of the largest doctor's surgeries in Wyre Forest. Publicity officer Paul

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Ashley's happy to be back from Basra

FLAGS and banners were flying in Burford last Saturday to welcome home Trooper Ashley Fletcher, aged 21, after a six-month tour of duty in Iraq with the Queen's Royal Hussars. The former Tenbury High School pupil has been serving with coalition forces

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Lives and jobs will be 'at risk'

FIREFIGHTERS in Wyre Forest have been left in fear of their jobs after Government spending chiefs demanded a £2.3 million budget cut. The orders from the top - which came after a 23.5 per cent increase in this year's fire brigade component in council

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Fireworks spark fury

THE sister of a Habberley pensioner has made an impassioned appeal for people to be more considerate when letting off fireworks after an impromptu display sent her sister into a diabetic shock, which she claims could have killed her. Claire Evans was

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Cash lifeline for town's swim pool

NEWS that Tenbury Swimming Pool could be going down the drain if urgent repairs are not carried out, has brought a swift response from councillors. A rescue package to prevent the facility's closure is being prepared by officers from Malvern Hills District

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Harriers fan is Labour choice

LABOUR has selected the person it hopes will claim Wyre Forest's parliamentary seat at the next General Election. Marc Bayliss, 31, was chosen as the party's prospective parliamentary candidate for the constituency, which was in Labour hands until Health

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6/5/04 Wayne Hatswell and Jan Molby after Torquay

WAYNE Hatswell feels Kidderminster Harriers must keep improving on set-pieces to increase their goal tally. As director of football Jan Molby pointed out after Saturday's 1-1 draw at Torquay, goals from corners are "cheap". But Hatswell's volley from

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Portrait of former PM returns home

A PORTRAIT of one of Wyre Forest's most famous sons has been returned to its rightful home, thanks to creative thinking by council chiefs. A painting of former Prime Minister and Bewdley resident, Stanley Baldwin, has been copied and hung at the headquarters

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TV's Andy makes fresh house call

A TV handyman from Kidderminster who began plying his trade on camera on the popular BBC show Trading Up is appealing for untidy Wyre Forest home-owners to hand over their houses to his latest programme. Soldier-turned-joiner Andy Davis moved to the town

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Help to cope with long-term illness

WHEN Wolverley ME sufferer, Janet Oliver, attended a course on how to cope with long-term illness, she was so impressed with the results that she resolved to bring it to Wyre Forest. Two years later, not only has she succeeded in bringing the Experts

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Tree budget is just £8,000 for district

ONE man's battle to save trees on a Stourport estate from the axeman has brought a change of policy by Worcestershire County Council. Peter Barrass went to the Local Government Ombudsman after four maple trees were axed in Field End, on Lickhill Lodge

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Health is top of list

IMPROVING health services was the top priority for residents in a survey by Wyre Forest District Council. More than half those questioned - 56 per cent - wanted better health services, while just under half - 46 per cent - wanted to see crime levels reduced

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Sporty duo tackle charity challenge

A SPORTY couple are to take up two very different challenges - on four and two wheels. While Steve Carter tackles mountainous terrain for a charity cycle ride, his wife, Simone, has gone for an altogether more unusual challenge, for cerebral palsy charity

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Flooding boss eyes top prize

THE man who masterminded the multi-million pound flood defence scheme at Bewdley is in line for a top award. The Environment Agency's Roger Prestwood stands a chance of scooping the Public Servant of the Year Award 2004. Mr Prestwood was project manager

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'Kill' threat addict jailed

A SHOPLIFTER caught by security staff in a supermarket threatened to cut the manager's heart out. Richard McDermott, a heroin addict, claimed he only had six months to live. A month later he was stopped by police as he carried needles from a syringe in

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Sports clubs miss out on cash

AMATEUR sports clubs throughout Wyre Forest can benefit from a cash boost in the wake of new Government rate relief guidelines. The way the clubs are being given the relief was changed in the Finance Act 2002, with Chancellor, Gordon Brown, announcing

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Jane signs up for all-over makeover

"IT'S my last chance at being a 'babe'," simpered one of the celebrity "fatties" on TV's Fit Club series as she outlined why she was desperate to shed weight. Well, I know just what she meant. I had my first and only child, a son, over three years ago

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Willersey

YOUNG PEOPLE'S PROJECT: The recently formed Group is making progress with support from the young members and the village generally. Funds have been received from a bingo session and a donation from the Willersey Footlights Show. WEDNESDAY CLUB: The theme

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Mickleton

PARISH COUNCIL: The monthly meeting was held in King George's Hall. Coun L Stowe chaired the meeting. The meeting opened with a report given by Andy Fogden, a special constable concerned with neighbourhood watch from Gloucestershire Police, reporting

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Pershore

FLOWER AND CRAFT SHOW: Will be held on Saturday, August 7 beginning at 1pm until 5pm, at the Angel Hotel Riverside Gardens, High Street, Pershore (by permission of Mr Juan Mendez). Schedules and entry forms are now available from Pershore Tourist Office

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Too busy to prevent speed?

I WAS surprised to read the letters from drivers complaining about the speed-check cameras. As a law abiding driver I was at first pleased and surprised to read about the cameras. But they really aren't meant to work - that's why they are brightly painted

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Amateur theatre groups vie for national drama title

AMATEUR theatre groups will be converging on The Vale this Saturday for the regional finals of a national drama competition. The winners of the competition at Evesham Arts Centre will go on to the finals of the All England Theatre Festival in June. Vale

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A musical treat for opera fans

OPERA lovers are in for a rare treat when one of London's premier touring opera companies sings out for two local charities at a special musical evening in Worcester Cathedral this summer. Pavilion Opera will be performing Donizetti's comic opera L'elisir

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Snooker bad boy visits town

SNOOKER: Fiery character Quinten Hann will let his snooker skills do the talking at a Kidderminster exhibition on Sunday evening. The Australian world number 14 is due to visit Pockets in Church Street to take on past club champions and a lucky few others

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Young races away with triple success

SAILING: Alison Young was a triple winner at the first Midland Women's Track and Field League meet of the season. More than 20 athletes from Kidderminster and Stourport turned out on Sunday and the team finished third, despite not entering every event

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Dan shrugs off golfing stunner

GOLF: Bewdley Pines junior Dan Ballinger took it all in his stride when he buried a hole-in-one in a stableford competition. The Kidderminster 15-year-old, who has gone down to a handicap of 12 in around four years, followed up his first-time feat at

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Bow strikes again

GOLF: Val Bow won the April Stableford at Wyre Forest's ladies section. Scores: Bow 13 handicap 33 points, Dawn Gregg 22-32 (last nine), Margaret Ellor 25-32, Millie Whitmore 34-34.

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Shower wait woman dies

A STOURPORT woman who had been waiting 16 months for a special bath or shower to be fitted in her home has died - without the improvements ever going ahead. Gladys Teague was featured in the Shuttle/Times and News in March when it emerged there had been

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Beam brilliance boosts Midlands

GYMNASTICS: Hannah Pietkowicz was the youngest gymnast for the West Midlands as they won silver at the Voluntary One Championships in Kettering. The Wyre Forest Gymnastic School 15-year-old was in impressive form as the region narrowly missed out to London

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Award for Afghan work

A STOURPORT airman has been singled out for special praise for his work raising morale among troops in Afghanistan during his tour of duty. Sgt Andrew Rose, 36, an RAF physical training instructor and physiotherapist, was deployed to Kabul as part of

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Sun bright in end

DARTS: Rising Sun B player Paul Walsh booked his team into the Banks's Bewdley League team knockout final with a nervy deciding game in the semis. Walsh defeated Great Western's Ash Bateman to set up a clash with Bliss Gate at Bewdley Bowling Club on

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JOHN DANBY - Goalkeeper. 20/9/83. 6ft 2ins. Squad number 15.

Stepped onto the bench after the release of Brendan Murphy and was needed to make two substitute appearances in season 2001/02, including a league debut at Luton. The Stoke-born teenager had been playing for the U-19s, including during their fine FA Youth

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Macaroni maestro Tom snares tench at the Mill

STOURPORT angler Tom Clark had an excellent time at Furnace Mill Fishery as tench seemed to be the fish to catch. Using macaroni cheese and fishing from peg 30 on Furnace Pool, Clark caught around 60lb with his best a quality 4lb tench. A Telford man,

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GRAHAM WARD - Central midfield, right midfield. 25/2/83. 5ft 8ins. Squad number 20.

The Republic of Ireland U-20s captain did well in the reserves at Wolverhampton Wanderers but failed to make his first-team debut. Ward was released at the end of the 2002/03 season as a result but caught Ian Britton's eye in a trial with Harriers and

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POOLE HALL FISHERY

THERE has been good sport on all waters with weights from 17lb to 73lb. Maggot sweetcorn, lunchmeat and macaroni cheese have been the popular baits. Wednesday Open, Heron: Eddie Foster 46-2 (peg 46), Roy Arnold 54-8 (48), Brian Bird 31-4 (32). Saturday

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ADAM MURRAY - Midfield. 30/9/81. 5ft 9ins. Squad number 17.

Once capped by England U-20s and also in the national youth sides, the Birmingham-born midfielder has had a turbulent 2003-04 season. Murray signed for Harriers on an 18-month contract in January 2004 following a brief loan spell of three games earlier

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MOORLANDS FARM

WEDNESDAY, Meadow, 17 fished: David Bradford (Beechdale) 129-12 (58), David James (Moorland Elite) 110-12 (49), Stuart Pulsar (DGL) 100-10 (15). Thursday, Meadow, 11: James (Moorlands Elite) 111-6 (42), Mark Jones (Van de Hyde) 89-1 (54), Roy Evans (Moorlands

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WAGGON AND HORSES AC

HIGH Oak: B Edwards 19-5, A Wilmot 1-6, M Wood 1-0. The next contest is on Sunday, May 16, at Townsend Fisheries with a 7.30am draw.

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TOMKINSONS AC

A CONTEST, drawn at 8am at the venue, will be held on Sunday at Cookley Canal.

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Man, 36 charged

A 36-year-old Kidderminster man is due to appear before magistrates charged with two counts of assault. The hearing, which will take place at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday, May 14, is in connection with an incident last month in which two

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Sex pest lucky to escape jail term

A SERIAL sex offender was warned by a judge that he faced a jail sentence if he did not comply with a therapy programme to help him stop. Mark Nunn indecently assaulted a 21-year-old woman after calling at her home at night, Worcester Crown Court heard

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Shake-up in junior ranks

EVESHAM United is one of 20 clubs to express support for the launch of a new youth development league. The Midland Junior Premier League will offer hundreds of youngsters aged 12-16 the chance to develop their skills against players from fellow clubs.

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Lennie's lift a final priority

IT'S been the toughest week of Lennie Derby's long stint as manager of Stratford Town. And it's not over yet, writes Mervyn Collins. Five days after seeing his side fail to clinch a top two league finish, the Masons Road boss now has the task of lifting

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Top-six bid gathering pace

BEWDLEY Town gave a major boost to their top-six West Midlands League Division One South hopes by beating rivals Wyre Forest Brintons 4-1 on Saturday. They need the finish to secure a place in the new Division One next season which will incorporate the

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Rovers rattled but hit back to capture cup

GALLANT Ashton proved more than a match for Offenham in normal time of last Sunday's Evesham Mechanical Services Subsidiary Cup final. However, the top flight side turned the tables in extra-time when four goals secured a trophy for rampant Rovers. The

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Rangers rattle up a double

IT'S been a memorable week for Badsey Rangers Under-14s after a Cheltenham Youth League first title triumph and League Cup success. The youngsters overcame Charlton Rovers Blues 4-2 to clinch the championship and then went one goal better at Whaddon Road

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Pratt levels for Chaddesley

LAST week's derby clash between Chaddesley Corbett and Wyre Forest Brintons ended all square at 1-1. Forest Brintons had chances to be 3-1 ahead by half-time but an inability to put them away kept their rivals in the West Midlands League Division One

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Brain uses head to winning effect

Knowle 0, Littleton 1 LITTLETON wound up their season with an excellent away win at the home of last season's first division champions who were unable to secure promotion because of the lack of floodlights. This was a battling performance from the visitors

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Junior round-up . . . Junior round-up . . . Junior round-up

Pershore Tn Girls U-12 2, Worcester City 0 PERSHORE needed one point from their final match of the season to clinch the Mercian League title. They faced the side they had defeated in the League Cup final and victory saw them complete the double and end

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Sun's rising after their cup triumph

STOURPORT side Rising Sun won the Kidderminster and District League Saturday Junior Cup. Sun shone in a 2-1 win over Clee Hill United Reserves at Stourport Swifts' Walshes Meadow ground. Sunday Premier team Brintons CI Social moved into the Roy Marchant

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Youngsters lose out in last eight quest

EVESHAM United Under-12s travelled to Nene Park, the home of Rushden and Diamonds, last Saturday to take part in the Diamond Cup, a six-a-side competition open to all clubs in the country. The opening match saw the Robins overwhelm Scawby Jets as their