Archive
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Elvis rocks on!
THERE'S an opportunity to get all shook up and celebrate the life of the king of rock n' roll, Elvis Presley, at a Valentine's disco on Friday February 4. Elvis-mania has been sweeping the country of late as this year would have been the year he turned
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Back to the 60s
TOWNSFOLK are invited to cast their minds back for a night of nostalgia recreating the 1960s. The decade was known as a hotbed for some of the finest bands in pop music and two of the most exceptional vocal harmony bands to come out of the era, The Fortunes
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Opera chance
LOCAL singers keen to join one of the oldest and most established Choral Societies in the country will be interested to know that rehearsals have begun for the next production of the Worcester Festival Choral Society. The concert, 'A night at the Opera
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Children's favourite waltzes in
THE magical tale of a young boy's adventures on Christmas Eve, The Snowman, opened at Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Friday. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs and featuring the classic song Walking In The Air, The Snowman makes a welcome return to
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Search for pop icon
TALENTED young pop artists are invited to enter a countywide competition to find the Worcestershire Pop Icon 2005. Young people aged between 12 and 18 who attend Worcestershire LEA schools can compete for the title and there will be prizes for the winning
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Dressing up for theatre
NICHOLAS Lyndhurst and Julian Glover star in the first major revival of Ronald Harwood's The Dresser at Malvern's Festival Theatre from Monday. Inspired by the memories of his years working as Donald Wolfitt's dresser, Harwood's "evocative, perceptive
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What's On Guide
Thursday, January 20 The Snowman, Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Until January 30. Tickets from 0121 236 4455. Jack and the Beanstalk, Birmingham Hippodrome. Until January 30. Tickets from 0870 730 1234. Worcester Gilbert & Sullivan Society: The Pirates
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Still panto time
MEMBERS of Longbridge Methodist Church are extending the festive season even further by putting on a pantomime during the half-term holiday. The group is staging Puss in Boots to raise money for a charity for poor and abused women in Bolivia. Spokeswoman
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Search is beginning for theatrical talent
YOUNG shining stars from the local area are invited to join the National Youth Theatre (NYT) both in the acting and technical departments. Auditions and interviews for the West Midlands will take place in Birmingham. The theatre can offer all acting applicants
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What's on guide
Wednesday January 19 FILM: Being Julia, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. Thursday January 20 FILM: Good morning night, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. Friday January 21 TRIBUTE: Fred Zeppelin, tribute to Led Zeppelin
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Drop looms for Spa
Droitwich 10 Ledbury 18 THE RELEGATION trap door swung perilously open below Droitwich after they lost this crucial match on Saturday. Defeat ensured Spa are firmly stuck at the bottom of the Midlands Division Three West (South). The result from Saturday's
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Duo rally for record
A DETERMINED duo from Droitwich Spa Tennis Club are attempting to smash the world record for the longest rally in order to help raise money for a new clubhouse. Steve Worrallo and Allan Benbow are set to push themselves to the limit when they attempt
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Back to the 60s
TOWNSFOLK are invited to cast their minds back for a night of nostalgia recreating the 1960s. The decade was known as a hotbed for some of the finest bands in pop music and two of the most exceptional vocal harmony bands to come out of the era, The Fortunes
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Lecturer's 'toxic' fight in Brussels
A WORCESTER lecturer who underwent chemical contamination tests with her family is among a group of campaigners lobbying the European Parliament. Ecology lecturer Beth Williams is among World Wildlife Fund staff members and Women's Institute members who
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Search for a star
THE hunt has begun for Worcestershire's most talented young pop artists and the stars of tomorrow are being asked to enter Pop Icon 2005, a competition to find the cream of the singing crop in our county. Youngsters between 12 and 18 are encouraged to
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Doc gives the gift of sight
A DOCTOR whose parents live in Droitwich is pioneering breakthrough research into developing a treatment for blindness. The treatment, created by specialist Dr Paul Foster and his team of scientists, is being hailed as the most important potential advance
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Helping blind cook
WORCESTERSHIRE Association for the Blind is looking for two volunteers to help users during their cookery classes. The charity runs beginners' classes on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 12.30pm at its centre in Sansome Walk and advanced classes at Worcester Technology
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Opera chance
LOCAL singers keen to join one of the oldest and most established Choral Societies in the country will be interested to know that rehearsals have begun for the next production of the Worcester Festival Choral Society. The concert, 'A night at the Opera
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Man held after fatal road crash
A MAN has been arrested in connection with the death of a female pedestrian on the B4085 at Cleeve Prior, near Evesham. The woman was involved in a collision with a white Vauxhall Midi Merit van near Little Meadows, Evesham Road, on Monday at around 9.30pm
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Death is being investigated
A MAN found collapsed on the steps of a Worcestershire police station has been named. Leon Laga, aged 24, from Bewdley Hill in Kidderminster, was found outside the town's police station in Habberley Road on Saturday morning and was pronounced dead at
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Obstruction
CLARE Prosser, 28, of Grenville Road, St John's, was not charged with assaulting a police officer, as published in Thursday's Evening News. Ms Prosser pleaded guilty to obstructing the officer when she appeared at Worcester Magistrates' Court last Wednesday
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Learning about other ways of life
CHAPATI-making, Indian stick-dancing and dressing up in saris were just a few of the activities performed by pupils at a Worcester school. More than 270 four to seven-year-olds at Northwick Manor Infant School, Northwick Road, took part in the activities
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Wildlife haven
ENVIRONMENTALLY-friendly pupils have planted a tree each at a Worcester school. Norton-Juxta-Kempsey CE First School pupils were given a choice of oak, ash and silver birch trees as part of a school ground development project. The youngsters have named
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Eason urged to take his chance
BROMSGROVE RFC coach Dean Ball has urged Ben Eason to stake a claim as the team's regular fly-half in Saturday's game at Longton after Matt Birch pulled out. The reliable kicker misses the mid-table clash in the Midlands Division One because of a back
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£1,500 tools stolen
TOOLS worth £1,500 were stolen from a van in Brockhill. Thieves broke into the back of the white Ford Escort van parked off Pink Green Lane between 4pm on Sunday and 7am the following day. A Bosch 24v battery drill in a green and grey case, a Makita 12v
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Appeal after theft
POLICE are appealing for information following the theft of a trailer from a compound in Oxleasow Road in Moons Moat. The curtain-sided multi axle trailer, which was empty at the time, was stolen between 4.15pm on Wednesday, January 12 and 9am the next
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Car crime's key cause
A CAR was stolen in Alvechurch after the driver left the keys in the ignition. Police have warned motorists to be vigilant following the theft from Blythesway on Wednesday, January 5. At the time, around 6.30pm, the driver was making a delivery and had
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Let us all pray for no snow
CHILDREN look forward to snow for many reasons - not least the likelihood that they'll get a day off school. But the pupils of Bishop Perowne High School have a particular reason for not wanting to be in class when the white stuff is lying deep and crisp
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'It was a disgrace'
REDDITCH United chairman Pat Cremin said he will be writing to the Football Association after the "absolutely disgraceful" way the Reds fans were treated at Workington's Borough Park on Saturday. Cremin said the 150-plus fans were left to suffer the inclement
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Club show four-ce at gala event
REDDITCH Swimming Club got a taste of life in the Nuneaton Diddy League when they came up against five other first division clubs in the Ginger North Relay Gala at Leamington. Despite the tough competition Redditch finished a creditable fourth position
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No Trophy for Reds
Carlisle United 3 Redditch United 1 THERE will be no dream run in the FA Trophy for the Reds as Carlisle got the upper hand in dire conditions at Borough Park. With the game shifted to Workington Town's Northern Premier ground after Carlisle's Brunton
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Bromsgrove RFC First XV fixtures 2004/2005
HOME, away (Midlands One fixtures unless stated) SEPTEMBER Sat 4 BROADSTREET 29-0 Sat 11 Dunstablians 31-42 Sat 25 KETTERING 19-38 OCTOBER Sat 2 Leicester Lions 17-54 Sat 9 LUCTONIANS 17-12 Sat 23 Derby 16-9 Sat 30 LONGTON 32-15 NOVEMBER Sat 13 Scunthorpe
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Strach returns to Beehive
FORMER Bee Richard Kavanagh returned to the hive as Studley rattled in two goals in each half to beat Westfields 4-2. Kavanagh had been at Halesowen Town and Solihull Borough before being plagued with injuries which has forced him on the sidelines for
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Plans to fall flat?
STUDLEY parish councillors are to take the unusual step of asking Stratford Council to revoke planning permission to convert a semi-detached house into flats. The parish council recently wrote to Stratford Council outlining a number of deep concerns it
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Rostill miss costs
KEITH Rostill missed a penalty as Alvechurch tasted their eighth away defeat in the Alliance this season at Quorn losing 3-0. With the sides level Rostill stepped up but the Quorn keeper saved and to rub salt into wounds Joe Jonas went on to score midway
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Homes could finally be built
A PATCH of overgrown land in Headless Cross which has been the subject of a number of controversial planning applications for housing - as well as two planning appeals - might finally be developed. The land, behind homes on Feckenham Road and Marlpit
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Children's favourite waltzes in
THE magical tale of a young boy's adventures on Christmas Eve, The Snowman, opened at Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Friday. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs and featuring the classic song Walking In The Air, The Snowman makes a welcome return to
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Goal crazy
FECKENHAM continued their amazing form in front of goal as they battered Southam United 5-2 at Valley Stadium. The Millers have netted ten times in just two games after also putting a five star performance against Highgate United. "There have been a lot
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Proud housing is a delight
HOUSING stock and repairs are "better than ever and will continue to improve", says Redditch Council Leader David Cartwright. At a meeting of the full council on Monday, Mr Cartwright said the authority hoped to spend about £8 million in 2005/06 on its
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Bishop in call over Catholics
ROMAN Catholics should not be prevented from being head of the Church of England, according to the Bishop of Worcester. Dr Peter Selby has thrown his weight behind calls for the repeal of 17th Century legislation which prevents the heir to the throne
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Crowbars gang grabs PO cash
TWO men armed with crowbars stole a "substantial amount" of money from Eckington Post Office. No one was injured in the incident in Church Street yesterday lunchtime but a member of staff was threatened with the two-foot-long crowbars by the men who were
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Seasonal stress raises the stakes for suicide
COUNSELLING organisations have spoken out about the pressure of the festive period after two men from south Worcestershire killed themselves on Christmas Day after marriage difficulties. The Worcester Samaritans said there was always somebody who could
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Husband hanged himself during Christmas lunch
A LANDSCAPE gardener hanged himself on Christmas Day because his marriage to the woman he was "besotted" with broke down. Matthew Newton separated from his wife Amelia a few months before Christmas. He was supposed to join her for lunch with friends on
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Search for pop icon
TALENTED young pop artists are invited to enter a countywide competition to find the Worcestershire Pop Icon 2005. Young people aged between 12 and 18 who attend Worcestershire LEA schools can compete for the title and there will be prizes for the winning
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What's On Guide
Thursday, January 20 The Snowman, Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Until January 30. Tickets from 0121 236 4455. Jack and the Beanstalk, Birmingham Hippodrome. Until January 30. Tickets from 0870 730 1234. Worcester Gilbert & Sullivan Society: The Pirates
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Toy raffle brings in the cash
PUPILS and staff at Worcester's Cranham Primary School have raised £720 to help those affected by the Asian tsunami disaster. The school held a staff raffle, a children's disco and a children's bring and buy sale where pupils brought in old toys to sell
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Jamming
A JAMMING session is to take place at the Doverdale Arms in Stalls Farm Road, Droitwich, this Sunday to raise money for the Asian tsunami appeal. Musicians will be asked to make a donation to play at the event, which starts at 1pm. Several local bands
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Lucky escape for honeymoon pair
A HONEYMOON couple narrowly escaped being caught up in the tsunami disaster after their wedding in Malvern. Charlotte Hancock and Patrice Commarmond spent a fortnight in the Maldives after being married at Christ Church on Saturday, December 11. They
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Birdwatchers pay £1,000 to see rare pine bunting
THE extremely rare sight of a pine bunting in Worcestershire has raised almost £1,000 for the victims of the Asian tsunami disaster. The bird, which is native to Asia, was spotted by Gavin Peplow, who helps run Birdline Midlands, an information phone
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Nick and Suzanne are glad to help appeal
MIDLANDS Today presenters Nick Owen and Suzanne Virdee (right) have pledged their support to the Evening News' Wishband Appeal and are encouraging you to do the same. The Evening News has thousands of aquamarine wristbands on order to help raise money
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Bulls pull out a Trophy treat
HEREFORD'S best performance for several weeks earned them a home tie in the fourth round of the FA Trophy and left boss Graham Turner well satisfied. Turner said: "It's been a good night's work and we could have scored more goals. "When the draw came
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Malvern leap into top three
MALVERN Town made it four wins in a row and secured third spot in the Travel Factory Alliance last night. Neil Hunt's in-form side defeated mid-table Racing Club Warwick 3-1 at the Langland Stadium. They are now just one point behind Rushall Olympic in
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Bradford stunned by Sixways young guns
WORCESTER Wanderers' young guns emulated the old boys with a stunning 17-0 victory at Bradford & Bingley Colts. The Sixways youngsters moved into the last 16 of the National Colts Cup with a hard-earned win in Yorkshire, after the senior side had
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Bad day for Cross
HEADLESS Cross Ladies put in one of their worst performances of their season against Kidderminster Harriers Ladies and suffered the consequences after going down 5-1. Still missing players in Teresa Boddington, Emma Brayley, Elaine Frampton, Lucy Henderson
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Miscellaneous
Bangladeshi Community Forum (Kidderminster): Secretary Moshahid Hussain-Fajakkir, 47 Leswell Lane, Kidderminster (01562 823427 or 07791 726452). Bewdley Mountaineering Club: Secretary, Vince Harrison (01299 871724). Black Country Society: Pat Dunn, Wyre
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TROPHY BITTER
HAD Redditch been victorious against the second best non-league football side in the country in the FA Trophy on Saturday they would have got the chance to play the best - Barnet - at home. But some things aren't to be and the fourth round draw was definitely
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Brilliant Bromsgrove trample Stourbridge
Stourbridge U15s 5 Bromsgrove U15s 56 THE BOARS produced a scintilating display of rugby to defeat their county rivals on Sunday. Tries for Banner (3), Waiman, Hewit, McGregory, Hudson, Talbot and a finely crafted final touch down by Whittam tore Stourbridge
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Volunteering can make such a big difference
THE recent response to the tsunami disaster in the Far East is another good example of how well off we are here at home. In general terms, most of us in this country are much better off in nearly all areas of our life than our parents were. Previous generations
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Working well
MAY I OFFER a few words in support of the re-cycling scheme in Bromsgrove. It is working well in our area and when it is fully implemented I am sure it will be just as successful in the rest of the district. Obviously access to narrow roads and service
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Vandalism - but no action
I WOULD like to thank the young gathering of undesirables that decided to amuse themselves recently (between 12midnight and 12.30am) by hammering on people's windows and wrenching the wing mirror off my car causing £150 worth of damage. Unfortunately,
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Praise for Alex staff
I FEEL it's important to comment, from a personal aspect, on the excellent treatment and care I received while a patient on Ward 17 at the Alexandra Hospital, Redditch, where I had surgery performed on both knees recently. Firstly, I was delighted to
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Fine response
WE would like to thank all those people who gave gifts and helped on the day to make the coffee morning and gift sale held at Droitwich Spa Council Chamber such a success. We were able to donate £461 to the Tsunami Disaster Appeal and would also thank
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Plumbing the depths
"WATCH your gutter language you, you're not at home now!" Such was my response when a lecturer in building years ago, to a teenager attempting to shock me. I could almost have guaranteed his reaction: "I don't swear at home Sir." "And you don't swear
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Lido should be the jewel
I STRONGLY agree with AH Laird's points in his letter about the Droitwich Lido and I believe they should be brought to the attention of the local council. The lido has lain idle and become an eyesore over the past three years since it closed. It should
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19/1/05 - Transfer frustration hits Harriers
MIDFIELD targets Chris Holland and Dean Bennett have both slipped out of Kidderminster Harriers boss Stuart Watkiss' grasp. Boston United are now not willing to let ex-Newcastle United and Birmingham City starlet Holland go, while Wrexham have also insisted
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Sending off blights victory
Marlow 0 Bromsgrove Rovers 2 Southern League Division One West RIAD ERRAJI was hero and villain as ruthless Rovers maintained their relentless promotion pace at Oak Tree Road on Saturday. The adventurous midfielder had set Rovers on their way by opening
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Ten man Villa rocked
Fairfield Villa 0 Old Hill Town 2 MARK Ingram's first half dismissal for violent conduct condemned Villa to an undeserved defeat in the Midland Combination Division One on Saturday. Up until the forward's straight red card for raising a hand to an Old
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Strikers help seal routine victory Bromyard beaten
Bromyard Town Youth 0 Bromsgrove Town Youth 4 CLINICAL Rovers routed Bromyard with two goals in each half in the Midland Floodlit League. Dan Wilkes set up Ryan Molesworth for the opener, before Craig Hope doubled the lead. Myron Semper almost added a
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Late show costs
Kings Norton 11 Edwardians 31 THE Kings men were dumped out of the cup at the first time of asking against some stiff opposition in the form of higher league Edwardians. But it was the last ten minutes that cost Norton after conceding 14 points to kill
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Graham grabs goal
Halfords Athletic 2 Droitwich Spa Reserves 3 FORBES Graham's last minute strike sent Spa into the final of the Evesham Hospital Charity Cup on Saturday. In-form Droitwich had to come from a goal down to beat the Stratford Alliance leaders. Goalkeeper
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Joseph on target
Bromsgrove Rovers Reserves 1 Chasetown Reserves 1 ROVERS found a hard working Chasetown side a tough nut to crack as the Midland Combination Reserve Division leaders managed a point. Bromsgrove had to scrap to pull back a goal against a powerful Chasetown
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Sending off blights victory
Marlow 0 Bromsgrove Rovers 2 RIAD ERRAJI was hero and villain as ruthless Rovers maintained their relentless promotion pace at Oak Tree Road on Saturday. The adventurous midfielder had set Rovers on their way by opening the scoring, but his second half
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50 years ago January 22, 1955
MR James Yates Holt, Bromsgrove's senior practising solicitor and one of the town's oldest inhabitants, celebrated his 93rd birthday at his home, Alloa House, in Birmingham Road. Among many visitors who called to wish him well were members of the Court
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100 years ago January 21, 1905
ON Monday, with her usual kindness, Lady Windsor played hostess to 191 pupils and staff from both Tardebigge day and Sunday schools, when she invited them to tea at Hewell Grange for their annual, eagerly looked forward to treat. The party marched through
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High Society
CORONATION Street actress Susie Blake stars in Cole Porter's hit musical High Society at the Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday, February 1, for one week. Adapted from one of Hollywood's best loved movies, this classic musical is a giddy blend of corking
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Fair trade firm is a cut above
A HAIR salon has been officially recognised as Redditch's first "fair trade" business. Rio Hair Salon, Birchfield Road, Headless Cross, was awarded the accolade by the Redditch Fair Trade Justice Group. The group promotes paying a decent price for Third
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No Trophy for Reds
Carlisle United 3 Redditch United 1 THERE will be no dream run in the FA Trophy for the Reds as Carlisle got the upper hand in dire conditions at Borough Park. With the game shifted to Workington Town's Northern Premier ground after Carlisle's Brunton
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Let's have EU details
MARK Starr's attempt to use the tsunami, in all its horror, as an implement with which to beat the European Union is contemptible (Evening News, Monday,January 10). Britain does not "give" the EU anything. We pay a subscription in the same way as an individual
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West Midland Bird Club - Kidderminster branch
It was a most enjoyable December evening when the branch held its own celebration to mark the occasion of the 75th anniversary year of the West Midland Bird Club. The evening commenced with a talk by Jan Harrigan, from the region's Swan Rescue Centre,
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Scandal of road perils
I READ in the Evening News of another major accident on the A44. I believe that your readers and their families' lives are regularly being put in danger by the dilatory treatment of the engineering on this road. I give for an instance the two lorries
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Worcester Birmingham Canal Society
The December issue of our monthly magazine, The Fifty Eight, named after the 58 locks from Tardebigge to the River Severn at Worcester, was a commemorative one to celebrate our 35th anniversary. Long-standing members sent in stories and memories of the
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Hadzor and Oddingley WI
It was nearly a full house when Jenny Marsh, our president, welcomed members and two visitors to our first meeting of 2005. Our secretary, Ann Ballard, read the minutes and gave out several notices, including dates for the group meeting and annual general
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All have equal worth but some cost a little more
DAN Kendrick (Evening News, Wednesday, January 11) in his regular column makes an important and telling point about every child being of equal "worth". He correctly reports what Ruth Kelly said in her recent speech. As a parent of three children in Worcester
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Droitwich WI
AS the December meeting took the form of entertainment by Tony Chipp and Anne Bucknall, it was decided to hold the Christmas party celebration at this meeting. Members met in the Community Centre on January 5 at 2pm. During the usual business, the members
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All you need is lunch . . .
STAFF at a Rubery supermarket celebrated the chain's 40th anniversary with a fancy dress party. Kwik Save, in Bristol Road South, marked the occasion with a 1960s theme bash. As part of the celebrations, the supermarket cut prices in every single store
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Row over old nailer's cottage
PLANS to extend an old nailer's cottage in Rubery have sparked a row. Councillor Peter McDonald (Lab-Waseley) has hit out at a scheme to extend the cottage, in Whetty Lane, saying it is unacceptable and would take away from the original design. The scheme
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Awards for stalwarts
VOLUNTEER fundraisers from the Bromsgrove branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution have received prestigious awards for their long service. Mary Hampton and Ann Brazier have been awarded gold badges for 29 and 28 years service respectively. Jenny
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New head at the helm
THE new headteacher at a town school has vowed to build on current success. Helen Heder was appointed the new head of Fairfield First School, in Stourbridge Road, at the start of the month. "I want to build on the successes the school has achieved," she
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Challenging
STOKE Prior First School hosted a Challenge Plus Day when pupils teamed up with other youngsters to set about the task of thinking up ideas to improve the world. Yesterday's event, presented by Scott Hurd of Services for Education and Industry, was attended
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Cash boost for clinic
A CLINIC in a Bromsgrove village will be closed for six months for much-needed refurbishment work. Redditch and Bromsgrove Primary Care Trust is to spend £300,000 upgrading the shabby Catshill Clinic, situated in The Dock. The building dates back to the
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Lampposts are replaced
NEW light has been shed on the Crown Close area of Bromsgrove. Eight old lampposts, some more than half a century old, have been replaced by new ones to light the roads and footpaths in the Close and around the neighbouring side of St John's church. The
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Swim to aid survivors
KIND-hearted children at Finstall First School raised stacks of cash for the survivors of the Indian Ocean tsunami. The money the children from the Carnforth Road school, Bromsgrove, have raised will go to the Hikkaduwa Village Fund. Eight-year-old Dylan
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You can't use my church - vicar
AN UNHOLY row is brewing between a parish council and a vicar after he told them some residents could not use his church for christenings, weddings or funerals. The problem started when Stoke Prior parish council - in its newsletter - welcomed residents
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First to see will buy
BROMSGROVE'S new multi-storey car park could be put to an alternative use - as a weekend second-hand car market. That's the hope of two Labour district councillors who claim the Churchfields facility is under used and that it could generate much-needed
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Superbug set to be wiped out
KILLER superbug MRSA could soon be a thing of the past - thanks to a revolutionary new product available exclusively in Droitwich Spa. Photocatworks Limited has just signed a deal with its Japanese partners to sell LightCLEAN, a spray-on coating which
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Voted out
A BROMSGROVE councillor has vowed to help her replacement after being axed from her top education post. June Longmuir (Con-Bromsgrove South) was the cabinet member for education and lifelong learning on Worcestershire County Council. But last Thursday
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Allowance call for councillors
MEMBERS of Stoke Parish Council should be paid an allowance for the work they do. Councillor Athol Deakin is calling for parish councillors to be paid a small amount, as he says the days of getting 'something for nothing are over'. "The days of parish
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Light at the end of the tunnel
SPARKY residents have jumped to the aid of Droitwich's ill-fated matchstick modelling club. Organiser Terry Hickman says he has been inundated with calls offering donations of money and matches for his new club since a story was published in last week's
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School tops exams table
STAFF at a Bromsgrove school are celebrating after they came out top in the A-level tables. South Bromsgrove High School, on Charford Road, is the best state school for A-levels in the whole of Worcestershire. South was sixth in the county's A-level league
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Arsonists destroy old oak
ARSONISTS destroyed one of Droitwich Spa's landmark trees, believed to be more than a century old. A £100 reward has been stumped up for information leading to the prosecution of the vandals who burnt the tree down in St Peter's Field, off Lyttleton Road
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Rocking along to help appeal
THE world of music is standing up to be counted when it comes to the tsunami appeal and Sunday, January 23, looks to be a top day for money-spinning. In Droitwich, at the Doverdale Arms, Stalls Farm Road, owners Nick Oakes and Sarah Harwood have donated
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Head talks tables
A DROITWICH Spa headteacher says the new secondary school league tables provided him with few surprises. Allan Foulds, of Droitwich Spa High School, spoke to the Advertiser about the government tables, published last Thursday. They are based on results
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Pantomime memories for Spa couple
WHEN Droitwich Spa couple, Bon and Betty Bartlett, saw the Norbury Theatre was staging Jack and the Beanstalk this month, it must have brought back some very happy memories. Bon and Betty met when they starred in the very same pantomime in Droitwich some
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Drop in on new group
A WELCOMING new group has been launched to help families who are part of the Droitwich Spa Home-Start scheme widen their social circle. Home-Start held it's first monthly drop-in session at the WANDS Centre on Westlands last Tuesday. Lyn Mason, who runs
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SCHOOLS CHIEF GOES IN 'COUP'
THE county's head of education has been sacked following last year's rumours that even more Redditch schools could merge or close. Councillor June Longmuir, who was Worcestershire County Council cabinet member for education until Thursday, described her
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Pupils to help hard-hit island
PUPILS and teachers at Woodfield Middle School have been showing their support for the tsunami appeal and have launched a fund-raising campaign. The school was visited by Sarah Barber and Tony Dineen, who live and work on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi
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Advice offered to firm
A REDDITCH landscaping firm has been told by a Birmingham Employment Tribunal chairman "to put its house in order" after a director admitted not providing a contract and wage slips to a teenage trainee gardener. Aspect Property Management, of Brockhill
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Confidence in our carers
I FEEL it is important to comment, from a personal aspect, on the excellent treatment and care I received while a patient on Ward 17 at the Alexandra Hospital, where I had surgery on both knees recently. Firstly I was delighted to be allocated a bed after
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Big thank you over lost purse
I WOULD like to say thank you to the kind gentleman who found my mother's purse and handed it in on Wednesday, January 12, at Redditch town centre post office. She was very upset when she realised it was missing and went straight back to the post office
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Arts minister to visit Palace
ARTS Minister Estelle Morris will tomorrow have a tour of the Palace Theatre ahead of a multi-million pound refurbishment of the Alcester Street venue. Ms Morris will see for herself the historic theatre's auditorium and its out-dated reception and bar
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On trial
THE trial of a woman charged with breaching a two year antisocial behaviour order has been fixed for April 21. Karen Kelly, 38, of Lodge Road, Smallwood, appeared before Redditch magistrates on Wednesday, January 12. She also appeared under a charge of
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Bus passes are not 'free'
IN response to Mrs Terry Tracey's letter regarding the reinstatement of the "free" bus pass (Advertiser, January 12), she and her colleagues should not be thanking the councillors. Give thanks to the Redditch council tax-paying general public below retirement
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Bootleggers all lined up for event
STETSONS, cowboy boots, denim skirts, chequered shirts and manic cries of "yee ha" are all things associated with line dancing - but this is an image one Redditch group claims is long in the past for its members. The Bootleggers Line-dancers started seven
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Fury as third bike stolen
MAY I, through the pages of the Advertiser, vent my anger and despair. My son's bike was once again stolen this week, although the bike had a combination lock and was attached to the stairwell bannister. The thief arrived with metal cutters at night.
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Abbeydale is now a picture
I HAVE been a long time campaigner against local antisocial behaviour. I would just like to congratulate Redditch Council and the Government for the excellent work they are undertaking within our communities. They have just started a clean-up campaign
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Letter from Westminster
ON Friday, I met campaigners who stood up for the rights of Redditch leaseholders. Several years ago, it became apparent freeholds to properties across Redditch had been sold to new owners and individuals suddenly faced huge bills to buy the freehold
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Scrap car amnesty
REDDITCH fire crews are still dealing with more car fires than any other station in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Before Christmas crews had nearly one call every night to douse car blazes according to station officer Mark Preece of Redditch Fire
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Droitwich Spa RFC First XV fixtures 2004/2005
HOME, away (Midlands Three West (South) fixtures unless stated) SEPTEMBER Sat 4 STRATFORD-UPON-AVON 22-32 Sat 11 BARKERS BUTTS 7-20 Sat 18 Bridgnorth (Powergen Intermediate Cup First Round) 22-27 Sat 25 Hereford 14-37 OCTOBER Sat 2 OLD LEAMINGTONIANS
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Mother pleads for son
A mother's plea for mercy saved her burglar son from jail when he appeared at Worcester Crown Court. Craig Ivers broke into his mother's house and stole a PlayStation from his sister's bedroom which he sold to buy heroin. He also stole four copies of
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Witness plea on accident
TWO people were taken to hospital after a serious accident in Redditch last Wednesday. Two vehicles, a red Volvo estate and a red Citroen Berlingo van, collided on Old Forge Drive near the junction with Howard Road. The driver of the Volvo, a man in his
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Alcester U3A
speaker Mr Vince Williams started the New Year with a talk and slides on his 1997 trek to K2 in the Himalayas. He went to place a plaque commemorating Mr Jeff Lakes, who died on K2 in 1995 following a terrible storm. The storm also claimed the lives of
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Robbery 'a joke'
A STUDLEY man accused of trying to rob a bus driver says the incident was just a joke, a judge at Warwick Crown Court has been told. Donald Davidson, 20, of High Street, Studley, appeared at the court for a preliminary hearing after being charged with
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Progress shown in new tables
THE 2004 GCSE school performance tables have been published - showing great improvements for many schools in the area. In Redditch, the figures show for the first time the progress of children who were educated up to GCSE entirely at their present school
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All alien
STUDENTS from Ipsley Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) have been showing their artistic talents by completing a 6ft tall wall painting of an alien landscape. Trinity High School's art department helped the youngsters, led by Derek Northam, head of expressive
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Bromsgrove Rovers fixtures and results 2004/2005
HOME, away (Dr Martens Division One West fixtures unless stated) JULY Tue 20 Stratford Town (Friendly) 1-1 (Frost) Sat 24 AFC TELFORD (Friendly) 2-1 (Szewczyk 2) Tue 27 HEDNESFORD TOWN (Friendly) 1-2 (Frost) Thu 29 KOREA UNIVERSITIES XI (Friendly) 1-4
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In-form Rowe matches the country's best riders
BROMSGROVE cyclist Joe Rowe's excellent season took another positve step as he finished in the top ten of the National Cyclo Cross Championships on Saturday. The Wellington Road rider proved he is up with the best in the country by finishing tenth overall
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Bel Canto Singers
THE choir began a busy December with their carol concert at Kingsley College. This was well supported and a donation will go to the Acorn Children's Hospice. The choir then enjoyed a pleasant evening with the Beoley Good Companions Club, followed by an
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Cookhill and District Gardening Association
THE first meeting was hugely successful with around 60 people attending and some 40 signing up to immediately join the new association. The interest and enthusiasm shown was clear and encouraging. The next meeting will take place on Monday, February 14
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Long distance runners stride into county finals
PUPILS from North Bromsgrove High School booked their place in the Worcestershire finals after a powerful display of long distance running. Michelle Vine, Richard Baughan, Katie Orme, Martin Cole, Roy Rickerby, Jason Swift, Ashley Hayward and Amy Rheeston
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Crabbs Cross & Hunt End WI
PRESIDENT Sue Lawson wished everyone a happy new year at the January 5 meeting. Hilary Taylor reported she had received a big thank you from Sure Start for the Christmas gifts sent for local children. Also a letter from Macmillan with thanks for the donation
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Grounds for success
BROMSGROVE CC want to tap into the town's rich vein of goodwill and expertise to help improve the club's St Godwalds ground as part of a national drive. The club is looking for volunteers and local businesses to lend their enthusiasm and knowledge on
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Worcester Birmingham Canal Society
THE December issue of the monthly magazine The Fifty Eight, named after the 58 locks from Tardebigge to the river Severn at Worcester, was a commemorative one to celebrate the society's 35th anniversary. Longstanding members sent in stories and memories
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Hearty effort from children
A "SMALL school with a big heart" is holding a fund-raising Indian-themed evening to help raise cash for the victims of the Asian tsunami disaster. Parents, pupils and staff at St Mary's Primary School, Pool Road, Studley, will combine their efforts on
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Drop looms for Spa
Droitwich 10 Ledbury 18 THE RELEGATION trap door swung perilously open below Droitwich after they lost this crucial match on Saturday. Defeat ensured Spa are firmly stuck at the bottom of the Midlands Division Three West (South). The result from Saturday's
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Trader quits 'dying' town
AN Alcester shopkeeper who was forced to shut up shop due to plummeting profits has branded Alcester a "dying town with no heart". Nigel Curtis, of Alcester Photographic on High Street, says younger shoppers have abandoned their town in favour of chain
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Steel feel for frieze
WORK on a "striking" steel sculpture detailing Alcester's history and heritage was completed at the weekend. Alcester Heritage Trust's steel frieze, displayed on the side of Globe House, depicts Roman symbols, a sword, jars with olives and a gold brooch
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Trust set to submit plans
HEALTH officials say they should soon be ready to submit plans for the new Alcester Hospital. There has been concern in the town that the project, which has suffered a number of setbacks, was heading for another delay. But South Warwickshire Primary Care
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Winter worry
ALCESTER'S elderly may be feeling the chill and missing out on £200 this winter, says Stratford District councillor Susan Juned. Mrs Juned said while some pensioners receive cash automatically with their state pension, others may not be aware they are
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Taking on new tasks
A SUCCESSFUL Worcestershire-based PR company is set to reach new heights in creativity with the arrival of two new account managers. Jo Dudley and Vicky Allen have recently moved into their new roles at Stoke Prior-based Haswell Holden.
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Safe zone at school
COUNCILLORS' concerns about pupils' safety if an Alcester school is extended have been allayed. Despite backing proposals to build the extension at St Nicholas' Primary School, in St Faith's Road, Alcester town council clerk Derrick Ward said Warwickshire
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Awards for social sector learners
MORE than 45 learners working in the social care sector will meet at St Andrew's House Hotel in Droitwich next week for an awards ceremony. The awards will be presented to learners who successfully participated in a radical employer training pilot which
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History help
FAMILY historians can access details of burials in Britain with a new resource available at Alcester Library. The second edition of the National Burial Index contains more than 13 million burial records from Anglican parish, non-conformist and cemetery
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MDs to benefit from county events
TWO events highlighting the benefits of becoming a business intermediary are to be held in Worcester next Tuesday, January 25. The Chamber of Commerce and Business Link Herefordshire and Worcestershire will introduce its new "Managing Director's Development
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Grant offer
ALCESTER organisations may be losing out by not applying for grants from Alcester Town Council. Council clerk Derrick Ward said he had been forced to extend the December deadline for applications due to lack of interest, despite extensive advertising.
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Celebrating their 'silver' with gifts
ONE of Worcester's biggest recruitment companies is celebrating its 25th year and is to reward two charities as a result. Staff at Hewett Recruitment is to embark on a year of fund-raising to benefit St Richard's Hospice in Worcester and Kidderminster's
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Acorns project a step nearer
THE opening of Acorns' new children's hospice in Worcester has moved a step closer following the official hand-over of the 10-bed unit. Acorns is now totally responsible for the completion of the project and the promise of residential care for some 250
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Councils praised for recycling levels
WORCESTERSHIRE County Council missed Government targets for recycling household waste by just one per cent, Environment Secretary Margaret Beckett revealed yesterday. Council chiefs recycled or composted 19 per cent of materials such as paper, compost
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Sublime and serene sensations
PIANIST Paul Lewis will be tinkling the ivories at one of the Bromsgrove Concerts on Friday, January 28. Spadesbourne Hall, in Burcot Lane, will be filled with the 'lyrical tenderness' of Paul's Beethoven playing and the second half of his performance
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Search for a star
THE hunt has begun for Worcestershire's most talented young pop artists and the stars of tomorrow are being asked to enter Pop Icon 2005, a competition to find the cream of the singing crop in our county. Youngsters between 12 and 18 are encouraged to
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Hannah's hit hopes
A BROMSGROVE girl hit the big time this week as her band reached the top twenty in the charts. Twenty-four-year-old Hannah Lewis was thrilled to discover her group, Pop!, who are being billed as the new Steps, reached the number 16 in the top 40 countdown
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High Society
CORONATION Street actress Susie Blake stars in Cole Porter's hit musical High Society at the Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday, February 1, for one week. Adapted from one of Hollywood's best loved movies, this classic musical is a giddy blend of corking
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A time to dress
THE year is 1941 and Hitler's bombs are falling on war-torn Britain. This doesn't stop 'Sir,' a redoubtable actor-manager made of the same stuff as the great Sir Henry Irving, from touring the works of Shakespeare to theatres throughout England, under
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It's a Mini-adventure
WHAT'S small and beautifully formed, cost just £695 when new 40 years ago, launched a whole generation of boy racers, beat the best in the world on the rally circuit, became an iconic movie star and helped change the face of British motoring for ever?
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Ramble round Chaddesley area
COUNTRYSIDE lovers are invited to pull on their walking boots for a gentle ramble starting in Chaddesley Corbett this coming weekend. Fairfield Ramblers will be meeting at Chaddesley Church prior to the walk, at 10am, on Saturday. Organisers say all are
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Rovers hunt for hitman
BROMSGROVE Rovers have been forced back into the transfer market to search for a new striker after Richard Burgess walked out on the club last week. Burgess ended his third spell at the club whe he stormed out of the Victoria Ground after Rovers' victory
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Sending off blights victory
Marlow 0 Bromsgrove Rovers 2 Southern League Division One West RIAD ERRAJI was hero and villain as ruthless Rovers maintained their relentless promotion pace at Oak Tree Road on Saturday. The adventurous midfielder had set Rovers on their way by opening
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Elvis rocks on!
THERE'S an opportunity to get all shook up and celebrate the life of the king of rock n' roll, Elvis Presley, at a Valentine's disco on Friday February 4. Elvis-mania has been sweeping the country of late as this year would have been the year he turned
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Surveyto give people power
THE largest survey of people in the West Midlands region since the 2001 census will start this week - and Worcestershire residents are being urged to take part. The West Midlands Regional Lifestyle Survey will ask about important topics including health
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Sublime and serene sensations
PIANIST Paul Lewis will be tinkling the ivories at one of the Bromsgrove Concerts on Friday, January 28. Spadesbourne Hall, in Burcot Lane, will be filled with the 'lyrical tenderness' of Paul's Beethoven playing and the second half of his performance
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Hannah's hit hopes
A BROMSGROVE girl hit the big time this week as her band reached the top twenty in the charts. Twenty-four-year-old Hannah Lewis was thrilled to discover her group, Pop!, who are being billed as the new Steps, reached the number 16 in the top 40 countdown
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UCW bid boosted by move
MOVES to open a second University College Worcester campus in the centre of the city have received a boost after a new storage area was found for a number of museum artefacts. The city council last night agreed to sign a 20-year agreement with the county
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Ring taken from home
A WEDDING ring and other jewellery was stolen in a burglary in Headless Cross. The ring is a man's Welsh and yellow gold wedding ring in a twisted design worth £460. A women's bracelet, worth £350, and a half gold sovereign on a gold chain worth £150
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Rovers hunt for hitman
BROMSGROVE Rovers have been forced back into the transfer market to search for a new striker after Richard Burgess walked out on the club last week. Burgess ended his third spell at the club whe he stormed out of the Victoria Ground after Rovers' victory
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TROPHY BITTER
HAD Redditch been victorious against the second best non-league football side in the country in the FA Trophy on Saturday they would have got the chance to play the best - Barnet - at home. But some things aren't to be and the fourth round draw was definitely
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Men's turn to show six appeal
REDDITCH got their league campaign back on track in style as they hit Yardley for six at Bromsgrove Road on Saturday. Redditch went six goals up before Yardley hit back with two late consolation efforts but by then it was too late for the visitors. Incisive
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Hive ready to get buzzy
STUDLEY boss Kevin Rowlands is hoping to build the Beehive into a fortress over the next few weeks as six of the next eight games the Bees face are at home. Studley start their home fixtures off with a mouth-watering tie against neighbours Bromsgrove
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Future smash!
SMASHING Webheath First School tennis stars scooped the Mini Tennis Red competition recently. The Downsell Road school pupils had to beat teams from 15 other schools across Redditch and Bromsgrove to be crowned champs. IT'S the halfway point in the men's
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Alcester CC after a catch
CRICKET: ALCESTER and Ragley Park Cricket Club will be holding winter nets on Tuesday, January 25 at Prince Henry's School in Evesham between 7-8pm. All newcomers are welcome and for more details call Ben Lee on 01789 762621.
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'Best in country'
TWO Redditch Swimming Club youngsters had a swimtastic night after meeting a few British Olympic stars at a national awards evening in Stratford Nine-year-old Daniel Strange and Michaela Britt, 10, met Olympic bronze medallist Steve Parry at Stratford
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Empty unit in spotlight
PLANNING rules may be relaxed in an attempt to lure businesses into a vacant shop at the entrance to Redditch Market - which is having an "adverse" effect on the area. The unit, in Market Walk behind Redditch Library, has been vacant since the Kingfisher
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Developer looking at village site
A NEW development of nine houses and a block of five apartments may be built in Astwood Bank. Last night, plans for the re-development of the corner of Feckenham Road and Castle Street were due to be assessed by councillors on Redditch Council's planning
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ANOTHER CITY SCHOOL IS CRUMBLING
A SCHOOL classroom block in Worcester has significant structural defects and could collapse after a heavy snowfall or strong winds. Bishop Perowne High School governors have been warned in a shock engineers' report that further study was likely to track
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Tories' outrage at MP's remarks
A WORCESTER- born Labour MP has been lambasted by the Tories for allegedly making anti-Jewish remarks in the Press. Furious Conservatives have written to the Commission for Racial Equality, asking them to investigate claims Mike O'Brien made a personal
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Body found in car after argument
A MAN was found dead in his car in the early hours of Christmas Day having attached a hosepipe to the exhaust after arguing with his wife. Ian Morris, aged 38, of Broomhall Cottages, Broomhall, was found by passerby Katrina Warner, at the Nimmings Wood
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Plea for crossing outside schools
CAMPAIGNERS for road safety measures outside Worcester schools have warned councillors to take action before "the death of a child makes you listen". Parents, pupils and teachers from Gorse Hill Primary and St George's CE Primary schools pleaded with
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Dressing up for theatre
NICHOLAS Lyndhurst and Julian Glover star in the first major revival of Ronald Harwood's The Dresser at Malvern's Festival Theatre from Monday. Inspired by the memories of his years working as Donald Wolfitt's dresser, Harwood's "evocative, perceptive
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Accident proves this road is dangerous
A ROAD collision which left two people in hospital was on the same stretch of road where a report concluded there were "potential safety problems". The crash, in Lower Broadheath, happened on Martley Road, where a resident warned last October that "an
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Savaged sheep spurs warning to dog walkers
DOG owners are being urged to keep their pets under control after a pregnant sheep was savaged so badly by a dog it had to be put down. West Mercia Police issued the warning following the incident on farmland in Colwall, near Malvern, on Saturday, January
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Veterans' effort for tsunami fund
WAR veterans helped raise funds for tsunami victims at the Worcestershire Royal British Legion annual conference at the weekend. Chairman of Worcestershire County Council, Derek Prodger, welcomed committee members, branch delegates and visitors to County
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Bring, buy
A COFFEE morning and bring and buy sale in Dines Green, Worcester, raised £632 for the victims of the Asian tsunami disaster. Irene Edwards, who helped organise the event, on Saturday, January 15, on behalf of The Residents, Friends and Neighbours of
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£1, 378 in two hours
KIND-hearted folk have helped raise a total of £1,378 for the tsunami appeal through a table-top sale in Worcester. The event took place in St Martin's Church Hall in London Road on Saturday and the amount was raised in two hours. Organiser Jacqueline
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Warriors hit by Collier setback
TIM Collier is an early doubt for Worcester Warriors' clash at Kingsholm. The Sixways lock is recovering from a pectoral muscle tear but is facing a race against time to be fit for next Saturday's Premiership derby with Gloucester. Collier has been one
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Wolves win battle for Collins
WORCESTER Wolves have finally sealed the signing of Matt Collins. The Wolves had been locked in a dispute over the point guard with Coventry because the Crusaders refused to release the player. Collins therefore missed Worcester's weekend win over Kingston
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Hick's joy at Kiwi comeback
GRAEME Hick has admitted his return to the international stage has given him a timely boost ahead of Worcestershire's season. The 38-year-old returns to international cricket after a four-year absence for three tsunami benefit games in New Zealand. The
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Transfer frustration hits Harriers
MIDFIELD targets Chris Holland and Dean Bennett have both slipped out of Kidderminster Harriers boss Stuart Watkiss' grasp. Boston United are now not willing to let ex-Newcastle United and Birmingham City starlet Holland go, while Wrexham have also insisted
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Clarke given Robins recall for cup clash
VETERAN 'keeper Tim Clarke will put the gloves on for Evesham United tonight in their Southern League Cup clash at Solihull Borough (7.45). The former Kidderminster Harriers stopper has been called back from a loan spell with Oldbury United. Regular '
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Hunting season!
JUNIOR FOOTBALL ROUND-UP: Studley Junior's under 12A beat Hunters Moon Colts 2-1 with goals from Harvey Parker and Nathan Hurley. Man of the match went to the playing 11. n Inkberrow Eagles under 11s drew with Alcester 2000 under 11s 1-1. Alcester's first
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Studley pay for poor pens
Studley Women FC 1 Marconi Ladies 1 STUDLEY Women were left to rue two penalty misses after Marconi fought back to take a point. Caroline Staples was brought down in the area but missed the spot kick and then let in Marconi to take advantage. A mix-up
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VC's shot in the arm
Redditch VC 2 Birmingham Medics 0 WOMEN'S FOOTBALL: Redditch VC got their third win on the trot against Birmingham Medics on Sunday. After a slow start Lianne Cooper finally broke the deadlock as she beat the offside trap following good work from Nat
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'It was a disgrace'
REDDITCH United chairman Pat Cremin said he will be writing to the Football Association after the "absolutely disgraceful" way the Reds fans were treated at Workington's Borough Park on Saturday. Cremin said the 150-plus fans were left to suffer the inclement
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Eason handed chance to shine
BROMSGROVE RFC coach Dean Ball has urged Ben Eason to stake a claim as the team's regular fly-half in Saturday's game at Longton after Matt Birch pulled out. The reliable kicker misses the mid-table clash in the Midlands Division One because of a back
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Drop looms for Spa
Droitwich 10 Ledbury 18 THE RELEGATION trap door swung perilously open below Droitwich after they lost this crucial match on Saturday. Defeat ensured Spa are firmly stuck at the bottom of the Midlands Division Three West (South). The result from Saturday's
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Eason handed chance to shine
BROMSGROVE RFC coach Dean Ball has urged Ben Eason to stake a claim as the team's regular fly-half in Saturday's game at Longton after Matt Birch pulled out. The reliable kicker misses the mid-table clash in the Midlands Division One because of a back
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19/1/05 - Warriors hit by Collier setback
TIM Collier is an early doubt for Worcester Warriors' clash at Kingsholm. The Sixways lock is recovering from a pectoral muscle tear but is facing a race against time to be fit for next Saturday's Premiership derby with Gloucester. Collier has been one
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No deterrent
I READ with concern the report that a Bromsgrove town centre bank was having to close its foyer at night due to repeated acts of vandalism over a period of months. The culprits were not caught or even deterred by patrolling police but it should have been
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It's principle that counts
AFTER SITTING through an extraordinary Droitwich Town Council meeting in mid- December, which was brought to agree a motion to support the lido proposals from SALT, in principle, I looked up in a dictionary the meaning of 'principle'. It states, 'a moral
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Sutton too hot for Kingfishers
Sutton Coldfield 2nds 18 Redditch 6 SUTTON Coldfield returned the friendly fixture favour on Saturday but Redditch found their hosts not in the forgiving mood. Just before Christmas the sides met at Bromsgrove Road and Redditch pummelled their guests
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Inquest opens into deaths
AN inquest into the deaths of an elderly Headless Cross couple who died after a gas explosion in their holiday apartment was opened and adjourned. Kenneth Such, 81, died on December 20 when a gas canister exploded at the flat in Tenerife. His 79-year-old
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Four-midable Holland sinks Dudley
Barnt Green Spartak 5 Dudley Sports 1 MIDFIELDER Kieron Holland showed he has fully recovered from a knee injury with a devastating show of finishing on Saturday. Holland, who has missed much of the last few years through injury, bagged four goals to
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Alcester set for crunch tie
Alcester A 22 Birmingham Medics 2nds 12 ALCESTER got a much-needed boost ahead of a crucial league encounter against fellow strugglers Old Wheats with a 10-point friendly victory over a second string Birmingham Medics side. Centre Tom Heneghan scored
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25 years ago January 11, 1980
PARENTS of youngsters in Bromsgrove who had school meals were bracing themselves for a rise in prices of up to 40p a day from April. However, schools providing a 'cafeteria' style service would be cheaper at 35p. The new charges would bring in an extra
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Still panto time
MEMBERS of Longbridge Methodist Church are extending the festive season even further by putting on a pantomime during the half-term holiday. The group is staging Puss in Boots to raise money for a charity for poor and abused women in Bolivia. Spokeswoman
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Search is beginning for theatrical talent
YOUNG shining stars from the local area are invited to join the National Youth Theatre (NYT) both in the acting and technical departments. Auditions and interviews for the West Midlands will take place in Birmingham. The theatre can offer all acting applicants
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A time to dress
THE year is 1941 and Hitler's bombs are falling on war-torn Britain. This doesn't stop 'Sir,' a redoubtable actor-manager made of the same stuff as the great Sir Henry Irving, from touring the works of Shakespeare to theatres throughout England, under
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What's on guide
Wednesday January 19 FILM: Being Julia, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. Thursday January 20 FILM: Good morning night, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. Friday January 21 TRIBUTE: Fred Zeppelin, tribute to Led Zeppelin
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It's a Mini-adventure
WHAT'S small and beautifully formed, cost just £695 when new 40 years ago, launched a whole generation of boy racers, beat the best in the world on the rally circuit, became an iconic movie star and helped change the face of British motoring for ever?
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Ramble round Chaddesley area
COUNTRYSIDE lovers are invited to pull on their walking boots for a gentle ramble starting in Chaddesley Corbett this coming weekend. Fairfield Ramblers will be meeting at Chaddesley Church prior to the walk, at 10am, on Saturday. Organisers say all are
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19/1/05 - Confidence the key to hopes of revival
TO hear that Hednesford Town have been drawn away to my former club Burton Albion in the next round of the FA Trophy just rubs salt into the wound. But you have to be in it to pass comment, so we now have to draw a line under Saturday's defeat in the
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Live wires
SORRY, E F Showell (Letters, Wednesday, January 11), if you are referring to the new harmonised domestic fixed wiring colour codes which replace the old red and black colours. I must inform him that they are brown for live, blue for neutral and green/
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Running for fine cause
MANY people who had set their hearts on running in this year's London Marathon will have heard before Christmas that they had not been lucky enough to gain a place in the ballot that is held. There are, however, still a few guaranteed places available
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Spadesbourne Ladies Club
As no minutes were taken, or read, at the Christmas party meeting, there were none to be read in January, which speeded up the business meeting considerably. Joan English reported a forthcoming trip with Brian Draper, in May, to Ross on Wye, Chepstow,
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Politicians and faceless officers
I FEEL I must respond to John Hinton's letter (Evening News, Monday, January 10). First, the "factions" and "unelected pressure groups" to which he refers are parents (and taxpayers in St John's) who like me care about their community and have children
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The chips are down
TOWNSFOLK have the chance to be a millionaire for the night while raising money for the Leukaemia Research Fund. Fundraiser Nicole Harris is hosting a fun casino evening at Bromsgrove Rugby Club, in Finstall Road, on Friday, February 4. Budding high-rollers
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Millfields to hold sale
PUPILS at Millfields First School will be joining the rest of the schools in the district in a special fundraising day for the tsunami appeal on Friday. Children are bringing in toys and books to be sold in a sale, which will raise money for the tsunami
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Tot was killed in cold-blood
A wicked couple, who "cold-bloodedly" killed a little boy after rejecting him as suitable for adoption, are beginning five year jail sentences. Wealthy Ian and Angela Gay were warned by social services that three-year-old Christian Blewitt had emotional
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Office plan is a 'glass monster'
PLANS to construct new office blocks in Belbroughton have been put on hold after the new buildings were labelled a "glass monstrosity." Members of Bromsgrove District Council's planning committee asked the architect to have another go at the designs because
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Centre could close
A DAY centre, which provides a vital lifeline for elderly people in Catshill and the surrounding area, will close if helpers do not come forward. The community day centre, which is based in the hall of the Baptist Church on Milton Road, was set up to
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Burglars are behind bars
TWO prolific Bromsgrove burglars, who often preyed on the elderly and vulnerable, have been put behind bars. Adrian Sharp, aged 38, and 43-year-old Martin Bradley, both from the Rock Hill area, were sentenced to seven and five years respectively after
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Tots get a taste of Africa
TOTS at a Droitwich Spa school were whisked off to central Africa during an exciting workshop. Youngsters from Cutnall Green First School, in School Road, welcomed a couple of African women last Wednesday. The visitors showed the children a range of exotic
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The competition hots up...
A SIZZLING Spa super chef is cooking up a storm in a national catering competition. Josephine Banks, a pupil at Whitford Hall and Dodderhill School, will represent Worcestershire in the regional final of Springboard UK FutureChef 2005 contest. Josephine
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New recruits wanted to help raise vital cash
ENTHUSIASTIC residents who are brimming with bright ideas are being urged to join a fundraising friendship group. Faith Harper is recruiting new members to her group, which raises much-needed funds for the British Institute of Brain Injured Children (
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Final decision on Lido is due
A FINAL decision on Droitwich Spa's historic Lido must be made before Wychavon District Council sets its annual budget, a civic leader has said. Town councillor Peter Pinfield (Lab- East) is urging the district council to make up its mind on the fate
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19/1/05 - Hick's joy at Kiwi comeback
GRAEME Hick has admitted his return to the international stage has given him a timely boost ahead of Worcestershire's season. The 38-year-old returns to international cricket after a four-year absence for three tsunami benefit games in New Zealand. The
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Shocked by today's language
I WAS interested in my friend Tom Wareing's letter (Advertiser, January 12) regarding the use of obscenities in today's society. Tom and I both, as part of our early building trade training, served on building sites where the use of obscenities was the
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Hawk happy to be home
THE desperate hunt for a five-month-old hawk which escaped its Studley aviary during the recent gales ended happily after an emotional reunion with its owners. And Frey, an orphaned Harris hawk, hand-reared by Diane and John Howe, of Allendale Crescent
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Man is arrested
POLICE arrested a man in Acocks Green on suspicion of burglary and robbery following incidents in Wythall and Alvechurch yesterday morning. The first occurred at about 12.30am in Ann Road, Wythall, when burglars smashed their way through the front door
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Blessings for church land
STUDLEY Parish Church celebrated a unique weekend in its history when the Bishop of Coventry consecrated the village's new churchyard extension. The Rt Rev Colin Bennetts was joined by members of the parish council and other villagers as he consecrated
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Family's tribute to a loving man
FAMILY tributes have been paid to an Ipsley businessman who lived life to the full and threw himself with gusto into his many hobbies and interests. Paul McGahan, 57, of Upper Hall Close, died when his Citroen C5 was in collision with a coach on the A6006
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Lark lands top award
A STUDLEY pub has scooped a top award for the quality of its fine ales, delicious food and popular beer festivals. The Little Lark was named Warwickshire Pub of the Year for 2004 by the Redditch and Bromsgrove branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA
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Festive food
ON behalf of the staff and residents of Step Out Drop In Ltd, can I thank the landlord/lady and the customers of the Oast House pub in Papermill Drive for their kind donation of food over the Christmas period. As a homeless charity, we are always grateful
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A magic show at the Palace
WOW! What a fabulous show. I have lived in Redditch for 62 years and during my youth frequented the Palace in all its guises, from cinema to roller skating rink. To my shame, I have chosen over the past few years to snobbishly disregard the Christmas
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Rocking radio listeners
A REDDITCH band is riding the radio waves of success after landing a slot on Kerrang Radio's breakfast show. Animotorso, a four-piece alternative rock act, have been invited to play four tracks from their forthcoming album on Monday. The band - Ben Davidson
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Thanks for helping cat
MAY I, through your newspaper, thank the person or persons who took my much-loved young cat, found at Ridings Lane on Boxing Day, to the Southcrest Veterinary Service. Unfortunately, the cat did not survive. If they would wish to contact me to be thanked
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New date
THE sentencing of Glyn Dix, who stabbed and dismembered his wife Hazel Dix in June last year, has been adjourned until February 23. Judge Mr Justice Wilkie, sitting at Birmingham Crown Court last Wednesday, made the decision after hearing Dix, 50, is
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Mast builders get the message
AN angry worker at an Alvechurch company told contractors to "clear off" neighbouring land when they turned up to erect a mobile telephone mast. And Paul Theakston, of Automotive Garage Equipment, Lye Bridge Business Park, said he would continue to block
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Nature watch
YOUNG people with an interest in wildlife are being invited to join the Arrow Valley WATCH Club. As part of the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust the club aims to let children from the borough find out more about the environment in a fun and exciting way.
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CSOs are welcomed
JACQUI Smith MP has welcomed new community safety officers and the pledge of more to come to help in the fight against crime. The government has provided funding for an additional 12 CSOs for West Mercia and the force is also in negotiations with Redditch
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Families escape house blaze
THE cause of a serious house fire which left two Studley families homeless has yet to be discovered. The fire, in Eldorado Close, off High Street, last Wednesday, started about 7.30am in the morning, the family being alerted by a smoke alarm in the hallway
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Musical marvels
A MUSICAL extravaganza takes place at a Redditch church next week and all the cash raised will help two good causes. And organisers promise there will be something to suit all musical tastes at the event on Friday, January 28. St George's Church, St George's
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Look of love for museum
FORGE Mill Museum kicks off its new season with an exhibition looking at romantic love through an exceptional collection of Victorian Valentine cards. The exhibition will look at how and why the tradition began, who sent the first card and whether people
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Bromsgrove edge second place
BROMSGROVE Swimming Club won the race for second place in the opening round of the Worcester League Division One on Saturday. Up against a strong Worcester team at home Bromsgrove were always going to be vying for the runners-up spot - which they sealed
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Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA)
ALE aficionados flocked to the Little Lark in Studley and to the Hollybush in Alcester on December 15 to try the first Kils (9 gallon barrels) of Black Rock Bitter from Islay Ales, the micro-brewery founded last summer by Paul Capper and Paul Hathaway
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Dolphins come third
DEPLETED Droitwich Spa Dolphins finished third in the Worcester Winter League on Saturday. Despite injuries and illness preventing many swimmers from competing Spa produced a battling display to finish behind leaders Perry Beeches A and Redditch. Fiona
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Leaders lose that winning feeling against rugged Rugeley
Rugeley 1st XI 0 Droitwich 1st XI 0 TABLE topping Droitwich found resolute Rugeley a tough nut to crack as their winning run in the West Midlands Hockey League Division One West came to an end on Saturday. Despite considerable pressure by the visitors
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Gloucestershire-Warwickshire Railway
THE first half of this season of meetings organised by the Redditch & Alcester Group of the GWR finished on a high note with Richard Icke giving a very professional presentation of a slide show Steam on the Cambrian. As well as a fine selection of
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Late winner stuns Boars
Bromsgrove 1st XI 3 Whitchurch 1st XI 4 LEAKY Bromsgrove allowed a two goal lead slip through their fingers as promotion chasing Whitchurch grabbed a late winner in the West Midlands Hockey League Division One on Saturday. The Boars had powered into a
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Hollywood WI
AT the first meeting this year, Tony Caldwell gave a talk about his coast-to-coast walk from Robin Hood's Bay to St Bees. His talk was very detailed and accompanied by delightful slides of his journey with a group of friends. The meeting was chaired by
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Kington with Dormston WI
MEMBERS were welcomed to the December meeting with a glass of punch prepared by president Delice Bayliss. After the minutes were read and approved, a board went round with the Annual Dinner menu - to be held in January at The Boot. This month, skittles
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Shaw can't save Cofton
COFTON A went down to Lickey Monarchs 7-3 in the Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis League Division One - despite a fine performance by Gordon Shaw. Shaw won all three of Cofton's matches but Hardman, Wood and Clarke won two each and the doubles for
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The Redditch Society
THE January 4 talk took the form of a Gardener's Question Time with answers supplied by Mike George and Reg Moule of BBC Hereford & Worcester. Members brought items from their gardens, some for identification and others that were showing signs of
