Archive

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Bennett at his very best

Review: The Lady In The Van at the Festival Theatre, Malvern, until Saturday. ON a number of occasions I have remarked how lucky we are in Worcestershire that the Festival Theatre attracts such quality productions. Sometimes we get shows before they head

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Trio treat at society

REDDITCH Music Society's next concert is on Saturday when The Montpellier String Trio performs music by Mozart, Beethoven, Francaix and Schubert. Formed in 1995 by members of the City of Birmingham Orchestra, the Trio comprises violinist Marcus Barcham-Stevens

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Rock on, Tommy!

Birmingham Hippodrome plays host to the premiere of a new production of The Who's hit rock musical Tommy from February 16-26. Tommy, starring Jonathan Wilkes, is the story of a deaf, dumb and blind kid who endures a life of torment and ridicule until

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Arty meetings

MEMBERS of Lickey Hill Arts Society have a jam-packed year ahead of them with monthly meetings at the parish hall, on Rose Hill, from 7.30pm. The meetings are held on the first Saturday of the month, while subscriptions are £10 for individuals or £15

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Cool crowd

WORLD class ice-skating in the intimacy of the theatre is brought to Birmingham Hippodrome next week. The Imperial Ice Stars will perform Sleeping Beauty on Ice from February 8-12. Behind the scenes, preparation will build an ice-rink that will see a

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The Chemical Brothers Push The Button

THE faultless superstar DJs are back with another block rockin' beat after three years in the dance wilderness. Despite the hits of Star Guitar and It Began In Afrika on their last work Come With Us, the album could be classed as a below-par performance

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No need to panic

BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackey believes it is too early for the club to start panicking over the team's poor run of results. Despite losing three games in a week, manager Jimmy Mullen's worst run of results since he joined in November

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County success

CHILDREN from Bromsgrove Tennis Club served up a treat at the Hildon County Cup in Corby. The eight strong under-10s county team took maximum points to ensure that Hereford and Worcester stay top of Division Three. The team, made up of six players from

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Band does the double

TOP rockers The Reflections will give their fans a treat when they perform two Bromsgrove gigs in as many weeks. The group will be at the Hop Pole Inn, Birmingham Road, this Friday and at the Queen's, in Stoke Wharf, the following Friday, February 11.

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Concert

CHORAL music fans are in for a treat with Droitwich Concert Club's next concert this Saturday. The club will welcome the Worcester Cathedral Choir together with Adrian Lucas who, as well as being Master of the Choristers, is Director of the Worcester

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Dreams come true for disabled

A BRAND new extension to Worcester Snoezelen will be officially opened today, providing more leisure opportunities for people with disabilities. Even those with extremely limited movement can make music in the high-tech music room, which is suitable for

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Epilepsy advice in Worcester

EPILEPSY specialist nurses can get their hands on new information on the illness - thanks to the Worcester branch of a charity that supports people with the condition. Epilepsy Action is giving free copies of its latest patient information material -

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Barred

BURGLARS have stolen a lorry containing about £32,000 worth of brass bars from a Bidford industrial plant. The white Renault twin- axled lorry, towing a blue curtain-sided trailer, was stolen overnight between January 17 and 18. It had been parked at

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Village shop raided

A STORE manager in Wootton Wawen was threatened by intruders who broke into his shop early Friday morning. The two men, with scarves covering their faces, used a crowbar in an attempt to force the door of the General Stores in Stratford Road. When the

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Church concert

ALCESTER Ladies Choir will perform in St Nicholas Church on Friday night to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. The choir will be joined by a saxophone quintet and four solo intrumentalists for an evening of light and classical music. The concert

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Charity boost

A CHARITY set up by a former Alcester man has handed over another £1,000 to the cancer ward at Coventry's Walsgrave Hospital. Edmund Boehm died in 1992 aged just 25 but set up the fund in appreciation of the help and care he received. His mother Sheila

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Rovers sunk by brilliant Ball's brace

29/01/05 Evesham United 2 Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Southern League Division One West ROVERS' promotion hopes suffered a severe dent as striker Richard Ball's brace settled a feisty Worcestershire derby at Common Road. The home side were lucky to have 11 men

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Hammer threat to PO driver

A POST office driver was threatened with a hammer after two cars boxed in his van in Hopwood in an early morning robbery. The driver was forced to stop near the Westmead Hotel on the A441 at about 3am last Wednesday morning. One man threatened him with

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No need to panic

01/02/05 BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackey believes it is too early for the club to start panicking over the team's poor run of results. Despite losing three games in a week, manager Jimmy Mullen's worst run of results since he joined

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Praise when it is due

HEALTH stories are never far from the headlines. From cleanliness to staff safety, it seems as though the NHS is never out of the news. As a community newspaper, it is our responsibility to report on all aspects of our health service, both good and bad

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WASPs make a splash

REDDITCH Swimming Club members joined a 40-strong team that splashed down at a sports development camp in Worcester recently. The event, organised by the University College Worcester based WASP (Worcestershire All Sports Partnership) team, saw the children

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'Smacked in the face'

THE chairman of Workington Town's supporters club has hit back at negative comments made about their ground facilities after the Reds clashed with Carlisle in the FA Trophy two weeks ago claiming "it wasn't their fault". Reds chairman Pat Cremin called

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Jamie ready for England

ST AUGUSTINE'S High School pupil Jamie Holloway started training with England Academy this week at Worcester RFC. The 15-year-old went for trials at the Six Ways club as part of their elite player development and passed with flying colours. Now the teenage

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Support through sharing

A NEW self-help group at the Primrose Hospice and Cancer Help Centre aims to offer support for people who have experienced bereavement through cancer. It aims to provide a safe environment for discussion and mutual support in the quiet and informal surroundings

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Parking on the agenda

A NEW "decriminalised parking" scheme could be introduced in Redditch, handing powers of enforcement from the police to Redditch Council and Worcestershire County Council. Redditch Council's executive committee will look at the proposals tonight, which

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Ricketts harms Reds progress

Redditch United 1 Hucknall Town 1 HUCKNALL spoilt the Valley party in the last minute with an equalising goal courtesy of Gary Ricketts. The Reds had gripped tightly onto their slim 33-minute lead courtesy of Norman Sylla but were undone by a simple free

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Success in 'Wich hunt

WOMEN'S HOCKEY: Redditch Ladies are going through a purple patch after yet another victory this time beating second placed Droitwich 2-1. The Bromsgrove Road Ladies who have now won their last three on the trot netted a goal in each half to settle the

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2/2/05 - Boddy poised to name new City manager

WORCESTER City chairman Dave Boddy has picked out his man to succeed John Barton -- but is holding firm not to name the club's new manager until tomorrow afternoon. A press conference has been arranged at St George's Lane when Barton's successor will

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Church chase is fruitful

Chasetown 1 Alvechurch 4 THE Churchmen toppled top of the table Chasetown in their own backyard thanks to a double from Brett Fitzpatrick. Alvechurch went behind to a Steve Ball goal on 27 minutes but Simon Redhead equalised for the visitors five minutes

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Sleeping Beauty skates in

BIRMINGHAM'S Hippodrome Theatre will be transformed with the building of an ice-rink when The Imperial Ice Stars arrive on Tuesday to perform the magical Sleeping Beauty on Ice. Fourteen thousand litres of water will be pumped into the theatre, together

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LADY VICAR USED TO BE A MAN

A WOMAN priest has revealed she was ordained nearly 20 years after she underwent a sex-change operation. Sarah Jones, aged 43, has been a curate for the past six months - but her parishioners did not know until Monday that she led a former life as a man

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Hospitals on target to slash waiting lists to six months

PATIENTS will have to wait no longer than six months for operations at Worcestershire's hospitals from March, it has been revealed. Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Kidderminster Hospital, and the Alexandra, in Redditch, are all on target to slash nine-month

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GP centre hailed 'best in country'

A STATE-of-the-art GP centre in Worcester has been branded "best in the country" by the Government's Health Minister. Dr Stephen Ladyman visited the £2m Henwick Halt Medical Centre yesterday to meet staff and patients and look round the facilities - and

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Hair we go...pain pulls in pennies

A GROUP of brave teachers at a Worcester school had a hair-raising experience this week - as they took part in a sponsored leg-wax for the tsunami disaster appeal. A total of seven male lecturers and two Year 11 students - Chris Kwiecien and Paul Burton

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Battle to save the Droitwich Lido lost

CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save Droitwich's historic Lido last night lost their battle to reopen the derelict pool. A sad day for the town is how SALT - Save a Lido Today - reacted to Wychavon District Council's executive board's decision not to support

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Cathedral will host exhibition of The Journey paintings

PAINTINGS by an internationally acclaimed religious artist, Peter Clare, will be on show in Worcester Cathedral in the run up to Easter. His acclaimed cycle of paintings called The Journey has already been shown in 15 other English cathedrals and churches

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Top chef sniffs out nouvelle cuisine in county

FINE dining will be on the menu in Malvern if a chef whose restaurant was rated among the top 20 in the world fulfils his dream of moving to the town. Shaun Hill, currently chief patron of the renowned Merchant House restaurant which put Ludlow on the

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Thinking of playing up like Bart? Think again

PARENTS and teachers in Worcestershire have welcomed new guidelines to take a tough line on disruptive pupils. Education Secretary Ruth Kelly yesterday said that improvements had been made tackling serious bad behaviour but "low-level disruption" - such

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Boddy poised to name new City manager

WORCESTER City chairman Dave Boddy has picked out his man to succeed John Barton -- but is holding firm not to name the club's new manager until tomorrow afternoon. A press conference has been arranged at St George's Lane when Barton's successor will

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Row rewards handed over to stalwarts

TWO rowing enthusiasts have been honoured for their dedication to the sport. Mark Perkins, from Malvern Link, and Stourport's Fred Caswill scooped prizes at the Amateur Rowing Association's annual awards ceremony. He was named senior club rowing coach

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Villa no show

STUDLEY Women were forced to abandon their game with Fairfield Villa as the visitors had insufficient players. The first team again have no planned game on Saturday but return on February 13 to play Knowle at the Beehive (KO 2pm). n Studley Women reserves

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REDS BOSS STAYS

ROD Brown has ended any speculation he is about to quit Redditch United for Worcester City. The Reds manager revealed to the Advertiser that he wanted to remain loyal to the club and fans as United charge for the Nationwide Conference North play-offs.

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Churchill ready for mid-table battle

EXPERIENCED Bromsgrove RFC campaigner Tom Churchill is expected to be fit for Saturday's mid-table clash at Luctonians. It was feared the rugged player would miss Saturday's game with a broken cheek bone after he was stamped on the head during the draw

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Boars held by Lichfield

Bromsgrove U7s 30 Lichfield U7s 30 James Taylor touched down four times, while Johnathon Howcroft and Tom Morris also scored for the Boars. Bromsgrove U7s 25 Lichfield U7s 20 Tom Brehaut, Howcroft, Lewis and Harry Lloyd-Jones scored for Bromsgrove in

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Society calls on developers to treat Rubery plans with care

OVER the years the Lickey Hills Society has sought to protect, conserve and improve the Lickey Hills area and the surrounding villages. The society entered into discussions with a number of councillors, developers and others in an effort to prevent piecemeal

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On your feet!

WE are writing to ask all infant and primary schools in the Bromsgrove and Droitwich area to join us and take part in 'Little Feet, Big Feat' - a brand new schools initiative to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The charity is looking for 150,000

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Cat food

THE Christmas Food Collection which was made on behalf of the Worcester and District Cats Protection has now come to a close and we would like to say a very big thank you to the public for their amazing generosity, Also to Morrisons, Droitwich, and Townsend

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Great effort

ON behalf of the Royal British Legion- Aston Fields Branch, I would like to thank Morrison's Supermarket for their hospitality and kindness in allowing us to collect during the Poppy Appea and with special thanks to Lyn Hancox and Shelley. May I also

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No need to panic

BROMSGROVE Rovers' assistant manager Bernard Mackey believes it is too early for the club to start panicking over the team's poor run of results. Despite losing three games in a week, manager Jimmy Mullen's worst run of results since he joined in November

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MP welcomes ID cards

REDDITCH MP Jacqui Smith welcomed fellow minister John Spellar to town recently as they promoted the controversial idea of national ID cards which the Government is determined to introduce. Ms Smith said: "ID cards will help the police fight crime. They

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Maguire seals place in final

Droitwich Spa 2 Littleton 0 RICHARD Maguire's double dumped Littleton out of the Worcestershire Junior Cup and booked a clash with Bewdley in the final on Saturday. Maguire struck twice in the first half as Midland Combination Division Two Droitwich knocked

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Eagles lets fly

Birmingham CS 3 Kings Norton 13 WITH both Redditch and Stourbridge Lions going down to shock defeats Kings Norton regained North Midlands One top spot. Norton made just one change to the side who were closely beaten by Stourbridge but still were made

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Extra time stunner

Bromsgrove Rovers Reserves 2 Rushall Olympic Reserves 3 TEN MAN Rovers were knocked out of the Challenge Trophy quarter-finals by a goal in extra-time. Rovers were always facing an uphill struggle after striker Thomas was sent off early in the second

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Alcester Har-buried!

Alcester 15 Harbury 29 A BELOW par Alcester performance let in Harbury to complete a league double over the Kings Coughton side on Saturday. The Alcestrians dominated territory in the opening 10 minutes and took the lead through Scott Carmichael's first

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Squires beats leaders

Coton Green 1 Droitwich Spa Reserves 2 DEFENDER Ian Squires' goal gave Spa a victory over the Midland Combination Division Three leaders on Saturday. With the game evenly balanced the centre-back's 40-yard free-kick decieved Green's goalkeeper and made

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25 years ago February 1, 1980

THE first major spending cut backs of the new decade were made when Bromsgrove District Council was forced to virtually half its £719,500 'shopping' budget. Among the casualties were changing rooms for football pitches at Charford, improved facilities

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50 years ago February 5, 1955

A LANDMARK that had stood in Bromsgrove for 97 years looked set to be bulldozed. It was the old, unmodernised cemetery lodge that had been built along with the lych gate near Crabtree Lane by an Evesham firm for £989. At the time, the design of the cemetery

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100 years ago February 4, 1905

GUARDIANS at Bromsgrove workhouse had been forced to re-advertise in the Messenger for a cook after having no applicants for the job when an advert had previously appeared. However, they were more hopeful after increasing the salary by £4 to £24 per year

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Society calls on developers to treat Rubery plans with care

OVER the years the Lickey Hills Society has sought to protect, conserve and improve the Lickey Hills area and the surrounding villages. The society entered into discussions with a number of councillors, developers and others in an effort to prevent piecemeal

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Volunteers

I WOULD like to thank all the magnificent volunteers whose hard work has helped to kick start the Year of the Volunteer 2005. January was Health Month and across the country nearly 80 projects and events attracted new volunteers and helped raise the profile

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Sad tale

REGARDING the dreadful case of the former Bromsgrove couple who killed that lovely little boy they supposedly adopted and now the true mother wishes she could turn the clock back. Well, I am sorry, but what good is that now? That poor boy won't grow up

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Results not good enough

THE recent announcement of how all high schools and colleges had done nationally against each other in terms of attainment and achievement throws up some interesting observations if you look at the details. Although recognising there had been a slight

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Following the Pied Piper to open night

TALENTED thespians are invited to an open night for Bromsgrove drama group All and Sundry on Tuesday at the Peace Hall in Rowney Green. The friendly group is always looking for new members but this time it is looking for actors and singers who can help

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Boars let lead slip

Bromsgrove 25 Derby 25 LEAKY Bromsgrove lost a 17 point lead as 14-man Derby battled back to take a share of the points in a pulsating match at Finstall Park on Saturday. The Boars had powered into a 25-8 lead but withered under increasing pressure from

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Nick's got it covered!

A WYTHALL carpet-fitter is enjoying success after winning a prestigious award in carpet laying. Carpet specialist Nick Hood, of Hood's Carpet and Flooring, was selected to take part in the European Floor Covering Championships in Germany last month. He

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Tow be or not tow be

TOP towing tips for caravanners are available at the National Boat, Caravan and Outdoor Show 2005 at Birmingham's NEC between February 19 and 27. Visitors will be given the opportunity to hitch up and tow a caravan on the roads around the NEC as part

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Classic sports cars to go on show

ALL MANNER of classic sports cars will be on show at the International Motorsport Show at Coventry's Stoneleigh Park between February 25 and 27. Lover of historic cars should step on the gas if they want to see 200 competition cars and 600 exhibitors

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Chemicals

WITH reference to the European Union's proposals to use animals for the testing of chemicals for safety, George Cowley says that as the chemicals have mostly been around for years, and have a track record for safety (Letters, Friday, January 21) then

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Wychbold Women's Fellowship

WE met for our last meeting of 2004 in the warmth of the Poplars and our excellently supported bring and buy table raised £60 for Upton Warren Church Appeal funds. We all enjoyed this pleasantly relaxed get-together, exchanging news and views, and taking

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I'll reply to all of them

n MAY I reply to various correspondents. First, Mark Starr (Letters, Thursday, January 20). I do not suggest that a West Midland Regional government would be ideal. However, a county representation of four in 161 would be an improvement proportionally

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They are no substitute for police

YOUR item (Evening News, Monday, January 24) referring to Community Support Officers and their task of walking the beat to deal with "quality of life" issues and provide reassurance to the public needs to be challenged. There is little evidence to support

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Chaddesley Corbett Gardeners' Club

WE started off the New Year with a resurrected lease of life. How to propagate all types of hard wood cuttings and berries were demonstrate to us by Bob Hares, an RHS advisor. We were eager to go home and start right now as this is the time to do hard

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They're switched on

A special needs school in Bromsgrove is celebrating being the first in the county to get a coveted award for its use of computer facilities. Chadsgrove School, on Meadow Road, Catshill, was awarded the Naacemark award for excellence in its use of information

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What's cooking?

BUDDING Jamie Olivers enjoyed a cooking masterclass. More than 100 year ten food technology students from South Bromsgrove High School got some top tips from 15 local employers. The youngsters learnt all about food processing, packaging, promotion, marketing

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Half a century of law

A WELL-known solicitor, who has been practising for 50 years, has been honoured for his long service and involvement in the community. Gordon Jones, of Gordon Jones & Company, Rubery, was presented with a certificate yesterday (Tuesday) after 50 years

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History in a bottle

WHEN Margaret Lammas re-discovered a mystery bottle she had kept for over 35 years, she became determined to find out its history. The 70-year-old, from Fockbury Mill Lane, Bromsgrove, first kept the medicine bottle when she worked at TW Austins chemist

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Unique photographic record to go on display

A PROJECT to take local history to the pubs, clubs and village halls of Bromsgrove has won a £20,000 local heritage initiative grant. Photographs of Bromsgrove people taken between 1897 and 1908, along with shots of the town, are to go on display. More

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Going Postal Error! Unknown switch argument. Terry Pratchett

Published by Doubleday £17.99 Moist Von Lipwig, aka Albert Spangler a con artist and fraudster, can choose between being hanged or taking charge of Ankh-Morpork's ailing near extinct postal service. It's a tough decision. Can he revive the post offices

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Domestic violence - help is at hand

victims of domestic violence often suffer silently, too afraid to take action. But these victims are now being offered a way out of the harsh reality of domestic violence, thanks to a special Bromsgrove-based unit and new legislation. Recent alterations

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Winter looks set to make a return

WINTER is set to make a spectacular return to Bromsgrove at the end of the week as health and highways chiefs prepare for the worst weather for more than a decade. Forecasters are preparing for an Arctic blast and warn that the cold snap will set in for

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Club strikes it lucky

THE organiser of a new matchstick modelling club may just have struck it lucky with a generous offer of materials. Terry Hickman could not believe it when he was offered a supply of matches from David Drew, a member of the British Matchbox and Booklet

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Tackling anti social behaviour

A DROITWICH Spa housing group has employed a specialist officer to deal with complaints of anti social behaviour. Alan Moorhouse, of the Spa Housing Association, announced at the Westlands Forum meeting last week that Joanne Smith would now be dealing

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Raising cash for victims

ASPIRING Kylies or Robbies have been strutting their stuff at a Worcester school to raise money for the Asian Tsunami appeal. Pupils at Warndon Primary School, in Cranham Drive, held a Stars in their Eyes talent show as part of a fund-raising campaign

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Rooster Rooster

Poor old Luke Potashnick - the Rooster guitarist just can't get a look in! While there can be no doubting the excellent vocal capacity of frontman Nick Atkinson, the band's debut album would have been so much better had he given his right-hand man a little

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wishband appeal: Just £1.50 will show you care

Hallow Primary is the latest school to raise money for the tsunami appeal. A bring-and-buy sale of toys and books raised the majority of the £739, together with a raffle - and pupils also clubbed together their own pocket money. "The children were really

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White Noise (15)

White Noise contains all the necessary elements demanded from the horror film - jumpy popcorn-throwing moments, tension and enough (at times, too much) of the unknown to get the imagination into gear. The film kicks off on an eerie note with the sudden

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How you can join Chris Tarrant and thousands of other people

THE Wishband message is stretching far and wide as enquiries and reservations come in from all over the country. Thousands of our aquamarine rubber wristbands, embossed with "Tsunami - Funding a Future", have already been ordered, raising thousands of

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Letter from Westminster

THE election in Iraq at the weekend was a triumph of democracy over terror. The commitment of the Iraqi people to vote despite the blood- curdling threats from terror groups was very moving to see. To introduce democracy from scratch in a war zone and

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Heart aplenty

My comments on shops (Chronicle, January 19) have been taken by some as an attack on the whole of Alcester and its people. I spoke of the High Street as being the heart of the town, meaning if shops are not supported the centre or heart could die - thus

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Clean-up under way

RESIDENTS were facing an horrendous clean-up operation when a sewer burst in Dolben Lane, Winyates, yesterday morning. A drain started overflowing at about 11.30am and water and raw sewage flooded into at least three homes along the road. Resident Joan

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Letter - Character galore

Alcester is an active town with a lively community feel and a lot of heart. It is an architectural gem with bags of character both physically and of the human variety! Community-minded Alcestrians love the town and work hard with numerous organisations

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Bobbies may be back on bikes

REDDITCH bobbies might be back on their bikes if police secure funding for an initiative. Though the plans are in the early stages, they could eventually mean the return of the traditional bobby on a bike in Redditch town centre. Officers have been using

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Letter - Just capital!

SO at last we are going to recognise the humble bicycle for what it truly is - a convenient and cheap means of transport, a leisure 'tool', a way of keeping fit and the key to a whole new world of cycle sport. When the planned pedestrianisation of Alcester

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Tougher law on violence in home

REDDITCH'S Police Domestic Violence Unit has welcomed changes in the law which will make it easier to prosecute offenders. The unit, led by DS Mike Patz was set up six months ago specifically for Redditch, Bromsgrove and Kidderminster, and has a detective

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On the buses for launch

THE new multi-million pound fleet of Redditch buses was launched with a fanfare on Friday in Redditch town centre. The 19 new buses were bought after a £2.5 million investment by travel company First, Worcestershire County Council, and an "Urban Bus Challenge

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Crash husband spared prison

A DRINK-driver's wife was badly injured when he crashed his car after leaving a pub, Worcester Crown Court heard. Gary Dolloway, aged 35, of Perryfields Close, Redditch, drank up to eight pints of shandy in Bromsgrove and was advised by friends not to

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Off to a sure start

THE Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport saw that Redditch children had a sure start when she popped into the Sandycroft Centre. During her visit to the West Avenue facility, Tessa Jowell visited the newly converted multicultural library, furnished

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Barriers are broken down

BARRIERS are being broken down between Wythall's police and the area's youngsters, say village police. Beat manager Pc Mark Townsend said young people were approaching him regularly to discuss the Section 30 Order, which is aimed at tackling antisocial

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Redditch's tribute to victims of Holocaust

REDDITCH stopped to remember the victims of the Holocaust and other human rights abuses on Saturday. The town held its own Holocaust Memorial ceremony following the official Holocaust Memorial Day last Thursday. This year was especially poignant since

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Man cleared of flat arson

A factory worker has been cleared by a jury of setting ablaze a mentally ill man's flat in Redditch. Thomas Goddard laid the blame for the £23,000 fire on his former girlfriend Emma Cooke in his evidence to Worcester Crown Court. He claimed the pair broke

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Race seeking worthy cause

ORGANISERS of a 10km race and fun run are looking for Redditch charities to come forward to be nominated for next year's event. The first Redditch race and fun run, which took place last year, was a huge success and raised more than £1,300 for youth drama

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Warning over 'winning' mail

A WARNING has been issued to people who receive letters offering them cash prizes. A Worcestershire Trading Standards spokesman said letters notifying people of their "awards" were often fraudulent and should be discarded immediately. She said: "Any letter

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Songs to raise notes!

ARROW Vale Singers will be holding an evening of musical entertainment to raise funds for a popular town charity. The Where Next Association, off Easemore Road, is celebrating its 21st anniversary. It was established by a small group of parents, teachers

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Badgers bare teeth in defeat

Bromsgrove Badgers 3 Kings Heath Pickwick Badgers 4 Bromsgrove opened the scoring through Jack Humby, before Kings Heath hit back with two goals. Joe Banks made it 2-2 just before half time and Vick Hawkins put Bromsgrove ahead just after the break. However

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Battling ladies go down in derby

Redditch Ladies 1st XI 2 Droitwich Spa Ladies 1st XI 1 A LATE goal ensured Spa gave Redditch a fright in a strongly contested Worcestershire League clash on Saturday. Hannah Weston's goal had handed Spa hope after the home side had went 2-0 up with some

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League wins county title

BROMSGROVE and Redditch League officials were celebrating after a representative team clinched its first County League Championship since 1968. The team of Pat McCabe, Mark Fiddian, Sasha Grokotov and Mike Kendall beat opposition from all over Worcestershire

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Bounce back

A THRILLING comeback ensured Bromsgrove took a huge step towards defending their Wessex League title. Bromsgrove came from 42-34 down against main title rivals Mid-Glos to win 83-66. Victory means Bromsgrove are closing in on a place in the national play-offs

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Swimmers learn off record ace

TOP British swimmer Alex Scotcher gave advice to members of Droitwich Dolphins at a special development camp. Scotcher, part of the quartet who hold the 4x100 metre freestyle British record, spoke to swimmers aged between 10 and 12-years-old on how to

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Revamp plan for scruffy tueries

ADVANTAGE Alcester is to spend £100,000 on public art work for three of the town's alleyways. The alleyways, or tueries, form main access routes to High Street from Bull's Head Yard and Gas House Lane and have been criticised for being dark and uninviting

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Hit the trail for real ale

THE pubs of Redditch, Bromsgrove and the surrounding area form part of a pub crawl with a difference this month as the local branch of the Campaign for Real Ale encourages people to get out and about. National Pub Week runs from February 19-26 - but the

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Petra's number one

Meet Petra, first lamb of the year to join farmer Peter Barnes' flock in Temple Grafton. The youngster arrived on Sunday, a birthday treat for Mr Barnes, and was joined by a second lamb on Monday. Mothers and babies are said to be doing well.

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Scouts denied lottery funding

ALCESTER'S Scout and Guide groups have been refused a £190,000 lottery grant towards their new headquarters because the members are not disadvantaged enough. Leaders were informed last week that the Big Lottery Fund had rejected the application because

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* Lady vicar used to be a man * GP centre hailed 'best in country' * Hair we go...pain pulls in penn

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Career was tailor made

LAWRENCE Robinson never considered joining his father in the family firm, despite inheriting his skill with a needle. But when he realised his chosen career in the travel industry was not going to pay enough to keep a mortgage and a family, he took his

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Town to decide

PUBLIC opinion will decide whether Alcester's Greig Centre receives town council funding for its redevelopment project. Councillors have decided to call a meeting before committing an estimated £150,000 which would have to be paid for by a precept on

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Tapping into new talent

YOUNG Redditch rockers Drunk Plumber will be hitting the airwaves tomorrow after being invited to play for Kerrang 105.2FM Radio. The band - Ross Porter, Tom Leonard, Elliot Vaughan and Jamie Dunstan, all 17 - will be performing a live acoustic set on

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Opposition to scheme

PLANS for a housing development, nursing home and offices on Friday Furlong, in Bidford, have been given the go ahead despite objections from the parish council and local doctors. Stratford District Council's west area planning committee last week gave

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Club's pre-tax figures

WORCESTERSHIRE County Cricket Club has announced a pre-tax surplus for the second year running. The 2004 surplus is £49,839 compared to £46,602 in 2003. Overall revenue increased by 6.4 per cent, while non-cricket expenditure rose by just 2.6 per cent

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Village nets cash for footie-mad George

THE fine fund-raising efforts of Studley villagers was marked at the weekend when the cash they gathered was handed over to the Diana, Princess of Wales Children's Hospital, Birmingham. The money raised by both Studley Infants School and the village Christmas

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Third mast agreed for site

A THIRD mobile phone mast is to be put up on grain silos at Oversley Green despite objections from residents and Alcester Town Council. The application from T Mobile, to replace the mast currently on Oversley Castle, was given the green light by Stratford

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There's platinum awards in Malvern Hills

ENTRIES are being sought for a competition to celebrate the best in Malvern businesses. The annual Platinum Awards for Business Excellence, held by Malvern Hills District Council, was launched on Monday. The awards aim to celebrate the excellence, innovation

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Banding together in poverty campaign

BROCKHILL Prison inmates taking part in a "Make Poverty History" protest have had a symbolic campaign armband made from paper to stop prisoners using it as a ligature. Because of the potential for suicide, prisoners cannot be issued with the standard

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More CSOs on the way

REDDITCH is to get four new Community Support Officers (CSO) by the end of March. The town already has two of the officers walking the streets. The idea of CSOs has come in for criticism with claims it is policing on the cheap. But town MP Jacqui Smith

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Elections at historic hall

ALCESTER residents can have a say in the future of their historic town hall when the new management committee is elected later this month. Five new members will be elected to the committee on Tuesday, February 15, to help run the grade one listed building

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Flying the flag for hospice

ON April 23, the Primrose Hospice will be hosting a charity "Walk for England" to celebrate St George's Day. Fundraiser Lyn Winters and her small army of volunteers have put together three walks for all abilities. Walk 1 is a one-mile walk suitable for

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Top tips on tresses

A CELEBRITY hairstylist visited Redditch to give students at NEW College a master class in tricks of the trade. Andrew Jose, author of the book Love Your Hair, swapped his top salons in London and Prague to spend time at the college's Fusion salon to

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Foot-tapping fun for all

TWO bands are planning to give townsfolk a night to remember on Friday, February 18, when they take to the stage in aid of Primrose Hospice's 'Primrose at the Princess' appeal. Dempsey's Lot will perform lively Irish music to get townsfolk's toes tapping

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Band does the double

TOP rockers The Reflections will give their fans a treat when they perform two Bromsgrove gigs in as many weeks. The group will be at the Hop Pole Inn, Birmingham Road, this Friday and at the Queen's, in Stoke Wharf, the following Friday, February 11.

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Concert

CHORAL music fans are in for a treat with Droitwich Concert Club's next concert this Saturday. The club will welcome the Worcester Cathedral Choir together with Adrian Lucas who, as well as being Master of the Choristers, is Director of the Worcester

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More voices to be heard

A MIXED chamber choir is hunting for more beautiful voices to add to their performances. Keen tenors and basses are sought by the Grafton Singers, who formed more than 35 years ago, and regularly perform concerts, and sing church services in the surrounding

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Sleeping Beauty skates in

BIRMINGHAM'S Hippodrome Theatre will be transformed with the building of an ice-rink when The Imperial Ice Stars arrive on Tuesday to perform the magical Sleeping Beauty on Ice. Fourteen thousand litres of water will be pumped into the theatre, together

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Palace plays host to top ensemble

THE Palace Theatre hosts a return visit by The Locrian Ensemble on Saturday evening with their show - The Greatest Classical Concert in the History of the World by Candlelight. The theatre will be transported back in time when the chamber music group,

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What's On Guide

Thursday, February 3 Stephen O'Brien: An Evening of Clairvoyance, Palace Theatre. Tickets from 65203. The Legend of Sinatra starring Garry Williams, Symphony Hall, Birmingham. Tickets from 0121 780 3333. The Lady in the Van by Alan Bennett, Festival Theatre

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Following the Pied Piper to open night

TALENTED thespians are invited to an open night for Bromsgrove drama group All and Sundry on Tuesday at the Peace Hall in Rowney Green. The friendly group is always looking for new members but this time it is looking for actors and singers who can help

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What's on guide

Wednesday February 2 FILM: Finding Neverland, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. THEATRE: Wind in the Willows, Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham. SINGLES: Live Wyres, social singles, The New Inn, Ombersley Road, Worcester,

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Calling all sci-fi fans

A SPECIAL day is in store for sci-fi fans, thanks to A Galaxy of Stars. The event, which takes place at The Winter Gardens, Weston-Super-Mare on April 16, is being held in celebration of the Star Wars Episode III, along with the long and overdue return

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Tow be or not tow be

TOP towing tips for caravanners are available at the National Boat, Caravan and Outdoor Show 2005 at Birmingham's NEC between February 19 and 27. Visitors will be given the opportunity to hitch up and tow a caravan on the roads around the NEC as part

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Classic sports cars to go on show

ALL MANNER of classic sports cars will be on show at the International Motorsport Show at Coventry's Stoneleigh Park between February 25 and 27. Lover of historic cars should step on the gas if they want to see 200 competition cars and 600 exhibitors

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Going Postal Error! Unknown switch argument. Terry Pratchett

Published by Doubleday £17.99 Moist Von Lipwig, aka Albert Spangler a con artist and fraudster, can choose between being hanged or taking charge of Ankh-Morpork's ailing near extinct postal service. It's a tough decision. Can he revive the post offices

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The Punisher (18)

When Frank Castle (Tom Jane) takes his final job as a top-shot undercover cop, he takes an oath to his wife and children that they will have a better life to come. Unfortunately, his last case turns out to be the one he will never forget. After the scene

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Rooster Rooster

Poor old Luke Potashnick - the Rooster guitarist just can't get a look in! While there can be no doubting the excellent vocal capacity of frontman Nick Atkinson, the band's debut album would have been so much better had he given his right-hand man a little

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White Noise (15)

White Noise contains all the necessary elements demanded from the horror film - jumpy popcorn-throwing moments, tension and enough (at times, too much) of the unknown to get the imagination into gear. The film kicks off on an eerie note with the sudden

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The Bourne Supremacy (12)

THIS film serves as a good example of the golden rule of filmmaking - that sequels are never as good as the original. Matt Damon returns as Jason Bourne, now hiding in Goa with his girlfriend Marie and living a seemingly tranquil life. Only nightmares

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The Dresser, Malvern Festival Theatre

THE show must go on - that motto of theatreland - is never better demonstrated than in Ronald Harwood's The Dresser. Neither Hitler's blitzing of London nor the leading man's ill health is going to prevent the staging of King Lear - the play within this

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Pupils can learn lifesaving skills

HIGH schools in Redditch are being urged to sign up to a new scheme offering every pupil the chance to learn emergency life support (ELS) skills. The initiative, a partnership between the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and Hereford and Worcester Ambulance

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Date is set for Hilder inquest

AN inquest into the death of Herefordshire skydiver Stephen Hilder will be held in March, a coroner has announced. Mr Hilder plunged 13,000ft to his death over Hibaldstow airfield, in north Lincolnshire, in the summer of 2003 after both his main and reserve

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Foot-tapping fun for all

TWO bands are planning to give townsfolk a night to remember on Friday, February 18, when they take to the stage in aid of Primrose Hospice's 'Primrose at the Princess' appeal. Dempsey's Lot will perform lively Irish music to get townsfolk's toes tapping

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Life is a cabaret for the WODYS juniors

LIFE is a cabaret for youngsters of Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's Youth Section, who are having a ball entertaining the elderly and sick throughout the area. The Youth Section - affectionately known as WODYS - was formed 23 years ago, with

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Nick preparing to fly back to Iraq

A TERRITORIAL Army volunteer from Worcester is preparing to go back to Iraq to complete the remainder of his tour of duty. Staff Sgt Nick Balsdon, who is serving in the south-east of the war-ravaged country undertaking construction work with the Royal

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More voices to be heard

A MIXED chamber choir is hunting for more beautiful voices to add to their performances. Keen tenors and basses are sought by the Grafton Singers, who formed more than 35 years ago, and regularly perform concerts, and sing church services in the surrounding

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Historic Powick lodge rebuild on the cards

THE demolition and rebuilding of Ham Hill Lodge, a Grade II listed house at Powick, could soon go ahead, after being delayed by planners last year. The 19th century chauffeur's lodge (above right) in the grounds of Queensberry House, Ham Lane, was in

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Watch out for the car park raider

MOTORISTS parking at Worcestershire beauty spots have been warned by police to be extra careful not to leave valuables in their vehicles. A spokesman for Worcester police said criminals took advantage of the fact that many people enjoyed the countryside

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Authority's apology for markets pull-out 'slur'

THE former operator of Droitwich Spa's defunct market has hit out at claims the firm was responsible for its demise. Wendy Fair Markets is demanding an apology from Brian Norfolk, Wychavon District Council's head of corporate projects, after he said it

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Marsh land back to 1870s glory

WETLAND conditions are being returned to the Longdon and Eldersfield Marshes, near Upton-upon-Severn, for the first time since the area was drained in the 1870s. Reed beds are being restored and wildflower grassland re-established at Hill Court Farm as

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Salmon chanted evening!

THE salmon-fishing season began in earnest yesterday - and fishermen were making an early start. The Environment Agency confirmed that anglers could begin to cast their lines to catch the respected game fish. However, anglers will have to wait until Thursday

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Car abandoned

A CAR stolen from outside a house in Wootton Wawen smashed into a kerb in Hockley Heath half an hour later and was abandoned by the thieves. The car, a silver coloured Audi Quattro, was stolen on Monday night after the offenders forced front gates at

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Pancake plans

THE annual pancake races are set to take place in Alcester next week. Organised by the Court Leet, the races will be run along High Street when young and old will compete for the titles in a variety of categories. The races begin at 12.30pm.

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Wrong home theory over terror attack

A WOMAN suffered a terrifying ordeal when two men burst into her Southcrest home and threatened her - though they may have targeted the wrong house. The pair forced their way into the house in Laurel Close at about 11.30pm last Tuesday. They shouted at

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Trio hunted after blaze

POLICE think three men who helped the fire brigade evacuate a block of flats after a blaze broke out may well have been involved in starting it. The fire is believed to have been started deliberately in the first-floor drying room at Abberton House flats

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Car is stolen on test drive

A CAR advertised for sale was stolen from a Hollywood home during a test drive. The thief visited the victim's home in Shawhurst Lane on Friday after responding to an advert in a car trade magazine. During the visit between 12.20-12.45pm, the owner drove

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Anvil theft probe

THIEVES made off with a large blacksmith's anvil from a garden in Lower Bentley last week. A West Mercia police spokesman said: "This large blacksmith's anvil was being used as a garden ornament and had great sentimental value for the owner. "It was very

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Attack caught on film

CCTV operators in Redditch town centre spotted what may be a racially motivated attack on a man who lost a number of teeth. Police are trying to trace two men who attacked the victim outside the Palace Theatre at about 12.15am yesterday (Tuesday, February

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Car is target in race attack

A CAR was badly damaged in what police believe was a racially motivated attack. A corrosive substance was poured over a green Peugeot 306 parked off St George's Road between 7.30-8.30am on Tuesday, January 11. The attack caused £1,000 damage. DC Kate

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Bennett at his very best

Review: The Lady In The Van at the Festival Theatre, Malvern, until Saturday. ON a number of occasions I have remarked how lucky we are in Worcestershire that the Festival Theatre attracts such quality productions. Sometimes we get shows before they head

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REDS BOSS STAYS

ROD Brown has ended any speculation he is about to quit Redditch United for Worcester City. The Reds manager revealed to the Advertiser that he wanted to remain loyal to the club and fans as United charge for the Nationwide Conference North play-offs.

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Fantastic fencing

THREE Redditch fencers made their way to Fenton in Stoke-on-Trent for the Great Britain Youth Championship finals at the weekend. Daniel Wilson, Anita Mason and Shelby Sands, all members of the Redditch Youth Fencing Club, took on the cream of UK fencers

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Have say on health

THE body which runs GP services in Redditch and Bromsgrove is sending out questionnaires about healthcare. The Primary Care Trust is sending questionnaires to 850 people across the two towns. It is asking people to complete them and send them back as

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Jolly hockey sticks for school

ST Bede's Middle School's girls under 13 hockey players had to defeat both tough opposition and the appalling weather to become district champions at the end of January. The Holloway Lane Middle School team lost their first match at the Woodrush High

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Sue is just top

STUDLEY Blue and White Skippers' Sue Dale was awarded with the coach/sports teacher of the year at the Stratford District Sports Awards evening in Sunday. Dale was presented with her award by Stratford Council's Paul Ogden at a glitzy evening at the newly

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Working to allay Millfields fears

WORCESTERSHIRE County Council is working to alleviate fears over the closure of Millfields centre, which caters for people with learning and physical disabilities. The Enfield centre is to be sold off for housing and its 70 students are to be split up

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Students show business skills Students show business skills

STUDENTS from Redditch and Alcester will be competing against other schools and colleges to prove just how much business savvy they have. The Young Enterprise Trade Fair will take place on Saturday in the Kingfisher Centre from 9am-3.30pm. Trinity High

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Knight rider!

CYCLING: Steve Knight took the plaudits for winning the last round of Midland Cyclo Cross at Pitcheroak Wood on Sunday. The MI Racing rider lapped all but three of his rivals in the event. Second was Phil Hughes of Rugby Velo and Mark Allen of Team Cadbury

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Car broken into

LARGE music speakers, a CD player and digital camera were stolen from a Peugeot 206 parked in Barkers Lane, Wythall, in the early hours of Monday. The thief broke in through the passenger door. Witnesses are asked to call Wythall police station on 08457

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Have a say on recycling

RESIDENTS will be given the chance to decide if new recycling ideas are "rubbish" or not. Householders will be asked to vote for one of several options to deal with recyclable material in a referendum planned for the autumn. Council Leader David Cartwright

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New logo is a no-go

THE idea of replacing Redditch Council's dated logo looks set to be rejected tonight because the "disadvantages would outweigh the benefits". Officers say in a report for the executive committee that the 80s logo is "not particularly fashionable" and

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Whitto's a super sub

AFTER a couple of spells in goal Studley coach Trevor Whittington turned his hand to goal scoring on Saturday and netted a vital last-gasp equaliser against Biddulph Victoria. James Marrow had given the Beehive visitors a 72-minute lead and with Studley

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MP demands action over train services

SIR Michael Spicer is turning up the heat on the Strategic Rail Authority to improve Worcestershire's train services. The West Worcestershire MP has written to SRA chairman David Quarmby urging him to use the break-up of Central Trains to enhance the

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Foot feared lost as train hits man

A MAN is thought to have lost his foot when he was hit by a train at a railway crossing in Malvern. A British Transport Police spokeswoman said they received a call at 6.55pm on Monday, January 31, from the driver of the 18.40 Great Malvern to Dorridge

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Palace plays host to top ensemble

THE Palace Theatre hosts a return visit by The Locrian Ensemble on Saturday evening with their show - The Greatest Classical Concert in the History of the World by Candlelight. The theatre will be transported back in time when the chamber music group,

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Trio treat at society

REDDITCH Music Society's next concert is on Saturday when The Montpellier String Trio performs music by Mozart, Beethoven, Francaix and Schubert. Formed in 1995 by members of the City of Birmingham Orchestra, the Trio comprises violinist Marcus Barcham-Stevens

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Ultimate frisbee fliers hang fire over venue

ORGANISERS behind a major frisbee tournament in Malvern are confident it will take place in the town again this year - provided they can secure a venue. The Ultimate Frisbee event was held in the town for the first time last year and was organised by

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What's On Guide

Thursday, February 3 Stephen O'Brien: An Evening of Clairvoyance, Palace Theatre. Tickets from 65203. The Legend of Sinatra starring Garry Williams, Symphony Hall, Birmingham. Tickets from 0121 780 3333. The Lady in the Van by Alan Bennett, Festival Theatre

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Shoaib slating

PAKISTAN legends Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis have questioned Worcestershire's decision to sign their controversial compatriot Shoaib Akhtar as an overseas player this summer. The former captains find Shoaib, the fastest bowler on the planet, guilty of

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Robbins looking to build on his success

MOTORCYCLIST Martin Robbins is gearing up for what he hopes will be another successful season in his sport. The 40-year-old Worcester resident enhanced his reputation with a series of top results on the SuperMoto circuit last year and sees no reason why

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Talented youngsters gain national final tickets

TWO Worcestershire riders made the line-up in a national show jumping qualifier staged at Warwickshire College and attracting entrants from several counties. Broadway's Annabel Stout and Wychbold's Laura Hollier were both competing in the Kitt Kraiburg

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Cookley bid to shed 'old' image

COOKLEY Cricket Club are hoping to shake off their tag as having one of the oldest playing squads in the area by targeting youngsters for some specialised coaching sessions. Thanks to a grant from the Sebright Trust, the club have arranged for former

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Evesham sides are targeting county joy

FOUR Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday Football League clubs progressed to the semi-finals of the Worcestershire FA County Cups. Ambassador reached the last four of the Junior Cup with a thrilling 3-2 victory at Perrywood Reserves. And the league is guaranteed

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Riders limbering up

CYCLESPORT Midlands are holding a reliability ride on Sunday with a time limit of two hours 45 minutes. The event, which is not in a race format, starts from St John's Sports Centre at 9am and takes a hilly 45-mile route. It goes out to Tenbury Wells

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Here's Olivia

Marston Green 0 Redditch VC 1 Redditch VC kept up their recent good form with another deserved victory at Marston Green to keep them within touching distance of the top three. VC should have taken the lead in the early exchanges but Olivia Nicholson's

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Derby draw

JUNIOR FOOTBALL: Studley Juniors under 12A were held to a 1-1 draw with Redditch United under 12s. Nathan Hurley was the Studley scorer while Jack Lewis took the man of the match. Both the under 12A and under 12 sides are on the lookout for more players

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Churchill ready for mid-table battle

EXPERIENCED Bromsgrove campaigner Tom Churchill is expected to be fit for Saturday's mid-table clash at Luctonians. It was feared the rugged player would miss Saturday's game with a broken cheek bone after he was stamped on the head during the draw with

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Boars let lead slip

Bromsgrove 25 Derby 25 LEAKY Bromsgrove lost a 17 point lead as 14-man Derby battled back to take a share of the points in a pulsating match at Finstall Park on Saturday. The Boars had powered into a 25-8 lead but withered under increasing pressure from

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Droitwich rocked by moment of madness

Silhillians 46 Droitwich 12 TEN minutes of madness on Saturday ensured that bottom-of-the-table Droitwich slipped further towards relegation. Spa had been holding Silhillians at home in the first half, but a lapse of concentration mid-way through allowed

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Volunteers

I WOULD like to thank all the magnificent volunteers whose hard work has helped to kick start the Year of the Volunteer 2005. January was Health Month and across the country nearly 80 projects and events attracted new volunteers and helped raise the profile

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Service was efficient

READING the article regarding Mr Brian Phillips' problem when he contacted the out of hours Primary Care Service, I appreciate the problems he said he had experienced. I have had to contact this service three times in the past ten months. All my calls

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Sad tale

REGARDING the dreadful case of the former Bromsgrove couple who killed that lovely little boy they supposedly adopted and now the true mother wishes she could turn the clock back. Well, I am sorry, but what good is that now? That poor boy won't grow up

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Results not good enough

THE recent announcement of how all high schools and colleges had done nationally against each other in terms of attainment and achievement throws up some interesting observations if you look at the details. Although recognising there had been a slight

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It belongs to us all

AS I was on holiday at the time of the original article, I am grateful for the opportunity to respond to the story headlined - You can't use my church - Vicar. Let me assure your readers the church belongs to all the parishioners. The people at St Michael's

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Injury-hit 'Fishers have Hands full

Handsworth 15 Redditch 3 A PACKED Kingfishers treatment table was no help as Redditch lost vital ground on their North Midlands One rivals as they were toppled by mid-table Handsworth. Four regulars - Andy Norrie, Joe Alekna, Glenn Francis and Paul Barnett

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Charity call for youth support

A WORCESTERSHIRE charity which supports youngsters who have offended or are at risk of offending needs volunteers to get involved in four groundbreaking schemes in Redditch. Youth Support Services (YSS) works with young people and adults to increase their

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Rovers sunk by brilliant Ball's brace

Evesham United 2 Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Southern League Division One West ROVERS' promotion hopes suffered a severe dent as striker Richard Ball's brace settled a feisty Worcestershire derby at Common Road. The home side were lucky to have 11 men playing

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Witness support call

THE Redditch Magistrates Court witness service desperately needs more volunteers if it is to continue its good work with witnesses, victims and families. The service, run by Victim Support, helps people cope with crime and plays an essential role in the

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Fairfield licked by slick Cadbury

Fairfield Villa 0 Cadbury Athletic 4 INJURY hampered Fairfield at the Recreation Ground as title chasing Cadbury scored three second half goals to ensure victory on Saturday. Villa had been matching their high-flying rivals in the Midland Combination

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Baxter's returning

PERTEMPS Bees winger Nick Baxter returned to his first club Kings Norton this week to pass on a few coaching tips. Baxter, the leading try scorer in National League history and the first player to score 100 league tries in England, was at the Ash Lane

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* GREAT PRIZES TO BE WON * WIN! MALVERN THEATRES TICKETS * WIN! A DAY AT THE RACES AND RIDING LESSON

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On your feet!

WE are writing to ask all infant and primary schools in the Bromsgrove and Droitwich area to join us and take part in 'Little Feet, Big Feat' - a brand new schools initiative to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The charity is looking for 150,000

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Service was efficient

READING the article regarding Mr Brian Phillips' problem when he contacted the out of hours Primary Care Service, I appreciate the problems he said he had experienced. I have had to contact this service three times in the past ten months. All my calls

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Cat food

THE Christmas Food Collection which was made on behalf of the Worcester and District Cats Protection has now come to a close and we would like to say a very big thank you to the public for their amazing generosity, Also to Morrisons, Droitwich, and Townsend

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Great effort

ON behalf of the Royal British Legion- Aston Fields Branch, I would like to thank Morrison's Supermarket for their hospitality and kindness in allowing us to collect during the Poppy Appea and with special thanks to Lyn Hancox and Shelley. May I also

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It belongs to us all

AS I was on holiday at the time of the original article, I am grateful for the opportunity to respond to the story headlined - You can't use my church - Vicar. Let me assure your readers the church belongs to all the parishioners. The people at St Michael's

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Rock on, Tommy!

Birmingham Hippodrome plays host to the premiere of a new production of The Who's hit rock musical Tommy from February 16-26. Tommy, starring Jonathan Wilkes, is the story of a deaf, dumb and blind kid who endures a life of torment and ridicule until

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Store's future unclear

THERE was uncertainty last week after the department chain store Allders was placed in administration. The firm has a large store employing 155 people in the Kingfisher Centre but it was unclear what the future of the shop would be last week. However,

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Arty meetings

MEMBERS of Lickey Hill Arts Society have a jam-packed year ahead of them with monthly meetings at the parish hall, on Rose Hill, from 7.30pm. The meetings are held on the first Saturday of the month, while subscriptions are £10 for individuals or £15

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What's on guide

Wednesday February 2 FILM: Finding Neverland, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. THEATRE: Wind in the Willows, Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham. SINGLES: Live Wyres, social singles, The New Inn, Ombersley Road, Worcester,

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Cool crowd

WORLD class ice-skating in the intimacy of the theatre is brought to Birmingham Hippodrome next week. The Imperial Ice Stars will perform Sleeping Beauty on Ice from February 8-12. Behind the scenes, preparation will build an ice-rink that will see a

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Calling all sci-fi fans

A SPECIAL day is in store for sci-fi fans, thanks to A Galaxy of Stars. The event, which takes place at The Winter Gardens, Weston-Super-Mare on April 16, is being held in celebration of the Star Wars Episode III, along with the long and overdue return

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Bromsgrove Railway Club

OUR next meeting will be held next Wednesday. This will be a large screen video presentation with Karl Jauncey and David Richards. The title of the show is preserved steam on video 04. This show covers all the main line steam workings over the last 12

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Rubery WI

ThE January meeting was an open one and quite a few visitors came. Names were taken for the group meeting, which Rubery is hosting in March and other business concluded. The speaker for the evening was John Fletcher and his talk was entitled 'The Roy

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Schools are coasting

THE week before last saw the announcement of how all High Schools and colleges had done nationally against each other in terms of attainment and achievement. When you examine the fine details, some interesting observations emerge. Although recognising

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Nancy Butterfly Women's Morris Dancing

THE Nancy Butterfly women's Morris dancing side are inviting any interested dancers or musicians to join them on Mondays at 8.15pm at the Methodist Church Hall, Evesham Road, Headless Cross, or to call 01527 576251 for more details. We are a fun-loving

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Inner Wheel Club of Droitwich Spa

President Patricia Phillips lit the candle of friendship and welcomed members to the Raven Hotel for their January meeting. An enjoyable World Inner Wheel Day had been held on January 10 at the home of overseas service organiser Lesley Mackenzie, who

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Newsflush: Chain reaction to Tory toilets revelation

WELL done, Councillor Mary Drinkwater for letting the "cat out of the bag" or should I say "public conveniences for the chop". The Tory proposals to close all public conveniences in the city deserve her admonition. This is another example of failing to

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Tasty treats ahead

YOUNGSTERS at an after-school club rolled up their sleeves and got ready for Shrove Tuesday by making pancakes last night. Children at the QEST After -School Club, held at Stoke Prior First School, have a light dinner each evening and will be tucking

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Church appeal is wound up

THERE was a day of celebration and thanksgiving last Sunday at St John's parish church. The event is likely to go down as one of the most important in recent times in the Bromsgrove church's long history. A congregation of some 300 people gathered for

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Remembering the victims of the Holocaust

SCORES of townsfolk braved the rain and cold to pay their respects to the victims of the Holocaust. Rev Nigel Marns, the vicar of St John's, made a poignant speech in Sanders Park, Bromsgrove, last Thursday to mark the 60th anniversary of the liberation

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American friends

A GROUP of Americans stretched a helping hand across the pond when they visited Bromsgrove to help out at NewSong Community Church. The group of five men from Indianapolis visited the Broad Street church in Sidemoor to meet people and see the church's

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Rooster booster

THE magic of the Orient came to life when a group of Bromsgrove School students held a celebration for the Chinese New Year. Twelve Chinese fifth form pupils from Bromsgrove School dropped in on the reception class at Meadows First to tell the five and

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School is top of the class

STAFF and pupils are celebrating after their school was highlighted as one of the best in the country. The accolade comes after David Bell, the Chief Inspector of Schools, included South Bromsgrove High School in a report set to be read out to parliament

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Car-lover Sid is in Seven heaven

AN Austin 7 enthusiast has embarked on a new restoration project. Sid Gamble, from Crabtree Lane, Sidemoor, is attempting to fully restore a 1932-33 Austin 7 RP Van, of which there is only believed to be 12 in existence. Retired Sid, who has already restored

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Dressing up in style

STAFF and children at a Rubery nursery raised nearly £230 at a fancy dress day held in aid of the tsunami appeal. Youngsters at My First Friends Nursery, in Ashbrook Drive, Great Park, made donations to the fund at the event, which was held last Thursday

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Ponies kept in diabolical conditions

A BROMSGROVE man accused of keeping three ponies in "disgusting" and "diabolical" conditions has pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering. Derek Thomas Monkton, from Broad Street, Sidemoor, pleaded guilty at Redditch Magistrates Court yesterday

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Street theatre, have your say

STREET theatre in Bromsgrove celebrates its tenth anniversary this year and townsfolk are being asked to help shape the fun at future events. Leisure chiefs at Bromsgrove District Council want to hear from people who have enjoyed the annual festival in

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Anger over new plan for Oakalls

OAKALLS residents are up in arms after controversial plans for a housing development were re-submitted. Housing developers KingsOak have been accused of not listening to home owners after submitting revised plans to Bromsgrove District Council to build

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Move to improve pedestrian access

NEW plans have been drawn up to improve pedestrian access to the High Street from the ASDA development. After public consultation, a new design - set to cost around £200,000 - was created to upgrade access across both Market Street and the bus lane in

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Market demands apology

THE former operator of Droitwich Spa's defunct market has hit out at claims they were responsible for its demise. Wendy Fair Markets is demanding an apology from Brian Norfolk, Wychavon District Council's head of corporate projects, after he said they

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Top level lido talks take place

TALKS to discuss the future of Droitwich Spa's historic lido took place last night (Tuesday). Wychavon District Council's executive board met in Pershore to consider the plans submitted for the lido by campaign group Save a Lido Today (SALT). SALT has

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Charity feels the pinch

CHARITIES in Bromsgrove are feeling the pinch after donations were hit by the popularity of the tsunami disaster appeal fund. Donations to some charities seem to have been put on the back burner while aid is rushed to Asia and its desperate people. A

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Car park scheme is turned down

BROMSGROVE'S multi-storey car park will not be used as a car lot at slack times, it has been decided. An idea to use the Churchfields facility as a car mart on one evening or on a Sunday to raise cash for the council and to help stop 'kerbside' sales

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Have a pan-tastic Shrove Tuesday!

A SQUEEZE of lemon and a sprinkle of sugar was the perfect topping to pancakes made by tots at a Spa school. Youngsters at Chawson First School, in Wych Road, wished to remind residents of Pancake Day next Tuesday. Classic pancakes are made from eggs,

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Store could buy ticket machines

BOSSES at Bromsgrove's ASDA store are prepared to buy two extra car park ticket machines in a bid to ease customer's frustrations at having to wait in long queues before shopping in the Market Street shop. The giant Leeds-based supermarket has taken on

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Firm pays out to ex-employee

A DROITWICH construction firm has been told to pay a trainee carpenter more than £4,000 for unfairly dismissing him after being accused of misleading him over his college course. Mr Andrew House, aged 24, gave up his job as manager of a Wetherspoon pub

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Tax hike to clean streets

COUNCIL taxpayers in Bromsgrove are facing a budget increase of £500,000 at the town depot - just to ensure clean streets. The depot's budget was originally estimated to be £2.5million for the next financial year but in December, as part of the district

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Sweet sculpture is on show in the Spa

BRITAIN'S largest sugarcraft sculpture will end its extensive tour of the country in Droitwich Spa. The phenomenal six-foot tall water fountain, crafted from 55 kilograms of sugar paste will be on show in St Richard's House from now until the end of March

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Job losses fear over new laws

HUNDREDS of local businesses are breaking the law and face potentially damaging fines because of new disability legislation. Now traders' leaders warn that some businesses in the town may be forced to close as a result with the loss of many jobs. Councillor

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Centre adds new services

A DROITWICH Spa childcare and adult drop-in centre is launching a number of new services to increase its contact with the community. Kate Jones, temporary programme manager at WANDS, on the Westlands estate, said the centre would soon be sending out a

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Parking woes could be eased

NEW parking restrictions could be imposed on a network of Droitwich Spa roads to ease a long-running problem of congestion. Residents are being asked their opinion on plans to stop motorists parking on parts of Blackfriars Avenue, Spa Road, Fabricius

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Eve's European visit

A JET set Spa pensioner is heading off to Germany this month to meet with her European peers. Eve Freer, a member of the Regional Assemblies Advisory Group on Ageing, has been asked to attend the first Silver Economy Conference in Germany. It is a three-day

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The Punisher (18)

When Frank Castle (Tom Jane) takes his final job as a top-shot undercover cop, he takes an oath to his wife and children that they will have a better life to come. Unfortunately, his last case turns out to be the one he will never forget. After the scene

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School is in the best of health

AN early morning aerobics session helps Droitwich Spa tots start the day bursting with energy. The six-minute workout is just one of the schemes adopted by Wychbold First and Nursery School, which has just won an award for promoting healthy living. It

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The Chemical Brothers Push The Button

THE faultless superstar DJs are back with another block rockin' beat after three years in the dance wilderness. Despite the hits of Star Guitar and It Began In Afrika on their last work Come With Us, the album could be classed as a below-par performance