Archive
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Kidderminster Victoria firsts
KIDDERMINSTER Victoria got their promotion push off to a winning start with a convincing nine-wicket victor over newly-relegated Cannock in Birmingham and District Premier League Division One. The weather could have been the winner, but speedy covering
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Kidderminster Victoria seconds
KIDDERMINSTER Victoria seconds got their Birmingham League 2nd XI Premier Division campaign off to an encourging start with a winning draw at Coventry and North Warwick. A good innings of 53 from Andy Siwicki helped KVCC towards a reasonable score, but
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Kidderminster Victoria
DEFEAT put a dampener on Kidderminster Victoria County League firsts' visit to Netherton as they went down in wet and windy condition. Having lost Aussie Kyle McAllister early on, inexperienced Kidderminster slumped to an alarming 18-5 and had to rely
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Chainwire v Cleobury
CLIVE Smith's impressive figures of 5-51 helped Chainwire to 13 points from a winnig draw against Cleobury in Division Five. Chainwire were put in to bat and struggled on the damp pitch. Cleobury's opening bowlers O Rowlands (2-29) and Grant Carbines,
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Wilden Industrial Estates Cricket League
ON Sunday, John Blakely of the White Swan hit 112no, sharing in a 160-run stand with Mick Pountney (61no), leading their team to a 161-run victory over Chainwire in their Wilden Industrial Estates Cricket League match. Matt Morris, of Spennells, was Wednesday's
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Fearnley Factory Shop Worcestershire Sunday Club Cricket League
KIDDERMINSTER Victoria will begin the defence of their 2nd XI title in the Fearnley Factory Shop Worcestershire Sunday Club Cricket League this weekend. The league, which has a new sponsor, is in its sixth year and features Kidder-minster, Bewdley and
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D-day for Pershore fighting flats plan
CONCERNED residents were learning tonight whether 85 new homes will be built on a field they have fought to save twice before. Today, Wychavon District Council Planning Committee is debating a plan proposing 85 flats, bungalows and two-storey houses be
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New leader for Malvern
DIANE Rayner has taken the reins as leader of Malvern Hills District Council. Coun Rayner, who has been involved in local government for nearly 30 years, was elected at a meeting of full council on Tuesday. Outgoing leader Tom Wells said: "It's been a
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Ambulance battle bus to take to the road
JUST days after the General Election polls closed, staff from Hereford and Worcester Ambulance Service NHS Trust are boarding their own battle bus today as it tours ambulance stations across the two counties. The bus is part of a programme to raise staff
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Lido is blamed for election defection
CAMPAIGNERS battling to save Droitwich's Lido have claimed two county council candidates lost in the elections because they failed to support the pool. Former Conservative county councillor Pam Davey lost her Droitwich East seat while Tory hopeful Michael
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You could be treated with bubbly at races
A DAY of family fun at the gee-gees is being offered at Hereford Racecourse later this month. The racecourse is hosting its family fun day on Sunday, May 22, when all under-16-year-olds accompanied by adults and all pensioners will get in for free. Alongside
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Natural way to give birth
A CENTRE specialising in natural health for women is offering mums-to-be a free introduction to a natural approach to pregnancy. The Wheel of Life Centre in North Malvern Road, Malvern, will be talking about the complementary approach to improving fertility
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Step out on hills for a good cause
PEOPLE still have a chance to slip on their hiking boots and join a charity walk across the Malvern Hills. The Malvern Hills Lions Club has organised the eight-mile-trek, from Gullet Quarry in Castlemorton to Tank Quarry in North Malvern, for Sunday,
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Holly cashes in on skill
A TALENTED teenage pianist has won a cash prize to help fulfil her dream of becoming a professional musician. Holly Harrison, aged 13, was given £300 by the Awards for Young Musicians charity, which gives support to up-and-coming performers. The multi-talented
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What's On
TONIGHT: Birmingham: Marriott Hotel - Lupa. Symphony Hall - Copenhagen Philharmonic Orchestra. Hippodrome - Music to Watch Girls By. Worcester: Huntingdon Hall - Fairport Convention. Coventry: Warwick Arts Centre - Nitin Sawhney. FRIDAY: Stourport: The
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Theatre
Rose, Kidderminster - Hobson's Choice, until Saturday. Edgecliffe School, Kinver - The King and I, until Saturday. Swan, Worcester - Sleuth, Thursday. Three Men in a Boat, Friday and Saturday. Hippodrome, Birmingham - Compagnie Kafig Corps est Graphique
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Exhibitions
MAC, Birmingham - Street Trilogy, Thursday and Saturday. The House by the Lake, Thursday and Saturday. Birmingham Print Makers, Saturday until July 3. The Ballad of Hoa, until June 26. A Boy in a Woman's Body, until June 26. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
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Doctor returns to Westminster
How Wyre Forest voted Richard Taylor (Health Concern) 18,739 Mark Garnier (Conservative) 13,489 Marc Bayliss (Labour) 10,716 Fran Oborski (Liberal) 2, 666 Rustie Lee (UKIP) 1,074 Bert Priest (Monster Raving Loony) 303 Majority: 5,250 Turn-out: 64.2% DR
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Tories are triumphant
MEMBERS of Parliament who represent people in Hartlebury and Rock kept their seats - but Cleobury Mortimer have welcomed a new MP. The Conservatives' Bill Wiggin, who covers Rock and Far Forest as part of the Leominster constituency, and Peter Luff, who
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Harriers crisis hits stalemate
THE battle for control of Kidderminster Harriers has reached a complete stalemate with major shareholder Lionel Newton still waiting for chairman Colin Youngjohns to make the first move. Tomorrow's Friday the 13th deadline will pass without the Aggborough
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Harriers boss left in a Stu
STUART Watkiss has moved to resolve the future of his players - even though his own future at Aggborough remains unclear. While the battle for control of the club goes on behind the scenes, Watkiss faces the unenviable task of ploughing on without a clear
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Teacher celebrates polar challenge end
A TEACHER learned a lot about himself after completing a gruelling trip to reach the North Pole. James Abbot, who teaches design and technology at Abberley Hall Prep School in Great Witley, took part in the Scott-Dunn Polar Challenge, setting off on Saturday
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Off field changes threatened... but it's same old Harriers on the pitch
IF the proposed Kidderminster Harriers takeover consortium popped into Sixfields for a sneaky look at their potential investment on Saturday, they won't have learned much new. For in their 230th and final Football League game it was same old Harriers
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Special time for special kids
MORE than £200,000 of improvements have been made to a Kidderminster special school to cater for new pupils with profound and multiple learning difficulties from the defunct Alexander Patterson School. A new therapy suite has been created at Blakebrook
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Firefighter bids to scoop medals
A FIREFIGHTER from Kidderminster is to pit his professional skills against his counterparts from all over the globe in an international competition. It will be a team effort, as James Bainbridge will be partnered by his wife, Nikki, a management consultant
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Labour pains over
Double success brings party out of wilderness THE Wyre Forest Labour Party has made a "breakthrough" at the county poll after years of voter anger over the downgrading of Kidd-erminster Hospital, one of its new councillors has said. The party was on its
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Gladys makes sure of her vote - at 100
PROBABLY the oldest voter in Wyre Forest was centenarian Gladys Oakey who was determined to exercise her democratic right despite her great age and being wheelchair-bound. For the 100-year-old great, great grandmother, who can remember the suffragettes
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Have you seen rare butterfly?
BUTTERFLY spotters are being sought to monitor rare varieties living in the Wyre Forest. National insect charity, Butterfly Conservation, has called for volunteers to help keep an eye on population numbers of exotically named species ranging from pearl
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Walks
SUNDAY: Stratford Ramblers - Chedworth, start 10am for a joint walk with Mid Warwickshire group, 12 miles of hilly walking. Details: Brian 01295 670937. Evesham Ramblers - Start 10am for an eight mile walk, through fields and orchards in gentle undulating
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Chemists
BIDFORD: Colin Harris, Bidford Pharmacy, 17 High Street, Mon-Fri, 5.30-6pm. 01789 772433. No rota Sunday and public holidays. BROADWAY: Lloyds Pharmacy, 22 High Street, Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5.30pm. CHIPPING NORTON: Today and tomorrow, Boots the Chemist
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College has golden touch after 50 years
PERSHORE Group of Colleges is celebrating its 50th anniversary and as part of the celebrations students will be designing and building a series of celebratory show gardens as part of their Gold Tour, taking in all the major horticultural and garden shows
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Hospices Lottery
1 (£1,000) 00033, Hereford; 2 (£100) 14433, Inkberrow; 3 (£50) 11433, Droitwich.
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Sweet victory over new boys
Redditch Arrows 50 Andover Thrashers 12 Redditch Arrows returned to winning ways with a resounding 50-12 over a spirited Andover Thrashers side. Andover is a newly-formed team who will take heart from scoring their first ever touchdowns. The Arrows started
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Opening defeat
FORMER Worcestershire star Neil Radford proved too hot to handle for Redditch as he steered county neighbours Evesham to a 37-run victory. The Bromsgrove Road side failed to contain the all-rounder who top scored with an impressive 81 and then took 4-
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Millers beaten to cup glory
FECKENHAM may have finished with the losers' medals but the champagne corks were still popping in the Millers' dressing room at the end of the Challenge Cup final. "We took 10 bottles with us and what wasn't drunk ended up sprayed around the dressing
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Butcher delight
DARTS: The Butcher Boys look the team to beat in the Astwood Bank Darts League at the moment following their 9-0 drubbing of Book B, A Whadcoat's maximum helping them to an emphatic victory in Division One. A 180 from V Cozens could not prevent Book's
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Journal opinion
NINE months of effort and enterprise, delight and despair, hits and misses, plaudits and criticism have ended in ecstacy and elevation for Evesham United. Saturday was unimaginable when Dave Busst and Paul West joined forces 18 months ago in a bid to
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'Official' reaction
MUCH has been written in these columns during the past nine months about refereeing standards, so it would be very remiss of me not to have the 'official' final say! Essex man in the middle John Hopkins controlled Saturday's game between Evesham and Bromsgrove
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Have your say on planning
RESIDENTS of Wyre Forest are being given the opportunity to say what they think about how their district planning chiefs consult the public. Over the next month, Wyre Forest District Council, in line with new planning laws, is seeking the views of people
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Special Olympics
JAMIE Dancyger took three gold medals for the Worcestershire Special Olympics squad at the Greater London Regional Athletics event. Dancyger won the 200m, 800m, and was part of the winning relay team. Richie Styles won the standing long jump, Claire Andrews
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Tennis
KIDDERMINSTER Tennis Club are hosting an open day on Sunday, sponsored by the LTA, when everyone, young or old, is invited to play. Prizes to be won at the event, which starts at 2pm, include a holiday for two in La Manga, Spain, a year's free coaching
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Rovers routed by rampant Robins
FANTASTIC scenes that matched the performance resulted in party time at Common Road last Saturday. This was a dazzling Evesham display and the joyous scenes at the final whistle celebrated the club's elevation to top flight Southern League football for
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Luff asks to leave whips' office
PETER Luff's career as a Conservative whip in the House of Commons is set to end in the post-election Tory reshuffle. The Mid-Worcestershire MP has asked to leave behind the cut and thrust of the whips' office so that he can play a bigger role in Parliament
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My little girl has cancer - shave your head to help
THE father of a brave Worcester schoolgirl who has been diagnosed with cancer is appealing to Worcester residents to support her through chemotherapy by shaving their heads. Five-year-old Danielle Hesti was diagnosed two weeks ago with Wilms Tumour -
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I'm losing locks to support son
A CHARITABLE mother will be losing her locks to raise cash for a charity which has helped her son, who suffers from a brain malfunction. Forty-year-old Faith Harper, of Rye Lea, Chawson, Droitwich, will be bravely undergoing the close shave - having her
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Washing off the strains of a year's civic duties
AFTER a year of service the mayors of two Worcestershire towns are putting their feet up starting with a relaxing dip in Droitwich Brine Baths. Andrew Dyke stepped down as mayor of Evesham on Monday, May 9 and Anne Taft is to step down as Droitwich mayor
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Give us back our buses and we'll use them
BUS users could have one of their routes returned to the timetable if the council decides new survey results reveal a pressing need for better transport. In a survey of homeowners in the Redhill and Wyld's Lane areas of Worcester, 88 per cent of the people
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Yellow balloons mark shortfall in foster families
MORE than 200 balloons will be launched outside a Worcester centre tomorrow to mark the number of foster carers who look after children throughout the county. The publicity drive is also a bid to encourage more people to take up the vocation by providing
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Student's appeal on stolen photos
i THIEVES have left a 20-year-old Kidderminster student distraught after breaking into his car and stealing a precious album packed with irreplaceable photographs of a trip of a lifetime to America. i Matthew Keynes, a part-time barman at the Mare and
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Fresh and funky
STREET hip hop comes to Birmingham's Hippodrome Theatre next week when "fresh and funky" French dance troupe Compagnie Kafig present Corps est Graphique. Part of the theatre's 2005 Wide World International performance season, Compagnie Kafig features
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Let us use garage to store our tapes
A VIDEO and distribution business is hoping Malvern Hills chiefs will allow it to use outbuildings on its premises for storing video tapes and DVDS. Kate Preston, who runs Double Vision Video Ltd at Halfkey Farm in Halfkey Road, Malvern, has applied to
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Reward offered on gem snatch
A WOMAN whose bag containing expensive jewellery was stolen while she was shopping at a Kidderminster supermarket has put up a reward for the arrest and conviction of the offenders. The bag contained an 18ct gold ring with a pink sapphire surrounded by
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Vandals running riot and police do nothing
AN angry neighbourhood watch co-ordinator has slammed police in Malvern claiming they have failed to stem a wave of vandalism. Tim Robinson - who helped set up the Dukes Meadow Neighbourhood Watch group last summer - said vandals were repeatedly smashing
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Willow Marsh
KIDDERMINSTER'S Andy Price won the first Friday Afternoon Open of the season at Willow Marsh Fishery, with a 76lb 2oz catch. He caught mainly carp, up to 10lb, backed up with quality roach, taken with open-ended feeder filled with corn, fishing the middle
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Toys for the boys ...and for the girls
YOUNGSTERS in Worcestershire are finding learning lots of fun thanks to a donation to a toy library from the Co-Operative Group. The Malvern-based Borrower's Toy Library, in Sixways Trading Estate, Barnards Green, is a toy lending service for parents,
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£18,500 vehicle stolen
A CARAVANETTE worth £18,500 was stolen from outside a Kidderminster bank. The vehicle, which had been left secure outside Barclays, in Vicar Street, was taken between 9.10pm and 9.55pm on Friday. The vehicle's registration was P750 FDA. Witnesses or anyone
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Many happy returns to Alfie and Archie and Alfie and Archie!
PRECIOUS twin sons of a Stourport-on-Severn couple saw double this week when they celebrated their first birthday with another pair of twins - with the same name. Alfie and Archie Stokes were born on May 10, 2004, after mum and dad Helen Roscoe and Russell
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Replica gun found in car's glovebox
POLICE alerted to a gun incident in Great Witley found a gas-operated firearm in the boot of a vehicle being driven on a hotel car park. Terrance Hope, who was living at the Hundred House Hotel in the village, had earlier had an airgun and a hunting knife
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Man jailed for street violence
A WARNING that street violence would not be tolerated was given by a judge after hearing how two armed men confronted each other in Kidderminster. Alan Jordan was carrying a wooden stave and threatened to cut a woman's head off while Matthew Lavelle had
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Woman admits benefits fraud
A KIDDERMINSTER woman wrongly claimed almost £3,000 in benefits, a court heard. Paula Bliss, 35, of Hawfinch Rise, Kidderminster admitted failing to report a change in her circumstances. Kidderminster magistrates heard she was claiming benefits as if
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From the archives
100 Years Ago May 13, 1905 For some time past the spring flowers at the workhouse have been supremely beautiful, and were the admiration of all who have seen them. The large circular bed in the centre, which is twelve or fourteen feet in diameter, was
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Octoplus Boldings Pools
Thursday Open, 22 fished: Harry Colley (OB Wolves) 129-0 (Sycamore 23 - meat close in, carp 10lb, tench 3lb), Colin Reynolds (OB Wolves) 102-10 (Sycamore 47, meat close in, carp 10lb, bream 3lb), Mick Jameson (Middy ML) 98-5 (Chestnut 32). Saturday Open
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Moorlands Farm
Tuesday Cost-Cutter, Middle, 11: Dave Parsons (Sensas R&D) 74-10 (4), Chris Lyons (Sensas R&D) 53-4 (8), Alan O'Donnell (Moorlands) 30-6 (1). Wednesday Open, Meadow, 15: Brian Cawley (Kamasan) 112-5 (50), Carl Astbury (SBS) 108-9 (53), Alan James
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Woodward Grosvenors AC
Larford Lakes 1-20: S Campbell 33-10.5, J Middleton 28-.05, R Campbell 23-6.5, K Green 20-.05, K T Cooke 19-15.
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Waggon and Horses AC
Wash Pool: M Galazewski 31-7, L Tyler 19-6, B Edwards 19-0. The next contest will be on May 22 at Woodside bottom pool, Cleobury Mortimer. The draw will be made at 7.15am.
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Journal opinion
NINE months of effort and enterprise, delight and despair, hits and misses, plaudits and criticism have ended in ecstacy and elevation for Evesham United. Saturday was unimaginable when Dave Busst and Paul West joined forces 18 months ago in a bid to
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Misguided effort has ruined path
I AM writing regarding the path/roadway which has been completed - at the expense of yet more trees, birds and insects - in what local walkers call Chestnut Wood in Stourport. Who makes these fatuous, inane, absurd, preposterous, ludicrous decisions?
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Wrens Nest AC
Canal 8-9: P Butler 2-4, P Knowles 1-15, J Moon 1-1. On Sunday there will be a match on both the Wrens Pools, draw at 8am.
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Gilt Edge AC
KDAA Pool: Frank Guest 4-4, Graham Rosser 3-0, John Gale 2-8, Jeff Garbett 1-10. This week's contest is at Woodside Fishery's top pool. Phone 01562 824651 for details.
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HETA AC
Latest match: B Oliver 15-12, J Connolly 15-5, K Moss 14-6. Wassell Grove is the venue for Sunday's match, which will be draw at 7.30am. Anglers are to meet at the venue.
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Old Bear AC
A Juniors contest will be held at Wellfield Pools on Saturday, cars to leave Old Bear at 9am. On Sunday there is a Seniors contest on the Staffordshire/Worcestershire Canal, 19-20. Those interested in taking part should meet at the venue for the 7.30am
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Bumper crowd for Bewdley title shootout
BEWDLEY Town are bracing themselves for a winner takes all title tussle with rivals Great Wyrley at Ribbesford Meadows this evening (kick off 6.30pm). Craig Payton's men go into the match on the same points as their Cannock opponents but having played
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Weekend to mark 900 years of church
A WEEKEND OF Thanksgiving is being held at Ashton-under-Hill to mark the 900 years of St Barbara's Church. The role of St Barbara's at the heart of the village community is being marked with an exhibition of the church's history and a Service of Thanksgiving
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Banksiders AC
Elmbridge Peacock Pool: Mark Brickles 43-5, Dennis Moles 28-1, Mick Swalwell 11-11-8dr.Stackpool: Dave Lavelle 1-3-4, Steve Raynor 0-13-0, Trevor Hyrons 0-11-12. Points to date, first six: Swalwell 56, Moles 55, Raynor 45, Ray Jordan 43, Geoff Wilkes
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Fantastic fight for school
I AM absolutely devastated about the decision to close some of our community schools. Two of my children have the privilege of attending Lea Street First School in Kidderminster, a privilege which has now been taken away from my third child. There are
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Awards for brave actions by police
AN EVESHAM policeman disarmed a drunken knifeman who had stabbed his father. Now PC Peter Davey has been commended for his bravery along with three other Evesham policemen. PC Davey, aged 45, was first on the scene of an incident last August after the
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No change as Vale MPs retain seats
IT was a night of very little change last Thursday after voters had spent the day at the polls. In Mid Worcestershire MP Peter Luff retained his seat by polling more than twice the Labour vote with 24,783 but MP Sir Michael Spicer's majority was cut by
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Kidderminster and District League tables
SATURDAY PREMIER P W D F A P Cradley Hth 26 21 4 83 15 67 Wyre For 25 16 4 69 36 52 Brintons 25 14 4 75 35 46 Kinver 26 14 4 62 45 46 Two Gates 26 12 6 77 51 42 Quarr Bank 26 10 7 44 51 37 Areley King 26 10 5 52 51 36 George & Dr 26 8 11 54 45 35
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Stourport Youth League tables
UNDER-8s DIVISION ONE P W D F A P Nunnery Ls 21 17 0 70 18 51 Ferndle Fly 21 14 3 57 27 45 Warndon L 21 11 3 37 36 36 Areley Kgs 21 11 2 46 39 35 Kidder Lion 21 6 7 27 28 25 Nunnery Spts 21 6 3 24 39 21 W For Panth 21 6 3 22 44 21 Mostyn Rng 21 2 1 9
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A theme of today for a historic play
AN old play with a theme of interest today is opening at the RSC next Wednesday. Believe What You Will is about a Middle Eastern leader who comes out of hiding to reclaim his identity. He has been denied his crown and denounced by the all-powerful Roman
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From sitcom serenity to a deadly double act
THE Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham lives up to its name over the next week with a range of theatre for all tastes. The classic farce Arsenic and Old Lace opens on Monday and runs to May 21. It stars Angela Thorne from To the Manor Born, Brigit Forsyth
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Hartlebury History Society
D HARRINGTON will give a talk entitled "Worcestershire Curiosities" at Hartlebury parish hall on Thursday, May 19, starting at 7.30pm. Members and visitors will be welcome - there is an entry fee.
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Kidderminster District Probus Club
AT the April meeting, John Boynton talked about "Railways of Worcestershire", illustrating his talk with slides of engines, rolling stock and stations in the county. He reminded members of platform tickets and carriages without corridors, and concluded
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Swinging stuff
BARN dance supremos Dampiers Round are coming back to Pershore's Number 8 for another evening of swinging partners and do-si-doing. The event is on Friday, May 20. Call in for tickets or phone 01386 555488.
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Stone WI
ON May 2, Brenda Barrett reported on the walk in the Wyre Forest, and she also had organised a meal and talk at Barnett's Hill. Carol Howell reported on the visit to a lunch at Astley village hall, when Paul Cook gave a talk on "The Road to Chelsea".
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Singing star in charity concert
THE world's leading counter-tenor James Bowman has offered to sing at a concert at Pershore Abbey on Saturday, May 28, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief. Bowman was recently voted the experts' expert counter-tenor by his colleagues. He is celebrated for
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Road advice for tractor drivers
WITH silage-making getting under way and more tourists heading for the country as the weather improves, NFU Mutual is warning tractor drivers to take special care on the roads. "Our claims statistics show that accidents involving tractors and other road
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Tiger house plan refused
PLANS for a drive-through tiger compound at West Midland Safari Park have been denied council permission - despite having already been built. An underground tunnel and watchtower are in put in place but park owners could now have to take them down. Two
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Auction will be swansong
ENTERPRISING Bewdley High School sixth formers are putting a host of items up for auction tomorrow in a bid to raise more than £2,000 for Cancer Research UK. The eight-strong team of 16 and 17-year-olds have been given 70 items, ranging from candles to
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Town loses only petrol station
THE only petrol station in Bewdley is to close next month. The Texaco garage in Kidderminster Road, beside Bewdley Police Station, will shut on Thursday, June 2. Twelve people work at the station and a Texaco spokesman said the firm was doing everything
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Floral tribute marks VE Day anniversary
BEWDLEY celebrated the 60th anniversary of Victory in Europe with a tribute flower festival, a 1940s social evening and a church service of remembrance. St Anne's Church in the town centre was filled with 23 displays depicting aspects of wartime, created
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Ilmington
PARISH COUNCIL: The April meeting of the parish council, chaired by Cllr Tony Wilkins, heard that two new dog bins had been put up, the broken manhole at the back of Windmill Close had been replaced, and that the Cotswold AONB marker stone at the junction
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New record in run riot
LAST weekend proved to be a record breaking one for Evesham. Following Saturday's maximum points Birmingham League win over Redditch, the senior side smashed the club record for the highest ever score with a mammoth 428-2 off 42 overs against Studley.
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Youngsters show the way
BADSEY made a fabulous start to the new surroundings of Division Five of the Worce-stershire County League when they accounted for Hallow in emphatic fashion. The sides finished first and second in the sixth division last summer and it was the champions
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Ravens suffer an opening defeat
Wolves Wizards 76 Redditch Ravens 6 The Ravens' first match in the Total RL Conference ended in a heavy defeat. But the inexperienced visitors, some of whom were playing their first competitive game of rugby league, were not disgraced against a large
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A flawless fake bake really was no sweat
READING Kathryn Dawes' harrowing experience of developing skin cancer in yesterday's Worcester News is enough to make the most dedicated sun worshipper think twice before frazzling themself on the beach. Undoubtedly, the best way to avoid the potential
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Ruddigore Great Witley Operatic Society Swan Theatre, Worcester
THIS Gilbert and Sullivan masterpiece is performed far too rarely, so it was a pleasure to join in the madness and mayhem. The curse of Ruddigore is that the baronet has to commit a crime a day or die in agony. Ruthven didn't want to inherit the problem
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Stepping Out Malvern Theatres until Saturday
PATSY Palmer proved there really is life after Bianca in EastEnders with a stunning display of acting and dancing as tap dance teacher Mavis. Written by Richard Harris, Stepping Out is both funny and moving and, for a dance fan like myself, is also well
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Hospital is top priority for new mayor Frances
EVESHAM'S new mayor Frances Smith already has some idea of the demands of the role having served as mayoress alongside her husband. Councillor Smith, who has lived in Hampton all her life, is looking forward to her year in office and the contribution
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Town firefighters to join in carnival fun
PERSHORE'S fire crew is getting into the carnival spirit by opening their station to the public for the Bank Holiday Monday event. Members of the team will be greeting visitors on May 30 to explain more about their job. Carnival committee chairman Dave
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Illegal driver was 'following orders'
AN elderly Indian migrant farm worker who has no driving licence, speaks no English and does not know how old he is appeared in Worcester Magistrates' Court after he caused a road accident. Sarban Singh, who thinks he is about 68, admitted careless driving
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Worcester misses out
WE are told that the national average wage is approximately £26,000 per annum. In Worcester, it is probably less than half that amount. In Liverpool, reckoned to be a deprived area, the average household income is £22,511 per annum. In Worcester it is
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Vitamin ban directive
DAVID Barrie (Letters, Thursday, May 5) is right to highlight the Government's plans to ban certain vitamin and food supplements from sale, and right to point out that the Government has said that it was "compelled to implement" a new EU directive. However
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NHS faults caused by managers
IT is becoming increasingly obvious that the main faults in the NHS are due to poor management by those who are supposed to be managing. Glaring examples are the endless encircling cars trying to find parking in the Worcestershire Royal Hospital. The
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Village clash
EXHALL & Wixford have been given a walkover into the next round of the National Village Knockout competition. They were due to face Gracidieu Park on Sunday but the opposition pulled out of the match on Saturday night. The result means Exhall can
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Silver Georgian jugs stolen from unlocked car
SILVERWARE dealers and collectors are being urged to be on their guard for offers of stolen property following a theft in Broadway. Two silver Georgian cream jugs were taken from the back of an unlocked car in Back Lane at around 11.30am last Friday.
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Season's starter
This weekend sees the start of the Worcestershire Sunday Club Cricket League - the sixth season for the competition. And the organisers have announced new backing for the competition with the Fearnley Factory Shop sponsoring this season's games. The WSCCL
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CD - Robert Plant and the Strange Sensation, Mighty Rearranger
NEVER one to rely solely on his Led Zep glories, Plant has produced possibly his best solo work to date. Comparisons to Zeppelin are obvious and you can draw all the parallels you like between his new songs here and various Zep classics. However, on its
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Top men ready for top flight
JIM COCKERTON and Dave Busst are both united in the task of ensuring that Evesham United's stay in the top flight of Southern League football isn't a short one, writes Mervyn Collins. The Common Road chairman, who revealed a ground sharing plan with Worcester
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Rovers routed by rampant Robins
FANTASTIC scenes that matched the performance resulted in party time at Common Road last Saturday. This was a dazzling Evesham display and the joyous scenes at the final whistle celebrated the club's elevation to top flight Southern League football for
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Music is the word for talented family
A HARMONIOUS Stourport family is hoping to spread the sound of music throughout Wyre Forest by performing at venues such as hotels and residential homes. The Billington Music Group, which has its own website, consists of Heidi and Mike Billington on keyboard
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Danish cellist gives concert
THE acoustics of an historic church in Kidderminster will add to the atmosphere when a well-known Danish cellist performs a concert with Wyre Forest Symphony Orchestra next month. Troels Svane is playing in orchestra's Summer Concert at St Mary's Church
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Folk act at jazz club
A FOLK act which regularly tours the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand is dropping into Stourport to perform at the Riverside Folk and Acoustic Club. Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies will perform at Stourport Boat Club tomorrow night and the doors will
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Jacqui's relief
Jacqui Smith (Lab) 18,012 Karen Lumley (Con) 15,296 Nigel Hicks (Lib Dem) 5,602 John Ison (UKIP) 1,381 REDDITCH'S "shocked" Conservative candidate was left licking her wounds on Friday morning after a jubilant and relieved Jacqui Smith was returned for
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Music capers bring season to a close
AN evening of musical fun and prose celebrating music from every era of the 20th century will bring Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society 2004/2005 season to an energetic end this month. KODS Kapers will be performed at Baxter College in Kidderminster
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Roads close for parade
ROADS in Kidderminster will be closed on Sunday for a parade to mark the 150th anniversary of Kidderminster Town Hall. The ecumenical parade takes place between 4.30pm and 5pm, beginning from St Mary's Church and ending at Weavers Wharf, where a service
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Housing row rumbles on
iARISH councillors in Chaddesley Corbett are pressing their Wyre Forest counterparts to delay the decision on a controversial affordable housing plan that has split the village. The bid to build 10 two and three-bedroomed houses and five bungalows on
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Labour of love marks VE Day anniversary
A TELEVISION programme inspired a Bewdley man to recreate in miniature an enduring symbol of the Second World War. Kidderminster-born Colin Evans, a retired construction industry site agent, made a model of the Bridge on the River Kwai that was on show
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Trust boosted
MAKING music at Kidderminster Town Hall made money for a charity that helps bereaved families. Bramble's Trust was among beneficiaries to receive a share of cash raised through the Youth Makes Music 2005 concert held last month. A total of £473.80 was
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Trips and talks are on new club's agenda
A WYRE Forest club for people "in the prime of their life" has been relaunched and is inviting new members to join. The Hartlebury Young at Heart Club, for over-55s, meets every second and fourth Tuesday at 2.15pm in the Parish Hall, Waresley Road. It
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Favourites overturned as Horse aid the Amby
THREE goals in four first half minutes decided the destiny of the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League first division title. Moreton Wanderers needing to win to complete a League and Cup double found the Red Horse in determined mood, seeking
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Croft cheer for Vale driver Matt
MATT Nicoll-Jones had a successful weekend at Croft in the AVO Ginetta Cham-pionship when he finished fifth in Sunday's point scoring final. Nicoll-Jones was dogged by mechanical problems all weekend and a loss of power on Saturday meant he only qualified
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High St drama
VILLAGERS in Bidford have voiced their outrage at plans to develop part of the High Street. They turned out in force at a parish council planning meeting on Monday to express concern about two houses and six apartments planned for the Fraser House site
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'Oldies' are goodies
LIFE in the new surroundings of Birmingham League Division Three started enco-uragingly for Pershore last Saturday. However, it was left to a trio of old hands to ensure last season's Worcestershire County League champions didn't start the summer on the
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Sentencing due in boat death case
THE man convicted of the manslaughter of a 44-year-old tax worker who drowned in the River Severn at Stourport will be sentenced at the end of next week. At Birmingham Crown Court last Thursday, a pre-sentence report on Tom Prescot, of George Street,
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Dazzling dinghies
THERE was a moderate turnout of dinghies at Arden Sailing Club last Sunday. The first race at Defford was the third in the Arden Trophy Series and Ralph Evans (Solo) looked poised for a perfect start when a gust put him into irons. The Enterprises of
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Foster carers appeal
NEW foster carers are being sought in Wyre Forest as part of a countywide initiative. The scheme is being run in conjunction with the national Fostering Fortnight campaign, which began on Monday and runs until May 22 to highlight the need for more volunteers
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Blood call
BLOOD donors are needed to help meet the demand from hospitals. The National Blood Service will be holding a donor session at Trinity Methodist Church, Churchfields, tomorrow from 1pm to 3.15pm and from 4.30pm to 7.15pm.
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Funding high on Jacqui's agenda
NEWLY re-elected Redditch MP Jacqui Smith has pledged her support for fairer education funding for the county after being appointed Minister for Schools. Ms Smith's new role, giving her responsibility for school standards and discipline, was revealed
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Stolen Gemma back home safe
THERE was a happy ending to the ''tail'' for the owners of Staffordshire bull terrier Gemma after she was stolen nearly two weeks ago. The Advertiser reported last week how eight-month-old Gemma was taken from Liz Kortbeek and her family, of Hampton Close
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Play area gate leaves girl, 6 with black eye
A WINYATES granny has warned parents to be on their guard in certain Redditch play areas after a spring-hinged gate hit her granddaughter in the face, causing severe bruising. Susan Heeks' granddaughter Kayleigh, six, was opening the gate to the play
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Relief at cash payout
A SOUTHCREST woman has spoken of her relief after receiving a cheque from Redditch Royal British Legion club a year after a Birmingham employment tribunal ruled she had been unfairly dismissed. The tribunal decided in favour of 47-year-old Elizabeth O'Donnel
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Nellie celebrates her 100 year milestone
A TOT of whisky a day is the key to a long life according to a Kidderminster woman who has celebrated her 100th birthday. Nellie Helmore made a promise to her late husband, Sidney, that she would have a little tipple each day and believes that is what
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Fears over rise in teen drinking
REDDITCH ambulance crews are being called to an increasing number of incidents involving drunk young teens, according to a town paramedic. Frank Knight told the Advertiser alcohol-related violence among both youngsters and adults accounted for about 70
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All the fun of the fete to help school
A KIDDERMINSTER primary school is holding a summer fete to raise funds for new outdoor play equipment. Bayton Church of England school will host the event, which starts at 2pm on Saturday, June 11. Children will be entertained with pony rides and a bouncy
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Appeal to find missing girl, 15
A 15-YEAR-old girl who is regularly seen in the Redditch area has gone missing from her grandmother's home. Katie Shepherd was last seen at the address in West Heath, Birmingham, on May 4. The last time the dark haired, blue-eyed teenager went missing
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Parking fair for disabled
I JUST wanted to say how sorry I am D. Hayes has been so inconvenienced by disabled people (Letters, May 6). It must be terrible and a true nightmare to have difficulty getting into your car with a child seat. How dare my wife, who has cerebral palsy,
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New police guidelines
ANYONE stopped by police in Wyre Forest will now be entitled to a copy of details recorded by the officer or community support officer. New national guidelines give members of the public the right to see why they were stopped and the outcome. The right
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Survivor blasts new Hitler film
A BATCHLEY war veteran whose arm was blown off as he escaped a Nazi massacre has condemned a new film about Hitler's last days for portraying a German general behind the atrocity as a hero. Bert Evans, 84, is the last man alive who survived the 1940 '
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Give paws for thought
MY name is Carlo and I am a guide dog. I am nine years old. Last august, my ''dad'' Paul Brookes and I almost died when we were hit by a car near our home on Prospect Hill. Now I have to pay another visit to the vet, this time it is for a very trivial
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Looking to the future
A Matchborough man has put his devastating redundancy from MG Rover behind him and set up a new business in home and garden maintenance. David Cartwright, of Kenchester Close, worked as a technician at Longbridge for 10 years before the recent collapse
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Orphans - The Other Space, Everyman, Cheltenham
THIS was a brave effort at a difficult and complex play involving characters on the edge of reason. It centred on two dysfunctional young urban Americans, one (Glen Andrews) a violent mugger, his brother (Craig Rogers) a nervous, isolated semi-child,
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Well done to Jacqui
I AM writing to express my overwhelming joy at the re-election of Redditch MP Jacqui Smith with an increased majority. I have been proud to be part of a growing team of activists who, to a person, will work endlessly to help keep Jacqui entrenched as
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Thanks for your votes
ON behalf of Dot Dudley and myself, I am writing to thank all those people who voted for us in the Redditch North county council election on May 5. Over the next four years, we will aim to serve all the people of the ward, whatever their political persuasion
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Holiday offer
THE Rotary Club of Redditch Kingfisher advise there are still a few places left for their week's holiday to Blackpool from July 7-14 . The holiday costs £122 per person and includes all transport from Redditch to Blackpool and return, bed, breakfast and
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Remembering price of victory
SIXTY years after the guns fell silent in Europe, Redditch ex-servicemen and women, as well as younger generations, came together to remember VE Day on Sunday. A ceremony was held at St Stephen's Church in the town centre, which organisers also felt was
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Music is the word for talented family
A HARMONIOUS Stourport family is hoping to spread the sound of music throughout Wyre Forest by performing at venues such as hotels and residential homes. The Billington Music Group, which has its own website, consists of Heidi and Mike Billington on keyboard
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Millennium memories
THE first four years of the new Millennium in Cookley are explored in a new book by veteran author Betty Caswell. Cookley In The 21st Century is the retired teacher's 14th book about the village where she has lived for the past 55 years. It includes chapters
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School news goes online
LETTERS left in school bags are a distant memory for Matchborough parents, who can now tap into school events. Arrow Vale Community College's IT technician, Maria Jenkins, has launched a new email facility to keep parents up to date on events at the Greensward
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Redditch Speakers Club
THERE was success for the Midlands area at the national competitions. The national conference and AGM was held at the Hanover Island Hotel, Hinckley. Speakers gathered from all around the country to conduct the business of the AGM and then to listen to
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St Mary's Wives Group
THE group held its meeting on April 28 at Wythall Village Hall. Members were welcomed and the meeting opened with the group prayer. As president Miriam Knowles was on holiday, vice-president Sue Barnard took the meeting. Sue reminded members the cost
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New schools on drawing board
PEOPLE have had the first glimpse of plans for an exciting £63 million scheme to build a new first and middle school in Alvechurch. The project, which will see Crown Meadow First School and Alvechurch Middle School rebuilt on one site, was taken a step
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Draws help leaders establish healthy cushion
THE third week of action in the Prudden Road Surfacing League saw reigning champions Stratford B draw away from the pack at the top of the Premier Division after blasting their own C team 4-0. Closest challengers Chipping Campden and Inkberrow were both
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Croft cheer for Vale driver Matt
MATT Nicoll-Jones had a successful weekend at Croft in the AVO Ginetta Cham-pionship when he finished fifth in Sunday's point scoring final. Nicoll-Jones was dogged by mechanical problems all weekend and a loss of power on Saturday meant he only qualified
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Racecourse action offers fun for all the family this month
SATURDAY promises more fantastic action when Worcester Racecourse stages a Family Night at Pitchcroft. The picturesque tree-lined location, on the banks of the river Severn, offers the perfect place to spend your evening with something for everyone. In
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Spoils of season handed out
North Cotswold Dominoes League Sponsored by Waverley TBS Honours 2005 - League: Winners, Plough Inn; runners-up, Crown & Trumpet. Len Court Shield: Round of Gras; Weston Club. Knockout Shield: Round of Gras; Bretforton RBL. Captain & Secretary's
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Homing returns
Evesham and District Flying Club FOURTEEN members sent 126 birds to Pic-auville on May 7, liberated at 9.45am into a blustery north west win. 1 & 2 T Gould 1189.13, 1188.85; 3 G Carter 1184.30; 4 Mrs J Heckingbottom 1177.24; 5 & 6 J Fretwell 1168.95
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Pairs chase crib prize
Evesham & District League THE Super Doubles competition got under way last Monday when 44 pairs were in action at Evesham Rowing Club - all with sights set on the first prize of £75. Eight pairs now remain and they complete the competition at the
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Wind helps Wheelers
EIGHT members of Evesham Wheelers set off with the wind on their backs for Sunday's weekly ride out to Warwick. The group passed through Cleeve Prior and Welford before climbing through Binton and on to Aston Cantlow, Norton Lindsey before a well-earned
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Sweet final success as Josh overcomes dad's conqueror
THE Al Ward Memorial Cup has been the main focus over the past two weeks in the Tewkesbury Pool League when the 16 qualifiers played down to a winner. There was plenty of experience and ability on show as former winners Gary Francis (2003), Glynn Craze
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Cheers to 50 years
BIDFORD'S Darby and Joan Club celebrated its 50th birthday on Friday. Thanks to a legacy from former supporter Ada Roberts Leach, who left the club £3,000 in her will, 88 guests enjoyed a supper and entertainment at the Crawford Memorial Hall. Betty Langston
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Fun for families
TOMORROW promises more fantastic action when Worcester Racecourse stages a Family Night at Pitchcroft. The picturesque tree-lined location, on the banks of the river Severn, offers the perfect place to spend your evening with something for everyone. In
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Count gets off to a dramatic start
MINUTES after the county council count began on Friday morning, the hall at Stratford Leisure Centre had to be evacuated. Confused counters and candidates looked around for guidance before leaving the building where loose ballot papers adorned rows of
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Councillor's tough act to follow
ALCESTER'S new county councillor Nina Knapman has paid tribute to her predecessor after holding on to the seat for the Liberal Democrats in Thursday's elections. Mrs Knapman said she felt she had a tough time ahead of her following in the footsteps of
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Villagers revolt on 'secrecy'
BIDFORD parish councillors came under fire last Tuesday night when residents accused them of being secretive and discussing village business behind closed doors. They were abused and threatened with a takeover as villagers vented their anger over the
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Co-op West Midlands' £3m profits amid slump
THE West Midlands Co-op has defied the recent retail slump to register half-yearly profits of more than £3m. The society announced interim profits of £3.04m for the six months to Saturday, March 26 a 33 per cent increase on the same period last year.
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Maximum 48-hour working week stirs criticism
THE European Parliament yesterday voted to stop the UK opting out of the 48-hour maximum working week. Employees will therefore be restricted to working an average of 48 hours a week. However, the Parliament voted to extend the period which 48 hours must
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Bike trek holidays firm at full throttle
A BIKER who has realised his dream of setting up a travel company with a difference now wants to help others achieve their aspirations. Lee Mears, of Cheviot Close, Blackpole, has set up Kudu Expeditions to take groups of 10 on motorcycling adventures
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A golden event
MEMBERS from the Derby and Joan Club in Bidford celebrated their 50th birthday at the Crawford Hall. The party was held thanks to the generosity of Ada Roberts-Leach, a former member who left a sum of money to the club enabling them to hold the event.
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Progress with the bin bags
I HAVE lived here since 1938, in the days of open coal fires, each day's ashes going into the dust bin in the back garden - no plastic bags in those days. Each week the whistling dustman came down the back garden, hoisted the full dustbin on his shoulder
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We've booked place already
WHERE were you Evesham? On Saturday, April 16 Avonbank Brass Band, conducted by Alan MacRae produced a brilliant evening of well-chosen, well-performed music. It was an evening of toe-tapping hand-clapping music dedicated to the memory of their president
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Back at my desk
The first thing I do as I settle back behind my desk in the House of Commons is to thank my constituents for the very great privilege of being returned once again as your Member of Parliament. The election campaign in Mid Worcestershire was conducted
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Walkabout date
WE read with interest the article on Cropthorne Walkabout (Evesham, Journal, May 5), particularly noting the claim, made by Mr Mumford that their Walkabout was the first open garden event in the area. We feel that in the interest of historical accuracy
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Theatre
Rose, Kidderminster - Hobson's Choice, until Saturday. Edgecliffe School, Kinver - The King and I, until Saturday. Swan, Worcester - Sleuth, Thursday. Three Men in a Boat, Friday and Saturday. Hippodrome, Birmingham - Compagnie Kafig Corps est Graphique
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Exhibitions
MAC, Birmingham - Street Trilogy, Thursday and Saturday. The House by the Lake, Thursday and Saturday. Birmingham Print Makers, Saturday until July 3. The Ballad of Hoa, until June 26. A Boy in a Woman's Body, until June 26. Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
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Unlocking The Lock Up
HEREFORD'S premier alternative music night The Lock Up has gone through the latest stage of its evolution. The night started out at the Jailhouse before moving to the Crystal Rooms (RIP) and then found its latest venue at the compact but cosy Scream.
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Treat for lovers of Amadeus
MOZART lovers are in for a treat this Saturday, as Ludlow Concert Society performs an evening devoted to his work in St Laurence's Church, Ludlow. Patrick Larley conducts the choir, which will be joined by soloists Julie Thomas (soprano), Margaret Davis
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Pershore
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION: The women's section held its monthly meeting last Tuesday. The meeting was opened by chairman Wendy Griffiths, and after the exhortation she welcomed members. Laura Joyce reported on the national conference in Brighton. A list of
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College has golden touch after 50 years
PERSHORE Group of Colleges is celebrating its 50th anniversary and as part of the celebrations students will be designing and building a series of celebratory show gardens as part of their Gold Tour, taking in all the major horticultural and garden shows
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Disability Advice
DIAL South Worcestershire will have a member of staff at Pershore Library on Monday, from 10am to noon and at Elmley Castle Village Hall Post Office on Tuesday, from 10am to noon. They will be providing a free and confidential drop-in advice session for
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Gardens
THE following gardens will be open for charity under the National Gardens Scheme: SUNDAY: March House, Broadway, two miles towards Evesham (A44), teas, from 2pm to 5pm. White Cottage, Stock Green, near Inkberrow, teas, from 10am to 5pm. Stanway Fountain
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Thriller ace's web of intrigue
ONE cobweb no-one wants to spring clean away is the famous Agatha Christie murder mystery Spider's Web. Cheltenham Little Theatre are staging the thriller at the Playhouse Theatre, promising 'something different for young and old alike'. It is set in
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In at the deep end
CARDIFF-based theatre company Earthfall visits Brecon's Theatr Brycheiniog on Monday with its technically ambitious production, At Swim Two Boys. Inspired by Jamie O'Neill's award-winning novel about the deep friendship between two teenage boys, the production
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Light's simply fantastic
AN enthusiastic audience greeted the Berkley Salon Ensemble last Thursday in the Courtyard theatre for a performance that marked the end of another successful season promoted by the Hereford Concert Society. The series has included a number of excellent
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Concerts grace rural churches
WARWICKSHIRE churches will be ringing out with the sounds of special concerts through the summer months. Audiences can enjoy summer's evenings in some of the county's most beautiful churches, listening to some fine music as part of the Concerts in Warwickshire
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Swinging stuff
BARN dance supremos Dampiers Round are coming back to Pershore's Number 8 for another evening of swinging partners and do-si-doing. The event is on Friday, May 20. Call in for tickets or phone 01386 555488.
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Dire Straits founder in concert
AN original Dire Straits family member and a 'self-taught world music phenomenon' are providing a couple of interesting evenings in Worcester next week. Next Wednesday, David Knopfler, brother of Mark and co-founder of Dire Straits, comes to Huntingdon
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Road advice for tractor drivers
WITH silage-making getting under way and more tourists heading for the country as the weather improves, NFU Mutual is warning tractor drivers to take special care on the roads. "Our claims statistics show that accidents involving tractors and other road
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Bittersweet tale of Rita and Frank
A SPRINKLING of glamour has been added to the Courtyard these past weeks, as actors Zoie Kennedy and Stephen McGann have rehearsing for Educating Rita. Stephen, who is 42, and 27-year-old Zoie have been regular lunch partners as they get to grips with
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Chance to tread the boards in Oliver!
HEREFORD Courtyard is looking for adults and children to take part in this autumn's in-house musical, Oliver! Professional actors will take on the roles of the adult main characters, but, as is usual with the Community Company productions, a fair share
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Ruddigore Great Witley Operatic Society Swan Theatre, Worcester
THIS Gilbert and Sullivan masterpiece is performed far too rarely, so it was a pleasure to join in the madness and mayhem. The curse of Ruddigore is that the baronet has to commit a crime a day or die in agony. Ruthven didn't want to inherit the problem
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Little Richard Wolverhampton Civic Hall
THE great voices - those which cut to the heart of American music - be they soul, country, gospel or blues, have all but gone. In the last two years alone we have said goodbye to Johnny Cash and Ray Charles, who have left to join the likes of Elvis and
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Rose Theatre box office
THE telephone number given for The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster, in last week's preview of Hobson's Choice was incorrect. The number to contact is 01562 743745.
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CD - Robert Plant and the Strange Sensation, Mighty Rearranger
NEVER one to rely solely on his Led Zep glories, Plant has produced possibly his best solo work to date. Comparisons to Zeppelin are obvious and you can draw all the parallels you like between his new songs here and various Zep classics. However, on its
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Cinema - Kingdom of Heaven (15)
THE violent age of the 12th century crusades is resurrected Ridley Scott-style in his latest action epic . This film has blockbuster written all over it, with its common man-turned heroic knight plot line, colossal battle scenes and sizzling love triangle
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Theatre - Lost in Yonkers, Wythall Theatre Company, Kingsley Theatre
FOR many years, Wythall Theatre Company has presented popular, high-quality plays at the Palace Theatre. The temporary move to Kingsley posed many problems but they were all overcome. The high standards have been maintained, if not improved. Director
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All that jazz for concert
INSTRUMENTS are at the ready for a performance by Worcestershire Jazz Concert at The Briars Hotel in Kidderminster. The concert, which starts at 8pm on Friday, May 20, will be directed by Ian Hattersley and will feature singer Gary Rutter. Tickets can
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Folk act at jazz club
A FOLK act which regularly tours the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand is dropping into Stourport to perform at the Riverside Folk and Acoustic Club. Jez Lowe and the Bad Pennies will perform at Stourport Boat Club tomorrow night and the doors will
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It's a wrap ... or a scarf ... or a pair of slippers ...
DESIGNER-maker Amy Twigger is a working example of the fruits of Herefordshire Council's Creative Industries initiative. Drawn to Herefordshire from her home in Huddersfield, she was aware of the county's reputation for craft. In September 2004 she was
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Stepping Out - Festival, Malvern
A DISPARATE group meeting for weekly tap dance lessons might not sound like a barrel of laughs but that's exactly what Stepping Out is. The characters' differing backgrounds and personal dilemmas combine in turn to create hilarious, poignant and dramatic
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Orphans - The Other Space, Everyman, Cheltenham
THIS was a brave effort at a difficult and complex play involving characters on the edge of reason. It centred on two dysfunctional young urban Americans, one (Glen Andrews) a violent mugger, his brother (Craig Rogers) a nervous, isolated semi-child,
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Lions hoping for a swell in raft race competitors
A STAGGERING sum of around a quarter of a million pounds has been raised by Kidderminster Lions Raft Race during the last 25 years. The number of people competing in the water-based dash for cash has plummeted in recent years, however, and organisers
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Shaun dives deep for art inspiration
A SCUBA diver's keen interest in conservation is the inspiration behind an art exhibition currently being displayed at Bewdley Museum. Rural Icons by Kidderminster artist Shaun Parrin consists of a host of digital images designed to challenge people's
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Issue is the way we treat people
Malcolm Meikle last week suggests that the Bishop of Worcester seems to advocate a policy of do-as-you-like in society with regard to the Church's stance on the issue of the Travellers. As many of us know and understand the Bishop of Worcester, this would
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Progress with the bin bags
I HAVE lived here since 1938, in the days of open coal fires, each day's ashes going into the dust bin in the back garden - no plastic bags in those days. Each week the whistling dustman came down the back garden, hoisted the full dustbin on his shoulder
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Date
We've booked place already
WHERE were you Evesham? On Saturday, April 16 Avonbank Brass Band, conducted by Alan MacRae produced a brilliant evening of well-chosen, well-performed music. It was an evening of toe-tapping hand-clapping music dedicated to the memory of their president
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Date
Back at my desk
The first thing I do as I settle back behind my desk in the House of Commons is to thank my constituents for the very great privilege of being returned once again as your Member of Parliament. The election campaign in Mid Worcestershire was conducted
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What's On
TONIGHT: Birmingham: Marriott Hotel - Lupa. Symphony Hall - Copenhagen Philharmonic Orchestra. Hippodrome - Music to Watch Girls By. Worcester: Huntingdon Hall - Fairport Convention. Coventry: Warwick Arts Centre - Nitin Sawhney. FRIDAY: Stourport: The
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English greats
BROMYARD and District Choral Society presents music by three great English composers for its final concert this season on Saturday evening. First, four Songs of Farewell by Hubert Parry (1848 to 1918), then the Five Mystical Songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams
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Sedgeberrow
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN'S SECTION: Mr Heritage showed slides and spoke on Evesham Past and Present. He was thanked by Mrs Pratt. Members congratulated Emma on coming third again in National Standards Bearers' competition held at Brighton. Hostesses
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Walks
SUNDAY: Stratford Ramblers - Chedworth, start 10am for a joint walk with Mid Warwickshire group, 12 miles of hilly walking. Details: Brian 01295 670937. Evesham Ramblers - Start 10am for an eight mile walk, through fields and orchards in gentle undulating
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Chemists
BIDFORD: Colin Harris, Bidford Pharmacy, 17 High Street, Mon-Fri, 5.30-6pm. 01789 772433. No rota Sunday and public holidays. BROADWAY: Lloyds Pharmacy, 22 High Street, Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5.30pm. CHIPPING NORTON: Today and tomorrow, Boots the Chemist
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Hospices Lottery
1 (£1,000) 00033, Hereford; 2 (£100) 14433, Inkberrow; 3 (£50) 11433, Droitwich.
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Wonderful reception
On behalf of the Pershore & District branch of the Royal Naval Association, will you please allow me the opportunity of sincerely thanking all the thousands of people who came out to support our military parade and Commemorative Service for the 60th
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Brum in the spotlight
A NOSTALGIC look at life in Brum in the 1950s can be enjoyed with the return of the phenomenally successful Go and Play Up Your Own End at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre later this month. And tickets are selling so well, three additional dates have been
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Fresh and funky
STREET hip hop comes to Birmingham's Hippodrome Theatre next week when "fresh and funky" French dance troupe Compagnie Kafig present Corps est Graphique. Part of the theatre's 2005 Wide World International performance season, Compagnie Kafig features
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It's a likely story!
FORMER Likely Lad Rodney Bewes brings his popular version of Three Men in a Boat to Worcester's Swan Theatre for two nights this week. The well-loved comic novel by Jerome K Jerome has been adapted into a "charming and hilarious one-man show" in which
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What's On Guide
Thursday, May 12 Fairport Convention, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. Tickets from 01905 611427. Two Into War: Gifts of War by Fraser Grace and The Retreating World by Naomi Wallace, The Door, Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Until May 14. Tickets from 0121
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Berkoff's talented eye is on this sceptr'd isle
TOP hats, spats and silver-topped canes - that double as guns or swords - will feature in a Victorian-style production of Shakespeare's Richard II at Ludlow Festival. Director Steven Berkoff said: "Richard was part of an Oxbridge, Harrow, Ascot set who
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Billy in the middle
BOTTLENECK theatre company presents John Barry and Don Black's Billy at Hereford Courtyard from May 18-21. The musical starred Michael Crawford and Elaine Page in its London incarnation in 1974, since when neither star has looked back. Based on the novel
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Ghosh by name, gosh by nature
HEREFORD Courtyard was treated to an additional treat at last week's production of Ruins by Anurekha Ghosh & Co. The 12-minute piece titled Bliss: Song of Pilgrimage was added to the three set pieces which have been touring for the past two months
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Willis is put through its paces for a new generation
THE word "inaugural" has something rather hard and unforgiving about it. But, as the Dean pointed out in his introductory address, the inaugural recital of the Hereford Cathedral organ this was intended rather as a "gala" occasion, with all that word
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A theme of today for a historic play
AN old play with a theme of interest today is opening at the RSC next Wednesday. Believe What You Will is about a Middle Eastern leader who comes out of hiding to reclaim his identity. He has been denied his crown and denounced by the all-powerful Roman
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A tale of murder and treachery
A TALE of murder, treachery, conspiracy and corruption in 17th century south London is all locked up in The Clink, coming to Malvern next week. At the time when Elizabeth I is dying and the Jacobean era is about to begin, the play is set in an area of
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From sitcom serenity to a deadly double act
THE Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham lives up to its name over the next week with a range of theatre for all tastes. The classic farce Arsenic and Old Lace opens on Monday and runs to May 21. It stars Angela Thorne from To the Manor Born, Brigit Forsyth
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Singing star in charity concert
THE world's leading counter-tenor James Bowman has offered to sing at a concert at Pershore Abbey on Saturday, May 28, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief. Bowman was recently voted the experts' expert counter-tenor by his colleagues. He is celebrated for
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MPs warned about rural stress
THE Rural Stress Information Network is sending all newly elected rural MPs a briefing on the causes and effects of rural stress. The briefing will also include a shopping list of proposals aimed at improving awareness and responses to dealing with the
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Award for farmers mindful of wildlife
FARMERS who actively encourage wildlife on their farms are being invited to enter the country's most prestigious farm conservation competition - the 2005 Silver Lapwing Awards. The awards go to farmers who can best demonstrate a commitment to conservation
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Ilmington
PARISH COUNCIL: The April meeting of the parish council, chaired by Cllr Tony Wilkins, heard that two new dog bins had been put up, the broken manhole at the back of Windmill Close had been replaced, and that the Cotswold AONB marker stone at the junction
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Hobson's Choice Rose Theatre, until Saturday
I HAVE never heard such prolonged applause at The Rose, and although this was an excellent production throughout, much of the acclamation on Monday night was aimed directly at the three leads, who are brilliant. Julie Innes is a superb Maggie, the bossiest
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Stepping Out Malvern Theatres until Saturday
PATSY Palmer proved there really is life after Bianca in EastEnders with a stunning display of acting and dancing as tap dance teacher Mavis. Written by Richard Harris, Stepping Out is both funny and moving and, for a dance fan like myself, is also well
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CD - Cream, I Feel Free
THE fact Cream's music is still so vital after 37 years can only be good and this compilation (in one, two and three CD formats) is a testament to the supergroup's enduring appeal and what basically boils down to a mind-boggling talent. Released to coincide
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Entertainers outgrow their village hall
AMATEUR dramatics has proved so popular at Willersey that the village hall is not big enough for the audiences productions now attract. "Thanks to the enthusiasm and hard work of a small number of people and the great interest shown by many young local
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DVD - Garden State (15)
Watching this was a faintly amusing but fleeting experience that required the utmost patience to follow. Director Zach Braff plays Andrew Largeman, an aspiring actor and a waiter at a Vietnamese restaurant. He seems to live an isolated existence until
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DVD - Birth (15)
WHEN her beloved husband Sean drops dead while out jogging, Anna (Nicole Kidman) is inconsolable. Ten years later, as the not-so-merry widow starts to get on with her life, a freaky 10-year-old boy, also called Sean, (Cameron Bright) claims to be the
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Music is the word for talented family
A HARMONIOUS Stourport family is hoping to spread the sound of music throughout Wyre Forest by performing at venues such as hotels and residential homes. The Billington Music Group, which has its own website, consists of Heidi and Mike Billington on keyboard
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Danish cellist gives concert
THE acoustics of an historic church in Kidderminster will add to the atmosphere when a well-known Danish cellist performs a concert with Wyre Forest Symphony Orchestra next month. Troels Svane is playing in orchestra's Summer Concert at St Mary's Church
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What's on in city and county
events/talks May 13 Talk by Nursing Homes Fee Agency, Age Concern, West Street, Leominster, 2pm. 13 Garden Fair, High Town Hereford, 9am-2pm. 01432 260984. 13-15 The Spring Garden Show, Wye Hall, Three Counties Showground, Malvern. 01684 584900. 13-15
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Music capers bring season to a close
AN evening of musical fun and prose celebrating music from every era of the 20th century will bring Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society 2004/2005 season to an energetic end this month. KODS Kapers will be performed at Baxter College in Kidderminster
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Music is the word for talented family
A HARMONIOUS Stourport family is hoping to spread the sound of music throughout Wyre Forest by performing at venues such as hotels and residential homes. The Billington Music Group, which has its own website, consists of Heidi and Mike Billington on keyboard
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Millennium memories
THE first four years of the new Millennium in Cookley are explored in a new book by veteran author Betty Caswell. Cookley In The 21st Century is the retired teacher's 14th book about the village where she has lived for the past 55 years. It includes chapters
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Local decision
I like many candidates, in the Worcestershire County Council elections would like to thank all those people who voted in these local elections. A good turn out gives strength to decisions made at local level. I wish all the successful candidates, and
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Walkabout date
WE read with interest the article on Cropthorne Walkabout (Evesham, Journal, May 5), particularly noting the claim, made by Mr Mumford that their Walkabout was the first open garden event in the area. We feel that in the interest of historical accuracy
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Hail the unsung hero
I would like to pay tribute to my father, Ted Annis, for all the hard work he has put in over the last 20 months to organise the magnificent military parade and open air commemorative service in Pershore on Sunday to celebrate the diamond anniversary
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Bewdley
DESPITE good knocks of 60 and 50 for Jon Boult and Mark Bennett, Bewdley lost by nine wickets to Ombersley in Crusader Worcest-ershire County League Division One. Ombersley won the toss and put Bewdley in to bat with Boult and Bennett soon amassing a
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Cookley
COOKLEY got some self-respect back after the previous week's embarrassing 53 all out by batting out for a creditable draw in their Division Two match at Coombs Wood. The visitors restricted their Halesowen-based opponents in the first half of their innings
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Cutnall Green
STAR Batsman Neil Fletcher helped Cutnall Green to open their Worcestershire County League Division Four campaign with a winning draw against Tenbury. Fletcher started his season with an amazing 194no, to show he means to carry on where he left off last
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Brintons
BRINTONS collapsed to 59-5 against Hewell in a Division Six fixture, but then Lee Waldron (50) and spencer Colley (53no) put on 120 runs for the sixth wicket, enabling them to total 185-6. In reply Hewell reached 82-3 before rain stopped play for the
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Crusader Worcestershire County League results
Results Division One first teams: Bewdley 186-7, Ombersley 187-1; Kington 214, Chaddesley Corbett 92. Division One second teams: Kington 225 Chaddesley Corbett 137-7; Ombersley 177, Bewdley 180-5. Division Two first teams: Coombs Wood 216-5, Cookley 166
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HEAR THE STORIES BEHIND OUR BEST POLICE OFFICERS
TWENTY-FIVE top cops from across South Worcestershire have been presented with honours for their bravery, commitment and determination. They were acknowledged at a ceremony at Worcester Police Station for acts including wrestling with armed robbers and