Archive
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Alcester & District Local History Society
SEEING is Believing - A History of Spectacles, was a delightfully wry and witty talk presented by Harry Scharf. The speaker addressed all aspects of spectacles, from the early invention centuries ago, through to the 1300s when eyeglasses first appeared
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Hands off our players!
BROMSGROVE Rovers' management team has vowed not to lose the club's best players. STAYING PUT? AFC Telford have shown an interest in Rovers midfield dynamo Wayne Dyer. Manager Jimmy Mullen has becoming increasingly concerned about losing some of his star
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Sponsorship hunt
A RUBERY cricket club that focuses on introducing the sport to boys with no experience of it is in urgent need of sponsorship. INVESTMENT NEEDED: Steve Rudge (left) wants sponsor to help Joe Robinson, Matthew Thomas, Matthew Kellett and Paul Rudge carry
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NURSES REWARDED FOR THEIR HARD WORK
THREE Macmillan nurses have been awarded long service medals for their hard work and commitment. Sue Sharp works as the lead for chemotherapy at Worcestershire Royal Hospital while Karen Coles and Jenny Griffiths are Community Macmillan Nurses working
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Musical soldiers search for lost guitarist
TWO former soldiers who formed a band while based in Germany during the first Gulf War are looking for the third long-lost member. Charlie Bevan and Rich 'Spud' Williams are looking for ex-singer and guitarist John Williams, who was from Worcestershire
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Here's the comic who hammers politicians
THEY'VE had audiences in stitches across the globe - and the latest clutch of comedians will soon be bringing their brand of humour to a Worcester venue. Marr's Bar in Pierpoint Street runs the Comedy Zone on the first Thursday of the month, and November's
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Cards will spread bit of goodwill
CITY shoppers preparing for Christmas can now send their loved-ones a festive message and help others at the same time. Worcester's Cards for Good Causes charity shop has now opened its doors and is selling cards in aid 25 different charities. It is the
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It's amazing what you can make with the stuff people chuck out
IT'S the sort of place Blue Peter presenters would have a high old time. All the bits of wood, sticky backed plastic and enough fabric roll ends to make a scale model of Buckingham Palace complete with curtains. It's in Worcester too. Worcestershire Resource
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25/10/05 - Danks' cracker bowls The Oval over
Bedworth United (0) 1 Bromsgrove Rovers (1) 1 ROVERS took a point away from Bedworth but could have had all three if they had taken their chances in an end to end Southern League Division One West game on Tuesday night. On-loan striker Mark Danks had
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22/10/05 - First round slips out of Rovers' grasp
Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Morecambe 2 FA Cup fourth qualifying round BROMSGROVE Rovers' dream of making the FA Cup first round was dashed by efficient Morecambe at the Victoria Ground on Saturday, but the home side acquitted themselves admirably against the
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15/10/05 - Dyer dumps Beaconsfield
Bromsgrove Rovers 3 Beaconsfield SYCOB 2 FA Trophy By Peter McKinney WAYNE Dyer spared Bromsgrove Rovers' blushes as he scored a late winner to see off dogged Beaconsfield SYCOB at the Victoria Ground on Saturday. Dyer bagged his second of the game in
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Keep a rival in check at contest
CHESS players from Worcestershire will go head to head in a special tournament next month in aid of St Richard's Hospice. Worcester City Chess Club is staging the Blitz Chess Tournament on Thursday, November 3, at St Stephen's Church Hall in Droitwich
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Valley farce too much for Brown
AN emotional Rod Brown admits the past few days have been his worst since taking over at the Valley Stadium nearly four years ago. The Redditch United manager quit following Saturday's dire 6-3 defeat at home to Workington but chairman Pat Cremin refused
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Passion returns to earn Reds a draw
Hinckley Utd 1, Redditch Utd 1 REDDITCH manager Rod Brown warned his players their futures were at stake ahead of this midweek trip to Leicestershire. And his battle cry certainly seemed to have the desired effect as the Reds showed some of the passion
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Not such a broody night
Theatre review: Rebecca, at the Festival Theatre, Malvern (until Saturday) SOME lovers of Daphne Du Maurier's classic story will have been delighted with this, others may feel a little let down. A sparse setting was meant to help make the imagination
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Hills alive to the sound of chanting
THE Malvern Hills rise abruptly out of the midland plain like some enormous sea creature, the undulating contours adding to the drama of their appearance. There is indeed something unusual - nay, magical - about this part of Worcestershire. And it's not
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Church face Vase test
ALVECHURCH manager Shaun Cunnington admits his side will be heading into the great unknown when they take on Wellington in Saturday's FA Vase. The Herefordshire side currently lie mid-table in the West Midlands League and, on paper, should be easy pickings
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26/10/05 - Sanderson selected
WARRIORS skipper Pat Sanderson has been named in Andy Robinson's final England squad for the autumn internationals. Worcester team-mate Andy Gomar-sall has been named in the stand-by squad and could come into the reckoning if any of the three scrum-halves
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26/10/05 - Warriors man is free for Wales
PROP Chris Horsman's dreams of a Wales debut could become reality after he was allowed to link up with the nation's autumn Test squad. The Worcester Warriors player pleaded guilty to stamping in an RFU disciplinary hearing last night and was banned for
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26/10/05 - Fortey fit to make the cup trip to Sicily
LEE Fortey is set to return for Warriors in Saturday's European Challenge Cup match against Amatori Catania after recovering from a dislocated shoulder. The 30-year-old passed a fitness test yesterday and has been given the all-clear to fly to Sicily
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Where to go
Wednesday, October 26 MUSIC: Mentallica, The Hibernian, Pershore Road, Stirchley, Birmingham. COMEDY: Stewart Lee - 90s Comedian, MAC, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. Thursday, October 27 MUSIC: Shy and Dante Fox, The Rock Cafe 2000, Miracle Lane, Stourbridge
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Buoyant Bromsgrove give Stafford stuffing
Stafford 1st XI 1 Bromsgrove 1st XI 3 YOUTHFUL Bromsgrove continued their excellent start to the season in the Coaching Solutions Midlands Division One on Saturday, with a comprehensive victory over struggling Stafford. The Boars had been missing a host
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Late surge stuns Spa
Walsall 1st XI 3 Droitwich 1st XI 0 THREE late, late goals denied Droitwich their first points in the Coaching Solutions West Midlands Premier Division on Saturday. Spa had seemed on course for a point as the game entered the last five minutes at 0-0.
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Joe secures top three
CYCLING: Redditch youngsters continue to impress in the West Midlands Cyclo Cross League. In the sixth round, at Lutterworth, Joe Reeves was third in the u12s race with Alex Potts in 25th. Chloe Potts came home 11th in the u10s and Abigail Cox maintained
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Charity call for players
DARTS: Some of the West Midlands' leading players will be in Redditch on Friday to boost a number of good causes. Astwood Bank Winter Darts League will play host to the Sports Argus Charity Team, the action at Ipsley Street's Centrepoint Club starting
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City tickets go on sale
FA Cup tickets will be available to certain sections of the Worcester City faithful on Friday evening. They will be able to buy tickets for the November 5 first round visit to Chippenham on a one-per-person basis at the St George's Lane social club from
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25 years ago - October 24, 1980
A GANG of travelling shoplifters has descended on Redditch and is stripping local shops. One shop lost £700 of stock in a day and now local traders have been warned to look out for the gang. Sergeant Colin West, and town crime prevention officer, told
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50 years ago - October 28, 1955
A FIRE at Ditchford Bank Farm between Bentley, near Redditch, and Hanbury, caused the death of nearly 100 pigs on Saturday. The farmer, Mr R Granger, said he knew nothing of the blaze until wakened by a man and a woman who had apparently seen the glow
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100 years ago - October 28, 1905
GEORGE Latham, bricklayer, Alvechurch, was admitted to Smallwood hospital on Saturday, suffering from injuries sustained in a cycling accident. Latham was returning home from Redditch, and rode at a fair speed down Prospect Road. Near the bottom of the
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Stunned by six of the best
Redditch Utd 3, Workington 6 ANY thoughts Redditch had of building on their midweek heroics at Hinckley went out of the window as they crashed to an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Conference North newcomers Workington. The home side left the field
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Daunting test for Millers
Football: Midland Combination FECKENHAM'S roller-coaster season continued at the weekend when they crashed to a 4-1 defeat at a Bolehall Swifts side they had already beaten earlier in the season. And manager Lee Adams knows his side face a testing week
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22/10/05 - Late flurry downs Boars
Bromsgropve 25 Walsall 38 Midlands Division One BROMSGROVE produced their most effective performance of the season on Saturday, but were stunned by two late Walsall tries as their nightmare start in the Midlands Division One continued. The Boars remain
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22/10/05 - Polished Droitwich show true potential
Droitwich Spa 23 Old Hales 3 Midlands Division Four West South DROITWICH'S rebuilding process continued to progress smoothly as the rejuvenated side produced their most impressive performance of the season so far on Saturday. Spa have been showing signs
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Corbett cull Boars
Bromsgrove U7s 15 Chaddesley Corbett U7s 25 JAMES Smalley bagged a brace of tries for the Boars, while Charlie Marshall also scored. Bromsgrove U7s 20 Chaddesley Corbett U7s 20 IN their second game Bromsgrove held Corbett, with Jonathon Hawkins, Smalley
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Poppy sellers are urgently needed
HELP! November 11 draws closer and this is the day when we remember people who gave their lives in two World Wars, and other conflicts, that we who are alive today may live in a free and democratic land. The Royal British Legion (Aston Fields Branch)
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Dedicated
RECENT years have seen me make increasing use of the area NHS facilities, especially the Alex but also the clinics and minor injuries unit at the Princess of Wales Communuity Hospital, and even Worcester, not to mention my local GP surgery. I am basically
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Pruning
AS an ex-hospital worker until I retired (Bromsgrove General 1963-1983), might I suggest that an excellent way for the local health trust to save money would be to severely prune many departmental managers (re-introduce hospital secretary and matron)
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Won't travel
THANK you for your 'Save Our Services' campaign regarding the hospital proposals. This year, while cutting a hedge in my garden I had something go into my eye. I went to the Bromsgrove local hospital, unfortunately they couldn't see to it. So I had to
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Grateful to the Alex
BOTH my wife and I strongly object to the proposals for the transfer of health care sections from our local hospitals. We have a particular reason for supporting the fight to save the services at the Alex. It was towards the end of June. Four days before
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Hazardous
I HAVE been following the letters from worried residents concerning the apparent road traffic hazard at the junction of Shrubbery Road/Worcester Road. I expect I shall incur the wrath of the county council portfolio holder for highways but it seems that
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25/10/05 - Hands off our players!
BROMSGROVE Rovers' management team has vowed not to lose the club's best players. STAYING PUT? AFC Telford have shown an interest in Rovers midfield dynamo Wayne Dyer. Manager Jimmy Mullen has becoming increasingly concerned about losing some of his star
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22/10/05 - First round slips out of Rovers' grasp
Bromsgrove Rovers 0 Morecambe 2 FA Cup fourth qualifying round BROMSGROVE Rovers' dream of making the FA Cup first round was dashed by efficient Morecambe at the Victoria Ground on Saturday, but the home side acquitted themselves admirably against the
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Junior football round-up
Rubery U7s 0 Glebe Farm U7s 0 RUBERY struggled to open up a determined Glebe Farm side. Lickey End U8s 3 Astwood U8s 0 MAN of the match Michael Hewitt, Brad Knight and Dan McArdle hit the back of the net. Sheldon Royals U8s 0 Swifts U8s 2 RHYS Evans scored
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22/10/05 - Villa can't weather Heather
Fairfield Villa 1 Heather Athletic 2 TWO second half goals saw Villa lose in the Midland Combination Division One on Saturday. Villa, missing goalkeeper Dave Inman, had to use defender Richard Coulson in goal. Rob Walsh scored on his debut for Fairfield
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22/10/05 - Late goals stuns Spa
Droitwich Spa 1 Warwick Town 1 A LAST gasp goal robbed Droitwich FC of their first win of the season in the Midland Combination Division Two on Saturday. Spa had been seconds away from a vital victory, which may have kick-started their escape from the
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23/10/05 - Town tame Freemasons
BROMSGROVE Town thrashed Freemasons 9-0 in the second round of the Bridgewater Cup on Sunday. Gaffney (3), Marsh (2), Cox, Butler and Harries hit the back of the net for Town. Rubery RBL also got amongst the goals, beating Nailers Arms 7-2, with Drummond
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23/10/05 - General charge to win
BROMSGROVE General progressed into the second round on the BRT Terry Cup by defeating Arrow Valley 4-1 on Sunday. Rednal Social thrashed The Gate 9-1to give themselves a massive boost in the cup. Hoolahans lost 5-2 to Webheath in the first round of the
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Bromsgrove Rovers Football Club - Match Stats - 2005/2006
GOALSCORERS 5 - Hadland, Banner. 4 - Dyer, Danks. 3 - Curtis, Barnes-Homer. 2 - Smith, Ramsay. 1 - Collins, Johnson, Mitchell, Maguire, Szewczyk. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 3 - Hadland 3 - Dyer 3 - Johnson 1 - Evans 2 - Banner 1 -
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Big brother keeps on the Crucible
CONTEMPORARY effects and timeless writing meet in perfect harmony for the Palace Youth Theatre's production of Arthur Miller's classic The Crucible. In the groups most ambitious work Miller's warning tale of a peaceful community that is torn apart by
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Religion and science collide in seering drama
WELL known television and stage actor Timothy West is to bring his considerable presence to bear at the Birmingham Rep when he plays the title lead in The Life of Galileo. This powerful productions charts the battle between Galileo's vision and how it
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26/10/05 - Fantastic evening to remember
MONDAY night was terrific -- one of those special nights that Worcester City supporters will remember forever. I honestly believe beating Accrington Stanley, in current circumstances, represents one of the biggest results in our club's history. If you
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Thanks God, yet he's an unbeliever
SIR - May I please ask Gary Webb why he states "thank God for atheism." How come he wishes to thank "God" when he does not believe in him? MRS E COPSON, Droitwich.
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It's either political decision or it isn't
SIR - At the meeting for the proposed amalgamation of Warndon Infant & Junior schools, Councillor Liz Eyre, when asked if the merger was a political decision, replied rather indignantly that it was not. So why was it revealed at the governors' meeting
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Glamour, gears and gaskets
PETROL heads in need of a fix of classic cars and vintage bikes should look no further than the Classic Motorshow at the NEC between November 4 and 6. The show will be packed with all manner of classic cars and some of the most famous vehicles in the
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Journey of self
WORCESTER'S Arts Workshop is the venue for Mobius Dance Company's performance of new show Mould on October 29 (2pm night). The show is a tale of self-discovery by five individuals who form relationships and look deeper into memories, attraction and the
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Temptation, thy name is woman
SIR - As a celibate but contented bachelor I ask, regarding Lifestyle (October 13) why, oh why, are women so darned expensive? Do they think of nothing else but their appearance? Vanity of vanities, all is vanity. Temptation, thy name is woman. GEORGE
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The Bromsgrove Society
a coach-load of 40 lucky members of The Bromsgrove Society were escorted round the extensive gardens and grounds of Hewell Grange, once the home of the Earl and Countess of Plymouth. Hewell Grange was built between 1891 and 1894 and was the last of the
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Parking was at twice the price
SIR - I visited Hereford Hospital to visit a patient. The parking was £1.50 for three hours. Taking a patient to Worcester Royal Hospital, I discovered the parking was £3 for three hours. That is 100 per cent dearer. How can the Worcestershire Hospital
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Attack on hunting won't help the fox
SIR - As a life member of the RSPCA for 50 years and a former national Chairman (1969-75), I have watched the attack on hunting with dismay. Though hunting must cause some suffering to the animals concerned, this is not the point. Improvements in animal
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Halls alive to the sound of music
SIR - I was most interested to read your recent revelation about Sir Edward Elgar (Worcester News, Tuesday, October 18). A short while ago I was taking a doze in the armchair when I awakened to the sound of glorious music, totally unfamiliar to me. I
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Spadesbourne Ladies Club
Cheerful chairman Betty Long greeted 65 members and visitors to the October meeting at the Bromsgrove Golf Centre commenting on how nice it was to see such a happy crowd of ladies. Joan English reported on a very successful trip to Highgrove in September
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A brighter Connexion
A GROUP of talented young people have transformed a town office into a work of art.A brush with success: Stacey Zillman, Ann McKernan and Keely Troth with the artwork. The group on an E2E entry to employment programme at NEW College was asked for its
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It adds up
PUPILS and parents at Catshill First School had fun by numbers at a special numeracy workshop. Parents helped their children answer number related questions and they found the answers dotted around the school as part of a number trail. The school's Jackie
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Ashburn kicks 'Rush to glory
Rugby: North Mids One South Woodrush 9 Kings Norton 3 WOODRUSH climbed off the foot of the league with this narrow victory over neighbours Kings Norton. Three Dan Ashburn penalties steered the home side to the points but there were enough chances for
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Play outside
CHILDREN at a Charford playgroup are celebrating now they have a new outside play area. Sugarbrook at St Andrew's group, which is based in Lyttleton Avenue, received a grant of £7,000 from Community First for the work. Before the revamp, the area outside
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Sin bin misery
Rugby: Warwickshire One Southam 24 Alcester 5 IN the first meeting of the two sides at 1st XV level since the Warwickshire Shield final nine seasons ago, Alcester slipped to their fourth league defeat of the campaign. An early yellow card for Alcester
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Triple triumph
A TALENTED teenager scooped a host of dance titles at a top contest. Jodie Young, aged 18, of Papworth Drive, Bromsgrove, scooped the trios, pairs and solo titles at the East Coast Championships. The freestyle dancer is studying for a dance diploma at
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Time to remember
BROMSGROVE'S annual Poppy Appeal is being launched this Saturday. On Friday, November 11, two minutes' silence will be held at the Oddfellows Memorial, near the Housman statue in the town centre, at 11am. The Remembrance Day parade is on Sunday, November
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Pup story set to run and run
A POPULAR Bromsgrove children's author is set to release the ninth book in a popular series which has proved a hit in Australia and South Korea. Tony Maddox, of Hardbrook Court, has already started book number ten in the series based around his character
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Checks snare danger vehicles
FIFTEEN town drivers were stopped by police as part of a new crackdown on unsafe cars. And while nine out of the 15 vehicles examined were found to be in perfect order, meeting the requirements for road safety, the remaining six tested had serious defects
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Harvest
STEPPING Stones Nursery helped out the homeless at its harvest festival. The nursery, based at Meadows First School, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove, donated food to The Basement Project, which is a group supporting the homeless, and young victims of abuse
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Have a safe Halloween
BROMSGROVE children are being urged to follow a trick or treat code of practice this Halloween. Town police say although the event is an exciting time for youngsters, there are potential hazards in children being out trick or treating at night. Trick
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Coming-of-age was celebrated in style
THIS coming Friday will herald the centenary of a grand party thrown by Lord and Lady Windsor, at Hewell Grange, for the estate's workpeople and their families. The event was held to celebrate the coming of age of their son, Other Robert Windsor-Clive
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It's rhyme time
WORD loving pupils at a town school took part in a special poetry event. Visitors from Poetry Slam, a company that works with adults and schools to perform poetry, attended Whitford Hall and Dodderhill School, Crutch Lane on Friday, October 21. Members
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Charity cards
DROITWICH Spa's annual Cards for Good Causes shop has again opened for business. The shop is based at the town library in Victoria Square and will sell charity cards and other gifts during the run up to Christmas. Cards from charities including Save the
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Place your bets on the fastest ferrets
DROITWICH Ferret Welfare is among several local charities to benefit from the new sport of ferret racing. John Duggan, a professional ferreter and a keen supporter of the local ferret welfare, started racing his ferrets earlier this year. John said: "
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Jacqui rap for review panel
CAMPAIGNS to stop the downgrading of the Alexandra Hospital have stepped up a gear with MP Jacqui Smith accusing health chiefs over inadequate Redditch representation. In a letter to hospitals trust chairman Michael O'Riordan, Ms Smith expressed "disappointment
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Doctors reject 'unsound' plan
DOCTORS have united to "utterly reject" proposals to cut vital services at the Alexandra Hospital. Redditch GPs are among Worcestershire Local Committee members who have slammed proposals to downgrade the Alex and transfer a number of departments, including
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Catwalk fame is calling
A REDDITCH teenager has proved her face could be her fortune after securing a place in the national final of a hotly contested model competition organised by a high street retailer. Victoria James, 18, of Brockhill, has beaten off competition from hundreds
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'Snog' teacher tells of ordeal
THE teacher formerly from Redditch who was found guilty of kissing a teenage pupil has spoken of her ordeal via the popular website Friends Reunited. Shelley White has posted a message on the site following her conviction at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday
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Spooky stories
FANS of things which go bump in the night will be interested in a haunting new book recounting tales of spooks and spectres that residents have claimed occupy Redditch. prepares for the Halloween launch of Anne Bradford's new spooky book. Town author
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Alex votes cast
A BALLOT to enable Redditch families to have their say on the future of the Alexandra Hospital is in full swing across the town. Residents can cast their votes in a number of Redditch Council-owned venues, including the town hall, One Stop Shops, community
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Fury at home plan
FURIOUS Winyates residents claim Redditch councillors rubber-stamped controversial plans for a home for adults with learning difficulties just months after deeming it inappropriate for the area. Residents in Hentland Close feel the council's planning
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Wardens cash sparks controversy
A TOTAL of £120,000 has been earmarked for new neighbourhood wardens - in a move that has seen Redditch's leading party slammed for "off the cuff" decision-making. The decision to employ four full-time wardens to crack down on antisocial behaviour, crime
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Vandals strike again
THOUGHTLESS vandals have again attacked Plymouth Road Memorial garden, which is undergoing major refurbishment work in time for Remembrance Day. Vandals have lifted large areas of turf behind the cenotaph, hours after council contractors laid it. This
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Set to have a blast
REDDITCH people can enjoy some fantastic firework displays next weekend. One, organised by Redditch Lions, will be at The Nevill Arms, Evesham Road, Astwood Bank, on Friday, November 4, and will benefit several charities. The bonfire will be lit at 7pm
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Garden to be spruced up
VOLUNTEERS will work their green-fingered magic on the Alexandra Hospital's Memorial Garden for Babies on Saturday. The hospital's League of Friends is joining forces with the Community Services Volunteers (CSV) Action Desk to get the garden in shape
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ASBOs for pair
ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour orders were imposed on two Woodrow residents by Redditch magistrates on Monday. The application, made by Redditch Council against Jayne Neade, of Bushley Close, and Andrew Taylor, of Woodrow Centre, came after a number of complaints
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New desk is on the pulse
DISC jockeys at Hospital Radio Pulse are getting to grips with a brand new mixing desk. out the new equipment. The desk, which was bought with Advertiser readers' donations which totalled more than £4,000, was installed earlier this month. Pulse spokesman
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Bogus cleaner alert
A MAN posing as a window cleaner has been targeting offices in Redditch, Studley, Alcester and Bidford, stealing purses, laptops and mobile phones. Police are appealing for information following a spate of thefts from offices and other premises across
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Hurt driver cut free
FIREFIGHTERS had to cut a driver out of a car following a crash in Hewell Lane, Tardebigge, on Sunday. The crash took place at 7.16am and the fire crew had to remove the roof from the car and lift the casualty onto a spinal support board. The motorist
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CD - Come and Get It - Rachel Stevens
REVIEWING a bad album or film is not too bad, but trying to write about a mediocre album is even harder. Rachel Stevens may ooze sex appeal on stage, but her second album does not quite live up to its title and will definitely not make you want to "go
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DVD - Dominion - prequel to The Exorcist (15)
THERE may be some confusion about this review so something needs to be explained. Yes, there was a review in the Advertiser of the Exorcist prequel many months ago. This version was actually made before that one but producers deemed this version not scary
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CD - As Is Now - Paul Weller
MORE than four decades after first hitting the charts with The Jam, Paul Weller is still churning out the tunes. His style has changed over the years but he still carries a clout as this latest offering shows. The sleeve notes say this album is dedicated
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Bickerton shines with Mallorca magic
DROITWICH'S John Bickerton picked up £16,000 for coming eleventh in the Mallorca Classic over the weekend. Bickerton closed with a level par 70 to finish with a four-round total of 278, which is two-under-par. The professional started strongly with a
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Top award for sound show
A POPULAR Alvechurch musical extravaganza has received a top award to continue its community efforts. Sound show Mindfire was recently granted the prestigious UnLtd Millenium Award, enabling it to branch out further in showcasing local talents. Concert
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Herd gets to work
A DEDICATED new team of workers has moo-ved into a Feckenham nature reserve. Wylde Moor Nature Reserve, run by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, recently welcomed a herd of seven longhorn cattle. The cattle will graze at the reserve for the winter months
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Thinking pink
GLAMOUR pusses at NEW College were in the pink for a worthwhile cause. Students of the college's Fusion Salon held a special pink day in aid of Breast Cancer Care and Cancer Research UK on October 17. The salon was decked with pink balloons and flowers
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Developing African links
INKBERROW First School has been awarded almost £5,000 to develop links with African schools. The Main Road school was selected to receive the first part of a three-year Global Curriculum Project Grant for its work with the Goodnews and Kansenshi Basic
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Computer lessons
TECHNOPHOBES have the opportunity to become IT friendly thanks to some new classes starting at Woodrush Community High School in Hollywood. The Shawhurst Lane school will be starting courses of free computer lessons for people of ages. On Tuesdays from
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Training on menu
A COURSE in behaviour management for dinner ladies will be held at St Stephen's First School on Monday. The free session, which will be lead by a trainer from Leapwade, is open to anyone already working as a lunchtime supervisors, or who has aspirations
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100 years ago October 28, 1905
THE swallows were unusually late departing for warmer climes, correspondent E Humphreys, from Rock House, Bromsgrove, observed. He wrote to the Messenger to say he had seen several near his house only last week. It raised the question, he said, of whether
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50 years ago October 29, 1955
BROMSGROVE Court Leet's annual dinner, hosted by Bailiff Howard Wood, was held at the Golden Cross Hotel. One hundred guests attended what was one of the longest and most lavish dinners of recent years. A feature was the chef's ceremonial entrance bearing
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Hefty fine for Swan's songs
THE former landlords of the Swan Hotel have been fined £1,237 for playing music at the venue without a licence. Paul Convey and Paula Martin were also banned from playing music at any premises after playing tracks on a CD player and jukebox without a
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Pupils have the write idea!
A SPECIAL guest visited Our Lady's RC Primary School last week. The St Faith's Road school welcomed local author Barry Wade, who ran an assembly for parents and pupils. He then spent a day working with the children, talking about reading and writing stories
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Showing their skills
ALCESTER'S popular art caf - Venue Xpresso - is presenting more live artists to demonstrate their skills. The High Street coffee house recently hosted a demonstration by local artist Bill Bayley and is set to welcome Peter Kotka this Friday. Owner Carol
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Sheets stolen in yard raid
THIEVES made off with eight pallets of aluminium sheets worth about £1,000 after breaking into a yard at Arden Forest Industrial Estate. The thieves climbed an 8ft fence into the yard at Roba Metals Ltd on Kinwarton Farm Road between 5pm last Friday and
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How could this save money?
I CANNOT say how disgusted I am at the prospect of losing all these services at the Alexandra Hospital. How can anyone think of expecting a town of this size to do without an A&E department, not to mention maternity, paediatrics and cancer surgery
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I'm still alive thanks to A&E
LIKE the majority of the people of Redditch, I was amazed and very angry at the proposed transfer of the A&E at the Alexandra Hospital to Worcester. I know only too well how important it is. Just before Christmas 2004, I was taken very ill and I was
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Maternity unit much needed
IN 2001, our daughter, Alice, was born in the Alex during a particularly busy August Bank Holiday. As a first time mother, I was so grateful to the midwives for their experience, patience and understanding in helping me through a long labour and birth
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Keep away, Dr Taylor
I WAS sad to see Wyre Forest independent MP Dr Richard Taylor offering to help to unseat our MP. Jacqui Smith is at the forefront of the campaign to save services at the Alex. Unlike Kidderminster, which acted too late to save its hospital, we in Redditch
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Charity dinner
ALCESTER fundraiser Lynda Loomes has raised £13,000 at this year's charity dinner. The Pink Ribbon Dinner was held at the Stratford Manor Hotel to raise cash for breast cancer charities. She said: "The money will be split between the Warwick Hospital
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New appeal on shopping centre boy
WORCESTER police have repeated an appeal for the parents of a boy approached by a man in CrownGate Shopping Centre to come forward and help with their enquiries. They issued a description of the boy last Monday, October 17, but despite wide media publicity
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I'll be healing in the Hills if my Buddhist nunnery opens
BUDDHIST nuns could make their home in the Malvern Hills if plans to set up a £3m nunnery and clinic for complementary medicine come to fruition. Venerable Tsuiltrim Tenzin Choesang - who was ordained by Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama - about eight
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I want to find the family that gave me my life back
A WOMAN whose life was saved thanks to a donated kidney 25 years ago is desperately trying to trace the family that gave her a second chance at life. The Worcester News reported last month how Sue Weaver, from Winch-combe Drive, Blackpole, Worcester,
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Redditch Art Circle
OUR speaker, Tim Fisher, was delayed by traffic problems on the motorway but the meeting proceeded with announcements on forthcoming exhibitions and on our plan to complement our video library with a library of books on art topics. Our chair, Barbara
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Redditch Speakers Club
AT the third meeting of the club it was pleasing to welcome back three people who had attended the open meeting, together with another potential new member. The meeting was admirably chaired by Joan Witherington Perkins. Kashmir Garton gave a speech demonstrating
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26/10/05 - City tickets go on sale
FA Cup tickets will be available to certain sections of the Worcester City faithful on Friday evening. They will be able to buy tickets for the November 5 first round visit to Chippenham on a one-per-person basis at the St George's Lane social club from
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Everywomans Circle
ON September 8 chairman Jenny Johnson welcomed a large gathering of members to the first meeting of the autumn programme. The speaker shared a memorable holiday she had taken in Japan visiting many areas including Kyoto, Nara, Tokyo, Hiroshima and others
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Friends of Coughton Court
AT the last meeting, Ray Saunders-Cook spoke about ancient ceremonies at the Tower of London. After a shaky start with a faulty projector which, after showing a close-up of a raven, promptly died, Mr Cook gave a fascinating talk about his service at the
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Cookhill & District Gardening Association
ON October 10 the association held its first AGM. Chairman David Morgan gave an overview of a very successful first year. He thanked the committee for their efforts and members who had contributed to the various events. He said the interest and enthusiasm
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Not such a broody night
Theatre review: Rebecca, at the Festival Theatre, Malvern (until Saturday) SOME lovers of Daphne Du Maurier's classic story will have been delighted with this, others may feel a little let down. A sparse setting was meant to help make the imagination
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Where to go
Wednesday, October 26 MUSIC: Mentallica, The Hibernian, Pershore Road, Stirchley, Birmingham. COMEDY: Stewart Lee - 90s Comedian, MAC, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. Thursday, October 27 MUSIC: Shy and Dante Fox, The Rock Cafe 2000, Miracle Lane, Stourbridge
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Witchhunt play gets the Big Brother treatment
THE Palace Youth Theatre is proud to present its latest offering - a brand new version of Arthur Miller's classic The Crucible. The group will perform the updated production of the classic tale from tomorrow until Saturday at Kingsley Theatre, Woodrow
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Going with a bang!
STUDLEY Parish Church has teamed up with national theatre company Riding Lights to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder plot. The company is set to perform Remember, Remember, based on the tragedy of the Gunpowder Terror in 1605, to an audience
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Fun girls' night out
FOR an evening of girlie laughs and songs, Malvern Theatres has combined the talents of top trio Mari Wilson, Barb Jungr and Claire Martin to present Girl Talk. They have joined forces in this humorous show - the "soundtrack to any girl's life" - to performing
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Journey of self
WORCESTER'S Arts Workshop is the venue for Mobius Dance Company's performance of new show Mould on October 29 (2pm night). The show is a tale of self-discovery by five individuals who form relationships and look deeper into memories, attraction and the
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Cinema - Serenity (15)
THE maker of Buffy the Vampire Slayer has created a new breed of science fiction film - fast-paced, emotionally gripping and generally impressive. Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion), captain of the spaceship Serenity and its crew of renegades, is on the
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Bromsgrove & District Flower Arranging Society
AT our meeting on September 15, we were delighted to welcome Jayne Edmonds, whose demonstration was entitled "Listen With Your Eyes". Joan demonstrated six lovely arrangements with a musical theme, which were raffled at the end of the demonstration. Our
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Danks' cracker bowls The Oval over
Bedworth United (0) 1 Bromsgrove Rovers (1) 1 ROVERS took a point away from Bedworth but could have had all three if they had taken their chances in an end to end Southern League Division One West game on Tuesday night. On-loan striker Mark Danks had
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Dry, but not home, the wedding party hit by a hurricane
A WORCESTER wedding party arrived safe but shaken in the Dominican Republic yesterday after fleeing hurricane-torn Cancun. The group contacted family in the city to let them know they had escaped the 150mph winds and flash floods of hurricane Wilma alive
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Amanda must pick up the pieces once again
A WOMAN is facing a bill of up to £1,000 after a lorry driver crashed into the back of her parked car and then drove off. Amanda Sherwin Brown, of Wakeman Street, off Droit-wich Road, Worcester, said this is not the first time this has happened. Not only
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Why baths will be a thing of the past in homes of the future
BY 2020, two-car families and hot baths could be some of the modern luxuries consigned to history, experts have warned. The message from the Energy Saving Trust comes as the nation marks energy-saving week this week. The trust's new report reveals how
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We're taking on K2, but without risking frostbite
DOZENS of local climbers are set to climb K2, the second highest mountain in the world, for the charity WaterAid - but they will be doing it right here in the centre of Worcestershire at Sport Martley climbing centre. Alan Hinkes may be the only Briton
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Your TV vote can win cash for town
A TOWN'S mayor is backing a bid for Lottery funds to remind people of their industrial heritage. Coun Richard Morris has urged Droitwich people to "help put the Wych back into Droitwich Spa" by voting for a scheme to build a replica Wych barge in Vines
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Stunned by six of the best
Redditch Utd 3, Workington 6 ANY thoughts Redditch had of building on their midweek heroics at Hinckley went out of the window as they crashed to an embarrassing defeat at the hands of Conference North newcomers Workington. The home side left the field
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Roaring night with 'Motorcycle Club'
Music Review: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, at the Birmingham Irish Club, Digbeth. WHEN the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club opted for change with Americana influenced third album 'Howl', Bob Dylan was cited as a major influence. So it was fitting that their
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Tormented neighbourhood
Film review - Four Brothers at the UGC Cinema, Great Park, Rubery FROM the mean streets of Detroit, to the tangled paths of inner family relations, a family struggle that director John Singleton (Boyz N the Hood, 2 fast 2 furious) is currently portraying
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Vandals smash centre window
VANDALS smashed a window at Church Hill Community Centre causing £100 damage. The window of the Loxley Close centre was broken last Monday between 9.25-9.45pm. PC Jessica Loxley said: "It may be that someone in the area at the time heard the glass smash
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25/10/05 - Hands off our players!
BROMSGROVE Rovers' management team has vowed not to lose the club's best players. STAYING PUT? AFC Telford have shown an interest in Rovers midfield dynamo Wayne Dyer. Manager Jimmy Mullen has becoming increasingly concerned about losing some of his star
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Valley farce too much for Brown
AN emotional Rod Brown admits the past few days have been his worst since taking over at the Valley Stadium nearly four years ago. The Redditch United manager quit following Saturday's dire 6-3 defeat at home to Workington but chairman Pat Cremin refused
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Opening series win for Tonks
AFTER a comfortable win at the Claire Powell track meeting, Bromsgrove and Redditch racewalker Sharon Tonks anticipated a 'Battle Royal' in the first Winter League race at Warwick University. Commonwealth silver medallist Lisa Kehler, of Wolverhampton
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Spirited seconds earn point
Bromsgrove 2nd XI 2 Walsall 2nd XI 2 BROMSGROVE came from behind to secure their first point of the season at home to Walsall on Saturday. The Boars had been trailing 2-0 after a powerful start by Walsall, but showed fighting spirit to take a point. Captain
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Taylor bags treble chance
Hockey: Womens Wednesbury 0 Redditch 8 REDDITCH sailed into the next round of the All England Vase Competition with this excellent away win. An Angela Taylor penalty corner strike and Becky Southwell's fine shot was the difference at half-time. The second
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Fortey fit to make the cup trip to Sicily
LEE Fortey is set to return for Warriors in Saturday's European Challenge Cup match against Amatori Catania after recovering from a dislocated shoulder. The 30-year-old passed a fitness test yesterday and has been given the all-clear to fly to Sicily
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Warriors man is free for Wales
PROP Chris Horsman's dreams of a Wales debut could become reality after he was allowed to link up with the nation's autumn Test squad. The Worcester Warriors player pleaded guilty to stamping in an RFU disciplinary hearing last night and was banned for
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Sanderson selected
WARRIORS skipper Pat Sanderson has been named in Andy Robinson's final England squad for the autumn internationals. Worcester team-mate Andy Gomar-sall has been named in the stand-by squad and could come into the reckoning if any of the three scrum-halves
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Boddy targets crowds boost
DAVE Boddy is banking on Worcester City's FA Cup heroics to spark an upsurge in St George's Lane attendances. More than 1,300 supporters went wild with delight on Monday night as City pulled off one of their greatest cup comebacks. After trailing by two
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What's On Guide
Thursday, October 27 The Rat Pack - Live from Las Vegas, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry. Until October 29. Tickets on 024 7655 3055 or www.belgrade.co.uk Of All The People In All The World (UK), Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry. Until October 29. Free entry.
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United survive penalty drama
GUY Ipoua leapt off the bench to score the winning penalty which sent Hereford United through to the FA Cup first round last night. Their 4-3 victory at Alfreton Town on spot-kicks, with the game tied at 1-1 in extra-time, was also down to two shoot-out
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North Midlands eye U20 trophy triumph
NORTH Midlands Under-20s Development squad will take a 16 points advantage into the second leg of their showdown with Warwickshire for the Sable's Head Trophy at Moseley's new Billesley ground tonight (7.30pm). North Midlands, who relinquished the trophy
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Worcestershire hit by opening defeat
WORCESTERSHIRE were desperately unlucky to lose their opening match in this season's Midland Counties Youth Football Championship. They went down by the odd goal in three when entertaining Lincolnshire at Pershore Town. Lincolnshire took an eighth minute
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Passion returns to earn Reds a draw
Hinckley Utd 1, Redditch Utd 1 REDDITCH manager Rod Brown warned his players their futures were at stake ahead of this midweek trip to Leicestershire. And his battle cry certainly seemed to have the desired effect as the Reds showed some of the passion
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Stanley's winner
Football: Juniors REDDITCH United Girls u16s ran out 1-0 winners at Crusaders, Jessica Stanley bagging the all-important goal. The visitors continued to dominate but failed to add to their tally. The u14s were 4-1 winners at Stratford Town despite their
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Five star Olympic test
Football: Women's round-up Redditch VC 1 Burlish Olympic 5 REDDITCH VC lost their first home game of this season on Sunday although the final score flattered their opponents. VC dominated the early exchanges but failed to take their chances. Tara Cook
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Boss blasts his selfish forwards
Football: Midland Alliance FRUSTRATED Studley manager Kevin Rowlands will sit down with his players this week in a bid to stamp out the selfish streak running through the side. Title hopefuls Quorn grabbed the points on Saturday when a last gasp winner
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Witchhunt play gets the Big Brother treatment
THE Palace Youth Theatre is proud to present its latest offering - a brand new version of Arthur Miller's classic The Crucible. The group will perform the updated production of the classic tale from tomorrow until Saturday at Kingsley Theatre, Woodrow
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Date
Going with a bang!
STUDLEY Parish Church has teamed up with national theatre company Riding Lights to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder plot. The company is set to perform Remember, Remember, based on the tragedy of the Gunpowder Terror in 1605, to an audience
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Fun girls' night out
FOR an evening of girlie laughs and songs, Malvern Theatres has combined the talents of top trio Mari Wilson, Barb Jungr and Claire Martin to present Girl Talk. They have joined forces in this humorous show - the "soundtrack to any girl's life" - to performing
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Worcester can't cope
I CANT believe this acute health authority is considering downgrading the hospital services in Redditch. I have worked in Critical Care for a number of years and the services we offer the community is excellent. How on earth will the Worcesterhire Royal
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Dues are all paid
SINCE I started work at age 15 in 1942, I have paid my taxes, unemployment stamps and social security dues continuously until retirement, apart from three years service in the Army before and after VE day I now continue to pay income and community taxes
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Pensions nosedive
IN reply to Neil Holmes' letter regarding the Chancellor's proposals to allow properties, with tax incentives, to be included in private pension schemes perhaps Neil, and your readers, may like to consider the following issues: Gordon Brown's decision
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Real hero
ON a recent visit to Bognor Regis I came upon a plaque commemorating an act of heroism with a local connection. It recorded that in 1946 Walter Erskine Prior was killed while dealing with an unexploded mine on the foreshore at Aldwick 'having first ensured
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25/10/05 - Danks' cracker bowls The Oval over
Bedworth United (0) 1 Bromsgrove Rovers (1) 1 ROVERS took a point away from Bedworth but could have had all three if they had taken their chances in an end to end Southern League Division One West game on Tuesday night. On-loan striker Mark Danks had
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Don't just blame kids for litter - adults have a case to answer
As a Droitwich High student, I wholeheartedly agree with Sahra Blacklock and Anna Parker about the problem Droitwich has with litter, and yes, pupils of all schools are partly responsible. What I don't like is that these two readers are quite happy to
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Exchange is sought
I WONDER if any of your readers may be able to help my family? We currently live in a housing association property, a two-bedroomed bungalow. We are desperately looking to exchange for a property close to the schools. My son is disabled and requires many
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A deeper involvement
WE are Droitwich Spa - not Wychavon Foot Spa! Wychavon's public consultation on its lido plan misleads on the most basic point of all. Its plan clearly labels the existing water area as a 'swimming pool' with a depth of 1.4m. But it fails to clarify their
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He doesn't paint the whole picture
SIR - In response to John Phillpott's Seven Days of Saturday, October 8, he made three remarks about present-day Britain. On the subject of justice he said "... perhaps a police state is not that far away, after all". In ducking responsibility he claimed
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Bromsgrove WI
Brenda Jenkins, our president, opened the meeting welcoming members and visitors. Jerusalem was sung as usual. Flowers were provided for the committee table by Millie Harris. Roma read out previous minutes and correspondence received. Betty gave wishes
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Hadzor & Oddingley WI
IT was nearly a full house for our October meeting. Jenny Marsh welcomed us all and thanked Judy Lee and Jennifer Carter for the lovely autumn flowers. Anne Ballard read the minutes and gave out various news items and reminders. Judy Lee spoke about proposed
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Barnt Green Garden Society
AT our October meeting the speaker was Philip Aubury and his subject was house plants. As nearly all of the members present admitted to having at least one plant in every room, this was a most relevant talk. Philip, who is the director of the Birmingham
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It's better to donate the money to charity
SIR - Having lived in Worcester for more than 30 years, I have with some bemusement followed the latest chapter in the long-running saga of constructing a multi-storey car-park at King Street - the arguments are all so familiar! However, what adds a totally
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Top marks for outdoor class
STAFF and children at Dodford First School have been putting the finishing touches to a new outdoor classroom which boasts an unusual living roof.Under one roof: Laura Rollinson, aged seven, and Matthew Verhaeg, six, with the new outdoor classroom. The
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Ryan's gym'll fix it
PARKSIDE Middle School pupils were put through their paces when top gymnast Ryan Bradley paid a visit. The Earls School gymnast, who is set to represent England at the Commonwealth Games next year, dropped into the Stourbridge Road school to show the
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Leaders slump at Redditch
Rugby: North Mids One South Redditch 24 Upton 12 REDDITCH welcomed the league leaders to Bromsgrove Road determined to emulate their recent cup form in the league. But the home side made the worst possible start when the strong Upton pack released their
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Healthy eating
HEALTHY pupils at a village school are eating raisins to raise cash. Youngsters from Stoke Prior First enjoyed a visit from Ronnie Raisin who spent the afternoon spreading the healthy eating message. Each child received a goodie bag, including a box of
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Gun squad trains sights on robbers
SPECIALIST teams of police officers have been drafted in to patrol the north Bromsgrove area after two robberies in neighbouring villages. An armed-response vehicle with specialist firearms officers and a double crew from the local policing team, together
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'Plot' tale goes to air 'Plot' tale goes to air
A LOCAL author's drama about the Gunpowder Plot is hitting the airwaves of national radio. Women's Hour on Radio 4 is dramatising the roles of the women caught up by accident or design in the Gunpowder Plot. The idea for the serial was put to the BBC
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Jane's black magic!
Bride Jane Moring, of Littleheath Lane, Lickey End, shocked family and friends when she opted for a black wedding dress for her marriage to long-term partner John Sutton. "I always wear black so I didn't want my wedding day to be any different," said
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Lunchtime gun raid at post office
AN INVESTIGATION has opened after an armed robbery at a Blackwell post office. Four males, one of which was believed to have been holding a gun, entered the post office in St Catherines Road on Thursday lunchtime and threatened members of staff, before
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Pupils skip school
PLAYFUL pupils were jumping for joy during a popular event at a Droitwich school. Youngsters from Westacre Middle School took part in the school's two-day skipping extravaganza, which started on Wednesday, October 19. Pupils spent the two days jumping
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Garden centre digs in
WORK has started on the new £5million extension at a top Wychbold garden centre. Builders are putting in place the steel structure forming the backbone of the extension at Webbs of Wychbold. The work will add an extra 62,000 square feet of new covered
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Church sheds light on evils of Halloween
A safer alternative to the Halloween celebration of death and evil spirits is being planned by Catshill Baptist Church. Reverend Neil Bennett, pastor at the church in Milton Road, is inviting children aged between five and 11 to attend their Amazing Light
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Calls to lift High Street traffic ban
THE Mayor of Droitwich Spa is calling for the vehicle ban in the town's bustling High Street to be removed before someone is seriously injured by the confusion it is causing. Councillor Richard Morris also hopes that an incident can be prevented with
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Town remembers Battle of Trafalgar
PATRIOTIC Spa folk joined to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar. People across the area celebrated and remembered Britain's most famous naval hero, Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson, and his victory over French forces. Beacons were
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Tale of 'Plot' set for Radio 4
A WORCESTERSHIRE author's drama about the Gunpowder Plot is hitting the airwaves of national radio. Women's Hour on Radio 4 is dramatising the roles of the women caught up by accident or design in the Gunpowder Plot. The idea for the serial was put to
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Fire control centre move could cost lives
TOWN firefighters took a stand against potential service changes by drumming up support from Spa residents. Staff from Droitwich fire station hit the streets on Saturday with petitions in hand to highlight their views against possible changes to the control
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Manage your rubbish by text
ENVIRONMENTALLY friendly townsfolk can now take advantage of an innovative way to help with refuse collection. Wychavon District Council is attempting to make recycling even easier with a free text messaging reminder service. Residents can e-mail their
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Millie the miracle!
A YOUNG mum whose premature baby's life was saved by Alexandra Hospital staff fears for the future if the hospital is downgraded. Karina Homer, 20, of Church Hill, was rushed to the Alex with serious complications almost three months before daughter Millie's
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Firework pushed through letterbox
POLICE have warned of the dangers of messing with fireworks after an elderly woman had one pushed through her letterbox in Upperfield Close, Church Hill North, on Saturday evening. Fortunately, the firework was contained in the wire letter basket and
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First fixed booze penalty is issued
THE first fixed penalty notice for the illegal sale of alcohol to young people has been issued by Redditch police. Officers have been working with Worcestershire Trading Standards in a joint initiative to target the issue. As part of an operation in August
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Help solve murder at mill
THERE will be murder, mystery and intrigue this week at Forge Mill Museum when residents will be asked to help solve a century-old crime. Murder Mystery at the Mill will feature the acting talents of members of Redditch Amateur Theatrical Society (RATS
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Chiefs discuss forces' futures
POLICE chiefs met to discuss the future of forces in the area and what form impending restructuring should take. Chief Constables and Police Authority Chairs and Chief Executives from Warwickshire, West Midlands, West Mercia and Staffordshire met for
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Council's 'broken promises'
RESIDENTS' hopes are being "built up then knocked down", says a town councillor who is accusing the Labour party of breaking its promises over £3 million landscape enhancement plans. Conservative leader Carole Gandy said residents were told in June Matchborough
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Teen gang in park attack
A GANG of teenagers brandishing metal bars brutally attacked a group of friends in Morton Stanley Park. Police are appealing for information following the "nasty incident" in the Windmill Drive end of the park on October 19 between 6.30 and 7pm. A 15-
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Man admits being cruel to children
A 31-YEAR-old man chastised the children of a Redditch woman too severely, a judge was told. The behaviour of Paul Arnold upset the victims' grandparents, who discovered bruises on their arms. Prosecutor Paul Whitfield described how Arnold held a girl
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Baring all for cause
HUNKY men from Redditch and Bromsgrove have ditched their clothes and struck a pose to help raise cash for a vital charity. The Primrose Hospice launched its Peel Off for Primrose calendar featuring men from various sports clubs and businesses at the
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Rescuer's tale of quake chaos
A FORMER Redditch man has spoken of his experiences searching for survivors amongst the rubble in a Pakistani city devastated by this month's earthquake. Jonathan Wharrad, whose family still live in Lodge Park, has returned from Pakistan following a seven-day
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'Affluent' areas missing out on youth workers
"AFFLUENT" areas of Redditch have been overlooked in a £30,000 spend on town youth workers, claims a concerned Redditch councillor. Conservative leader Carole Gandy said the town's more "deprived" districts were benefiting from Worcestershire County Council-employed
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New leader named
ALVECHURCH councillor Roger Hollingworth has been elected Bromsgrove's new council leader. Councillor Roger Hollingworth, of Rowney Green, was sworn in at last Wednesday's full council meeting after being the unanimous choice of the ruling Tory group.
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Bromsgrove Rovers fixtures and results 2005/2006
HOME, away (Southern League Division One West fixtures unless stated) JULY Wed 13 KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS (friendly) 2-4 (Blakemore, Hadland). Sat 16 HEDNESFORD TOWN 0-3 (friendly). Tue 19 MOOR GREEN 0-1 (friendly). Sat 23 BRISTOL ROVERS 3-4 (friendly)
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Cinema - Kinky Boots
YOU'D be hard pushed to find a film out on general release at the moment that doesn't star Chiwetel Ejiofor. The rising British actor not only appears in sci-fi flick Serenity but also as masochistic bad guy Victor Sweet, in gangster flick Four Brothers
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Cinema - Serenity (15)
THE maker of Buffy the Vampire Slayer has created a new breed of science fiction film - fast-paced, emotionally gripping and generally impressive. Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion), captain of the spaceship Serenity and its crew of renegades, is on the
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Last orders at pub
TIME has been called at Redditch's branch of the Litten Tree, The popular Market Place watering hole is one of a number of Litten Tree pubs being sold off after its parent company SFI Group Limited hit financial difficulties. It closed on Wednesday, October
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Cash for cardboard
REDDITCH middle schools are being offered cash incentives to recycle more of their cardboard. The new initiative, being launched by Redditch Council with support from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), is offering eight middle
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Jets fly high
BASKETBALL: Bromsgrove Blaze's ladies' sides started the newly formed Worcestershire Junior League by playing each other. In a hard fought match the Jets had the edge over their club-mates the Bullets. Sophie Hazell and Kylie Moseley gave the Jets a flying
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Specials hit roads to catch speeders
SPECIAL police constables will be tackling speeding motorists on Saturday. Officers will be out and about in rural parts of Redditch with the aim of educating drivers about speed awareness and road safety. They will also be encouraging residents to become
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Bowden and Savage star in season opener
SEAN Bowden and Georgie Savage were Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletic Club's star performers in the first cross-country race of the season at Pype Hayes Park last week. Bowden finished third in the under-15s boys' race, while Savage came fifth in the under
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VIP at village hall
THE deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats enjoyed an evening in Studley on Friday. Sir Menzies Campbell CBE and MP for Fife in Scotland was the guest of honour at a dinner of the Warwickshire Liberal Democrat, held at Studley Village Hall. Fellow guest
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Hall is a design dream
A BUILDING project in Cookhill which took years of fundraising and cost hundreds of thousands of pounds has been presented with a design award. Cookhill Village Hall has received a Distinction in Building award run by Wychavon District Council, with members
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A diamond couple
A BIDFORD man still has a spring in his step when talking about the woman he met more than 60 years ago in a Redditch factory. Fred and Barbara Cooke, of Westholme Road, who celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary tomorrow, met at Lewis Springs in
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New palms planted
FIVE new palm trees were due to be planted in the Kingfisher Centre last night. Installation of the trees, which were specially shipped in from the Netherlands, started in Worcester Square at about 6pm. Town centre manager Ian McLelland said if the job
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Students' harvest help
STUDENTS at a Wythall school took their harvest festival produce out into the community. Pupils from Woodrush Community High School collected harvest items, then packaged them up into boxes for Year 11 pupils to take to the elderly and to people in nearby
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CHILDREN HAVING HALF-TERM FUN WITH PUMPKINS
CHILDREN are enjoying some half-term fun in preparation for Hallowe'en. Face painting, competitions, colouring and crafts, including carving and decorating pumpkins, are on the agenda for the daily fun sessions at Broomfields Farm Shop, Holt Heath, near
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Shops hit by thefts
HIGH Street shop owners are on their guard after burglars targeted two premises on the same night last week. A ground floor window at the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms was smashed and a children's charity box was stolen between 5.30pm last Tuesday and 8.30am the
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25 years ago October 24, 1980
A FOUNDER member of the national WI organisation in 1917, Edith Wilson, from Banks Green Cottage, Bentley, died in Bromsgrove Cottage Hospital aged 98. The Countess of Plymouth, from Hewell Grange, was its chairman for some years. n PRINCE Charles paid
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Town school is most improved
AN Alcester high school has been rated as the most improved in the country over the past four years, according to new GCSE tables published by the BBC. St Benedict's Catholic High School was given the rating according to new calculations which show how
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Ladies' night has style
BUSINESSES in Alcester have teamed up to stage a Ladies' Style Night to raise cash for a national charity. Led by Linda Rose Lingerie, a group of shops in the town have organised the fundraising night on Tuesday for Breast Cancer Care. Linda Randell,
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Take petition to Westminster
DO we live in a Wonderland? One minute we are told more of our money than ever before is being spent by the present Government on the NHS. So why has that same Government told the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust that it has to make savings of
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Safety fears over vehicles
POLICE are urging parents to think before they buy when looking for Christmas presents for their children. Officers are asking adults to be responsible about buying small vehicles such as mini motorbikes and to not get them unless they are going to be
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Plans will cost lives
HOW can they even consider relocating the A&E unit of the Alexandra Hospital? Have they forgotten how essential it was with the massive pile-up on the M42 some years ago? They have also been essential on a more personal note, when my wife was taken
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Going cuckoo for new club!
THE Cuckoo Club, Alcester's brand-new nightspot, has taken the town by storm. Its first concert featuring The Big Swing and the Ratpack Boys proved a resounding success and now organisers and staff at the Greig Centre are preparing for a full programme
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We seem to have two MPs
I THINK I have solved the mystery. We have two MPs both with the same name. We have one Ms Jacqui Smith MP who is an active member of a Government which has starved the NHS of funds, allowed MRSA to run wild, and is now presiding over the disappearance
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Club meeting
MEMBERS of Alces-ter Trades and Labour Club are being urged to attend a special members meeting on the club's future this week. Club secretary Mar-tin Russell said it was imperative as many members as possible attended at 8pm on Friday. "This will be
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Fight for all Alex services
I AM horrified at the thought of services of any kind being withdrawn from the Alex. I have just been diagnosed with diabetes and the thought of journeys to Worecester either for treatment or in an emergency are frightening. My husband and son were involved
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Tree marks battle
BIDFORD Parish Council celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar by planting a commemorative oak tree in the village on Friday. The tree was donated by Bidford resident Patrick James and was planted in a special ceremony at Monie Meadow
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We must all get stuck in
WHO are these uncaring mercenaries who have decided saving money is more important than saving lives? People in Redditch and Bromsgrove deserve better treatment and consideration than causing them great hardship and making them travel to Worcester for
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Ragley concert
RAGLEY Hall is set to welcome 16 prestigious musicians for an evening of classical music. The group of principal string players from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, known as the Innovation Chamber Ensemble, will perform in a gala concert this
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Old will suffer
HOW on Earth are we old 'uns supposed to cope if our local emergency unit closes. It's traumatic enough having to be rushed into an emergency unit without the added upset of travelling miles. When it is a relative or soulmate, it is hard to think you
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Civic heads vow to fight for Kays
WORCESTER councillors have vowed to fight for the jobs of 700 workers facing redundancy at the former Kays catalogue firm. High-ranking local authority members held an emergency meeting with the company's current owners, Littlewoods Shop Direct, to discuss
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Worcester Birmingham Canal Society
NICK Hill, an ex-working boatman, gave an illustrated talk entitled "Commercial Canal Carrying" at our usual venue, The Boat and Railway pub, Stoke Works, Bromsgrove, on October 4. On October 15 and 16 our society shop was at The Bonded Warehouse, Stourbridge
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26/10/05 - Boddy targets crowds boost
DAVE Boddy is banking on Worcester City's FA Cup heroics to spark an upsurge in St George's Lane attendances. More than 1,300 supporters went wild with delight on Monday night as City pulled off one of their greatest cup comebacks. After trailing by two
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Hollywood WI
AT the October meeting, Frank Ravley talked about cruising the UK's inland waterways. He told how he and a friend built a narrow boat and cruised the waterways extensively. He spoke of the joys and possible dangers of this form of travel and illustrated
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Roaring night with 'Motorcycle Club'
Music Review: Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, at the Birmingham Irish Club, Digbeth. WHEN the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club opted for change with Americana influenced third album 'Howl', Bob Dylan was cited as a major influence. So it was fitting that their
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Tormented neighbourhood
Film review - Four Brothers at the UGC Cinema, Great Park, Rubery FROM the mean streets of Detroit, to the tangled paths of inner family relations, a family struggle that director John Singleton (Boyz N the Hood, 2 fast 2 furious) is currently portraying
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What's On Guide
Thursday, October 27 The Rat Pack - Live from Las Vegas, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry. Until October 29. Tickets on 024 7655 3055 or www.belgrade.co.uk Of All The People In All The World (UK), Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry. Until October 29. Free entry.
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Big brother keeps on the Crucible
CONTEMPORARY effects and timeless writing meet in perfect harmony for the Palace Youth Theatre's production of Arthur Miller's classic The Crucible. In the groups most ambitious work Miller's warning tale of a peaceful community that is torn apart by
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Religion and science collide in seering drama
WELL known television and stage actor Timothy West is to bring his considerable presence to bear at the Birmingham Rep when he plays the title lead in The Life of Galileo. This powerful productions charts the battle between Galileo's vision and how it
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Glamour, gears and gaskets
PETROL heads in need of a fix of classic cars and vintage bikes should look no further than the Classic Motorshow at the NEC between November 4 and 6. The show will be packed with all manner of classic cars and some of the most famous vehicles in the
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Cinema - Kinky Boots
YOU'D be hard pushed to find a film out on general release at the moment that doesn't star Chiwetel Ejiofor. The rising British actor not only appears in sci-fi flick Serenity but also as masochistic bad guy Victor Sweet, in gangster flick Four Brothers
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CD - Come and Get It - Rachel Stevens
REVIEWING a bad album or film is not too bad, but trying to write about a mediocre album is even harder. Rachel Stevens may ooze sex appeal on stage, but her second album does not quite live up to its title and will definitely not make you want to "go
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DVD - Dominion - prequel to The Exorcist (15)
THERE may be some confusion about this review so something needs to be explained. Yes, there was a review in the Advertiser of the Exorcist prequel many months ago. This version was actually made before that one but producers deemed this version not scary
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CD - As Is Now - Paul Weller
MORE than four decades after first hitting the charts with The Jam, Paul Weller is still churning out the tunes. His style has changed over the years but he still carries a clout as this latest offering shows. The sleeve notes say this album is dedicated
