Archive

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Society news

Allpay.net's annual summer ball, the launch of National Mediation Awareness week, Britannia prize winner. 1. Enjoying allpay.net's annual summer ball at the Three Counties Hotel, Hereford, in September are (from left): Jayne Davies, Zoe Reid, Kate Holder

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I pronounce you husband and wife

Meet these four happy couples who heard those magic words recently when they exchanged vows and started their new lives as Mr and Mrs Patricia Hymas, eldest daughter of Shirley and Robert Hymas, of Malvern, married Julian Ray, youngest son of Ruth Townsend

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It's not a car, it's a religion

And Volkswagen created the Golf GTi, and it was good. And it begat other hot hatches, which some worshipped also. And then Volkswagen spake unto the GTi faithful: Try the new Mark V and yea verily it will deliver you to the promised land. The only mobile

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Christmas dinner ideas

Main course Follow these suggestions for a gourmet Christmas feast and there won't be many complaints around the dinner table this December 25 l Dry aged Aberdeen Angus rump joint (1.59-1.9kg) l Kiln-roasted salmon with watercress, spinach and rocket

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Making it a happy Christmas for pets

It's a busy time of year for the RSPCA, writes Zeena Lemon Christmas may be the season of goodwill to all men but sadly that doesn't seem to apply to animals, as staff at the Worcester branch of the RSPCA know only too well. "At this time of year we get

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Arabian - to be added

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It soothes the mind as well the body

Massage's benefits are psychological and physical, finds Zeena Lemon Massage is one of the oldest healing practices in the world -- so gentle it can be used on newborn babies and yet so powerful it can be used to treat everything from high blood pressure

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Mission Hall, Rectory Place, Worcester

WHAT is it? Duplex two-room show apartment in the 17-apartment conversion of the 19th Century former Mission Hall. where is it? In the heart of Worcester at the foot of London Road, which provides easy access from the M5 motorway what's inside Ground

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Hello, it's Maureen Lipman speaking

She's famous for those phone ads, but there's so much more to the woman who played Beattie than 'You got an ology!' You got an ology!" are words that actress Maureen Lipman will never be allowed to forget. She is recognised everywhere as Beattie, the

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Heart of England - The Excellence in tourism awards and gala dinner 2005

It's one of the premier tourist attractions in the region, so it's fitting that Worcester Cathedral was chosen to host the Heart of England Tourist Board awards ceremony, designed to recognised the people who have done. most to bring visitors to the Midlands

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Sheer class

Make an entrance at this season's Christmas parties with diaphanous dresses and transparent tops that offer tantalising glimpses - but don't reveal too much. This lovely dress looks like fallen leaves floating in the breeze Designer: Peter Martin Available

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Pottering round the pottery

How you can make this year's Christmas shopping a treat instead of a trauma. Zeena Lemon on where to find great gifts. It's either a necessary evil or one of the most enjoyable bits of Christmas. No, not spending time with the in-laws, but the annual

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advertising feature Express TV - A switched-on firm

Over 46 years, Express TV have established an enviable reputation for supplying quality electrical products and providing the best possible customer service. And now with the newly refurbished shop in Malvern Link, this reputation is about to get even

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Get ready for cheerful chimney sweeps, pretty flower girls and quick kisses under the mistletoe

Get a taste of what a 19th Century Yuletide was like at Worcester's fantastic Victorian Christmas Fayre. By Zeena Lemon Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose... why do Christmas days of old appear to have been far more festive

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Christmas gift guide

Styling Irons from ghd Think urban angels rather than Christmas ones. One of the most desired styling products ever made -- these specialist styling irons look as beautiful as the hairstyles they produce and for Christmas why not invest in an extra special

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Where to go

Wednesday, November 16 THEATRE: Only the Lonely (all week), Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Birmingham. Thursday, November 17 MUSIC: Once More into the Bleach - Blondie tribute act: The Melody Lounge, Tyler's Lock, London Lane, Tardebigge. MUSIC: Bluetones

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Amnesia play will stick in the memory

CONTROVERSIAL Worcestershire stage company Kayelle Productions bring their second play, Mompesson's Well, to the Artrix on Tuesday, November 22. The company examines memory loss and identity in this new comedy-drama written by Simon Andrew-Stirling. Stirling

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Stage whispers

IRISH comedian Brendan O'Carroll's hit comedy - Mrs Brown's Last Wedding - continues at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre until this Saturday. Meanwhile, in Worcester, the Swan Theatre Amateur Company is in final preparation for its production of Educating

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Artist has a stroke of genius

A PAINTER who captured the spirit of Droitwich on canvas is artist of the month at the town's library for November. Len Bradley, aged 93, proved that like wine, artistic skill improves with age, by becoming one of the oldest artists to be featured by

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Society news

Nearly £5,000 blossomed when Herefordshire Red Cross fund-raisers held an autumn plant fair at Oak House, Tillington, by permission of Mr and Mrs Giles Bulmer. 1. Refreshments are always popular! From left: Chris Evans, Tilly Hare, Gillie Bulmer (chairman

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Society news

Hereford Cathedral holds the last of its organ gala concerts - Phantom of the Opera improvised by David Briggs, hosts the regional film premiere of Pride and Prejudice and launches its collaboration with John Mckellar Designer Jewellery, Hereford, where

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Society news

The unveiling of Edward Elgar's statue at Cathedral Close, Hereford, and the Heart of England Excellence in Tourism accolades. 1. Bobbie Heavens (fourth from left), managing director of the Association for the Promotion of Herefordshire, and Roger Phillips

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Slatter strike secures success

Bretforton Ladies 1, Lydney 0 BRETFORTON appeared to make rather heavy weather of Saturday's game and struggled to find any form at all. However, there were a few brief spells of promising play with Julie Hall in midfield making an excellent pass to right

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Karen cracks in the clincher

Badsey 0, Evesham Ladies 1 DETERMINED to maintain the winning form of the previous week, Evesham started the stronger side and good possession and short accurate passes helped them apply early pressure. This resulted in several attempts on goal but Badsey

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Visitors tumble at table toppers

North Staffs II 5, Evesham II 2 LAST weekend's Coaching Solutions West Mid-lands Division One game saw Evesham take the long trip up the M6 to face the team at the top of the table. The visitors started as a very compact unit, unlike previous weeks, with

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Teething trouble with wheelie bin scheme

WORCESTER residents with queries and complaints about the new wheelie bin refuse collection service are asked to be patient as council staff plough through all the problems. Head of Worcester City Council Environmental Serv-ices Mike Harrison said every

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Choir sings for charity

HEAVENLY voices will fill Worcester Cathedral on Saturday, November 19 when the London Welsh Male Choir sing in aid of charity. The innovative choir, which mixes modern Welsh music and opera to startling affect, perform for the first time in Worcester

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Benn's musical comedy time

COMEDIAN Mitch Benn will be lampooning popular songs when he performs at the MAC in Birmingham on November 24 (8pm start). Benn and his band the Distractions, are set to raise a laugh or two when he confuses Macbeth and Eminen. He will also try and teach

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We climbed high to raise charity cash

A GROUP of fund-raisers scaled dizzy heights last week to raise more than £2,000 for a good cause. Eighty climbers, young and old, completed the sponsored climb for the WaterAid Challenge 8,000 at the climbing wall at Sport Martley, near Worcester, on

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Cassie's research wins special award

University of Worcester student Cassie Johns received a special award for her research work on the force driving special police constables. Cassie, from Exeter, was given the first ever Shared Police and Higher Education Research and Enterprise (SPHERE

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Write your messages on a poster for hospice

People are being offered the chance to save money, paper and time this Christmas by sending seasons greetings in an eco-friendly way that will also help St Richard's Hospice in Worcester. Office workers, community organisations, clubs, schools and other

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16/11/05 - Warrior called into England U19 squad

SEVEN Midlands-based players have been included in the England Under 19 squad for a training match against the Leeds Tykes Academy at Chandos Park today (3.30). The squad is preparing for the international against the Australia Schools team at Kingsholm

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Basement battle one not to lose

IT MIGHT only be the middle of November but Saturday's fixture against Northwood bears all the hallmarks of a "must win" match for Evesham United, writes Mervyn Collins. However, David Busst describes Saturday as a "must not lose game"! "We've got to

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City to walk out on field of dreams

ALL talk of relocating to a better ground seemed to have faded away, Warriors were stealing all the headlines, and it's naturally taken for granted that most of the reports from New Road tend to be of a glowing nature. Worcester City Football Club might

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Double up for shield

ANGLING: Astwood Bank's Dark Lane Club fished their Doubles Shield on the Arrow on Saturday with Martin Spencer and Dave Curtis claiming the honours with a combined haul of 15lb 13oz. Frank Ward and Jules Rattue were second with 10lb 10oz 8dr ahead of

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Walking to glory

ATHLETICS: Race-walker Sharon Tonks took the honours in the latest Winter League meeting, held at Birmingham's Perry Park at the weekend. The Redditch & Bromsgrove athlete had been looking forward to a head-to-head with Commonwealth Games silver medalist

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The A team

TENNIS: Wythall A maintained their unbeaten start to the Stratford Winter League campaign, edging out Studley B 3-1 in their Division Two clash. But they were given an early scare with Dave Taylor and Jake Smith losing their match 7-5, 6-2 against visiting

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Joes lose

LEISURE LEAGUES: Sunday's star game in the Premier Division saw Sickadem edge out Average Joes in a five-goal thriller. Second-placed Goodfellows beat leaders Studley Giants 4-2 in the shock of the day while elsewhere, The Lions of St George played out

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100 years ago

November 18, 1905 ISAAC Ethelbert Hands, a labourer from Mount Pleasant, was charged with attempting to take fish belonging to William Hemming, of Park Road, from a stream near the Windsor Road on the 12th instance. Defendant pleaded not guilty - Mr G

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Where to go

Wednesday, November 16 THEATRE: Only the Lonely (all week), Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Birmingham. Thursday, November 17 MUSIC: Once More into the Bleach - Blondie tribute act: The Melody Lounge, Tyler's Lock, London Lane, Tardebigge. MUSIC: Bluetones

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25 years ago

November 14, 1980 A FRAIL old woman was knocked to the floor by a masked raider who burst into her Mount Pleasant shop threatening to kill her if she didn't hand over any money. But although terror stricken, the plucky 81-year-old granny refused the demands

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Skipper hoping for return

Midland Alliance ALVECHURCH head to Buxton for a crucial FA Vase clash this weekend with manager Shaun Cunnington hoping to have skipper Keith Rostill back ... in attack! The Lye Meadow boss was forced to field his star striker in goal on Saturday, something

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Robbins at the double

Women's football Stoke 2 - 2 Headless Cross Headless Cross Ladies recorded their second draw of the season after an impressive performance away at Stoke. They took the lead when Alison Wayley won the ball in midfield and the resulting pass was steered

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

Evesham Utd U-15 3, Taunton Tn 3 THE Robins started well in Satu-rday's first leg AMROS Invitation Cup clash and they were rewarded this with an early goal from Tom Graham. However Town equalised in an instant and, minutes later, the early dominance was

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Injuries hinder hosts

Polesworth 3, Littleton 1 A CRIPPLING injury list is seriously disrupting Littleton's Mid-land Combination campaign. The Division One outfit took to the field at Polesworth last Saturday with a team containing six different players from the previous week

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Ben treble fits bill for new leaders Quinton

THERE'S new leaders in Aquaid Division One of the Stratford Alliance after Ben Adshead's treble spearheaded Henley Forest to a 6-2 win over Southam. That result and a day off for Quinton and Broadway leaves Henley two points clear at the summit where

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Preece to get cash for players

DAVE Boddy is preparing to hand Andy Preece a slice of Worcester City's FA Cup cash bonanza to strengthen his squad. Regardless of City's result against Huddersfield Town in the televised second round tie on Sunday, December 4, the club is expected to

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Hyde sends warning to Terriers

SKIPPER Graham Hyde -- an FA Cup finalist in 1993 -- admits he is buzzing at Worcester City's stunning assault in the famous knockout competition. The midfield veteran appeared as a Sheffield Wednesday substitute during the Wembley final and subsequent

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Baggies coach scheme to help county supporters

WEST Bromwich Albion are launching a pilot coach scheme to make it easier for current fans and potential new supporters living in outlying areas to attend Hawthorns matches. The new executive coach service will first run to the Everton game on Saturday

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Malvern run is ended

MALVERN Town lost their 12-match unbeaten Midland Alliance run when they fell 3-1 at fellow high-fliers Racing Club Warwick last night. On a heavy pitch, Malvern were unlucky not to take the lead in the 10th minute when Nathan Jukes hit the upright. However

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Danny joy

HEREFORD United's Danny Carey-Bertram came off the bench to score last night as England's National Game XI won 2-0 against Belgium. It was striker Carey-Bertram's first appearance for England, while Edgar Street team-mate Tamika Mkandawire also made his

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Perry pounces three times to spearhead easy success

Evesham Utd Ladies 5, Leominster Town 1 DESPITE conceding an early goal, United recovered to earn a well deserved victory against the league newcomers. The visitors took the lead from a fourth minute corner but Sam Perry and Amy Summers forced saves from

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16/11/05 - Robins still confident

MALVERN Rugby Club were defeated 28-17 at home against Old Laurentians on Saturday in a Midlands Two West bottom-of-the-table clash David Robins, director of rugby,is still confident that the Spring Lane side will pull away from relgation. He said: "The

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Junior rugby round up

MATTHEW Sowden bagged a hat trick as Droitwich under-8s edged Stourbridge 35-30 over the weekend. Angus Thomas, Stephen Bayliss and Peter Bedborough also touched down. In the second match Spa ran out 25-20 winners, with Richard Middleton (2), Luke Wall

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Gazza in town

GAZZA mania hits Redditch next week when his Kettering Town side take on the Reds at the Valley Stadium on Tuesday. And United boss Rod Brown is calling on supporters to get behind their team for the crucial league clash. "Kettering have a big away following

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Tolerance

While I applaud the Rev Neil Bennett's initiative in providing an alternative to Hallowe'en, I think it is a shame that he could not do so without misrepresenting the older religion's festival. Halloween, or Samhain as it is known to pagans, is a very

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Suspension

AS a member of the working group on the future of Bromsgrove's Museum, I must disagree with my colleague Councillor Nick Psirides (who is not a member of the working group). He is of course entitled to his opinion regarding the suspension of Councillor

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Missing at protest

I WISH to thank the Advertiser/Messenger for supporting the public campaign to safeguard the services provided for the people of Bromsgrove at the Alexandra Hospital, and for helping to organise the public meeting held at the Artrix - an excellent venue

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Not broken

I WOULD like to add my thoughts to those recently expressed in your excellent newspaper. We have, in Redditch a first class hospital which serves both Redditch, Bromsgrove and the surrounding area. I do agree that pruning some of the top heavy management

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Club set to launch appeal

BOSSES at Redditch RFC are planning an appeal after the Bromsgrove Road side was docked points to leave them languishing at the foot of the table. The Kingfishers had four points deducted to leave them locked with whipping boys Handsworth at the bottom

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12/11/05 - Benbow off in battle of Bath

Bath City 2 Bromsgrove Rovers 0 FA Trophy MIDFIELDER Mark Benbow was the victim of mistaken identity as a sedate FA Trophy clash erupted into violence at Twerton Park on Saturday. Benbow was handed a straight red card by referee Mr L Swabey after a brawl

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12/11/05 - Fairfield edged out

Fairfield Villa 1 Knowle 2 FAIRFIELD were edged out in a lively encounter on Saturday between two sides will high hopes of a top six finish.ON THE BALL: A Fairfield player tries to get forward. Villa dominated the second half at the Recreation Ground,

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12/11/05 - Droitwich bag first victory

Droitwich Spa 3 Cadbury Athletic Reserves 0 MATTHEW Jenkin's brace made sure Droitwich bagged their first win in the Midland Combination Division Two of the season in style over high-flying Cadbury on Saturday. The substitute's brace near the end of the

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Seventh heaven

BROMSGROVE General Reserves stormed into the next round of the LMS Shield by thumping Leisureline 7-0 on Sunday. Goals for Preece 3, Nickle, Berwick, Raylor and Imrie made sure of victory for General. Crawford and Cox scored for Bromsgrove Town in their

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Canals effort wins cash

DROITWICH Canals Trust would like to thank everyone who rang in to ITV's People's Millions lottery programme on November to 'vote for the boat'. Thanks to this tremendous support we were successful in winning the £50,000 on offer. We would also like to

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Amazing diversion

WITH reference the accident adjacent to the Chateau Impney Hotel during last Friday evening's rush hour. The police incredibly diverted hundreds of vehicles to the private road of the hotel. I witnessed fully laden lorries - as big as they come - negotiating

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Funding the drinkers

SPA pensioners are about to subsidise Pershore's lager louts. A Droitwich councillor is proposing Wychavon gives Pershore youths free taxi tokens at weekends, to get home from Worcester, when pubs and clubs close. The scheme costs £5,000 to set up and

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Season's spoils dished out

CAPTAIN Chris Wright han-ded out the men's prizes at Broadway following the ladies presentations by their captain Rita Smith. The John Freeman Trophy for the four best medal rounds for players under 15 handicap went to Ashley Powell, while the Jim Fraser

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All players play part

Evesham U-10 0, Stratford 5 SUNDAY'S hosts had one of the best turnouts of the year with 15 players, although only nine can play at a time, but it enabled the use of rolling substitutes so that everyone had a game. Stratford boasted a far bigger pack

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Amnesia play will stick in the memory

CONTROVERSIAL Worcestershire stage company Kayelle Productions bring their second play, Mompesson's Well, to the Artrix on Tuesday, November 22. The company examines memory loss and identity in this new comedy-drama written by Simon Andrew-Stirling. Stirling

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16/11/05 - Replay win makes me proud to be manager

I FEEL immensely proud to be Worcester City's manager -- Monday night was a great, great occasion. With so much at stake, beating Chippenham Town and securing a second round tie against Huddersfield Town ranks among the most satisfying moments in my managerial

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Youth shelters are an excellent idea

SIR - I think youth shelters are an excellent idea. Grown men have their pubs and clubs, after all. GEORGE COWLEY, Warndon, Worcester.

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Scarrott tops bill at Lakes

Evesham and District Disabled AC and Partnership's ELEVEN members braved Sunday's chilly start to take part in another match in the Fiesta Cakes Autumn League. The Abbey Lake at the Lem-ington Lakes complex near Mor-eton-in-Marsh was the venue and Bill

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Artist has a stroke of genius

A PAINTER who captured the spirit of Droitwich on canvas is artist of the month at the town's library for November. Len Bradley, aged 93, proved that like wine, artistic skill improves with age, by becoming one of the oldest artists to be featured by

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Researching my family history

SIR - I am researching my family history and wonder if anyone can still recall my grandfather - Henry Evans - who kept a small off licence and general store on the corner of Little Chestnut Street and Lower Chestnut Street between 1911 and 1944? JIM EVANS

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Hanbury WI

MARION welcomed us to our October meeting. Greta read to us several items of interest, including forthcoming productions at the Swan Theatre. Our president and secretary previously attended a group meeting at Feckenham, where the possibility of several

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They certainly did their duty

SIR - No 8 area Royal Naval Association would like to thank all those who helped in the Trafalgar Parade. The city council, the cathedral authorities, the police and parking section all made the organisation trouble-free and a pleasant experience. To

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Barnt Green Day Centre

AN outing with a double purpose was organised by Betty Lucas, treasurer of the Barnt Green Day Centre. A party of 15 was driven by volunteers to have lunch at the Holly Bush pub, Belbroughton. The location was chosen to make it possible to pick up Alice

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BBC is mouthpiece of the Labour Party

SIR - Helen Mead writes in her Monday column "...there's nothing remotely watchable in today's (television) offerings." Well said! I am not surprised that what I see as Labour's public communications wing is approaching our totalitarian Labour Government

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We just don't know if these masts are safe

SIR - Few, if any of the residents of the Harleys would dispute your observation that phone masts have to be placed somewhere. In fact members of the local "Mast Committee" have, with relevant scientific and engineering backgrounds and using sophisticated

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Lickey WI

Lickey WI met at the parish hall on November 1. An outing to Chester had been enjoyed in October, despite the inclement weather. Diana Kiteley reported on the first meeting of the newly-formed Bromsgrove and Hillside Group and Joan MacArthur gave an account

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Under cover

KINDHEARTED children at a Bromsgrove school helped make a quilt full of their favourite things for adoption week. Youngsters from Meadows First School, in Stourbridge Road, each made a patch for the quilt featuring their favourite things. This was then

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Black history

TOWN youngsters celebrated Black History Month with a special puppet show. Blue Sky Theatre staged two performances for 320 pupils from first and primary schools in the district at the Spadesbourne Suite, in Burcot Lane. The puppet show, Polly Put The

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Bed losses bring fears of closure

THE number of beds at Bromsgrove's Brook Haven mental health unit could be slashed. Despite rumours rife in the town health chiefs have said there were no plans, at this point, to close a particular unit. But a decision regarding bed reductions, as a

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Tip work set to go ahead

PLANS to carry out work on a landfill site with a view to creating a golf course look set to be agreed, subject to further discussion over conditions. An application was made by Link Property Limited after they were told by the Environment Agency under

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Call for hospital ballot

HEALTH issues - particularly a potential crisis looming at the Alexandra hospital over cuts to services - occupied the minds of district councillors when they met for their November meeting. Labour group leader Councillor Peter McDonald (Waseley) put

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High Street market plan

TRADERS in Bromsgrove are backing a plan to stage a pre-Christmas market in High Street on December 18. The new venture is the idea of the district council's economic development officer Peter Michael. He said traders are at present being canvassed by

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Pubwatch is to relaunch

BROMSGROVE town centre's Pubwatch scheme is to be relaunched as part of an action plan to improve the quality of life for people living and working in the area. The move follows a decision by Bromsgrove's Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP

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Town all set to do its bit for Pudsey

KIND-HEARTED Spa folk are preparing to pull together to raise much needed funds for the Children In Need appeal. Friday will see people of all ages from the town taking part in activities, setting up sales and dressing in fancy dress in aid of the popular

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Trench to be filled

WATER company Severn Trent has responded to calls from worried traders and promised to fill in a 75m trench, which has caused traffic chaos in Rubery. Work on the trench, intended for water and energy cables in New Road, was abruptly halted a fortnight

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We're heading off to the woods!

ADVENTUROUS children took a walk on the wild side thanks to a Spa nursery. Pupils from Safehands Nursery, in Old Coach Road, visited woodlands for a forest classroom event to teach youngsters about the environment. They went to the Bishops Wood Environment

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Top school facing fine

BROMSGROVE School faces a huge fine after it was named among a string of independent schools in a fee-fixing investigation. The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) revealed that Bromsgrove was among 50 charitable independent schools which were in breach of the

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Playhouse destroyed by vandals

SPA children have been left saddened after mindless vandals targeted their school and destroyed their much-loved playhouse. The vandals struck at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, in St Joseph's Close, on Monday November 7, when the school was closed

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Father and son who hit police are jailed

A FATHER and son were sentenced to a total of 18 weeks in prison after hitting police officers called to a disturbance at a wake. Ian Martindale, his wife Jennifer and son Matthew, all appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court on Thursday and admitted one

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Good Ofsted report for Droitwich High

PUPILS and teachers from a Spa school are celebrating after being put under the spotlight by inspectors. Droitwich Spa High School, Briar Mill, was visited by an Ofsted team, which spoke to students, observed lessons, interviewed staff and gathered feedback

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Basement battle one not to lose

IT MIGHT only be the middle of November but Saturday's fixture against Northwood bears all the hallmarks of a "must win" match for Evesham United, writes Mervyn Collins. However, David Busst describes Saturday as a "must not lose game"! "We've got to

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Scullers Oli and Rory show style on water

A COUPLE of juniors from the Evesham club rowed at last weekend's Pangbourne Junior Sculls. The event is one of the largest junior Heads of the season and attracts hundreds of competitors, mainly from schools, like Eton and Westminster, that offer rowing

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Trouble and strife over as Husbands wins it!

Evesham 4, Old Halesonians 3 A LONG awaited first win of the season was posted after Saturday's nailbiting bottom of the table clash in the West Midlands Premier League. The win lifted Evesham out of the bottom three for the first time this season and

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Summit side Sils prosper in Park

Pershore 15pts, Old Silhillians 31 PERSHORE suffered a disappointing loss last Saturday when their poor recent form continued. It was a Jekyll and Hyde performance with the hosts played well in the first half when the forwards got their rucking game going

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Six of best steer Crowle to summit

CROWLE moved to the top of Division Three in the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League after making it six wins from six games with victory at Eckington. Hayward netted twice and Hatchett once for the leaders with Ford replying for the home

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Tigers in pole position

Evesham and District Table Tennis Association BENGEWORTH Tigers are sitting pretty at the top of the first division table after crucial victories over Wyre Wanderers and main rivals Littleton Aces. Against the Wanderers, Gra-hame Brown had no trouble

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Plato prize on offer for visitors to NEC event

IF YOU love motor sport, don't miss this once in a lifetime chance to win Jason Plato's very own SEAT Sport UK racing overalls he wore in three rounds of this year's FIA World Touring Car Cham-pionships. All you have to do to qualify for this fabulous

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Battle back after break to post win

Pershore III 26pts, Warley II 14 WITHIN minutes of the first whistle Pershore knew that they were in for a tougher afternoon compared with recent weeks with the Warley pack making it difficult for the home side to embark on their running style of rugby

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Stables hit in £30,000 raid

HEARTLESS thieves have "wiped out" a Redditch horse riding school, stealing more than £30,000 worth of equipment. Staff and students at the Bentley and District Riding School in Webheath have been left devastated by the theft, which took place overnight

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Lest we forget...

REDDITCH veterans laid wreaths of poppies to remember those who lost their lives in conflict at the Plymouth Road War Memorial on Friday. The special service, organised by the Redditch branch of the Royal British Legion, marked Remembrance Day 60 years

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Wife died of overdose

A HUNT End woman died of an overdose of painkillers on the day of her husband's funeral, an inquest heard on Friday. But county coroner Victor Round could not say whether Stella Court intended to kill herself because she had a track record of mental illness

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Book on life of a legend

A BOOK has been published on the life and career of the Redditch-born music legend John Bonham. John Bonham - The Powerhouse Behind Led Zeppelin was compiled by John's brother, Mick, who died suddenly in January 2000, aged just 49. He had just completed

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First gear for bypass plans

THE wheels of the proposed Bordesley bypass scheme have finally been put in motion. Worcestershire County Council is putting together its planning application for the new mile-long dual carriageway, which will serve the proposed Abbey Stadium development

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Proud of our work at Alex

NOW all Redditch residents are aware of the Alexandra Hospital dilemma, I would like to express my thoughts on this serious matter. As a plumbing contracts manager for a local firm, I had the pleasure of overseeing the work at the Alex from start to finish

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Fire at prison

POLICE are investigating a fire which broke out in a toilet receptacle at Brockhill prison in Tardebigge. The fire was started at about 11pm on Thursday. Three prison officers were treated for smoke inhalation but no inmates were injured. A Hereford and

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Sabotaging vital project

WITH regards to the county council's late, late decision to double the cost of any Bordesley bypass that would be needed to secure the Abbey Stadium Project (Advertiser, September 9). It is unfortunate the Tory-led county council seems obsessed with throwing

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In fine voice

A WELL-established group of singers will hit the high notes at a concert next weekend. The Arrow Vale Singers will perform their autumn concert at Kingsley College Theatre in Woodrow Drive on Saturday, November 26. The ever-popular group celebrates its

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Town needs places to go

I have just spent 90 minutes on the Bromsgrove Highway in a traffic jam. The reason I was in the jam? I was trying to get to a cinema. As I have the misfortune to live in Redditch, I have to travel if I wish to see a film. The only entertainment in Redditch

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Age no barrier to yoga fun

ENERGETIC senior citizens are being encouraged to don their tracksuits and get involved in sessions at a Woodrow school. Elderly residents are invited to join the Over-60s Yoga Sessions at Kingsley Sports centre on Tuesdays from 10-11. Martin West, duty

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Plan to double travellers' site

By Emily Bridgewater HOLBERROW Green residents campaigning against plans to create a permanent site for travelling performers, are outraged at new proposals to double the size of it. Members of the Holberrow Green Action Group (HGAG) are furious at new

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Brush maker's cancer death

A FECKENHAM man who made artists' brushes died of a cancer usually associated with exposure to asbestos, an inquest heard on Friday. County coroner Victor Round opened the inquest into the death of 88-year-old Gerard Cordes at Stourport-upon-Severn. Mr

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Guard hit in robbery

A SECURITY guard was hit with a metal bar during a robbery outside Greenlands Post Office. Two men stole a cash box from the Securicor guard as he called at the Studley Road post office to service a cash machine just before noon on Thursday. When the

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Stardom beckons for Damon

A RISING Redditch star has won a place at a top performing arts school which boasts Victoria Beckham as a former student. Damon Morris, a pupil at Arrow Vale High School, was one of just 60 talented youngsters to secure a place at the Laine Theatre School

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Centre's safety award

THE Kingfisher Centre has been awarded for providing high levels of customer safety. MP Jacqui Smith presented shopping centre manager Ian McLelland with a Safer Business Award at a ceremony on Friday. The award recognises the commitment of the centre's

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Churches unite

A SERVICE of unity for churches of all denomination was held in Studley last night. Parishioners were invited to the special service at the church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It included the first Eucharist in the Roman Catholic rite to

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Dogs' foul play

BATCHLEY dog owners are putting the health and safety of children at risk by allowing their pets to foul on a school playing field. Birchensale Middle School premises manager Trisha Duncan said dog mess on the playing field had become a real problem in

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Lions collect their share

REDDITCH Lions will once again be relying on the generosity of townsfolk when they collect for Children in Need this Friday. Members will be at Worcester Square in the Kingfisher Centre from 9am-5pm. A spokesman said: "The club will be more than happy

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Matchborough West Community Group

LORNA opened the meeting on October 25 by thanking everyone for coming and introducing the committee and visitor, Stuart Head, Community Support Officer from West Mercia Constabulary. Lorna said Pam Wilkins was the new point of contact at the repairs

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Car to help prevent crime

A REDDITCH police officer has been given a brand new car to help his crime prevention work. The Vauxhall Astra estate is sponsored by ADT Fire and Security and has been presented to Pc Eddie Mills, crime risk manager for Redditch. The car has been marked

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Reddishare Club

THE Reddishare Club for Elderly and Disabled Persons is pleased to announce its programme for the Christmas period. On Friday, November 25 there will be a nearly new sale and a talk by fire officer Bob Morris. On Friday, December 2, the Reddishare Christmas

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Church's calendar

A HEADLESS Cross Church is inviting people to come and sample the range of activities it has to offer. Activities at Headless Cross Methodist Church in Evesham Road include girls and boys brigade meetings, Everywoman's Circle, a mother and toddler group

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Redditch Art Circle

OUR recent autumn exhibition at the Kingfisher Centre was very successful and proved of great interest to the public, who readily voted for their favourite paintings. The award for the best picture overall went to Judith Sullivan, the best flower study

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Solihull & District Orchid Society

FOR our November meeting our president Peter White provided us with an entertaining afternoon with a potting demonstration and advice on the care and culture of plants that members had brought along. In December we have our members only show and Christmas

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Bromsgrove catch fire to to apprehend Outlaws

BROMSGROVE Blaze proved they can compete at the highest level by beating Ilkeston Outlaws 82-77 in the National Basketball League in Derbyshire. Blaze proved they're a match for most sides in the division by holding on for a narrow victory. The home side

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Jets hit the Pacers with power play

BROMSGROVE Jets soared high above Worcester based Pacers with a comfortable 98-17 victory in the Worcestershire Basketball League at the Ryland Centre. Emma Forrest opened the scoring in the first half with two jump shots, while Amy O'Meara was solid

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Future of parish

FECKENHAM residents will have a questionnaire on the future of the parish come through their letterboxes at the weekend. After a year's preparation, the Feckenham Parish Plan Committee has completed its questionnaire which is now due to be distributed

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Two clubs excel in Speedo League

Bromsgrove Swimming Club booked their place in the final of the Speedo League Division Two in December by winning its latest round. Will Baker had one of his best nights ever when he set a new personal best in the under-13s freestyle in a time of one

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High jinks at hotel

REDDITCH'S Quality Hotel in Southcrest will be hosting a spectacular night of sparking entertainment to raise cash for Children in Need on Friday. The evening, supported by Arrow Cars of Alcester, will feature a breathtaking fireworks display organised

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Car break-ins

THIEVES targeted three high-performance vehicles in pub car parks on Friday. Studley police are investigating the series of break-ins, which took place at 8.30 and 9.30pm. One the first occasion, a BMW was broken into at the Old Washford Mill pub in Icknield

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Forklifts hijacked

NUISANCE youths broke into a Studley business and hijacked a couple of forklift trucks. Three teenagers gained entry to Ricor Limited in Needles House on Monday at about 3.30pm. According to Insp Emma Walton, the youths were driving forklift trucks around

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Diary of events

Thursday, November 17 Chicago Rock, Unicorn Hill, hosts the Clubs Classic Tour from 7pm-2am. Admission is free before 10pm and £3 thereafter. Friday, November 18 St Nicholas Church in Alcester holds its Christmas Bazaar at the Town Hall from 7-9pm. It

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Follow the bear

MUSICIANS, schoolchildren, workers - the young and elderly alike - everyone is coming together across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to do their bit for Children In Need. The big day, when people have the excuse of doing weird and wonderful things in

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25 years ago November 14, 1980

BROMSGROVE'S Poppy Appeal broke all records this year - Saturday's collection totalled £585. Almost a fifth of the total was collected by 76-year-old pensioner Beryl Pottier, of Milton Road, Catshill. She started at 9.15am in the High Street and carried

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50 years ago November 19, 1955

THE winter show of Bromsgrove Chrysanthemum Society was held at the Parish Church Hall. There were 372 blooms to show from 19 growers. The display included 114 vases of blooms, whereas at a previous event there had only been 78. BROMSGROVE Town Band was

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100 years ago November 18, 1905

SAMUEL James, a labourer from Catshill, was charged with deserting his wife. Bromsgrove Petty Session heard he had joined the militia and absconded and had often neglected his wife and children. The prisoner stated he left the district because he had

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Finish with a flourish

ALL the knockout finals have now taken place in the 2005 Wychavon Parish Games. Although all the individual games in the ladies' darts final were fairly close, Pebworth managed to find the final doubles more consistently to emerge as winners ahead of

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Tredington surprise senior school

THE C Division threw up a shock result in the Cotswold Floorball League when a strong CCS team only just scraped a 2-2 draw against Tredington. J J Watson gave the senior school a deserved lead for a determined fightback see the underdogs taking the lead

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Minster in chase

OCTOBER was the first full month of the new Evesham Badminton Association season and Bour-ton-on-the-Water currently sit on top of two divisions. Early results see the club top of the ladies doubles league having won 18 games closely followed by Black-minster

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Tigers in pole position

Evesham and District Table Tennis Association BENGEWORTH Tigers are sitting pretty at the top of the first division table after crucial victories over Wyre Wanderers and main rivals Littleton Aces. Against the Wanderers, Gra-hame Brown had no trouble

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Bang on at Boxhill

THE last recognised major duathlon event of the year saw Michelle Parsons of Worcester Triathlon club triumph in impressive style. The aptly named Ballbuster Duathlon is held every Nov-ember at Boxhill in Surrey and is centred around the infamous Boxhill

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Quiz Association tables

Evesham and District Bidford District P W D L Pts Holly Bush Hotel (Alcester) 3 3 0 0 6 Bird in Hand (Newbold) 3 3 0 0 6 Holly Bush Hotel B (Alcester) 3 2 0 1 4 Frog & Bullrush (Bidford) 3 2 0 1 4 Blue Boar (Temple Grafton) 3 1 0 2 2 Blue Boar B (

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With the Wheelers

SEVENTEEN members of Evesham Wheelers set off in cold but sunny weather last Sunday towards Droitwich. The group passed through Salford Priors, Dunnington, Abbots Morton, Inkberrow, Stock Green, Himbleton and Gallow Green where a stop was made to observe

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Donations take a dive

A GROWING gap between the cost of running the church and the amount given by worshippers could lead to the loss of a parish priest, the rector of Alcester's St Nicholas Church has warned. The Rev David Capron said the amount of cash given by churchgoers

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Annual awards

FIREFIGHTERS from the area were rewarded for their efforts at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Services annual awards ceremony held this month. Leading Firefighter Neil Bell, from Alcester, received a Queen's Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (20 years)

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BUSINESS BRIEF

Rise in jobless NEW figures today showed the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefit in the West Midlands is 123,000, a rise of 2,000, while the unemployment rate for the area is 4.7 per cent. The number of people claiming unemployment-related

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Lunch with HRH

RESIDENTS are being given the chance to have lunch with the Queen. Those who share their 80th birthday with the Queen's on April 21, 2006, will have the chance to go to a reception at Buckingham Palace next year. For an application form, call the Local

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Voice your views on group's future

RESIDENTS will be able to put forward their ideas for the future of Advantage Alcester as its funding period comes to an end. A meeting earlier this month is set to be followed by public consultation in February which could help decide the direction the

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Token gesture

BIDFORD Parish Council will be handing out Transport Tokens to all pensioners and registered disabled at The Jolly Tea Pot in the Church Rooms, Church Street, tomorrow and next Thursday mornings. Residents are reminded to bring some identification with

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Lessons in speaking out aimed at farmers

A GROUP of go-ahead farmers will be learning how to be effective communicators as part of a regional initiative to get farmers speaking out for their industry and the public backing UK farming. Fifteen farmers from across the region will take part in

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Katie's bike is just the ticket!

AN Alcester school teamed up with a town business to reward one hardworking pupil. Children at St Nicholas CE Primary School were rewarded with golden tickets for their work and then one was pulled out of a hat. Lucky winner Katie Griffiths celebrated

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16/11/05 - Hyde sends warning to Terriers

SKIPPER Graham Hyde -- an FA Cup finalist in 1993 -- admits he is buzzing at Worcester City's stunning assault in the famous knockout competition. The midfield veteran appeared as a Sheffield Wednesday substitute during the Wembley final and subsequent

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Shoppers' return revives Sainsbury's sales

SAINSBURY'S expressed surprise at the speed of its recovery today as first-half sales rose and it clawed back more of the grocery market from its rivals. The UK's third biggest supermarket chain said like-for-like sales rose 2.1 per cent in the six months

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Abstract art

ALCESTER'S art haven opened its doors for another live demonstration by an aspiring artist. Leroy Henry, cousin of the famous Midlands comedian Lenny Henry, spent Saturday at Venue Xpresso, producing art for passers-by. His work has been on show at the

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Gangmaster law will hurt temping firms

A GOVERNMENT scheme to licence gangmasters could mean temp agencies in Worcester, which operate in the food packing industry, will be faced with huge fees. The warning comes from Paul Jackman, director of recruitment firm Thorn Baker, which has offices

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Police meeting

RESIDENTS of Alcester are being reminded they can have their say on the future of policing in the area at a special meeting tonight (Wednesday, November 16). A public meeting will be held at 6.30pm at Stratford High School, Alcester Road, Stratford, where

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Church bazaar

THE festive season will kick off with a bang in Alcester this weekend. St Nicholas Church is holding its annual Christmas Bazaar in the Town Hall on Friday night from 7-9pm and Saturday morning from 10am until noon. Co-ordinator Gwyneth Osborne said everyone

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Abstract art

ALCESTER'S art haven opened its doors for another live demonstration by an aspiring artist. Leroy Henry, cousin of the famous Midlands comedian Lenny Henry, spent Saturday at Venue Xpresso, producing art for passers-by. His work has been on show at the

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Middle class grabbing the best schools - MP

MIDDLE-class families in Worcestershire have monopolised the best schools, city MP Mike Foster claims. He says that large schools in deprived areas are not receiving enough share of the county's pot of money. But Worcestershire County Council says it

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Hard working Boars taste defeat

Bromsgrove 5 Scunthorpe 26 Midlands Division One BROMSGROVE sank even deeper into the relegation mire on Saturday as Scunthorpe beat them at Finstall Park. OFF TARGET: A Bromsgrove kicker strikes for the posts. The Boars remain rooted to the bottom of

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Chairman gets behind the team

BROMSGROVE Rovers' chairman Tom Herbert has given his out-of-form side his full support this week. Rovers have endured a disastrous few weeks where they have not won in four matches. The run of results has left the Victoria Ground side lagging behind

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This new yob law just isn't working

MEASURES introduced to clamp down on anti-social behaviour are failing to solve the roblem, according to a worried city resident. Thugs are making the life of Jackie Barry so miserable, that she is considering moving from Humber Road in Ronkswood, Worcester

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Chance to have your say

PEOPLE are being urged to have their say on ambitious plans, which would see Worcester become a top rank cathedral city on a par with York and Oxford. Worcester City Council wants the city to become an expanded area of excellence with shops, offices,

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How a letter you write in Worcester could help to free a prisoner in Burma

EVER wanted to change the world while sitting at home? Well, here's the way. Just take pen and paper and fire off a few letters to repressive regimes across the globe which are locking up prisoners of conscience. That's what the people of Amnesty International

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All the advice you need for a career

STUDENTS and graduates can access the most up-to-date careers opportunities and advice at the University of Worcester's Graduate Opportunities Fair. More than 30 businesses and employers' organisations will be at the University's St John's campus, tomorrow

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This spread is all for you, Jack

A SPECIAL lunch was held in a Worcester residential home to celebrate the long tenure of a 93-year-old resident. Jimmy Carter was still president of the United States and Margaret Thatcher had only been in 10 Downing Street for just a year when Jack Pritchard

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Restored well to be given a blessing

RESTORATION work at St Ann's Well, on the hills above Great Malvern, should be nearing completion by the Saint's Day, December 9, in time for a well blessing ceremony. The Rev John Barr, of Malvern Priory, will bless the spring water at noon and there

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PENSIONER'S PROOF OF MILD AUTUMN

A GARDENER is thrilled that her gladioli are in full bloom, despite the autumn chill. Barabara Bowcutt, of Lower Howsell Road in Malvern Link, (pictured above) said that the blossoming flowers are evidence that the winter months are getting warmer. "They

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Malvern Town FC - Fixtures/Results - 2005/6 Season

FIXTURES Harvey World Travel Midland Football Alliance Saturday, November 19, Malvern Town v Romulus (3.00). Saturday, November 26, League Cup, round two, Malvern Town v Alvechurch (3.00). West Midlands League Division One Saturday, November 26, Bilston

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12/11/05 - Benbow off in battle of Bath

Bath City 2 Bromsgrove Rovers 0 FA Trophy MIDFIELDER Mark Benbow was the victim of mistaken identity as a sedate FA Trophy clash erupted into violence at Twerton Park on Saturday. Benbow was handed a straight red card by referee Mr L Swabey after a brawl

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15/11/05 - Chairman gets behind the team

BROMSGROVE Rovers' chairman Tom Herbert has given his out-of-form side his full support this week. Rovers have endured a disastrous few weeks where they have not won in four matches. The run of results has left the Victoria Ground side lagging behind

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Gazza in town

GAZZA mania hits Redditch next week when his Kettering Town side take on the Reds at the Valley Stadium on Tuesday. And United boss Rod Brown is calling on supporters to get behind their team for the crucial league clash. "Kettering have a big away following

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Four score

HOCKEY: Redditch Ladies kept up their recent good run of form with a 4-0 victory over Harborne in Worcestershire Division One. Player of the match Emma Preston opened the scoring for the home side after the visitors defence had been put under a great

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50 years ago

November 18, 1955 A REDDITCH fire engine racing to a fire in Evesham Street on Tuesday damaged its rear mudguard when it tugged against the wire safety fencing on the corner of Evesham Street and Market Place. It arrived at the scene of the fire - T P

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Ten-goal thriller frustrates boss

Midland Comb FECKENHAM had to settle for a share of the points in a ten-goal thriller with visitors Coleshill Town. But the result was frustrating for manager Lee Adams who had seen his side coast into a 4-0 lead inside the opening 25 minutes. "We made

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Harry's hat-trick wraps up points

Juniors A hat-trick from Harry Jones helped Studley Juniors u13s A to a 7-1 victory over Lapal Colts in the League Shield. Ben Briggs (two), Liam Kettle and Jamie Keyte were also on target with Briggs picking up the Man of the Match award. Redditch United

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Bromsgrove beat Old Sils

Bromsgrove men's 1st XI 3 Old Silhilians men's 1st XI 0 BROMSGROVE kept the pressure up on the leaders in the Coaching Solutions West Midlands Division One with a comfortable victory over Old Sils on Saturday. Victory makes sure that Bromsgrove cemented

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Kate's goal gives Spa hope

Droitwich ladies 1st XI 1 Worcester ladies 1st XI 2 A SECOND half fight back by Spa wasn't enough to prevent defeat in a well-contested Worcestershire League match on Saturday. Spa battled back hard from 2-0 down in the first half, but was unable to grab

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Perry pounces three times to spearhead easy success

Evesham Utd Ladies 5, Leominster Town 1 DESPITE conceding an early goal, United recovered to earn a well deserved victory against the league newcomers. The visitors took the lead from a fourth minute corner but Sam Perry and Amy Summers forced saves from

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Wanted!

CALLING all fast defenders, proven strikers and ball winning midfielders! Evesham United Under-12s (Year 7) are on the lookout for talented players with a view to playing on Sundays in either Mercian, Cheltenham & Glou-cester Leagues or Midland Jun-ior

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Six of best steer Crowle to summit

CROWLE moved to the top of Division Three in the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League after making it six wins from six games with victory at Eckington. Hayward netted twice and Hatchett once for the leaders with Ford replying for the home

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Colts hit goal trail

Shipston Excelsior Panthers 0, Bredon Colts Athletico U-13 6 COLTS were under pressure against much improved opponents early on but, when they were awarded a penalty, Nick Hill gave them the lead. That was the spur the Bredon boys needed and Hill doubled

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England cap Little is big Wolves hope

TEENAGE Worcester prodigy Mark Little has refused to let a little hindrance like the date of his birth get in the way of a promising football career. Wolverhampton Wanderers' hot prospect played his first game in England colours yesterday, stepping out

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Warrior called into England U19 squad

SEVEN Midlands-based players have been included in the England Under 19 squad for a training match against the Leeds Tykes Academy at Chandos Park today (3.30). The squad is preparing for the international against the Australia Schools team at Kingsholm

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City club tops the charts

WORCESTER Athletic Club finished first cross-country team in both the 'A' and 'B' races in Birmingham League Division Three at Senneleys Park. The club enjoyed a good turn-out for the first race and their runners were well placed with the first finisher

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Dean quits role as Hall starts new era

THE new director of coaching at Bromsgrove RFC has vowed to pick up the struggling team and get them back on track. Ian Hall stepped in for Dean Ball as the head coach at Finstall Park at the end of last week. The experienced coach, who has worked with

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12/11/05 - Hard working Boars taste defeat

Bromsgrove 5 Scunthorpe 26 Midlands Division One BROMSGROVE sank even deeper into the relegation mire on Saturday as Scunthorpe beat them at Finstall Park. OFF TARGET: A Bromsgrove kicker strikes for the posts. The Boars remain rooted to the bottom of

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12/11/05 - Spa overpowered by Berkswell

Berkswell and Balsall 21 Droitwich Spa 18 Midlands Division Four West (South) DROITWICH Spa struggled to cope with a muscular Berkswell and Balsall side as they slipped to a narrow defeat on Saturday. Spa's players were never able to compete with a powerful

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Lack of respect

SO another year goes by and another Remembrance Sunday. The turnout at the Catshill Memorial was better than ever. And yet, I would like to 'congratulate' all those drivers who drove past during Sunday's service with the most gormless of looks on their

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Bus schedule

WOULD it not encourage more motorists to use public transport if every bus stop could be provided with some form of shelter in which, an updated map of the area could be displayed to show local bus routes, with an indication of the times (or frequency

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Real treat

I WOULD like to thank the Catshill Village Meadow committee for its brilliant Trick or Treat Treasure Hunt evening on the Memorial Meadow. In this sad social climate when 'trick or treat' by children at doors is deemed unsafe, and older residents feel

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It's noisier

I HAVE every sympathy with the writers of last week's letters regarding the noise created by fireworks. But spare a thought for us poor residents in Stourbridge Road (approaching Parkside school). Since the road re-surfacing in August, loose manhole covers

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Struggling!

DUE to a much lower income, I have been struggling to pay my council tax and as I am now paid monthly, instead of paying on the first of each month, I pay on the 10th of each month. Despite never missing a payment, I received through the post a court

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Saving our services

I HAVE a few comments regarding the 'Clinical Service and Finance Review' published by Worcestershire Acute Hospital Trust (WAHT), and the subsequent meeting held at the Artrix. It was pointed out by a local GP attending the Artrix that many of the problems

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15/11/05 - Chairman gets behind the team

BROMSGROVE Rovers' chairman Tom Herbert has given his out-of-form side his full support this week. Rovers have endured a disastrous few weeks where they have not won in four matches. The run of results has left the Victoria Ground side lagging behind

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12/11/05 - Bubbling Brookes keeps on the goal trail

Barnt Green Spartak 3 Pershore Town 0 SPARTAK continued to pursue promotion in the Midland Combination Premier Division with a comfortable 2-0 win over Pershore at home on Saturday. Victory keeps second placed Barnt Green hot on the heels of leaders Atherstone

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Away day boost may prove vital

Warwickshire One Trinity Guild 0 Alcester 19 Alcester secured a vital first away win thanks to a much improved performance in Coventry. After an even opening Alcester's superiority at the line-out began to pay off and, following a well rehearsed move,

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Merit joy

Warwickshire One REDDITCH 2nds maintained their good form in Merit Division One with a 26-13 victory over Evesham 2nds. Mark Morris, Lee Cross, Gary Carter and Mitchell Ferris scored tries for the home side with Morris adding to the tally with three conversions

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Bromsgrove Rovers Football Club - Match Stats - 2005/2006

GOALSCORERS 6 - Banner. 5 - Hadland, Danks 4 - Dyer. 3 - Curtis, Barnes-Homer. 2 - Smith, Ramsay, Szewczyk. 1 - Collins, Johnson, Mitchell, Maguire. ADVERTISER/MESSENGER MAN OF THE MATCH 3 - Male 4 - Hadland 3 - Dyer 3 - Johnson 2 - Evans 2 - Banner 2

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Struggling to pay way

DUE to a much lower income, I have been struggling to pay my council tax and as I am now paid monthly, instead of paying on the first of each month, I pay on the 10th of each month. Despite never missing a payment, I received through the post a court

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Summit side Sils prosper in Park

Pershore 15pts, Old Silhillians 31 PERSHORE suffered a disappointing loss last Saturday when their poor recent form continued. It was a Jekyll and Hyde performance with the hosts played well in the first half when the forwards got their rucking game going

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Misery in Mail

PRINCE Henry's High School's progress in rugby's Daily Mail Under-18 Schools Cup came to an abrupt halt when they visited King's School Worcester. The Evesham side crashed out 29-0 and any hopes of a trip to Twickenham now rest with the Under-15s, who

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County rivals collapse under second half salvo

Redditch 6, Evesham 32pts EVESHAM travelled to their county rivals expecting a tough game after the hosts' recent win over league leaders Upton. Playing up the slope the visitors soon stamped their forward dominance on the game and were soon gaining ground

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Battle back after break to post win

Pershore III 26pts, Warley II 14 WITHIN minutes of the first whistle Pershore knew that they were in for a tougher afternoon compared with recent weeks with the Warley pack making it difficult for the home side to embark on their running style of rugby

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Defeat follows draw

Painswick 0, Bredon Buzzards U-13 0 IN the first half of Sunday's 30-minute match, Painswick were camped in the Bredon half, pressing hard towards the visitors' line. However, the defence held firm to thwart the good attacking forays before the forwards

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Stage whispers

IRISH comedian Brendan O'Carroll's hit comedy - Mrs Brown's Last Wedding - continues at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre until this Saturday. Meanwhile, in Worcester, the Swan Theatre Amateur Company is in final preparation for its production of Educating

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Bromsgrove & District Flower Arranging Society

At our October meeting, we were delighted to welcome 43 members and nine visitors for our demonstration by Sheila Hand, entitled the third season. Sheila demonstrated six lovely arrangements, which were raffled at the end of the demonstration. Our next

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How can we make government listen?

SIR - Regarding the Worcestershire school funding - or lack of it - the Department for Education and Skills 2005-06 figures for per pupil funding have just been publicly announced. They show that despite previous accusations from certain quarters that

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Worcester & Birmingham Canal Society

OUR November meeting, held at The Boat & Railway, Stoke Works, was an illustrated talk on pub signs. We learnt many interesting facts about our ancient pub names and the importance of hanging on to them. Alan Rose, our speaker, told us of the origins

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Breaking the law riding a bicycle

SIR - In my youth it was obligatory that cycles had either bells, horns or other methods of letting pedestrians know you were about to overtake them, if going the same way and using the same path. It was also obligatory to have front and rear working

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Cranky yank is all jokes

RIBS are set to be tickled when grumpy American comedian Rich Hall appears at the Artrix on Saturday, November 26 (8pm start). Hall has carved out a successful career on television and the stand-up circuit as a bright and inventive comedian with an absurd

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Bromsgrove Rovers Supporters Club

The fourth AGM of the BRSS Ltd was held at the DD & S Club, Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove. It was attended by the board of directors. Rob Birch took on the role of chairman in the absence of Des Best. Des Best sent his apologies. The committee were

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Bridge brought back memories

SIR - Seeing the old photograph of Berwick Bridge recently in the Evening News brought back many happy childhood memories. There were two holes within the bridge either side. The "dare" was to crawl through and drop out the other end or ease yourself

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Chaddesley Corbett WI

THE 85th birthday meeting of Chaddesley Corbett WI was held in the village hall on November 2. Vice-president Rosabelle Needham welcomed everyone to the meeting in the absence of president Barbara Maskell, who was on holiday in Peru. Rosabelle said she

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Stoke Prior WI

PRESIDENT Betty Wolsey welcomed Lenchton, Redditch and Saltway members to the group meeting hosted by Stoke Prior. After the singing of Jerusalem, group co-ordinator Monica Carden also welcomed members from the many WIs incorporated in the group. Following

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Thousands turn out to pay their respects

SILENT tributes were paid to the war dead in Bromsgrove, Droitwich, Rubery and surrounding villages both on Friday and Sunday, when the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country were remembered. A procession led by Bromsgrove's

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Kids are well read

YOUNG bookworms gathered in Rubery library to collect their much-coveted reading awards. The presentation saw the children collect their certificates and medals. Children's librarian Sally Albutt said: "It was part of our Reading Voyage project, which

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The new bailiff is unveiled

BROMSGROVE'S new Court Leet Bailiff is a man used to having people fall asleep in his presence, but he doesn't mind because he is senior consultant anaesthetist at the Alexandra hospital. Dr Barrie Fischer, a member of the court for ten years, was chosen

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Treasure island

WATCH out all you Lickey End landlubbers. Long John Silver and his swashbuckling, scurvy pirate crew are dropping anchor for a yarn about dark deeds and adventure on the high seas. The Lickey End Players have been rehearsing since September for their

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There's more to us than raising charity cash

A LIVELY social group for Bromsgrove businessmen is appealing for more members to join in a host of fun activities. Bromsgrove Round Table is well known for its popular Santa sleigh each year, which collects thousands of pounds for good causes, but there

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Keelan keeps calm to call ambulance

A BRAVE eight-year-old boy called for an emergency ambulance crew after his little sister fell ill and started to have convulsions at their Spa home. Keelan Merry, who lives with his mother Michelle and five-year-old sister Alexandra in Charles Henry

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Upwardly mobile

YOUNGSTERS at a Spa school were taught the importance of keeping a healthy body thanks to the help of a special mobile classroom. The Life Education mobile classroom visited Chawson First School, Wych Road, for two days from Monday, November 7. Pupils

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Tributes paid to former Spa governor

FORMER colleagues and family members have paid tribute to a retired teacher and former Droitwich school governor after his unexpected death. Peter Cook, from Shire Way, Droitwich, died at home on Tuesday, November 4 aged 62 after suffering a heart attack

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Reds battle to Cumbrian win

Nationwide Conference North Redditch United 2 This is the sort of performance Redditch United will need to put in on a regular basis if they are to avoid relegation. It wasn't a pretty match at Borough Park, and the performance from Rod Brown's men won't

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Walking to glory

ATHLETICS: Race-walker Sharon Tonks took the honours in the latest Winter League meeting, held at Birmingham's Perry Park at the weekend. The Redditch & Bromsgrove athlete had been looking forward to a head-to-head with Commonwealth Games silver medalist

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Health chiefs under fire

PASSIONS were running high at Thursday's public meeting held to discuss the proposed downgrading of the Alexandra Hospital. Redditch Town Hall council chamber was packed with more than 300 residents eager to have their say about the plans, which could

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Finish with a flourish

ALL the knockout finals have now taken place in the 2005 Wychavon Parish Games. Although all the individual games in the ladies' darts final were fairly close, Pebworth managed to find the final doubles more consistently to emerge as winners ahead of

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

Evesham Utd U-15 3, Taunton Tn 3 THE Robins started well in Satu-rday's first leg AMROS Invitation Cup clash and they were rewarded this with an early goal from Tom Graham. However Town equalised in an instant and, minutes later, the early dominance was

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Let's seek future elsewhere

HAVING attended the public meeting at Redditch Town Hall on Thursday, I was left feeling that, under the current management of the Worcestershire Acute NHS Hospitals Trust, the people of Redditch and Bromsgrove will still inevitably experience a severe

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Shooting news

COMPETITORS were greeted by miserable weather for the first meeting of the month at Throckmorton Clay Pigeon Shooting Club and only the keenest were willing to brave the elements and attempt a good score on the layouts. On the Down the Line discipline

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Protest march planned

A PROTEST march for residents angered by the proposed cuts to the Alexandra Hospital is being planned for January. Redditch man Neal Stote was so infuriated after Thursday's public meeting he felt driven to set up his own campaign to oppose the possible

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Biker's death

A TEENAGE motorcyclist from Oakenshaw South has died following a collision on Woodrow Drive last Monday. He has been named as 17-year-old Vincent Laurence Burton from Newton Close. He died on Saturday in Coventry's Walsgrave Hospital. Mr Burton had been

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Kingfisher is due for a lift

I WOULD like to take this opportunity to respond to Julie Robinson's complaint regarding the car park lifts in the Kingfisher Centre (Letters, November 9). In particular Mrs Robinson states: "I have tried to contact the centre via their website but that

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Girl is safe and well

A TEENAGE girl who went missing last week has been found safe and well. Stephanie Knight, 15, from the Webheath area, had last been seen at about 4pm on Thursday near Redditch town centre but was found on Tuesday morning.

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Now time to ban fireworks

JUST thought I would put pen to paper, as I listen to fireworks going off yet again, to express my frustration at the mindless people who still think it is OK ok to let fireworks off this late into November, nine days after bonfire night. They do not

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First for tree festival

A UNIQUE festival featuring the weirdest, wackiest and most colourfully decorated Christmas trees will be held in Redditch next month. St George's Church is holding the town's first Christmas tree festival from December 2-4 to raise pots of cash for the

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I'm let down over housing

I WAS born in Redditch in 1943 and am now a pensioner. I also raised my family here. I have just applied to go on the housing list for a bungalow. I have health problems. My points card was confusing. It read 310 and I thought that could not be right.

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Donation to DIAL

A GENEROUS donation of £3,000 was handed over to a charity supporting disabled people in Redditch and north Worcestershire. Representatives from the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) gave North Worces-tershire Disability Information and Advice

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Illness hampering quest for work

I SUFFER with asthma and eczema. I am 46 years old and because of my asthma, my stature is not what you would expect it to be for a man of my age. In April, I got dumped onto the dole after a temporary position and now find I am experiencing difficulties

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Cash prize in green scheme

REDDITCH Council is to study residents' recycling behaviour and increase the amount of waste recycled each year through a pilot scheme called Don't Bin it to Win it! The town needs to hit a Government target of recycling 18 per cent of all waste by March

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Truant's mum jailed

THE mum of a Greenlands teenager has been given a prison sentence after her son attended school for just 19 days in more than a year. Susan Brookes admitted she failed to ensure her son John Brookes attended school and was given a 21-day jail sentence

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Tidy up will deter youths

LANDSCAPING work in an historic Redditch cemetery has not only improved it but will also deter youngsters from gathering there, a town councillor has said. Councillor Carole Gandy, who represents the Headless Cross area, is delighted with the work to

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Students take play on tour

DRAMA students at Trinity High School will be spreading an anti-bullying message across the town this month. A group from the Easemore Road school will take the themed play on tour to middle schools including Walkwood, Woodfield and Birchensale. Head

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Cookhill Keyboard Club

A FANTASTIC evening's entertainment was given at Cookhill Village Hall on November 2 when the club's annual professional concert was given by Yamaha's Ryan Edwards on his EL900 electronic organ. A full capacity audience was enthralled by Ryan's superb

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Church in urgent need of organist

A TALENTED musician is needed to crank up the organ at St Stephen's Church in Redditch. The Rev Patricia Barford said the church urgently needs a new organist to play at Sunday services and special occasions. The position has become available following

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Let there be light!

CHRISTMAS officially gets underway at the Kingfisher Centre when the seasonal lights are switched on tomorrow. The centre's cheeky monkey mascot, Charlie, along with BRMB DJ Elliot Webb will turn on the festive lights in Worcester Square at 7pm. At the