Archive

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31/7/06 - Newton predicting a bright County future

MARK Newton has his sights firmly set on establishing Worcestershire in the top flight of English first-class cricket. The County are currently flying high in second place in division two of the Liverpool Victoria County Championship and look a good

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31/7/06 - Call-ups could scupper title bid

THERE is an outside chance that Zaheer Khan and Phil Jaques may both be missing for Worcestershire's crucial end-of-season run-in. Having returned to Worcester today after five weeks playing for Australia `A' in the Top End Series, it has been revealed

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31/7/06 - Kabir takes safety first stance with side injury

WORCESTERSHIRE paceman Kabir Ali is taking a safety first approach to the intercostal injury that has kept him out of the County's last two games. The England seamer missed his side's 58-run home win over Gloucestershire and has not made the squad which

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31/7/06 - Popular Vincent receives County cap from skipper

LOU Vincent was awarded his county colours on the first day of the Liverpool Victoria County Championship game against Gloucestershire at New Road by club captain Vikram Solanki. Vincent came to the club as cover for overseas opening batsman Phil Jaques

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Halesowen Town 0 Harriers 0

Saturday, July 29, 2006 KIDDERMINSTER Harriers completed their second successive pre-season friendly without scoring a goal with a stalemate at Southern League Premier Division club Hales-owen Town. Harriers failed to prise open a resolute Yeltz defence

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City 0 Bristol Rovers 2

Saturday, July 29, 2006 TWO experienced campaigners used all their know-how to shine in a match that was mainly a run-out for both sides' young starlets. Unfortunately for Worcester City, Bristol Rovers' older heads Paul Trollope and Steve Phillips

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31/7/06 - Hick to be offered one-year extension

WORCESTERSHIRE will to-day announce that batting legend Graeme Hick has been offered a one-year extension to his playing contract. Speculation has been rife all season as to whether 40-year-old Hick would consider playing on after this season and if

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31/7/06 - County bounce back for last over victory

DESPITE Worcestershire sl-umping to 70-7, a battling 132-run eighth wicket partnership between Roger Sillence and Ray Price set up an unlikely nine-run victory for the hosts over West Indies `A'. The duo revived the County to a respectable 213 all out

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31/7/06 - North stifles County bid to close gap on leaders

MARCUS North put himself in the shop window for next season with a superb century that steered Derbyshire to a draw against Worcestershire at Chesterfield. The 27-year-old ended his short spell with Derbyshire by scoring 161 to take his aggregate in

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29/7/06 - Preece praise for City Walsall show

WORCESTER City boss Andy Preece believes his team go into today's match with a Bristol Rovers XI (3pm) at St George's Lane on the back of their best pre-season performance of the campaign so far. Preece watched his side draw 1-1 with Walsall on Thursday

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29/7/06 - Kabir set to miss tourists

KABIR Ali is erring on the side of caution and plans to sit out Worcestershire's 50-over match with the touring West Indies `A' side tomorrow (10.45am). Kabir has missed the last two Liverpool Victoria County Championship division two games against

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What's on

There's plenty in the way of Shakespeare as we head towards autumn, with performers coming from as far afield as Brazil and the USA as well as all over the UK, while Patrick Stewart appears in two separate plays. Another double-header comes courtesy of

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Playing a round at Enville Golf Club

A favourite song of my dear departed dad was I Talk to the Trees, and if he'd ever ventured onto Enville Golf Club's Highgate course I'm convinced he would have finished up hoarse! As for the many golfers who no doubt enjoy the innumerable delights of

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First editions

Book reviews are written by Sarah Broadhurst exclusively for www.lovereading.co.uk, the UK's newest and most exciting online book shop, helping you choose your next book. Download and print off opening extracts, be guided by the exclusive author 'like

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The worker returns

Before his redundancy Lee Hanson was an international Human Resources Director. Now, in addition to occasional writing and his househusband duties, he works part-time as a Human Resources consultant. It had been over a year since I had last clocked in

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Sooty and gang get busy

CHILDREN and adults can delight in the arrival of the country's most mischievous bear at the Palace Theatre. The Izzy Wizzy Holiday Show arrives in Redditch on Saturday with two shows at 1pm and 3.30pm. Sooty, Sweep, Soo and the rest of the gang invite

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Sounds of the islands

HOT new musical development Ska Cubano is out to impress at Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park on Friday. As part of Sounds in the Round 2006, Ska Cubano will appear in the open air arena at mac, providing the meshing of Jamaican rhythms with crazy Cuban brass

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What's On guide

Wednesday, July 26 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Until September 2. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com Thursday, July 27 Seaside Frolics Show, Solihull Arts Complex, Touchwood, Solihull. Also July

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Hollyoaks

NICK PICKARD plays Tony Hutchinson: A worrier, who lacks self-confidence but always does the decent thing, Tony is ever the budding entrepreneur. He has recently handed the day-to-day running of The Loft over to Max and OB, choosing to focus his time

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Beauty

NORTHERN LIGHTS Lancme looks ahead to the start of autumn with the sophisticated Luna Chic colour collection, featuring opulent, glistening hues inspired by the spectacular Northern Lights. Ellipse Precious Effect eye shadows (RRP £15) will create a bewitching

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Thank you!

Acorns wish to say a big 'Thank You' to the following who have kindly helped to make today happen: Hollyoaks (Mersey TV) football team, and in particular Nick Pickard for his kind assistance in the run-up to the event. Emmerdale football team. Halesowen

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Ladies' night

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Location, location

SITUATED in idyllic surroundings at Shatterford, the Red Lion is a wonderful spot in which to enjoy a meal or a drink - and with the new owner planning to update the historic building with a stylish refurbishment, the interior will soon be every bit as

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Hitting the spot

Looking out over the manicured greens of the golf course, there can be few better places to enjoy a meal than Redditch's Abbey Hotel. But while golfers curse the rough or grumble about a dropped shot, all that can be heard from inside the hotel's Bramblings

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In very good taste

Sweetcorn and chilli soup with crab and ginger tortellini Serves 8 Sweetcorn soup 1 kilo frozen sweetcorn 4 shallots, finely diced 2 cloves garlic 50ml Thai fish sauce 100ml sweet chilli sauce 1 stick lemongrass 1.5 ltr semi-skimmed milk 1. In a large

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The art of glass

The second International Festival of Glass, held at various venues within Stourbridge's historic Glass Quarter, takes place this year between August 25 and August 28. The packed four-day programme of events promises an inspiring celebration of glassmaking

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County bounce back for last over victory

DESPITE Worcestershire sl-umping to 70-7, a battling 132-run eighth wicket partnership between Roger Sillence and Ray Price set up an unlikely nine-run victory for the hosts over West Indies 'A'. The duo revived the County to a respectable 213 all out

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Tipper finds top form as OEs triumph

A SEVEN-WICKET haul from Stuart Tipper, coupled with a century opening partnership, saw Worcester's Old Eliza-bethans topple second division leaders Cannock at the Memorial Ground. Skipper Sean Cairney won the toss and invited the visitors to have first

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Kidderminster lose out with just three balls left

KIDDERMINSTER'S four-wicket loss to Moseley in the premier division came with just three balls left in the game. Having posted a reasonable total of 248-9, it was never going to be big enough on a good wicket and a very fast outfield. Moseley won the

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Drakes Cross WI

MEMBERS and visitors at the well-attended June meeting enjoyed a talk on the history of pub signs. Maurice Dunn worked for a brewery company and developed an interest in the origin of pub signs and has researched his subject widely and regards them as

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Everywoman's Circle

ON June 8, speaker Ray Sturdy presented Malvern, Unforgettable Memories. His talk, with the aid of slides, covered the special Victorian attractions of Malvern Spa and hills. It was interesting to note it was a favourite spot for the rich and Queen Victoria

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Hopwood WI

AT the July meeting, details of forthcoming events were given. On July 20, the Luncheon Club met at Harvington Hall. A fundraising skittles evening will be held on July 29. Though no meetings are held in August, there are two social events. On August

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Kington with Dormston WI

PAM Hewitson, standing in for Delice, welcomed members to the July meeting. Jenny Cox used her bursary on a weekend course at Farncombe Estate which included yoga, relaxation, meditation and head massage. Margaret reported on a relaxing evening at Ipsley

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Studley Daytime WI

ON July 5, members watched a creative microwave cookery demonstration by Sue Robinson, of Micromagic. She emphasised the advantages of microwave cooking such as less washing up, no heat or steam in the kitchen and greater safety for the disabled or arthritic

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Wythall WI

SHEILA O'Shaughnessy thanked everyone who had supported the recent garden party and particularly thanked Margaret Harrison for hosting such a relaxed afternoon in her lovely garden. About £400 had been raised towards supporting Macmillan Nurses and this

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United look at Rovers stopper

REDDITCH United are running the rule over giant defender Exodus Geohaghan after the stopper opted to leave Southern League Midlands Division neighbours Bromsgrove Rovers. The 21-year-old central defender and long throw expert was set to figure in United's

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Curtis takes honour

ASTWOOD Bank's Dark Lane Angling Club fished their fourth Aggregate Henley Spring Cup on the Arrow on Saturday. Dave Curtis took the honours with a fine 21lb 12oz haul off Oversley Meadow. Tony Sabin grabbed second place with 16lb 12oz (with a 6lb 10oz

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100 years ago - July 28, 1906

A LABOURER from Belfast was brought up in custody charged with being drunk at Mount Pleasant, Redditch, in July. Police Constable Lee said he saw prisoner who was drunk. There was also complaints from tradesmen as to prisoner's abusive language when they

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50 years ago - July 27, 1956

IN the early hours of Sunday morning a railway signalman was passing the works of Harris Brush Co in Stoke Prior when he saw flames coming from the works assembly. As a result two engines from Redditch fire brigade were called over in support of two from

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Rare chance to hear the songs of England

SUMMER concerts continue at Tardebigge Church with the next recital on Sunday. The second concert of the Celebrating English Song at Tardebigge series features tenor James Gilchrist, one of the country's best-known oratorio singers, and Anna Tilbrook

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A night to remember

REDDITCH entertainer John Emms is offering a special night of entertainment on Saturday, August 5. The popular Astwood Bank showman presents A Night To Remember at Studley Village Hall with an array of music, monologues and sketches. He said he had done

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Sounds of the islands

HOT new musical development Ska Cubano is out to impress at Birmingham's Cannon Hill Park on Friday. As part of Sounds in the Round 2006, Ska Cubano will appear in the open air arena at mac, providing the meshing of Jamaican rhythms with crazy Cuban brass

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'Church are hitting the goal trail

ALVECHURCH will not be struggling for goals next season if their first two pre-season games are any benchmark. The Lye Meadow side rained in nine goals ahead of last night's planned friendly at home to Conference North neighbours Redditch United, and

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Bank on the rise with win

ASTWOOD Bank gave a huge boost to their Division One survival chances with a nailbiting one-wicket win at basement boys Romsley on Saturday. Dan Evans' side started the day a hair's breadth above what could tunr out to be a four-tem cull of the top division

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Burbidge blow

THERE were mixed fortunes for Honda CB500 race ace Andy Burbidge at the weekend who crashed twice at Oulton Park but still managed to post a battling fourth place to keep him in touch in the New Era Motorcycle Superclub Championship. Burbidge was knocked

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Pain for village hopefuls

STUDLEY and Inkberrow both lost ground in the race for the Prudden Road Surfacing Tennis League runners-up spot behind champions Stratford. Studley crashed 3-1 to Stratford and Inkberrow played out a 2-2 draw against high-flying rivals Shipston to allow

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Clubs given cash boost

CLUBS including Redditch, Alcester, Woodrush, Kings Norton, Five Ways Old Edwardians and Solihull will benefit next season from the RFU's decision to pay injury and liability insurance next season. The sport's national governing body will take away the

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Fourth for town aces

REDDITCH swam very competitively to finish fourth in a Mercian League round three gala, just three points off third place. First places went to Lydia May (10 years) 50m freestyle, Taylor Hartley (10) 50m breaststroke, Sophie Bridgman (10) 25m butterfly

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Redditch lose

GOLF: Redditch crashed 7-1 at Moseley in the West Midlands Scratch League and lost out 3-1 at Fulford Heath in the West Midland League. The seniors went down 4 - 2 at Churchill and Blakedown but the Ladies provided some relief with a 3 - friendly win

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29/7/06 - Preece praise for City Walsall show

WORCESTER City boss Andy Preece believes his team go into today's match with a Bristol Rovers XI (3pm) at St George's Lane on the back of their best pre-season performance of the campaign so far. Preece watched his side draw 1-1 with Walsall on Thursday

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Choking tragedy of tot, 3

FAMILY and friends of an Abbeydale toddler who died tragically on the way to her first holiday have paid touching tribute to her. Ellie Conlon, three, of Vernon Close, was on the way to Brean Sands with mum and dad Sheryl and James Conlon and brother

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'Code red' at birth unit

A REDDITCH granddad whose daughter-in-law gave birth in a full-to-capacity maternity department at the Alexandra Hospital on Sunday thinks plans to scrap it are "ludicrous". David Towler says he does not understand how health chiefs can even consider

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Stranded students swelter at station

ALMOST 100 Redditch school children were stranded for three hours at Bournville railway station in sweltering temperatures after train tracks buckled in the heat. And their teacher, Sue Amor, of Birchensale Middle School, has criticised the way Central

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Rising star impresses in quest for top role

A TALENTED Redditch teenager proved to be one of the "favourite things" of judges on a new television programme. Nicolette Morgan, 17, impressed the panel of experts during her audition for the sought-after part of Maria Von Trapp in a West End version

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City 0 Bristol Rovers 2

Saturday, July 29, 2006 TWO experienced campaigners used all their know-how to shine in a match that was mainly a run-out for both sides' young starlets. Unfortunately for Worcester City, Bristol Rovers' older heads Paul Trollope and Steve Phillips played

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Top marks for caring school

BIRCHENSALE Middle School "has a special place in the community that cares about all its pupils" was the verdict of education chiefs following a recent visit. Ofsted inspectors gave the Bridley Moor Road school the big thumbs up in their report published

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Just fancy that!

CHILDREN at Honeypots Nursery stepped forward to raise cash for a good cause. The youngsters did a sponsored fancy dress walk from their base in St George's to Arrow Valley Lake to raise money for Barnardos. And they held a fun day on Saturday to raise

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Cash up for grabs

COMMUNITIES in Redditch can benefit from cash grants thanks to electricity company Central Networks. Grants of up to £2,500 to communities across Worcestershire and Herefordshire are being offered as part of a newly launched £70,000 fund. Customer operations

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Arson attack at mosque site

A FIRE has caused thousands of pounds of damage at the site of Redditch's new mosque. The blaze, which is believed to have started shortly before 3am last Sunday, caused about £3,000 damage to two mobile units at the Jinnah Road site. No one was hurt.

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Touching tributes to tragic drugs mum

FAMILY and friends of a young mum who killed herself last year have paid tribute to her and offered advice to others struggling to cope with a relative's drug addiction. Claire Prodanovic, of Pedmore Close, Woodrow, said although her best friend Leila

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Shadow minister praises teachers

THE Shadow Education Minister has praised the dedication and resilience of Redditch headteachers, staff and parents in the face of the low level of funding Worcestershire receives. Maria Millar MP made her comments following her visit to Arrow Vale High

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It's time for tea!

AUDIENCES can enjoy an evening of summer entertainment with the latest performace by an amateur group this weekend. Redditch Amateur Theatre Society (RATS) presents Tea on the Lawn at St Luke's Memorial Hall on Saturday at 7.30pm. The evening will include

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Reptile runaway

A 50-YEAR-old tortoise is on the loose after it escaped from a Hollywood garden. The tortoise was last seen in the back garden of the Simms Lane home at noon on Sunday, July 16 and it is believed it may have escaped near the shopping area at Drakes Cross

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'Gong' for dedicated fundraiser

A FUNDRAISER who set up the Redditch and Alcester branch of Leukaemia Research and has raised more than £500,000 for the charity has been awarded an MBE. Tony Caldwell, a former manager of the Natwest Bank in Redditch, found out about his award last month

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Author's Cairo calling

A PROLIFIC Redditch writer is jetting off to the land of the pharoahs to teach children the power of the pen. Irene Yates will be spending a week in Cairo, Egypt's capital, holding a writing workshop for school children. She said she was very much looking

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Lifeguard club raided

A LIFEGUARD club is faced with a fundraising challenge after equipment worth more than £800 was stolen. A yellow kayak and a red and yellow rescue ski belonging to Redditch Life Saving and Lifeguard Club were stolen from Arrow Valley Countryside Centre

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Fun at skatepark

REDDITCH skatepark in Matchborough will hold an open evening tomorrow from 5-9pm. The Icknield Street Drive park is offering a free buffet, a range of stands and demonstrations from BMXers and skateboarders. Skatepark founder Steve Rooke said everyone

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31/7/06 - Hick to be offered one-year extension

WORCESTERSHIRE will to-day announce that batting legend Graeme Hick has been offered a one-year extension to his playing contract. Speculation has been rife all season as to whether 40-year-old Hick would consider playing on after this season and if he

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31/7/06 - North stifles County bid to close gap on leaders

MARCUS North put himself in the shop window for next season with a superb century that steered Derbyshire to a draw against Worcestershire at Chesterfield. The 27-year-old ended his short spell with Derbyshire by scoring 161 to take his aggregate in six

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31/7/06 - Call-ups could scupper title bid

THERE is an outside chance that Zaheer Khan and Phil Jaques may both be missing for Worcestershire's crucial end-of-season run-in. Having returned to Worcester today after five weeks playing for Australia 'A' in the Top End Series, it has been revealed

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31/7/06 - Kabir takes safety first stance with side injury

WORCESTERSHIRE paceman Kabir Ali is taking a safety first approach to the intercostal injury that has kept him out of the County's last two games. The England seamer missed his side's 58-run home win over Gloucestershire and has not made the squad which

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Plea to keep school safe

AN Alcester school which has been dogged by vandalism is calling for hawk-eyed residents to be extra vigilant during the summer break. Heads of St Nicholas' Primary are hoping antisocial behaviour in the school grounds will be stamped out with the promise

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Shotgun suicide tragedy

A RETIRED builder found dead in his Alcester home with gunshot wounds to his head took his own life, an inquest heard. Peter Lively, 74, was found by his wife Barbara in the garden of their Icknield Row home on April 11 at about 1pm. A gun, which Mr Lively

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Town at its best for judges

SUMMER is always marked in Alcester by its bloomin' marvellous display of hanging baskets, plants, flowers and arrangements around every corner. And this year was no exception, with efforts being stepped up for the town to look its best for the annual

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Plea to driver of big tractor

POLICE are appealing for the driver of a large green tractor who failed to stop after an accident to come forward. The collision between the tractor and a lorry happened on Wednesday, July 12 at 4pm on the A422 at Arrow near Alcester. The white Precision

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Music road show comes to school

A TOP electronic music company has made its first musical tour stop at an Alcester school. Roland UK, who design, manufacture and distribute electronic musical instruments, got the first leg of their Roland Road Show tour off the ground last week at Alcester

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Have a say on services

RESIDENTS in south Warwickshire have the chance to tell the council what they think about the services they receive. A special consultation exercise is being carried out by Stratford District Council and residents will be given a survey to gauge their

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CLAXTON

CLAXTON Betty Michael, Valerie and Ann would like to thank Family, Friends and Neighbours for their kind support and cards received in memory of Betty. Also thanks for the flowers and donations to the British Heart Foundation. Published in paper 31/07

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RUFFINI

RUFFINI Ida Passed away peacefully on July 22nd, aged 89 years, with her Family by her side. She will be sadly missed by her Brother, Sister, Nieces and Nephews. Funeral Service to take place at the Catholic Church of The Most Holy Trinity, Ledbury, on

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Hick to be offered one-year extension

WORCESTERSHIRE will to-day announce that batting legend Graeme Hick has been offered a one-year extension to his playing contract. Speculation has been rife all season as to whether 40-year-old Hick would consider playing on after this season and if he

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City rookies shine as old hands give Rovers edge

TWO experienced campaigners used all their know-how to shine in a match that was mainly a run-out for both sides' young starlets. Unfortunately for Worcester City, Bristol Rovers' older heads Paul Trollope and Steve Phillips played the crucial roles in

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29/7/06 - Worcs bid to extend hot form

WORCESTERSHIRE are still in with a chance of a fifth consecutive Liverpool Victoria County Championship division two win, despite a Derbyshire fightback. Michael Di Venuto and Marcus North made 99 and an unbeaten 79 respectively after 107 from Steve Davies

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Hereford allow three-goal lead to slip away

HEREFORD United wound up their pre-season programme with an entertaining 3-3 draw with their near neighbours Cheltenham at Edgar Street. But the Bulls will be disappointed that they did not seize the opportunity of concluding the build-up to their return

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Stalemate for Yates as his Harriers draw blank

KIDDERMINSTER Harriers completed their second successive pre-season friendly without scoring a goal with a stalemate at Southern League Premier Division club Hales-owen Town. Harriers failed to prise open a resolute Yeltz defence although it was not through

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Tomkins destroys Worcester with his huge hitting

WORCESTER suffered another crushing defeat at the hands of Wombourne when Greg Tomkins scored 129 not out, hitting Worcester's bowlers to all parts of his club's ground. With Shemer and Hill scoring 40 and 55 not out, they helped Wombourne to amass a

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Alcester & District Local History Society

A TOUR of Feckenham was the itinerary for this year's ''Evening Visit''. Margaret Cockburn, chairman of Feckenham Forest History Society, hosted the enjoyable event. With the aid of leaflets created for the occasion, the Alcester visitors toured the landmarks

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Alcester Bridge Club

IN July, members gathered for the AGM, followed by a delicious buffet supper and a short session of bridge. A new committee was elected, with Jean Underwood as chairman. The club has had another successful year and members voted to make a donation from

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Alcester WI

PRESIDENT Pauline Vining welcomed members on a beautiful July evening. The speaker was Ed Shore talking about taking his wife, car and caravan overland to India. A real wanderer, he had travelled twice round the world and had fallen in love with India

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Cookhill Keyboard Club

THE full-house July meeting concluded with a superb concert by Stuart Derry, of Cranes Music, Worcester. The club's next meeting will be on Wednesday, August 2 at 7.30 for 8pm, when the concluding concert will be given by two of the youngest members and

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Inkberrow WI

MEMBERS were unlucky again this year when heavy showers meant that, at the last minute, they had to abandon the idea of a July summer garden meeting and meet at the village hall as usual. But Stella came up with the solution - if we couldn't go to her

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Ipsley with Crabbs Cross WI

ON a beautiful summer evening, 40 members met at Broadhouse Farm, Cutnall Green, to celebrate the 40th birthday of Ipsley WI, Crabbs Cross with Hunt End WI having celebrated 40 years previously. A meal followed a walk around the Miller family's delightful

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Kingfisher WI

THE July meeting included a report from the delegate from Bentley Pauncefoot on the AGM held in Cardiff in June. In response to a donation of £34 and cakes to the WI stall at the Alexandra Hosptal fete, there was a letter of thanks and the news the total

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Ladies Probus Club of Alcester

AT the meeting on July 12, the speaker was Joanne Gloger, the curator of Forge Mill Needle Museum, with a talk entitled ''There's more to a needle maker than meets the eye''. Joanne lives in Crabbs' Cross and has been the museum's curator for the last

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Wythall Gardening Club

ON a hot July evening, the speaker was Elaine Gorton, from Tinpenny Farm, Fiddington, near Tewkesbury. Elaine is a plantaholic and chairman of the Hardy Plant Society and a member of the National Council for the Conservation of Plants and Gardens and

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All at stake in crucial match

STUDLEY'S home game against Birmingham League Division Two strugglers Fordhouses has taken on added importance after the Washford Fields side's rain-hit losing draw at Evesham at the weekend. Although Studley skipper Richard Gregory has denied the match

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Rugby league is unveiled

ALCESTER can look forward to a derby crunch against neighbours Woodrush in the forthcoming season as a result of the RFU's latest local league reshuffle. Both sides have been placed in the new Midlands Five West (South) division, a change of leagues from

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What's On Guide

Wednesday, July 26 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Until September 2. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com Thursday, July 27 Seaside Frolics Show, Solihull Arts Complex, Touchwood, Solihull. Also July

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25 years ago - July 24,1981

DRY rot is threatening Redditch Parish Church and essential repair work must start immediately. Vital work costing £20,000 will start next month, although only a fraction of the money has been raised so far. "The job of getting rid of rot must get under

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Sooty and gang get busy

CHILDREN and adults can delight in the arrival of the country's most mischievous bear at the Palace Theatre. The Izzy Wizzy Holiday Show arrives in Redditch on Saturday with two shows at 1pm and 3.30pm. Sooty, Sweep, Soo and the rest of the gang invite

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Filling a gap in drama

REDDITCH-based amateur theatre group Bridging the Gap will present its first offering at Bromsgrove's Artrix this weekend. The group will perform Sarah Kane's 4:48 Psychosis tomorrow and Friday at the Artrix's studio theatre. Bridging the Gap is an amateur

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Big Bruvver on his way

JOE Brown's Touring and Recording Band is descending on Studley Village Hall this week with A Big Night Out With Big Bruvver. The show will arrive at the hall on Saturday. Tickets are on sale at the village hall or by calling 01386 48307.

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What's On guide

Wednesday, July 26 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Until September 2. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com Thursday, July 27 Seaside Frolics Show, Solihull Arts Complex, Touchwood, Solihull. Also July

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Home form to save Redditch

REDDITCH captain Nev Mason is pinning his faith on his side's proven home form to save the club from the drop into the Worcestershire County League. Saturday's abandonment has left the Birmingham Road side stuck in the relegation zone, fourth from bottom

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Washout changes nothing

IT is a case of 'as you were' in the Cotswold Hills League with only one fixture confirmed to have survived the stormy weather throughout the six divisions. Chipping Camden's 30-run victory over Overbury II was the only result in the league although three

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Ready for derby day

BOTH sides have evrything to play for as Five Ways Old Edwardians gear up for their derby clash at home to Wythall on Saturday (1.30pm start). The Warwickshire League was disrupted by the wet weather at the weekend but a series of rain-interrupted abandonments

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Buildbase frustrated

BUILDBASE ace Tristan Palmer experienced the highs and lows of racing at a scorching Oulton Park at the weekend, qualifying on the front row of the grid and keeping pace with the leadfers before crashing out late on. Teammate John Laverty had to settle

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United look at Rovers stopper

REDDITCH United are running the rule over giant defender Exodus Geohaghan after the stopper opted to leave Southern League Midlands Division neighbours Bromsgrove Rovers. The 21-year-old central defender and long throw expert was set to figure in United's

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Halesowen Town 0 Harriers 0

Saturday, July 29, 2006 KIDDERMINSTER Harriers completed their second successive pre-season friendly without scoring a goal with a stalemate at Southern League Premier Division club Hales-owen Town. Harriers failed to prise open a resolute Yeltz defence

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Parked cars threaten day trips for elderly

EMERGENCY access to a Tenbury residential home is being threatened by round-the-clock parking on double yellow lines and concerns have been raised about the safety and well-being of its elderly occupants. Long-running parking problems outside the Old

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Sudden rain hits fun day

TORRENTIAL rain deterred residents from turing out to a fun day held in aid of the Craig Evans Appeal. Organisers have expressed their disappointment that the glorious weather of recent weeks did not hold out for Saturday's community fundraiser held at

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Farewell to teachers

STAFF and pupils in Redditch and Studley bade fond farewells to headteachers and teachers who have dedicated years to education. Ipsley Middle School said goodbye to headteacher Phil Mitchell, who has worked within the schools pyramid for 29 years. He

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Teenagers assaulted

TWO teenager boys fell victim to assaults in separate incidents. A 15 year old was attacked by a group of seven men as he sat on grass by St Stephen's Church in Redditch town centre at 2.45pm on Saturday, July 15. He was sitting with some other people

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Designs on success

A REDDITCH pupil is flying high after achieving success in an engineering competition. Shane Kelleher, from Woodfield Middle School, was awarded second place in the national Think Engineering contest, launched by the Engineering Employers' Federation

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Tory leader in town

CONSERVATIVE leader David Cameron met Redditch Tories to discuss important issues in the town. Mr Cameron stopped off during a Midlands tour to meet Tory Partliamentary spokeswoman Karen Lumley and Redditch councillor Juliet Brunner. Matters on the agenda

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Help on homes

A HELPING hand could be given to vulnerable council tenants wanting to move house. Redditch Council executive committee is investigating a scheme which would help people wanting to move home but find it difficult - financially or physically. This would

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Band makes it to 'battle' final

RISING stars Page 44 have made it to the final of a national music contest in London at the end of this month. The Redditch-based band fought their way through the stages of the Emergenza Battle of the Bands Competition and will now take on opposition

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Golden days

AN Astwood Bank couple celebrate half-a- century of marriage this week. Margaret and Ray Davis, of Retreat Street, will mark their golden wedding anniversary on Friday with family celebrations and a tea party. They will also have some holidays later in

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Bogus gas men rob pensioner

BOGUS gas men stole cash from an elderly woman in Studley. The 83-year-old Toms Town Lane resident answered the door to a man at 3pm on Monday. He told her there had been a gas leak in the road and needed to check her house. She invited the thin, white

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Fairytale trip to castle for couple

A SPARKLING Church Hill couple celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on Thursday. Irene and David Williams, of Kingscote Close, have lived in Redditch for the past 25 years and enjoyed their special day in style thanks to a surprise present from

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Bowled over...

MEMBERS of an Inkberrow club have been bowled over by a generous grant from Wychavon District Council. Inkberrow Bowls Club received £3,250 to improve its changing facilities. Every year societies, clubs and projects in the district are invited to bid

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Mini moto CRUSHED

POLICE sent a stark message to people illegally riding mini motos by publicly crushing one. The vehicle, which was seized after being ridden in Southcrest, was destroyed on Friday in the first public crushing in the town. Antsocial behaviour co-ordinator

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Society blossoms at show

REDDITCH was in full bloom at an annual garden show held at Where Next Association headquarters. The town's garden society held its 20th flower and vegetable show at the Easemore Road centre on Saturday, July 15. Society chairman Nick Houghton said despite

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Budgets to stay axed

NEIGHBOURHOOD group budgets will not be reinstanted, Redditch Council's executive committee has ruled. The committee discussed bringing back the budgets after receiving requests from both the Batchley and Brockhill group and the Winyates and Winyates

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31/7/06 - County bounce back for last over victory

DESPITE Worcestershire sl-umping to 70-7, a battling 132-run eighth wicket partnership between Roger Sillence and Ray Price set up an unlikely nine-run victory for the hosts over West Indies 'A'. The duo revived the County to a respectable 213 all out

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Twisters in the spotlight

AN Alvechurch weather watcher will be storming a conference on tornadoes this weekend. Phil Thomas, who runs the village's weather station, will attend the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation conference at Birmingham University on Saturday and is

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31/7/06 - Newton predicting a bright County future

MARK Newton has his sights firmly set on establishing Worcestershire in the top flight of English first-class cricket. The County are currently flying high in second place in division two of the Liverpool Victoria County Championship and look a good bet

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Cop this!

REDDITCH police station opened its doors to the public on Sunday to offer an insight into how it operates. Visitors were able to see the mobile CCTV van in action and look around some of the other vehicles police use. Youngsters had the chance to play

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School's narrow escape

A LODGE Park school narrowly escaped serious damage after a fire was caught early at the weekend. Firefighters were called to Woodfield Middle School in Studley Road on Sunday night at about 9.45pm after a rubbish bin was set alight. Sub officer Jim Ball

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31/7/06 - Popular Vincent receives County cap from skipper

LOU Vincent was awarded his county colours on the first day of the Liverpool Victoria County Championship game against Gloucestershire at New Road by club captain Vikram Solanki. Vincent came to the club as cover for overseas opening batsman Phil Jaques

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Bike theft

A CHILD'S bike worth £99 was stolen from the garden of a Birmingham Road home. The black BMX X-Rated Mesh bike was taken from the back garden on the night of Sunday, July 16. Two young men are believed to have been seen running off with it. Anyone with

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29/7/06 - Kabir set to miss tourists

KABIR Ali is erring on the side of caution and plans to sit out Worcestershire's 50-over match with the touring West Indies 'A' side tomorrow (10.45am). Kabir has missed the last two Liverpool Victoria County Championship division two games against Gloucestershire

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Festive frolics!

FESTIVE spirits were not dampened by Saturday's summer downpour at a Christmas party held in Batchley to raise cash for charity. The novel event was held by David Bradshaw at his Woodland Road home so he can raise enough money to take part in the Aviva

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Scallywags celebrate

STAFF at a nursery in Alcester have spoken of their delight at the results of an inspection. Scallywags Pre-school in Church Street received praise by Ofsted inspectors for the quality and standards of care. The report said Scallywags gave good provision

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Roof fire drama

A ROOF fire at a home in Salford Priors is thought to have been started by a soldering iron being used at the house. Fire crews from Bidford and Alcester were called to the house in Cherry Trees on Wednesday, July 12 at 4pm. On arrival, they found a fire

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Social club raided

AN unknown amount of cash has been stolen from a social club in Wooton Wawen. The burglary happened in the early hours of Friday, July 14 at the Alcester Road club. Thieves got in at the back of the building and de-activated an alarm before removing a

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Brutal theft of bicycle

A TEENAGER had his bike stolen in a layby in Kings Coughton. The 15 year old from Alcester was in the layby on the A435 last Thursday when a man got out of a Land Rover Discovery, pushed him over and stole his bike. The white man, aged between 30-40,

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GALE

GALE Adam Congratulations on passing your Driving Test. Love Dad, Mum and Emily. Special thanks to David Webb, Surepass School of Motoring, Worcester. Published in paper 31/07/2006

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BENNETT

BENNETT Gordon Memories of a dear husband, remembered today and everyday. Loving wife Betty. Published in paper 31/07/2006

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Melting pot theatre

THE Worcester-based Melting Pot Theatre Company returns to the city's historic Greyfriars building in August with a treat for Shakespeare fans - the comic masterpiece that is Twelfth Night. The company will perform in the walled garden of the 15th century

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Sun-blessed Garda

Italy's fabled lake With a variety of diverse resorts to choose from, the shores of Lake Garda are the perfect place to enjoy the legendary Italian hospitality. For Victorian travellers in search of warmer climes, the shores of beautiful Lake Garda were

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What's On Guide

Wednesday, July 26 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham. Until September 2. Tickets on 0870 730 1234 or www.birminghamhippodrome.com Thursday, July 27 Seaside Frolics Show, Solihull Arts Complex, Touchwood, Solihull. Also July

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Filling a gap in drama

REDDITCH-based amateur theatre group Bridging the Gap will present its first offering at Bromsgrove's Artrix this weekend. The group will perform Sarah Kane's 4:48 Psychosis tomorrow and Friday at the Artrix's studio theatre. Bridging the Gap is an amateur

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Rare chance to hear the songs of England

SUMMER concerts continue at Tardebigge Church with the next recital on Sunday. The second concert of the Celebrating English Song at Tardebigge series features tenor James Gilchrist, one of the country's best-known oratorio singers, and Anna Tilbrook

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Big Bruvver on his way

JOE Brown's Touring and Recording Band is descending on Studley Village Hall this week with A Big Night Out With Big Bruvver. The show will arrive at the hall on Saturday. Tickets are on sale at the village hall or by calling 01386 48307.

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A night to remember

REDDITCH entertainer John Emms is offering a special night of entertainment on Saturday, August 5. The popular Astwood Bank showman presents A Night To Remember at Studley Village Hall with an array of music, monologues and sketches. He said he had done

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Help make a short life special

Support Acorns - your local children's hospice It's hard to imagine how you would cope if a child in your family had an illness for which there is no cure - a condition that would prevent them reaching adulthood. Yet this is the situation facing hundreds

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Emmerdale

JEFF HORDLEY plays Cain Dingle: The most loathed man in Emmerdale - even his family haven't got a good word to say about him. Not that Cain cares. This modern day Heathcliff is violent, spiteful and vindictive - and has made a career out of petty crime

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Acorns needs your help to care for more children

At present, Acorns has 12 out of its 30 beds closed at its three hospices. Families are still being offered end-of-life and emergency care, but some families have not been able to book respite care at the hospice. Respite care is important, as it provides

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Schedule

Hollyoaks v Emmerdale Gates open: 12:30pm Event hosted by: Galaxy Radio Entertainment starts: at 1pm Fun with: face painting Galaxy Djs v Acorns: 1 - 2.25pm Majorettes: 2.25 - 2.45pm Hollyoaks v Emmerdale Warm up: 14.45pm Kick off: 15:00pm Half time:

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From extreme challanges to sedate strolls

YOU can make a difference and raise lots of money for Acorns There are literally hundreds of ways that you, your friends and family can really help to make a difference to Acorns services and the children in our care. Whether your event is on a small

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Cup winners

Win a wardrobe of bras

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A home from home for special siblings

Alexandros and his sister Aliki love their visits to Acorns' Hospice in Worcester. Alexandros quickly finds his favourite toys, while Aliki loves the multisensory room, with its bubble towers, fibreoptic lights and different textures. It's a real home

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Passport to health

Top class dental treatment and cosmetic surgery can be prohibitively expensive in the UK, while operations such as hip replacements usually involve long waiting lists or paying to go private - but in Eastern Europe these treatments are available at a

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Local businesses supporting the Acorns Children's Hospice

Programme Sponsored by Stables & Co 01384 390581 Andrew Taplin 01384 440466 European Fleet Services 07767 202822 Waterside Windows 0121 7069633 Ashgrove Coppice Care Home 01384 413913 Rydale Windows 0121 559 4211 Tinkable 01384 373734 D&D Upholstery

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Diary

ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Black Country solicitors Waldrons treated guests to a day of top international women's tennis at the DFS Classic, staged at the Edgbaston Priory Club, where they saw India's most successful sportswoman of all time, Sania Mirza, beat

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Feast of local fare

NOW in its 11th year, the Ludlow Marches Food and Drink Festival is a celebration of local produce and of the area itself - the historic town, with over 500 listed buildings and an 11th century castle, is the perfect spot in which to spend a relaxed weekend

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Fresh from the farm

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Off the wall

Graffiti has come a long way since its early associations with illegal scrawling on public property - and its development into a recognised art form is perfectly illustrated by the work of Black Country artist Mac 1. His astonishingly realistic portraits