WORK began on repairing the 160-year-old canal tunnel at Tardebigge which had closed last year when it became unsafe. The delay had been caused because of difficulties in hiring a suitable contractor to carry out the specialised work.

STORE wars had broken out in Bromsgrove and the new Fine Fare supermarket in Market Street was said to be the cause. The town's International Store was closing temporarily to be revamped into a cheaper Price Rite and there were warnings from the Chamber of Trade that smaller retailers would soon feel the pinch. Its secretary said the district council had been hoodwinked into believing the store's pre-opening promise that only a small area of floor space would be devoted to groceries.

ONE of Britain's oldest women Edith Pheysey from Woodgate Way, Belbroughton died five months after celebrating her 105th birthday. On her 100th she had voted and had taken her dog for walks until three years ago.

SIX children belonging to the Norris family from Fockbury, Bromsgrove hit the right note when they played music continuously for an incredible 40 hours and 30 minutes to raise cash for Herefordshire and Worcestershire County Youth Orchestra. Robert, Rufus, Vivien, Duncan, Hillary and Meriol got themselves sponsored to the tune of £100 for the good cause.