AFTER a gap of a year or so in hostilities, Britain was again preparing to be at war with France around this time two centuries ago.

The Worcester Journal of 1803 reported on some of the local consequences of the new military build-up.

"His Royal Highness, the Duke of Cumberland arrived here yesterday from London to join his Regiment, the 15th Light Dragoons, part of which has been some time stationed in this city. This morning His Royal Highness visited our venerable Bishop at Hartlebury Palace.

"All members of the Worcestershire Cavalry Yeomanry are particularly requested to be punctual in assembling, well mounted and fully armed, before the Guildhall in the City of Worcester at 10 o'clock on the forenoon of April 11 to be trained and disciplined for five days under their own officers.

"His Majesty has ordered the Militia of the County and City of Worcester to be embodied with the least possible delay. Notice is hereby given that all the non-commissioned officers and privates are required to assemble outside the Guildhall on April 5, there to be embodied accordingly."

No licence to roast sheep

VILLAGE folk planning celebrations at Hallow for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II were angry with the Ministry of Food at this time half-a-century ago.

The Journal of 1953 explained: "The Hallow Coronation Committee are extremely upset with the Ministry over the village's proposed outdoor roast on the evening of Coronation Day. A local farmer has offered a large sheep free of charge for the roast, but the Ministry of Food has written refusing a licence.

"It states that it might be willing to permit an ox roast, but not one involving a sheep. However, the Hallow committee considers this to be ridiculous, particularly as an ox would cost at least £90 while they could have a sheep for nothing."