THE design for a new coat of arms had been agreed by Bromsgrove Rural District Council. It consisted of a sickle to represent industry, a demi crosier because of Bishop Latimer's association with Alvechurch, a beech tree to signify Frankley Beeches and the four stones of Clent, supported by a green and white wreath. Beneath would be the motto in Latin, "By Service Let Us Govern."

CHILDREN'S Christmas annuals were in short supply this year. The Messenger office shop however had Rupert books at 5/- (25p) and Eagle annuals at 10/- (50p). Other titles available were Tiny Tim, Radio Fun and Tiny Tots.

BLACKWELL Convalescent Home, which had had many name changes since it began, was about to get another due to the increasing number of bed cases it was admitting. In future it would be known as Blackwell Recovery Hospital.

A CORRESPONDENT writing to the paper said an incident in Bromsgrove cemetery on Sunday, when he witnessed two youths throwing fireworks about, had "made his blood boil." He told them it was a place of reverence and ordered them away but he said they appeared to be totally unmoved.

BROMSGROVE Rovers was to take on their old enemy Redditch United in a Worcestershire Senior Cup clash on Saturday. Admission prices to the Victoria Ground was men 1/6 (7.5p) women 1/- (5p) and boys 6d (2.5p), including tax. Admission to the ground and stand was 2/6 (12.5p).