THERE had been a generous response from residents in the Rubery area to the appeal on behalf of the five local Territorial soldiers who had been killed when two tanks ran into their tents while they slept while in camp on Salisbury Plain. So far more than £400 had been raised for the families.

THERE was a good turnout of visitors to Bromsgrove Farmers' Club show which was held at Tom Powell's Stoke Court Farm. For the third year running Mr J Beckett, from Hewell House, took the trophy for being the most successful all round exhibitor. Apart from the many exhibits there was much interests in such competitions as guess the weight of a sheep, sheaf tossing and pacing out 100 yards. The winner of this event was just half-an inch out.

A QUICK glance at The Messenger's advertisement columns revealed staff at Spencer's pop works in Bromsgrove thanked the directors for their outing to London and there was advance notice of the auction of Wychbold Hall and its 51 acres of land. Meanwhile Harris Coaches, in Catshill, was running an all inclusive travel and board weekend trip to the Blackpool lights for just £2/10/0 (£2.50).

THE need to keep open redundant canals as leisure amenities was a major issue on Bromsgrove Trades Council's agenda when it met at the Roebuck pub in High Street. Undeterred by constant power cuts, members continued their meeting illuminating the proceedings with matches and flashlights.