AFTER a prolonged absence, this week's rain was much welcomed by farmers and smallholders in the Bromsgrove and Droitwich areas. It had come at a critical time to save the strawberry crop and boost the growth of grass in fields set aside for hay. Pleasure seekers too were delighted. They reckoned any rain now would mean the forthcoming Whitsuntide holidays would be fine.

RESIDENTS of all ages were to be well catered for over the holidays. As usual, the main attraction on Whit Monday would be the fete in the grounds and gardens of Hewell Grange, in Tardebigge. There the chief attractions would be sports, skipping and pig sticking and ham cutting competitions The entrance fee was 6d (2.5p). A fete and gala was planned for the Forest Hotel at Lickey End at which Northfield Town Band was to play.

SIDNEY Turner from Hanbury Terrace, Droitwich, was fined 12/- (60p), the best part of a week's wages, by Spa magistrates for using foul language in Queen Street. The arresting officer initially believed him to be drunk, but Turner later began to use offensive language against the police. However, his employer Mr Moverley of Hanbury Wharf, claimed he was partly responsible for allowing Turner to draw his own supplies of cider from his barrels.

MONTHLY figures from Bromsgrove Cottage Hospital showed during May there had been 19 patients admitted and 24 discharged, nine remained. Among the gifts in kind received had been old linen and newspapers from Blackwell Court, two dressing gowns, cakes, eggs and rhubarb.