PUTTING something back into the town she has come to admire is the inspiration behind the work of Stourport's Pauline Annis.

The Stourport Civic Society chairman believes the town's Georgian past and the "wonderful" opportunities for its development make for a fascinating mixture.

She said: "Stourport has a great past and future and it is that fascinating aspect which enticed me into the society when I first moved to town.

"However, since Wedley wrote his books about the town back in the 1920s there has not been much recorded permanently by way of books."

She added: "So that's why I'm relishing my part in researching the town's famous Baldwin family as part of the series of booklets we are going to produce.

"It's also vital we have a big say in the major Stourport Severn Road development, but I personally would also press the case for a pedestrianised High Street and Bridge Street."

Mrs Annis is familiar with chairing groups, as she also holds the same position for Wyre Forest Amnesty International.

Her role within the civic society is varied, but she is largely involved in a co-ordinating public events and campaigns. She said: "The civic society takes up more of my time but amnesty is also very important to me.

"Both groups are alike in that they give me the opportunity to give ideas and help to other people.

"The main difference with amnesty though is that we help many people who are not in a position to help themselves, which is of extreme importance to me."

Mrs Annis, who was born and bred and went to school in Liverpool, moved to Wyre Forest 30 years ago and lived in Kidderminster before moving to Stourport a decade ago.

She has therefore seen various cultures and styles of living, but said the Stourport way of life is truly unique.

"People are so friendly and it is so easy to get to know them.

"In my role with the civic society I have come across so many people who care passionately about the town and it's important to do your best to represent their views."

The historian also works full-time as an adult education tutor at Kidderminster College, which again gives her tremendous satisfaction.

She said: "It is excellent to be involved in helping to teach adults and helping some of them to get into university.

"I am a firm believer in providing second education chances for these people, who have perhaps seen the importance of education at a later stage than others."

Mrs Annis' hobbies include gardening, although she does admit this is "slightly forced" on her because of the size of the garden at her home she shares with fellow civic society member and husband, Richard, at The Ridgeway.

The pair also enjoy the arts, and Mrs Annis is a regular visitor to the Birmingham Royal Ballet and can occasionally be seen in the audience at Kidderminster's Rose Theatre.