CIVIC SOCIETY - AT the June meeting, Liz Durnell gave a presentation on Stourport Forward - the way ahead.

She explained that the Stourport Forward Partnership, a Market Towns Initiative Programme, funded by Advantage West Midlands, was formed in 2003 and planned a three-year programme from April 2005 to March 2008.

In its first year, among other activities, the British Waterways Project has seen work on improvements to Engine Basin, and to the footpath at the front of the Angel pub, as well as an archaeological dig in the Tontine gardens and adjacent to the Barge Lock.

There has been a continuation of riverside improvements and other improvements in the town include the Manor Farm Ball Court, Stourport Farmers Market and the Stourport Methodist Church Garden Restoration.

Next year's projects include a skateboard park, a learning opportunities project involving the Walshes Estate and Stourport Tourism and Youth Forum.

Tonight's meeting will be at the Social Day Centre, New Street, Stourport, at 7.30pm. The subject is the wind and watermills of the Stour and the speaker is Ron Moss. All are welcome.

LICKHILL WI - IN the absence of the president, vice-president Betty Rooney presided at the June meeting.

Before business she asked members to join her in wishing Alice Tait a happy 88th birthday. A report of the Cardiff AGM by delegate Margaret Cook of Areley Kings WI was read.

The plastic tops collection will benefit the Kidderminster Deaf Club and not Kemp Hospice.

Joyce Betteridge asked members to give her details of their interests and activities outside the WI and these will be included in the computerised records she is keeping.