Worcestershire | Archive | 2002 | February

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Stories for 1 February 2002

Leisure

And all that jazz

FRANTIC jazz, blues and skiffle mayhem is promised when Little Chuck Little play Chipping Campden's RBL on February 15.   more...

What's on

Theatre February   more...

Lunghi dares to accept challenge of monologue

When Cheri Lunghi performs as one of Picasso's Women at Malvern Theatres, it will be a new experience for her.   more...

Diana's laying the ghost of playing `bonking grannies'

When Diana Quick comes to Malvern Theatres next month to perform in Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts, she will be playing a role she has turned down many times in the past.   more...

WADS offer escape to land of Makebelieve

WITH the current spell of torrid weather, Woolhope Amateur Dramatic Society is offering a chance to escape to the magical land of Makebelieve in its pantomime this month.   more...

Caine heads cast of heavyweight talent

A DREAM cast of heavyweight British acting talent takes to the screen in Last Orders (15), at Malvern Cinema for seven days from today (Friday).   more...

Monster movie

THERE'S a special chance to be the first to see Monsters Inc (U), the latest animated adventure from the makers of Toy Story and A Bug's Life at the Forum, Malvern Theatres, this weekend.   more...

Cinemas

Malvern Cinema: Last Orders (15) 7.30pm Fri, Sat & Sun, 7pm Mon-Thurs, 3pm Sat & Sun. Monsters Inc (U) Preview Weekend Sat Feb 2nd & Sun Feb 3rd 2pm & 5pm in Forum Theatre Amelie (15) Wed Feb 6th Only 8.15pm in Forum Theatre.   more...

A sweet tribute to a jazz legend

AFTER spending a year playing next to jazz legend Stephane Grappelli, the thought of forming a tribute band to the great man fills John Etheridge with dread.   more...

York is more than one Woman

FILM star Susannah York will be performing her sell-out one-woman show, The Loves of Shakespeare's Women, in Worcester next week.   more...

On the right note

EVESHAM Methodist Church is presenting the third visit of the Kentwood Choir from Swindon at the Arts Centre Theatre, Evesham, on February 16, at 7.30pm.   more...

What's on at your local theatre

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Classical and easy listening - what's on near you

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Your guide to the best sounds around

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Exhibitions in and around Worcester

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Events in and around Worcester

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Bar mixes soul with reggae and blues

ANOTHER week of gigs at the Marrs Bar in Worcester gets under way tonight (Friday) with the penultimate concert by soul band Parkers Alibi.   more...

Paul Young cancels

Paul Young's concert at Malvern Theatres next month has been cancelled due to "unforeseen circumstances". The singer, famous for hits such as Where I Lay My Hat and Every Time You Go Away, was due to play the Forum Theatre on March 11.   more...

Songwriters celebrated in show

Singer Richard Swerrun returns to Malvern Theatres on Friday, February 8, to perform his tribute to some of the world's greatest songwriters.   more...

Performing with a Pop Idol

Young people in Malvern are being given the chance to perform on stage with one of the Pop Idol finalists in a professional show at Malvern Theatres.   more...

Keeping in union

THIRTY years after their successful album Grave New World, the Strawbs return in acoustic form at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall on February 6.   more...

Celtica know how to get a gig going

FESTIVAL dance band Celtica is coming to Malvern on Saturday, February 9.   more...

New name, new sound

LEDBURY band Bleeding Hearts is stepping into new musical shoes for its first acoustic performance at Ronnie Scott's in Birmingham.   more...

What's on at a cinema near you.

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The big band sound

JOSEPH actor Richard Swerrun returns without his Technicolor Dreamcoat to Malvern Theatres on February 8.   more...

Local history talks

WEDNESDAYS are the days to step back in time, thanks to a new series of local history talks on offer at The Everyman.   more...

It's such a heavy role for Gwyneth

GWYNETH Paltrow is a luminous beauty whose Oscar-winning talents and looks attract millions to the cinema.   more...

Festival is the showcase for folk music

THE eyes of the British folk music scene will be focused firmly on Cheltenham next month.   more...

Douglas Boyd (oboe) & The Vellinger Quartet n Review: Malvern Concert Club, Malvern Theatres

Douglas Boyd's oboe playing lifted the Vellinger Quartet - Stephanie Gonley (violin); Philippe Honore (violin); Tim Boulton (viola) and Sally Pendle-bury (cello) - to a higher echelon, when he joined them for Bliss's Oboe Quintet.   more...

Relative Values n Review, Malvern Theatres

MALVERN Theatre's showing of Noel Coward's 1950's comedy of manners, Relative Values, presents a light, fluffy and entirely edible soufflé of a play.   more...

There's something for everyone this season

THE SWAN Theatre Worcester is presenting an exciting spring season this year with something for theatregoers of all ages.   more...

Scott-ish widow's tale

THE WOMAN behind one of Britain's great heroes will be telling her story in the Other Place at the Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, from February 7 to 9.   more...

diana `revisited' by ghosts

BRIDESHEAD Revisited actress Diana Quick will be appearing in a production of Henrik Ibsen's Ghosts   more...

Laughs all the way with top comedy stars

SOME of the UK's top comedy performers are set to play at Cheltenham Town Hall from next week.   more...

A `princely' performance

THE Prince of Homburg is running at The Swan Theatre, in Stratford, until February 16.   more...

Still nurturing future Dylans

US singer-songwriter Carolyn Hester is not only a legendary figure in folk circles but she helped create a monster legend in giving the young Bob Dylan one of his first breaks.   more...

Supporting `city of culture' bid

THE Three Choirs Festival in Worcester and the Malvern Theatres are being employed to support a bid to have Birmingham named as European City of Culture.   more...

Exciting new way to raise the roof

After the success of the Raising the Roof dance workshops a year ago, young dancers in Malvern will have another chance to try an exciting variety of styles.   more...

Bridge was the scene of a skirmish

The fields flanking the River Teme at Powick are known as Powick Hams, or sometimes Powick Commons.   more...

News

Bitter pill to swallow

REGARDING last weeks letter alleging cruelty to New Forest and moorland ponies. If there is deliberate cruelty to these animals then let the acts be known and prosecutions commence. There are sufficient laws in this country to deal with cases of animal cruelty.   more...

Society invited to forum

RURAL Affairs Minister, Alun Michael, has invited the British Horse Society to join the Rural Affairs Forum for England.   more...

Room for Cinema 2?

THE trouble with the Regal is largely due to the fact that it is in the wrong position. If Ernie Highland had been in charge of the Clifton it would still be there and prospering.   more...

I'm overwhelmed...

MY warmest thanks to everyone who have sent best wishes and congratulations on my award of the MBE, either by letters, cards, telegram, phone calls, visits to my house, seeing people in the street, flowers, gifts, donations to the Cobalt Unit. I am overwhelmed, it was a great surprise, since New Years Eve I've been on cloud nine.   more...

Thanks from the Billy Davis Band

MAY I through the columns of your newspaper, take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended out charity concert at Evesham Arts Centre on December 1 and 2.   more...

We're not too chippy with Cotswold error

Please note a small correction in the January 24th edition of the Cotswold Journal.   more...

More room for some sensible discussions

It's good to see some discussion on Europe being aired in your columns. This is a vital matter which affects us all. Unfortunately, such discussions can often lose touch with reality.   more...

Wake up and start asking the questions

What a pleasure to read Mr. Parr's letter regarding the regionalisation of our country. How true that so few people know anything about it.   more...

Secrecy around site plans is `disturbing'

The news that Government plans to site an Asylum Centre for 750 people at Pershore Airfield has devastated the two tiny hamlets of Throckmorton and Tilesford. Residents are barely recovering from the trauma of the airfield being used for the regional burial site in last year's foot & mouth emergency.   more...

Driving city's Ford dealership forward

A NEW car showroom and dealership is to be built in Blackpole, Worcester, following a 15-year search for a site.   more...

Management team for affordable housing

A MAJOR provider of affordable housing in the region has appointed a new management team to meet the needs of its clients.   more...

Wyevale growing charity support

A HEREFORD garden centre chain raised more than £12,000 last year for charity.   more...

Get-together for manufacturing

A CONFERENCE bringing together all the strands of the West Midlands manufacturing base is being organised by the region's development agency.   more...

Water's given the waste treatment

A KIDDERMINSTER company is growing in line with the demands on industry for a cleaner environment.   more...

Flying cars - they're a vision of the future

If you're standing on a delayed train and reading the latest about Britain's transport crisis, travelling to work in a flying car sounds like a fantasy.   more...

John on stand-by to fly off to any major disaster

IN his normal daily life, Jonathan Wharrad is a project manger for a telecommunications company, but at the same time he is on stand-by to go anywhere in the world in response to a call for help from a major disaster area.   more...

Echoes from the Past

100 years ago   more...

It's snow fun looking back

WE have had scarcely any snow so far this winter, to the disappointment of children of all ages.   more...

Scientists fly in for reunion

LEADING electronic engineers, scientists, technicians and researchers are to fly in from all corners of the globe for a reunion in Malvern.   more...

Community in backlash

COMMUNITY leaders living in and around Throckmorton are demanding the presence of a top Home Office official to justify another major threat to their environment.   more...

Celebration of all that's Brummy

BLACK Country humour is arriving in the Cotswolds next week to help boost funds for Broadway's Lifford hall.   more...

Leading award for well-run waste site

BOSSES of a Bromsgrove household waste site are set to be recognised this week for their responsible approach to environmental issues.   more...

Park-ride: Just where do the Tories stand?

I WAS delighted to read that the Tories at city and county level have done a U-turn over provision of park-and-ride for Worcester (Ex-mayor calls for second bus scheme, Evening News, January 18).   more...

The days of whine and poses

I AM prompted to write this by the persistent, whining protestations of what one might collectively refer to as Human Rights groups in respect of the conditions in which al Qaida terrorist prisoners are being held by our allies the United States.   more...

Making a mockery of the school rules

I'VE recently returned from a holiday in the sun like many other Brits I'm more than happy to leave the winter for a couple of weeks.   more...

What about people who drive and use mobile phones?

AS a sensible and law-abiding road user, it was indeed reassuring to read the recent letter from Sgt Roberts from the Traffic and Operations Department of the West Mercia Constabulary.   more...

Arrogant Mankind

OH! The supreme arrogance of some human beings.   more...

Disgusting allegation about the foxhounds

A MONSCHAU'S contemptible accusations (You Say, January 28) are deceitful to the extreme.   more...

A fine effort

I WOULD like to thank all the people who supported my whist drives during 2001 in aid of Isley research into Diabetics, based at the Diabetic Centre, Newtown Road. The amount raised during the year was £872.   more...

Exemplary

I HAVE recently spent a few days in Ward 8 of Ronkswood Hospital.   more...

Yes, Bilford Road is in a worse state...

I AGREE with Des Bradley that Bilford Road is now in a worse state than before the recent resurfacing.   more...

US a nation that mirrors the UK

MR Spiteri writes of the tide of American culture that is engulfing our nation. In doing so he misses the obvious.   more...

Not a word attacking terrorism

BEARING in mind the goings-on in Tipton, the alleged British shoe bomber, arrests in Leicester and Luton along with an investigation into several fundamentalist fundraisers in Stockton, could we have assurances from the local Muslim community that such people are not active in Worcester?   more...

Why should anyone want this?

MR D E Margrett (You Say, January 28) has a point when he says that "devolution was granted to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland because the people of those parts of the UK are clearly separate ethnic groups".   more...

Warning over loss of food production

LARGE areas of the Cotswolds could go out of food production if farming does not return to profitability, a leading landowner has warned.   more...

Wyre Piddle

MEMBERS ended 2001 with their Christmas party which was a lively and happy evening.   more...

New code may stop meetings

BROADWAY could have no parish council later this year if members' fears over a new Government Code of Conduct prove to be founded.   more...

New life for Elizabethan merchant's house

IT was about time the old building had a stroke of luck, so it was a good day for 17 High Street when Andrew Brooker-Carey took a stroll through the centre of Droitwich.   more...

More power for Worcester

AT this time exactly a century ago, construction work was under way on a new riverside electricity generating station for Worcester.   more...

Birched for theft of a cake

THE Journal of this week in 1902 reported: Joseph Ranford (12) of Carden Street and Joseph Lucy (10) The Pinch, Hylton Road, were charged with stealing a currant loaf valued at 10d, the property of Robert Stevens Wheatley, a baker of 25 Lowesmoor. Witnesses said they saw the boys rush into the shop and snatch the cake.   more...

News Items Down The Years

1802   more...

City mourns death of George VI

THE black-bordered pages of Berrow's Journal were naturally dominated by news of the death of King George VI at this time exactly 50 years ago.   more...

From the archives

100 years ago   more...

Birdwatchers to relaunch guide

A GROUP of Malvern birdwatchers are appealing for people to submit their observations of birds in the area for inclusion a new book.   more...

I'll shoot attack dogs, says farmer

A Farmer has warned that he has the right to shoot any dog caught worrying his sheep after three attacks on local flocks.   more...

LIFT users shape up to a healthier lifestyle

Ledbury people coping with illness are exercising their way back to health with the help of a revolutionary fitness scheme that is one of just a handful of its type in the UK.   more...

Vets plan to move surgery

MALVERN veterinary practice Chamings and Carman has applied for planning permission to move to new premises on Newtown Road.   more...

Showground boss quits

THE chief executive of Malvern's Three Counties Agricultural Society has left to "recharge his batteries".   more...

Opinion

IT was slightly surprising that only three people should have attended this week's public meeting arranged by the Vision 21 partnership to debate the future of the Malvern Hills district.   more...

Rosemary reaches landmark

THE National Blood Service has congratulated and thanked a Malvern-born woman after she reached the rare landmark of donating 100 pints of blood.   more...

New £1m school on the way

A SCHEME to build a new £1 million village school in Cradley has moved a step closer with the submission of a planning application to Herefordshire Council.   more...

Proposal to cut free parking condemned

plans to drastically cut free parking in Ledbury by introducing charges at Lawnside Road have drawn condemnation from motorists and traders alike.   more...

QinetiQ finds healthy use for its defence technology

IMPROVING patient care and tackling a major source of legal action against the NHS are two by-products of an initiative which proves defence can be good for your health.   more...

Radio ham in contact with hurricane victim

A man whose farm business in Belize has been wiped out by a hurricane is getting messages of support from thousands of miles away in Malvern.   more...

Keith saddles up for charity ride

A RETIRED Malvern carpenter is getting on his bike and going Dutch in an effort to raise funds for a mental health charity.   more...

Ginola shirt is star lot in NSPCC raffle

ASTON Villa chairman "Deadly" Doug Ellis may have a reputation for hiring and firing managers, but he's not short of fans at a Malvern Link bookmakers.   more...

77% back changes to waste collection, says council

MORE details have been released of a survey conducted on behalf of Malvern Hills District Council which indicated overwhelming support for its controversial new rubbish collection scheme.   more...

Destruction will damage people's lives

I WRITE to express my incredulity over the recent ploughing of Hayslan Field by its owners, Malvern Girl's College.   more...

`Farms face ruin if subsidies cut'

SCEPTICAL, fearful and fed up is the response from local farmers to a new Government report on radical changes for an industry in crisis.   more...

An ugly eyesore

MY husband and I were quite horrified when the field at the bottom of our garden was ploughed up into an ugly eyesore.   more...

Housing association may put in new plan

THE housing association involved in a failed bid to develop flats on the Treasurer's Site in Malvern has indicated another attempt may be made.   more...

Anglers offered a new way to license

THE Environment Agency is making it easier than ever for anglers to buy a rod licence with the launch of a pilot scheme to trial direct debit sales.   more...

Moral concerns

I was shocked and dismayed when I saw the horrific act of vandalism that had been carried out in Hayslan Field.   more...

Are there really only three people interested in the town's future?

A CAMPAIGN to encourage Malvern Hills residents to help plan the future of their district was dealt a blow when just three people turned up for a public meeting.   more...

Tarmac gang demand £1,000 for drive work

POLICE are warning Vale people to be wary of callers selling at the door after workmen demanded more than £1,000 from an Elmley Castle man.   more...

James' ten unforgettable days

Last November I spent ten unforgettable days walking 80 km of the Great Wall of China.   more...

Hills are top for tourists

THE Malvern Hills have emerged from the shadow of foot and mouth to be named the most popular free attraction in the West Midlands.   more...

Trophy haul makes it a happy anniversary

MEMBERS of the Evesham Sea Cadets, who are celebrating the club's tenth anniversary, have swept the trophy board for their achievements in 2001.   more...

Moral high ground

SOME of us in Upton can't help having fellow feeling with the people of Tuvalu Island, now preparing to evacuate their community for the safety of New Zealand following pessimistic forecasts as to the effects of climate warming and rising water levels.   more...

Narrow vote saves village fire station

THE immediate future of Bidford's fire station has been assured after county councillors voted to abandon a hydraulic platform rather than shut down the village's facility.   more...

A ludicrous idea

FEELING despair on reading the report re: Stretton Grandison (Ledbury Reporter, Friday, January 18) providing a safe haven for 11 Balkan women trying to escape a life of enforced prostitution, I feel I must put pen to paper.   more...

United by woodland

A VALE woodland will be the venue for the launch of a major new conservation partnership tomorrow.   more...

Dream solution

AT the town council meeting at which Ledbury's traffic problems were discussed, the mayor kindly allowed me to speak. I stated that we were most fortunate to be living in a delightful medieval market town, which was full of lovely listed buildings. Without substantial change, which none of us would want, the town is completely incompatible with 21st Century levels of motorised traffic.   more...

Gipsies left fuming by `Hitler' policies

GIPSIES on an unauthorised site in Cleeve Prior, near Evesham, say they are victims of racial discrimination.   more...

Retrograde step

I WAS appalled to read in your newspaper that the rubbish collection by Malvern Hills District Council could switch from back door to front door.   more...

Jenny carries on fight for disabled

JENNY Perkins, who paved the way for Shopmobility in Evesham, has now launched a further campaign for disabled people.   more...

Hidden problem

I TOTALLY agree with Mr J R Lamb (Your Letters, January 11) on his remarks concerning the dangers on that particular section of the Upton-Welland Road.   more...

Vandals set off fire extinguishers

PERSHORE'S vicar has called for parishioners to be vigilant after vandals set off fire extinguishers in St Andrew's Parish Centre.   more...

Market raiders wreak havoc

POLICE are continuing their inquiries after raiders went on the rampage at Evesham market.   more...

Winter warmer

Thank goodness for LADS! Thanks to all the cast of Rapunzel for a great evening's entertainment for all ages. I laughed till I cried and my seven-year-old companion hooted with laughter to see Messrs Epps and Graham in their version of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Also absolutely hilarious were Rapunzel's hippy Mum and Dad.   more...

One answer to vandalism

I had the honour to be invited to watch the competition and afterwards present medals at the Malvern Hills Gymnastic Club.   more...

Revamped loo plan

IT'S all chain-ge for the toilet block in the Old Brewery car park in Evesham.   more...

No competition

Regarding the letter from Adrian Ward (Your Letters, January 25), I would like to ask just one question. Would Mr Ward's sales continue to improve if Waitrose started selling kitchen furniture?   more...

Primafruit jobs worry

THE number of jobs to be axed at a produce packing plant in Evesham, following the loss of business worth £26m, is expected to be known in two weeks.   more...

Credit to clubs

I AM writing on behalf of the Ledbury Hospital Equipment Appeal to thank the young members of the local Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Swifts who worked so hard to raise money for the appeal filling shopping bags for customers at Tesco, Ledbury.   more...

Village trader hits out at forgery jibe

CLAIMS that questionnaires on traffic management plans for Wyre Piddle were being forged have been refuted by the owner of Wyre Piddle filling station and stores.   more...

Victorian values

RE: `Is car still king' (Your Letters,   more...

Pounding the town centre beat

AN EVESHAM policeman is being continually accosted on the streets - but in the friendliest of ways.   more...

Lost all reason

Malvern Hills District Council appears to have lost all reason and   more...

Nigel booked for pub life

A FORMER top division football official has hit the bar by taking over the lease on a Vale pub.   more...

Fair reward

AS a parent of children living in Ledbury, the annual October Fair has not meant a great deal to myself, except expense for fairground rides and with two children this can soon mount!   more...

Charity handed £500 raffle boost

A DOLL'S house raffle raised £500 for the Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust Charity in Evesham.   more...

Vision paying off

WITH reference to the article `Youth policy paying off' (Malvern Gazette Sport, January 11).   more...

Quiz to benefit Scouts

A QUIZ is being held tonight (Friday) at Upton's Sports Pavilion by 1st Upton Scouts Parents' Committee. It starts at 7pm, with entry £5 per team. Teams may consist of up to four adults, with no limit on the number of children. A bar, nibbles and a raffle will also be on offer.   more...

Devoted couple die within days of each other

A DEVOTED Evesham couple have died within three days of each other.   more...

We can deliver

ALL members of Malvern Town Council would have liked to see a lower Council Tax. However, when you set a budget (even your own domestic one) you have to work on known factors and put aside the uncertainty. That is why for 2002/03 a prudent yet tight budget has been set.   more...

Dance aid for surgery

A DANCE in aid of Upton doctor's surgery is being staged by the Tuesday Club at the Memorial Hall, at 8pm, on Saturday, February 22. Music will be provided by Karisma. Tickets are £5, including food, from Ken's Cycle Shop on Old Street. Guests are asked to bring their own drink.   more...

Ex-rock star PJ Proby in court appearance

FORMER pop star P J Proby did an autograph session in Evesham last Thursday - after appearing in the town court.   more...

Behaviour baffles

Since the Hills were re-opened after the foot and mouth outbreak it would appear some dog owners seem to be more conscientious about 'poop-a-scooping', as evidenced by the number of bags left behind on the hills!   more...

Scientist guest speaker

DR Doug Bertram, of QinetiQ and formerly the University of Birmingham, will be giving a science talk in Hanley Castle next week. Dr Bertram will be a guest of the South Worcestershire centre of the Institute of Physics at Hanley Castle High School sixth form centre on Tuesday (February 5), at 7.30pm. His talk is called "X-ray astronomy or the fate of the universe and my part in its downfall".   more...

Model daughter's Royal party caper

EVESHAM-born Sally Huxley caused a Royal flush when she stole the limelight from Prince Andrew at a Chinese New Year party.   more...

Waste firm aims to move

A NEW location is being sought for the household waste disposal site in Upton by owners Severn Waste Systems (SWS).   more...

Planned unit for autistic children

A NEW respite unit for autistic children could be built at the Vale of Evesham School if county council plans are successful.   more...

Leave hills alone

I COULDN'T quite believe what I was reading in Your Letters, January 18 (the suggestion of a summer toboggan run on the Malvern Hills).   more...

£300 raised in memory of Carl

drinkers at an Upton pub have poured a gallon of money into charity in memory of one of its regulars.   more...

The thin end of the wedge

I HAVE lived in Malvern for over 30 years and I am a regular walker on the Hills.   more...

Cabin hope for farm

A HOLIDAY cabin could be built at Hollybeds Farm, in Earls Croome, if the owners get their way.   more...

Clumsy or just plain arrogant

Having attended last week's meeting of Malvern Hills District Council, I fear the ruling group is losing touch with both common sense and reality.   more...

Jubilee event plans still alive

CELEBRATIONS for the Queen's Golden Jubilee could take place in Upton after all.   more...

Make a meal of it for free

FREE lunches are being provided at Upton's Church Rooms every Friday between February 15 and March 22. They will be available from 12.30 to 1.30pm, at no charge, but donations are welcome. Any money given will be shared between Christian Aid and Corymeela, more information about which will be available on the days.   more...

Now its five . . !

UPTON is to host five separate festivals this year, as a new music and dance event takes its place alongside the jazz, blues, folk and water festivals already scheduled for the summer.   more...

Success may force firm to quit area

A SUCCESSFUL company based in Ryall may be forced to leave the area because its managing director cannot get planning permission to build the premises he wants.   more...

Top attractions at Equine Fair

THE new Malvern Spring Equine Fair is set to become another major success.   more...

Shedding light on climate conference

CLIMATE change, its prevention and impact, will be the issues under consideration at a major conference next month - organised by the Country Land and Business Association.   more...

Foot and mouth funding

SMALL rural businesses in Warwickshire affected by the foot and mouth outbreak are being urged to grab a share of new Government funding.   more...

Farm award

Whatcote farmers Tim and Chris Price were close runners-up in the 2001 Warwickshire Farm Conservation Awards.   more...

All the ingredients for a great British breakfast

ALL the ingredients for a proper traditional British breakfast were featured at Evesham Farmers' Market last Friday.   more...

Time's running out in bed crisis

FEW gatherings in the county will be more important, today, than the one that Peter Luff will chair with health professionals and social services officers into the crisis of so-called bed-blocking.   more...

United we can make it!

I AM a Blackburn Rovers season ticket holder who lives in Stoke-on-Trent and works in Wolverhampton!   more...

Harvington

COMMITTEE: The talk given by Tim Bridges last Saturday evening in the village hall was greatly appreciated by the sizeable audience present for the occasion.   more...

Hunting

Hunt - meet at Grange Farm, Grandborough at 11.45am.   more...

Wick

items were among those discussed at the Parish Council meeting on 15 January.   more...

Pershore

Conservation of Plants and Gardens) Worcestershire Group: The AGM went smoothly with all the officers being re-elected and a full committee instated for new year.   more...

Ilmington

coincided happily with the president's birthday and she hi-jacked it for a party.   more...

Fladbury

PARISH COUNCIL: Notes from the meeting held on January 14.   more...

Bidford-on-Avon

BIDFORD NEWS: The well respected Bidford Police Officer Peter Batacanin has announced his retirement in October this year having been in the village for 20 years. It will be a sad loss for the citizens although he will still be residing in the village.   more...

Bretforton

five residents attended. Enquiries were made about funding for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations. Complaints were received about the speed of traffic on the B4035 and visibility on junction outside the Memorial Hall.   more...

North and Middle Littleton

PARISH COUNCIL: Play area - the fencing adjacent to the animal sanctuary has been repaired. Enquiries are still being made regarding replacement equipment. A safety inspection is to be carried out.   more...

Evesham

PHOTOGRAPHY: On Monday, the Vale of Evesham Camera Club will welcome Dave Yates to give a photographic lecture entitled `99% Mono' at The Friends Meeting House, Cowl Street, Evesham, 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. New members always welcome.   more...

Eckington

NINETEEN members braved the miserable weather for this meeting and new president Joan Green, welcomed everyone.   more...

Slaford

THIS month members were treated to a talk about Oliver Cromwell. Mr John Hunt, an enthusiast on the subject, spoke mainly about his family. A most interesting talk was enjoyed by all.   more...

Peopleton

TWENTY-FIVE members and visitors enjoyed the Christmas party in December with an excellent supper, line dancing and carol singing.   more...

Honeybourne

THE meeting was replaced by the Christmas celebration meal at the Wheatsheaf Inn, Badsey where members enjoyed a varied menu in a very convivial atmosphere. They could also relax in the knowledge that the evening's transport had been provided by the very efficient Hedgehog bus, courtesy of WI funds.   more...

STAUNTON Correspondent: Mrs U Groves-Smith Tel: 01452 840273

JENNIFER and John Clayton led the Staunton & District Rambling Club on its January walk. Conditions were not ideal, with a rather damp start and heavy skies, which greeted the 14 ramblers as they left Dunsmore Green for Chaceley Church along the muddy footpaths. From the church, a left turn was made along the road towards the stile leading across the field to New House Farm, where the ramblers headed for Forthampton over fields where the footpaths were clearly marked before passing Lower Farm and up another muddy track before the walk ended where it began at Dunsmore Green. The rain had held off throughout the walk, which was enjoyed by everyone.   more...

POWICK Correspondent: Mrs M Allsopp Tel: 01905 830746

JANUARY 2002 heralded a new event for the children organised by Powick Playing field Association. It was a Harry Potter Fancy Dress Disco held at Powick Parish Hall on a Saturday afternoon. 55 children - plus the adults running the event - dressed up as little Harry Potters, witches and wizards. Among the children's fancy dress winners were Jamie Bentley, Sally Green and Edward Mann.   more...

PENDOCK Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

THIS Saturday, February 2, beginning at 2pm, there will be a jumble sale at Berrow/Pendock Village Hall in aid of Pendock Playgroup and Pandas. If you have any jumble, bric-a-brac or white elephant goods please can you bring it to the village hall on the morning of the sale. Thank you.   more...

MALVERN WELLS Correspondent: Mr Tom O'Malley Tel: 01684 575682

Malvern Wells Player have just released details of its next production -- Terry Pratchett's Wyrd Sisters, which has been adapted for the stage by Stephen Briggs.   more...

LONGDON Correspondent: Mrs Eileen Moss Tel: 01684 833256

LAST Sunday, January 27, Bridge Builders, the benefice Sunday School, performed its Epiphany play at the family service at St Mary's Church. About 40 parents and children attended. The children had painted two scenic backcloths, depicting the countryside around Nazareth and the stable at Bethlehem. They made two dimensional life-size models of the key characters in the nativity story which they painted and held up in front of them as the story proceeded. The songs and music, put together by Joanna Moss and assisted by Rhiannon D'Arcy, were in contemporary style and employed 'up beat' rhythms which appealed to the children. This not-so-traditional presentation was well received.   more...

ELDERSFIELD Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

THIS Sunday, February 3, at Eldersfield Church at 10am you are warmly invited to our 'Christingle' celebration. Please come and help us in reaching out to vulnerable children and young people who need support.   more...

CRADLEY Correspondent: Mrs J Prescott Tel: 01886 880594

PARISH Communion at St James the Great, Cradley followed the Book of Common Prayer and was fairly well attended despite the inclement weather. The Rev Preb Sam Ashton took the service and the Rev Mike Vockins preached the sermon. This was based on "moving on" especially as far as the spiritual side of our life is concerned. The important step "of following on" is well worth considering if nothing new seems to be happening in our lives.   more...

COLWALL Correspondent: Mrs P Hockett Tel: 01684 564872

THE Colwall Bird Survey Group will be holding a meeting at the village hall on Thursday, February 7, at 7.30pm.   more...

CALLOW END Correspondent: Mrs M Allsopp Tel: 01905 830746

A LARGE number of parishioners visited Stanbrook Abbey, Callow End, last Thursday as part of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. They were able to talk with the nuns and partake of refreshments and finally join in Compline (Evening Prayers). Dame Joanna Jamieson, the Abbess, welcomed everyone and expressed her prayer for peace, echoing the Pope's desire at Assisi. In reply Rev David Nichol thanked the Abbess for her hospitality.   more...

BUSHLEY Correspondent: Ms M Wilkes Tel: 01684 293435

THE annual general meeting of Bushley Cricket Club will be held at the pavilion at 7.30pm on Wednesday, February 13.   more...

BOSBURY Correspondent: Mrs R Krinks Tel: 01531 640076

THIS Sunday, at Holy Trinity, Bosbury, at 11am, there will be a short, simple service which will hopefully attract younger members of the congregation to come and join regular worshippers. If you are a member of our popular Children's Church held on the third Sunday of each month, a warm welcome awaits you and your family. Next Sunday, February 10, 9.30am, Parish Communion.   more...

BIRTSMORTON Correspondent: Mrs R Bolton Tel: 01684 833287

ON Thursday, March 21, commencing at 7.30pm Birtsmorton PCC will be presenting a fashion show (with wine and cheese) at the Motor House at Birtsmorton Court (by kind permission of Mr & Mrs N Dawes).   more...

Graffiti-busting paint in bid to beat vandals

GRAFFITI-busting paint which sucks pens dry has been put on a chemist wall to beat vandalism.   more...

Facelift for public loos

PUBLIC toilets in Evesham are being given a facelift, courtesy of Wychavon District Council.   more...

MP in bed fears talks

BED-blocking will be discussed at a meeting chaired by Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff today.   more...

Active work in mental health

The Edward Parry Centre in Kidderminster is a day centre run by social services for people with severe and enduring mental health problems.   more...

Portrait of a town in crisis

CONCERNS over spiralling house prices around Malvern and a lack of community spirit have been echoed by residents in the area.   more...

Praise for swan aid teenager

THE Worcester teenager who brought city traffic to a standstill to save a stranded swan has been praised by a county group which studies the bird.   more...

Father helps cut son's term

A FATHER'S evidence to a judge at Worcester Crown Court has help cut 12 months off his son's jail sentence for robbery.   more...

MP's fears over terror measures

WORCESTERSHIRE may not be prepared to tackle a terrorist attack, Leominster MP Bill Wiggin has warned.   more...

Lottery hope in scheme for arts

PERSHORE'S arts and community centre, Number 8, is to submit a bid for Lottery funding for its £1.25m redevelopment.   more...

Girlfriend grabbed by throat

A MAN grabbed his girlfriend around the throat until she lost consciousness following a row that started over a text message.   more...

Welcome for the Year of the Horse

THE flavour of the Orient is shortly to arrive in the Faithful City as its Chinese community gets ready to welcome the Year of the Horse.   more...

More power in the fight against floods

THREE Worcester firefighters have become powerboat instructors, teaching other members of the brigade.   more...

High winds look set to hit the city

WORCESTER families are being warned to batten down the hatches this weekend as winds could reach up to 75mph.   more...

Trained soldier is preparing for study

A WORCESTERSHIRE teenager is set to take up a place at university to study for a degree.   more...

School cash sum labelled an insult

THE director of education has branded a Government handout to Worcestershire's cash-strapped schools an insult.   more...

Beauty students spring into action

STUDENTS at a Malvern college are getting to grips with a new hairdressing course.   more...

Club's future is no clearer

THE future for Worcester City Football Club's move to a 21st Century stadium is no clearer following last night's city council meeting.   more...

Award for plucky PC

A COURAGEOUS police officer from Worcester who saved an elderly woman from drowning has been given a commendation.   more...

Hungry pregnant woman stole food

A PREGNANT woman expecting twins stole sandwiches from Marks and Spencer because she was hungry, Droitwich magistrates heard.   more...

Fresh clue in hunt for robber

FRESH information on a daylight robbery in Worcester has led police to appeal for information on a man with a distinctive mole on his forehead.   more...

Couples agree in lane trespass row

A COUPLE who began an action for alleged trespass against neighbours to stop them walking past their house have reached an agreement after three days of legal wrangling at Worcester County Court.   more...

Drunken frenzy of hammer-wielding woman

A DRUNKEN, partially-clothed woman armed with a hammer, went into a frenzy after visiting her boyfriend - only to find out he was dead.   more...

Hunt for missing city pupil

POLICE have launched a search for a teenage Worcester boy who went missing after leaving home for school.   more...

Sport

1/2/02 - Weekend county football fixtures

THIS weekend's football fixtures across Worcestershire and Herefordshire include:   more...

First trophy for West Malvern

WEST Malvern Cricket Club won its first ever trophy when it were recently presented with the Worcester Evening League's Fair Play award.   more...

1/2/02 - Molby waiting on injuries for

KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Jan Molby is hoping a number of his players will have overcome niggling injuries in time for tomorrow's Nationwide League Division Three clash against his former club Swansea City at Vetch Field (3pm).   more...

Trainers double up in boost for small yards

TWO of the lesser known names in local horse racing training circles visited the winners' enclosure last week, writes Mervyn Collins.   more...

Tom and Holly are splash hits in the pool!

DEADLY duo Tom Arrowsmith and Holly Burton almost swept the board at Evesham Swimming Club's annual championships.   more...

Bees chief tables ground bid

STUDLEY chairman Dave Robinson has tabled a bid to buy the Beehive from troubled firm BKL.   more...

1/2/02 - Defender joins Reds ranks

ROD Brown has added another defender to his ranks with the capture of former Bromsgrove Rovers skipper Quentin Townsend.   more...

1/2/02 - Rumours of Bilston folding

THE rumour mill is claiming Dr Martens Western Division crisis club Bilston have folded.   more...

Season starts

UPTON Motorsports got their season off to an early start by staging an open practice meeting at their Bromsberrow track.   more...

College girls in England junior trials

PUPILS from Malvern Girls' College represented the Midlands in the Junior Territorial Lacrosse tournament at Princess Helena College, Hertfordshire last weekend.   more...

FEAR set sights on Bailiffs

LEE Tandy's FEAR cruised to a 7-2 victory over the luckless Bar Studs in the Malvern & District Pool League and closed in on the Bailiffs who sneaked another 5-4 away triumph at the Baldies Battlers.   more...

Chance taken to edge out Eastnor

MALVERN Hills Indoor Bowls Club had the good fortune to play their league game against a slightly sub standard Victoria on Saturday and hungrily lapped up 11 of the 14 points to just edge out Eastnor from the table's top spot.   more...

Irish date for Shaun

SINCE the split in the world of pool it has had two champions with both sets of players playing completely different rules - World Rules and BAPTO.   more...

Firemen move

MEMBERS and ex-members of the Glos and Herfs & Worcs fire services who are entering the English Fire Service singles have a changed venue to Erewash Indoor Bowls Club, Long Eaton, Derbyshire.   more...

Battle is on for second place

THE position tightens at the top of the Third Division of the Malvern Table Tennis League.   more...

D team hit back for win

MANOR PARK Men's D obtained their first victory of the Winter tennis season when they entertained Clifton on Teme last Sunday evening emerging victorious by three rubbers to one.   more...

Newent Seconds made to hang on

NEWENT SECOND XI 2, PAINSWICK 1   more...

Ledbury swimmers hang on for win

LEDBURY & District ASC travelled to Pontypool for a tough second round of the Bluebell League on Saturday.   more...

Minou is club student of the year

WELLAND School of Tae-Kwon-Do, which his part of Action International Martial Arts Association, headed by Grandmaster Hee Il Cho 9th Dan, were proud to announce Minou Gorman Rickard as `Club Student of the Year 2001'.   more...

Magpies fly home in style

LEDBURY MAGPIES 52,   more...

Hereford racecard hit by the weather

WATERLOGGED tracks forced the abandonment of today's National Hunt meetings at Hereford and Kelso.   more...

Dave defies odds to beat off rivals

SWAN AC members battled with gale force winds and heavy rain during their latest endeavour, but Tewkesbury member Dave Bennett wasn't complaining when he took home the winners purse after turning in a very creditable performance.   more...

Milne to start against the Welsh

WORCESTER Rugby Club's utility back Nicola Milne will start for Ireland against Wales in the first Six Nations Championship game this weekend.   more...

Victory is only target for Gary

BROMSGROVE Rovers will expect nothing less than three points when they travel to next-to-bottom Cradley Town in the Midland Alliance tomorrow (3pm).   more...

No plain sailing at Salisbury -- Tuohy

No plain sailing at Salisbury -- Tuohy   more...

Molby waiting on injuries for

KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Jan Molby is hoping a number of his players will have overcome niggling injuries in time for tomorrow's Nationwide League Division Three clash against his former club Swansea City at Vetch Field (3pm).   more...

Testing Trophy task for United

HEREFORD United player-coach Phil Robinson has warned his side not to take Hampton and Richmond Borough lightly as they chase a place in the last 16 of the FA Umbro Trophy.   more...

City sign on Shail for rest of season

CENTRAL defender Mark Shail has agreed to join Worcester City for the rest of the season.   more...

Brewery close on leaders

THE Brewery enjoyed their highest win of the season, against Interthornes, in the Malvern Football League on Sunday, moving into sixth position.   more...

Returning to action ...

SIMILAR to all local Saturday fixtures, Malvern Rangers' scheduled away semi-final WFA Junior Cup fixture at Malvern Town Reserves was postponed on Saturday morning with Langland Stadium being waterlogged.   more...

Junior soccer scene ...

WELLAND JUNIORS 3,   more...

1/2/02 - Victory is only target for Gary

BROMSGROVE Rovers will expect nothing less than three points when they travel to next-to-bottom Cradley Town in the Midland Alliance tomorrow (3pm).   more...

Compton's good win after Rich's pickings!

RICH Goodwin was the hat-trick hero as Long Compton secured a place in the semi-finals of the Alun Rees Trophy.   more...

Alveston make hay as rain ruins!

FOOTBALL took a real battering as the heavy rain ruined almost the whole of last Saturday's local programme.   more...

1/2/02 - City sign on Shail for rest of season

CENTRAL defender Mark Shail has agreed to join Worcester City for the rest of the season.   more...

1/2/02 - No plain sailing at Salisbury -- Tuohy

No plain sailing at Salisbury -- Tuohy   more...

Woodrush is off

WOODRUSH rugby club's planned clash at home to Berkswell and Balsall tomorrow has been postponed because of a damp pitch.   more...

1/2/02 - Bickerton battles back to beat cut

WORCESTERSHIRE'S John Bickerton battled back brilliantly to beat the cut after the second round of the Heineken Golff Classic in Melbourne today.   more...

1/2/02 - Milne to start against the Welsh

WORCESTER Rugby Club's utility back Nicola Milne will start for Ireland against Wales in the first Six Nations Championship game this weekend.   more...

England U19s spot

LEIGH Sinton student Richard Ralph has been selected to play for the England Under 19s against Scotland today (Friday) as part of the six nations championship.   more...

Power in the pack

MALVERN travel to Midlands One league leaders Broad Street in Coventry tomorrow (Saturday) aware that they have to try and curtail the home side's major strength.   more...

Run ends for Upton

UPTON 8pts,   more...

Mud rules

REDDITCH II 8pts,   more...

Seagulls clip Hawks for double

MALVERN SEAGULLS 19pts, DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD HAWKS 14pts   more...

Junior rugby scene ...

DROITWICH U13s 14pts,   more...

Runners to form club

KEEN runners and athletes are being invited to Ledbury Rugby Club on Wednesday (February 6) with the intention of forming a club.   more...

Ledbury race to crucial victory

LEDBURY 29pts,   more...

Tackling became poor

LEDBURY U10'S 5pts, BROMYARD U10'S 15pts   more...

Town looking to return to action

LEDBURY Town are looking to return to action tomorrow (Saturday) when they entertain next to bottom side Walsall Wood (2.45) at New Street in the Express & Star Premier Division.   more...

Jojo joy as win lifts Evesham

Evesham Ladies 1, Pickwick Old Sils 0   more...

  
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