Worcestershire | Archive | 2005 | April

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Stories for 6 April 2005

Leisure

Duel (PG) Special edition

MILD-mannered travelling salesman David Mann (Dennis Weaver) finds himself and his car the innocent targets of a gigantic Petetbilt 351 truck and its maniacal driver.   more...

A Cinderella Story (PG)

ALL-American sweetheart Hilary Duff stretches her acting ability to the max in the title role of this saccharine, up-to-date version of the classic fairy tale.   more...

Ocean Colour Scene A Hyperactive Workout For The Flying Squad

APPARENTLY, this is Ocean Colour Scene's best album since Moseley Shoals.   more...

New Order Waiting for the Siren's call

WHILE time has marched on since New Order's heyday back in the 1980s, it seems the band's distinctive sound has not.   more...

The Sugarland Express (PG)

Steven Spielberg's first theatrical feature, based on a true story, follows the adventures of a Texan outlaw couple striving to keep their family together against all odds.   more...

Gordon Giltrap and The Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra Symphony Hall

Gordon Giltrap admits he has problems distinguishing a crotchet from a hatchet. But place a guitar in the hands of this adopted Brummie and he becomes a musical maestro.   more...

Fame calls

PREPARE yourselves for loads of lycra clad wannabes as all-sing-all-dancing musical Fame comes to the Birmingham Hippodrome between April 18 and 23.   more...

Star names head for hills

A HOST of star names - Peter Bowles, Sian Phillips, Leslie Grantham, Jean Boht, Shirley Anne Field, Susie Amy, Gaby Roslin, Clare Teal and Julian Lloyd Webber- will be coming to the Malvern Theatres this summer.   more...

Marital musings

A COMEDY portraying a mid-life marital crisis is set to keep audiences laughing.   more...

Coming in from the cold

A MAGICAL Shakespeare play will be performed at a Malvern theatre next week.   more...

Plays galore

THEATRE lovers are in for a treat when an annual festival starts.   more...

Musical date

THE stage is set for the first musical production at Bromsgrove's new theatre.   more...

Dancers set the stage on fire!

"A MAGICAL and entertaining" double bill of dance, created especially for children aged six-10 and their families can be enjoyed at DanceXchange at The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome, next week.   more...

A man's world at Malvern...

By Lynda Morrison   more...

Where to go

Wednesday April 6   more...

Sad Stanley finds himself in another mess

Review - The Birthday Party at the Festival Theatre, Malvern, until Saturday.   more...

Hit and miss - like America's version of history

Review: Churchill: The Hollywood Years (15)   more...

Chart toppers set to play

MUSIC lovers are in for a treat this summer with some of the most accomplished British bands of the last two decades playing at Gloucestershire's Westonbirt Arboretum.   more...

Seasons in one evening

THE English Symphony Orchestra welcome to the Malvern Theatres on Friday one of the world's most eminent baroque violinists - Monica Huggett.   more...

Call goes out for singers

CASTING its net far and wide for a special celebration of Mozart next month is Ludlow's enterprising choral society.   more...

Chart stars hit Brum

THERE'S the chance to see chart topping pop stars in the musical Love Shack.   more...

Tribute show

TWO top tribute acts will be asking townsfolk to `Let us entertain you' when they play Bromsgrove.   more...

Time to rock

A POPULAR Bromsgrove rock act is set to wow crowds with their mix of original music and cover tunes.   more...

On the organ

A NEW series of organ recitals arranged by Hill Organ Promotion Society kicks off tomorrow at Kidderminster Town Hall. Town Hall organist Timothy Morris, who is also chairman of the society, will play from 1.10pm to 2pm and admission is £4.   more...

News

Anger at graffiti sprayed on shop

A GANG of "scumbags" has turned an empty shop in St John's, Worcester, into an eyesore by spraying graffiti all over it, according to one resident who lives nearby.   more...

We're fighting homes plan

NEIGHBOURS in Pershore are fighting a planning application for homes on their doorstep for the third time.   more...

Priory organ is set to pipe up once more

THE rebuilt organ in Great Malvern Priory will be heard in all all splendour this month when the church's organist and choirmaster gives a recital on it.   more...

The Mormons who swapped the Malvern Hills for Utah

The barren territory of the American West may be a far cry from the gentle green slopes of the Malvern Hills, but the founding of a major religious organisation connects the two places.   more...

Residents in call for clampdown on anti-social behaviour

CCTV and a residents' association could be introduced to part of Droitwich town centre following a number of complaints about vandalism.   more...

You can help out in canal clean-up

VOLUNTEERS are needed to help in a major clean-up of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.   more...

Search for more areas to protect from the floods

THE organisation in charge of keeping Worcester safe from flooding said it would continue to look at areas where properties can be kept dry.   more...

Vicious vandals stoned my car

A PARISH council chairman is outraged after vandals smashed his car windscreen with stones - just minutes after councillors discussed plans for a £50,000 playground to be built for youngsters in the area.   more...

Traveller families bed down on county sites

TRAVELLERS have descen-ded on sites around the county.   more...

Dr Moore was "quite shy and humble"

By Dan Kendrick   more...

REFEREES FLEE FURIOUS FANS

TWO referees were chased off a basketball court by fans after passions boiled over at a game.   more...

A packed programme promised

PLANS are progressing well for the Community Arts Festival Event (CAFE) in Redditch, which culminates on June 11.   more...

Quarry fears

PARISH councillors are concerned over proposals for a massive gravel quarry near Bidford.   more...

Dance troupe steps in

ONE of the groups performing at this year's CAFE will be One Step Beyond, an Appalachian dance troop based in the heart of Redditch.   more...

Salad days at Coughton

CHILDREN at Coughton Primary School have been learning about healthy eating with the help of local chef Felice Tocchini.   more...

Cool acts for pool festival

THE cream of Redditch talent will perform on stage at Batchley's annual Cool by the Pool event this summer.   more...

London Marathon round-up

AN Oakenshaw man is looking to give Paula Radcliffe a run for her money when he takes part in the London Marathon.   more...

Town pays tribute to Pope

MEMBERS of Alcester's Roman Catholic community have been mourning the death of Pope John Paul II in services and private prayers over the past few days.   more...

Crossroads chaos

ASTWOOD Bank residents claim improvement work to a busy crossroads in their village is causing traffic chaos.   more...

School's design delights

CLARICE Cliff would have been proud of the ceramic creations produced by pupils at Great Alne Primary School during a recent art event.   more...

Hospice betting on fundraisers

PEOPLE can enjoy a day at the races or take part in a new creative activity to help raise vital funds for the Primrose Hospice and Cancer Help Centre.   more...

Talks still on track say bosses

CAR giant MG Rover tried to reassure its workers that talks to save its future were still on track as it stressed its commitment to achieving a partnership with the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation.   more...

Head departs

  more...

Carers Act welcomed

A REDDITCH organisation has welcomed new rights for carers introduced by a new law.   more...

Firms expect to face Rover fallout

DOZENS of Worcestershire employees face being made redundant if MG Rover goes into insolvency.   more...

Beans and bells!

ALCESTER'S in bloom committee is hosting a coffee morning at the home of chairman Maggie Payne on Saturday.   more...

Market theme

CHARITIES and groups will be exploiting their French connections at Alcester's street market this summer.   more...

New funding crisis looms

THE future of the Greig Centre in Alcester hangs in the balance again after Stratford district councillors voted to give less than 10 per cent of the revenue funding requested by management and trustees.   more...

Battle on bulldozers

BIDFORD residents were preparing for another fight with developers today in their bid to save a Victorian schoolhouse from the bulldozer.   more...

* Referees flee furious fans * 'Natural leader' loses his battle with cancer * Traveller families be

  more...

Fax link hope for children

COUGHTON Parish Councillor Maureen McTavish has just returned from a holiday in Sri Lanka where she witnessed the devastation caused by the Boxing Day tsunami and is now determined to do something to help the country.   more...

Town's young have `waited long enough'

WORK on Alcester's new Guide and Scout headquarters looks set to start in the summer - despite being turned down for a lottery grant.   more...

James' close shave

JAMES Miller, 16, gets cropped for cash by Katherine Copperthwaite, 13, during Alcester Grammar School's rag week.   more...

100 years ago

April 8, 1905   more...

50 years ago

April 8, 1955   more...

25 years ago

April 8, 1980   more...

The Redditch Society

THE first half of the March meeting was the AGM.   more...

Redditch Philatelic Society

AT the March meeting, John Gledhill gave a talk and display on Overprints on British Stamps.   more...

Redditch Garden Society

AT the meeting on March 21, there was a talk by Ken Whitaker on the dos and don'ts of gardening.   more...

Ladies' Probus Club of Alcester

THE visitors' lunch on March 9 was followed by entertainment from Christine Sheen on keyboard.   more...

Merry Wives of Alcester

THE AGM was held on March 22 at the Methodist Church.   more...

Feckenham Forest History Society

At the March meeting, there was a talk on the emergence of the Black Country by Trevor Genge.   more...

Cymdeithas Gymraeg (Redditch Welsh Society)

AT the March meeting, Mrs Pat Radford welcomed everyone and paid tribute to Mrs Gwen Jones, who had died.   more...

Cookhill WI

THE March meeting was members' night, when Hilary Armitage and Margaret Jones acted as president and secretary respectively.   more...

Cookhill Keyboard Club

AT the concert on March 18, Penny Weedon delighted a packed house with her superb programme and performance and with her sense of humour - largely at her own expense.   more...

Ron's digging in to help

A GREEN-fingered Wythall man has shown he is the cream of the crop by tending to the care home garden where he is a day patient.   more...

Battle cry on plan to extend

THE manager of an Alvechurch residential home says he will fight "tooth and nail" to extend it, even if the building becomes listed.   more...

Choir prepares to spring into action

IT takes more than a few weeks' rehearsal and a desire to sing in front of an audience to put on a concert which will enchant hundreds of music lovers - as Arrow Vale Singers have proved for many years.   more...

Surprise celebration

SIXTY years ago, wedding bells were ringing for one Church Hill couple.   more...

Alvechurch WI

THE March meeting started on a sad note with a minute's silence for Mrs Florence Catley, who had been the oldest and longest-serving member.   more...

`As much in love as they ever were'

CHILDHOOD sweethearts Gerald and Violet Paggett have shown their significant difference in height was not a stretch for love after celebrating 60 years of wedded bliss.   more...

Signs bid to slow drivers

NEW flashing warning signs are to be installed on a dangerous road in Wythall in a bid to cut accidents.   more...

Having a ball with masks!

YOUNGSTERS just couldn't mask their enthusiasm when they took part in some Easter holiday workshops at Arrow Valley Countryside Centre last week.   more...

Light and shade of a Royal tour

A MUCH-admired Redditch-born painter has returned from Sri Lanka, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji where he was the official tour artist for Prince Charles.   more...

Response saves threatened club

A HUGE response from members of the public has saved a threatened Smallwood special needs group from going under.   more...

Call up your war memories

IT is 60 years since the Second World War finally came to an end after six years of blood, sweat and tears.   more...

`They just kept on coming out!'

THE arrival of five newborn lambs was a real shepherd's delight for one astonished Redditch farmer.   more...

Spending cuts are a fantasy

THE Conservatives base their election spending promises on public spending cuts resourced by axing 250,000 Government bureaucrats who they say are not needed.   more...

Abbey project a white whale

THE leader of Redditch Council is proposing to give the private developer of the Abbey Stadium between £5-£10 million to build a bypass for the residents of Bromsgrove district.   more...

Runaway attacker given prison term

A MAN who went on the run for more than three years after a violent incident in a Redditch pub has been jailed for 12 months.   more...

Labour's rule has been no miracle

ROBIN King's recent letter telling us Labour's achievement over the last few years are a "modern-day miracle'' would have made a clinically depressed cat burst out laughing.   more...

Martin's masterstroke

THE assistant manager of a Redditch shop has written the only book in existence which will help people create beautiful artistic impressions of their favourite photographs using a computer programme.   more...

Sickened by the carnage

I AM sickened at the poor excuses given by Redditch Council regarding the reasons for tree removal.   more...

Play area plan sparks antisocial fears

RESIDENTS' dreams for a new play area in Crabbs Cross could be scuppered tonight because of fears it would attract more antisocial behaviour.   more...

A need for bridle paths

REGARDING the letter about horse riders in Morton Stanley Park (Advertiser, March 23).   more...

A taste of top grub!

A VARIETY of delicious dishes were on the menu at an open day at Redditch Youth House.   more...

Identity theory on woods body

A BODY found in woodland near Redditch last week is believed to be that of a missing Bromsgrove man who died from a gunshot wound.   more...

Backing for pitches plan

REDDITCH United Football Club's controversial plan to extend its training facilities onto a neighbouring field has been cautiously welcomed by a borough councillor.   more...

Unwelcome visitor

A CAR crashed into a house in Honeychurch Close, Smallwood, in the early hours of Friday.   more...

Strategy to slash crime

AN ambitious plan to cut crime in Redditch by 17.5 per cent in three years has been announced by the Community Safety Partnership amid political squabbling over whether crime has fallen or not.   more...

Shock as yobs shoot birds at lake

CRUEL yobs have been shooting birds on Redditch's Arrow Valley Lake with an air rifle and then taking their bodies away in black bags.   more...

Prayers for the Pope

REDDITCH people have joined communities across the globe in paying tribute to "Poland's greatest son", Pope John Paul II, who died on Saturday aged 84.   more...

Bunds are not works of art

MAY I refer to the letter from Mr Saunt of Jays Close? (Advertiser, March 23)   more...

TSUNAMI VILLAGE SAYS THANKS

A MASSIVE £60,000 has been raised by a group of divers for Sri Lankan villagers who saved their lives when the Asian tsunami struck on Boxing Day.   more...

Residents fear for their safety

RESIDENTS are being terrorised out of their homes by vandals in a Spa street.   more...

Push for cycle volunteers

VOLUNTEERS are needed to help youngsters get on their bikes and make sure they ride safely.   more...

Cash boost for canal scheme

CANAL lovers received a boost this week when the Spa restoration project was awarded a massive £250,000 windfall from the National Lottery.   more...

Worries over jobs at store

A TOWN councillor has raised his concerns that the new Waitrose supermarket may not employ Droitwich Spa people in the available job positions.   more...

Free passes are a 'con'

DROITWICH MP Peter Luff has labelled the Government's free bus pass scheme for pensioners and the disabled as 'a con trick'.   more...

Use old school for community

A CONCERNED councillor has called for a soon-to-be empty village school to be used for community use.   more...

Church inspires a mosaic marvel

CREATIVE children at a Spa school have been linking up with a parish church.   more...

UKIP to stand in the Beacon

VOTERS in one Bromsgrove area, who are disillusioned at the prospect of more EU controls on Britain, will have the chance to show their feelings in next month's county council elections.   more...

MP hits back over leaflet

SPA MP Peter Luff has slammed the distribution of an anonymous leaflet in the town that he says seriously misrepresents his views.   more...

Shops feel the pinch

SMALL businesses in Bromsgrove could feel the pinch after two dramatic rate rises.   more...

Taking a walk on the wild side

NATURE-lovers will be taking a walk on the wild side during a series of free events,   more...

Police name dead man

A man found dead in woodland near Bromsgrove has been named.   more...

Residents demand a parish poll over lido

A PARISH poll will be called on the future of the Droitwich Spa Lido thanks to the overwhelming response of town people last week.   more...

Prayers for the pope

WORSHIPPERS at churches of all denominations in Bromsgrove joined in prayer on Sunday to celebrate the life and mourn the death of Pope John Paul II.   more...

Tributes flood in for Jane

A PACKED Tardebigge church heard friends and family pay their last respects to a well-known Bromsgrove woman who was described as an inspiration to all.   more...

Glimpse of our yesteryears through a lens

A SPECTACULAR collection of more than 2,000 Victorian photographs taken by a Bromsgrove photographer at the turn of the nineteenth century will go on display in the town.   more...

Rover hoping it won't be the end of the road

A SPECIAL working group is being set up to help find employment and retrain Bromsgrove workers who may lose their jobs at Longbridge-based MG Rover.   more...

Tree-mendous

GREEN-fingered townsfolk can check out a trio of rare Japanese giant bonsai trees at Webbs of Wychbold garden centre.   more...

Success on a plate

A COMMEMORATIVE plate will be up for grabs in this year's Bromsgrove carnival.   more...

A window in their diaries

A GROUP of stained glass enthusiasts from Cambridgeshire visited Bromsgrove yesterday (Tuesday) to see some local church windows.   more...

Under the hammer

Parents and teachers at a Bromsgrove school have organised a fun way to raise money, writes Lizzie Bryce.   more...

Raiders target tea rooms

A POPULAR town centre tea room was forced to close after thieves broke in and left fridge doors open.   more...

Funky Friday Feel

FUN-loving girls are being invited to an action-packed activity day this Friday.   more...

Stoke Prior WI

President Betty Wolsey welcomed members to the meeting. Thanks were expressed to Betty Gibbs for ensuring that the hall was adequately heated for the meeting. The recent long cold spell has prevented some of the older members attending. Margaret Chance had enjoyed her recent visit to Denman College for a course on lace making so much that she has booked a place on a similar course for next year. Lynn Nash, a beauty therapist, was introduced to give a talk on skin care, reflexology, aromatherapy and other therapies. The talk was followed by a general discussion. The importance of skin cleansers and moisturisers in the daily routine was stressed, together with the need to drink two litres of water to maintain hydration and overall health. Mobility can be improved by attending a health and fitness centre where power assisted exercise machines and toning chairs are available for those who don't or cannot exercise. Lynn was thanked for presenting such refreshing ideas and for promoting discussion between members.   more...

Bring on the clown

THE person responsible for partially closing Deansway during the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning rush hours should be placed in the stocks by St Andrew's spire.   more...

Bromsgrove WI

The March meeting was as usual our birthday meeting so members joined us from Dodford, Fairfield, and Sidemoor.   more...

No chance of following

MARY Dhonau (Letters, Wednesday, March 30) accuses Labour of following the Liberals in supporting free bus travel.   more...

Sidemoor WI

The president Maureen Smith welcomed members to the 49th birthday meeting of Sidemoor WI.   more...

War wasn't over for all

I CAN well understand the point N VJones is trying to make (Letters, Tuesday, March 29) concerning the date The Second World War ended.   more...

Canine Society

BROMSGROVE AND DISTRICT CANINE SOCIETY RINGCRAFT   more...

We're on a war footing

APPARENTLY, Roger M Barrett is incapable of understanding that we are, virtually, in a state of war against both internal crime and external terror (Letters, Monday March 28).   more...

Catshill WI

The president, Mary Davies, opened the meeting and warmly welcomed everyone.   more...

More than 800 foxes legally killed

THE letter from Marion Large (Worcester News, Monday, March 28) confirms the Hunting Act has not and never was intended to save one fox.   more...

Chaddesley Gardeners

Ian and Dawn Nex demonstrated to a well-attended meeting on how much gardeners can do to provide winter interest in their gardens. Ian's talk, entitled trees and shrubs for winter interest, was illustrated by a very interesting collection of slides, plus cuttings taken from flowering trees and shrubs in their own garden. Our next meeting will be in the form of a visit to Hurrans Gardens Centre in West Hagley next Wednesday, which will include a talk by Reg Moule on seasonal plants. Please note the earlier starting time of 7pm. Visitors are welcome.   more...

Mayor right to call for a return of city's carnival

WORCESTER Mayor Allah Ditta is right to suggest a revival of Worcester's carnival.   more...

True figures

OVER the weekend a letter was put through our letterbox listing the names of councillors who voted against the Lido.   more...

Reduce cost

FIRST we have Councillor Pam Davey saying she voted to destroy the Lido because she really wants an outside pool.   more...

It's happened

FURTHER to the recent letter from Margaret Warman regarding Wychavon District Council and their decision to end green waste collection from this month.   more...

Costly poll

SOME residents in Droitwich are calling for a Parish Poll about the Lido.   more...

Volunteering has helped

I WOULD like to thank all the children and young people who volunteered during the second month of the Year of the Volunteer 2005.   more...

Getting together

WE are currently organising a school reunion to celebrate 40 years since we left junior school. The school involved is Charlton Kings Junior School in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.   more...

Ignoring the public

THE standing room only meeting called by SALT (Save A Lido Today) to consider calling a Parish Poll last week was further evidence to Wychavon and the controlling Conservatives how strong the feelings are in the Spa and how so out of touch they are.   more...

Ocean waves

I WRITE in respect of HMS Protector, a former net layer first commissioned in 1938 and which saw wartime service in Norway and the Eastern Mediterranean in 1941 where she was damaged by an aerial torpedo.   more...

Litter is big problem

NEVER mind the Doorstep Green being developed along Primsland Way, next time you are passing take a look at the `Doorstep Dump' being created next door!   more...

Beginning to look Bard!

THE Pleasure Park,   more...

Safe swim lessons are a priority

I WRITE as a former secretary and swimming teacher of the Droitwich Dolphins in the days when the only pool we had in which to teach non-swimmers was the Lido.   more...

Cutting out extra waste

REGARDING the letter from Ian Spencer and the difficulties he has encountered with his wheelie bin.   more...

Credit for foresight

CREDIT should be given where it is due. By that I refer to the recent report about the saving of the ophthalmology services in Bromsgrove, following the worries in 2002 that all eye services were likely to be moved to Kidderminster.   more...

Taking the opportunity

THE recent article headed `newsletter in political pawn row' seems to be yet another example of the Liberal Democrats opportunistic election techniques, on this occasion sadly dragging the Scouting movement into the political circus ring.   more...

Far too busy

RESPONDING to the letter from Paul Byrne of Wythall - Geoff Denaro was appointed as leader by the Tories.   more...

Return it

I WAS horrified to read that we have been over charged by two per cent by the Conservative controlled Bromsgrove District Council.   more...

Building could fill new roles

IT was understood that Redgrove School in Stoke Works, now scheduled for closure, has an uncertain future.   more...

100 years ago April 8, 1905

SURGEON/DENTIST Arthur Ward, from Birmingham, took out an advert in the Messenger to inform patients he now held surgeries every Tuesday night until 9pm at a house called Branksome, in Bromsgrove's Marlborough Avenue. All types of operations were carried out including extractions using gas, ether or cocaine for a fee of 2/6 (12.5p). Scaling and fillings cost the same.   more...

50 years ago April 9, 1955

IN spite of recent unseasonable weather several species of birds, who spend the summer in Britain, had already arrived. These included garganey ducks, lesser black backed gulls at Westwood Park, in Droitwich, and meadow pipits at Frankley.   more...

25 years ago April 3, 1980

A FIRE destroyed the Jehovah's Witnesses' Kingdom Hall, in York Road, Sidemoor, during the early hours of Sunday causing £40,000 worth of damage. Some nearby residents were evacuated as firemen from Bromsgrove and Redditch fought to control the blaze. Police were seeking witnesses.   more...

Hill-top haul to re-enact pioneering tale of struggle

A pioneering tale of struggle will be re-enacted in Malvern.   more...

Showman given a real send-off

HUNDREDS of mourners in Malvern paid tribute to a showman who lived and loved the fairground life.   more...

Seven out of 10 want new hospital at Seaford Court

Seven out of 10 people want to see the new Malvern Hospital built at Seaford Court, according to the results of a recent public consultation.   more...

What a way to spend Easter

WHILE Malvern residents relaxed over the Easter weekend, one local man experienced riots, gunfire and looting.   more...

Concern at homes plan

PROPOSALS which could have seen the old Megabowl site in Greenlands demolished and redeveloped have been recommended for refusal by planning officers.   more...

Eatery scheme for post office

BATCHLEY Post Office, which sold its final stamp earlier this year, could be turned into an eatery.   more...

Reunion call to former pupils

FORMER pupils of Redditch County High School are invited to meet up with old classmates at a reunion this summer.   more...

Golf clubs taken in shed raid

A SET of golf clubs worth £1,500 was stolen during a raid on a shed in Redditch over the Easter holidays.   more...

Appeal over air rifle theft

POLICE are appealing for information after the theft of an air rifle from a car in Woodrow.   more...

Clubs stolen

POLICE are appealing for information after a distinctive set of tailor-made golf clubs were stolen.   more...

A chance to put something back

COMMUNITY-minded villagers in Studley who have a bit of free time on their hands can apply to join the parish council after vacancies arose.   more...

Much more than an armful!

A MAN who has been giving blood for almost 35 years is to be honoured at a ceremony.   more...

Parking charge on hold

THE introduction of car parking charges for staff at the Alexandra Hospital has been put on hold while workers try to negotiate more reasonable rates.   more...

No place for louts in sport

THERE can be little doubt that sport has a pervasive influence on society.   more...

Gunman in store raid

A GUN-toting thief stole a large quantity of cash from Aldi supermarket in Trescott Road, Redditch.   more...

Witness appeal on bag snatch

A MAN was hit and wrestled to the ground in Hopwood before his attacker made off with his bag.   more...

Sex pest warning

A TEN-year-old girl was indecently assaulted in Headless Cross as she walked home from school.   more...

Store raid

THIEVES who forced their way into Budgens supermarket in Bidford on Thursday made off with a large number of cigarettes.   more...

Age is no barrier to keep fit group

AGE is no bar to keeping fit for people who take part in Extend exercise classes.   more...

Party surprise for golden duo

A COUPLE from Fernhill Heath, near Worcester, have told of their delight after a surprise party was thrown for them in celebration of their golden wedding anniversary.   more...

Driverless tractor is halted by police car

POLICE officers had to use their own car to stop a run-away tractor after the driver jumped off.   more...

Epilepsy sufferer fell into the Severn

AN epilepsy sufferer suffered a fit as he walked along the River Severn, fell in and drowned, an inquest heard.   more...

Changes to council

WARNDON Parish Council has voted in favour of recommendations aimed at streamlining the way in which its meetings are conducted.   more...

Cheers for our spears

A FARMER who bet he could produce the first crop of British asparagus this year is being given a run for his money by Worcestershire growers.   more...

Lady sings the blues

THE sound of blues singer Connie Lush can be heard at Worcester's Marr's Bar this week.   more...

Wanted - couch potatoes for walks

PEOPLE who spend too much time in their armchairs are being invited to improve their fitness and well-being on a "Health Walk" in Tenbury Wells.   more...

The Bootleg Doors will light your fire

A TRIBUTE band to the psychedelic rock music of Jim Morrison and The Doors is to perform at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall.   more...

Electric street cleaning

WORCESTER cleansing teams are going electric in the latest blitz on street litter, with the introduction of two new mini-vans.   more...

Sport

Members in mist

A MISTY start to Sunday's club run saw members head to Avoncroft near Broms-grove.   more...

New boats take to the water

THE Arden club at Defford belatedly staged its annual Easter Egg event last Sunday when a substantial turnout consisted of four different classes of dinghy for the three-race event.   more...

Alison lands crib prize

Evesham and   more...

Pickford picks up the cup

THERE was action all day at Evesham's Common Road club last Sunday when members competed for the Chel-may Cup.   more...

Six-race meeting

THERE'S a six-race National Hunt card at Stratford Race-course on Sunday, April 17.   more...

Smyly sights success

KIM Smyly saddled three winners when the Cotswold staged their meeting at Andoversford and, while it is too much to expect the Stanton trainer to repeat that feat, the stable is likely to enjoy further success on Sunday afternoon.   more...

It's not too late!

DUE to a last minute rush to enter, the organisers of the Blackthorn British Skittles Cham-pionships have agreed to put the closing date for entries back to next Tuesday, April 12.   more...

Matt's magic in track start

THERE was debut delight at Donington Park for Vale racer Matt Nicoll-Jones last Sunday.   more...

A hat-trick for Hartwell after triumphs at table

LAST Saturday's Evesham and District Association's Finals Night at Bengeworth Church House saw Matt Hartwell regain the Bob Bryant School of Motoring Men's Singles with a 7-11, 11-7, 11-7, 9-11, 11-8 win over Doug Payne.   more...

Big screen is a bonus

THE good news is that the Land Rover sponsored Gatcombe Novice and Intermediate Event which takes place this weekend features a full entry of riders on both days.   more...

02/04/05 - Bailey plans big changes

Stratford 33 Droitwich Spa 0   more...

Kids set sail to success

BARNT Green sailing club put their promising juniors through their paces over the Bank Holiday weekend with a three day long training session.   more...

Blaze tighten grip on title

BASKETBALL: Bromsgrove Blaze A 118 Redditch Royals 49   more...

Bromsgrove feel the strain

BROMSGROVE Golf Club were double losers to Worcestershire rivals Gaudet Luce over the weekend.   more...

Bickerton's hopes hit by inconsistency

GOLFER John Bickerton experienced a topsy-turvy weekend at the Open de Portugal.   more...

Bank show fight as Hillcrest falter after good start

ASTWOOD Bank came from 4-1 down to beat Hillcrest 6-4 in the Bromsgrove and Redditch Table Tennis League Division One.   more...

Illingworth takes reins

FORMER England bowler Richard Illingworth has been given the difficult task of replacing Lyndon Jones as captain, as Barnt Green look to go one better in the Birmingham and District Premier Division this season.   more...

Stars getting stuck in

LEGENDARY Worcestershire batsman Graeme Hick showed off strokes of a different kind at Bromsgrove Cricket Club on Saturday.   more...

Bromsgrove Rovers fixtures and results 2004/2005

HOME, away   more...

Neal's need for speed

MATT Neal believes he can take advantage of the most open British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) in years to challenge for the title this season.   more...

Droitwich Spa RFC First XV fixtures 2004/2005

HOME, away   more...

New boats take to the water

THE Arden club at Defford belatedly staged its annual Easter Egg event last Sunday when a substantial turnout consisted of four different classes of dinghy for the three-race event.   more...

Tough hosts no match for promotion seekers

Ledbury 3pts, Pershore 32   more...

Six-race meeting

THERE'S a six-race National Hunt card at Stratford Race-course on Sunday, April 17.   more...

Smyly sights success

KIM Smyly saddled three winners when the Cotswold staged their meeting at Andoversford and, while it is too much to expect the Stanton trainer to repeat that feat, the stable is likely to enjoy further success on Sunday afternoon.   more...

It's not too late!

DUE to a last minute rush to enter, the organisers of the Blackthorn British Skittles Cham-pionships have agreed to put the closing date for entries back to next Tuesday, April 12.   more...

Matt's magic in track start

THERE was debut delight at Donington Park for Vale racer Matt Nicoll-Jones last Sunday.   more...

New Road duo help stalwarts prepare for summer season

LAST Saturday saw Worcestershire CCC's entire squad turn out in force to help local clubs with their renovations and refurbishments for the biggest cricketing initiative in England and Wales.   more...

Fixtures and tables

Fixture for tomorrow (Friday)   more...

Local teams in county quest

LITTLETON Reserves and Bretforton Sports Club Old Boys are in Worcestershire FA County Cup final action this weekend.   more...

Tough hosts no match for promotion seekers

Ledbury 3pts, Pershore 32   more...

Bullseye! Busy Rachael's going up in the world

CONSISTENCY on the oche has seen Rachael Dixon move four places up the darts world rankings, writes Mervyn Collins.   more...

New Road duo help stalwarts prepare for summer season

LAST Saturday saw Worcestershire CCC's entire squad turn out in force to help local clubs with their renovations and refurbishments for the biggest cricketing initiative in England and Wales.   more...

Late leveller hits promotion quest

Evesham Utd 1, Yate Tn 1   more...

6/4/05 - Hick hits ton but County slip to defeat in final over

WORCESTERSHIRE were beaten by Essex in yesterday's friendly during a dramatic final over at Chelmsford.   more...

Call up for Bank girls

  more...

Bennett bags final win at the Fishery

Evesham Jubilee Society   more...

6/4/05 - Award is honour for all at the club

IT was pleasing to win the manager of the month award for March -- though I would credit the honour to everybody involved at Worcester City.   more...

Rickards to the rescue

Redditch United 1   more...

02/04/05 - Sloppy Boars not out of danger

Broadstreet 21 Bromsgrove 20   more...

Buzzards fly high on their travels

BREDON Buzzards Under-9s returned home tired but triumphant from last weekend's mini tournament at Thornbury RUFC.   more...

Champs show mettle

Evesham 8, Solihull 55pts   more...

Ian's ace

AN ACE from Ian Tyrell helped his team to victory in Evesham's Mixed AM/AM last Sunday.   more...

Junior football round-up

Callowbrook Swifts U6s A 2 Balsall Common U6s A 0   more...

Rubery edge final

Advertiser/Messenger League   more...

Ravens get ready to roll

THE town's new rugby league outfit Redditch Ravens have just finished their first training session at Abbey Stadium as they prepare for the summer season.   more...

Super Sewell's double delight

Barnt Green Spartak 2 Pilkington XXX 0   more...

Relegation nears

Thimblemill 2 Fairfield Villa 0   more...

Promotion in sight

Droitwich Spa 3 Castle Vale 1   more...

New striker serves up debut blast

Brackey Town 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 3   more...

Teenage goalkeeper denies strikers

Sutton Coldfield Town 0 Bromsgrove Rovers 0   more...

Rovers enter crunch time

MANAGER Jimmy Mullen has not given up on Bromsgrove Rovers gaining automatic promotion from the Southern League Division One West - despite Monday's draw with Sutton.   more...

Alcester go out on a low

Spartans 29   more...

Bailey plans big changes

Stratford 33 Droitwich Spa 0   more...

Sloppy Boars not out of danger

Broadstreet 21 Bromsgrove 20   more...

Fixing up friendlies

EVESHAM Henricians are looking to fill their four remaining fixtures for the coming season.   more...

Youngsters are well catered for in village

EXHALL and Wixford will again be entering two sides - Under-16 and Under-13 - in this season's Cotswold Hills Junior League.   more...

Nets next week

AFTER a well attended winter programme of coaching indoors, youngsters from Evesham Cricket Club move outdoors next week in readiness for the start of the new season.   more...

Trophy torture

EVESHAM Under-15s narrowly lost out in Sunday's final of the Worcestershire Cricket Board's Tornado Trophy.   more...

Players brush up on skills

THE Cricket Force was with Ashton CC last Saturday when David Leatherdale and Daryl Mitchell got down to some serious work in readiness for next month's start of the new season.   more...

WBA test for Cross

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL: HEADLESS Cross Ladies will be returning to league action on Sunday when they take on high-flyers West Bromwich Albion at Abbey Stadium (KO 2pm).   more...

Harry just too Sharpe

JUNIOR FOOTBALL: Studley Juniors under 12A demolished Coppice United 8-1 on Easter Monday despite being a player short.   more...

Broadway clinch Division One place

BROADWAY United clinched promotion to Division One of the Birdseye Sports Evesham Sunday League with a hard-earned win over Defford/Besford United.   more...

Campbell and Smee get first

THREE races were staged at Arden Sailing Club's (Defford) annual Easter Egg event.   more...

Teenager misses out on jump-off

HANLEY Castle High School pupil Sophie Perry has missed a place in the jump-off at the 2005 Pony Club Dengie Winter League show jumping championships.   more...

Pershore draw with high-fliers

IMPROVING Pershore Town were held 1-1 at home by third-placed Coventry Sphinx last night.   more...

Jefferson pounces to clinch double

WESTFIELDS completed a Travel Factory Alliance double when they beat Racing Club Warwick 1-0 at allpay.park last night.   more...

Bulls up to third but more twists ahead

AS they streamed away from Edgar Street last night, fans of Hereford and Carlisle could have been forgiven for wishing the season had ended with the final whistle of their important Conference match.   more...

Hick hits ton but County slip to defeat in final over

WORCESTERSHIRE were beaten by Essex in yesterday's friendly during a dramatic final over at Chelmsford.   more...

Boddy's belief in City charge

DAVE Boddy believes Worcester City can scoop the maximum 15 points from their end-of-season run-in -- providing they triumph at Stafford Rangers and Altrincham.   more...

Nice finish for Ladies

HOCKEY: REDDITCH Ladies finished third in the Worcestershire League Division One after continuing their unbeaten form with a 4-0 demolition of neighbours Bromsgrove.   more...

Glory for Gareth in knockouts

KNOCKOUT action took centre stage in the Stratford and District Alliance last weekend when a quartet of clubs made progress in four separate competitions.   more...

Visitors puzzled after away loss

Polesworth 4, Littleton 2   more...

Finals at double

QUINTON'S 3-1 semi-final defeat of Southam last Satur-day sealed a second cup final appearance.   more...

Fixtures and tables

Fixture for tomorrow (Friday)   more...

Millward's men make it a promotion treble

BROADWAY United clinched promotion to Division One of the Birdseye Sports Evesham and District Sunday League for the first time with a hard- earned win over Defford and Besford.   more...

Junior round-up . . . Junior round-up . . . Junior round-up

Balsall Hornets 1,   more...

Ball and Hamilton set to return at Ashford

MANAGER Dave Busst is expected to reinstate Richard Ball and Stuart Hamilton into Evesham United's starting line-up for two crucial Division One West matches in the space of four days.   more...

Inaugural Open Day

THE STI Midland Junior Premier Football League hosts its first ever Open Day at Hinckley United's new ground, the Marston Stadium on Sunday, April 17.   more...

Local teams in county quest

LITTLETON Reserves and Bretforton Sports Club Old Boys are in Worcestershire FA County Cup final action this weekend.   more...

Robins given green light

COMMON Road has been given the green light to stage Southern League Premier Division matches next season.   more...

Breathing space is welcome for Bees

Studley 2   more...

Late leveller hits promotion quest

Evesham Utd 1, Yate Tn 1   more...

Bromsgrove RFC First XV fixtures 2004/2005

HOME, away   more...

Rickards to the rescue

Redditch United 1   more...

Ball and Hamilton set to return at Ashford

MANAGER Dave Busst is expected to reinstate Richard Ball and Stuart Hamilton into Evesham United's starting line-up for two crucial Division One West matches in the space of four days.   more...

Robins given green light

COMMON Road has been given the green light to stage Southern League Premier Division matches next season.   more...

Brothers step up at Open

REDDITCH'S Freestyle Kickboxing Association was back in action at the Gloucester Open on Sunday, March 27.   more...

Satlwarts leave in club shake-up

THERE have been more ins and outs at Redditch Arrows than the hokey-cokey this close season.   more...

Derby no go

THE expected crunch derby between Kings Norton and Redditch rugby clubs was called off.   more...

Presidents day attracts VIP

WOODRUSH Rugby Club's annual Presidents Day got under way on Saturday but former presidents weren't the only VIPs as Bromsgrove MP Julie Kirkbride dropped in.   more...

Sands of time slip by Arrows

TERRY Sands could never have imagined the sucess of Redditch Arrows from its humble beginnings. Now - 20 years on - the founder and life president is arranging a reunion bash to celebrate.   more...

HOME ADVANTAGE

REDDITCH United will play their Birmingham Senior Cup Final against Birmingham City at Valley Stadium on April 26.   more...

6/4/05 - Boddy's belief in City charge

DAVE Boddy believes Worcester City can scoop the maximum 15 points from their end-of-season run-in -- providing they triumph at Stafford Rangers and Altrincham.   more...

06/04/05 - Rovers enter crunch time

MANAGER Jimmy Mullen has not given up on Bromsgrove Rovers gaining automatic promotion from the Southern League Division One West - despite Monday's draw with Sutton.   more...

Grill the Rovers manager

BROMSGROVE Rovers' fans can question manager Jimmy Mullen about his 30-year career in football on Saturday (7.30pm start).   more...

02/04/05 - New striker serves up debut blast

Brackey Town 1 Bromsgrove Rovers 3   more...

04/04/05 - Teenage goalkeeper denies strikers

Sutton Coldfield Town 0 Bromsgrove Rovers 0   more...

First defeat crucial

BRETFORTON took part in the annual county first team tournament involving six teams at Dene Close School.   more...

  
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