kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-09--Butterfly in Wyre Forest makes Wildlife Trust calendar cover

AN amateur photographer 's `` lucky '' shot of a pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly in the Wyre Forest has made it on the front cover of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust 's annual calendar .
From harvest mice to hoverflies and waxwings to spider webs , 12 photographers from across Worcestershire are celebrating after being chosen as winners in the popular charity wildlife calendar .
This year 's overall winner is Richard Clifford , from Bromsgrove , whose photograph taken while out walking in the Wyre Forest has been printed on the calendar 's front cover .
Richard ’ s butterfly snap beat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a public vote run across the trust ’ s social media channels .
Richard said “ I am absolutely amazed and thrilled to be announced as the overall winner of this great competition .
“ The news of being a finalist was praise enough but being voted the overall winner has blown me away .
Thank you to anyone and everyone that voted for my picture .
“ I class myself as an over enthusiastic amateur photographer and , as other similar photographers will understand , my biggest critic is myself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this success is down to those other photographers .
“ I am lucky to have met so many people that I am now happy to call good friends , either in the field where we chat or on various social media platforms where we help and encourage each other wherever we can - some of these I may never meet but without all of them , I may not have achieved this and I ’ d like to thank them all - you know who you are .
“ This particular shot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was out walking with my wife Jill .
`` We literally stumbled over this pearl-bordered fritillary and luckily it stayed put for quite some time , enabling me to take my time composing the shot .
Some days you just get lucky , I guess .
“ Finally , thank you to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust for providing us with the chance to showcase our work .
Our wildlife is in safe hands with you.
” Wendy Carter , organiser of the competition , said : “ From gardens to nature reserves and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we have some wonderful wildlife and wild places .
“ We ’ ve also got some very talented photographers who make life difficult for our judges .
“ This year we had almost 300 images entered by 50 photographers and competition was fierce .
However , we ’ re so pleased to see that we ’ ve got a wonderful calendar full of fantastic images that will look great in people ’ s homes and the sales of which will help our conservation work right across the county.
” All winning images @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 2021 calendar , which also features 24 further runners-up photos as smaller inserts .
The calendar is available to buy from the trust ’ s online shop and costs £7 .
Visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop .
All proceeds directly benefit the trust ’ s work to protect Worcestershire ’ s wildlife and wild places .
Entries for the 2022 calendar will open later this year .

From harvest mice to hoverflies and waxwings to spider webs, 12 photographers from across Worcestershire are celebrating after being chosen as winners in the popular charity wildlife calendar.
This year's overall winner is Richard Clifford, from Bromsgrove, whose photograph taken while out walking in the Wyre Forest has been printed on the calendar's front cover.
Richard’s butterfly snap beat off strong competition from three other images in a public vote run across the trust’s social media channels.
Richard said “I am absolutely amazed and thrilled to be announced as the overall winner of this great competition.
“The news of being a finalist was praise enough but being voted the overall winner has blown me away. Thank you to anyone and everyone that voted for my picture.
“I class myself as an over enthusiastic amateur photographer and, as other similar photographers will understand, my biggest critic is myself. That’s why a big part of this success is down to those other photographers.
“I am lucky to have met so many people that I am now happy to call good friends, either in the field where we chat or on various social media platforms where we help and encourage each other wherever we can - some of these I may never meet but without all of them, I may not have achieved this and I’d like to thank them all - you know who you are.
“This particular shot was taken in the Wyre Forest where I was out walking with my wife Jill.
"We literally stumbled over this pearl-bordered fritillary and luckily it stayed put for quite some time, enabling me to take my time composing the shot. Some days you just get lucky, I guess.
“Finally, thank you to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust for providing us with the chance to showcase our work. Our wildlife is in safe hands with you.”
Wendy Carter, organiser of the competition, said: “From gardens to nature reserves and in both our urban and rural spaces, we have some wonderful wildlife and wild places.
“We’ve also got some very talented photographers who make life difficult for our judges.
“This year we had almost 300 images entered by 50 photographers and competition was fierce. However, we’re so pleased to see that we’ve got a wonderful calendar full of fantastic images that will look great in people’s homes and the sales of which will help our conservation work right across the county.”
All winning images feature as A4 pages in the trust’s 2021 calendar, which also features 24 further runners-up photos as smaller inserts.
The calendar is available to buy from the trust’s online shop and costs £7. Visit worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop. All proceeds directly benefit the trust’s work to protect Worcestershire’s wildlife and wild places.
Entries for the 2022 calendar will open later this year.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-09--CORONAVIRUS: No new deaths in Worcestershire hospitals for 8 days

THERE have been no recorded coronavirus deaths in the county 's hospitals for eight days .
The latest NHS England figures released today ( August 9 ) , show no new recorded deaths in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust .
This means the number of deaths in the trust 's hospitals remains at 278 .
There have also been no new deaths recorded in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust , so its figure remains at 28 .
These figures mean the total number of deaths in all settings in Worcestershire is now at least 528 .
The latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 5pm the previous day and do not necessarily include deaths to happen on that day .
Across England,10 people who tested positive for the coronavirus have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 29,411 .
Patients were aged between 45 and 89 years old .
All had known underlying health conditions .
Their families have been informed .
The Acute Hospitals Trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wyre Forest Ward .
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19 .
They do not include deaths outside hospital , such as those in care homes , prisons , ambulances or in the community .

The latest NHS England figures released today (August 9), show no new recorded deaths in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust.
This means the number of deaths in the trust's hospitals remains at 278.
There have also been no new deaths recorded in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, so its figure remains at 28.
These figures mean the total number of deaths in all settings in Worcestershire is now at least 528.
The latest NHS England figures relate to deaths recorded up to 5pm the previous day and do not necessarily include deaths to happen on that day.
Across England,10 people who tested positive for the coronavirus have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 29,411.
Patients were aged between 45 and 89 years old. All had known underlying health conditions.
Their families have been informed.
The Acute Hospitals Trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The Health and Care NHS Trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wyre Forest Ward.
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19. They do not include deaths outside hospital, such as those in care homes, prisons, ambulances or in the community.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Stourport pub Ye Olde Crown Inn goes up for sale

THE search is on for a buyer to take on a Stourport pub which is in need of `` heavy investment '' .
Ye Olde Crown Inn in Bridge Street has gone up for sale with a guide price of £450,000 plus VAT .
The former JD Wetherspoon pub was taken over by Hawthorn Leisure in 2016 and is now on the market through chartered surveyors James A Baker .
Bosses have reassured customers that the pub is not closing down , and will continue to trade until a new owner is found .
A post on the pub 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has started to circulate that Ye Olde Crown is up for sale , just to keep everyone informed - we won ’ t be closing our doors and will continue to trade ( drinks only ) until new owners are found and hopefully a long time thereafter .
`` Most people will agree that the pub needs heavy investment , inside and out after being a staple part of tourists days out for many years and a noticeable lack of care and attention .
`` That being said , the team are all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , often relentlessly for 70 hours a week in the summer holidays .
`` Most of these staff members have been here since Hawthorn Leisure took over in 2016 and many of the rest also worked just as hard under the previous owners JDW - it would be greatly appreciated if you could continue to support the Pub and its staff in these uncertain times .
`` Opening hours etc are all unchanged , prices are still fantastic and the welcome still warm ( most of the time ! )
'' The property @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an `` excellent opportunity for public house operators and restaurateurs to further develop both wet and dry sales '' , and says the pub is likely to be of interest to local , regional and national licensed trade operators and restaurateurs .
The ground floor comprises a large open plan bar which can accommodate 25 people , a dedicated sports area with a pool table , restaurant area for 40 diners and a further dining area for 50 people .
There is also a customer WC , a commercial kitchen , office and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beer store with cellar lift , a large undeveloped area which is currently being used for storage , and further stores .
On the second floor , there are three rooms which are not currently in use .
Private accommodation is situated on the first floor and comprises two double bedrooms , a kitchen , lounge and a bathroom .
The property also features an outdoor decking area which can accommodate 30 people , patio area with a capacity of 60 people , bin store and a car park for 13 vehicles .

Ye Olde Crown Inn in Bridge Street has gone up for sale with a guide price of £450,000 plus VAT.
The former JD Wetherspoon pub was taken over by Hawthorn Leisure in 2016 and is now on the market through chartered surveyors James A Baker.
Bosses have reassured customers that the pub is not closing down, and will continue to trade until a new owner is found.
A post on the pub's Facebook page reads: "The news has started to circulate that Ye Olde Crown is up for sale, just to keep everyone informed - we won’t be closing our doors and will continue to trade (drinks only) until new owners are found and hopefully a long time thereafter.
"Most people will agree that the pub needs heavy investment, inside and out after being a staple part of tourists days out for many years and a noticeable lack of care and attention.
"That being said, the team are all local people and have worked extremely hard, often relentlessly for 70 hours a week in the summer holidays.
"Most of these staff members have been here since Hawthorn Leisure took over in 2016 and many of the rest also worked just as hard under the previous owners JDW - it would be greatly appreciated if you could continue to support the Pub and its staff in these uncertain times.
"Opening hours etc are all unchanged, prices are still fantastic and the welcome still warm (most of the time!)"
The property listing describes Ye Olde Crown Inn as an "excellent opportunity for public house operators and restaurateurs to further develop both wet and dry sales", and says the pub is likely to be of interest to local, regional and national licensed trade operators and restaurateurs.
The ground floor comprises a large open plan bar which can accommodate 25 people, a dedicated sports area with a pool table, restaurant area for 40 diners and a further dining area for 50 people.
There is also a customer WC, a commercial kitchen, office and various stores.
The basement includes a beer store with cellar lift, a large undeveloped area which is currently being used for storage, and further stores.
On the second floor, there are three rooms which are not currently in use.
Private accommodation is situated on the first floor and comprises two double bedrooms, a kitchen, lounge and a bathroom.
The property also features an outdoor decking area which can accommodate 30 people, patio area with a capacity of 60 people, bin store and a car park for 13 vehicles.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Seven rushed to hospital after 4x4 overturns on M5

SEVEN people , including children , were rushed to hospital after the 4x4 they were in overturned on the M5 @ @ @ @ @ was called at 3:23pm yesterday ( Sunday , August 9 ) between junctions 6 and @ @ @ @ @ Droitwich after a seven-seater 4x4 towing a caravan had overturned .
The Midlands Air Ambulance @ @ @ @ @ with the Critical Care Car , four land ambulances and two paramedic officers .
A @ @ @ @ @ said : “ When crews arrived , they found the 4x4 which was believed to @ @ @ @ @ times before landing on its roof .
The occupants of the vehicle claimed the caravan @ @ @ @ @ carriageway , causing the car to spin and rollover .
“ In total , crews @ @ @ @ @ children .
Thankfully , the three men , woman and three boys were all treated @ @ @ @ @ be serious and were taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital by land for further treatment .
@

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 3:23pm yesterday (Sunday, August 9) between junctions 6 and 5 of the M5 in Droitwich after a seven-seater 4x4 towing a caravan had overturned.
The Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended, along with the Critical Care Car, four land ambulances and two paramedic officers.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When crews arrived, they found the 4x4 which was believed to have rolled up to three times before landing on its roof. The occupants of the vehicle claimed the caravan started to sway on the carriageway, causing the car to spin and rollover.
“In total, crews treated seven patients including three children. Thankfully, the three men, woman and three boys were all treated for injuries not believed to be serious and were taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital by land for further treatment.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Cricket: Birmingham League round-up

Cricket: Birmingham League round-up

HALESOWEN continued their cracking start to the belated Birmingham League campaign by reeling off a fourth straight success to top Group D of the Graham Williamson Trophy courtesy of a 37 run success over Barnards Green .
Alex Hinkley held Halesowen 's batting together following the loss of early wickets with a wellconstructed 61 .
Late support from wicketkeeper Wes Griffiths wth 32 and Charlie Hartley who hit 30 took Halesowen to a competitive 212 for eight from their alotted 40 overs .
Oliver Halion hit a half century for Barnards Green in reply , but lacked sufficient support as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short on 175 all out with just four balls remaining .
Eddie Rhodes again kept a tight rein on proceedings with the ball for Halesowen by taking three for 19 while Peter Scott proved equally effective with figures of three for 22 .
Halesowen now hold a four point lead over second placed Kidderminster who kept in touch with an easy five wicket win over Bromsgrove .
Jayden Levitt continued his fine form with the bat by scoring 54 , but Levitt apart , Bromsgrove failed to put anyway near enough runs on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six .
Charlie Stainforth kept Bromsgrove 's batsmen tied up by taking four for 18 off his eight over spell while Liam Weston accounted for the remaining wickets to fall when finishing with two for eight .
Kidderminster did n't have matters all their own way when they replied and found themselves reduced to 53 for five at one stage .
Former Worcestershire opening bat and current Herefordshire Minor Counties skipper Matt Pardoe joined forces with former Leicester and Worcestershire player Neil Pinner to pave the way for victory .
The pair made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pardoe plundering 49 not out while Pinner produced an unbeaten 45 not out as Kidderminster cantered to a winning 138 for five in just 26 overs .
Prolific Warwickshire pinch hitter Ed Pollock compiled 34 off just 22 balls but was followed by some solid batting from Jacques Banton with 51 , Amrinder Brar who scored 30 while Dom Harding hit a further 48 in the face of some accurate bowling by former Warwickshire player George Panayi who picked up three for 23 The Green went on to total 248 all out which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who were restricted to 197 for six at close .
The result was rough on Ombersley 's Nick Hammond who struck a splendid 120 not out , which included 13 fours and two sixes , but he completely lacked support .
HIMLEY helped themselves to their second success of the campaign in Group B with a surprisingly easy nine wicket walloping of Harborne , who have yet to win a game this term .
Harborne posted a promising total of 235 for seven from their 40 overs , the score being built around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Jasper Davidson who struck 68 .
But Harborne were completely outgunned by Worcestershire 's Ollie Westbury when Himley replied .
Westbury carried his bat for an unbeaten 108 not out off 126 balls , his innings containing 14 fours .
Opening partner Bilaal Hussain proved the only batsman to perish after making 48 before Callum Lea arrived at the crease and helped guide Himley over the finishing line with a well compiled 57 not out .

Alex Hinkley held Halesowen's batting together following the loss of early wickets with a wellconstructed 61.
Late support from wicketkeeper Wes Griffiths wth 32 and Charlie Hartley who hit 30 took Halesowen to a competitive 212 for eight from their alotted 40 overs.
Oliver Halion hit a half century for Barnards Green in reply, but lacked sufficient support as the Malvern based side came up well short on 175 all out with just four balls remaining.
Eddie Rhodes again kept a tight rein on proceedings with the ball for Halesowen by taking three for 19 while Peter Scott proved equally effective with figures of three for 22.
Halesowen now hold a four point lead over second placed Kidderminster who kept in touch with an easy five wicket win over Bromsgrove.
Jayden Levitt continued his fine form with the bat by scoring 54, but Levitt apart, Bromsgrove failed to put anyway near enough runs on the board when restricted to 133 for six.
Charlie Stainforth kept Bromsgrove's batsmen tied up by taking four for 18 off his eight over spell while Liam Weston accounted for the remaining wickets to fall when finishing with two for eight.
Kidderminster didn't have matters all their own way when they replied and found themselves reduced to 53 for five at one stage.
Former Worcestershire opening bat and current Herefordshire Minor Counties skipper Matt Pardoe joined forces with former Leicester and Worcestershire player Neil Pinner to pave the way for victory.
The pair made light of Bromsgrove's bowling attack, Pardoe plundering 49 not out while Pinner produced an unbeaten 45 not out as Kidderminster cantered to a winning 138 for five in just 26 overs.
Barnt Green bagged a welcome 51 run triumph over Ombersley.
Prolific Warwickshire pinch hitter Ed Pollock compiled 34 off just 22 balls but was followed by some solid batting from Jacques Banton with 51, Amrinder Brar who scored 30 while Dom Harding hit a further 48 in the face of some accurate bowling by former Warwickshire player George Panayi who picked up three for 23 The Green went on to total 248 all out which proved too much for Ombersley in reply who were restricted to 197 for six at close.
The result was rough on Ombersley's Nick Hammond who struck a splendid 120 not out, which included 13 fours and two sixes, but he completely lacked support.
HIMLEY helped themselves to their second success of the campaign in Group B with a surprisingly easy nine wicket walloping of Harborne, who have yet to win a game this term.
Harborne posted a promising total of 235 for seven from their 40 overs, the score being built around solid contributions from Tom Payne with 61 and Jasper Davidson who struck 68.
But Harborne were completely outgunned by Worcestershire's Ollie Westbury when Himley replied.
Westbury carried his bat for an unbeaten 108 not out off 126 balls, his innings containing 14 fours.
Opening partner Bilaal Hussain proved the only batsman to perish after making 48 before Callum Lea arrived at the crease and helped guide Himley over the finishing line with a well compiled 57 not out.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Sharp rise in child sex crimes reported to West Mercia Police

NEW figures show reports of child sex offences recorded by West Mercia Police have risen by 54 per cent in the last five years .
Last year 1,821 child sex offences were recorded , compared to 1,179 in 2014/15 .
West Mercia 's head of crime and vulnerability has said it is an `` absolute priority to safeguard children '' .
Chief Superintendent Damian Barratt said : “ Over the past few years we have worked diligently with our partner agencies to make sure we protect those who are at risk of harm .
“ More than 18,000 people across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been trained to know the signs of exploitation and vulnerability and what to do if they suspect a child or vulnerable person is at risk .
`` This training has been delivered to professionals whose role brings them into contact with children and young people and encourages them to report any concerns they may have .
“ We have teams dedicated to protecting vulnerable people with officers specially trained to deal with the sensitivities of these complex investigations and have teams who work on child exploitation across the force with officers working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those exploiting children and young people through child sexual exploitation and wider criminal exploitation .
“ We know that high profile cases both locally and nationally have given victims the courage to come forward and report non-recent child sex abuse and would always encourage anyone who is or has been a victim to report this regardless of when the offence took place .
`` Even if they do not wish to pursue the offence through the criminal justice system we can ensure we put them in contact with support networks.
” To report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , call 101 or report it online under the Tell Us About section of the West Mercia Police website westmercia.police.uk .
Alternatively , information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting fearless.org - a website aimed at young people where they can access non-judgmental information and advice about crime .

Last year 1,821 child sex offences were recorded, compared to 1,179 in 2014/15.
West Mercia's head of crime and vulnerability has said it is an "absolute priority to safeguard children".
Chief Superintendent Damian Barratt said: “Over the past few years we have worked diligently with our partner agencies to make sure we protect those who are at risk of harm.
“More than 18,000 people across the counties covered by West Mercia Police have been trained to know the signs of exploitation and vulnerability and what to do if they suspect a child or vulnerable person is at risk.
"This training has been delivered to professionals whose role brings them into contact with children and young people and encourages them to report any concerns they may have.
“We have teams dedicated to protecting vulnerable people with officers specially trained to deal with the sensitivities of these complex investigations and have teams who work on child exploitation across the force with officers working closely with safeguarding partners to proactively investigate those exploiting children and young people through child sexual exploitation and wider criminal exploitation.
“We know that high profile cases both locally and nationally have given victims the courage to come forward and report non-recent child sex abuse and would always encourage anyone who is or has been a victim to report this regardless of when the offence took place.
"Even if they do not wish to pursue the offence through the criminal justice system we can ensure we put them in contact with support networks.”
To report concerns of child sex offences to police, call 101 or report it online under the Tell Us About section of the West Mercia Police website westmercia.police.uk.
Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting fearless.org - a website aimed at young people where they can access non-judgmental information and advice about crime.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Product recall: Sainsbury's recall milk over 'possible bacteria contamination'

A supermarket chain have launched an urgent product recall on a number of cartons of milk over fears of a 'microbiological contamination ' .
Here 's what you need to know .
Which supermarket has recalled the milk ?
Sainsbury ’ s have taken the step of recalling by 'Sainsbury ’ s semi-skimmed less than 2 % fat 1 litre UHT milk ' .
The supermarket says the recall is because of possible microbiological contamination that could lead to spoilage .
They add that this may make the product unsafe to consume .
• Product name : by Sainsbury ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UHT milk • Best before : December 28 , 2020 and December 29 , 2020 • Risk statement : Possible microbiological contamination may make the product unsafe to consume .
A spokesperson from Sainsbury 's said : `` No other Sainsbury 's products have been affected by this issue .
`` We would like to apologise for the inconvenience this may cause . ''
What should people do if they have bought it ?
A spokesperson from the Food Standards Agency added : `` If you have bought any of the above product @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund when next visiting for groceries and other essentials .

Here's what you need to know.
Which supermarket has recalled the milk?
Sainsbury’s have taken the step of recalling by 'Sainsbury’s semi-skimmed less than 2% fat 1 litre UHT milk'.
The supermarket says the recall is because of possible microbiological contamination that could lead to spoilage. They add that this may make the product unsafe to consume.
Which products are affected?
Product name: by Sainsbury’s semi-skimmed less than 2% fat UHT milk
by Sainsbury’s semi-skimmed less than 2% fat UHT milk Pack size: 1 litre
1 litre Best before: December 28, 2020 and December 29, 2020
December 28, 2020 and December 29, 2020 Risk statement: Possible microbiological contamination may make the product unsafe to consume.
A spokesperson from Sainsbury's said: "No other Sainsbury's products have been affected by this issue.
"We would like to apologise for the inconvenience this may cause."
What should people do if they have bought it?
A spokesperson from the Food Standards Agency added: "If you have bought any of the above product do not consume it.
"Instead, return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund when next visiting for groceries and other essentials.
"Alternatively contact Sainsbury’s careline on 0800 636262."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-10--Project Tom volunteers donate 1,000 visors to Worcestershire NHS

A VOLUNTEER group spear-headed by a Wyre Forest patient with multiple chronic conditions has donated thousands of pounds worth of PPE visors to Worcestershire 's NHS .
ProjectTOM was founded by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust patient WaiLo Li , who was born in British Hong Kong and raised in Wyre Forest .
WaiLo suffers with complex regional pain syndrome and deep-infiltrating stage four endometriosis - two of the most painful conditions according to the NHS .
ProjectTOM has donated £5,000 worth of PPE visors to Worcestershire hospital staff The ProjectTOM x 3P Innovation partnership has donated nearly 1,000 visors , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which runs Kidderminster Hospital and Worcestershire Royal , to help staff in their ongoing fight against coronavirus .
WaiLo Li , who has co-ordinated the project despite living with constant pain and bereavement herself , said : “ We have asked everyone to start with their own networks wherever they might be in the world .
`` Everyone can do something – no act of kindness is too small .
This has been a true team effort – we ’ re all simply part of the Global Covid Volunteers Army .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the battle against Covid-19 – from manufacturers to pro-bono couriers , our amazing volunteers , as well as those who support our online anti-racism campaign , calling for people to be kind , be an ally and stand up to bullies.
” This is the largest donation ever made by the partnership , which has also provided more than 3,300 high-quality PPE visor guards to GP surgeries , clinics , carers , police , schools , nursing homes , hospices and crematoriums across the UK .
ProjectTOM volunteers across the country have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the pandemic - leaving thank you notes for unsung heroes , providing hundreds of home-cooked meals and care packages for the NHS , elderly and vulnerable out-of-pocket , and launching an online petition against racism in light of increased hate crimes against East Asians in the UK since the coronavirus outbreak .
Matthew Hopkins , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , said : “ Our staff across all our hospitals and health and care services in Worcestershire are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the history of the NHS .
• Stourport pub goes up for sale • No new coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire for 8 days '' This includes frontline staff working under tremendous pressure looking after coronavirus patients and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them .
“ We are extremely grateful to WaiLo and ProjectTOM for this incredibly generous donation of PPE .
`` This is a huge morale boost for our staff who are working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charity , said : “ We are hugely grateful for the incredible support from WaiLo and the team at ProjectTOM .
“ They have helped us to maintain sustainable supplies of PPE , that has been essential to ensuring Trust staff remain safe and enabling them to provide the highest possible care for patients .
”

ProjectTOM was founded by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust patient WaiLo Li, who was born in British Hong Kong and raised in Wyre Forest.
WaiLo suffers with complex regional pain syndrome and deep-infiltrating stage four endometriosis - two of the most painful conditions according to the NHS.
ProjectTOM has donated £5,000 worth of PPE visors to Worcestershire hospital staff
The ProjectTOM x 3P Innovation partnership has donated nearly 1,000 visors, worth around £5,000, to the trust, which runs Kidderminster Hospital and Worcestershire Royal, to help staff in their ongoing fight against coronavirus.
WaiLo Li, who has co-ordinated the project despite living with constant pain and bereavement herself, said: “We have asked everyone to start with their own networks wherever they might be in the world.
"Everyone can do something – no act of kindness is too small. This has been a true team effort – we’re all simply part of the Global Covid Volunteers Army.
“Massive thanks to all those that contributed in the battle against Covid-19 – from manufacturers to pro-bono couriers, our amazing volunteers, as well as those who support our online anti-racism campaign, calling for people to be kind, be an ally and stand up to bullies.”
This is the largest donation ever made by the partnership, which has also provided more than 3,300 high-quality PPE visor guards to GP surgeries, clinics, carers, police, schools, nursing homes, hospices and crematoriums across the UK.
ProjectTOM volunteers across the country have been engaging in acts of kindness in response to the pandemic - leaving thank you notes for unsung heroes, providing hundreds of home-cooked meals and care packages for the NHS, elderly and vulnerable out-of-pocket, and launching an online petition against racism in light of increased hate crimes against East Asians in the UK since the coronavirus outbreak.
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “Our staff across all our hospitals and health and care services in Worcestershire are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS.
Read more:
"This includes frontline staff working under tremendous pressure looking after coronavirus patients and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them.
“We are extremely grateful to WaiLo and ProjectTOM for this incredibly generous donation of PPE.
"This is a huge morale boost for our staff who are working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients.”
Jason Levy, from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, said: “We are hugely grateful for the incredible support from WaiLo and the team at ProjectTOM.
“They have helped us to maintain sustainable supplies of PPE, that has been essential to ensuring Trust staff remain safe and enabling them to provide the highest possible care for patients.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--Appeal after man found dead in crashed car in Romsley field

A 24-YEAR-OLD man was found dead by police officers after a car crashed into a fence and ended up in @ @ @ @ @ appealing for witnesses following a collision at the junction of Old House Lane and Newtown @ @ @ @ @ in the early hours of Saturday , August 7 .
Officers believe the car involved @ @ @ @ @ the registration WF56 AYY - was travelling southbound on Newtown Lane when it crossed the @ @ @ @ @ wooden fence on the opposite side of the road .
The car is also believed @ @ @ @ @ tree before coming to a stop in a field .
The vehicle was later reported @ @ @ @ @ 3pm the following day .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ may have seen the collision or seen the vehicle prior to the collision .
It @ @ @ @ @ area . ''
Anyone with information on the crash is urged to contact Sergeant Liam @ @ @ @ @ reference 453i .

Police are appealing for witnesses following a collision at the junction of Old House Lane and Newtown Lane in Romsley, Worcestershire in the early hours of Saturday, August 8.
Officers believe the car involved - a grey BMW with the registration WF56 AYY - was travelling southbound on Newtown Lane when it crossed the junction and collided with a wooden fence on the opposite side of the road.
The car is also believed to have crashed into a tree before coming to a stop in a field.
The vehicle was later reported by a passerby at around 3pm the following day.
Officers attended and found a 24-year-old man dead inside the car.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the collision or seen the vehicle prior to the collision. It has travelled from the Birmingham area."
Anyone with information on the crash is urged to contact Sergeant Liam Bennett on 101, quoting reference 453i.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--Weather warning as thunderstorms expected in Wyre Forest

A YELLOW weather warning has been issued in Wyre Forest as thunderstorms are expected to hit the district overnight .
The hot weather will continue across the UK , with heatwave conditions for many , creating ideal conditions for thunderstorms which will bring heavy rain and increasing risks from flash flooding , lightning and hail .
Yellow thunderstorm warnings are in place across the country between now and Thursday .
In Wyre Forest , scattered thunderstorms are expected to start at around 11pm on Tuesday night , continuing into Wednesday morning .
It will remain hot as temperatures are expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Wednesday .
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms in the area until Thursday Stormy weather is expected to subside into Wednesday afternoon but thunderstorms are set to start again as we move into the evening and throughout Thursday .
Temperatures will cool down slightly on Thursday , with highs of 27C , and while thunderstorms are expected to ease overnight into Friday , showers will continue through to next week , with some more scattered thunderstorms expected on Sunday .
The Met Office has warned there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in some areas of the UK could be flooded quickly between now and Thursday , with some damage to buildings from floodwater , lightning strikes and large hail .
Levels in the River Severn at Bewdley are expected to rise slightly on Wednesday to 0.91m - still well below the point at which flooding is expected on low-lying land .
The storms could result in delays and some cancellations to public transport , the Met Office has warned , as well as difficult driving conditions with poor visibility .
There is a slight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other services to some homes and businesses could be lost .

The hot weather will continue across the UK, with heatwave conditions for many, creating ideal conditions for thunderstorms which will bring heavy rain and increasing risks from flash flooding, lightning and hail.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings are in place across the country between now and Thursday.
In Wyre Forest, scattered thunderstorms are expected to start at around 11pm on Tuesday night, continuing into Wednesday morning.
It will remain hot as temperatures are expected to reach highs of 30C on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms in the area until Thursday
Stormy weather is expected to subside into Wednesday afternoon but thunderstorms are set to start again as we move into the evening and throughout Thursday.
Temperatures will cool down slightly on Thursday, with highs of 27C, and while thunderstorms are expected to ease overnight into Friday, showers will continue through to next week, with some more scattered thunderstorms expected on Sunday.
The Met Office has warned there is a small chance that homes and businesses in some areas of the UK could be flooded quickly between now and Thursday, with some damage to buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes and large hail.
Levels in the River Severn at Bewdley are expected to rise slightly on Wednesday to 0.91m - still well below the point at which flooding is expected on low-lying land.
The storms could result in delays and some cancellations to public transport, the Met Office has warned, as well as difficult driving conditions with poor visibility.
There is a slight chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--Plan for new 'eco-friendly' Kidderminster care home approved

A PLANNING application has been approved for a 66-bed care home at the old British Sugar factory site in Kidderminster .
LNT Care Developments was given the go-ahead from Wyre Forest District Council on Friday ( August 7 ) to build a three-storey elderly person 's care home on land off Silverwoods Way , near to Wyre Forest Leisure Centre .
The new care home is expected to create around 60 jobs .
An artist 's impression of the new 66-bed care home .
Image from planning application Nick Broadbent , development director at LNT Care Developments , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planning on this care home in Kidderminster and are due to start construction in the next couple of months .
`` The home is designed to provide a high-quality resource for elderly people in the local community .
`` The facility will incorporate intelligent dementia design and be eco-friendly by benefitting from ground source heat pumps and LED lighting keeping utility costs low . ''
An artist 's impression of the new 66-bed care home .
Image from planning application LNT has developed over 100 care homes nationwide , most recently in Duston @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kidderminster home will have 21 car parking spaces and two disabled spaces , as well as an ambulance and taxi drop-off area .
Access to the site will be from a newly-formed road off Silverwoods Way via the existing roundabout .
An artist 's impression of the new care home car park .
Image from planning application LNT says the home will fulfill a need for care home places in the area , while also creating jobs in the area both during construction and in the long-term operation of the home .
British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and much of the site has already been redeveloped .

LNT Care Developments was given the go-ahead from Wyre Forest District Council on Friday (August 7) to build a three-storey elderly person's care home on land off Silverwoods Way, near to Wyre Forest Leisure Centre.
The new care home is expected to create around 60 jobs.
An artist's impression of the new 66-bed care home. Image from planning application
Nick Broadbent, development director at LNT Care Developments, said: "We are delighted to have received planning on this care home in Kidderminster and are due to start construction in the next couple of months.
"The home is designed to provide a high-quality resource for elderly people in the local community.
"The facility will incorporate intelligent dementia design and be eco-friendly by benefitting from ground source heat pumps and LED lighting keeping utility costs low."
An artist's impression of the new 66-bed care home. Image from planning application
LNT has developed over 100 care homes nationwide, most recently in Duston, York and Telford.
The new Kidderminster home will have 21 car parking spaces and two disabled spaces, as well as an ambulance and taxi drop-off area.
Access to the site will be from a newly-formed road off Silverwoods Way via the existing roundabout.
An artist's impression of the new care home car park. Image from planning application
LNT says the home will fulfill a need for care home places in the area, while also creating jobs in the area both during construction and in the long-term operation of the home.
British Sugar closed its Kidderminster operation in 2004 and much of the site has already been redeveloped.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--The Farmer who became my 'floods hero'

The Farmer who became my 'floods hero'

Michael Allarton and his husband Dan Jay had no warning when the floods hit .
They were woken at 5.30am in the morning to step into water cascading through their ground floor riverside flat .
“ It had come on in hours .
We couldn ’ t take anything , we just had to get ourselves safe .
It was so traumatic.
” Then the misery of seeing their home and all their belongings flooded was made worse by the fact that they had nowhere to go .
“ The council were struggling to find places for everyone.
” It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Haye stepped in and offered Michael and Dan a temporary lifeline .
Stuart runs Haye Farm at Bewdley and , apart from cattle and sheep , offers accommodation in a converted barn .
When Michael mentioned his plight , Stuart immediately offered him shelter while a more permanent solution was found .
“ He helped us out when we were in need .
It was a wonderful thing to do , especially when he had so many other things to deal with.
” But that is far from the only reason Michael has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Year in the Three Counties Farmer annual awards .
“ He ’ s quiet and unassuming and people don ’ t realise how much he does.
” Stuart has set up a chicken share scheme which allows a small group of local people to keep chickens , and he is also busy organising school visits to the farm .
“ He loves educating children and seeing them have a great day out on his farm .
He ’ s passionate about his Dexter Cattle and Wiltshire sheep , and has a holistic approach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planet and looks after it the best that he can.
” The Farming Awards ceremony takes place in digital format – because of coronavirus - in November .
Entries are open now and to nominate just go to https : //www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/ and fill out the online form .

They were woken at 5.30am in the morning to step into water cascading through their ground floor riverside flat.
“It had come on in hours. We couldn’t take anything, we just had to get ourselves safe. It was so traumatic.”
Then the misery of seeing their home and all their belongings flooded was made worse by the fact that they had nowhere to go.
“The council were struggling to find places for everyone.”
It was then that ‘hero’ Stuart Haye stepped in and offered Michael and Dan a temporary lifeline.
Stuart runs Haye Farm at Bewdley and, apart from cattle and sheep, offers accommodation in a converted barn.
When Michael mentioned his plight, Stuart immediately offered him shelter while a more permanent solution was found.
“He helped us out when we were in need. It was a wonderful thing to do, especially when he had so many other things to deal with.”
But that is far from the only reason Michael has nominated Stuart for Farming Hero of the Year in the Three Counties Farmer annual awards.
“He’s quiet and unassuming and people don’t realise how much he does.”
Stuart has set up a chicken share scheme which allows a small group of local people to keep chickens, and he is also busy organising school visits to the farm.
“He loves educating children and seeing them have a great day out on his farm.
He’s passionate about his Dexter Cattle and Wiltshire sheep, and has a holistic approach to farming.
“He loves the planet and looks after it the best that he can.”
The Farming Awards ceremony takes place in digital format – because of coronavirus - in November.
Entries are open now and to nominate just go to https://www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/ and fill out the online form.
Categories are: Farming Hero; Sheep Farmer; Farm Conservation; Cattle Farmer; Family Run Farm; Pig Farmer; Young Farmer (under 26); Arable Farmer; Farming Contractor; Fruit/hop farmer.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--RSPCA deals with over 1,200 lockdown incidents in Worcestershire

KEY workers from the RSPCA have rescued over 1,200 animals in need in Worcestershire since the coronavirus lockdown .
The charity 's officers have dealt with 1,231 incidents in the county since the lockdown began on March 23 - an average of nine per day .
Across the country , the RSPCA has answered 442,344 calls and dealt with 106,676 incidents - that ’ s an average of 790 incidents a day .
Some of the rescues carried out in Worcestershire include an injured Shetland pony who was alone at the side of a road in Upton-upon-Severn on July 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was found by two members of the public who called the RSPCA .
Axl had a nasty injury to his front leg which was dripping with blood and making it difficult for him to walk .
He is now being cared for at a local equine hospital .
Another incident involved a bat who got stuck in a chimney in Broadheath .
Inspector Suzi Smith was called to help the stricken critter on May 10 after he fell down a chimney into a fireplace .
Luckily , he wasn ’ t injured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and released the following day .
As well as operating an emergency service , rescuing animals in need , RSPCA officers have also been collecting animals from the homes of people who have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19 .
Dermot Murphy , chief inspectorate officer , said : “ We ’ ve had to quickly and drastically change the way we work during these unprecedented times , from the way we rehome animals to the PPE we wear when responding to calls .
“ But the priority for us during lockdown has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those animals who need us - while also helping people who have been hit hard by the pandemic .
“ Now , more than four months into lockdown , we ’ ve passed a milestone as we responded to our 100,000th incident .
And our staff are as busy as ever collecting abandoned animals , investigating complaints of cruelty , providing life-saving veterinary treatment to the sick and injured , and finding wonderful new homes for our residents . ''
RSPCA animal rescuers were designated key workers by the government at the beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a huge impact on the charity ’ s finances .
Vital funding is now needed to help the organisation continue its work rescuing animals and caring for the 6,381 animals in its care across England and Wales .
Dermot added : `` To continue our vital work and to survive the huge impact this pandemic has had on the economy and , therefore , the charity sector , we really need your help .
Please donate whatever you can spare . ''
To donate , go to rspca.org.uk/covid .

The charity's officers have dealt with 1,231 incidents in the county since the lockdown began on March 23 - an average of nine per day.
Across the country, the RSPCA has answered 442,344 calls and dealt with 106,676 incidents - that’s an average of 790 incidents a day.
RSPCA officer Brian Milligan
Some of the rescues carried out in Worcestershire include an injured Shetland pony who was alone at the side of a road in Upton-upon-Severn on July 3.
The pony, now named Axl, was found by two members of the public who called the RSPCA.
Axl had a nasty injury to his front leg which was dripping with blood and making it difficult for him to walk.
He is now being cared for at a local equine hospital.
Another incident involved a bat who got stuck in a chimney in Broadheath.
RSPCA officer Emma Byrne rescuing a cat during lockdown
Inspector Suzi Smith was called to help the stricken critter on May 10 after he fell down a chimney into a fireplace.
Luckily, he wasn’t injured so he was rescued, checked over and released the following day.
As well as operating an emergency service, rescuing animals in need, RSPCA officers have also been collecting animals from the homes of people who have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19.
Dermot Murphy, chief inspectorate officer, said: “We’ve had to quickly and drastically change the way we work during these unprecedented times, from the way we rehome animals to the PPE we wear when responding to calls.
“But the priority for us during lockdown has been to continue to be there for those animals who need us - while also helping people who have been hit hard by the pandemic.
“Now, more than four months into lockdown, we’ve passed a milestone as we responded to our 100,000th incident. And our staff are as busy as ever collecting abandoned animals, investigating complaints of cruelty, providing life-saving veterinary treatment to the sick and injured, and finding wonderful new homes for our residents."
RSPCA officer Claire Thomas helps a seagull during the coronavirus lockdown
RSPCA animal rescuers were designated key workers by the government at the beginning of lockdown but the global pandemic has had a huge impact on the charity’s finances.
Vital funding is now needed to help the organisation continue its work rescuing animals and caring for the 6,381 animals in its care across England and Wales.
Dermot added: "To continue our vital work and to survive the huge impact this pandemic has had on the economy and, therefore, the charity sector, we really need your help. Please donate whatever you can spare."
To donate, go to rspca.org.uk/covid.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--Man taken to hospital after crash at Long Bank near Bewdley

A MAN has been taken to hospital after a three-car crash on the A456 at Long Bank , near Bewdley @ @ @ @ @ to the scene of the crash , which is reported to have taken place close @ @ @ @ @ Hill just before midday .
The road was closed in both directions for a short @ @ @ @ @ at the scene .
Go Ape Wyre Forest posted on Facebook shortly after the collision @ @ @ @ @ access to the forest due to a `` major road traffic accident '' .
A @ @ @ @ @ Service said : `` We were called at 11.57am to reports of a three-vehicle RTC @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene and treated @ @ @ @ @ of one of the vehicles - a man , who was treated for injuries that @ @ @ @ @ serious .
`` He was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further treatment . ''

An ambulance was called to the scene of the crash, which is reported to have taken place close to the entrance to Callow Hill just before midday.
The road was closed in both directions for a short time while emergency services were at the scene.
Go Ape Wyre Forest posted on Facebook shortly after the collision to say there was no access to the forest due to a "major road traffic accident".
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 11.57am to reports of a three-vehicle RTC on the Long Bank A456.
"We sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene and treated one patient - the driver of one of the vehicles - a man, who was treated for injuries that are not believed to be serious.
"He was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further treatment."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--MP: Council gives no evidence that Stourport units are best plan for homeless

NEXT Tuesday , Wyre Forest District Council ’ s application to build a homeless shelter in Stourport goes in front of the council ’ s planning committee .
A few weeks ago , I wrote about this and it was brought to my attention by a council officer that I had misled readers .
I stated that the council bought the site in question – the old Lloyds Garage site on Bridge Street – under a compulsory purchase order .
This was not correct and references an article in this newspaper on the December 5 , 2010 - “ Stourport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which talks at length about the £30,000 legal battle fought by Lloyds owner Paul Mitchell .
In the end , he was ground down by the process , talking about “ our battle with the council that we lost to the bully with the big stick '' .
He opted to take the money offered by the council to save himself from further legal costs .
So , to be clear , the council did not buy the site under a CPO and I apologise for misleading readers .
The site was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as “ part of our larger redevelopment plans for opening up the entrance to the canal basins ” and it is for this reason that local businesses in Stourport are dismayed at the council ’ s application for the site to be used as a homeless centre .
The council has been unable to deliver on its promise from all those years ago and is now looking for a different use .
But this is a significant change of plans and significant investment by the council of taxpayers ’ money .
What I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that given the investment , the council has been unable to give me their analysis that this is the most appropriate provision for those in need – the homeless .
Homelessness extends from those who find themselves falling between leases , or temporarily unable to pay rent , all the way to rough sleepers who may have complex needs over and above their need for shelter .
They always need access to medical provision , and that can be provided by the GP surgery in Stourport .
But what about benefits and finding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Or more complex medical needs ?
The nearest Job Centre , college and hospital is five miles away .
Any home is better than no home , but given this is a brand new , expensive development at the taxpayers ’ cost , should WFDC not at least have done some work to make sure the proposals are the very best we can do for those in need ?

A few weeks ago, I wrote about this and it was brought to my attention by a council officer that I had misled readers. I stated that the council bought the site in question – the old Lloyds Garage site on Bridge Street – under a compulsory purchase order.
This was not correct and references an article in this newspaper on the December 5, 2010 - “Stourport Garage Owner Slams Wyre Forest Council”, which talks at length about the £30,000 legal battle fought by Lloyds owner Paul Mitchell.
In the end, he was ground down by the process, talking about “our battle with the council that we lost to the bully with the big stick".
He opted to take the money offered by the council to save himself from further legal costs. So, to be clear, the council did not buy the site under a CPO and I apologise for misleading readers.
The site was bought, according to the article, as “part of our larger redevelopment plans for opening up the entrance to the canal basins” and it is for this reason that local businesses in Stourport are dismayed at the council’s application for the site to be used as a homeless centre.
The council has been unable to deliver on its promise from all those years ago and is now looking for a different use. But this is a significant change of plans and significant investment by the council of taxpayers’ money.
What I find most troubling about all this is that given the investment, the council has been unable to give me their analysis that this is the most appropriate provision for those in need – the homeless.
Homelessness extends from those who find themselves falling between leases, or temporarily unable to pay rent, all the way to rough sleepers who may have complex needs over and above their need for shelter.
They always need access to medical provision, and that can be provided by the GP surgery in Stourport. But what about benefits and finding a new job? Or training? Or more complex medical needs? The nearest Job Centre, college and hospital is five miles away.
Any home is better than no home, but given this is a brand new, expensive development at the taxpayers’ cost, should WFDC not at least have done some work to make sure the proposals are the very best we can do for those in need?


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-11--Foreign Office issue update on holidays to France, Greece, Malaysia and Brunei

The Foreign Office have issued an update for travellers heading to France , Greece , Malaysia and Brunei .
Here 's what you need to know .
What is the latest on heading to France ?
Speculation remains that France will be removed from the Government ’ s quarantine exemption list later this week due to concern over a rise in coronavirus cases .
However , at the time of writing , France remains on the Government 's quarantine list .
France ’ s Health Minister has announced that wearing masks in enclosed public spaces are compulsory from Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and over .
For more information on the public spaces this applies to , see the government website .
Public spaces include : • Restaurants and bars ( including those at altitude ) • Hotels and shared holiday properties ( including those at altitude ) • Indoor sporting venues such as gyms ( except for while participating in sporting activity ) , and some other open-air venues Since May 11 , wearing masks on public transport across France has been compulsory for all users aged 11 and over , with fines for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also compulsory in taxis and private hire vehicles without a plexiglass screen .
Parisian local authorities have also announced that wearing masks in certain busy outdoor public spaces is compulsory from Monday , August 10 , for those aged 11 and over .
What is the latest on heading to Greece ?
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office say the Greek authorities are likely to impose local coronavirus-related restrictions in certain areas , if they perceive a heightened case-rate or other valid reason , in relation to that area .
Holidaymakers have been urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other information sources .
From 6am on August 7 until 6pm on August 17 , 2020 , local restrictions are in place on the island of Poros .
These include : • Prohibition of operation of all food/catering sector-related shops , services and facilities from 11pm - 7am the next day .
• Suspension of any kind of live events and celebrations such as parties , trade fairs , religious ceremonies , open markets etc .
• No more than 9 people can gather for any reason in public or private spaces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed per table in dining facilities ( including cafes , tavernas , restaurants ) is 4 , unless your group consists only of close family members you regularly engage with , in which case , a group of up to 6 people is allowed .
• Mandatory use of masks indoors ( except in private spaces such as hotel rooms ) and outdoors throughout the island .
Additional checks and patrols will be carried out to enforce the above measures .
Travellers should comply with all the Greek authorities ’ requirements ; failure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fines .
Across Greece , it is mandatory to wear face-masks on public transport ( including flights and ferries ) , at airports and in taxis .
Travel in a private car or a taxi is limited to a maximum of 3 adult passengers per vehicle , in addition to the driver .
Any children in the vehicle do not count towards this limit .
When travelling in a taxi , all passengers must wear face-masks .
Holidaymakers may travel throughout Greece , including to the islands .
What is the latest on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arriving in the UK from Malaysia or Brunei no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days .
The countries were added to the Government ’ s list of destinations from which people arriving in England do not need to enter quarantine .
The devolved administrations have taken the same decision .
This is unlikely to open up the possibility of UK holidaymakers travelling to the countries in the short-term though .
Around 360,000 British nationals visit Malaysia each year , but the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO ) website states that entry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for those holding certain residency visas and employment passes .
Meanwhile the FCO describes entry to Brunei as “ severely restricted ” .
• For the latest on this ever-changing situation , visit : gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Here's what you need to know.
What is the latest on heading to France?
Speculation remains that France will be removed from the Government’s quarantine exemption list later this week due to concern over a rise in coronavirus cases.
However, at the time of writing, France remains on the Government's quarantine list.
France’s Health Minister has announced that wearing masks in enclosed public spaces are compulsory from Monday, July 20, for those aged 11 and over. For more information on the public spaces this applies to, see the government website. Public spaces include:
Public conference and meeting rooms
Cinemas, theatre and enclosed entertainment venues
Restaurants and bars (including those at altitude)
Hotels and shared holiday properties (including those at altitude)
Mountain huts/cabins
Education and training establishments
Games rooms, leisure centres and holiday parks
Libraries and archives
Places of worship
Indoor sporting venues such as gyms (except for while participating in sporting activity), and some other open-air venues
Museums
Marquees and tents
Public boats (including moored quayside bars/venues)
Train and bus stations
Shops and shopping centres
Administrative buildings and banks
Covered markets
Since May 11, wearing masks on public transport across France has been compulsory for all users aged 11 and over, with fines for those who are not compliant. Masks are also compulsory in taxis and private hire vehicles without a plexiglass screen.
Parisian local authorities have also announced that wearing masks in certain busy outdoor public spaces is compulsory from Monday, August 10, for those aged 11 and over.
What is the latest on heading to Greece?
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office say the Greek authorities are likely to impose local coronavirus-related restrictions in certain areas, if they perceive a heightened case-rate or other valid reason, in relation to that area.
Holidaymakers have been urged to monitor the situation regularly via media and other information sources.
From 6am on August 7 until 6pm on August 17, 2020, local restrictions are in place on the island of Poros. These include:
Prohibition of operation of all food/catering sector-related shops, services and facilities from 11pm - 7am the next day.
Suspension of any kind of live events and celebrations such as parties, trade fairs, religious ceremonies, open markets etc.
No more than 9 people can gather for any reason in public or private spaces.
The maximum number of people allowed per table in dining facilities (including cafes, tavernas, restaurants) is 4, unless your group consists only of close family members you regularly engage with, in which case, a group of up to 6 people is allowed.
Mandatory use of masks indoors (except in private spaces such as hotel rooms) and outdoors throughout the island.
Additional checks and patrols will be carried out to enforce the above measures. Travellers should comply with all the Greek authorities’ requirements; failure to do so could result in heavy fines.
Across Greece, it is mandatory to wear face-masks on public transport (including flights and ferries), at airports and in taxis.
Travel in a private car or a taxi is limited to a maximum of 3 adult passengers per vehicle, in addition to the driver. Any children in the vehicle do not count towards this limit. When travelling in a taxi, all passengers must wear face-masks.
Holidaymakers may travel throughout Greece, including to the islands.
What is the latest on heading to Malaysia and Brunei?
Travellers arriving in the UK from Malaysia or Brunei no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days.
The countries were added to the Government’s list of destinations from which people arriving in England do not need to enter quarantine.
The devolved administrations have taken the same decision.
This is unlikely to open up the possibility of UK holidaymakers travelling to the countries in the short-term though.
Around 360,000 British nationals visit Malaysia each year, but the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website states that entry for foreign nationals is currently prohibited except for those holding certain residency visas and employment passes.
Meanwhile the FCO describes entry to Brunei as “severely restricted”.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Funding bid to widen Stourport to Kidderminster canal paths

A SECOND bid for cash to improve walking and cycle routes in Worcestershire has been submitted by the county council following criticism the first application was not ambitious enough .
Worcestershire County Council has applied for a second grant of £1.082m from the government 's Emergency Active Travel Fund which , if approved , will pay for canal towpaths to be widened to at least two metres in areas between Stourport and Churchfields in Kidderminster .
In July , the council announced that walking and cycling routes between Kidderminster and Stourport would benefit from a share of £135,000 from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Green Party member Vicky Caulfield said the bid showed a `` lack of ambition '' .
Cllr Caulfield had previously joined calls for the fund to be used to widen the the narrow footpaths on Bewdley Bridge .
This second round of funding would allow the council to widen and improve canal towpaths along the Silverwoods link , near Wyre Forest Leisure Centre , and other areas along the route between Stourport and Kidderminster .
Councillor Alan Amos , cabinet member for Highways said : “ We already have an excellent programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am delighted that the City and District Councils fully support our bid .
I am grateful for their support .
`` Many of our schemes involve partnership working and we will be dependent on this joint working approach so that we can make things happen for the residents of Worcestershire by expanding our Active Travel facilities with permanent rather than temporary provision.
” Other projects set to benefit from the second round of funding include the National Cycle Network 5 route through Redditch and the towpath from Diglis to Sixways in Worcester , @ @ @ @ @ @

Worcestershire County Council has applied for a second grant of £1.082m from the government's Emergency Active Travel Fund which, if approved, will pay for canal towpaths to be widened to at least two metres in areas between Stourport and Churchfields in Kidderminster.
In July, the council announced that walking and cycling routes between Kidderminster and Stourport would benefit from a share of £135,000 from the fund, however Wyre Forest district councillor and Green Party member Vicky Caulfield said the bid showed a "lack of ambition".
Cllr Caulfield had previously joined calls for the fund to be used to widen the the narrow footpaths on Bewdley Bridge.
This second round of funding would allow the council to widen and improve canal towpaths along the Silverwoods link, near Wyre Forest Leisure Centre, and other areas along the route between Stourport and Kidderminster.
Councillor Alan Amos, cabinet member for Highways said: “We already have an excellent programme of Active Travel works underway and I am delighted that the City and District Councils fully support our bid. I am grateful for their support.
"Many of our schemes involve partnership working and we will be dependent on this joint working approach so that we can make things happen for the residents of Worcestershire by expanding our Active Travel facilities with permanent rather than temporary provision.”
Other projects set to benefit from the second round of funding include the National Cycle Network 5 route through Redditch and the towpath from Diglis to Sixways in Worcester, the Pershore Active Travel Link.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Dangerous driver jailed after police chase through Romsley

DRAMATIC dash cam footage shows police in a high-speed chase with a dangerous driver in Romsley .
The video , @ @ @ @ @ Operations Patrol Unit for Worcestershire , shows officers in a high-speed pursuit with the vehicle @ @ @ @ @ stop for police .
Footage shows police chasing the driver down the Bromsgrove Road and @ @ @ @ @ heading towards Halesowen at speeds reaching 76mph on the 30mph stretch of road .
The @ @ @ @ @ 4pm on May 21 this year after officers attempted to pull over the driver at @ @ @ @ @ chase due to safety reasons but the driver was caught nearby and arrested .
Officers @ @ @ @ @ disqualified at the time .
The driver has since been setenced to six months in @ @ @ @ @ OPU Worcestershire posted on Twitter : `` This disqualified driver has just been sentenced to @ @ @ @ @ dangerous driving after they failed to stop for us in Romsley .

The video, which was shared by the Operations Patrol Unit for Worcestershire, shows officers in a high-speed pursuit with the vehicle after the driver failed to stop for police.
Footage shows police chasing the driver down the Bromsgrove Road and past the Sun pub, heading towards Halesowen at speeds reaching 76mph on the 30mph stretch of road.
The pursuit took place shortly after 4pm on May 21 this year after officers attempted to pull over the driver at Romsley.
Police abandoned the chase due to safety reasons but the driver was caught nearby and arrested.
Officers then discovered the driver was disqualified at the time.
The driver has since been setenced to six months in prison for dangerous driving.
OPU Worcestershire posted on Twitter: "This disqualified driver has just been sentenced to six months in prison for dangerous driving after they failed to stop for us in Romsley.
"Pursuit abandoned for safety reasons but caught nearby. #notworththerisk #denyingcriminalstheuseoftheroad"


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Coronavirus: 'Wear a face mask during sex to stop spread' - health experts say

A sexual health charity has recommended that people wear face masks and pick positions where they are not face-to-face during sex to help manage the risk of coronavirus .
Here 's what you need to know .
The Terrence Higgins Trust ( THT ) has published new guidance on managing the risk of Covid-19 during intercourse .
Accroding to research by the charity - due to the social distancing measures introduced , the number of people seeking new sexual partners has plummeted .
The organisation found that 84 per cent of people had abstained from sex outside of their immediate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , after several months of the lockdown and its partial easing , THT said it was no longer realistic to ask people to completely refrain from sex .
What is the latest guidance on intercourse during the pandemic ?
In the latest guidance , the charity advised the best sexual partner during the pandemic is yourself or someone you live with .
The reccommended that masturbation , using sex toys or participating in phone or online sex are recommended as the safest options - as these can be done at a distance from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone outside of your household ?
If having sex with someone outside of your household , THT added that having one regular partner or limiting the number of sexual partners as well as taking other precautions .
Potential sexual partners should discuss Covid-19 and ask if they or anyone in their household have had symptoms or tested positive .
The charity also recommended not having sex if you feel unwell and to isolate if you have symptoms .
Sexual partners have also been advised to wash their hands for 20 seconds before and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Due to the ways Covid-19 is spread , the charity further recommends not kissing and wearing a face covering during intercourse .
The charity also advises picking positions where participants are not face to face .
Sexually active people are also advised to use condoms as well as dams for activities such as rimming , as the Covid-19 virus is thought to be found in some bodily fluids .
What have medical experts said ?
THT 's medical director Dr Michael Brady said : `` Sex is a very important part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indefinitely is not realistic .
`` That 's why , as the Covid-19 pandemic continues , we all need to find ways to balance our need for sex and intimacy with the risks of the spread of Covid-19 .
`` We 're clear that abstaining from sex is the best way to protect yourself from coronavirus .
`` But we hope by issuing this advice we will help people to manage the risks of Covid-19 while also being able to have and enjoy sex . ''
The charity has also stressed the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also recommends getting an STI test before starting to have sex again .
THT previously said lockdown measures could have helped slow HIV transmission rates , creating an `` incredible opportunity '' to `` break the chain '' of HIV infection spread .
As it can take around a month after possible exposure to HIV for it to show up on a test , anyone who has not had sex since before lockdown will get an accurate result .

Here's what you need to know.
Which charity issues the advice?
The Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) has published new guidance on managing the risk of Covid-19 during intercourse.
Accroding to research by the charity - due to the social distancing measures introduced, the number of people seeking new sexual partners has plummeted.
The organisation found that 84 per cent of people had abstained from sex outside of their immediate household because of the restrictions.
However, after several months of the lockdown and its partial easing, THT said it was no longer realistic to ask people to completely refrain from sex.
What is the latest guidance on intercourse during the pandemic?
In the latest guidance, the charity advised the best sexual partner during the pandemic is yourself or someone you live with.
The reccommended that masturbation, using sex toys or participating in phone or online sex are recommended as the safest options - as these can be done at a distance from others.
What about having sex with someone outside of your household?
If having sex with someone outside of your household, THT added that having one regular partner or limiting the number of sexual partners as well as taking other precautions.
Potential sexual partners should discuss Covid-19 and ask if they or anyone in their household have had symptoms or tested positive.
The charity also recommended not having sex if you feel unwell and to isolate if you have symptoms.
Sexual partners have also been advised to wash their hands for 20 seconds before and after sex to help reduce the risk.
'Don't kiss and wear a face mask during sex'
Due to the ways Covid-19 is spread, the charity further recommends not kissing and wearing a face covering during intercourse.
The charity also advises picking positions where participants are not face to face.
Sexually active people are also advised to use condoms as well as dams for activities such as rimming, as the Covid-19 virus is thought to be found in some bodily fluids.
What have medical experts said?
THT's medical director Dr Michael Brady said: "Sex is a very important part of life and asking people to avoid sex indefinitely is not realistic.
"That's why, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues, we all need to find ways to balance our need for sex and intimacy with the risks of the spread of Covid-19.
"We're clear that abstaining from sex is the best way to protect yourself from coronavirus.
"But we hope by issuing this advice we will help people to manage the risks of Covid-19 while also being able to have and enjoy sex."
'Get a STI test'
The charity has also stressed the importance of sexual health outside of the pandemic and also recommends getting an STI test before starting to have sex again.
THT previously said lockdown measures could have helped slow HIV transmission rates, creating an "incredible opportunity" to "break the chain" of HIV infection spread.
As it can take around a month after possible exposure to HIV for it to show up on a test, anyone who has not had sex since before lockdown will get an accurate result.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Pop Up Central to open in Kidderminster to help budding firms

A BUSINESS development centre is set to open at the former Argos store in the Kidderminster 's Swan Centre later this month to help fledgling firms .
Pop Up Central opens on August 29 and will offer budding businesses and entrepreneurs a space to work by offering units and office space at a low cost .
The scheme has seen Kidderminster pub owner Adam Wilcox team up with bosses at the shopping centre to make the project a reality and it is hoped the centre will provide a vital boost to the town 's economy during the post-coronavirus recovery .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ business development space for new and upcoming businesses to be able to get on the ladder .
`` The centre is designed to help new and growing businesses and offer the space and opportunity to build their business with super low costs , without the worry of utility costs and business rates . ''
Five units at the front of the building will open at the end of August , with a further 10 units set to open at the rear of the building on September 26 .
Letting is available for one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bid to help businesses , there are no utility costs or business rates .
Tenants will only have to pay rent and their own public liability insurance .
The project was initially planned as a market , but has now developed into a business centre to help new and growing firms develop in a bid to rejuvenate the local economy .
A number of business owners are already signed up and are set to begin moving in next week .
Work is now being carried out around the clock as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Up Central , which will be open on Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 5pm .
Any businesses interested in moving in to Pop Up Central should email the team to arrange a viewing at enquiries @ popupcentral.co.uk .

Pop Up Central opens on August 29 and will offer budding businesses and entrepreneurs a space to work by offering units and office space at a low cost.
The scheme has seen Kidderminster pub owner Adam Wilcox team up with bosses at the shopping centre to make the project a reality and it is hoped the centre will provide a vital boost to the town's economy during the post-coronavirus recovery.
Adam said: "It's a business development space for new and upcoming businesses to be able to get on the ladder.
"The centre is designed to help new and growing businesses and offer the space and opportunity to build their business with super low costs, without the worry of utility costs and business rates."
Five units at the front of the building will open at the end of August, with a further 10 units set to open at the rear of the building on September 26.
Letting is available for one, two and three-month occupation while, in a bid to help businesses, there are no utility costs or business rates. Tenants will only have to pay rent and their own public liability insurance.
The project was initially planned as a market, but has now developed into a business centre to help new and growing firms develop in a bid to rejuvenate the local economy.
A number of business owners are already signed up and are set to begin moving in next week.
Work is now being carried out around the clock as the former Argos store is transformed to Pop Up Central, which will be open on Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 5pm.
Any businesses interested in moving in to Pop Up Central should email the team to arrange a viewing at enquiries@popupcentral.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Policeman pleads not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving

A POLICE constable has denied causing the death of a motorist in a road crash while responding to an emergency call .
West Mercia Police constable Jamie Holloway appeared at Worcester Crown Court on Wednesday , and was told he will not face trial until August 2021 .
Defence barrister Matthew Butt QC and Crown counsel Duncan Atkinson QC appeared by video-link during the hearing , at which Holloway pleaded not guilty to causing the death of David Shaw by dangerous driving on the A449 near Hartlebury on May 28 , 2018 .
During a hearing at Kidderminster Magistrates ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the police car was being driven by the defendant in the execution of his duties .
Mr Shaw , 53 , died suffered multiple injuries in the crash and later died in hospital .
Holloway , 49 , from Bewdley , was charged after a two-year inquiry into the crash involving a BMW X5 police vehicle .
Granting him bail , Judge Nicolas Cartwright said : `` A trial has been fixed at Mr Butt 's convenience .
I am afraid it 's a long way away , the 9th of August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review on the 28th of May next year .
`` You are free to leave the dock on bail , as before . ''

West Mercia Police constable Jamie Holloway appeared at Worcester Crown Court on Wednesday, and was told he will not face trial until August 2021.
Defence barrister Matthew Butt QC and Crown counsel Duncan Atkinson QC appeared by video-link during the hearing, at which Holloway pleaded not guilty to causing the death of David Shaw by dangerous driving on the A449 near Hartlebury on May 28, 2018.
During a hearing at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court in July, prosecutor Alex Johnson said the police car was being driven by the defendant in the execution of his duties.
Mr Shaw, 53, died suffered multiple injuries in the crash and later died in hospital.
Holloway, 49, from Bewdley, was charged after a two-year inquiry into the crash involving a BMW X5 police vehicle.
Granting him bail, Judge Nicolas Cartwright said: "A trial has been fixed at Mr Butt's convenience. I am afraid it's a long way away, the 9th of August.
"There will be a pre-trial review on the 28th of May next year.
"You are free to leave the dock on bail, as before."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Hartlebury Castle to mark 75th Victory in Japan Day

HARTLEBURY Castle will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of Victory in Japan Day with a host of stalls and displays this weekend .
Visitors can relax in the Carriage Circle and browse the various stalls and displays commemorating VJ Day this Saturday , August 15 and Sunday , August 16 from 11am .
Guests can discover more about the role the UK played during the Second World War and the history of nurses during the period .
Wartime vehicles will be on show and on Sunday , a model US hospital will also be on display .
Visitors can bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Schooners Bar or a Bennet 's ice cream , before trying their luck in the Covid-friendly tombola and exploring the castle grounds and buildings .
Chantel Summerfield , activities and engagement officer at Hartlebury Castle , said : “ This is a very small scale event in acknowledgement of the current situation .
“ However , with VE Day falling in lockdown , we felt it was important to commemorate VJ Day and offer the community a chance to mark it with us .
`` We ’ re delighted that we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mark the day - the displays and vehicles are fascinating to see .
`` We ’ re hoping to recreate some of the street party atmosphere that we missed out on in May.
” Many of the staff will be dressed in 1940s style clothing for the day and visitors are invited to join in the fun .
“ We ’ d love to see our visitors getting into the spirit of the event and dress up as well , ” said Chantel .
To ensure visitors can enjoy the event safely , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be pre-booked .
Time slots can be booked by visiting hartleburycastle.com .
Payment will be taken upon arrival on the day .
Usual admission fees apply – £9.50 for adults , £8.50 for over-60s and students , £5.50 for children and free for under-fives .

Visitors can relax in the Carriage Circle and browse the various stalls and displays commemorating VJ Day this Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16 from 11am.
Guests can discover more about the role the UK played during the Second World War and the history of nurses during the period.
Wartime vehicles will be on show and on Sunday, a model US hospital will also be on display.
Visitors can bring along a picnic, enjoy a drink from Schooners Bar or a Bennet's ice cream, before trying their luck in the Covid-friendly tombola and exploring the castle grounds and buildings.
Chantel Summerfield, activities and engagement officer at Hartlebury Castle, said: “This is a very small scale event in acknowledgement of the current situation.
“However, with VE Day falling in lockdown, we felt it was important to commemorate VJ Day and offer the community a chance to mark it with us.
"We’re delighted that we’re able to welcome visitors again to mark the day - the displays and vehicles are fascinating to see.
"We’re hoping to recreate some of the street party atmosphere that we missed out on in May.”
Many of the staff will be dressed in 1940s style clothing for the day and visitors are invited to join in the fun.
“We’d love to see our visitors getting into the spirit of the event and dress up as well,” said Chantel.
To ensure visitors can enjoy the event safely, numbers are limited and arrival times must be pre-booked.
Time slots can be booked by visiting hartleburycastle.com. Payment will be taken upon arrival on the day.
Usual admission fees apply – £9.50 for adults, £8.50 for over-60s and students, £5.50 for children and free for under-fives.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--Highway Code: How to drive safely during floods and heavy rain

The Highway Code and the AA have published advice on how to drive safely during flooding and heavy rain .
As with the typical British weather , conditions can rapidly change - make driving a challenge .
Here is some simple advice for staying safe when the weather turns against you If you know that heavy rain is forecast , expect delays and give yourself more time to complete your journey .
Also check your car before you head off to ensure wipers and lights are all in good working order .
Pack a drink , phone and some wellies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
How to drive safely in heavy rain The first thing to do if you ’ re caught in heavy rain is to slow down and leave more space to the vehicle in front .
Stopping distances as much as double in the wet due to a reduction in grip so you need to give yourself more time and space .
Put on your headlights .
Heavy rain and spray reduces visibility for all road users .
It ’ s important to put your headlights on not only to aid your vision but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to other drivers .
The Highway Code says you must use your headlights when visibility is less than 100 metres .
Be careful about using fog lights , rear fogs can out-shine brake lights due to the glare and reflection from spray .
Be wary of puddles and standing water .
What might look like a minor puddle at the side of the road could be hiding a deep pothole or dislodged drain cover that could cause serious damage to your car .
Driving through even fairly shallow puddles could also cause aquaplaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overwhelmed by the volume of water and they completely lose contact with the road .
You ’ ll feel this as a lightening of the steering .
Avoid it if you can .
When faced with a seriously flooded road first check if there ’ s an alternative way round .
Even a long detour is preferable to tackling a dangerously flooded road .
If you have to drive through a flood first check how deep the water is .
Get out and check , preferably using a stick to gauge the depth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of flowing water could knock you off your feet , so take care .
According to the AA , just a foot of moving water will float a car and two feet of standing water is enough to do the same .
It recommends that you shouldn ’ t try driving through anything more than four inches .
If you ’ ve determined it ’ s safe to proceed , take it slowly and stick to the centre of the road .
The crown , as it ’ s known , is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ section of the flood .
Don ’ t stop .
Maintain a steady slow speed ( 3-4mph ) and don ’ t change gear .
If you need to , slip the clutch to keep revs up and speed down .
In an automatic try braking gently while maintaining pressure on the accelerator .
Moving slowly will help create a small bow wave which will stop the engine bay flooding .
Stopping could flood the engine bay or could allow water to flow into the exhaust pipe - both of which are bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and pedestrians .
You don ’ t want to soak pedestrians or potentially flood or damage anyone else ’ s car .
If you do get stuck , it ’ s usually safest to remain in the car and call for help .
Obviously , you need to use your common sense as to whether this is the best option depending on your circumstances .
Once you ’ re clear of the flood dry your brakes .
Apply them gently while driving slowly to remove the water from them .
Remember , modern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which are vulnerable to water damage .
Rushing through a puddle that forces water into the engine bay or wading into a deep flood could quickly cause expensive damage .
Every year the AA rescues almost 9,000 vehicles that have driven through or become stuck in flood water - with an estimated insurance bill of more than £34 million .

As with the typical British weather, conditions can rapidly change - make driving a challenge.
Here is some simple advice for staying safe when the weather turns against you
Be prepared
If you know that heavy rain is forecast, expect delays and give yourself more time to complete your journey.
Also check your car before you head off to ensure wipers and lights are all in good working order.
Pack a drink, phone and some wellies, in case you do get stuck.
How to drive safely in heavy rain
The first thing to do if you’re caught in heavy rain is to slow down and leave more space to the vehicle in front.
Stopping distances as much as double in the wet due to a reduction in grip so you need to give yourself more time and space.
Put on your headlights. Heavy rain and spray reduces visibility for all road users.
It’s important to put your headlights on not only to aid your vision but also to make your car more visible to other drivers.
The Highway Code says you must use your headlights when visibility is less than 100 metres.
Be careful about using fog lights, rear fogs can out-shine brake lights due to the glare and reflection from spray.
Be wary of puddles and standing water. What might look like a minor puddle at the side of the road could be hiding a deep pothole or dislodged drain cover that could cause serious damage to your car.
Driving through even fairly shallow puddles could also cause aquaplaning, where your tyres’ tread is overwhelmed by the volume of water and they completely lose contact with the road.
You’ll feel this as a lightening of the steering.
Driving through flood water
Avoid it if you can.
When faced with a seriously flooded road first check if there’s an alternative way round. Even a long detour is preferable to tackling a dangerously flooded road.
If you have to drive through a flood first check how deep the water is. Get out and check, preferably using a stick to gauge the depth.
Remember as little as six inches of flowing water could knock you off your feet, so take care.
According to the AA, just a foot of moving water will float a car and two feet of standing water is enough to do the same. It recommends that you shouldn’t try driving through anything more than four inches.
If you’ve determined it’s safe to proceed, take it slowly and stick to the centre of the road. The crown, as it’s known, is the highest point so should be the shallowest section of the flood.
Don’t stop. Maintain a steady slow speed (3-4mph) and don’t change gear. If you need to, slip the clutch to keep revs up and speed down. In an automatic try braking gently while maintaining pressure on the accelerator.
Moving slowly will help create a small bow wave which will stop the engine bay flooding. Stopping could flood the engine bay or could allow water to flow into the exhaust pipe - both of which are bad news.
Be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians. You don’t want to soak pedestrians or potentially flood or damage anyone else’s car.
If you do get stuck, it’s usually safest to remain in the car and call for help. Obviously, you need to use your common sense as to whether this is the best option depending on your circumstances.
Once you’re clear of the flood dry your brakes. Apply them gently while driving slowly to remove the water from them.
Remember, modern cars are full of complex electrical systems which are vulnerable to water damage.
Rushing through a puddle that forces water into the engine bay or wading into a deep flood could quickly cause expensive damage.
Every year the AA rescues almost 9,000 vehicles that have driven through or become stuck in flood water - with an estimated insurance bill of more than £34 million.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-08-12--PICTURES: Dramatic photos of lightning storm in Worcestershire

HERE are some incredible images of Tuesday night ’ s lightning storm over Worcestershire .
It is predicted by meteorologists that thunderstorms were likely again today ( Wednesday ) and Sunday , as well as the beginning of next week .
Rain is still predicted for every day this week .
The two vital ingredients for a thunderstorm are instability in the atmosphere and moisture , Grahame Madge at the Met Office said .
Thunderstorms take place when there is more humid air in the system , which is the case at the moment during the ongoing heatwave .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the progressive heating during the early part of the day , Mr Madge added .
It is estimated that a lightning strike hits somewhere on the Earth ’ s surface approximately 44 times every second , a total of nearly 1.4 billion lightning strikes every year .
Thunder is the sound produced by the rapid heating of air by a lightning strike , and lightning is a huge electrical discharge that flows between clouds , from a cloud to air , or from a cloud to the ground , according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is huge capacity to suddenly release lots of moisture “ incredibly intensively ” , Mr Madge said , describing the phenomenon as “ one of the most dramatic and most intense ” weather events that we get in the UK .

It is predicted by meteorologists that thunderstorms were likely again today (Wednesday) and Sunday, as well as the beginning of next week.
Rain is still predicted for every day this week.
The two vital ingredients for a thunderstorm are instability in the atmosphere and moisture, Grahame Madge at the Met Office said.
Thunderstorms take place when there is more humid air in the system, which is the case at the moment during the ongoing heatwave.
They tend to develop later in the afternoon after the progressive heating during the early part of the day, Mr Madge added.
It is estimated that a lightning strike hits somewhere on the Earth’s surface approximately 44 times every second, a total of nearly 1.4 billion lightning strikes every year.
Thunder is the sound produced by the rapid heating of air by a lightning strike, and lightning is a huge electrical discharge that flows between clouds, from a cloud to air, or from a cloud to the ground, according to the Met Office descriptions.
Within a thunderstorm there is huge capacity to suddenly release lots of moisture “incredibly intensively”, Mr Madge said, describing the phenomenon as “one of the most dramatic and most intense” weather events that we get in the UK.