kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-14--Wyre Forest District Council wants your views on budget cuts

A SURVEY has launched to gather residents ' views on radical cost-cutting plans announced by Wyre Forest District Council .
Proposals to decrease the overall size of the council in order to close a £2.7 million budget gap could see the council 's workforce reduced , services shared with other councils or outsourced to the private sector , and its headquarters at Wyre Forest House in Kidderminster sold .
The authority estimates it will run out of reserves by 2023 and says its financial situation has been made worse by the Covid-19 pandemic .
At a cabinet meeting on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Progressive Alliance agreed on the potential money saving measures , which they say will help to protect essential frontline services .
The proposals include commissioning a business case to dispose of all or part of Wyre Forest House and moving local assets and services to town councils .
They also include ending the Community Leadership Fund , which gives councillors an allowance to support local good causes , and increasing the district council 's part of the council tax bill by the maximum amount without triggering a referendum , as well as asking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of councillors with a view to reducing the amount from 2027 .
The council is now asking for comments from members of the public before more detailed budget proposals are drawn up .
Council leader Councillor Graham Ballinger said : “ The council had been making progress on reducing the funding gap .
In April this year , its general fund balances were up just over £1 million from the previous year and earmarked reserves were increased substantially to cover known liabilities .
`` But the council ’ s financial position has become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many years and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic putting more pressure on our finances , with extra costs and lost income not being covered in full by additional government funding .
We know we are going to have to make some big changes .
`` We can not continue to provide the same number or quality of services we have in the past .
`` We are looking to reduce the number of priorities we have in our corporate plan and would like to hear which of our priorities the public feel is most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Conservative Group have criticised the proposals , describing them as a `` plan to close more services '' .
They say the Progressive Alliance `` needs a detailed plan that doesn ’ t just include dumping services on to the local town councils ” and said the coronavirus pandemic `` should not be an excuse for cuts '' .
To fill out the survey before Thursday , December 10 , visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/budget2021 .

Proposals to decrease the overall size of the council in order to close a £2.7 million budget gap could see the council's workforce reduced, services shared with other councils or outsourced to the private sector, and its headquarters at Wyre Forest House in Kidderminster sold.
The authority estimates it will run out of reserves by 2023 and says its financial situation has been made worse by the Covid-19 pandemic.
At a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, November 10, members of the Progressive Alliance agreed on the potential money saving measures, which they say will help to protect essential frontline services.
The proposals include commissioning a business case to dispose of all or part of Wyre Forest House and moving local assets and services to town councils.
They also include ending the Community Leadership Fund, which gives councillors an allowance to support local good causes, and increasing the district council's part of the council tax bill by the maximum amount without triggering a referendum, as well as asking the Boundary Commission to review the number of councillors with a view to reducing the amount from 2027.
The council is now asking for comments from members of the public before more detailed budget proposals are drawn up.
Council leader Councillor Graham Ballinger said: “The council had been making progress on reducing the funding gap. In April this year, its general fund balances were up just over £1 million from the previous year and earmarked reserves were increased substantially to cover known liabilities.
"But the council’s financial position has become worse with government grant funding reducing over many years and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic putting more pressure on our finances, with extra costs and lost income not being covered in full by additional government funding. We know we are going to have to make some big changes.
"We cannot continue to provide the same number or quality of services we have in the past.
"We are looking to reduce the number of priorities we have in our corporate plan and would like to hear which of our priorities the public feel is most important to them."
Opposition councillors from the Conservative Group have criticised the proposals, describing them as a "plan to close more services".
They say the Progressive Alliance "needs a detailed plan that doesn’t just include dumping services on to the local town councils” and said the coronavirus pandemic "should not be an excuse for cuts".
To fill out the survey before Thursday, December 10, visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/budget2021.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-14--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles: What's available from Sunday, November 15?

The latest items hitting the shelves in the middle of Aldi and Lidl on Sunday , November 15 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ retailers .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each @ @ @ @ @ Aldi are selling festive baking products as part of their Special Buys set of deals @ @ @ @ @ Maker for £14.99 each .
Plus , an Ambiano Bread Maker for £49.99 each .
@ @ @ @ @ this week , the supermarket chain also have a range of products for Christmas baking @ @ @ @ @ 3-in-1 Sandwich Toaster for £15.99 each .

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are selling festive baking products as part of their Special Buys set of deals.
These include:
An Ambiano Red Churro Maker for £14.99 each.
A Festive Silver Cookie Cutter 5 Pack for £2.99 each.
Plus, an Ambiano Bread Maker for £49.99 each.
For more details, visit: Aldi.co.uk.
Lidl
In the middle of Lidl this week, the supermarket chain also have a range of products for Christmas baking.
These include:
A Silvercrest Stand Mixer for £49.99 each.
A Ernesto Christmas Tin Set for £3.99 each.
Plus, a Silvercrest 3-in-1 Sandwich Toaster for £15.99 each.
For more details, visit Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-14--How to have fun at home in lockdown - and and how much it costs!

PEOPLE are forking out thousands of pounds for their perfect fun way of coping with lockdown – a games room .
Some , like the West Midlands family who have designed theirs as part of a big house renovation project , have recycled and kept to a strict budget .
But others have spent tens of thousands kitting out their games rooms or ‘ man caves ’ with pool tables , arcade machines , giant TVs , dartboards and bars .
One man says he spent more than £30,000 equipping his den .
Demand for such equipment has ‘ gone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this weekend will be decisive in a competition to find out who has Britain ’ s best games room .
But if you want to put the fun into lockdown – as best you can – what do you need and what would it cost ?
Apparently six in ten games rooms have a pool table as a centrepiece and another vital ingredient is a bar .
But there are plenty of options , so here ’ s our guide to what it costs and what ’ s ‘ on trend ’ if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own fun palace : Most popular and the price range : From a basic table you can move on up to dual purpose ones that transform into table tennis tables or dining tables , to upmarket bespoke tables , often made in Italy From laptop machines which play through the TV , to the stand-up ones you associate with arcades .
You can get original retro machines .
Some also come with built-in fridge Retro ones are rare , new ones can play CDs , be digital or play vinyl if you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cheaper , modern ones more expensive , including ones so modern they have Marvel Avengers themes .
The West Midlands finalists in the Best Games Room competition , Aimee and Rob , definitely did not set out to lavish loads of money on a ‘ man cave.
’ Instead Aimee has carefully constructed a cosy and stylish family room while Rob has carefully restored and recycled to keep costs down .
The couple , in their 30s , inherited a snooker table when they bought the house in Kinver , and selling that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The couple have been working to a budget for their renovation work .
Win or lose , the room has been a Godsend for the family through lockdown .
It has a bar , darts board , pool table that can also transform into a table tennis table or dining table , widescreen TV , and a few other home comforts that make it perfect for hunkering down in .
And husband Rob has also turned it into a home office when he has been working from home .
And the couple ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with their Saturday film nights and much more .
“ We started on the basement because we could not do the other rooms until major plumbing issues had been sorted out , ” said Aimee .
The timing happened to be perfect .
They moved in last September , had the games room done in time for a New Year ’ s party , then had it to escape to during lockdown .
“ We have a few friends who are desperate for the second lockdown to be over they so they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple are still in the process of renovating their ‘ dream home ’ and Aimee ’ s design style and progress can be followed on an Instagram account @ the.compa.house .
So far she has 2,000 followers .
The competition is run by Home Leisure Direct , a Bristol-based firm who supply games equipment and who say their business has ‘ gone crazy ’ since lockdown .
To vote for Aimee go to https : //www.homeleisuredirect.com/games-room-vote/

Some, like the West Midlands family who have designed theirs as part of a big house renovation project, have recycled and kept to a strict budget.
But others have spent tens of thousands kitting out their games rooms or ‘man caves’ with pool tables, arcade machines, giant TVs, dartboards and bars.
One man says he spent more than £30,000 equipping his den.
Demand for such equipment has ‘gone crazy’ since the first lockdown and this weekend will be decisive in a competition to find out who has Britain’s best games room.
But if you want to put the fun into lockdown – as best you can – what do you need and what would it cost?
Apparently six in ten games rooms have a pool table as a centrepiece and another vital ingredient is a bar.
But there are plenty of options, so here’s our guide to what it costs and what’s ‘on trend’
if you want to try to create your own fun palace:
Most popular and the price range:
1, Pool Tables: low £1,000 – high £50,000
From a basic table you can move on up to dual purpose ones that transform into table tennis tables or dining tables, to upmarket bespoke tables, often made in Italy
2, Arcade machines: Low £270 – high £2,000+
From laptop machines which play through the TV, to the stand-up ones you associate with arcades. You can get original retro machines. Some also come with built-in fridge
3, Juke box: low £5,000 – high £12,000+
Retro ones are rare, new ones can play CDs, be digital or play vinyl if you have kept your collection.
4, Pinball machines: low £3,500 – high £11,000+
Reconditioned machines are cheaper, modern ones more expensive, including ones so modern they have Marvel Avengers themes.
The West Midlands finalists in the Best Games Room competition, Aimee and Rob, definitely did not set out to lavish loads of money on a ‘man cave.’
Instead Aimee has carefully constructed a cosy and stylish family room while Rob has carefully restored and recycled to keep costs down.
The couple, in their 30s, inherited a snooker table when they bought the house in Kinver, and selling that helped pay for the pool table. The couple have been working to a budget for their renovation work.
Win or lose, the room has been a Godsend for the family through lockdown.
It has a bar, darts board, pool table that can also transform into a table tennis table or dining table, widescreen TV, and a few other home comforts that make it perfect for hunkering down in.
And husband Rob has also turned it into a home office when he has been working from home.
And the couple’s two young daughters reap the rewards with their Saturday
film nights and much more.
“We started on the basement because we could not do the other rooms until major plumbing issues had been sorted out,” said Aimee.
The timing happened to be perfect. They moved in last September, had the games room done in time for a New Year’s party, then had it to escape to during lockdown.
“We have a few friends who are desperate for the second lockdown to be over they so they can come back and enjoy it.”
The couple are still in the process of renovating their ‘dream home’ and Aimee’s design style and progress can be followed on an Instagram account @the.compa.house. So far she has 2,000 followers.
The competition is run by Home Leisure Direct, a Bristol-based firm who supply games equipment and who say their business has ‘gone crazy’ since lockdown.
To vote for Aimee go to https://www.homeleisuredirect.com/games-room-vote/
But be quick, voting ends tomorrow (Sunday)


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Bewdley tech firm hit by flooding now thriving during pandemic

A TECHNOLOGY firm based in Bewdley has bounced back after its offices were severely flooded in February and , thanks to business booming during the pandemic , has just taken on new staff .
Inturi Technology Solutions , now based at Bewdley Business Centre , has seen demand for their services rise exponentially since the coronavirus outbreak as more people started working from home .
CEO Clare Kays said : `` We were flooded severely in Bewdley in both February and March and our riverside location , although historically unaffected , was this year .
`` The Environment Agency would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us to look for alternative options , so we had two months without a base but were very fortunate to secure larger premises at Bewdley Business Centre which have since proved to be more advantageous .
`` It was a disconcerting time for many of us . ''
Inturi is a Microsoft technology partner and was able to help companies adapt quickly to remote working and took on several new clients during the first lockdown .
The company can licence , install and configure Microsoft Dynamics 365 for both online and on-premises installations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in demand for tech solutions , Inturi has hired two new employees - marketing manager Zoe Foster , who moved back to the area from Oxford , and local resident Callum Jones .
Clare added : `` The damage was extensive to our office from the flooding so we are so proud to take on new employees this autumn .
”

Inturi Technology Solutions, now based at Bewdley Business Centre, has seen demand for their services rise exponentially since the coronavirus outbreak as more people started working from home.
CEO Clare Kays said: "We were flooded severely in Bewdley in both February and March and our riverside location, although historically unaffected, was this year.
"The Environment Agency would not let us back into building forcing us to look for alternative options, so we had two months without a base but were very fortunate to secure larger premises at Bewdley Business Centre which have since proved to be more advantageous.
"It was a disconcerting time for many of us."
Inturi is a Microsoft technology partner and was able to help companies adapt quickly to remote working and took on several new clients during the first lockdown.
The company can licence, install and configure Microsoft Dynamics 365 for both online and on-premises installations.
To help cope with the surge in demand for tech solutions, Inturi has hired two new employees - marketing manager Zoe Foster, who moved back to the area from Oxford, and local resident Callum Jones.
Clare added: "The damage was extensive to our office from the flooding so we are so proud to take on new employees this autumn.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Car sets on fire in Birmingham Road, Kidderminster

Firefighters were called to the scene on Birmingham Road at 8.42am this morning ( Sunday November 15 ) .
Hereford @ @ @ @ @ : `` 8:42 @ HWFireWFhub crew attended a car fire on Birmingham Road in Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ and incident left with @ WMerciaPolice . ''
08:42 @ HWFireWFhub crew attended a car @ @ @ @ @ Kidderminster .
Fire was extinguished and incident left with @ WMerciaPolice .
— HWFireControl ( @ @ @ @ @ , 2020

Firefighters were called to the scene on Birmingham Road at 8.42am this morning (Sunday November 15).
Hereford and Worcester Fire Control tweeted: "8:42 @HWFireWFhub crew attended a car fire on Birmingham Road in Kidderminster.
"Fire was extinguished and incident left with @WMerciaPolice."
08:42 @HWFireWFhub crew attended a car fire on Birmingham Road in Kidderminster. Fire was extinguished and incident left with @WMerciaPolice. — HWFireControl (@HWFireControl) November 15, 2020


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Before the court: 72-year-old stalker from Kidderminster fined

A WOMAN from Kidderminster was ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work after she drove a car while she was over double the legal alcohol limit and while disqualified from driving .
Lorna Smith , of Jubilee Drive , denied being over the drink drive limit , driving without insurance and driving while disqualified from holding a licence , but was found guilty of all three charges .
When she was stopped in Blackwell Street on August 2 , Smith had 80 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath .
The legal limit is 35 .
Appearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , November 11 , the 33-year-old was ordered to pay a total of £395 in costs .
She was also disqualified from driving for four years and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months .
On Tuesday , November 10 , a man from West Bromwich was fined for driving in Stourport while under the influence of drugs .
Karl Stirling , aged 58 , of Austen Walk , was caught in possession of a quantity of cocaine in Stourport on April 10 this year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty to driving a BMW in Dunley Road while there was Benzoylecgonine and Delta-9-THC in his system .
Stirling was fined £280 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £32 .
He was also banned from driving for 18 months .
In another case , an elderly man from Kidderminster was fined for causing nearly £2,000 worth of damage to a car .
Keith Cheshire , of Neville Avenue , pleaded guilty to damaging a Vauxhall Insignia belonging to Amada UK .
The incident happened in Stourport in June and caused £1,916 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cheshire also admitted pursuing a course of conduct which amounted to the stalking of a woman in Kidderminster by loitering outside her home address on several occasions because he thought she was in a new relationship .
The 72-year-old was fined £235 and ordered to pay compensation totalling £1,796.70 , plus a £34 victim surcharge .
Magistrates put in place a restraining order , prohibiting Cheshire from contacting the woman he stalked or from entering the road where she lives within the next year .
In another case at court that day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire to a woman 's car .
Joshua Turner , aged 26 , of Homfray Road , pleaded guilty to making the threat on October 15 .
Magistrates made a community order , requiring Turner to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work .
He must also pay a £95 victim surcharge on top of £185 in court costs .

Lorna Smith, of Jubilee Drive, denied being over the drink drive limit, driving without insurance and driving while disqualified from holding a licence, but was found guilty of all three charges.
When she was stopped in Blackwell Street on August 2, Smith had 80 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.
Appearing at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, November 11, the 33-year-old was ordered to pay a total of £395 in costs.
She was also disqualified from driving for four years and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months.
On Tuesday, November 10, a man from West Bromwich was fined for driving in Stourport while under the influence of drugs.
Karl Stirling, aged 58, of Austen Walk, was caught in possession of a quantity of cocaine in Stourport on April 10 this year.
He admitted the offence and also pleaded guilty to driving a BMW in Dunley Road while there was Benzoylecgonine and Delta-9-THC in his system.
Stirling was fined £280 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £32.
He was also banned from driving for 18 months.
In another case, an elderly man from Kidderminster was fined for causing nearly £2,000 worth of damage to a car.
Keith Cheshire, of Neville Avenue, pleaded guilty to damaging a Vauxhall Insignia belonging to Amada UK. The incident happened in Stourport in June and caused £1,916 worth of damage to the vehicle.
Cheshire also admitted pursuing a course of conduct which amounted to the stalking of a woman in Kidderminster by loitering outside her home address on several occasions because he thought she was in a new relationship.
The 72-year-old was fined £235 and ordered to pay compensation totalling £1,796.70, plus a £34 victim surcharge.
Magistrates put in place a restraining order, prohibiting Cheshire from contacting the woman he stalked or from entering the road where she lives within the next year.
In another case at court that day, a Kidderminster man admitted threatening to set fire to a woman's car.
Joshua Turner, aged 26, of Homfray Road, pleaded guilty to making the threat on October 15.
Magistrates made a community order, requiring Turner to carry out 80 hours of unpaid work.
He must also pay a £95 victim surcharge on top of £185 in court costs.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Catalytic converter thefts soar during lockdown: These cars are most at risk

New figures have revealed a 'huge increase ' in the number of catalytic converter thefts across the UK since June .
The latest investigation by insurance giant Admiral revealed that thieves stealing the precious metals found in catalytic converters in some cars were selling them on for a profit .
Lorna Connelly , head of claims at Admiral , said : “ At the beginning of 2020 we saw an increase in the number of catalytic converter thefts in the UK , with 400 claims in January alone .
`` However , with more people staying at home due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of thefts drop , with just 52 claims in April .
`` Unfortunately , these types of thefts are dramatically rising in number again , as restrictions in some parts of the country have eased , and it ’ s clear they are fast approaching pre-lockdown rates .
“ The increase since June has been significant , and shows thieves are back to stealing the precious metals found in catalytic converters in some cars , which are then being sold on for a profit .
`` Palladium , platinum , and rhodium found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to thieves .
Currently , palladium is even more valuable than gold , rhodium is worth almost two thirds of the value of gold , and platinum is around half the value of gold . ''
A catalytic converter makes up part of the exhaust system ; it processes the emissions from a combustion engine into less harmful gases .
As the exhaust is exposed beneath most cars , they ’ re often easy picking for thieves .
Which cars are most at risk of catalytic converter thefts ?
According to Admiral , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their catalytic converters contain a higher concentration of precious metals and are generally less corroded .
Lorna added : `` Our data shows the most susceptible cars to catalytic converter theft are the Honda Jazz , Toyota Prius , Toyota Auris and Lexus RX .
“ Year on year we ’ ve seen an increase in this type of theft so despite the drop in the number of stolen catalytic converters earlier in the year , it looks like thefts are now rising again at a worrying rate .
`` Regardless of which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything you can to make sure it ’ s parked in a safe and secure place , especially at night , to reduce the risk of your car being affected.
” How to protect your car from catalytic converter thieves To help protect your car from catalytic converter thieves , police forces across the country have issued the following advice : • Park in a locked garage or in a well-lit , densely populated area .
• Park close to fences , walls or kerbs with the exhaust being closest to the barrier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult .
• Avoid mounting your car on the kerb to park as it gives thieves easy access .
• If your catalytic converter ’ s bolted on ask your local garage to weld the bolts to make it more difficult to remove .
• Consider a ‘ cage clamp ’ which locks around the converter .
• Speak to your car dealership about a tilt sensor that activates the alarm if someone tries to jack up your vehicle .
• If you see someone acting suspiciously under a vehicle , report it @ @ @ @

The latest investigation by insurance giant Admiral revealed that thieves stealing the precious metals found in catalytic converters in some cars were selling them on for a profit.
What did Admiral find?
Lorna Connelly, head of claims at Admiral, said: “At the beginning of 2020 we saw an increase in the number of catalytic converter thefts in the UK, with 400 claims in January alone.
"However, with more people staying at home due to lockdown restrictions, we saw the number of thefts drop, with just 52 claims in April.
"Unfortunately, these types of thefts are dramatically rising in number again, as restrictions in some parts of the country have eased, and it’s clear they are fast approaching pre-lockdown rates.
“The increase since June has been significant, and shows thieves are back to stealing the precious metals found in catalytic converters in some cars, which are then being sold on for a profit.
"Palladium, platinum, and rhodium found in the converters are worth a fortune to thieves. Currently, palladium is even more valuable than gold, rhodium is worth almost two thirds of the value of gold, and platinum is around half the value of gold."
What is a catalytic converter?
A catalytic converter makes up part of the exhaust system; it processes the emissions from a combustion engine into less harmful gases. As the exhaust is exposed beneath most cars, they’re often easy picking for thieves.
Which cars are most at risk of catalytic converter thefts?
According to Admiral, hybrid cars are targeted the most because their catalytic converters contain a higher concentration of precious metals and are generally less corroded.
Lorna added: "Our data shows the most susceptible cars to catalytic converter theft are the Honda Jazz, Toyota Prius, Toyota Auris and Lexus RX.
“Year on year we’ve seen an increase in this type of theft so despite the drop in the number of stolen catalytic converters earlier in the year, it looks like thefts are now rising again at a worrying rate.
"Regardless of which car you own, you should do everything you can to make sure it’s parked in a safe and secure place, especially at night, to reduce the risk of your car being affected.”
How to protect your car from catalytic converter thieves
To help protect your car from catalytic converter thieves, police forces across the country have issued the following advice:


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--How do our Royals celebrate Christmas?

How do our Royals celebrate Christmas?

GET an insight into what a right Royal Christmas is like next month with members of a local arts society covering the Black Country and north Worcestershire .
The Arts Society Stourbridge actually covers a very wide area – including Kidderminster , Bewdley , Bromsgrove , Halesowen and Dudley , as well as Stourbridge itself .
After having to abandon its normal monthly meetings because of Covid it has relaunched using the wonders of Zoom , and is now reaching even more people with an interest in the arts .
The 300-plus members have begun a new season of entertaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ topics such as Raphael – Artist and Architect ; The Elgin Marbles ; Modern Art and the Old Masters ; The Genius of Beethoven – and more .
The Storubridge Society Stourbridge was formed more than twenty years ago and is part of worldwide organisation .
“ We miss getting together for our events , ” says Chairman , Ann Norgate , “ but Zoom is bringing our members high-quality presentations on the arts , with brilliant images , in the comfort and safety of their own homes.
” Ann says the Society @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the perfect way for people to ‘ sample what we have to offer , with a free introductory lecture.
’ Next lecture is on December 1 and will be given by Roger Askew and looks at how the British royal family has celebrated Christmas down the ages – from William the Conqueror to Margaret Thatcher ’ s washing up gloves gift to the present Queen !
For more info go to www.theartssocietystourbridge.org .

The Arts Society Stourbridge actually covers a very wide area – including Kidderminster, Bewdley, Bromsgrove, Halesowen and Dudley, as well as Stourbridge itself.
And it’s back.
After having to abandon its normal monthly meetings because of Covid it has relaunched using the wonders of Zoom, and is now reaching even more people with an interest in the arts.
The 300-plus members have begun a new season of entertaining and in-depth talks and presentations, covering topics such as Raphael – Artist and Architect; The Elgin Marbles; Modern Art and the Old Masters; The Genius of Beethoven – and more.
The Storubridge Society Stourbridge was formed more than twenty years ago and is part of worldwide organisation.
“We miss getting together for our events,” says Chairman, Ann Norgate, “but Zoom is bringing our members high-quality presentations on the arts, with brilliant images, in the comfort and safety of their own homes.”
Ann says the Society is looking for new members and Zoom is the perfect way for people to ‘sample what we have to offer, with a free introductory lecture.’
Next lecture is on December 1 and will be given by Roger Askew and looks at how the British royal family has celebrated Christmas down the ages – from William the Conqueror to Margaret Thatcher’s washing up gloves gift to the present Queen!
For more info go to www.theartssocietystourbridge.org .


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Revealed: The star-studded cast for our farming awards

THE full celebrity cast list for our annual farming awards can at last be revealed .
The awards ceremony is taking the form of a digital event this year because of Covid and a special broadcast will be aired on November 26 .
To host the evening we have experienced broadcaster Adam Henson , the regular presenter on the BBC ’ s Countryfile farming programme and a farmer himself in the Cotswolds .
A special guest for the evening will be the current President of the National Farmers Union , Minette Batters , who will have a topical message for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially relevant given the Brexit negotiations and discussions about food standards in the future .
Regional guests include Bill Sewell , who runs the Bill ’ s Kitchens in Hereford and Ludlow and is a nationally respected food author .
And the local ‘ flavour ’ is increased by Mark Green & Sean Mason , the two men behind the Two Farmers Crisps brand with their artisan snacks based on regional produce .
Throughout the broadcast other celebrities will be making appearances with special words of encouragement for the farmers and agricultural workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Worcestershire , Herefordshire and Gloucestershire who have battled to overcome the challenges of Covid and kept the supermarkets of Britain stocked and the plates of British families full .
Making up the celebrity list is : Ben Fogle ( English broadcaster , writer and adventurer ) ; Michael Chakraverty ( 2019 Great British Bake Off Finalists ) ; Stu Deeley ( MasterChef : The Professionals 2019 winner ) ; Steven Carter-Bailey ( Winner of the Great New Year ’ s Bake Off 2019 and Finalist in series 8 of The Great British Bake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Actor ) ; Arthur Smith ( Comedian , Presenter , Actor , Writer ) ; James Haskell ( Former England , Lions , Northampton Saint and Wasps rugby union player ) ; Rebecca Adlington ( OBE Olympic swimmer ) ; Shirley Ballas ( Head judge on the BBC TV show , Strictly Come Dancing ) and last , but not least , Sian Lloyd ( Welsh television presenter and meteorologist .
The Sponsors of this year ’ s awards are : TH White Group , Duchy of Cornwall , Countryside Restoration Trust , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Avara Foods , Cupid Events , Herefordshire & Ludlow College , Hereford College of Arts , Belmont Farm & Equine Vets x 2 .
For more information check out the awards section of our website

It includes television celebrities, sports stars and well-known regional personalities.
The awards ceremony is taking the form of a digital event this year because of Covid and a special broadcast will be aired on November 26.
To host the evening we have experienced broadcaster Adam Henson, the regular presenter on the BBC’s Countryfile farming programme and a farmer himself in the Cotswolds.
A special guest for the evening will be the current President of the National Farmers Union, Minette Batters, who will have a topical message for the region’s farmers which is especially relevant given the Brexit negotiations and discussions about food standards in the future.
Regional guests include Bill Sewell, who runs the Bill’s Kitchens in Hereford and Ludlow and is a nationally respected food author.
And the local ‘flavour’ is increased by Mark Green & Sean Mason, the two men behind the Two Farmers Crisps brand with their artisan snacks based on regional produce.
Throughout the broadcast other celebrities will be making appearances with special words of encouragement for the farmers and agricultural workers and business across the three counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire who have battled to overcome the challenges of Covid and kept the supermarkets of Britain stocked and the plates of British families full.
Making up the celebrity list is: Ben Fogle (English broadcaster, writer and adventurer); Michael Chakraverty (2019 Great British Bake Off Finalists); Stu Deeley (MasterChef: The Professionals 2019 winner ); Steven Carter-Bailey (Winner of the Great New Year’s Bake Off 2019 and Finalist in series 8 of The Great British Bake Off); Clive Mantle (English Actor); Arthur Smith (Comedian, Presenter, Actor, Writer); James Haskell (Former England, Lions, Northampton Saint and Wasps rugby union player); Rebecca Adlington (OBE Olympic swimmer); Shirley Ballas (Head judge on the BBC TV show, Strictly Come Dancing) and last, but not least, Sian Lloyd (Welsh television presenter and meteorologist.
The Sponsors of this year’s awards are: TH White Group, Duchy of Cornwall, Countryside Restoration Trust, MFG Solicitors, Western Power Distribution, Avara Foods, Cupid Events, Herefordshire & Ludlow College, Hereford College of Arts, Belmont Farm & Equine Vets x 2.
For more information check out the awards section of our website


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--How to book an appointment at the new Covid-19 test centre in Kidderminster

A NEW walk-through coronavirus testing facility is now open in Kidderminster for those who have symptoms .
Appointments at the site , located at the Kidderminster Harriers ' Stadium Close Car Park , started on Friday , November 13 .
Testing is only available for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature , a new continuous cough , or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste .
Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 .
Those being tested will be required to follow public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not travelling by taxi or public transport , practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout , including while travelling to and from the testing centre .
Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through test site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely , with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities .
The site is part of the largest network of testing facilities created in British history , which has the capacity to process more than 500,000 tests a day and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , including 79 drive-through sites , 303 walk-through sites , 258 mobile units , home testing and satellite kits and five Lighthouse laboratories .
Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them trace their contacts .
This will help to identify who they may have been in close contact with , protecting others from further transmission .
Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace , asking them to stay at home for 14 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms .

Appointments at the site, located at the Kidderminster Harriers' Stadium Close Car Park, started on Friday, November 13.
Testing is only available for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
Those being tested will be required to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.
Anyone attending an appointment at a walk-through test site will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities.
The site is part of the largest network of testing facilities created in British history, which has the capacity to process more than 500,000 tests a day and includes more than 600 sites across the UK, including 79 drive-through sites, 303 walk-through sites, 258 mobile units, home testing and satellite kits and five Lighthouse laboratories.
Anyone testing positive for the virus in England will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace to help them trace their contacts. This will help to identify who they may have been in close contact with, protecting others from further transmission.
Close contacts of those testing positive will also hear from NHS Test and Trace, asking them to stay at home for 14 days to prevent them from unknowingly spreading the virus.
They will be advised to also book a test if they develop symptoms.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--Wanted man with ties to Kidderminster arrested

POLICE have thanked the public for sharing their appeal to locate a wanted man with Kidderminster ties .
Darren McCarthy @ @ @ @ @ the town , Worcester and Birmingham , has now been arrested .
The 32-year-old is @ @ @ @ @ harm .
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said : `` Thank you everyone who @ @ @ @ @ Darren McCarthy .
`` A 32-year-old man was arrested this morning ( 16 November ) @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Darren McCarthy who has connections to the the town, Worcester and Birmingham, has now been arrested.
The 32-year-old is accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: "Thank you everyone who shared our appeal to find Darren McCarthy.
"A 32-year-old man was arrested this morning (16 November) and is in police custody."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--Worcestershire hit by worst weekend Covid death toll since April

TWELVE new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded in Worcestershire 's hospitals this weekend – the most since the peak of the pandemic in April .
NHS England figures on November 14 and 15 reported nine deaths on the Saturday and a further three on Sunday , across the county 's hospitals .
However , this was far off the worst weekend death toll of the pandemic so far , on April 18 and 19 , when 30 fatalities were recorded .
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates .
In recent weeks , there has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days .
Worcester 's MP , Robin Walker , said the news of 12 recorded deaths at the weekend was “ troubling ” , and he urged residents to do what they can to contain the spread of the virus in the county .
“ It is definitely worrying , and shows why we had to take further action and re-introduce nationwide lockdown measures , '' said the Conservative MP .
“ Very sadly , when hospital cases rise , so do deaths , so it is very concerning and it does seem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one.
” Mr Walker said it was vitally important the people of Worcester and the surrounding area continue to follow the lockdown restrictions .
He added : “ There has been a tendency to think that because the cases tend to largely affect the elderly more , that we should only protect them , but unfortunately , when it affects others , it finds it ’ s way back to the elderly .
“ My thoughts are with all those who have lost someone and we have to make sure when these national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the lower tiers ( of restrictions ) .
” The death toll coincides with the news that the number of Covid patients in county hospitals has reached levels not seen since May .
A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5 , according to the latest NHS figures .
Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator .
The last time the number of occupied beds was that high among Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was in May .
Figures show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients being admitted to hospital towards the end of October , with eight people taken onto wards in the last two weeks .
Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4 .
An average of 21 beds were occupied by Covid patients throughout October – around three per cent of all beds .
The number of beds occupied by Covid patients was in single figures from the first week of July until late September , before hitting 10 beds on September 29 .
A total of 20 beds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on October 18 before reaching 50 beds on October 31 .
The highest average number of hospital beds occupied by Covid patients during a month in Worcestershire was 110 in April .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Wyre Forest Ward .

NHS England figures on November 14 and 15 reported nine deaths on the Saturday and a further three on Sunday, across the county's hospitals.
However, this was far off the worst weekend death toll of the pandemic so far, on April 18 and 19, when 30 fatalities were recorded.
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates. In recent weeks, there has been either zero or one death reported most days.
Worcester's MP, Robin Walker, said the news of 12 recorded deaths at the weekend was “troubling”, and he urged residents to do what they can to contain the spread of the virus in the county.
“It is definitely worrying, and shows why we had to take further action and re-introduce nationwide lockdown measures," said the Conservative MP.
“Very sadly, when hospital cases rise, so do deaths, so it is very concerning and it does seem the decision on lockdown was the right one.”
Mr Walker said it was vitally important the people of Worcester and the surrounding area continue to follow the lockdown restrictions.
He added: “There has been a tendency to think that because the cases tend to largely affect the elderly more, that we should only protect them, but unfortunately, when it affects others, it finds it’s way back to the elderly.
“My thoughts are with all those who have lost someone and we have to make sure when these national restrictions are lifted, that Worcestershire remains in the lower tiers (of restrictions).”
The death toll coincides with the news that the number of Covid patients in county hospitals has reached levels not seen since May.
A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5, according to the latest NHS figures.
Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator.
The last time the number of occupied beds was that high among Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was in May.
Figures show there was a sharp increase in Covid patients being admitted to hospital towards the end of October, with eight people taken onto wards in the last two weeks.
Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4.
An average of 21 beds were occupied by Covid patients throughout October – around three per cent of all beds.
The number of beds occupied by Covid patients was in single figures from the first week of July until late September, before hitting 10 beds on September 29.
A total of 20 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on October 18 before reaching 50 beds on October 31.
The highest average number of hospital beds occupied by Covid patients during a month in Worcestershire was 110 in April.
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.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--Care homes: Matt Hancock to allow all visits by Christmas

All care homes will be allowed to have visitors by Christmas , Health Secretary Matt Hancock has pledged .
With the introduction of rapid testing within weeks , visitors are expected to be allowed into care homes by next month .
Mr Hancock said rapid tests for visitors – currently being trialled in Devon and Cornwall – should allow rollout across England within weeks .
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson uploaded a video to Twitter saying he was “ bursting with antibodies ” and “ fit as a butcher ’ s dog ” despite needing to self-isolate after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And Public Health England ’ s head of immunisation said at least half the population could need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to “ really see an impact on spread within communities ” .
In a round of morning broadcast interviews , Mr Hancock stressed the final decision whether to allow visits rested with individual care homes and local councils , but said : “ I hope to have that in place for all care homes by Christmas.
” He listened as one man described how visits to his wife ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restricted , impacting on her dementia .
Speaking on BBC Radio 4 ’ s Today programme , Michael Blackstad told how coronavirus guidelines at his wife Trisha ’ s care home was making her situation a “ nightmare ” .
He said his wife ’ s Alzheimer ’ s had become “ very far advanced ” but the only visitors she was allowed were care home staff dressed in personal protective equipment .
Mr Blackstad , who has Parkinson ’ s , said : “ She was always a lively articulate person .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ she fidgets , her head is bowed .
“ She ’ s basically got this form of dementia which means she doesn ’ t like sitting down .
“ That makes it a nightmare being in a single room – it is like being stuck in a hotel room for three weeks without being able to go out .
It ’ s just awful.
” Mr Blackstad said the care home was planning to put in a visiting facility that he described as being “ rather like a prison ” , with Perspex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and speakerphones , but only once there were no more Covid cases at the centre .
Responding to the interview , Mr Hancock described the situation as “ heartbreaking ” and “ really difficult ” .
He added : “ I know this from personal circumstances as well in terms of members of my own family … who are in the same sort of situation .
It is very difficult .
“ The problem is that we know when this virus gets into care homes , we know that people in care homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runs rife , and so we both need to protect people from the virus but also do that in as a humane a way as possible , and we know the impact on people ’ s health , let alone everything else , on not being able to see visitors.
” Mr Hancock said he hoped to have testing for care home visitors in place for all care homes in England “ by Christmas ” , with the pilot currently taking place in 20 homes .
But he admitted there were challenges given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ private sector .
Mr Hancock , who is due to host a Downing Street press conference later , said it was “ too early ” to determine whether the lockdown measures in England would end after December 2 .
Asked whether the lockdown would simply be “ rebadged ” after the deadline , he said : “ You tempt me , but it is too early to say I ’ m afraid .
“ We ’ ve seen in the last week that there is still a very high number of cases but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this national lockdown .
“ That is our goal , everybody has a part to play in making that happen of course , following the social distancing rules and isolating when you need to , which is the critical thing.
” He said one of the main goals now was to use the mass rapid testing rollout to find those who are asymptomatic with the virus .
It comes as the Prime Minister said he was feeling “ great ” on his first working day in self-isolation after a 35-minute meeting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive for coronavirus .
In a video posted to Twitter the Prime Minister said : “ Hi folks , the good news is that NHS Test and Trace is working ever-more efficiently , but the bad news is that they ’ ve pinged me and I ’ ve got to self isolate because someone I was in contact with a few days ago has developed Covid .
“ It doesn ’ t matter that we were all doing social distancing , it doesn ’ t matter that I ’ m fit as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great – so many people do in my circumstances .
“ And actually it doesn ’ t matter that I ’ ve had the disease and I ’ m bursting with antibodies .
“ We ’ ve got to interrupt the spread of the disease and one of the ways we can do that now is by self isolating for 14 days when contacted by Test and Trace .
”

With the introduction of rapid testing within weeks, visitors are expected to be allowed into care homes by next month.
Mr Hancock said rapid tests for visitors – currently being trialled in Devon and Cornwall – should allow rollout across England within weeks.
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson uploaded a video to Twitter saying he was “bursting with antibodies” and “fit as a butcher’s dog” despite needing to self-isolate after coming into contact with an infected MP.
And Public Health England’s head of immunisation said at least half the population could need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to “really see an impact on spread within communities”.
In a round of morning broadcast interviews, Mr Hancock stressed the final decision whether to allow visits rested with individual care homes and local councils, but said: “I hope to have that in place for all care homes by Christmas.”
He listened as one man described how visits to his wife’s care home in Hampshire had been severely restricted, impacting on her dementia.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Michael Blackstad told how coronavirus guidelines at his wife Trisha’s care home was making her situation a “nightmare”.
He said his wife’s Alzheimer’s had become “very far advanced” but the only visitors she was allowed were care home staff dressed in personal protective equipment.
Mr Blackstad, who has Parkinson’s, said: “She was always a lively articulate person.
“(Now) she stands, she fidgets, her head is bowed.
“She’s basically got this form of dementia which means she doesn’t like sitting down.
“That makes it a nightmare being in a single room – it is like being stuck in a hotel room for three weeks without being able to go out. It’s just awful.”
Mr Blackstad said the care home was planning to put in a visiting facility that he described as being “rather like a prison”, with Perspex screens from “floor to ceiling” and speakerphones, but only once there were no more Covid cases at the centre.
Responding to the interview, Mr Hancock described the situation as “heartbreaking” and “really difficult”.
He added: “I know this from personal circumstances as well in terms of members of my own family … who are in the same sort of situation. It is very difficult.
“The problem is that we know when this virus gets into care homes, we know that people in care homes are particularly vulnerable to it and it runs rife, and so we both need to protect people from the virus but also do that in as a humane a way as possible, and we know the impact on people’s health, let alone everything else, on not being able to see visitors.”
Mr Hancock said he hoped to have testing for care home visitors in place for all care homes in England “by Christmas”, with the pilot currently taking place in 20 homes.
But he admitted there were challenges given the sector is largely run by the private sector.
Mr Hancock, who is due to host a Downing Street press conference later, said it was “too early” to determine whether the lockdown measures in England would end after December 2.
Asked whether the lockdown would simply be “rebadged” after the deadline, he said: “You tempt me, but it is too early to say I’m afraid.
“We’ve seen in the last week that there is still a very high number of cases but we do absolutely want to come out of this national lockdown.
“That is our goal, everybody has a part to play in making that happen of course, following the social distancing rules and isolating when you need to, which is the critical thing.”
He said one of the main goals now was to use the mass rapid testing rollout to find those who are asymptomatic with the virus.
It comes as the Prime Minister said he was feeling “great” on his first working day in self-isolation after a 35-minute meeting with Tory MP Lee Anderson, who later tested positive for coronavirus.
In a video posted to Twitter the Prime Minister said: “Hi folks, the good news is that NHS Test and Trace is working ever-more efficiently, but the bad news is that they’ve pinged me and I’ve got to self isolate because someone I was in contact with a few days ago has developed Covid.
“It doesn’t matter that we were all doing social distancing, it doesn’t matter that I’m fit as a butcher’s dog, feel great – so many people do in my circumstances.
“And actually it doesn’t matter that I’ve had the disease and I’m bursting with antibodies.
“We’ve got to interrupt the spread of the disease and one of the ways we can do that now is by self isolating for 14 days when contacted by Test and Trace.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--eBay reveals their 10 bestselling used items (and how to sell them better online)

eBay have revealed their 10 bestselling used items - and it could come in handy for those looking to get some extra cash ahead of Christmas .
The online company has compiled a list of its top-selling pre-loved categories , to give you some inspiration .
Here ’ s the list , along with the average selling price in brackets… This could be music to your ears if you ’ re fed up with someone else in the household playing a squeaky violin ( although obviously don ’ t sell someone else ’ s belongings without permission ! )
.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , GPS devices and spare tools are sought-after items .
Photography has been a popular lockdown hobby , so if you have some unwanted gear , it could be snapped up by someone else .
Now ’ s your chance to get rid of that old vase your aunt gave you that you never really liked .
Many people are looking for new reading material to curl up with in the cold winter months .
Your unwanted desk could be very useful to buyers , as the working from home trend continues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home this year , so if you never got round to using that yoga mat , shift it on .
Also popular due to the home working trend , any spare laptops , keyboards or headsets could prove popular .
While these may normally be thought of as summer items , 2020 hasn ’ t been a normal year , and they may still be popular with people looking to stay outdoors and keep their distance in the months to come .
10 .
Sound and vision – such as televisions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The home has been the centre of where people get their entertainment in 2020 , so sell off any unwanted television sets or speakers as people prepare to upgrade .
Here 's a few more tips from eBay If you ’ re not sure how to market your items , eBay ’ s head of preloved , Emma Grant , has some tips .
She suggests taking the time to get the wording of listings right , as buyers will use certain key words when searching for items .
• Use terms buyers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and product names .
• It ’ s also worth spending time taking good , accurate photos which show off your item to its best , as well as being honest and pointing out any flaws .
• Be as detailed in your description as you can and consider what you ’ d want to know if you were the buyer .
• You can also research what similar items have previously sold for , so that you get your pricing just right .

The online company has compiled a list of its top-selling pre-loved categories, to give you some inspiration.
Here’s the list, along with the average selling price in brackets…
1. Musical instruments (£261.59)
This could be music to your ears if you’re fed up with someone else in the household playing a squeaky violin (although obviously don’t sell someone else’s belongings without permission!).
2. Vehicle parts and accessories (£154.20)
With UK-based staycations having been popular this year, GPS devices and spare tools are sought-after items.
3. Cameras and photography (£107.17)
Photography has been a popular lockdown hobby, so if you have some unwanted gear, it could be snapped up by someone else.
4. Antiques (£93.70)
Now’s your chance to get rid of that old vase your aunt gave you that you never really liked.
5. Books, comics and magazines (£78.25)
Many people are looking for new reading material to curl up with in the cold winter months.
6. Business and office items (£73.77)
Your unwanted desk could be very useful to buyers, as the working from home trend continues.
7. Sporting goods (£63.15)
Many people have been working out from home this year, so if you never got round to using that yoga mat, shift it on.
8. Computers and networking (£62.11)
Also popular due to the home working trend, any spare laptops, keyboards or headsets could prove popular.
9. Garden and patio equipment (£46.61)
While these may normally be thought of as summer items, 2020 hasn’t been a normal year, and they may still be popular with people looking to stay outdoors and keep their distance in the months to come.
10. Sound and vision – such as televisions, home speakers and headphones (£45.56)
The home has been the centre of where people get their entertainment in 2020, so sell off any unwanted television sets or speakers as people prepare to upgrade.
Here's a few more tips from eBay
If you’re not sure how to market your items, eBay’s head of preloved, Emma Grant, has some tips.
She suggests taking the time to get the wording of listings right, as buyers will use certain key words when searching for items.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--Martin Lewis issues urgent warning to all Facebook and WhatsApp users

Money and finance expert Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning for all those who use social media apps Facebook and WhatsApp .
We 've put together everything you need to know .
What has Martin warned WhatsApp and Facebook users about ?
Martin has warned of fake posts going round on other social media platforms about an 'extremely sophisticated ' scam involving banks .
What does the scam say ?
The posts , which have been circulated on Facebook and WhatsApp , mentioned that recipients get a message saying payment has n't been taken from O2 , Vodafone , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should click on a link .
`` As soon as you touch it you money is gone , '' the viral warning adds .
It then went on to say that banks have been inundated with calls , and that Martin Lewis confirmed it this morning .
Taking to Twitter to share his response , Martin said : `` This viral scam alert 's nowt to do with me.. '' I 've NOT talked about it .
Always be scamaware , but this sounds nonsense . ''
However , Martin added that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scams .
He continued : `` If you do get scam texts/emails it describes , it 's likely phishing for data , so delete .
`` Yet the scam alert 's no better and ai n't from City of London Police as far as I know . ''
What have Action Fraud said ?
Action Fraud - who are part of the City of London Police - said back in March that an incredibly similar message was nothing to do with them .
In a statement , they said : `` We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WhatsApp , SMS and social media which references the City of London Police Fraud Team and claims that Danske Bank customers are being targeted by a particular text message ( smishing ) scam .
The content of this message is false .
`` However , smishing scams are common .
Don ’ t click on the links or attachments in any suspicious emails or texts , and never respond to messages that ask for your personal or financial details .
`` It ’ s important to remember that your bank would never ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ account , or contact you out of the blue and ask for details such as your full banking password or PIN .
`` Anyone who has divulged information after receiving this type of message should contact their Bank immediately . ''
What advice should people follow if they have been a target of fraud ?
Action Fraud have shared the following advice for those who think they may have been a target of fraud .
• Be wary of clicking on unsolicited messages on social media , email , texts or WhatsApp - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trusted contact .
• Do some online research first - check the official website to see if there is any information available .
• Ensure that you have anti-virus software on your computer .
• Never give out personal or financial data including usernames , passwords , PINs , ID numbers or memorable phrases .

We've put together everything you need to know.
What has Martin warned WhatsApp and Facebook users about?
Martin has warned of fake posts going round on other social media platforms about an 'extremely sophisticated' scam involving banks.
What does the scam say?
The posts, which have been circulated on Facebook and WhatsApp, mentioned that recipients get a message saying payment hasn't been taken from O2, Vodafone, Three, GiffGaff or EE and they should click on a link.
"As soon as you touch it you money is gone," the viral warning adds.
It then went on to say that banks have been inundated with calls, and that Martin Lewis confirmed it this morning.
What was Martin's response?
Taking to Twitter to share his response, Martin said: "This viral scam alert's nowt to do with me..
"I've NOT talked about it. Always be scamaware, but this sounds nonsense."
However, Martin added that it's not an excuse to relax about scams.
He continued: "If you do get scam texts/emails it describes, it's likely phishing for data, so delete.
"Yet the scam alert's no better and ain't from City of London Police as far as I know."
What have Action Fraud said?
Action Fraud - who are part of the City of London Police - said back in March that an incredibly similar message was nothing to do with them.
In a statement, they said: "We are aware of a rumour currently circulating via WhatsApp, SMS and social media which references the City of London Police Fraud Team and claims that Danske Bank customers are being targeted by a particular text message (smishing) scam. The content of this message is false.
"However, smishing scams are common. Don’t click on the links or attachments in any suspicious emails or texts, and never respond to messages that ask for your personal or financial details.
"It’s important to remember that your bank would never ask you to move money out of your account, or contact you out of the blue and ask for details such as your full banking password or PIN.
"Anyone who has divulged information after receiving this type of message should contact their Bank immediately."
What advice should people follow if they have been a target of fraud?
Action Fraud have shared the following advice for those who think they may have been a target of fraud.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-16--Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club hotshots show their skills

Here are some shots from the Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club to start the week

As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles.
Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services.
These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Bewdley youngster's double medal success in wheelchair tennis

A BEWDLEY teenager has come away with a double medal success in a national sports competition .
Dan Pennington-Bridges , @ @ @ @ @ his A-levels at the Bewdley School and Sixth Form , was competing in the under-18 @ @ @ @ @ Association 's National Wheelchair Series at Leeds .
He was runner up in the singles @ @ @ @ @ his partner Alice Dyer in the doubles .
Dan , 17 , who suffers from @ @ @ @ @ not walk without the aid of crutches , has been playing wheelchair sports since he @ @ @ @ @ He first became interested in wheelchair basketball but after a serious spinal fusion operation on @ @ @ @ @ found that he could no longer play .
He then focussed on tennis .
Last @ @ @ @ @ British Open Junior competition and from then his interest increased and the competition at Leeds @ @ @ @ @ able to run this year .
Dan was delighted to compete , and even more @ @ @ @ @ two medals .

Dan Pennington-Bridges, who is currently studying for his A-levels at the Bewdley School and Sixth Form, was competing in the under-18 category in the Lawn Tennis Association's National Wheelchair Series at Leeds.
He was runner up in the singles competition and joint winner with his partner Alice Dyer in the doubles.
Dan and Alice at Leeds
Dan, 17, who suffers from a bone condition and cannot walk without the aid of crutches, has been playing wheelchair sports since he was seven years old.
He first became interested in wheelchair basketball but after a serious spinal fusion operation on his back three years ago found that he could no longer play. He then focussed on tennis.
Last year, he entered the British Open Junior competition and from then his interest increased and the competition at Leeds was the first that was able to run this year.
Dan was delighted to compete, and even more delighted to come home with two medals.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-15--Four important money-saving tips to use in the run up to Christmas

Money and finance experts have revealed several top tips to help save cash in the run up to Christmas .
It follows the impact of Covid-19 - which has meant that many of us have had to tighten our belts when it comes to finances this year .
These are the four important tips on how to save money this Christmas - even in the midst of the pandemic : Black Friday usually looms large over the festive bargain market , and this year it looks set to be a Black Week , or even Black Month .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a lot more spread out this year , ” says Guy Anker , Deputy Editor at Money Saving Expert , “ partly because , for obvious reasons , we can ’ t have the usual mass stampede in stores.
” “ None of us know exactly when deals will start , so be on guard .
If you already know what you want to buy for Christmas , it ’ s a really good opportunity.
” Planning ahead also trickles your costs across the season .
Your overheads may be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equal money , and spreading out spending simply hits the wallet less hard .
Not every good deal comes with a discount sign , and there ’ s always mileage in shopping around .
It ’ s not terribly romantic , but if you can find out early what your loved ones may want , you ’ ve got a good shot of landing your gifts at friendly prices .
“ Definitely compare prices , ” says Anker , “ particularly for electrical or mass market items where you know exactly what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to do it – put in the product and it will show you a range of stores so you can find your cheapest option .
As a nation , we ’ ll be shopping online more than ever this year , so all the more reason to use online comparison websites.
” Of course , the simplest way to slash gift budgets is to buy fewer of them , and clubbing together can ensure relatives get thoughtful gifts while spreading the financial burden .
A Secret Santa system can dress up economising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes with a helpful price limit to keep every gift in the same ball park .
Alternatively , retain the limit without the game : “ A price limit agreed with family and friends was the most popular Christmas money-saving hack last year , ” says Liz Edwards , Editor-in-Chief at shopping comparison site Finder , “ according to our research .
It may well come as a relief to others when you suggest it.
” You could also operate a one-in-one-out system – for every new present you buy , sell an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anymore – or simply make presents yourself at home .
“ We hear from our users all the time about presents they make at home , ” says Anker , “ and it can be as simple as baking someone a cake.
” Gifts don ’ t have to be material , and the most personal presents can consist of just doing something nice .
“ I promise I ’ ll make you breakfast in bed , I ’ ll do the washing up , I ’ ll buy you something in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ there ’ s a lot of people who can ’ t afford to buy Christmas presents , and if you can ’ t give a physical item , you can promise something nice in the future.
” • Look after the pennies Everyone knows the purse strings draw a little tighter around Christmas time , and there are plenty of smaller savings that , taken together , add up to a healthy wedge of extra cash .
It may not seem in the spirit of the season , but Christmas trees are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a straightforward , long-term economy , or , for real trees , we bet no one will notice if this year ’ s offering is a foot shorter and a few percentage points less bushy .
Christmas cards drum up festive feeling , but if you haven ’ t seen someone for 30 years , are they really going to miss one annual greeting ?
For a more modern solution , consider the increasingly popular Christmas email .
Find a festive picture , add a fun font greeting , and enjoy extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Look at your outgoings , too .
Most of us have at least one lapsed membership or subscription taking bites out of our finances , and cancelling them stops a steady build-up of waste .
“ For Christmas entertainment , ” says Edwards , “ use a one-month free trial from Amazon Prime or Hayu .
Put in your diary when the trial ends to review or cancel it , so you don ’ t default into a subscription you may not want.
” With Christmas being the mid-winter festival , inevitably heating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to be indoors a lot this winter , ” says Edwards , “ and according to the regulator , Ofgem , there are around 11 million households on a default tariff .
Most of these are overpaying , and would save around £200 by switching to a fixed-rate deal from a good supplier.
” 2020 has been hard for many , so if you are fortunate enough to be getting by OK , you may be able to ease the cost of Christmas for others .
High streets across the land are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stores could certainly use your custom more than internet giants .
“ It ’ s not our responsibility as consumers to look after the high street , ” says Anker , “ but if you can , perhaps support your local businesses to help them ride the Covid storm.
” Even shops which are shut may be offering click and collect services , or deliveries to your front door .
And don ’ t forget about charities .
Giving is simple and easy , and you can gift anything from clean water to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently bought vaccines for children on behalf of someone , ” says Anker , “ and donating to food banks has risen in popularity , in part thanks to Marcus Rashford ’ s campaign.
” No matter your financial situation this year , there are plenty of ways to save money and help out .

It follows the impact of Covid-19 - which has meant that many of us have had to tighten our belts when it comes to finances this year.
These are the four important tips on how to save money this Christmas - even in the midst of the pandemic:
Buy early
Black Friday usually looms large over the festive bargain market, and this year it looks set to be a Black Week, or even Black Month. “The indications are that it’s going to be a lot more spread out this year,” says Guy Anker, Deputy Editor at Money Saving Expert, “partly because, for obvious reasons, we can’t have the usual mass stampede in stores.”
“None of us know exactly when deals will start, so be on guard. If you already know what you want to buy for Christmas, it’s a really good opportunity.”
Planning ahead also trickles your costs across the season. Your overheads may be the same overall, but time genuinely does equal money, and spreading out spending simply hits the wallet less hard.
Shop around
Not every good deal comes with a discount sign, and there’s always mileage in shopping around. It’s not terribly romantic, but if you can find out early what your loved ones may want, you’ve got a good shot of landing your gifts at friendly prices.
“Definitely compare prices,” says Anker, “particularly for electrical or mass market items where you know exactly what you want. Google Shopping is a simple way to do it – put in the product and it will show you a range of stores so you can find your cheapest option. As a nation, we’ll be shopping online more than ever this year, so all the more reason to use online comparison websites.”
Of course, the simplest way to slash gift budgets is to buy fewer of them, and clubbing together can ensure relatives get thoughtful gifts while spreading the financial burden.
A Secret Santa system can dress up economising as a fun activity, and usually comes with a helpful price limit to keep every gift in the same ball park.
Alternatively, retain the limit without the game: “A price limit agreed with family and friends was the most popular Christmas money-saving hack last year,” says Liz Edwards, Editor-in-Chief at shopping comparison site Finder, “according to our research. It may well come as a relief to others when you suggest it.”
You could also operate a one-in-one-out system – for every new present you buy, sell an old item you don’t use anymore – or simply make presents yourself at home.
“We hear from our users all the time about presents they make at home,” says Anker, “and it can be as simple as baking someone a cake.”
Gifts don’t have to be material, and the most personal presents can consist of just doing something nice.
“I promise I’ll make you breakfast in bed, I’ll do the washing up, I’ll buy you something in the January sales,” proffers Anker, “there’s a lot of people who can’t afford to buy Christmas presents, and if you can’t give a physical item, you can promise something nice in the future.”
Look after the pennies
Everyone knows the purse strings draw a little tighter around Christmas time, and there are plenty of smaller savings that, taken together, add up to a healthy wedge of extra cash.
It may not seem in the spirit of the season, but Christmas trees are an obvious starting point. Fake trees are a straightforward, long-term economy, or, for real trees, we bet no one will notice if this year’s offering is a foot shorter and a few percentage points less bushy.
Christmas cards drum up festive feeling, but if you haven’t seen someone for 30 years, are they really going to miss one annual greeting?
For a more modern solution, consider the increasingly popular Christmas email. Find a festive picture, add a fun font greeting, and enjoy extra space for family updates and musings.
Look at your outgoings, too. Most of us have at least one lapsed membership or subscription taking bites out of our finances, and cancelling them stops a steady build-up of waste.
“For Christmas entertainment,” says Edwards, “use a one-month free trial from Amazon Prime or Hayu. Put in your diary when the trial ends to review or cancel it, so you don’t default into a subscription you may not want.”
With Christmas being the mid-winter festival, inevitably heating bills loom. “We’re going to be indoors a lot this winter,” says Edwards, “and according to the regulator, Ofgem, there are around 11 million households on a default tariff. Most of these are overpaying, and would save around £200 by switching to a fixed-rate deal from a good supplier.”
Conscientious Christmases
2020 has been hard for many, so if you are fortunate enough to be getting by OK, you may be able to ease the cost of Christmas for others.
High streets across the land are buckling under pandemic pressure, and independent stores could certainly use your custom more than internet giants.
“It’s not our responsibility as consumers to look after the high street,” says Anker, “but if you can, perhaps support your local businesses to help them ride the Covid storm.” Even shops which are shut may be offering click and collect services, or deliveries to your front door.
And don’t forget about charities. Giving is simple and easy, and you can gift anything from clean water to aid for farm animals.
“I recently bought vaccines for children on behalf of someone,” says Anker, “and donating to food banks has risen in popularity, in part thanks to Marcus Rashford’s campaign.”
No matter your financial situation this year, there are plenty of ways to save money and help out.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Wyre Forest's coronavirus infection rate still rising

THE county ’ s Public Health chief has urged the public to keep up the good work fighting coronavirus as Wyre Forest 's infection rate continues to rise .
While the rate of increase has slowed down in the district , Wyre Forest 's infection rate continues to rise day after day and now sits at 285.3 per 100,000 people .
In the seven days up to November 12 - the latest data available - the district recorded 289 coronavirus cases , compared to 268 in the week up to November 5 .
The infection rate that week was 264.6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest rate in Worcestershire after Redditch , which recorded a rolling infection rate of 337.8 in the seven days up to November 12 , with 288 positive cases .
Bromsgrove 's infection rate stands at 283.3 with 283 cases , compared to a rate of 212.3 and 212 cases a week earlier .
Worcester 's rate has risen to 280.6 with 284 cases .
The week before , the city had a rate of 221.3 with 224 positive coronavirus cases .
In Wychavon , the infection rate stands at 167.7 with 217 positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to a rate of 163 and 211 cases the week before .
Malvern was the only district which saw its infection rate fall compared to the previous week .
It now has a rate of 113.1 with 89 cases , compared to 120.7 with 95 cases a week earlier .
In comparison , Birmingham 's latest infection rate was 380.9 with 4,349 Covid cases , compared to a rate of 327.2 and 3,736 cases the week before .
The figures are based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four days have been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases .
A majority of areas in England - 238 out of 315 - have seen a rise in case rates .
Hull has the highest rate in England , with 2,017 new cases recorded in the seven days to November 12 - the equivalent of 776.4 cases per 100,000 people .
This is up from 686.0 cases per 100,000 in the seven days to November 5 .
Worcestershire 's director of Public Health has warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the county recorded its worst weekend death toll since April .
She said : “ The increase in case numbers and deaths across the county is a real concern .
It is also a stark reminder that Coronavirus remains in our communities .
`` It is imperative that we all continue to take the virus seriously , following the Hand , Face , Space and social distancing guidelines at all times .
`` The guidelines apply to everyone and following them is the most effective way to stop the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full two metres apart from other people .
By doing all we can and avoiding social contact with others , we are saving lives .
It is that simple .
`` This high level of social distancing is vital to keep everyone safe and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.
” Dr Cobain was speaking after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15 .
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April , though the number of deaths is still some way off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 19 .
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates .
In recent weeks , there has been either zero or one death reported most days .
The death toll coincides with the news that the number of Covid patients in county hospitals has reached levels not seen since May .
A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5 , according to the latest NHS figures .
Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator .
Figures show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients being admitted to hospital towards the end of October , with eight people taken onto wards in the last two weeks .
Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4 .

While the rate of increase has slowed down in the district, Wyre Forest's infection rate continues to rise day after day and now sits at 285.3 per 100,000 people.
In the seven days up to November 12 - the latest data available - the district recorded 289 coronavirus cases, compared to 268 in the week up to November 5. The infection rate that week was 264.6.
Wyre Forest currently has the second highest rate in Worcestershire after Redditch, which recorded a rolling infection rate of 337.8 in the seven days up to November 12, with 288 positive cases.
A week earlier, Redditch's infection rate was 308.5 with 263 cases.
Bromsgrove's infection rate stands at 283.3 with 283 cases, compared to a rate of 212.3 and 212 cases a week earlier.
Worcester's rate has risen to 280.6 with 284 cases. The week before, the city had a rate of 221.3 with 224 positive coronavirus cases.
In Wychavon, the infection rate stands at 167.7 with 217 positive cases in the most recent week, compared to a rate of 163 and 211 cases the week before.
Malvern was the only district which saw its infection rate fall compared to the previous week. It now has a rate of 113.1 with 89 cases, compared to 120.7 with 95 cases a week earlier.
In comparison, Birmingham's latest infection rate was 380.9 with 4,349 Covid cases, compared to a rate of 327.2 and 3,736 cases the week before.
The figures are based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider community. Data for the most recent four days have been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases.
A majority of areas in England - 238 out of 315 - have seen a rise in case rates.
Hull has the highest rate in England, with 2,017 new cases recorded in the seven days to November 12 - the equivalent of 776.4 cases per 100,000 people. This is up from 686.0 cases per 100,000 in the seven days to November 5.
Worcestershire's director of Public Health has warned residents to continue taking the virus seriously after the county recorded its worst weekend death toll since April.
She said: “The increase in case numbers and deaths across the county is a real concern. It is also a stark reminder that Coronavirus remains in our communities.
"It is imperative that we all continue to take the virus seriously, following the Hand, Face, Space and social distancing guidelines at all times.
"The guidelines apply to everyone and following them is the most effective way to stop the spread of the virus.
"This includes staying the full two metres apart from other people. By doing all we can and avoiding social contact with others, we are saving lives. It is that simple.
"This high level of social distancing is vital to keep everyone safe and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Dr Cobain was speaking after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15.
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April, though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19.
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates. In recent weeks, there has been either zero or one death reported most days.
The death toll coincides with the news that the number of Covid patients in county hospitals has reached levels not seen since May.
A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5, according to the latest NHS figures. Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator.
Figures show there was a sharp increase in Covid patients being admitted to hospital towards the end of October, with eight people taken onto wards in the last two weeks. Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Car stolen after house broken into in Kidderminster

A CAR was stolen after a house was broken into in Kidderminster on Sunday .
The car thief is believed @ @ @ @ @ in Kittiwake Drive through a living room window in the early hours of the morning @ @ @ @ @ and the keys to a white VW Golf were stolen from inside .
The car @ @ @ @ @ it has black wheels and grey badges .
The number plate starts FP12 .
The @ @ @ @ @ Kittiwake Drive in Kidderminster Anyone who sees the stolen Golf or has information on the @ @ @ @ @ call West Mercia Police on 101 , quoting 00106i of November 15 .
In another @ @ @ @ @ men 's road bicycle was stolen from a shed in Kidderminster .
The bike is @ @ @ @ @ from a garden shed in Imperial Avenue some time between November 8 and November 14 @ @ @ @ @ a distinct VELO sticker on its crossbar .
Anyone with information on the theft is @ @ @ @ @ quoting crime number 00136i of November 14 .

The car thief is believed to have entered the home in Kittiwake Drive through a living room window in the early hours of the morning.
A wallet, handbag and the keys to a white VW Golf were stolen from inside.
The car is a distinctive model as it has black wheels and grey badges. The number plate starts FP12.
The VW Golf was stolen from Kittiwake Drive in Kidderminster
Anyone who sees the stolen Golf or has information on the theft is being urged to call West Mercia Police on 101, quoting 00106i of November 15.
In another burglary, a blue Giant-brand men's road bicycle was stolen from a shed in Kidderminster.
The bike is thought to have been taken from a garden shed in Imperial Avenue some time between November 8 and November 14.
The stolen bicycle has a distinct VELO sticker on its crossbar.
Anyone with information on the theft is being asked to call 101 quoting crime number 00136i of November 14.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--West Mercia Police carried out 14 'intimate' searches but only found illegal goods twice

West Mercia Police officers intimately searched 14 suspects but only found illegal goods twice over the last 11 years , new figures reveal .
Intimate searches are made of someone 's bodily orifices when police suspect they are hiding drugs or offensive weapons upon their person .
Drug reform charity Release said the low success rate of such searches nationally raises serious questions about the disproportionate use of such a `` humiliating and degrading '' use of power .
Analysis of Home Office data shows West Mercia police made 14 intimate searches between 2009-10 , the earliest year figures are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these , 13 , were to look for drugs , but Class A substances were found on just two occasions .
In the one remaining search , no harmful articles were found .
Police forces across England and Wales made 960 searches between 2009-10 and 2019-20 , finding Class A drugs or harmful articles just 14 % of the time .
Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 , intimate searches may only be carried out if there are `` reasonable grounds '' for believing a detainee may have concealed anything which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or Class A drugs in the case of suspected couriers or dealers .
The Home Office said they should be carried out by a registered medical practitioner or nurse , unless a senior officer agrees this is not practicable .
In West Mercia , the figures show one search since 2009-10 was not carried out by qualified staff – it was done by a police officer instead .
Across England and Wales , 90 % of searches over this period were done by someone suitably qualified – but last year this fell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figure on record .
Release , the national centre of expertise on drugs and drugs law in the UK , said use of the power is centred around finding small quantities of drugs .
Dr Laura Garius , the charity 's policy lead , said : `` Intimate searches are the most invasive power available to police , they go beyond the removal of clothing and involve the internal examination of individuals ’ bodily orifices , which is undoubtedly a humiliating and degrading experience for those subject to such searches .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roughly one out of ten such searches , raises serious questions about the disproportionate use of a power that allows the internal search of people ’ s bodies for drugs .
`` These recent figures are concerning and are yet another example of how our current drug policies are not only failing individuals , but causing them harm – and why we need to reform our current drug policies immediately . ''
She suggested that analysis of those actually found in possession of drugs would likely show they were driven by economic desperation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Independent Office for Police Conduct said the use of intimate searches helps protect the safety of both detainees and custody staff .
A spokeswoman added : “ Our recommendations in recent years have included calling for a national review of guidance in relation to physical contact during intimate searches and local recommendations that forces are training their custody staff appropriately , keeping records up to date and protecting the dignity of detainees . ''
A Home Office spokesman said : “ It is an operational decision for individual forces , and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fairly and proportionately .
”

Intimate searches are made of someone's bodily orifices when police suspect they are hiding drugs or offensive weapons upon their person.
Drug reform charity Release said the low success rate of such searches nationally raises serious questions about the disproportionate use of such a "humiliating and degrading" use of power.
Analysis of Home Office data shows West Mercia police made 14 intimate searches between 2009-10, the earliest year figures are available, and 2019-20.
Most of these, 13, were to look for drugs, but Class A substances were found on just two occasions.
In the one remaining search, no harmful articles were found.
Police forces across England and Wales made 960 searches between 2009-10 and 2019-20, finding Class A drugs or harmful articles just 14% of the time.
Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, intimate searches may only be carried out if there are "reasonable grounds" for believing a detainee may have concealed anything which could be used to cause physical injury, or Class A drugs in the case of suspected couriers or dealers.
The Home Office said they should be carried out by a registered medical practitioner or nurse, unless a senior officer agrees this is not practicable. In West Mercia, the figures show one search since 2009-10 was not carried out by qualified staff – it was done by a police officer instead.
Across England and Wales, 90% of searches over this period were done by someone suitably qualified – but last year this fell to just 69%, the lowest figure on record.
Release, the national centre of expertise on drugs and drugs law in the UK, said use of the power is centred around finding small quantities of drugs.
Dr Laura Garius, the charity's policy lead, said: "Intimate searches are the most invasive power available to police, they go beyond the removal of clothing and involve the internal examination of individuals’ bodily orifices, which is undoubtedly a humiliating and degrading experience for those subject to such searches.
"The fact that drugs are only found in roughly one out of ten such searches, raises serious questions about the disproportionate use of a power that allows the internal search of people’s bodies for drugs.
"These recent figures are concerning and are yet another example of how our current drug policies are not only failing individuals, but causing them harm – and why we need to reform our current drug policies immediately."
She suggested that analysis of those actually found in possession of drugs would likely show they were driven by economic desperation, and were carrying small quantities.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct said the use of intimate searches helps protect the safety of both detainees and custody staff.
A spokeswoman added: “Our recommendations in recent years have included calling for a national review of guidance in relation to physical contact during intimate searches and local recommendations that forces are training their custody staff appropriately, keeping records up to date and protecting the dignity of detainees."
A Home Office spokesman said: “It is an operational decision for individual forces, and we trust the police will use their powers fairly and proportionately.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Drivers could get a £1k fine for not updating their licence

Drivers could land a fine of up to £1000 for not updating this detail on their driving licence .
Whether you ’ ve just moved house or changed address years ago , every driver should be aware of the huge fines they face if they forget to update their licence .
In the hubbub of a property move , changing your address on your driving licence is probably close to the bottom of your priority list .
However , if you have an accident and need to claim then you could be fined up to £1000 for having the incorrect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shows that millions of motorists fail to update their address with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency .
Updating your details couldn ’ t be any quicker and takes just five minutes on the DVLA website .
A DVLA Spokesperson said : “ Our online services will always be the quickest way to keep your address up to date with us , which helps make sure you don ’ t miss important correspondence when you move house .
“ Millions of drivers change the address on their driving licence this way , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s log book online too .
It ’ s important to remember to update both when you move - and it ’ s quick and easy on GOV.UK.
” Keith Hawkes , Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts warned that drivers should always keep the DVLA informed of any changes to information on your driving license .
Mr Hawkes said : “ If any of your information on your driving licence changes , you should inform the DVLA as soon as possible .
The DVLA ’ s online service to update the address on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several years but has never been more popular , with the DVLA processing around 2.2 million changes of address from customers who used this service last year alone .

Whether you’ve just moved house or changed address years ago, every driver should be aware of the huge fines they face if they forget to update their licence.
In the hubbub of a property move, changing your address on your driving licence is probably close to the bottom of your priority list.
However, if you have an accident and need to claim then you could be fined up to £1000 for having the incorrect address.
Research from insurer Direct Line shows that millions of motorists fail to update their address with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
Updating your details couldn’t be any quicker and takes just five minutes on the DVLA website.
A DVLA Spokesperson said: “Our online services will always be the quickest way to keep your address up to date with us, which helps make sure you don’t miss important correspondence when you move house.
“Millions of drivers change the address on their driving licence this way, and you can now update your vehicle’s log book online too. It’s important to remember to update both when you move - and it’s quick and easy on GOV.UK.”
Keith Hawkes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts warned that drivers should always keep the DVLA informed of any changes to information on your driving license.
Mr Hawkes said: “If any of your information on your driving licence changes, you should inform the DVLA as soon as possible.
“This includes name changes, updates in health, and changing the licence before it expires. Running a car is expensive as it is, let alone with an eye-watering bill that just isn’t needed.”
The DVLA’s online service to update the address on a driving licence has been available for several years but has never been more popular, with the DVLA processing around 2.2 million changes of address from customers who used this service last year alone.