kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-27--Royal Mail to hire 33,000 temporary Christmas staff

Royal Mail are looking to take on 33,000 temporary workers to help out during the busy Christmas period - with jobs available in locations across the country .
We 've put together everything you need to know .
The postal service typically employs between 15,000 and 23,000 extra staff between October and January to help sort the additional Christmas volumes of parcels , cards and letters .
However , a high number of workers is needed this year due to a boom in parcel volumes , which comes as more people turn to online shopping as a result of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre sorting posts are available in England , around 1,400 posts in Scotland , 700 posts in Wales and 500 posts in Northern Ireland .
The job involves unloading mail and parcels from vans , and sorting them in the warehouse to ensure they arrive at their destination safely .
Royal Mail is looking for workers who : • Are flexible and adaptable to work on various tasks during a shift • Are able to push trolleys ( up to 250kgs ) and lift and move mail bags up to 11kg • Can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous experience is needed for the role , but you must be comfortable working in shifts .
When you apply , you will be able to select the shift patterns that best suit you , with earlies , lates , nights and weekend shifts available at most centres .
If your application is successful , you will be offered a role based on the shift preferences you choose in your application , so be sure to select them carefully .
However , it is not guaranteed that you will be given your preferred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a first come first serve basis , with shift times varying depending on the amount of mail going through the centres .
How much will the roles be paid ?
The pay is hourly and ranges from £8.72 to £9.40 per hour for a mail sorting role .
To apply for the role , go to Royal Mail ’ s careers website online to find if jobs are available near you and fill out an application .
If you are registered with Angard for work with Royal Mail , you don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You can speak to your Angard representative via the website for more information .
If you are under the age of 18 , you are not legally allowed to work night shifts .
Royal Mail also advises that you do not apply for a Christmas role at more than one location , as you may still be considered for other sites close to your local area .
Any multiple applications will be deleted .

We've put together everything you need to know.
'Record number' of seasonal workers wanted
The postal service typically employs between 15,000 and 23,000 extra staff between October and January to help sort the additional Christmas volumes of parcels, cards and letters.
However, a high number of workers is needed this year due to a boom in parcel volumes, which comes as more people turn to online shopping as a result of the ongoing pandemic.
More than 13,000 mail centre sorting posts are available in England, around 1,400 posts in Scotland, 700 posts in Wales and 500 posts in Northern Ireland.
The job involves unloading mail and parcels from vans, and sorting them in the warehouse to ensure they arrive at their destination safely.
Royal Mail is looking for workers who:
Enjoy working to tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Are proactive and detail focused
Are flexible and adaptable to work on various tasks during a shift
Are able to push trolleys (up to 250kgs) and lift and move mail bags up to 11kg
Can stand for long periods of time
No previous experience is needed for the role, but you must be comfortable working in shifts.
When you apply, you will be able to select the shift patterns that best suit you, with earlies, lates, nights and weekend shifts available at most centres. If your application is successful, you will be offered a role based on the shift preferences you choose in your application, so be sure to select them carefully.
However, it is not guaranteed that you will be given your preferred shifts, as these are offered on a first come first serve basis, with shift times varying depending on the amount of mail going through the centres.
How much will the roles be paid?
The pay is hourly and ranges from £8.72 to £9.40 per hour for a mail sorting role.
How to apply
To apply for the role, go to Royal Mail’s careers website online to find if jobs are available near you and fill out an application.
If you are registered with Angard for work with Royal Mail, you don’t need to apply for Christmas Casual work. You can speak to your Angard representative via the website for more information.
If you are under the age of 18, you are not legally allowed to work night shifts.
Royal Mail also advises that you do not apply for a Christmas role at more than one location, as you may still be considered for other sites close to your local area. Any multiple applications will be deleted.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-27--No, Woolworths is NOT coming back to a high street near you

Britain ’ s most dearly missed retailer Woolworths is NOT coming back to the high street , following a series of announcements made on Twitter that sparked speculation over its return .
A new Twitter account purporting to be from Woolworths said it is returning to the high street with three trial stores due to open late 2021 .
But the Very Group , which owns the brand , confirmed the account is not connected the company .
The store , famous for its pick ‘ n ’ mix sweets , children ’ s clothes , homewares , CDs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed all of its UK stores by January 2009 .
An announcement this morning on the newly created 'Woolworth UK ' Twitter account , said : `` Here to save 2020 !
Woolworths is coming back to your high street , as a physical store !
`` A couple of legal things to get sorted , but we ’ re full steam ahead at Woolworths HQ .
`` We want to get this right , so we need your help .
What do you want at your UK # YourWoolworths ? ''
Scores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to question its legitmacy .
And now Very has confirmed the tweets are nothing to do with them .
A spokesman for the Very group said : `` We own the Woolworths trademark in the UK .
The Twitter account UKWoolworths is not connected to The Very Group.
” The Woolworths UK trademark was bought in 2009 and later merged with online brand Very.co.uk .
Very announced the move on its website , promising that customers of the defunct Woolworths site would be able to find many of the same products on its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time : `` Just in case you didn ’ t know , the Woolworths online store has closed its virtual doors for the last time ( sad face ) but the great news is you can still use your Woolworths account to shop at Very !
`` You can find 1000s of the same great products you used to love shopping at Woolworths , plus lots and lots of new ones too . ''

A new Twitter account purporting to be from Woolworths said it is returning to the high street with three trial stores due to open late 2021.
But the Very Group, which owns the brand, confirmed the account is not connected the company.
The store, famous for its pick ‘n’ mix sweets, children’s clothes, homewares, CDs and DVDs went into administration in 2008 and closed all of its UK stores by January 2009.
An announcement this morning on the newly created 'Woolworth UK' Twitter account, said: "Here to save 2020! Woolworths is coming back to your high street, as a physical store!
Our return will be via. 3 trial stores, that are being planned to open late 2021. Can’t wait to be back! ❤ https://t.co/HPT9g3saLj — Woolworths UK (@UKWoolworths) October 27, 2020
"A couple of legal things to get sorted, but we’re full steam ahead at Woolworths HQ.
"We want to get this right, so we need your help. What do you want at your UK #YourWoolworths?"
Scores of Twitter users jumped on the annoucement to question its legitmacy.
And now Very has confirmed the tweets are nothing to do with them.
A spokesman for the Very group said: "We own the Woolworths trademark in the UK. The Twitter account UKWoolworths is not connected to The Very Group.”
The Woolworths UK trademark was bought in 2009 and later merged with online brand Very.co.uk.
Very announced the move on its website, promising that customers of the defunct Woolworths site would be able to find many of the same products on its own site.
It said at the time: "Just in case you didn’t know, the Woolworths online store has closed its virtual doors for the last time (sad face) but the great news is you can still use your Woolworths account to shop at Very!
"You can find 1000s of the same great products you used to love shopping at Woolworths, plus lots and lots of new ones too."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Date set for hearings to examine Wyre Forest Local Plan

PUBLIC hearings to examine Wyre Forest District Council 's planning blueprint of future development sites will be held in the new year .
Planning inspectorate Mary Travers will undertake the examination of the district council 's Local Plan and a series of public hearings set to take place over a four-week period will start on Monday , January 11 .
The Local Plan identifies where developments sites for homes and businesses will be , and the services and infrastructure needed to support them .
The plan pledges to deliver more than 6,000 new houses between 2016 and 2036 plus 29 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites including Pearl Lane at Areley Kings , Coniston Crescent and Steatite Way in Stourport , and Carpets of Worth in Kidderminster .
Councillor Fran Oborski , deputy council leader and cabinet member for economic regeneration , planning and capital investments , said : “ I ’ m pleased that the Inspector has been able to announce the dates of the hearings and confirm the matters to be addressed as this is another milestone in the council progressing towards the adoption of the Local Plan.
” A public consultation received more than 1,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final draft of the plan was submitted to the Secretary of State at the end of April .
After reopening for public consultation , land at Yew Tree Walk was removed as an allocated site for housing , while Green Belt land at Blakedown was added for additional railway station car parking and new homes .
Matters and questions the planning inspectorate intends to explore during the hearings are listed on the council 's website .
Anyone who has registered to appear at the hearings will be contacted directly by the Local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the hearings will be conducted online to ensure the safety of those taking part during the coronavirus pandemic .

Planning inspectorate Mary Travers will undertake the examination of the district council's Local Plan and a series of public hearings set to take place over a four-week period will start on Monday, January 11.
The Local Plan identifies where developments sites for homes and businesses will be, and the services and infrastructure needed to support them.
The plan pledges to deliver more than 6,000 new houses between 2016 and 2036 plus 29 hectares of employment land, with planned sites including Pearl Lane at Areley Kings, Coniston Crescent and Steatite Way in Stourport, and Carpets of Worth in Kidderminster.
Councillor Fran Oborski, deputy council leader and cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and capital investments, said: “I’m pleased that the Inspector has been able to announce the dates of the hearings and confirm the matters to be addressed as this is another milestone in the council progressing towards the adoption of the Local Plan.”
A public consultation received more than 1,000 responses from more than 500 respondents and the final draft of the plan was submitted to the Secretary of State at the end of April.
After reopening for public consultation, land at Yew Tree Walk was removed as an allocated site for housing, while Green Belt land at Blakedown was added for additional railway station car parking and new homes.
Matters and questions the planning inspectorate intends to explore during the hearings are listed on the council's website.
Anyone who has registered to appear at the hearings will be contacted directly by the Local Plan programme officer.
It is expected that the hearings will be conducted online to ensure the safety of those taking part during the coronavirus pandemic.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Our Love Local Business campaign is launched in Wyre Forest

TODAY the Shuttle is throwing its support behind local businesses in Wyre Forest - and we are urging you to do the same .
We are launching our Love Local Business campaign to encourage people to spend their money locally in the run up to Christmas , to help businesses as they struggle with the impact of coronavirus .
Love Local Business this Christmas follows on from the successful campaign , of the same name , which we ran in the Shuttle this summer .
The aim is to promote all the fantastic traders we have in the town and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ custom at this key time of the year .
As part of the Newsquest publishing group , the Shuttle reaches a huge percentage of the local population across our well-established regional brands including print publications , record online audiences and social media .
Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece said : “ As our thoughts turn to Christmas shopping , this year - more than any other , we need to do all we can for local businesses .
“ Our local traders and services have suffered terribly during the lockdown and deserve any support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Christmas is going to be a key period for many local and independent traders .
When we launched our Love Local Business earlier this year , we were able to shine light on lots of local businesses that were emerging from the lockdown and looking to rebuild their trade .
“ In the coming weeks we will be promoting these businesses in our newspaper , on our website and our social media channels , to help spread the message that they are open and highlight why they are so valuable to this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our readers to show that they love local business by supporting them.
” Sales director for the Shuttle , Dale Godliman said : “ I am delighted that we are running a sustained campaign outlining the importance of using local business , at what is a crucial time for so many SMEs .
“ We reach a huge percentage of the local population across our well-established regional brands and , through a combination of combining our loyal print publications , record online audiences and market leading engagement via our social media channels , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the marketing partner of choice for local businesses during this crucial period .
l Any business which wants to be featured in the Shuttle campaign call 01905 742372 or email

We are launching our Love Local Business campaign to encourage people to spend their money locally in the run up to Christmas, to help businesses as they struggle with the impact of coronavirus.
Love Local Business this Christmas follows on from the successful campaign, of the same name, which we ran in the Shuttle this summer.
The aim is to promote all the fantastic traders we have in the town and urge our readers to give them their custom at this key time of the year.
As part of the Newsquest publishing group, the Shuttle reaches a huge percentage of the local population across our well-established regional brands including print publications, record online audiences and social media.
Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece said: “As our thoughts turn to Christmas shopping, this year - more than any other, we need to do all we can for local businesses.
“Our local traders and services have suffered terribly during the lockdown and deserve any support we can give them. The run-up to Christmas is going to be a key period for many local and independent traders. When we launched our Love Local Business earlier this year, we were able to shine light on lots of local businesses that were emerging from the lockdown and looking to rebuild their trade.
“In the coming weeks we will be promoting these businesses in our newspaper, on our website and our social media channels,to help spread the message that they are open and highlight why they are so valuable to this community.
“I urge all of our readers to show that they love local business by supporting them.”
Sales director for the Shuttle, Dale Godliman said: “I am delighted that we are running a sustained campaign outlining the importance of using local business, at what is a crucial time for so many SMEs.
“We reach a huge percentage of the local population across our well-established regional brands and, through a combination of combining our loyal print publications, record online audiences and market leading engagement via our social media channels, we are really confident that we can be the marketing partner of choice for local businesses during this crucial period.
l Any business which wants to be featured in the Shuttle campaign call 01905 742372 or email
dale.godliman@localiq.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Kidderminster and Stourport DIY shops named best in the business

A BUILDERS ' merchants with branches in Kidderminster and Stourport has won an award for being the best in the Midlands .
Thompson and Parkes , which has branches at Oldington Trading Estate and Cleobury Mortimer and a shop in Stourport , won the title of Best Builders Merchant and DIY Supplier in the Midlands at this year 's SME News Magazine 's 2020 UK Enterprise Awards .
The awards recognise small and medium companies across the UK who are committed to bettering business in their industries .
Thompson and Parkes director Jean Morris said : `` We are absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Builders Merchant and DIY Supplier in the Midlands .
“ This year has been challenging for everyone , and it is thanks to our amazing staff and their commitment in rising to this new challenge that we have been able to continue to trade and support so many other local businesses , and local people throughout .
“ Their dedication is the reason why we have won this award , and I thank each and every one of them for everything that they have and continue to do.
” Thompson & Parkes employs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within Worcestershire and Shropshire for over 80 years , supplying to the building trade and DIY market .
The business also invests in the community through partnerships with schools and nurseries and supports local charities and community initiatives by raising funds .

Thompson and Parkes, which has branches at Oldington Trading Estate and Cleobury Mortimer and a shop in Stourport, won the title of Best Builders Merchant and DIY Supplier in the Midlands at this year's SME News Magazine's 2020 UK Enterprise Awards.
The awards recognise small and medium companies across the UK who are committed to bettering business in their industries.
Thompson and Parkes director Jean Morris said: "We are absolutely thrilled and delighted to be named Best Builders Merchant and DIY Supplier in the Midlands.
“This year has been challenging for everyone, and it is thanks to our amazing staff and their commitment in rising to this new challenge that we have been able to continue to trade and support so many other local businesses, and local people throughout.
“Their dedication is the reason why we have won this award, and I thank each and every one of them for everything that they have and continue to do.”
Thompson & Parkes employs over 20 staff and has been trading within Worcestershire and Shropshire for over 80 years, supplying to the building trade and DIY market.
The business also invests in the community through partnerships with schools and nurseries and supports local charities and community initiatives by raising funds.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Worcestershire told to book A&E time slot instead of turning up

TIME slots will be given to patients at the county 's accident and emergency departments as part of a shake-up on how to access urgent care .
The new system for people in Worcestershire and Herefordshire asks for people to call NHS 111 first to ask where they should go and when if they need urgent but not emergency care .
If needed , direct referrals will be made to the right service which may be an appointment with an out of hours GP , or a timeslot at either a Minor Injury Unit ( MIU ) or accident and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire CCG says contacting 111 first means everyone will receive the right care in the right place , without waiting in public waiting areas for longer than is necessary .
Bosses say the new system will ensure everyone stays as safe as possible during the pandemic as well as allow the flow of patients to be better managed in waiting rooms and departments made smaller by social distancing .
People with serious or life-threatening illnesses or injuries are still asked to call 999 as before and patients who contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tonsillitis have also been asked to carry on as normal .
Mari Gay , managing director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire , said : “ This is all about keeping people safe during a pandemic , and we want to avoid lots of people turning up at A & E or Minor Injury Units all at one time when we must safely maintain social distance arrangements .
“ Nobody ’ s going to be locked out of our Emergency Departments or our Minor Injury Units but our advice is simple ; If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111 by phone or online to find out where you should go and when .
`` They know exactly what ’ s best for your condition and where to go for the right treatment.
” Dr Tristan Brodie , Urgent Care GP Lead , said : “ It ’ s important to stress that all GP practices across Herefordshire and Worcestershire remain open , though we are working in different ways in order to protect patients and staff from the ongoing risk of coronavirus .
`` The help and support offered by surgeries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns that patients would have previously contacted their GP surgery we ask that they continue to do so . ''

The new system for people in Worcestershire and Herefordshire asks for people to call NHS 111 first to ask where they should go and when if they need urgent but not emergency care.
If needed, direct referrals will be made to the right service which may be an appointment with an out of hours GP, or a timeslot at either a Minor Injury Unit (MIU) or accident and emergency (A&E) department.
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire CCG says contacting 111 first means everyone will receive the right care in the right place, without waiting in public waiting areas for longer than is necessary.
Bosses say the new system will ensure everyone stays as safe as possible during the pandemic as well as allow the flow of patients to be better managed in waiting rooms and departments made smaller by social distancing.
People with serious or life-threatening illnesses or injuries are still asked to call 999 as before and patients who contact their GP with urgent illnesses such as tonsillitis have also been asked to carry on as normal.
Mari Gay, managing director for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: “This is all about keeping people safe during a pandemic, and we want to avoid lots of people turning up at A&E or Minor Injury Units all at one time when we must safely maintain social distance arrangements.
“Nobody’s going to be locked out of our Emergency Departments or our Minor Injury Units but our advice is simple; If you need urgent NHS care please contact NHS 111 by phone or online to find out where you should go and when.
"They know exactly what’s best for your condition and where to go for the right treatment.”
Dr Tristan Brodie, Urgent Care GP Lead, said: “It’s important to stress that all GP practices across Herefordshire and Worcestershire remain open, though we are working in different ways in order to protect patients and staff from the ongoing risk of coronavirus.
"The help and support offered by surgeries remains unchanged, therefore, for health concerns that patients would have previously contacted their GP surgery we ask that they continue to do so."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Empty plates stuck to MP Mark Garnier's office after school meals vote

ACTIVISTS from Wyre Forest Labour stuck empty paper plates to the windows of Mark Garnier 's office in a mark of protest against the MP ’ s vote not to extend free school meals into the half-term break .
Labour members marched on Mr Garnier 's constituency office in Stourport on Tuesday to urge him to change his mind on last Wednesday 's vote , which saw 322 MPs reject calls for free school meals to be offered over the holidays until Easter 2021 .
Liam Carroll , who attended the protest , said : `` We decided to organise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with those who will be impacted by this decision .
Activists from Wyre Forest Labour at MP Mark Garnier 's constituency office on Tuesday '' I will keep campaigning for a government U-turn until it happens .
Mark Garnier needs to do the right thing and support our plea to ensure that children do not go hungry . ''
Wyre Forest district councillor Leigh Whitehouse said : “ This is about sending a clear message to Mr Garnier that we will not sit back and simply do nothing to hold him to account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are talking about vulnerable children who need to be fed to thrive , it ’ s as simple as that - do the right thing and feed them !
” Councillor Whitehouse also posted a paper plate to Conservative councillors at County Hall , urging Worcestershire County Council to step in to ensure poor children are fed .
Mr Garnier previously told The Shuttle he felt “ confident ” vulnerable children are being provided for .
He said : “ The government has put in place a new system to support vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place to supersede the voucher system .
I ’ m confident vulnerable families are being provided for in the wider system.
” The MP said £414,000 was allocated to Wyre Forest last week .
But speaking on behalf of Wyre Forest Labour , Stephen Brown said : `` [ Mark Garnier ] has no idea of the struggle that the 5,700 kids affected living in the poorest families in Wyre Forest are going through right now .
`` He may well fool himself that he ’ s confident our vulnerable kids are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not the government doing it , it ’ s local businesses , the foodbanks and others who refuse to stand idly by and allow it to happen . ''
More businesses across Kidderminster , Bewdley and Stourport have stepped up to back Marcus Rashford 's campaign to offer free meals to children in need during the half-term break .
Sami Wright , who runs The Weary Traveller pub in Kidderminster , said : “ Once again , as a community , we have completely worked together to make this happen .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ families popping in and children walking by to grab lunch bags .
It ’ s amazing and very emotional to think that there are a lot of families struggling at the moment and are to scared to ask for help.
” Other eateries and community groups that have offered free lunches in Wyre Forest include The Mitre Oak , Merchants Bewdley , Mimi 's , Catchems End Fish Bar , Riverside Fish Bar , St Peter 's Community Church , Wyre Forest Phoenix Football Club , Kidderminster Foodbank , The Bay Horse at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Inn , The Toast and Jam Club , Bewdley Museum , Nisa Local and Kirsty Elliott HR and Recruitment Ltd. Worcestershire County Council has said it will ensure that all vulnerable children in the county will get free meals during the holidays .
Councillor Marcus Hart , cabinet member with responsibility for education , said : “ We are working together with councils from across the county to make sure that every vulnerable child in Worcestershire has access to a meal every day during the half term holidays .
`` We continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initiative which combines the efforts of a range of agencies and food banks that provide a community response to holiday hunger .
• Amazing Wyre Forest businesses offer free half-term meals to children in need '' All district councils are providing welfare support services .
Anyone still in need of our help should get in touch with Here2Help Worcestershire on our website or call the hotline on 01905 768053.
” In response to the paper plates protest , Mr Garnier said : `` I have n't seen the plates as I understand they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the local community , who took them down .
`` I 've heard of this , and vandalising MPs ' offices across the county , but I had n't realised it was official Labour Party policy .
`` I do n't think I 'm alone in being sad that Labour , rather than engaging in robust political debate , are reduced to intimidating a local community 's elected representatives . ''

Labour members marched on Mr Garnier's constituency office in Stourport on Tuesday to urge him to change his mind on last Wednesday's vote, which saw 322 MPs reject calls for free school meals to be offered over the holidays until Easter 2021.
Liam Carroll, who attended the protest, said: "We decided to organise this peaceful demonstration to stand in solidarity with those who will be impacted by this decision.
Activists from Wyre Forest Labour at MP Mark Garnier's constituency office on Tuesday
"I will keep campaigning for a government U-turn until it happens. Mark Garnier needs to do the right thing and support our plea to ensure that children do not go hungry."
Wyre Forest district councillor Leigh Whitehouse said: “This is about sending a clear message to Mr Garnier that we will not sit back and simply do nothing to hold him to account - he got this wrong.
"We are talking about vulnerable children who need to be fed to thrive, it’s as simple as that - do the right thing and feed them!”
Councillor Whitehouse also posted a paper plate to Conservative councillors at County Hall, urging Worcestershire County Council to step in to ensure poor children are fed.
Wyre Forest district councillor Leigh Whitehouse posted a paper plate to Conservative members at County Hall
Mr Garnier previously told The Shuttle he felt “confident” vulnerable children are being provided for.
He said: “The government has put in place a new system to support vulnerable families. Emergency provisions have been put in place to supersede the voucher system. I’m confident vulnerable families are being provided for in the wider system.”
The MP said £414,000 was allocated to Wyre Forest last week.
But speaking on behalf of Wyre Forest Labour, Stephen Brown said: "[Mark Garnier] has no idea of the struggle that the 5,700 kids affected living in the poorest families in Wyre Forest are going through right now.
"He may well fool himself that he’s confident our vulnerable kids are being taken care of, but it’s not the government doing it, it’s local businesses, the foodbanks and others who refuse to stand idly by and allow it to happen."
More businesses across Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport have stepped up to back Marcus Rashford's campaign to offer free meals to children in need during the half-term break.
Councillor Leigh Whitehouse at County Hall
Sami Wright, who runs The Weary Traveller pub in Kidderminster, said: “Once again, as a community, we have completely worked together to make this happen.
"It’s been wonderful seeing families popping in and children walking by to grab lunch bags. It’s amazing and very emotional to think that there are a lot of families struggling at the moment and are to scared to ask for help.”
Other eateries and community groups that have offered free lunches in Wyre Forest include The Mitre Oak, Merchants Bewdley, Mimi's, Catchems End Fish Bar, Riverside Fish Bar, St Peter's Community Church, Wyre Forest Phoenix Football Club, Kidderminster Foodbank, The Bay Horse at Stourport, Norton Fisheries, The Chip Inn, The Toast and Jam Club, Bewdley Museum, Nisa Local and Kirsty Elliott HR and Recruitment Ltd.
Worcestershire County Council has said it will ensure that all vulnerable children in the county will get free meals during the holidays.
Councillor Marcus Hart, cabinet member with responsibility for education, said: “We are working together with councils from across the county to make sure that every vulnerable child in Worcestershire has access to a meal every day during the half term holidays.
"We continue to support the Ready, Steady, Worcestershire initiative which combines the efforts of a range of agencies and food banks that provide a community response to holiday hunger.
Read more:
"All district councils are providing welfare support services. Anyone still in need of our help should get in touch with Here2Help Worcestershire on our website or call the hotline on 01905 768053.”
In response to the paper plates protest, Mr Garnier said: "I haven't seen the plates as I understand they contained such profanities as to cause offence to the local community, who took them down.
"I've heard of this, and vandalising MPs' offices across the county, but I hadn't realised it was official Labour Party policy.
"I don't think I'm alone in being sad that Labour, rather than engaging in robust political debate, are reduced to intimidating a local community's elected representatives."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Road closures scheduled in Kidderminster for surfacing works

OVERNIGHT road closures and temporary traffic lights are scheduled in Kidderminster next month to allow for surfacing works as part of the Churchfields Highway Improvement Scheme .
Works to make improvements to transport links in the Churchfields area of Kidderminster are progressing well , the county council has said , with an important part of the scheme already in operation .
One of the key elements of the project is the new link access from the A456 Ringway roundabout through to Churchfields , which opened in August .
Works have also taken place to convert part of Churchfields into an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the Horsefair and change Blackwell Street to a one-way system are ongoing .
Councillor Ken Pollock , Worcestershire County Council 's cabinet member for economy and infrastructure , said : `` It ’ s pleasing to see such good progress being made on this important scheme to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the area .
“ The works have changed the area completely and I look forward to seeing the difference it makes once the works are completed , ahead of new housing being developed in the area . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ road closures are planned at the A456 St Marys Ringway between the Sainsbury ’ s junction and the A451 Stourbridge Road , Blackwell Street , Churchfields and the Horsefair while surfacing works are carried out .
Closures will be in place from Sunday , November 8 from 8pm to 5am for up to 10 nights , excluding weekends .
During the day , the junction will be open under temporary traffic lights .
Diversions will be in place during the closures .
There will be some disruption and noise , due to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it `` will do all we can to keep this to a minimum '' .

Works to make improvements to transport links in the Churchfields area of Kidderminster are progressing well, the county council has said, with an important part of the scheme already in operation.
One of the key elements of the project is the new link access from the A456 Ringway roundabout through to Churchfields, which opened in August.
Works have also taken place to convert part of Churchfields into an A-road and works to redesign the gyratory at the Horsefair and change Blackwell Street to a one-way system are ongoing.
Councillor Ken Pollock, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "It’s pleasing to see such good progress being made on this important scheme to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the area.
“The works have changed the area completely and I look forward to seeing the difference it makes once the works are completed, ahead of new housing being developed in the area."
To allow works to progress, overnight road closures are planned at the A456 St Marys Ringway between the Sainsbury’s junction and the A451 Stourbridge Road, Blackwell Street, Churchfields and the Horsefair while surfacing works are carried out.
Closures will be in place from Sunday, November 8 from 8pm to 5am for up to 10 nights, excluding weekends.
During the day, the junction will be open under temporary traffic lights. Diversions will be in place during the closures.
There will be some disruption and noise, due to the nature of the works.
The council said it "will do all we can to keep this to a minimum".


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Police appeal after terrifying armed robbery at Kidderminster pub

WITNESSES to an armed robbery at a pub in Kidderminster on Monday are being asked to contact police .
Frightened diners hid under tables as three masked robbers armed with bats and Tasers emptied the till at the Mare and Colt in Summerfield on Monday night ( October 26 ) .
One diner , who was in the pub at the time , said the men threatened to `` smash the place up '' and hit the bar with a bat while terrified diners hid under their tables .
The woman , who asked to remain anonymous , told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shouting to empty the till .
They had baseball bats and Tasers , they had come into the bar through the kitchen .
`` They started shouting at the girls behind the bar but they were saying they could n't open the till without a key .
`` The boys said to open the till or they would smash the place up .
They got Tasers out and one of them was smashing their bat on the bar .
`` The girls managed to open the tills and I think they got away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was all very frightening - not what you would expect from a quiet Monday night . ''
Police in riot vans arrived at the scene within minutes , by which time the robbers had already left the scene .
Officers investigating the incident are now appealing for witnesses to come forwards .
Inspector Kirsty Hickling , from West Mercia Police , said : “ The men threatened the staff with small batons until they handed over a quantity of cash from the till .
`` Thankfully , none of the staff were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pub in a dark coloured car .
“ The investigation is in the early stages and I would ask anyone with any information to please contact us on 101 and quote incident number 00575i of October 26 , 2020.
” All three robbers were reported by witnesses to be wearing masks and dressed in hoodies and tracksuit bottoms .
A spokesperson for the Mare and Colt said : `` Fortunately no team or customers were harmed and our priority is now supporting the team members affected .
”

Frightened diners hid under tables as three masked robbers armed with bats and Tasers emptied the till at the Mare and Colt in Summerfield on Monday night (October 26).
One diner, who was in the pub at the time, said the men threatened to "smash the place up" and hit the bar with a bat while terrified diners hid under their tables.
The woman, who asked to remain anonymous, told The Shuttle: "The three boys started shouting to empty the till. They had baseball bats and Tasers, they had come into the bar through the kitchen.
"They started shouting at the girls behind the bar but they were saying they couldn't open the till without a key.
"The boys said to open the till or they would smash the place up. They got Tasers out and one of them was smashing their bat on the bar.
"The girls managed to open the tills and I think they got away with money from three tills.
"It was all very frightening - not what you would expect from a quiet Monday night."
Police in riot vans arrived at the scene within minutes, by which time the robbers had already left the scene.
Officers investigating the incident are now appealing for witnesses to come forwards.
Inspector Kirsty Hickling, from West Mercia Police, said: “The men threatened the staff with small batons until they handed over a quantity of cash from the till.
"Thankfully, none of the staff were hurt however the three men then left the pub in a dark coloured car.
“The investigation is in the early stages and I would ask anyone with any information to please contact us on 101 and quote incident number 00575i of October 26, 2020.”
All three robbers were reported by witnesses to be wearing masks and dressed in hoodies and tracksuit bottoms.
A spokesperson for the Mare and Colt said: "Fortunately no team or customers were harmed and our priority is now supporting the team members affected.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--MP Mark Garnier: Councils will support kids on free school meals

THE big political argument right now is free school meals ( FSMs ) .
With just 72 hours before the start of half-term , an unenforceable opposition day debate was called to extend a temporary scheme that had already closed down and been replaced .
But to argue the minutiae of parliamentary procedure is to miss the fundamental point .
I have always worried about a paradox with FSMs .
If we as a society believe it is right to support families in need , through a wide variety of measures including FSMs , then why is FSMs only necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has always been logical that if a child needs free meals during term , they must need the support during holidays as well , and not just in a crisis .
This fundamental point is key .
Governments of all colours have been looking at this for many years .
The previous Labour government looked at this years ago and the idea of vouchers was examined but seen as something less than optimal , potentially stigmatising families who would have to present vouchers during holidays ( which is why we increased Universal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Of course , the vouchers system was used during the lockdown as an emergency measure , but this government has been looking at holiday meals for some time and commissioned the Dimbleby report that recommends this , but was much derided at the time of its release .
Over the years , I have met several local organisations that have set up holiday lunch clubs , providing meals for kids from families in need for some time – something I have always welcomed .
To a certain extent , the argument @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery .
At one end , some say central government should do everything .
At the other end , that civil society should be allowed to do it .
In truth , something in the middle is probably the best way .
Local community groups do a very good job and the government should support them where they can .
Local councils have been given money during the crisis to help with local need , including helping struggling families through this current crisis .
In Worcestershire , 13,000 children on free school meals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council and district councils during holidays .
Arguments need both sides to be presented with clarity and thoughtfulness .
The government can be held responsible for incredibly poor communication , failing to inform people of what they are entitled to .
Irrespective of temporary fixes , we need to make sure that as we come out of the crisis , with many lessons learnt , we never miss the opportunity to implement progressive ideas .

With just 72 hours before the start of half-term, an unenforceable opposition day debate was called to extend a temporary scheme that had already closed down and been replaced. But to argue the minutiae of parliamentary procedure is to miss the fundamental point.
I have always worried about a paradox with FSMs. If we as a society believe it is right to support families in need, through a wide variety of measures including FSMs, then why is FSMs only necessary during term time?
To me, it has always been logical that if a child needs free meals during term, they must need the support during holidays as well, and not just in a crisis. This fundamental point is key.
Governments of all colours have been looking at this for many years. The previous Labour government looked at this years ago and the idea of vouchers was examined but seen as something less than optimal, potentially stigmatising families who would have to present vouchers during holidays (which is why we increased Universal Credit by over £1,000 per year recently).
Of course, the vouchers system was used during the lockdown as an emergency measure, but this government has been looking at holiday meals for some time and commissioned the Dimbleby report that recommends this, but was much derided at the time of its release.
Over the years, I have met several local organisations that have set up holiday lunch clubs, providing meals for kids from families in need for some time – something I have always welcomed.
To a certain extent, the argument is about who should provide the local delivery. At one end, some say central government should do everything. At the other end, that civil society should be allowed to do it.
In truth, something in the middle is probably the best way. Local community groups do a very good job and the government should support them where they can. Local councils have been given money during the crisis to help with local need, including helping struggling families through this current crisis.
In Worcestershire, 13,000 children on free school meals will be supported jointly by the county council and district councils during holidays.
Arguments need both sides to be presented with clarity and thoughtfulness.
The government can be held responsible for incredibly poor communication, failing to inform people of what they are entitled to.
Irrespective of temporary fixes, we need to make sure that as we come out of the crisis, with many lessons learnt, we never miss the opportunity to implement progressive ideas.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Out trick or treating? Wyre Forest residents urged to follow Covid-19 rules this Halloween

WEST Mercia Police are urging Wyre Forest residents to keep following Covid-19 rules whilst out celebrating Halloween .
Officers are also asking residents to be 'frightfully thoughtful to those living around you , ' who might be living alone and may find parts of Halloween behaviour intimidating .
Chief Superintendent Sue Thomas said : “ We want to get the balance right between ensuring everyone is doing their bit to prevent the spread of coronavirus by following the law whilst not stopping people from having a good , safe , time .
“ As in previous years , we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duty and will be carrying out additional high visibility patrols to ensure that anti-social behaviour remains low .
`` We will also be engaging with those out and about and encouraging them to act responsibly and reminding them to follow Covid-19 laws .
Where we need to though , we will take enforcement action .
“ Perhaps most importantly , please remember that if you have Covid-19 symptoms or have been told to self-isolate you shouldn ’ t take part in any in-person Halloween festivities and shouldn ’ t give out sweets to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lots of other ways that you can still make a memorable evening for your family.
” Officers have also produced their annual posters to help prevent visitors and spooky colouring sheets for young children ; which are available from our Safer Neighbourhood Teams or on the West Mercia Police website .

Officers are also asking residents to be 'frightfully thoughtful to those living around you,' who might be living alone and may find parts of Halloween behaviour intimidating.
Chief Superintendent Sue Thomas said: “We want to get the balance right between ensuring everyone is doing their bit to prevent the spread of coronavirus by following the law whilst not stopping people from having a good, safe, time.
“As in previous years, we will have an increased number of officers on duty and will be carrying out additional high visibility patrols to ensure that anti-social behaviour remains low.
"We will also be engaging with those out and about and encouraging them to act responsibly and reminding them to follow Covid-19 laws. Where we need to though, we will take enforcement action.
“Perhaps most importantly, please remember that if you have Covid-19 symptoms or have been told to self-isolate you shouldn’t take part in any in-person Halloween festivities and shouldn’t give out sweets to trick-or-treaters. There are, however, lots of other ways that you can still make a memorable evening for your family.”
Officers have also produced their annual posters to help prevent visitors and spooky colouring sheets for young children; which are available from our Safer Neighbourhood Teams or on the West Mercia Police website.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Stourport DIY shop named best in the business


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-28--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles - what's available from Thursday, October 29?

The latest items hitting the shelves in the middle of Aldi and Lidl on Thursday , October 29 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ retailers .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each @ @ @ @ @ Aldi are selling DIY and workwear products as part of their Specialbuys set of deals @ @ @ @ @ Overhead Hoody for £14.99 each .
In the middle of Lidl this week , the @ @ @ @ @ of products , including wooden kids toys , plus indoor and outdoor plants .
A @ @ @ @ @ available in three different colours , for £34.99 each .
Plus a Playtive Play Kitchen @ @ @ @

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are selling DIY and workwear products as part of their Specialbuys set of deals.
These include:
A Unibond Aero 360 Moisture Absorber for £7.99 each.
A Workzone Aluminium Telescopic Ladder for £79.99 each.
A Multifunctional Shower Head 10cm for £6.99 each.
Plus, a Hi-Vis Overhead Hoody for £14.99 each.
For more details, visit Aldi.co.uk.
Lidl
In the middle of Lidl this week, the supermarket chain have a range of products, including wooden kids toys, plus indoor and outdoor plants.
These include:
A Playtive Train Set Assortment for £29.99 each.
A Playtive Teepee Play Tent, available in three different colours, for £34.99 each.
Plus a Playtive Play Kitchen for £49.99 each.
For more details, visit: Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Arrest after armed robbery at Kidderminster Mare and Colt pub

A MAN is in custody after a pub was hit by armed robbers in Kidderminster .
Terrified diners hid under tables as three masked robbers armed with bats and Tasers emptied the till at the Mare and Colt on the Worcester Road in Summerfield on Monday night ( October 26 ) .
A woman in the pub at the time , who asked to remain anonymous , said the men threatened to `` smash the place up '' and hit the bar with a bat as they demanded that staff hand over money from the till .
A man from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the robbery and remains in police custody .
Inspector Kirsty Hickling , from West Mercia Police , said : `` A man in his 40s from Birmingham was arrested last night by West Midlands Police officers in connection with the robbery at the Mare and Colt in Summerfield and is in their custody . ''
Police are still appealing for witnesses , and are asking anyone with information to get in touch .
Inspector Hickling added : `` I would ask anyone with any information regarding the robbery to please still get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by calling 101 and quote incident number 00575i of October 26 , 2020.
” All three robbers were reported by witnesses to be wearing masks and dressed in hoodies and tracksuit bottoms .
The men were said to have left the scene in a dark-coloured car .
Nobody was injured during the robbery .

Terrified diners hid under tables as three masked robbers armed with bats and Tasers emptied the till at the Mare and Colt on the Worcester Road in Summerfield on Monday night (October 26).
A woman in the pub at the time, who asked to remain anonymous, said the men threatened to "smash the place up" and hit the bar with a bat as they demanded that staff hand over money from the till.
A man from Birmingham has since been arrested in connection with the robbery and remains in police custody.
Read more:
Inspector Kirsty Hickling, from West Mercia Police, said: "A man in his 40s from Birmingham was arrested last night by West Midlands Police officers in connection with the robbery at the Mare and Colt in Summerfield and is in their custody."
Police are still appealing for witnesses, and are asking anyone with information to get in touch.
Inspector Hickling added: "I would ask anyone with any information regarding the robbery to please still get in touch by reporting online here or by calling 101 and quote incident number 00575i of October 26, 2020.”
All three robbers were reported by witnesses to be wearing masks and dressed in hoodies and tracksuit bottoms.
The men were said to have left the scene in a dark-coloured car.
Nobody was injured during the robbery.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Cyclist 'assaulted by VW Golf driver' in Kidderminster

A WITNESS appeal has been launched by a police after a cyclist was allegedly assaulted by a motorist in Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ that a driver of a grey VW Golf assaulted a cyclist in Exchange Street on @ @ @ @ @ .
The assault happened at around 2.30pm and the cyclist suffered minor bruising and was @ @ @ @ @ by the incident .
Officers investigating the incident are now appealing for witnesses to come @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook , Wyre Forest Police said : `` Did you see an incident occur @ @ @ @ @ , yesterday October 28 at around 2:30pm where it is alleged the driver of a @ @ @ @ @ cyclist ?
`` The cyclist sustained minor bruising and was left `` shook up '' @ @ @ @ @ please call 101 and quote incident number 00509_I_28102020 . ''

Police received a report that a driver of a grey VW Golf assaulted a cyclist in Exchange Street on Wednesday (October 28).
The assault happened at around 2.30pm and the cyclist suffered minor bruising and was left "shook up" by the incident.
Officers investigating the incident are now appealing for witnesses to come forwards.
In a post on Facebook, Wyre Forest Police said: "Did you see an incident occur on Exchange Street, Kidderminster, yesterday October 28 at around 2:30pm where it is alleged the driver of a grey VW Golf assaulted a cyclist?
"The cyclist sustained minor bruising and was left "shook up".
"If so, please call 101 and quote incident number 00509_I_28102020."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Covid-safe Aladdin Christmas pantomime coming to Kidderminster

A SOCIALLY-distanced pantomime will be flying in to Kidderminster on a magic carpet just in time for Christmas !
The team behind last year 's town hall panto production of Cinderella have confirmed their 2020 show Aladdin will be going ahead as planned this December .
Matt Smith , manager of Kidderminster Town Hall , said : “ Thanks to a successful bid and award from the government 's £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund , Kidderminster Town Hall can develop a Covid-secure programme of events over the next six months .
`` This will include this year ’ s pantomime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Theatrical .
`` We are also working on a business plan for the future development of the town hall and an annual pantomime has an important part to play .
`` We are delighted to be working with Michael and his team again and I ’ m sure it will be as popular and successful as last year ’ s production.
” Last year ’ s production of Cinderella was a debut first professional pantomime for Kidderminster , but due to the ongoing pandemic , it looked increasingly unlikely the team would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , panto organisers were determined to pull the production together to bring some joy to the local community during the coronavirus pandemic .
The show will play to a socially-distanced audience and run with a slightly smaller cast and production team in order to comply with national restrictions .
Aladdin ’ s producer and director Michael Neri said : “ I am beyond excited to be bringing even just a small amount of theatricality to the Wyre Forest area '' We had amazing feedback from our debut production last year so I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and laughter again and give some joy in what has proved to be a very challenging year for all .
`` Our ongoing partnership with Kidderminster Town Hall has been the saving grace of this year ’ s production and it ’ s a privilege to have support from the team .
`` We have given much consideration to the social distancing we need to put in place and I am confident we will deliver a safe experience for all.
” The production team will aim to use actors and creatives from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , providing around 20 temporary job opportunities from front-of-house to technical support staff .
Councillor Sarah Rook , Mayor of Kidderminster , said : “ The town council are pleased to welcome Michael and the team back to the town hall .
`` This is a highlight in the festive calendar and will bring the community and families together in a Covid-secure venue this December.
” Aladdin will play from Monday , December 7 to Friday , December 11 , with 4.30pm and 7.30pm shows taking place daily .
Tickets can be booked @ @ @ @

The team behind last year's town hall panto production of Cinderella have confirmed their 2020 show Aladdin will be going ahead as planned this December.
Matt Smith, manager of Kidderminster Town Hall, said: “Thanks to a successful bid and award from the government's £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund, Kidderminster Town Hall can develop a Covid-secure programme of events over the next six months.
"This will include this year’s pantomime which will be co-produced with Michael Neri Theatrical.
"We are also working on a business plan for the future development of the town hall and an annual pantomime has an important part to play.
"We are delighted to be working with Michael and his team again and I’m sure it will be as popular and successful as last year’s production.”
Last year’s production of Cinderella was a debut first professional pantomime for Kidderminster, but due to the ongoing pandemic, it looked increasingly unlikely the team would be able to return with another instalment.
However, panto organisers were determined to pull the production together to bring some joy to the local community during the coronavirus pandemic.
The show will play to a socially-distanced audience and run with a slightly smaller cast and production team in order to comply with national restrictions.
Aladdin’s producer and director Michael Neri said: “I am beyond excited to be bringing even just a small amount of theatricality to the Wyre Forest area
"We had amazing feedback from our debut production last year so I hope we can bring all the fun and laughter again and give some joy in what has proved to be a very challenging year for all.
"Our ongoing partnership with Kidderminster Town Hall has been the saving grace of this year’s production and it’s a privilege to have support from the team.
"We have given much consideration to the social distancing we need to put in place and I am confident we will deliver a safe experience for all.”
The production team will aim to use actors and creatives from the West Midlands area in the Aladdin pantomime, providing around 20 temporary job opportunities from front-of-house to technical support staff.
Councillor Sarah Rook, Mayor of Kidderminster, said: “The town council are pleased to welcome Michael and the team back to the town hall.
"This is a highlight in the festive calendar and will bring the community and families together in a Covid-secure venue this December.”
Aladdin will play from Monday, December 7 to Friday, December 11, with 4.30pm and 7.30pm shows taking place daily.
Tickets can be booked online at townhallpanto.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--School meals: Where to find free meals for kids during the half term holidays

An interactive map has been set up to help find free meals for kids across the country during the half @ @ @ @ @ after scores of people and businesses right across the country took to social media in @ @ @ @ @ footballer Marcus Rashford for free meals to be extended in England over the school holidays @ @ @ @ @ need to know - and how to get involved .
A group called 'All Of @ @ @ @ @ the service , which was inspired by Marcus Rashford .
The map was set up @ @ @ @ @ a post on the All Of Us Together Facebook page , the group said : @ @ @ @ @ a live map of all of the organisations , restaurants and cafes offering free school @ @ @ @ @ term . ''
How to find free school meals near you To view the map @ @ @ @ @ : //allofustogether.uk/ .
Yes , the group are accepting submissions from areas across the country @ @ @ @ @ , visit : https : //docs.google.com/ ... /1FAIpQLSct2Y4Vl63EOD ... /viewform .

It comes after scores of people and businesses right across the country took to social media in support of a campaign by footballer Marcus Rashford for free meals to be extended in England over the school holidays.
Here's what you need to know - and how to get involved.
Who set up the map?
A group called 'All Of Us Together' set up the service, which was inspired by Marcus Rashford.
When was it set up?
The map was set up on October 24. In a post on the All Of Us Together Facebook page, the group said: "We’ve created a live map of all of the organisations, restaurants and cafes offering free school meals for children during half term."
How to find free school meals near you
To view the map, go to: https://allofustogether.uk/.
Can I add a contribution?
Yes, the group are accepting submissions from areas across the country. To make a contribution, visit: https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSct2Y4Vl63EOD.../viewform.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Warning issued over dangerous 'zombie batteries' - and why you shouldn't put them in the bin

Households across the UK have been urged not to throw away old batteries in waste bins - after a surge in cases of fires at waste and recycling plants nationwide .
While it might appear that dead batteries are harmless after use - experts have warned they run the risk of causing fires at recycling centres , after getting punctured and leaking hazardous waste during processing .
So how can you dispose of old batteries safely ?
We 've put together everything you need to know .
'Surge in fires at recycling centres due to zombie batteries' New figures released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) on October 26 revealed that lithium-ion batteries were the suspected cause of 38 per cent of fires at waste treatment plants between April 2019 and March 2020 .
This equates to lithium-ion batteries potentially causing around 250 fires a year .
Earlier this year , recycling and waste disposal service company Veolia , which provides services to more than 25 local authorities across the UK , said fires in waste centres had risen by 37.5 per cent since 2017 .
How to dispose of batteries safely ESA executive director , Jacob Hayler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carelessly discarded batteries endanger lives , cause millions of pounds of damage , and disrupt waste services .
“ We urge consumers to please recycle batteries responsibly by using battery recycling points in shops and recycling centres , or a separate battery kerbside collection if available.
” The Take Charge website has more information about where to recycle batteries responsibly nearest to you .
Used batteries can be sent for recycling by placing them into collection containers found at many results outlets and public buildings across the country .
Battery recycling laws came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now most shops and supermarkets that sell batteries have to have collection bins in-store for used batteries .
You can also find them in some town halls , libraries and schools .
These boxes will then be taken by compliance schemes , such as Valpak , which takes the batteries away to be recycled .
Sorting your batteries can help the recycling process .
This is because batteries are made from different chemistries .
Different types of batteries include lithium-ion - which are commonly used for laptops - zinc ( which is used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cadmium batteries , which are used for power tools .
You can also recycle batteries at many Household Waste Recycling Centres ( HWRCs ) .
Type your postcode into the recycle-more recycling locator to find where you can recy

While it might appear that dead batteries are harmless after use - experts have warned they run the risk of causing fires at recycling centres, after getting punctured and leaking hazardous waste during processing.
So how can you dispose of old batteries safely? We've put together everything you need to know.
'Surge in fires at recycling centres due to zombie batteries'
New figures released by the Environmental Services Association (ESA) on October 26 revealed that lithium-ion batteries were the suspected cause of 38 per cent of fires at waste treatment plants between April 2019 and March 2020.
This equates to lithium-ion batteries potentially causing around 250 fires a year.
Earlier this year, recycling and waste disposal service company Veolia, which provides services to more than 25 local authorities across the UK, said fires in waste centres had risen by 37.5 per cent since 2017.
How to dispose of batteries safely
ESA executive director, Jacob Hayler, said: “Fires caused by carelessly discarded batteries endanger lives, cause millions of pounds of damage, and disrupt waste services.
“We urge consumers to please recycle batteries responsibly by using battery recycling points in shops and recycling centres, or a separate battery kerbside collection if available.”
The Take Charge website has more information about where to recycle batteries responsibly nearest to you.
Used batteries can be sent for recycling by placing them into collection containers found at many results outlets and public buildings across the country.
Battery recycling laws came into force in February 2010, and now most shops and supermarkets that sell batteries have to have collection bins in-store for used batteries. You can also find them in some town halls, libraries and schools.
These boxes will then be taken by compliance schemes, such as Valpak, which takes the batteries away to be recycled.
Sorting your batteries can help the recycling process. This is because batteries are made from different chemistries.
Different types of batteries include lithium-ion - which are commonly used for laptops - zinc (which is used in AA batteries), and nickel cadmium batteries, which are used for power tools.
You can also recycle batteries at many Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs). Type your postcode into the recycle-more recycling locator to find where you can recy


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Baby rhino gets a Halloween surprise at West Midland Safari Park

WEST Midland Safari Park 's newest arrival , Indian rhino calf Inesh , was treated to a spooky surprise to celebrate his first Halloween .
Seven weeks ago , Inesh was the first Indian rhino to be born on-site and is one of four Indian rhinos residing at the park .
Keepers got into the Halloween spirit over half-term , adding two surprise pumpkins into the youngster ’ s large grassy paddock , which Inesh has been venturing into for the first time this week as he starts to explore more of the safari alongside his mum Seto .
Although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice for rhino treats , the park is currently abundant with pumpkins - part of the decorations for the annual Spooky Spectacular event , which is running until Sunday , November 1 .
With over 1,100 pumpkins used as part of this year ’ s event - and to save them going to waste - keepers often swap to pumpkins treats for a range of animals during the Halloween season .
Senior ungulate keeper Sarah Cartwright said : “ The rhinos love investigating new things so as we only have pumpkins over Halloween @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Inesh had never seen one before so he was very interested in what it was .
`` Once mum Seto had given the all clear and squashed it slightly by standing on it , the pumpkin was suddenly an even better treat .
The rhinos like to stand on them as it squishes them into bite-sized pieces .
Seven-week-old Inesh is spending his first Halloween at West Midland Safari Park “ Inesh and Seto are doing really well together .
She is a fantastic first-time mum , and he sticks very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he will lay under a hay rack whilst she eats so he can have a snooze with her watching over him .
“ Guests seem to be really enjoying having a rhino calf bouncing around the place and he creates quite a crowd when he 's zooming around the paddocks .
`` Although Inesh will never fully understand how important he is to the future of their species , we really hope that our guests get to understand just know just how special he is , and we can continue to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Visitors to the park may have spotted Inesh sticking close to his mum while out on the reserve .
Now weighing approximately 95 kilograms , Inesh has been growing well and is alternating between his two paddocks , where he enjoys a run around under the watchful eye of mum .
To celebrate the spookiest of seasons , West Midland Safari Park is adorned with plenty of pumpkins and 55 illuminated scarecrows , which guests will be able to see in all their glory when they are illuminated after dark during the park @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The park is also running a competition throughout the event , giving guests a change to win an annual family pass .
Anyone looking to be in with a chance to win needs to take their picture at one of the park ’ s spooky locations and upload it to Instagram or the park ’ s Facebook page , tagging # WMSP .
Guests are also encouraged to attend in Halloween fancy dress to join in with the frightful fun .
Spooky Spectacular runs to November 1 and is included in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , £20 for children aged three to 15 and £22 for concessions .
Children under the age of three are free of charge .
Admission includes a free return visit .

Seven weeks ago, Inesh was the first Indian rhino to be born on-site and is one of four Indian rhinos residing at the park.
Keepers got into the Halloween spirit over half-term, adding two surprise pumpkins into the youngster’s large grassy paddock, which Inesh has been venturing into for the first time this week as he starts to explore more of the safari alongside his mum Seto.
Indian rhinos Seto and baby Inesh
Although carrots and apples are usually the first choice for rhino treats, the park is currently abundant with pumpkins - part of the decorations for the annual Spooky Spectacular event, which is running until Sunday, November 1.
With over 1,100 pumpkins used as part of this year’s event - and to save them going to waste - keepers often swap to pumpkins treats for a range of animals during the Halloween season.
Senior ungulate keeper Sarah Cartwright said: “The rhinos love investigating new things so as we only have pumpkins over Halloween, it means they really enjoy them.
"Inesh had never seen one before so he was very interested in what it was.
"Once mum Seto had given the all clear and squashed it slightly by standing on it, the pumpkin was suddenly an even better treat.
The rhinos like to stand on them as it squishes them into bite-sized pieces.
Seven-week-old Inesh is spending his first Halloween at West Midland Safari Park
“Inesh and Seto are doing really well together. She is a fantastic first-time mum, and he sticks very close by her. In the evenings, he will lay under a hay rack whilst she eats so he can have a snooze with her watching over him.
“Guests seem to be really enjoying having a rhino calf bouncing around the place and he creates quite a crowd when he's zooming around the paddocks.
"Although Inesh will never fully understand how important he is to the future of their species, we really hope that our guests get to understand just know just how special he is, and we can continue to build even more awareness of rhino conservation.”
Visitors to the park may have spotted Inesh sticking close to his mum while out on the reserve.
Now weighing approximately 95 kilograms, Inesh has been growing well and is alternating between his two paddocks, where he enjoys a run around under the watchful eye of mum.
To celebrate the spookiest of seasons, West Midland Safari Park is adorned with plenty of pumpkins and 55 illuminated scarecrows, which guests will be able to see in all their glory when they are illuminated after dark during the park’s extended opening hours during half-term.
The park is also running a competition throughout the event, giving guests a change to win an annual family pass.
Indian rhino mum Seto inspecting a Halloween pumpkin at West Midland Safari Park
Anyone looking to be in with a chance to win needs to take their picture at one of the park’s spooky locations and upload it to Instagram or the park’s Facebook page, tagging #WMSP.
Guests are also encouraged to attend in Halloween fancy dress to join in with the frightful fun.
Spooky Spectacular runs to November 1 and is included in the standard admission charge of £25 for adults, £20 for children aged three to 15 and £22 for concessions.
Children under the age of three are free of charge. Admission includes a free return visit.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Last day to have your say on Kidderminster energy park plan

IT 'S the last day for residents to have their say on major plans for a new Energy and Resource Park in Kidderminster .
Power Generation Midlands ( PGM ) , the company set up to run the £30 million project , wants to develop an energy centre , using non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste to generate energy , and a plastics recovery plant , to turn plastic waste into a material that can then be recycled into new products , on land next to the Liberty Aluminium foundry in Stourport Road .
PGM says the park will generate low @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would otherwise end up in landfill , but campaign group Wyre Forest Against Incineration ( WFAI ) says it would make Wyre Forest the `` Midlands epicentre of a polluting waste industry '' , drawing in waste and plastics for processing in the district from miles around .
An artist 's impression of the Energy and Resource Park planned in Kidderminster Developers say the park will divert around 105,000 tonnes of waste from landfill every year , including 30,000 tonnes of plastic which could be turned into granules for new products such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Damian Courtney told The Shuttle in May : “ The energy and resource park will take waste from the local area which is destined for landfill and , rather than burying it in the ground , we ’ ll use it to create low carbon energy , helping to reduce the use of fossil fuels .
`` We ’ re also excited to be providing a solution for plastic waste which is a huge problem facing society . ''
As part of the plans , energy produced at the park would be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundry next door .
The park itself is expected to create 60 construction jobs and 25 permanent jobs once complete , while the power provided to Liberty Aluminium would allow the foundry to expand its operations in the town - investing £8 million and creating a further 100 jobs .
Anti-incinerator campaigners say the park would cause harmful pollution in the local area .
Wyre Forest Against Incineration campaign group members Clare Cassidy and Doug Hine at the development site in Stourport Road In October , WFAI member Dave Finch , from Friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The incinerator will operate for years , polluting the air , adding to global warming , and destroying materials which could be put to good use .
The planet can not take any more pollution .
We need to cut out waste , not burn it.
” Community activist Stephen Brown said : `` The dangers are hidden and long term so by the time you ’ re aware of what harm it ’ s caused you , it ’ s too late .
So act now to stop it.
” The group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase of lorry traffic on Kidderminster 's roads .
The deadline for people to submit their views on the planning application is Thursday , October 29 .
Visit worcestershire.gov.uk/pawyreforest .

Power Generation Midlands (PGM), the company set up to run the £30 million project, wants to develop an energy centre, using non-hazardous commercial and industrial waste to generate energy, and a plastics recovery plant, to turn plastic waste into a material that can then be recycled into new products, on land next to the Liberty Aluminium foundry in Stourport Road.
PGM says the park will generate low carbon energy and recover plastic waste that would otherwise end up in landfill, but campaign group Wyre Forest Against Incineration (WFAI) says it would make Wyre Forest the "Midlands epicentre of a polluting waste industry", drawing in waste and plastics for processing in the district from miles around.
An artist's impression of the Energy and Resource Park planned in Kidderminster
Developers say the park will divert around 105,000 tonnes of waste from landfill every year, including 30,000 tonnes of plastic which could be turned into granules for new products such as garden furniture and decking.
PGM's Damian Courtney told The Shuttle in May: “The energy and resource park will take waste from the local area which is destined for landfill and, rather than burying it in the ground, we’ll use it to create low carbon energy, helping to reduce the use of fossil fuels.
"We’re also excited to be providing a solution for plastic waste which is a huge problem facing society."
As part of the plans, energy produced at the park would be used to supply electricity and heat to the foundry next door.
The park itself is expected to create 60 construction jobs and 25 permanent jobs once complete, while the power provided to Liberty Aluminium would allow the foundry to expand its operations in the town - investing £8 million and creating a further 100 jobs.
Anti-incinerator campaigners say the park would cause harmful pollution in the local area.
Wyre Forest Against Incineration campaign group members Clare Cassidy and Doug Hine at the development site in Stourport Road
In October, WFAI member Dave Finch, from Friends of the Earth, said: “The incinerator will operate for years, polluting the air, adding to global warming, and destroying materials which could be put to good use. The planet cannot take any more pollution. We need to cut out waste, not burn it.”
Community activist Stephen Brown said: "The dangers are hidden and long term so by the time you’re aware of what harm it’s caused you, it’s too late. So act now to stop it.”
The group has also raised concerns about the resulting increase of lorry traffic on Kidderminster's roads.
The deadline for people to submit their views on the planning application is Thursday, October 29. Visit worcestershire.gov.uk/pawyreforest.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-29--Woman taken to hospital after crash with van in Kidderminster

A WOMAN was exricated from her car by firefighters following a crash involving a van in Kidderminster .
Two ambulances @ @ @ @ @ of the crash at the junction of Stourport Road and Sutton Road just after 5.30am @ @ @ @ @ 29 ) .
A car and a van had been involved in a crash .
@ @ @ @ @ Forest Hub fire station were called to the scene shortly afterwards at 6.08am .
Firefighters @ @ @ @ @ was driving the car , from her vehicle and she was treated for injuries at @ @ @ @ @ to hospital .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were @ @ @ @ @ of an RTC between a car and van at the junction of Stourport Road and @ @ @ @ @ `` We treated one patient , a woman , who was the driver of the @ @ @ @ @ believed to be serious and she was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further treatment.
@ @ @ @ @ by police while emergency services were at the scene .

Two ambulances were called to the scene of the crash at the junction of Stourport Road and Sutton Road just after 5.30am on Thursday morning (October 29).
A car and a van had been involved in a crash.
Two crews from the Wyre Forest Hub fire station were called to the scene shortly afterwards at 6.08am.
Firefighters extricated a woman, who was driving the car, from her vehicle and she was treated for injuries at the scene before being taken to hospital.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called at 5:38am to reports of an RTC between a car and van at the junction of Stourport Road and Sutton Road in Kidderminster.
"Two ambulances attended the scene.
"We treated one patient, a woman, who was the driver of the car, for injuries not believed to be serious and she was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further treatment.”
The road was closed by police while emergency services were at the scene.