kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Captain Tom Moore celebrates his 100th birthday

National hero Captain Tom Moore celebrates his 100th birthday today and thanks our readers for helping him raise almost £30 million for the NHS .
The old soldier – whose incredible fund raising efforts during the coronavirus pandemic have made him a national treasure - took time out to deliver a personal message to readers who have donated to his cause .
As he prepared to read goodwill messages in some of the 125,000 birthday cards sent by well-wishers from across the globe , Captain Tom told our readers : `` I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the paper for their help .
You have shown me so much love .
`` When we started off with this exercise , we did n't anticipate we 'd get anything near that sort of money .
It 's really amazing . ''
Captain Tom , who was born in Keighley and now lives in Marston Moretaine , Bedfordshire , hoped to raise a few thousand pounds for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday .
His efforts proved an inspiration to people coming to terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in from all over the world .
With the total standing at almost £30m last night , the former Army officer , who served in Burma during the Second World War , holds the record for the largest sum ever raised in by an individual charity walk .
99-year-old war veteran Captain Tom Moore , with ( left to right ) grandson Benji , daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore and granddaughter Georgia , at his home in Marston Moretaine , Bedfordshire , after he achieved his goal of 100 laps of his garden He also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oldest person to have a number-one single in the UK charts after recording 'You 'll Never Walk Alone ' with singer Michael Ball .
And he is n't finished yet .
Looking forward , Captain Tom told us : `` I 'd like to say a big thank you to all the readers who have sent me birthday congratulations .
`` The tremendous British Public have shown me so much love .
You have repurposed and re-energised me , and for that I will be forever grateful . ''
But not as grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken hope and inspiration from your incredible achievement Captain Tom .
We say `` Many happy returns '' .

The old soldier – whose incredible fund raising efforts during the coronavirus pandemic have made him a national treasure - took time out to deliver a personal message to readers who have donated to his cause.
As he prepared to read goodwill messages in some of the 125,000 birthday cards sent by well-wishers from across the globe, Captain Tom told our readers: "I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to the tremendous British Public and especially the readers of the paper for their help. You have shown me so much love.
"When we started off with this exercise, we didn't anticipate we'd get anything near that sort of money. It's really amazing."
Captain Tom, who was born in Keighley and now lives in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, hoped to raise a few thousand pounds for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.
His efforts proved an inspiration to people coming to terms with the coronavirus pandemic and donations poured in from all over the world.
With the total standing at almost £30m last night, the former Army officer, who served in Burma during the Second World War, holds the record for the largest sum ever raised in by an individual charity walk.
99-year-old war veteran Captain Tom Moore, with (left to right) grandson Benji, daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore and granddaughter Georgia, at his home in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, after he achieved his goal of 100 laps of his garden
He also holds a second world record as the oldest person to have a number-one single in the UK charts after recording 'You'll Never Walk Alone' with singer Michael Ball.
And he isn't finished yet.
Looking forward, Captain Tom told us: "I'd like to say a big thank you to all the readers who have sent me birthday congratulations.
"The tremendous British Public have shown me so much love. You have repurposed and re-energised me, and for that I will be forever grateful."
But not as grateful as the millions of people who have taken hope and inspiration from your incredible achievement Captain Tom.
We say "Many happy returns".
Captain Tom Moore with the Guinness Record certificate. Picture Emma Sohl


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Mum thanks Worcestershire Royal Hospital after coronavirus battle

A CORONAVIRUS survivor has thanked Worcestershire Royal Hospital staff for saving her life after she was reunited with her husband and nine-year-old daughter following 17 days apart .
Mum-of-one Heather Jones admits she had `` given up all hope of surviving '' after being rushed to hospital with a temperature of 40 degrees on April 9 and testing positive for the virus two days later .
The 49-year-old , who lives in Areley Kings , said : `` I 'd been suffering with a cough , dry throat , violent headaches , aching limbs , dizziness and fatigue for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for others after beating coronavirus '' On the Thursday evening , I got my daughter ready for bed , but I was struggling for breath in between coughing fits .
`` I knew I was in serious trouble and while I had tried to manage my covid-19 symptoms at home , I had no choice but to call an ambulance . ''
Heather had already lost a close family member to the virus the week before and was rushed to hospital by ambulance on blue lights .
`` I was frightened , crying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breath , '' she said .
`` The medics worked very hard on me and got the liquid antibiotics straight into my system .
`` I was also advised of cracking on my lungs .
`` The next three days or so passed by in a blur .
I felt myself drifting between being asleep and awake but was too frightened to go to sleep that first night .
`` I really do n't know how I got through those three days .
I thought I was going to die .
I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frightening .
`` The idea of leaving my daughter without a mummy , it tortured me .
`` I kept asking the nurses if I was going to die and they would say they did n't know .
But I had full faith in them .
They were constantly looking after me .
`` I ca n't thank them enough .
They saved my life . ''
On Easter Sunday , Heather was given the good news that she would be discharged the following day , although she would need to stay apart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It was then I realised the threat to my life had passed , '' said Heather .
`` On being discharged , I had my photo taken with the team of life-saving medics .
`` I said I 'm going to clap you , but they clapped me as well .
I cried tears of joy .
I was finally going back to my life . ''
After being reunited with her family on Sunday , Heather has pledged to write a book about her experiences , named The Covid Diaries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' surgeries in Stourport .
She has also set up a fundraising page for the hospital heroes who saved her life .
`` Having lost a relative to the virus , I 've seen both sides of the illness , '' said Heather .
`` It was the biggest battle of my life .
It 's left me with a lot of guilt that I have survived and others have n't .
`` I know I can never fully repay the debt but would like to show my gratitude to our wonderful NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justgiving.com/fundraising/heatherjones-heroes .

Mum-of-one Heather Jones admits she had "given up all hope of surviving" after being rushed to hospital with a temperature of 40 degrees on April 9 and testing positive for the virus two days later.
The 49-year-old, who lives in Areley Kings, said: "I'd been suffering with a cough, dry throat, violent headaches, aching limbs, dizziness and fatigue for a week.
"On the Thursday evening, I got my daughter ready for bed, but I was struggling for breath in between coughing fits.
"I knew I was in serious trouble and while I had tried to manage my covid-19 symptoms at home, I had no choice but to call an ambulance."
Heather had already lost a close family member to the virus the week before and was rushed to hospital by ambulance on blue lights.
Heather Jones fights coronavirus in hospital
"I was frightened, crying and shaking as well as gasping for breath," she said. "The medics worked very hard on me and got the liquid antibiotics straight into my system.
"I was also advised of cracking on my lungs.
"The next three days or so passed by in a blur. I felt myself drifting between being asleep and awake but was too frightened to go to sleep that first night.
"I really don't know how I got through those three days. I thought I was going to die. I was that close to death, it was frightening.
Heather with nine-year-old daughter Mia
"The idea of leaving my daughter without a mummy, it tortured me.
"I kept asking the nurses if I was going to die and they would say they didn't know. But I had full faith in them. They were constantly looking after me.
"I can't thank them enough. They saved my life."
On Easter Sunday, Heather was given the good news that she would be discharged the following day, although she would need to stay apart from her family until her symptoms subsided.
Heather Jones with life-saving staff at Worcestershire Royal Hospital
"It was then I realised the threat to my life had passed," said Heather. "On being discharged, I had my photo taken with the team of life-saving medics.
"I said I'm going to clap you, but they clapped me as well. I cried tears of joy. I was finally going back to my life."
After being reunited with her family on Sunday, Heather has pledged to write a book about her experiences, named The Covid Diaries, and donate the proceeds to doctors' surgeries in Stourport.
She has also set up a fundraising page for the hospital heroes who saved her life.
Heather Jones leaves hospital after a life-and-death battle with coronavirus
"Having lost a relative to the virus, I've seen both sides of the illness," said Heather. "It was the biggest battle of my life. It's left me with a lot of guilt that I have survived and others haven't.
"I know I can never fully repay the debt but would like to show my gratitude to our wonderful NHS."
To donate, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/heatherjones-heroes.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Woman completes driveway marathon for Epilepsy Society

A RUNNING enthusiast has beaten the odds to complete the equivalent of the London Marathon for a cause very close to her heart- all from her driveway in Far Forest .
Katy Broome was set to run the London Marathon last Sunday to raise cash for the Epilepsy Society , but her plans were halted due to the coronavirus crisis .
The challenge had a personal meaning for Katy as she has lived with epilepsy for 12 years since being diagnosed with the condition aged 20-years-old .
Determined to raise money and complete the challenge , Katy completed 262 laps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , clocking up 26.2 miles .
The moment Katy crossed the finishing line on her driveway She was joined for half of the challenge by her beloved springer spaniel Ruby Roo and she was cheered on by her mum Lesley Willis-Bowen and sister Jessica Carter .
Her neighbours also gave their support from their driveways , with one neighbour even giving Katy a gunshot salute for her efforts .
Katy displayed her perseverance to complete the challenge when she had a seizure three miles into the run , but got up and continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Cleobury Running Club for raising her confidence as she adapted her life to living with epilepsy .
She said : `` It 's my escape , it 's more than running club , I 've got some great friends there .
`` For a while I felt ashamed and embarrassed and never used to talk about my epilepsy .
Running has helped me both physically and mentally . ''
Katy completed the run in six hours and 40 minutes and has so far raised £601 for the Epilepsy Society , smashing her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made here .
She said : `` It was more about the goal , it did n't matter about the time .
I just thought , ' I 'm going to do this ' .
`` I 've had to adapt my life to make the most of the situation .
Running is great for me and I 've had so much support from my family and friends . ''
Katy 's form of epilepsy can not be controlled by medication , but she received positive news last December that neurosurgery may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : `` I was told my epilepsy is curable which is positive news .
Now it is a waiting game to see when I can have the surgery . ''

Katy Broome was set to run the London Marathon last Sunday to raise cash for the Epilepsy Society, but her plans were halted due to the coronavirus crisis.
The challenge had a personal meaning for Katy as she has lived with epilepsy for 12 years since being diagnosed with the condition aged 20-years-old.
Determined to raise money and complete the challenge, Katy completed 262 laps of her driveway on Sunday April 16, clocking up 26.2 miles.
The moment Katy crossed the finishing line on her driveway
She was joined for half of the challenge by her beloved springer spaniel Ruby Roo and she was cheered on by her mum Lesley Willis-Bowen and sister Jessica Carter.
Her neighbours also gave their support from their driveways, with one neighbour even giving Katy a gunshot salute for her efforts.
Katy displayed her perseverance to complete the challenge when she had a seizure three miles into the run, but got up and continued running.
The 32-year-old credits her time with Cleobury Running Club for raising her confidence as she adapted her life to living with epilepsy.
She said: "It's my escape, it's more than running club, I've got some great friends there.
"For a while I felt ashamed and embarrassed and never used to talk about my epilepsy. Running has helped me both physically and mentally."
Katy completed the run in six hours and 40 minutes and has so far raised £601 for the Epilepsy Society, smashing her target of £350. Donations can be made here.
She said: "It was more about the goal, it didn't matter about the time. I just thought, 'I'm going to do this'.
"I've had to adapt my life to make the most of the situation. Running is great for me and I've had so much support from my family and friends."
Katy's form of epilepsy cannot be controlled by medication, but she received positive news last December that neurosurgery may be an option in the future.
She added: "I was told my epilepsy is curable which is positive news. Now it is a waiting game to see when I can have the surgery."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Stourport High School makes 300 vital face shields for frontline

HARD-working design and technology staff at Stourport High School are on track to produce 300 face shields to provide vital protection to frontline staff in the fight against Covid-19 .
Head of faculty Cat Middleton has joined forces with teacher Geogiana Baxter to make 235 pieces of the vital kit , which are being sent out to protect frontline workers .
The pair are set to produce a further 65 shields this week , which will see them reach their target to make 300 .
Georgiana said : “ We have been happy to help the community as best we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skills and equipment .
It is a small token of our appreciation for the hard work and commitment of these workers , who put themselves at risk to help others.
” The shields have been donated to St Richard ’ s , Acorns Children 's and Kemp Hospices , the children 's ward at Worcester Royal Hospital , Knightwick GP surgery and care homes including The Gables Rest Home , Coombe House , Areley House and Poppies Residential Home .
Individual carers in the community have also received the life-protecting shields .
Georgiana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , alongside other technology equipment provided like ear savers , scrub and scrub bags , shows how important design technology is as a subject and we hope it will encourage more students to want to take it in the future.
” Chris King , chief executive of the Severn Academies Educational Trust which runs the school , said : `` Mrs Middleton and Mrs Baxter have worked very hard to make this vital PPE whilst juggling many other demands on their time , and are superb role models to our students .
”

Head of faculty Cat Middleton has joined forces with teacher Geogiana Baxter to make 235 pieces of the vital kit, which are being sent out to protect frontline workers.
The pair are set to produce a further 65 shields this week, which will see them reach their target to make 300.
Georgiana said: “We have been happy to help the community as best we can in these unprecedented times using our skills and equipment. It is a small token of our appreciation for the hard work and commitment of these workers, who put themselves at risk to help others.”
The shields have been donated to St Richard’s, Acorns Children's and Kemp Hospices, the children's ward at Worcester Royal Hospital, Knightwick GP surgery and care homes including The Gables Rest Home, Coombe House, Areley House and Poppies Residential Home.
Individual carers in the community have also received the life-protecting shields.
Georgiana added: "We really feel this, alongside other technology equipment provided like ear savers, scrub and scrub bags, shows how important design technology is as a subject and we hope it will encourage more students to want to take it in the future.”
Chris King, chief executive of the Severn Academies Educational Trust which runs the school, said: "Mrs Middleton and Mrs Baxter have worked very hard to make this vital PPE whilst juggling many other demands on their time, and are superb role models to our students.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Missing Kidderminster man found

Missing Kidderminster man found

A MISSING man from Kidderminster has been found following a police appeal .
Wyre Forest Police issued a missing persons @ @ @ @ @ 29 ) for information on the whereabouts of David Young .
Officers have since confirmed @ @ @ @ @ found safe and well .
They thanked members of the public for sharing the appeal @

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--2020-04-30--Oasis and Warehouse collapse: More than 1,800 jobs set to be lost

More than 1,800 jobs are set to be lost at Oasis and Warehouse as administrators said they were unable to rescue the company behind the brands .
Deloitte said that all stores will close indefinitely and online sales will be stopped .
The failure to save any part of Oasis Warehouse Limited , the company behind the two brands , along with The Idle Man and Bastyan Fashions , will result in the loss of 1,803 jobs .
Deloitte said it had sold the intellectual property and the company ’ s stock to restructuring expert Hilco Capital , but Hilco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the business .
What has the administrator said ?
Administrator Rob Harding said : “ Covid-19 has presented extraordinary challenges which have devastated the retail industry .
It is with great sadness that we have to announce a sale of the business has not been possible and that we are announcing so many redundancies today.
” He added : “ This is a very difficult time for the group ’ s employees and other key stakeholders and we will do everything we can to support them through this .
“ We would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other key stakeholders in the group for their continued support . ''

Deloitte said that all stores will close indefinitely and online sales will be stopped.
The failure to save any part of Oasis Warehouse Limited, the company behind the two brands, along with The Idle Man and Bastyan Fashions, will result in the loss of 1,803 jobs.
Deloitte said it had sold the intellectual property and the company’s stock to restructuring expert Hilco Capital, but Hilco had decided not to buy the rest of the business.
What has the administrator said?
Administrator Rob Harding said: “Covid-19 has presented extraordinary challenges which have devastated the retail industry. It is with great sadness that we have to announce a sale of the business has not been possible and that we are announcing so many redundancies today.”
He added: “This is a very difficult time for the group’s employees and other key stakeholders and we will do everything we can to support them through this.
“We would like to thank all the employees and other key stakeholders in the group for their continued support."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Why pubs may limit drinkers to three pints once lockdown is lifted

A number of changes could be implemented once shops , leisure facilities and pubs reopen their doors in the coming months .
Here 's what you need to know .
When pubs reopen for business , patrons could be limited to three drinks each before being asked to head home , in order to free up space for others to visit , a government advisor has suggested .
The strict rules would also include maintaining a social distance of two metres while inside , with landlords able to issue fines to those who flout the rules .
The terms are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government advisor , Professor Eyal Winter , who said social distancing is the key to coming out of lockdown .
He also argued that the public need to know what the government has planned in terms of a lockdown exit strategy .
Speaking to The Guardian , he said : “ People are starving for pubs .
They are an important part of British culture .
“ One of the most important things is to have a programme , to say , ‘ In two weeks we will do such and such.
’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crystal clear , and to explain to the public the rationale behind each one of them.
” When are pubs likely to reopen ?
Professor Winter estimated that it will take “ a lot of time ” to move back to how life was in January 2020 , but was certain that the country “ will get there ” .
The Mail Online has reported that a possible exit plan could see the UK come out of lockdown in phases .
The public would allegedly be allowed back into outdoor spaces first , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as the lockdown was lifted .
Cabinet Office minister , Michael Gove , confirmed that areas of hospitality will be among the last to see restrictions lifted .
When asked whether pubs would open “ before winter ” , Mr Gove told Sky News : “ The other inference that I draw from your question , which is that areas of hospitality will be among the last to exit the lockdown - yes , that is true.
” What about cinemas and theatres ?
Professor Winter has also been advising ministers on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and said cinemas and theatres could also reopen , but must have half empty auditoriums .
Every other seat would have to be unoccupied , but he said venues could make up for the loss of money by raising ticket prices .

Here's what you need to know.
What social distancing rules could pubs face?
When pubs reopen for business, patrons could be limited to three drinks each before being asked to head home, in order to free up space for others to visit, a government advisor has suggested.
The strict rules would also include maintaining a social distance of two metres while inside, with landlords able to issue fines to those who flout the rules.
The terms are outlined in a plan by economist and government advisor, Professor Eyal Winter, who said social distancing is the key to coming out of lockdown. He also argued that the public need to know what the government has planned in terms of a lockdown exit strategy.
Speaking to The Guardian, he said: “People are starving for pubs. They are an important part of British culture.
“One of the most important things is to have a programme, to say, ‘In two weeks we will do such and such.’
“You need to make the rules crystal clear, and to explain to the public the rationale behind each one of them.”
When are pubs likely to reopen?
Professor Winter estimated that it will take “a lot of time” to move back to how life was in January 2020, but was certain that the country “will get there”.
The Mail Online has reported that a possible exit plan could see the UK come out of lockdown in phases. The public would allegedly be allowed back into outdoor spaces first, with pubs being the last to open, as the lockdown was lifted.
Cabinet Office minister, Michael Gove, confirmed that areas of hospitality will be among the last to see restrictions lifted.
When asked whether pubs would open “before winter”, Mr Gove told Sky News: “The other inference that I draw from your question, which is that areas of hospitality will be among the last to exit the lockdown - yes, that is true.”
What about cinemas and theatres?
Professor Winter has also been advising ministers on how to go about lifting lockdown, and said cinemas and theatres could also reopen, but must have half empty auditoriums.
Every other seat would have to be unoccupied, but he said venues could make up for the loss of money by raising ticket prices.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--New Kidderminster traffic lorry named after Colonel Tom Moore

THE newest vehicle at a Kidderminster traffic management firm has been named after national hero Colonel Tom Moore .
Signal Traffic Management has paid tribute to the veteran - whose incredible fund raising efforts during the coronavirus pandemic have made him a national treasure - by naming one of its three new IPVs in his honour .
The company , which manages road closures and is based at Hoobrook Industrial Estate , held a competition to name the lorry and raise money for the NHS .
Business development manager Luke Swatman said : `` Signal are always doing our own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS at this time .
`` We launched a campaign for NHS Charities Together and have raised £1,000 to name the IPV .
`` Loads of people got involved and we announced the winner today - it just happened be on Captain Tom 's birthday .
`` Matt Eaton , who is the managing director here , himself served in British Army and the Welsh National Guard so it ties in nicely .
`` We were inspired by Captain Tom 's fundraising for the NHS - the whole nation has got behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been printed in bright pink letters on the front of the IPV , which took to the roads on Thursday ( April 30 ) .
Signal has doubled the £500 raised in donations , with all the money going to support workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis .
Further donations can be made at justgiving.com/fundraising/signal-traffic-management-ltd .
Colonel Tom , previously Captain Tom , who was born in Keighley and now lives in Marston Moretaine , Bedfordshire , hoped to raise a few thousand pounds for the NHS by walking 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ birthday .
His efforts proved an inspiration to people coming to terms with the coronavirus pandemic and donations poured in from all over the world .
With the total standing at almost £30m last night , the former Army officer , who served in Burma during the Second World War , holds the record for the largest sum ever raised in by an individual charity walk .

Signal Traffic Management has paid tribute to the veteran - whose incredible fund raising efforts during the coronavirus pandemic have made him a national treasure - by naming one of its three new IPVs in his honour.
The company, which manages road closures and is based at Hoobrook Industrial Estate, held a competition to name the lorry and raise money for the NHS.
Business development manager Luke Swatman said: "Signal are always doing our own charity fundraising but wanted to get behind the NHS at this time.
"We launched a campaign for NHS Charities Together and have raised £1,000 to name the IPV.
"Loads of people got involved and we announced the winner today - it just happened be on Captain Tom's birthday.
"Matt Eaton, who is the managing director here, himself served in British Army and the Welsh National Guard so it ties in nicely.
"We were inspired by Captain Tom's fundraising for the NHS - the whole nation has got behind him."
The name Captain Tom has been printed in bright pink letters on the front of the IPV, which took to the roads on Thursday (April 30).
Signal has doubled the £500 raised in donations, with all the money going to support workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis.
Further donations can be made at justgiving.com/fundraising/signal-traffic-management-ltd.
Colonel Tom, previously Captain Tom, who was born in Keighley and now lives in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, hoped to raise a few thousand pounds for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.
His efforts proved an inspiration to people coming to terms with the coronavirus pandemic and donations poured in from all over the world.
With the total standing at almost £30m last night, the former Army officer, who served in Burma during the Second World War, holds the record for the largest sum ever raised in by an individual charity walk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Online lockdown concerts raise cash for homeless charities

A KIDDERMINSTER music teacher has taken her fundraising music concerts online to continue to help raise funds for the homeless during the coronavirus lockdown .
Musician Anna Downes has been organising the Music for Sanctuary charity concerts at venues across the Black Country and north Worcestershire since January 2019 .
The concerts , which Anna started after noticing an increase in rough sleepers , have raised £9,500 for charities helping the homeless since the initiative was launched .
Since the coronavirus outbreak , she has moved the performances online - publishing links so viewers can make a donation - and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virtual performances .
Anna , who is head of music at Thorns Collegiate Academy in Quarry Bank in the Black Country , said : `` The most vulnerable in society need help more than ever during this crisis . ''
The 43-year-old daughter of critically acclaimed composer Andrew Downes is organising the concerts in addition to home schooling her two children while self-isolating as she falls into the most vulnerable to coronavirus category as she has auto-immune conditions - inflammatory arthritis , thyroid disease and Crohn 's disease .
Money from previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Stourbridge , the Salvation Army and HELP in Kidderminster - and these latest online concerts have been pulling in money for Wyre Forest Nightstop , Black Country Foodbank , Good Shepherd Ministries Wolverhampton .
The concerts can be seen online at musicforsanctuary.org and on the group 's Facebook , Twitter and YouTube pages and donations can be made via the Facebook page 'Music for Sanctuary - Concerts in aid of local homeless charities ' .
Since March 20 Anna has uploaded 42 'Musical Moment ' concerts - one each day .
Pianists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Miriam Ridgway , tenor Matt Terrado , violinists Chloe Baker and Kathryn Masters , flute player Sonia England and oboe player Nadia Accili are among the musicians who have taken part in the initiative by staging virtual concerts from their homes .
Anna , a violinist , has also performed virtually with guitarist Chris Welch and with string and trumpet ensemble Trumpet Inspirations which also comprises Chloe Baker , Frank Stubbs , Carol Wheway and Joanne Stubbs .
Anna said : `` I have been delighted at how well the series of online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments from people who watch daily .
`` I think while people are stuck indoors they look forward to some music to brighten their day .
It 's also a way for musicians and audiences alike to feel that they are doing something to help .
`` The money raised will give continuing support to such worthwhile charities who provide shelter , food and holistic services for some of the most vulnerable people in society . ''

Musician Anna Downes has been organising the Music for Sanctuary charity concerts at venues across the Black Country and north Worcestershire since January 2019.
The concerts, which Anna started after noticing an increase in rough sleepers, have raised £9,500 for charities helping the homeless since the initiative was launched.
Since the coronavirus outbreak, she has moved the performances online - publishing links so viewers can make a donation - and to date she has raised £1,625 from the virtual performances.
Anna, who is head of music at Thorns Collegiate Academy in Quarry Bank in the Black Country, said: "The most vulnerable in society need help more than ever during this crisis."
The 43-year-old daughter of critically acclaimed composer Andrew Downes is organising the concerts in addition to home schooling her two children while self-isolating as she falls into the most vulnerable to coronavirus category as she has auto-immune conditions - inflammatory arthritis, thyroid disease and Crohn's disease.
Money from previous concerts has helped Leslie's Care Packages in Stourbridge, the Salvation Army and HELP in Kidderminster - and these latest online concerts have been pulling in money for Wyre Forest Nightstop, Black Country Foodbank, Good Shepherd Ministries Wolverhampton.
The concerts can be seen online at musicforsanctuary.org and on the group's Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages and donations can be made via the Facebook page 'Music for Sanctuary - Concerts in aid of local homeless charities'.
Since March 20 Anna has uploaded 42 'Musical Moment' concerts - one each day.
Pianists Tony Bridgewater and Duncan Honeybourne, soprano Miriam Ridgway, tenor Matt Terrado, violinists Chloe Baker and Kathryn Masters, flute player Sonia England and oboe player Nadia Accili are among the musicians who have taken part in the initiative by staging virtual concerts from their homes.
Anna, a violinist, has also performed virtually with guitarist Chris Welch and with string and trumpet ensemble Trumpet Inspirations which also comprises Chloe Baker, Frank Stubbs, Carol Wheway and Joanne Stubbs.
Seven-year-old violinist Rose McDonagh also staged a performance which raised £600.
Anna said: "I have been delighted at how well the series of online concerts has been received and the positive comments from people who watch daily.
"I think while people are stuck indoors they look forward to some music to brighten their day. It's also a way for musicians and audiences alike to feel that they are doing something to help.
"The money raised will give continuing support to such worthwhile charities who provide shelter, food and holistic services for some of the most vulnerable people in society."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Worcestershire recycling centres stay closed despite flytipping fears

WASTE and recycling centres across the county will stay closed despite calls for them to be reopened to stop the increase in fly tipping and bonfires .
Worcestershire County Council said its recycling centres , including those in Kidderminster and Stourport , will remain closed in line with the government ’ s advice on social distancing and non-essential travel during the coronavirus pandemic .
Labour councillors had called for a trial to see whether the centres could be opened for a few days .
Councillor Ceri Stalker said : “ I know county councillors from across the political spectrum have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centres to re-open , we have to recognise any openings must be able to respect social distancing and not be abused , I would welcome a trial for a few days to see how things work out .
“ I am very worried about the large increase in fly tipping and bonfires , both of which are very damaging to the environment and to health .
`` I hope to be able to constructively work with the Conservative county council to see how we can re-open the centres and allow people to safely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s my job to not only scrutinise the work of the administration , but to provide suggestions and ideas , let ’ s hope the administration will consider the options and work with me to help the public.
” Government advice has meant Wyre Forest 's recycling centres have been closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
Worcestershire County Council said it is working to ensure the centres can re-open as soon as it is safe to do so .
Cllr Tony Miller , cabinet member for environment , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with the current government regulations around staying at home and non-essential travel .
`` We appreciate residents ' frustrations on this matter and thank those residents who have been composting their grass cuttings at home , putting off DIY jobs until later in the year and storing waste safely at home until the sites re-open .
`` The council in partnership with our contractor are working on arrangements to safely re-open sites as and when there are changes in restrictions .
“ I ’ d also like to take the opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district council colleagues who have been working hard to ensure regular waste and recycling collections are maintained .
Please continue to stay at home , protect the NHS and save lives .
”

Worcestershire County Council said its recycling centres, including those in Kidderminster and Stourport, will remain closed in line with the government’s advice on social distancing and non-essential travel during the coronavirus pandemic.
Labour councillors had called for a trial to see whether the centres could be opened for a few days.
Councillor Ceri Stalker said: “I know county councillors from across the political spectrum have all received requests for the waste recycling centres to re-open, we have to recognise any openings must be able to respect social distancing and not be abused, I would welcome a trial for a few days to see how things work out.
“I am very worried about the large increase in fly tipping and bonfires, both of which are very damaging to the environment and to health.
"I hope to be able to constructively work with the Conservative county council to see how we can re-open the centres and allow people to safely dispose of their rubbish, it’s my job to not only scrutinise the work of the administration, but to provide suggestions and ideas, let’s hope the administration will consider the options and work with me to help the public.”
Government advice has meant Wyre Forest's recycling centres have been closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Worcestershire County Council said it is working to ensure the centres can re-open as soon as it is safe to do so.
Cllr Tony Miller, cabinet member for environment, said: “Our household recycling centres remain closed in line with the current government regulations around staying at home and non-essential travel.
"We appreciate residents' frustrations on this matter and thank those residents who have been composting their grass cuttings at home, putting off DIY jobs until later in the year and storing waste safely at home until the sites re-open.
"The council in partnership with our contractor are working on arrangements to safely re-open sites as and when there are changes in restrictions.
“I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank our borough, city and district council colleagues who have been working hard to ensure regular waste and recycling collections are maintained. Please continue to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Police searching Kidderminster for wanted man Mathew Lavelle

POLICE are continuing their search for Kidderminster man Mathew Lavelle who is wanted on recall to prison .
Officers have @ @ @ @ @ on Mr Lavelle 's whereabouts and believe he could be in the Springfield Park , @ @ @ @ @ .
The 37-year-old is wanted for breaching the terms of a court order .
A @ @ @ @ @ : `` We would like to thank the public for their response to this appeal @ @ @ @ @ to potentially be in the Springfield Park , Larkhill or Dovedail Avenue areas of Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ the public to still remain vigialint while officers are actively searching these areas . ''
@ @ @ @ @ Lavelle 's whereabouts should call West Mercia Police on 101 , quoting crime numbers 22/32864/20 @ @ @

Officers have renewed their appeal for information on Mr Lavelle's whereabouts and believe he could be in the Springfield Park, Larkhill or Dovedail Avenue areas.
The 37-year-old is wanted for breaching the terms of a court order.
A West Mercia Police spokesman said: "We would like to thank the public for their response to this appeal and officers now believe Lavelle to potentially be in the Springfield Park, Larkhill or Dovedail Avenue areas of Kidderminster.
"We would ask the public to still remain vigialint while officers are actively searching these areas."
Anyone with information on Mr Lavelle's whereabouts should call West Mercia Police on 101, quoting crime numbers 22/32864/20 or 22/32788/20.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Kidderminster Comberton Hill shops sell for near double guide price

A ROW of shops on Kidderminster 's Comberton Hill has sold for 81 per cent over its guide price after bidders were able to go head to head in an online auction room .
Property consultants Fisher German sold 101 to 104 Comberton Hill for £335,000 to an undisclosed buyer .
The 8,093 square feet of retail space , located near to Kidderminster Railway Station , reached £150,000 more than its £185,000 guide price , despite uncertain times in the market due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Lauren Allcoat , from Fisher German , who conducted the sale , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus and the government recommended restrictions , sale by traditional auction in a public place would simply not have been feasible and we would have had to postpone .
“ However , using the online auction method meant we were able to continue with the sale and prospective purchasers could submit their bids remotely while socially distancing themselves .
“ We agreed with our clients to set the guide price at a prudent yet attractive price level in light of the rental income being received and the nature of the property .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest and the property achieved a fantastic result , selling for 81 per cent above its guide price . ''
The properties are occupied by Footplate , Designs by Kim Johnson and Kidderminster Mirror and Glass .
Rob Champion , partner at Fisher German , added : “ We were extremely pleased with the result of Comberton Hill , and hope to see more opportunities of a similar nature coming forward before too long .
“ There are cash buyers out there for whom investment in certain forms of property will be particularly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken by the stock market .
”

Property consultants Fisher German sold 101 to 104 Comberton Hill for £335,000 to an undisclosed buyer.
The 8,093 square feet of retail space, located near to Kidderminster Railway Station, reached £150,000 more than its £185,000 guide price, despite uncertain times in the market due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Lauren Allcoat, from Fisher German, who conducted the sale, said: “Clearly with the onset of coronavirus and the government recommended restrictions, sale by traditional auction in a public place would simply not have been feasible and we would have had to postpone.
“However, using the online auction method meant we were able to continue with the sale and prospective purchasers could submit their bids remotely while socially distancing themselves.
“We agreed with our clients to set the guide price at a prudent yet attractive price level in light of the rental income being received and the nature of the property.
“This helped generate a strong amount of interest and the property achieved a fantastic result, selling for 81 per cent above its guide price."
The properties are occupied by Footplate, Designs by Kim Johnson and Kidderminster Mirror and Glass.
Rob Champion, partner at Fisher German, added: “We were extremely pleased with the result of Comberton Hill, and hope to see more opportunities of a similar nature coming forward before too long.
“There are cash buyers out there for whom investment in certain forms of property will be particularly attractive in light of the significant hit taken by the stock market.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Kidderminster girl paints stones in aid of NHS

A CREATIVE nine-year-old from Kidderminster has been decorating stones for her neighbours to raise money for the NHS .
Rose Bishop has painted more than 100 rocks for friends and family members and has so far raised nearly £400 from donations left in an `` honesty box '' outside her house and via an online Just Giving page .
The Wolverley Sebright Primary School student is now taking orders , and has painted stones with door numbers for a number of her neighbours around Prior Close .
Her aunt Amanda Hilton , who lives in Stourport , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crafts .
She 's always loved painting stones and when this started she started doing rainbow ones .
`` People started asking her to paint one for them so she started doing house numbers for people and leaving them on a table outside with prices on .
`` My sister , her mum Karen , works for the NHS with special needs children and she set up a Just Giving page to take donations .
`` Rose set out wanting to raise £200 and already she 's raised well over £300 .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she is achieving . ''
To donate or order a stone - priced between £1 and £2.50 - go to justgiving.com/fundraising/rosesnhsfundraisingstones .
The money raised will go to NHS Charities Together , supporting workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis .
In July last year , Rose donated her hair to the Little Princess Trust and raised £50 .

Rose Bishop has painted more than 100 rocks for friends and family members and has so far raised nearly £400 from donations left in an "honesty box" outside her house and via an online Just Giving page.
The Wolverley Sebright Primary School student is now taking orders, and has painted stones with door numbers for a number of her neighbours around Prior Close.
Her aunt Amanda Hilton, who lives in Stourport, said: "Rose has always been into arts and crafts. She's always loved painting stones and when this started she started doing rainbow ones.
"People started asking her to paint one for them so she started doing house numbers for people and leaving them on a table outside with prices on.
"My sister, her mum Karen, works for the NHS with special needs children and she set up a Just Giving page to take donations.
"Rose set out wanting to raise £200 and already she's raised well over £300. We're so proud of her and what she is achieving."
To donate or order a stone - priced between £1 and £2.50 - go to justgiving.com/fundraising/rosesnhsfundraisingstones.
The money raised will go to NHS Charities Together, supporting workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis.
In July last year, Rose donated her hair to the Little Princess Trust and raised £50.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--A&E visits down in Worcestershire as people stay away over coronavirus fears

A & E visits dropped significantly at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust in March , new figures show .
It comes amid fears people with serious health conditions are avoiding hospital during the coronavirus pandemic , with the head of the NHS issuing a plea for the sick not to ignore problems until they are too late .
NHS England figures show there were 12,642 A & E attendances at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust in March – 4,167 fewer than a year previously , a 25 % drop .
It reflects the picture across England , where accident and emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month on record .
Attendances plunged to 1.5 million nationally – 29 % below the same month a year earlier .
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine says it is concerned the drop could mean people with serious health problems are avoiding A & E , for fear of catching the coronavirus .
President Dr Katherine Henderson said : “ The most important thing the public can do at the moment is to stay indoors and follow the Government ’ s advice .
“ But do seek medical help if you need it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a heart attack out of fear .
“ Our emergency departments have specific areas for Covid-19 patients , and we treat other ailments in another part .
“ Our healthcare system is still open for business and you will be seen.
” The British Heart Foundation said separate data shows the number of people attending emergency departments across England with symptoms of a possible heart attack halved during March .
Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan , associate medical director at BHF , urged people to call 999 immediately if they have any symptoms of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Simon Stevens recently launched a new drive to persuade the public to seek urgent care and treatment when they need it .
He added : “ While NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deal with coronavirus , they have also worked hard to ensure that patients who don ’ t have Covid-19 can safely access essential services . ''
“ So whether you or a loved one have the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke , are a parent worried about their child or have concerns about conditions such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the way you always would .
“ Ignoring problems can have serious consequences – now or in the future .
”

It comes amid fears people with serious health conditions are avoiding hospital during the coronavirus pandemic, with the head of the NHS issuing a plea for the sick not to ignore problems until they are too late.
NHS England figures show there were 12,642 A&E attendances at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust in March – 4,167 fewer than a year previously, a 25% drop.
It reflects the picture across England, where accident and emergency departments were at their quietest for any month on record.
Attendances plunged to 1.5 million nationally – 29% below the same month a year earlier.
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine says it is concerned the drop could mean people with serious health problems are avoiding A&E, for fear of catching the coronavirus.
President Dr Katherine Henderson said: “The most important thing the public can do at the moment is to stay indoors and follow the Government’s advice.
“But do seek medical help if you need it – don't stay at home with a heart attack out of fear.
“Our emergency departments have specific areas for Covid-19 patients, and we treat other ailments in another part.
“Our healthcare system is still open for business and you will be seen.”
The British Heart Foundation said separate data shows the number of people attending emergency departments across England with symptoms of a possible heart attack halved during March.
Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, associate medical director at BHF, urged people to call 999 immediately if they have any symptoms of a heart attack.
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens recently launched a new drive to persuade the public to seek urgent care and treatment when they need it.
He added: “While NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deal with coronavirus, they have also worked hard to ensure that patients who don’t have Covid-19 can safely access essential services."
“So whether you or a loved one have the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, are a parent worried about their child or have concerns about conditions such as cancer, you should seek help in the way you always would.
“Ignoring problems can have serious consequences – now or in the future.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--‘We do have virus warning signs’ says Worcestershire hospitals boss

A CARER is worried she may have contracted coronavirus after sitting on A & E seats at Worcestershire Royal Hospital designated for Covid-19 patients , claiming there were no signs warning of the danger .
However , the chief executive of the hospital trust says there were ‘ clear signs ’ about restrictions on hospital visitors during the crisis .
The woman , who does not wish to be named , said she took her 87-year-old father to the hospital on Monday because he was suffering from chest pains .
The former civil servant , who had not registered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she had the greatest respect for NHS workers and was ‘ full of admiration ’ for them .
However , she says she was confronted by a ‘ rude ’ security guard who told her the seats were for Covid-19 patients .
The 48-year-old , who is sole carer for her father , said : “ Upon arrival at the A & E reception however I was asked to take a seat and await my father which I duly did .
After a few seconds I was approached by a very rude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security and asked if I had the coronavirus ?
I answered ‘ no ’ and was bluntly told that the seats I was sitting on were for coronavirus patients only .
“ I said , ‘ I am sorry I must have missed the sign instructing the public to this effect ’ and asked if he could point it out to me .
Apparently there were none .
I asked how people would then be aware of this arrangement at which point he got quite argumentative and said it wasn ’ t his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I should be complaining to .
“ My main concern now is that I have sat in an area potentially occupied by coronavirus patients and could now be potentially infected myself and even worse could pass the virus on to my father.
” “ Surely rather that sitting gazing into space this supposed security officer could locate a pen and a piece of paper to produce a sign alerting the public to their intended seating arrangements .
`` This is a blatant disregard for the health of the public and as far as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater risk of catching the disease .
Where is the common sense here ?
We have been in lockdown now for coming up to six weeks and the NHS can ’ t even produce some simple signage .
I am shocked and disgusted.
” Matthew Hopkins , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , said : “ To protect patients and our staff from the risk of infection , we have put in place a number of measures during the Covid-19 pandemic .
`` This includes restrictions on visitors accompanying patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realise is a very difficult thing to ask but is necessary to help minimise any risks of infection .
There are clear signs to this effect in the entrance to the Emergency Department ( ED ) at Worcestershire Royal and our security teams will also , quite rightly , approach anyone they see who is not a patient or a member of staff in the department and explain the restrictions to them.
” “ In our ED we also have designated seating areas for patients who may require a swab .
The patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which are cleaned regularly , by a member of the ED clinical team .
“ We apologise if the restrictions on visitors weren ’ t explained clearly to the lady who has contacted the Worcester News and if she would like to discuss her concerns in more detail we would encourage her to contact us directly so that we can provide her with further reassurance .
”

However, the chief executive of the hospital trust says there were ‘clear signs’ about restrictions on hospital visitors during the crisis.
The woman, who does not wish to be named, said she took her 87-year-old father to the hospital on Monday because he was suffering from chest pains.
The former civil servant, who had not registered a formal complaint with the trust, stressed that she had the greatest respect for NHS workers and was ‘full of admiration’ for them.
However, she says she was confronted by a ‘rude’ security guard who told her the seats were for Covid-19 patients.
The 48-year-old, who is sole carer for her father, said: “Upon arrival at the A&E reception however I was asked to take a seat and await my father which I duly did.
After a few seconds I was approached by a very rude gentleman who told me he was hospital security and asked if I had the coronavirus? I answered ‘no’ and was bluntly told that the seats I was sitting on were for coronavirus patients only.
“I said, ‘I am sorry I must have missed the sign instructing the public to this effect’ and asked if he could point it out to me. Apparently there were none. I asked how people would then be aware of this arrangement at which point he got quite argumentative and said it wasn’t his fault and that it was the hospital I should be complaining to.
“My main concern now is that I have sat in an area potentially occupied by coronavirus patients and could now be potentially infected myself and even worse could pass the virus on to my father.”
“Surely rather that sitting gazing into space this supposed security officer could locate a pen and a piece of paper to produce a sign alerting the public to their intended seating arrangements.
"This is a blatant disregard for the health of the public and as far as I can see puts us at even greater risk of catching the disease. Where is the common sense here? We have been in lockdown now for coming up to six weeks and the NHS can’t even produce some simple signage. I am shocked and disgusted.”
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “To protect patients and our staff from the risk of infection, we have put in place a number of measures during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"This includes restrictions on visitors accompanying patients into the hospital building, which we realise is a very difficult thing to ask but is necessary to help minimise any risks of infection. There are clear signs to this effect in the entrance to the Emergency Department (ED) at Worcestershire Royal and our security teams will also, quite rightly, approach anyone they see who is not a patient or a member of staff in the department and explain the restrictions to them.”
“In our ED we also have designated seating areas for patients who may require a swab. The patients will be guided to these seats, which are cleaned regularly, by a member of the ED clinical team.
“We apologise if the restrictions on visitors weren’t explained clearly to the lady who has contacted the Worcester News and if she would like to discuss her concerns in more detail we would encourage her to contact us directly so that we can provide her with further reassurance.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Noel Gallagher releases lost Oasis song Don’t Stop - how to listen to it

OASIS have released a song previously thought to have been lost after Noel Gallagher found it among a trove of old CDs at his home .
The track , called Don ’ t Stop… , was never released or worked into a full studio recording .
The only known previous recording of the song is from a soundcheck at an Oasis concert in Hong Kong about 15 years ago , according to Gallagher .
Don ’ t Stop… was released on Oasis ’ s YouTube page on Thursday , almost 11 years since the band ’ s break-up .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What has Noel said ?
The 52-year-old rock ’ n roll star said on Twitter : “ As fate would have it , I have stumbled across an old demo which I thought had been lost for ever.
” He added : “ I know some of you love this tune , so we thought we ’ d put it out there for you to enjoy/argue over .
“ Hope everyone is staying safe and trying to ride out the lockdown with a minimum of fuss .
You ’ re welcome by @ @ @ @

The track, called Don’t Stop…, was never released or worked into a full studio recording.
The only known previous recording of the song is from a soundcheck at an Oasis concert in Hong Kong about 15 years ago, according to Gallagher.
Don’t Stop… was released on Oasis’s YouTube page on Thursday, almost 11 years since the band’s break-up.
The song was written and sung by Gallagher.
What has Noel said?
The 52-year-old rock’n roll star said on Twitter: “As fate would have it, I have stumbled across an old demo which I thought had been lost for ever.”
He added: “I know some of you love this tune, so we thought we’d put it out there for you to enjoy/argue over.
“Hope everyone is staying safe and trying to ride out the lockdown with a minimum of fuss. You’re welcome by the way.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Coronavirus: B&Q, Homebase and Wickes reopen more UK stores

DIY chains B & Q , Homebase and Wickes have reopened a vast number of stores after closing in March due to the coronavirus outbreak .
Hardware stores have been named as essential retailers by the Government but they still largely shut their doors temporarily due to the pandemic .
Here 's a round-up of what we know .
What have Homebase said ?
On Wednesday , April 29 , Homebase said it had reopened another 50 sites following a successful trial across 20 stores which it opened last week .
The retailer said its remaining UK outlets will all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shop from Saturday .
Damian McGloughlin , chief executive officer at Homebase , said : “ We have taken this time to carefully review and make a large number of changes to our operations in preparation for a safe , phased reopening , in line with Government guidance on social distancing .
“ It has taken a tremendous amount of hard work and commitment from our teams across all parts of the business to ensure we are ready to safely welcome customers back through our doors .
“ I ’ m extremely grateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team member , and to our customers , for the huge support and understanding.
” What have B & Q said ?
B & Q , which was one of the first to reopen stores , said on Wednesday , April 29 , that it is now welcoming customers to 285 of its outlets .
It said it is “ strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time ” and has placed two-metre markers outside its shops to help people in queues socially distance .
Graham Bell , B @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ During this time of self-isolation and social distancing , we ’ re all learning new ways of living and shopping .
We ’ ve watched how other essential retailers have supported social distancing in their stores and followed their best practice with trials at 14 stores .
“ Following the success of the trials , with customers adhering to our social distancing measures , we ’ ve now opened over half of our stores .
“ We ’ re confident that our strict social distancing measures keep customers and colleagues safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as people ’ s wellbeing , to be maintained.
” What have Wickes said ?
Meanwhile , Wickes has launched a trial to reopen six stores with new social distancing measures in place .
It said stores in Pudsey , Cheltenham , Preston , Sevenoaks , Cricklewood and Hailsham will open to the public on Thursday , April 30 .
The retailer said the trial stores will operate shorter opening hours on Monday to Saturday , opening from 7am to 6pm .

Hardware stores have been named as essential retailers by the Government but they still largely shut their doors temporarily due to the pandemic.
Here's a round-up of what we know.
What have Homebase said?
On Wednesday, April 29, Homebase said it had reopened another 50 sites following a successful trial across 20 stores which it opened last week.
The retailer said its remaining UK outlets will all be reopened for customers to browse and shop from Saturday.
Damian McGloughlin, chief executive officer at Homebase, said: “We have taken this time to carefully review and make a large number of changes to our operations in preparation for a safe, phased reopening, in line with Government guidance on social distancing.
“It has taken a tremendous amount of hard work and commitment from our teams across all parts of the business to ensure we are ready to safely welcome customers back through our doors.
“I’m extremely grateful for the dedication shown by every single team member, and to our customers, for the huge support and understanding.”
What have B&Q said?
B&Q, which was one of the first to reopen stores, said on Wednesday, April 29, that it is now welcoming customers to 285 of its outlets.
It said it is “strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time” and has placed two-metre markers outside its shops to help people in queues socially distance.
Graham Bell, B&Q chief executive officer, said: “During this time of self-isolation and social distancing, we’re all learning new ways of living and shopping. We’ve watched how other essential retailers have supported social distancing in their stores and followed their best practice with trials at 14 stores.
“Following the success of the trials, with customers adhering to our social distancing measures, we’ve now opened over half of our stores.
“We’re confident that our strict social distancing measures keep customers and colleagues safe while helping homes and gardens, as well as people’s wellbeing, to be maintained.”
What have Wickes said?
Meanwhile, Wickes has launched a trial to reopen six stores with new social distancing measures in place.
It said stores in Pudsey, Cheltenham, Preston, Sevenoaks, Cricklewood and Hailsham will open to the public on Thursday, April 30.
The retailer said the trial stores will operate shorter opening hours on Monday to Saturday, opening from 7am to 6pm.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club shows off best pictures of the week

Here are the latest best pictures from the Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club .
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kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Cannabis farm found after fire at Rushock Trading Estate

AN electrical fire at a trading estate near Hartlebury is believed to have been started by equipment used to grow a large number of cannabis plants .
Police are appealing for information following a fire at Rushock Trading Estate and the subsequent discovery of a cannabis farm .
Firefighters from the Wyre Forest Hub attended the fire at a property off the A442 at around 5am on Thursday ( April 30 ) .
Crews called for police attendance when the property was found to contain an extensive cannabis farm inside .
The electrical fire is believed to have been started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which were in a number of specifically designed tents inside the property .
Sergeant Andy Wright , from West Mercia Police , said : `` Thankfully these drugs never made it onto the streets and the plants and the growing equipment that survived the fire will now been destroyed .
`` West Mercia Police is dedicated to tackling drug supply in the community and we will not tolerate drug dealing nor will we allow properties to be used for the production of cannabis .
`` I would urge anyone who has seen any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last few months to please get in touch so that we can bring the offenders to justice . ''
Anyone with any information is asked to call 101 , quoting 0060s , or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 .

Police are appealing for information following a fire at Rushock Trading Estate and the subsequent discovery of a cannabis farm.
Firefighters from the Wyre Forest Hub attended the fire at a property off the A442 at around 5am on Thursday (April 30).
Crews called for police attendance when the property was found to contain an extensive cannabis farm inside.
The electrical fire is believed to have been started by the equipment growing the plants, which were in a number of specifically designed tents inside the property.
Sergeant Andy Wright, from West Mercia Police, said: "Thankfully these drugs never made it onto the streets and the plants and the growing equipment that survived the fire will now been destroyed.
"West Mercia Police is dedicated to tackling drug supply in the community and we will not tolerate drug dealing nor will we allow properties to be used for the production of cannabis.
"I would urge anyone who has seen any suspicious activity around Rushock Trading Estate over the last few months to please get in touch so that we can bring the offenders to justice."
Anyone with any information is asked to call 101, quoting 0060s, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Bewdley care home resident Gwen turns 104 in lockdown

A CARE home resident in Bewdley has turned 104 during the coronavirus lockdown .
Gwen Pitt was born on May 1 , 1916 in Smethwick to parents Elizabeth and Harry Collins .
She was one of eight siblings .
At aged six , Gwen 's father passed away due to an industrial accident and she was put into foster care between the ages of eight and 14 .
Gwen returned to Smethwick and was happy to be reunited with her sister Elsie .
Spending much of her working life as a machinist in a clothing factory , Gwen made many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ met her husband Joseph .
They married when Gwen was 19 years old and she soon became pregnant and left work to care for their three sons full time .
In 1944 , the couple 's first born son tragically died at the age of six - just 18 months after Gwen suffered the loss of her sister .
This was followed by the death of Gwen 's husband Joseph , aged just 27 , to heart failure .
Left as a widower with two young children , Gwen had to work very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on various jobs including housework , assembling , hotel work , domestic cleaning and a school dinner lady role .
Gwen 's proudest achievement , after marrying her second husband Bill in June 1948 and nursing him through kidney disease , was saving enough money to put a deposit on a bungalow in Bromsgrove .
Here , she became involved in the Baptist Church .
Gwen lost Bill to cancer in 1992 , by which time her youngest son Tony had moved to New Zealand .
Her middle son Alan and his wife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and wife Hazel kept in touch via emails , phone calls and deliveries of flowers .
Gwen managed life well but moved to Summerdyne Nursing Home in Bewdley in August 2014 , where she has made many friends .

Gwen Pitt was born on May 1, 1916 in Smethwick to parents Elizabeth and Harry Collins. She was one of eight siblings.
At aged six, Gwen's father passed away due to an industrial accident and she was put into foster care between the ages of eight and 14.
Gwen returned to Smethwick and was happy to be reunited with her sister Elsie.
Spending much of her working life as a machinist in a clothing factory, Gwen made many friends and it was here that she met her husband Joseph.
They married when Gwen was 19 years old and she soon became pregnant and left work to care for their three sons full time.
In 1944, the couple's first born son tragically died at the age of six - just 18 months after Gwen suffered the loss of her sister.
This was followed by the death of Gwen's husband Joseph, aged just 27, to heart failure.
Left as a widower with two young children, Gwen had to work very hard to support the family and took on various jobs including housework, assembling, hotel work, domestic cleaning and a school dinner lady role.
Gwen's proudest achievement, after marrying her second husband Bill in June 1948 and nursing him through kidney disease, was saving enough money to put a deposit on a bungalow in Bromsgrove.
Here, she became involved in the Baptist Church.
Gwen lost Bill to cancer in 1992, by which time her youngest son Tony had moved to New Zealand.
Her middle son Alan and his wife Anne visited her regularly, and Tony and wife Hazel kept in touch via emails, phone calls and deliveries of flowers.
Gwen managed life well but moved to Summerdyne Nursing Home in Bewdley in August 2014, where she has made many friends.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Worcestershire trust to review risk assessments for ethnic minority staff

HOSPITAL bosses in Worcestershire will review risk assessments for black and minority ethnic staff over concerns they are at greater risk from coronavirus .
New national guidance suggests NHS workers from black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) backgrounds should be “ risk-assessed ” and potentially moved away from frontline roles over concerns they are being “ disproportionately affected by Covid-19 ” .
Last year ’ s report - the most recent figures made available - showed Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust employed 827 people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds ( 582 Asian/British Asian , 108 black/British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who fell into other ) out of a total of 6,207 staff .
The trust manages Worcestershire Royal Hospital , the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
No breakdown was provided of how many of these roles were frontline .
Data from the Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre has suggested 34.5 per cent of critically ill Covid-19 patients have BAME backgrounds despite just 10.8 per cent of the population being black or Asian , according to the 2011 census .
A letter from NHS England urges health trusts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moving those from ethnic minority backgrounds away from the frontline to non-patient facing roles .
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said Public Health England had been asked by the Department for Health and Social Care to look into the issue .
Tina Ricketts , director of people and culture at the Worcestershire acute trust , said : “ Our staff across all our hospitals are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS and their safety is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance , we have carried out risk assessments , particularly for vulnerable groups of staff , to understand the specific risks colleagues face from exposure to Covid-19 and actions we can take to keep them safe .
`` This includes staff returning to work for the NHS , and existing staff who are in high risk or increased risk categories as defined by Public Health England .
“ Following the latest recommendations we will be reviewing our guidance and risk assessments for our BAME workforce to ensure we are providing appropriate support .
@

New national guidance suggests NHS workers from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds should be “risk-assessed” and potentially moved away from frontline roles over concerns they are being “disproportionately affected by Covid-19”.
Last year’s report - the most recent figures made available - showed Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust employed 827 people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds (582 Asian/British Asian, 108 black/British black, 64 mixed race and 73 who fell into other) out of a total of 6,207 staff.
The trust manages Worcestershire Royal Hospital, the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
No breakdown was provided of how many of these roles were frontline.
Data from the Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre has suggested 34.5 per cent of critically ill Covid-19 patients have BAME backgrounds despite just 10.8 per cent of the population being black or Asian, according to the 2011 census.
A letter from NHS England urges health trusts to make "appropriate arrangements", including moving those from ethnic minority backgrounds away from the frontline to non-patient facing roles.
NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said Public Health England had been asked by the Department for Health and Social Care to look into the issue.
Tina Ricketts, director of people and culture at the Worcestershire acute trust, said: “Our staff across all our hospitals are doing a magnificent job in working to put patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS and their safety is paramount.
"In line with national guidance, we have carried out risk assessments, particularly for vulnerable groups of staff, to understand the specific risks colleagues face from exposure to Covid-19 and actions we can take to keep them safe.
"This includes staff returning to work for the NHS, and existing staff who are in high risk or increased risk categories as defined by Public Health England.
“Following the latest recommendations we will be reviewing our guidance and risk assessments for our BAME workforce to ensure we are providing appropriate support.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Domestic abuse deaths 'three times higher' than last year - how to get help

Latest figures have revealed that the number of domestic abuse killings recorded in the UK are currently three times higher than this time last year .
Counting Dead Women - a project tracking the number of UK women killed by men - has found that domestic abuse killings have jumped sharply during the current lockdown period .
Since the UK lockdown was called on March 23 , there have been at least 16 domestic abuse-related killings of women and children .
This stands in contrast to just five recorded during the same period in 2019 .
Some of the victims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mother and care worker , who was recently found dead in her Grantham flat .
Julio Jesus , 30 , has been charged with ABH and manslaughter for her death .
Ruth Brown , 52 , has also been named as one of the victims .
She was found dead in a house in Bognor Regis on April 11 .
Wayne Morris , 47 , has been charged with her murder .
In addition to an uptick in deaths , calls and contacts to the national domestic abuse helpline were up by 49 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 15 .
Chayn , a domestic abuse project , reported that visits to its website in March 2020 had trebled compared to the same month in 2019 .
The Men 's Advice Line also saw an increase of 16.6 per cent in calls .
A new report by the Home Affairs Select Committee has now called for new schemes to ensure that victims can access the urgent help they need during lockdown .
The committee is calling for new ways for victims to access help though pharmacies and supermarkets , fresh emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 174,000 plus children who live in homes with reported domestic abuse cases , and a new guarantee of safe housing for individuals needing to leave their home during lockdown as a result of abuse .
What to do if you are in a domestic abuse situation If you feel your life is in immediate danger , you should contact 999 for the emergency services .
Otherwise , you can call 0808 2000 247 to speak to a member of the National Domestic Abuse Helpline team for free , 24 hours a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , non-judgmental information and expert support .
You can find further resources and information on what to do if you , or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence by visiting nationaldahelpline.org.uk .

Counting Dead Women - a project tracking the number of UK women killed by men - has found that domestic abuse killings have jumped sharply during the current lockdown period.
Since the UK lockdown was called on March 23, there have been at least 16 domestic abuse-related killings of women and children. This stands in contrast to just five recorded during the same period in 2019.
Some of the victims include Daniella Espirito Santo, a 23-year-old mother and care worker, who was recently found dead in her Grantham flat. Julio Jesus, 30, has been charged with ABH and manslaughter for her death.
Ruth Brown, 52, has also been named as one of the victims. She was found dead in a house in Bognor Regis on April 11. Wayne Morris, 47, has been charged with her murder.
Domestic abuse helpline calls up 49 per cent
In addition to an uptick in deaths, calls and contacts to the national domestic abuse helpline were up by 49 per cent in the week prior to April 15.
Chayn, a domestic abuse project, reported that visits to its website in March 2020 had trebled compared to the same month in 2019. The Men's Advice Line also saw an increase of 16.6 per cent in calls.
A new report by the Home Affairs Select Committee has now called for new schemes to ensure that victims can access the urgent help they need during lockdown.
The committee is calling for new ways for victims to access help though pharmacies and supermarkets, fresh emergency funding for support services, support for the 174,000 plus children who live in homes with reported domestic abuse cases, and a new guarantee of safe housing for individuals needing to leave their home during lockdown as a result of abuse.
What to do if you are in a domestic abuse situation
If you feel your life is in immediate danger, you should contact 999 for the emergency services.
The emergency line has a feature called the Silent Solutions System, in case you're afraid of being overheard making an emergency call. When the operator asks you which emergency service you require, dial 55 and the call will be transferred to your local police force as an emergency.
Otherwise, you can call 0808 2000 247 to speak to a member of the National Domestic Abuse Helpline team for free, 24 hours a day. The Helpline adviser will offer confidential, non-judgmental information and expert support.
You can find further resources and information on what to do if you, or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence by visiting nationaldahelpline.org.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-01--Royal Bank of Scotland issues alert about new wave of TV licence scam emails

An alert has been issued after a new wave of scams were reported to be in circulation .
The Royal Bank of Scotland ( RBS ) has warned of an increase in theft due to TV licensing scams .
In a pop-up message on its online banking app , the bank revealed that people across the country are reporting bank account theft after mistakenly responding to fraudulent emails .
The fake emails claim to be from the TV licensing authority .
The scam is just one of many being reported on during the coronavirus pandemic .
The bank has issued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ falling victim to such scams .
What is the TV licensing scam ?
RBS explained that criminals pretending to be from the TV licensing authority are sending emails , asking the recipients to click a link .
“ They want you to click a link to get your phone number and the name of your bank , ” the RBS warning said .
“ You will then receive a call from the criminals , pretending to be from your bank ’ s fraud team and persuaded to move your money to a safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Are there any other scams I should be aware of ?
The coronavirus pandemic has seen an increase in several online scams , as internet usage has increased while the nation remains under lockdown .
In the warning message sent to its customers , RBS said “ many variations of this scam exist , from bogus COVID-19 fines to the promise of free supermarket shopping vouchers.
” On the bank ’ s website , you can find details of several recent scams .
One example is an email impersonating the World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to offer coronavirus related advice .
This email includes a link that , once clicked , infects your computer with malware , which monitors your behaviour and captures your personal data .
Other so-called phishing scams come from criminals impersonating government organisations , such as the HMRC offering a tax refund , as well as purchase scams offering products such as face masks , vaccines or testing kits .
What is the bank ’ s advice ?
The RBS website urges customers to “ stay alert to suspicious phone calls , texts or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bank or other trusted organisations.
” The bank advised the public not to click on any links in emails , unless you are certain the email is genuine .
It adds that you should never download attachments or software , or give anyone remote access to your computer following communication you ’ ve received out of the blue .
It has also stated that your bank will never ask you to move money from your accounts for safe keeping .
Additionally , your bank will never ask you to share the following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are sent to you for logging into online banking or registering for the mobile app What has the TV Licensing Authority advised ?
Addressing the increase in such scams , the TV Licensing Authority has released the following advice on their website : “ We will always use donotreply @ tvlicensing.co.uk ( or donotreply @ spp.tvlicensing.co.uk ) to email you .
“ Scammers will try to disguise their email address because they normally ca n't use a genuine TV Licensing one .
On a computer or laptop , you ’ ll normally see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symbols.
” However , if you are on a mobile device , you may need to select the sender ’ s name to show the full email address .
Equally , the TV Licensing Authority has said it will always include your name in their emails , unless you specified to them that you don ’ t need a licence and therefore didn ’ t provide a name .
What should I do if I have fallen for one of these scams ?
If you believe you have fallen victim to such scams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( or your own bank ) immediately , using the telephone number found on the back of your bank card .
However , it urges you to do so from a different phone than the one the scammers have contacted you on , where possible .
Additionally , you should report the scam to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting their website .
Those living in Scotland can report fraud directly to Police Scotland , by calling 101 .

The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has warned of an increase in theft due to TV licensing scams.
In a pop-up message on its online banking app, the bank revealed that people across the country are reporting bank account theft after mistakenly responding to fraudulent emails.
The fake emails claim to be from the TV licensing authority. The scam is just one of many being reported on during the coronavirus pandemic.
The bank has issued advice to customers on how to avoid falling victim to such scams.
What is the TV licensing scam?
RBS explained that criminals pretending to be from the TV licensing authority are sending emails, asking the recipients to click a link.
“They want you to click a link to get your phone number and the name of your bank,” the RBS warning said.
“You will then receive a call from the criminals, pretending to be from your bank’s fraud team and persuaded to move your money to a safe account or give away card reader codes.”
Are there any other scams I should be aware of?
The coronavirus pandemic has seen an increase in several online scams, as internet usage has increased while the nation remains under lockdown.
In the warning message sent to its customers, RBS said “many variations of this scam exist, from bogus COVID-19 fines to the promise of free supermarket shopping vouchers.”
On the bank’s website, you can find details of several recent scams.
One example is an email impersonating the World Health Organisation (WHO), which pretends to offer coronavirus related advice.
This email includes a link that, once clicked, infects your computer with malware, which monitors your behaviour and captures your personal data.
Other so-called phishing scams come from criminals impersonating government organisations, such as the HMRC offering a tax refund, as well as purchase scams offering products such as face masks, vaccines or testing kits.
What is the bank’s advice?
The RBS website urges customers to “stay alert to suspicious phone calls, texts or emails from anyone claiming to be from the bank or other trusted organisations.”
The bank advised the public not to click on any links in emails, unless you are certain the email is genuine.
It adds that you should never download attachments or software, or give anyone remote access to your computer following communication you’ve received out of the blue. It has also stated that your bank will never ask you to move money from your accounts for safe keeping.
Additionally, your bank will never ask you to share the following information:
Your full security number
Your password
Your card reader code
Any one-time passcodes that are sent to you for logging into online banking or registering for the mobile app
What has the TV Licensing Authority advised?
Addressing the increase in such scams, the TV Licensing Authority has released the following advice on their website:
“We will always use donotreply@tvlicensing.co.uk (or donotreply@spp.tvlicensing.co.uk) to email you.
“Scammers will try to disguise their email address because they normally can't use a genuine TV Licensing one. On a computer or laptop, you’ll normally see the email address between the <> symbols.”
However, if you are on a mobile device, you may need to select the sender’s name to show the full email address.
Equally, the TV Licensing Authority has said it will always include your name in their emails, unless you specified to them that you don’t need a licence and therefore didn’t provide a name.
What should I do if I have fallen for one of these scams?
If you believe you have fallen victim to such scams, RBS advises you to contact them (or your own bank) immediately, using the telephone number found on the back of your bank card.
However, it urges you to do so from a different phone than the one the scammers have contacted you on, where possible.
Additionally, you should report the scam to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting their website.
Those living in Scotland can report fraud directly to Police Scotland, by calling 101.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-02--Kidderminster Museum of Carpet under threat due to coronavirus

THE museum showcasing Kidderminster 's rich history in the carpet trade is under threat due to a devastating loss of income during the coronavirus pandemic .
The Museum of Carpet , based at Stour Vale Mill , is at risk of closure after losing out on weeks of admission fees , room hires and merchandise sales - all main sources of its income .
The museum was forced to close and suspend all events , bookings and exhibitions in March in response to the covid-19 pandemic .
As an independent museum and charity , it receives no regular support from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the museum faces a massive challenge to restore income levels when the museum opens .
A crowdfunding campaign as been launched to save the museum , which has been in Green Street since 2012 , and trustees are aiming to raise £8,000 to pay bills while the site is closed and to secure its future .
A spokesman for the museum said : `` If you care , as we do , about keeping industrial heritage alive , about preserving local history , and about providing a space for the community to engage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Please pledge what you can .
The Museum of Carpet is the only museum in the UK dedicated to carpets and carpet manufacture , and the only museum and gallery space in Kidderminster .
`` We need your help to survive in these challenging times.
” Former Brintons workers unveil model looms at the Museum of Carpet in 2013 .
Photo by Jonathan Hipkiss The Carpet Museum Trust was founded in 1981 with the aim of establishing a museum for the exhibition of items of local historical and educational interest connected with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ machinery , designs and a large archive of ledgers , board minutes and accounts from the many carpet manufacturers based around the town .
The museum also houses the only archive of original copies of The Shuttle newspaper after they were rescued from Dudley Record Office .
To donate , go to crowdfunder.co.uk/kidderminster-museum-of-carpet .

The Museum of Carpet, based at Stour Vale Mill, is at risk of closure after losing out on weeks of admission fees, room hires and merchandise sales - all main sources of its income.
The museum was forced to close and suspend all events, bookings and exhibitions in March in response to the covid-19 pandemic.
As an independent museum and charity, it receives no regular support from local or central government.
Bosses say the museum faces a massive challenge to restore income levels when the museum opens.
A crowdfunding campaign as been launched to save the museum, which has been in Green Street since 2012, and trustees are aiming to raise £8,000 to pay bills while the site is closed and to secure its future.
A spokesman for the museum said: "If you care, as we do, about keeping industrial heritage alive, about preserving local history, and about providing a space for the community to engage, please support us."
"Please pledge what you can. The Museum of Carpet is the only museum in the UK dedicated to carpets and carpet manufacture, and the only museum and gallery space in Kidderminster.
"We need your help to survive in these challenging times.”
Former Brintons workers unveil model looms at the Museum of Carpet in 2013. Photo by Jonathan Hipkiss
The Carpet Museum Trust was founded in 1981 with the aim of establishing a museum for the exhibition of items of local historical and educational interest connected with the manufacture of carpets.
Its collection includes machinery, designs and a large archive of ledgers, board minutes and accounts from the many carpet manufacturers based around the town.
The museum also houses the only archive of original copies of The Shuttle newspaper after they were rescued from Dudley Record Office.
To donate, go to crowdfunder.co.uk/kidderminster-museum-of-carpet.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-02--Kidderminster SPAR offers free delivery to vulnerable in lockdown

SPAR in Kidderminster is offering free food and drink deliveries to vulnerable members of the community during the coronavirus outbreak .
Blakemore Retail , which runs the store , is delivering free of charge to at risk and isolated residents who are unable to go shopping during the pandemic .
This includes people who are aged over 70 , pregnant women , customers with disabilities , special needs or long-term health problems , and single parents self-isolating with children .
As a thank you for their hard work during the crisis , the SPAR shop is also offering free delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Products available for delivery include fresh fruit and vegetables , bread , milk , meat , alcohol , tobacco and household items .
SPAR Kidderminster store manager Chantal Doyle said : `` We launched a home delivery service a month ago to help those most in need and have been making about 15 deliveries a day since .
“ A lot of people are struggling to get out to the supermarket and are having to wait weeks for a delivery , but with our store you can place an order and get your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Simply give us a call and we ’ ll try our best to help .
“ Feedback from our customers has been fantastic .
`` Thanks to everyone who has supported our shop our local community is really important to us , and we want to do what we can to give back.
” To arrange a home delivery or find out more , visit afbspar.co.uk or contact the store on 01562 751571 .
There is no minimum spend and a click and collect service is also available .
SPAR colleagues making home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidelines and issued with protective gear and hand sanitiser .

Blakemore Retail, which runs the store, is delivering free of charge to at risk and isolated residents who are unable to go shopping during the pandemic.
This includes people who are aged over 70, pregnant women, customers with disabilities, special needs or long-term health problems, and single parents self-isolating with children.
As a thank you for their hard work during the crisis, the SPAR shop is also offering free delivery to key workers and NHS staff.
Products available for delivery include fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, milk, meat, alcohol, tobacco and household items.
SPAR Kidderminster store manager Chantal Doyle said: "We launched a home delivery service a month ago to help those most in need and have been making about 15 deliveries a day since.
“A lot of people are struggling to get out to the supermarket and are having to wait weeks for a delivery, but with our store you can place an order and get your food delivered on the same day. Simply give us a call and we’ll try our best to help.
“Feedback from our customers has been fantastic.
"Thanks to everyone who has supported our shop our local community is really important to us, and we want to do what we can to give back.”
To arrange a home delivery or find out more, visit afbspar.co.uk or contact the store on 01562 751571.
There is no minimum spend and a click and collect service is also available.
SPAR colleagues making home deliveries have been briefed on social distancing guidelines and issued with protective gear and hand sanitiser.