kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--Wyre Forest shoppers urged to avoid Birmingham and Black Country

THE leader of Wyre Forest District Council has urged the district 's Christmas shoppers to avoid travelling to areas with higher infection rates like Birmingham and the Black Country .
Councillor Graham Ballinger welcomed the news that Worcestershire will remain in tier two following the government 's review , but said he understood many would be disappointed the county was not moved down to tier one like neighbouring Herefordshire .
Cllr Ballinger said : `` I appreciate some will be disappointed we haven ’ t been dropped down into tier one but , with the number of positive Covid-19 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that was always going to be unlikely .
“ While we stay in tier two , we all need to carry on following the rules of hands , space and face , which are more important than ever in the fight to stop the spread of the virus .
“ I would urge everyone to be extremely cautious over the Christmas period , shop locally if you can and avoid travelling to areas with higher infection rates such as Birmingham and the Black Country if at all possible .
“ We all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to look very different in 2020 but I would urge everyone to do what they can to keep safe and well , so we can go in to 2021 with the hope of a much brighter year ahead.
” Following the tier announcement on Thursday ( December 17 ) , Worcester MP Robin Walker said he is `` hopeful that this will help us to come down the lowest tier before long '' , while Redditch MP Rachel Maclean said the tiers would be reviewed again in two weeks time .
The most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed Covid-19 infection rates had risen across Worcestershire , which is likely why the county 's tier restrictions were not relaxed .
The Prime Minister 's plan to ease some restrictions over Christmas to enable families to see one another will go ahead , however , meaning that between December 23 and December 27 , households will be able to form a bubble specifically for Christmas consisting of no more than three households .
The Christmas bubble rules allow people to form one Christmas bubble and see people in that group only for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ households can form a bubble , and people will not be able to change the people in that bubble .
Residents will only be allowed to meet people in their Christmas bubble in a home or place of worship - not in hotels , shops , restaurants or pubs .
People who have coronavirus or are self-isolating can not form part of a bubble and must continue their 10 days of isolation .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , director of Public Health for Worcestershire , said : `` It is very understandable that many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these five days of Christmas .
`` We recognise that for some , having this contact will play a role in supporting their mental health and wellbeing .
`` What matters now , is that we really consider how essential it is to mix .
`` Do we really need to see one another , and can we do it in as safe a way as possible ?
`` We are still living in restrictions and the virus is still with us in Worcestershire , so we all must continue to play our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
`` I 'd particularly urge great caution with seeing elderly relatives .
`` Any contact with other people increases the risk of you catching or spreading coronavirus and the elderly are particularly vulnerable .
`` Please think carefully before putting them at risk .
If you do meet up , please keep your distance , and do all you can to reduce the risk of spreading the virus .
`` We hope everyone can enjoy Christmas safely . ''

Councillor Graham Ballinger welcomed the news that Worcestershire will remain in tier two following the government's review, but said he understood many would be disappointed the county was not moved down to tier one like neighbouring Herefordshire.
Cllr Ballinger said: "I appreciate some will be disappointed we haven’t been dropped down into tier one but, with the number of positive Covid-19 cases continuing to increase over the last week, that was always going to be unlikely.
“While we stay in tier two, we all need to carry on following the rules of hands, space and face, which are more important than ever in the fight to stop the spread of the virus.
“I would urge everyone to be extremely cautious over the Christmas period, shop locally if you can and avoid travelling to areas with higher infection rates such as Birmingham and the Black Country if at all possible.
“We all know Christmas and New Year is going to look very different in 2020 but I would urge everyone to do what they can to keep safe and well, so we can go in to 2021 with the hope of a much brighter year ahead.”
Following the tier announcement on Thursday (December 17), Worcester MP Robin Walker said he is "hopeful that this will help us to come down the lowest tier before long", while Redditch MP Rachel Maclean said the tiers would be reviewed again in two weeks time.
The most recent coronavirus figures before the tier review showed Covid-19 infection rates had risen across Worcestershire, which is likely why the county's tier restrictions were not relaxed.
The Prime Minister's plan to ease some restrictions over Christmas to enable families to see one another will go ahead, however, meaning that between December 23 and December 27, households will be able to form a bubble specifically for Christmas consisting of no more than three households.
The Christmas bubble rules allow people to form one Christmas bubble and see people in that group only for the five-day period.
Up to three households can form a bubble, and people will not be able to change the people in that bubble.
Residents will only be allowed to meet people in their Christmas bubble in a home or place of worship - not in hotels, shops, restaurants or pubs.
People who have coronavirus or are self-isolating cannot form part of a bubble and must continue their 10 days of isolation.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of Public Health for Worcestershire, said: "It is very understandable that many people will want to see family over these five days of Christmas.
"We recognise that for some, having this contact will play a role in supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
"What matters now, is that we really consider how essential it is to mix.
"Do we really need to see one another, and can we do it in as safe a way as possible?
"We are still living in restrictions and the virus is still with us in Worcestershire, so we all must continue to play our part in reducing the spread of the virus.
"I'd particularly urge great caution with seeing elderly relatives.
"Any contact with other people increases the risk of you catching or spreading coronavirus and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
"Please think carefully before putting them at risk. If you do meet up, please keep your distance, and do all you can to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
"We hope everyone can enjoy Christmas safely."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--What do Tier 3 areas need to do ahead of next review?

Yesterday , Matt Hancock updated the commons on which areas in England will be moving into Tier 3 from Saturday .
The Health Secretary told MPs Tier 3 restrictions will be extended across a wide area of East and South East England .
He set out the findings of the first full review of England ’ s tier allocations , with very little good news for areas already under tough restrictions .
Instead , he was forced to place more areas under the toughest measures , closing pubs , restaurants and cinemas .
The changes mean a total of 38 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 from Saturday – 68 % of the population of England .
Mr Hancock said : “ I know that Tier 3 measures are tough .
But the best way for everyone to get out of them is to pull together , not just to follow the rules but do everything they possibly can to stop the spread of the virus.
” It was “ vital that everyone sticks at it and does the right thing , especially over this Christmas period ” .
When will Tier 3 areas be reviewed ?
Unfortunately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas of England will remain in place over Christmas .
Reviews continue to take place every two weeks meaning we will not see an update on Tier restrictions from the Health Secretary until December 30 .
When announcing the changes on Thursday he said : `` I regret having to take the action that we have to take .
`` I deem it necessary and there is a strong view right across Government that these actions are necessary .
`` But I also plead that personal responsibility is absolutely essential to how we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic . ''
What needs to happen for Tier 3 areas to be moved to Tier 2 ?
The little good news to come out of Thursday ’ s announcement came for Bristol and North Somerset , which will move from Tier 3 to Tier 2 from Saturday .
Bristol has seen its infection rate come down to 121 per 100,000 people and it ’ s still falling .
The assumption is that if areas under Tier 3 restrictions see their numbers follow suit then discussion can begin about changing restriction in areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not the only consideration , public health recommendations will also guid decision making based on how quickly case rates are rising or indeed falling .
The general population also plays a part based on pressure on the NHS , they work on projected capacity three to four weeks in advance – including absences , beds available and general admissions .
The Prime Minister ’ s official spokesman has said decisions are based on the latest data .
He said : `` The PM and ministers will have taken the latest medical advice and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very closely at the statistics to inform decisions that have been made .
”

The Health Secretary told MPs Tier 3 restrictions will be extended across a wide area of East and South East England.
He set out the findings of the first full review of England’s tier allocations, with very little good news for areas already under tough restrictions.
Instead, he was forced to place more areas under the toughest measures, closing pubs, restaurants and cinemas.
The changes mean a total of 38 million people will be living in Tier 3 from Saturday – 68% of the population of England.
Mr Hancock said: “I know that Tier 3 measures are tough. But the best way for everyone to get out of them is to pull together, not just to follow the rules but do everything they possibly can to stop the spread of the virus.”
It was “vital that everyone sticks at it and does the right thing, especially over this Christmas period”.
(PA Graphics)
When will Tier 3 areas be reviewed?
Unfortunately, the latest Tier restrictions placed on areas of England will remain in place over Christmas.
Reviews continue to take place every two weeks meaning we will not see an update on Tier restrictions from the Health Secretary until December 30.
When announcing the changes on Thursday he said: "I regret having to take the action that we have to take.
"I deem it necessary and there is a strong view right across Government that these actions are necessary.
"But I also plead that personal responsibility is absolutely essential to how we as a society should respond to this pandemic."
(PA Graphics)
What needs to happen for Tier 3 areas to be moved to Tier 2?
The little good news to come out of Thursday’s announcement came for Bristol and North Somerset, which will move from Tier 3 to Tier 2 from Saturday.
Bristol has seen its infection rate come down to 121 per 100,000 people and it’s still falling.
The assumption is that if areas under Tier 3 restrictions see their numbers follow suit then discussion can begin about changing restriction in areas across England.
But infection rates are not the only consideration, public health recommendations will also guid decision making based on how quickly case rates are rising or indeed falling.
The general population also plays a part based on pressure on the NHS, they work on projected capacity three to four weeks in advance – including absences, beds available and general admissions.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman has said decisions are based on the latest data.
He said: "The PM and ministers will have taken the latest medical advice and scientific data, and will have looked very closely at the statistics to inform decisions that have been made.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--Secondary schools in England to delay start of new term

There will be a staggered return of secondary school pupils in England in January .
Some teaching will be online while pupils sitting GCSE and A-level examinations this year will be prioritised for testing in the new year .
In January , Year 11 and Year 13 pupils will return to school straight away along with children of key workers and pupils deemed vulnerable .
Other pupils will continue their education online for up to a week to allow a staggered return to secondary schools in England .
The staggered return will only apply to secondary schools with all primary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ term .
The move comes as schools prepare for the rollout of mass Covid testing for pupils in the new year .
Earlier this week the Department of Education announced pupils who have been in contact will be offered daily testing for up to a week while teachers will be offered weekly testing .
Education Secretary , Gavin Williamson , said : `` This huge expansion of rapid testing for those working in education is a milestone moment in our work to keep schools and colleges open for all .
`` I know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to ensure approximately 99 per cent of schools have been open each week since the start of term .
`` Testing on this scale brings real benefits to education , it means more children , teachers and staff can stay in their classes in schools and colleges without the need to self-isolate . ''
The announcement came as new figures suggested that more than half of a small sample of schools surveyed in England had at least one Covid-19 infection last month .
Of the 105 schools in the survey , 1.24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff tested positive for Covid-19 between November 3 and 19 , according to the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) .
The survey also found that 27.6 % of the schools had one current infection , 27.6 % had between two and five current infections , and 44.8 % had no current infections .
Gavin Williamson is due to make a written statement to the Commons later on Thursday .

Some teaching will be online while pupils sitting GCSE and A-level examinations this year will be prioritised for testing in the new year.
In January, Year 11 and Year 13 pupils will return to school straight away along with children of key workers and pupils deemed vulnerable.
Other pupils will continue their education online for up to a week to allow a staggered return to secondary schools in England.
The staggered return will only apply to secondary schools with all primary schools returning on the first day of term.
The move comes as schools prepare for the rollout of mass Covid testing for pupils in the new year.
Earlier this week the Department of Education announced pupils who have been in contact will be offered daily testing for up to a week while teachers will be offered weekly testing.
Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, said: "This huge expansion of rapid testing for those working in education is a milestone moment in our work to keep schools and colleges open for all.
"I know it has taken a phenomenal effort from everyone to ensure approximately 99 per cent of schools have been open each week since the start of term.
"Testing on this scale brings real benefits to education, it means more children, teachers and staff can stay in their classes in schools and colleges without the need to self-isolate."
The announcement came as new figures suggested that more than half of a small sample of schools surveyed in England had at least one Covid-19 infection last month.
Of the 105 schools in the survey, 1.24% of pupils and 1.29% of staff tested positive for Covid-19 between November 3 and 19, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The survey also found that 27.6% of the schools had one current infection, 27.6% had between two and five current infections, and 44.8% had no current infections.
Gavin Williamson is due to make a written statement to the Commons later on Thursday.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--TV Licence: BBC may be forced to look at alternative funding

The BBC will “ eventually ” have to look at alternative methods of funding , a government minister has said .
John Whittingdale told MPs that the licence fee model is guaranteed until 2027 , but warned its days could be numbered .
The “ justification that everybody benefits from paying it because everybody benefited from the BBC is still largely the case , but that will diminish over time ” , he said .
“ I suspect that eventually , we will need to look at alternative methods of funding the BBC , ” he told the Digital , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Whittingdale also said that decriminalising licence fee evasion would bring with it “ potential negatives ” and is a “ more complicated matter than was originally perhaps suggested ” .
His comments come as the Government prepares to publish its response to a consultation on decriminalising licence fee evasion .
“ It is clear that the alternatives do carry with them potential negatives as well… with higher fines and… bailiffs to knock on people ’ s door , so we are of a view that this is a more complicated matter than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ We are certainly not going to rule it out .
We will continue to keep it under review , ” he said .
Mr Whittingdale also defended the Culture Secretary ’ s decision to write to Netflix about The Crown .
Oliver Dowden sent a letter over fears that viewers of the royal drama could mistake fiction for fact without a warning at the beginning of episodes .
Mr Whittingdale said that “ most people are aware that dramatised accounts of real-life events inevitably require some speculation.
” But he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are still quite raw and controversial , they involve people such as the existing Prince of Wales and his sons… “ It ’ s not unhelpful to remind people… a reminder that this is not based on any insider knowledge but is a dramatisation of somebody ’ s … imagination as to what might have happened.
” The minister said he is “ entirely open minded ” about privatising Channel 4 and that he is giving thought to the “ future of all the public service broadcasters ” .
The Government has previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future of the public broadcasting system and explore the reforms needed to make sure it is modern , sustainable and successful ” .

John Whittingdale told MPs that the licence fee model is guaranteed until 2027, but warned its days could be numbered.
The “justification that everybody benefits from paying it because everybody benefited from the BBC is still largely the case, but that will diminish over time”, he said.
“I suspect that eventually, we will need to look at alternative methods of funding the BBC,” he told the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee.
Mr Whittingdale also said that decriminalising licence fee evasion would bring with it “potential negatives” and is a “more complicated matter than was originally perhaps suggested”.
.@JWhittingdale says there are many aspects of licence fee he doesn’t like – it’s a flat charge, no means testing, highly regressive. The case that everyone benefits from BBC will diminish over time. Eventually we will need alternative means of funding. — Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee (@CommonsDCMS) December 15, 2020
His comments come as the Government prepares to publish its response to a consultation on decriminalising licence fee evasion.
“It is clear that the alternatives do carry with them potential negatives as well… with higher fines and… bailiffs to knock on people’s door, so we are of a view that this is a more complicated matter than was originally perhaps suggested,” he said.
“We are certainly not going to rule it out. We will continue to keep it under review,” he said.
Mr Whittingdale also defended the Culture Secretary’s decision to write to Netflix about The Crown.
Oliver Dowden sent a letter over fears that viewers of the royal drama could mistake fiction for fact without a warning at the beginning of episodes.
Mr Whittingdale said that “most people are aware that dramatised accounts of real-life events inevitably require some speculation.”
But he said: “These are events which are still quite raw and controversial, they involve people such as the existing Prince of Wales and his sons…
“It’s not unhelpful to remind people… a reminder that this is not based on any insider knowledge but is a dramatisation of somebody’s … imagination as to what might have happened.”
The minister said he is “entirely open minded” about privatising Channel 4 and that he is giving thought to the “future of all the public service broadcasters”.
The Government has previously announced a panel to “help shape the future of the public broadcasting system and explore the reforms needed to make sure it is modern, sustainable and successful”.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--'Kiddy Lad' makes sure Kidderminster still gets to see Santa

A SOCIAL media personality from Kidderminster has stepped up to the plate - or in this case , the sleigh - to give local children a chance to see Santa this Christmas .
After hearing that local sleigh tours had been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic , Adam Woodhouse ordered a £90 Santa 's suit from Amazon and turned his expertise building campervans to making a sleigh .
Known best by his social media followers as Kiddy Lad , Adam is halfway through a seven-day tour of Kidderminster and Stourport , which has seen hundreds of people each night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Santa Claus .
Adam , 40 , told The Shuttle : `` Each year we do a Christmas video , a music video or we recreate an iconic film , but this year I looked at the situation and thought there 's not going to be many Santas going around this year because of Covid .
`` I was thinking back to the 80s as a kid , seeing Santa coming up the estate , and it was magical for me .
`` I thought we ca n't have that , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Kidderminster .
If they 're not going to do it , I 'll do it . ''
The Grinch following Santa 's sleigh around Kidderminster .
Photo by Daniel Bragg/Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club Local businesses helped make the sleigh tour a reality by donating materials , sweets , a public announcement system , generator and a car to pull the sleigh .
Kiddy Lad and his team ( which includes Laura Hood as the Grinch ! )
have so far taken the sleigh around Habberley , Comberton , Offmore , Sion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visiting Birchen Coppice and the Rifle Range on Friday , the Horsefair on Saturday and finally Stourport on Sunday .
Any money given by residents on the rounds will be donated to MIND mental health charity .
Kiddy Lad Adam Woodhouse as Santa , touring the streets of Kidderminster .
Photo by SMART Photography Adam said : `` It 's been massive .
The response has been really good .
We 've had hundreds of people standing on both sides of the streets every night waiting for us .
The support has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as much as we can and the police have been great .
They 've been keeping an eye on us but they have n't got in the way at all .
`` As we come round the corner , people have been clapping and cheering .
To see kids coming out and some of them in their wheelchairs with glow sticks and shaking bells has just been amazing .
Laura Hood dressed as the Grinch , following Santa on his sleigh around Kidderminster .
Photo by SMART Photography '' It 's something a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some of them can be a bit boring .
But how many people can say they 've seen a drum and bass Santa ?
`` It ’ s been a terrible year for everyone so if I can do something to make people laugh , that 's job done for me . ''
Adam has been filming videos of his comedy character Dan Evans , AKA Kiddy Lad , for 10 years , and is now working on a fly on the wall mockumentary , 24 Hour Carpet People , about a man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after lockdown .

After hearing that local sleigh tours had been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, Adam Woodhouse ordered a £90 Santa's suit from Amazon and turned his expertise building campervans to making a sleigh.
Known best by his social media followers as Kiddy Lad, Adam is halfway through a seven-day tour of Kidderminster and Stourport, which has seen hundreds of people each night lining the streets to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus.
Adam, 40, told The Shuttle: "Each year we do a Christmas video, a music video or we recreate an iconic film, but this year I looked at the situation and thought there's not going to be many Santas going around this year because of Covid.
"I was thinking back to the 80s as a kid, seeing Santa coming up the estate, and it was magical for me.
"I thought we can't have that, there's always been a Santa's sleigh in Kidderminster. If they're not going to do it, I'll do it."
The Grinch following Santa's sleigh around Kidderminster. Photo by Daniel Bragg/Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club
Local businesses helped make the sleigh tour a reality by donating materials, sweets, a public announcement system, generator and a car to pull the sleigh.
Kiddy Lad and his team (which includes Laura Hood as the Grinch!) have so far taken the sleigh around Habberley, Comberton, Offmore, Sion Hill and Spennells, and will be visiting Birchen Coppice and the Rifle Range on Friday, the Horsefair on Saturday and finally Stourport on Sunday.
Any money given by residents on the rounds will be donated to MIND mental health charity.
Kiddy Lad Adam Woodhouse as Santa, touring the streets of Kidderminster. Photo by SMART Photography
Adam said: "It's been massive. The response has been really good. We've had hundreds of people standing on both sides of the streets every night waiting for us. The support has been amazing.
"We've been socially-distancing as much as we can and the police have been great. They've been keeping an eye on us but they haven't got in the way at all.
"As we come round the corner, people have been clapping and cheering. To see kids coming out and some of them in their wheelchairs with glow sticks and shaking bells has just been amazing.
Laura Hood dressed as the Grinch, following Santa on his sleigh around Kidderminster. Photo by SMART Photography
"It's something a bit different than your typical Santa. Some of them can be a bit boring. But how many people can say they've seen a drum and bass Santa?
"It’s been a terrible year for everyone so if I can do something to make people laugh, that's job done for me."
Adam has been filming videos of his comedy character Dan Evans, AKA Kiddy Lad, for 10 years, and is now working on a fly on the wall mockumentary, 24 Hour Carpet People, about a man trying to find a job in Kidderminster after lockdown.
Search Kiddy Lad on social media channels.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--Frustration at plan to keep Stourport site as car park for seven more years

A PLANNING application to keep a Stourport site as a car park for the next seven years has now been lodged by the council .
Previously , Wyre Forest District Council planned to build three-storey accommodation to house homeless people at the Bridge Street site – but the proposal was rejected by their planning committee .
That decision came after more than 1,300 objections against the schemes were made , including opposition from Stourport Town Council – and , as we revealed in September , the setback cost the district council almost £200,000 .
The council bought the land more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It has been operating as a temporary public car park for the past 4 years , following the demolition of buildings on site .
The planning statement reads : “ The retention of temporary car parking will ensure that the town centre site remains an active use and will help to support local businesses in the town.
” Some residents on social media have voiced frustration at the plan , sharing other suggestions for the site including new toilets and opening up the gateway to the basins .
Stourport resident Dave Bishop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m concerned , when they say a seven year planning application for a car park , it doesn ’ t mean the car park will be there for the full seven years .
Something may still happen in the interim .
“ I ’ m still hoping that Stourport gets the gateway to the basins that it was promised .
This is my hometown , I ’ m Stourport born and bred .
`` I ’ ve got four generations of my family still alive in the town , so I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
“ The problem was never about what was planned , it was about where it was .
`` We ’ ve always been promised a gateway to the basins .
There have been a few television programmes in recent months showcasing Stourport and how nice a town it is .
I only hope at some point that Stourport gets the legacy it deserves and that a gateway is constructed.
” Councillor Graham Ballinger , the leader of the council and cabinet member for strategy and finance , previously said there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding a project in its next medium-term financial strategy and that future development depends on `` viable proposals '' funded by another party .

Previously, Wyre Forest District Council planned to build three-storey accommodation to house homeless people at the Bridge Street site – but the proposal was rejected by their planning committee.
That decision came after more than 1,300 objections against the schemes were made, including opposition from Stourport Town Council – and, as we revealed in September, the setback cost the district council almost £200,000.
The council bought the land more than a decade ago from Lloyds Garages. It has been operating as a temporary public car park for the past 4 years, following the demolition of buildings on site.
The planning statement reads: “The retention of temporary car parking will ensure that the town centre site remains an active use and will help to support local businesses in the town.”
Some residents on social media have voiced frustration at the plan, sharing other suggestions for the site including new toilets and opening up the gateway to the basins.
Stourport resident Dave Bishop said: “As far as I’m concerned, when they say a seven year planning application for a car park, it doesn’t mean the car park will be there for the full seven years. Something may still happen in the interim.
“I’m still hoping that Stourport gets the gateway to the basins that it was promised. This is my hometown, I’m Stourport born and bred. "I’ve got four generations of my family still alive in the town, so I’m very conscious of what happens to it.
“The problem was never about what was planned, it was about where it was.
"We’ve always been promised a gateway to the basins. There have been a few television programmes in recent months showcasing Stourport and how nice a town it is. I only hope at some point that Stourport gets the legacy it deserves and that a gateway is constructed.”
Councillor Graham Ballinger, the leader of the council and cabinet member for strategy and finance, previously said there is "no prospect" of the council funding a project in its next medium-term financial strategy and that future development depends on "viable proposals" funded by another party.
The Shuttle approached Wyre Forest District Council for comment.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--Kidderminster 'Great Wall' gets Grade II listed status

A 320-METRE-LONG concrete sculpture in Kidderminster has been awarded Grade II listed status following a campaign by the local Civic Society .
Known as the 'Great Wall ' of Kidderminster , the extensive concrete relief decorating the retaining wall from Worcester Cross to Worcester Road ring road will be placed on the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest .
Kidderminster Civic Society was already putting together an application for listed status when the wall 's designer William Mitchell passed away in January , aged 94 .
Society chairman Nick Hughes said : `` This is really good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often unappreciated depth of heritage on so many different fronts the town possesses .
`` We are grateful for the support we have had from the local authorities and from other local heritage organisations in taking the application forward .
`` We also had encouragement from the Twentieth Century Society and experts on William Mitchell ’ s work such as Dr Dawn Pereira . ''
The Great Wall was constructed in 1972-73 and was part of stage three of the project to create Kidderminster Relief Road .
Taking the road through the side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of engineering in terms of a retaining wall and the decision was taken to deliver something more than simple bricks and mortar .
Landscape architect Douglas Smith 's proposal for a relief decorated wall was accepted by the borough council and Mitchell was commissioned to design and install the wall , while local contractors George Law and Co took on the challenging task of delivering his inspired creation .
Mitchell was a sculptor of international renown , whose work included such wide ranging creations as the doors of the Roman Catholic Cathedral in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George V in Paris and similar work at Harrods .
He also designed zoos in the Gulf and rapid transit facilities in California .
He relished working on a large scale but the Kidderminster wall - at 320 metres long , 11 metres tall and with a surface area of 2,100 square metres - was monumental even for Mitchell .
Mitchell himself acknowledged that the experience of building the Kidderminster wall was a significant step in his own artistic development .
Kidderminster Civic Society 's Michael Loftus and Nick Hughes in front of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hill Granting Grade II listed status on Wednesday , December 16 , Historic England described the wall as `` an example of infrastructure architecture incorporating public art of a remarkable scale '' and `` a bold response to a considerable engineering challenge '' .
Michael Loftus , of Kidderminster Civic Society , said : `` It ’ s great that this wonderful structure , totally practical at one level while somehow quite mysterious at another , should get the recognition that it deserves .
`` The fact that it was such a collaborative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creativity is also worth celebrating .
`` Many people remember the water cascade that was such a feature at the Comberton Hill end of the wall – it would be really fitting if that could be reinstated .
”

Known as the 'Great Wall' of Kidderminster, the extensive concrete relief decorating the retaining wall from Worcester Cross to Worcester Road ring road will be placed on the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest.
Kidderminster Civic Society was already putting together an application for listed status when the wall's designer William Mitchell passed away in January, aged 94.
Part of Kidderminster's Great Wall
Society chairman Nick Hughes said: "This is really good news and a welcome acknowledgement of the often unappreciated depth of heritage on so many different fronts the town possesses.
"We are grateful for the support we have had from the local authorities and from other local heritage organisations in taking the application forward.
"We also had encouragement from the Twentieth Century Society and experts on William Mitchell’s work such as Dr Dawn Pereira."
The Great Wall was constructed in 1972-73 and was part of stage three of the project to create Kidderminster Relief Road.
Taking the road through the side of a hill required a significant piece of engineering in terms of a retaining wall and the decision was taken to deliver something more than simple bricks and mortar.
Read more:
Landscape architect Douglas Smith's proposal for a relief decorated wall was accepted by the borough council and Mitchell was commissioned to design and install the wall, while local contractors George Law and Co took on the challenging task of delivering his inspired creation.
Mitchell was a sculptor of international renown, whose work included such wide ranging creations as the doors of the Roman Catholic Cathedral in Liverpool, the remodelling of the Hotel George V in Paris and similar work at Harrods. He also designed zoos in the Gulf and rapid transit facilities in California.
He relished working on a large scale but the Kidderminster wall - at 320 metres long, 11 metres tall and with a surface area of 2,100 square metres - was monumental even for Mitchell.
Mitchell himself acknowledged that the experience of building the Kidderminster wall was a significant step in his own artistic development.
Kidderminster Civic Society's Michael Loftus and Nick Hughes in front of the concrete relief. Photo by Colin Hill
Granting Grade II listed status on Wednesday, December 16, Historic England described the wall as "an example of infrastructure architecture incorporating public art of a remarkable scale" and "a bold response to a considerable engineering challenge".
Michael Loftus, of Kidderminster Civic Society, said: "It’s great that this wonderful structure, totally practical at one level while somehow quite mysterious at another, should get the recognition that it deserves.
"The fact that it was such a collaborative effort bringing together engineering skills and artistic creativity is also worth celebrating.
"Many people remember the water cascade that was such a feature at the Comberton Hill end of the wall – it would be really fitting if that could be reinstated.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-18--Santa Dash sees Wyre Forest pupils raise money for school PTAs

MORE than 1,000 pupils from across Wyre Forest made a synchronised Santa-dash across the finish line wearing Christmas jumpers to raise thousands of pounds for their school PTAs .
Children from the Severn Academies Educational Trust ( SAET ) took part in separate events by running , walking and skipping their way around their school playgrounds while also raising money for local charities .
The trust ’ s School Council organised the Santa Dash to bring students together during the festive season , despite them not being able to meet up in person during the Covid-19 restrictions .
Year one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their Christmas jumpers They also made their own Christmas decorations .
SAET chief executive Chris King said : “ They had great fun and the events helped in continuing the work we do to ensure the children across our trust understand and recognise we are part of a big family of schools.
” Pupils at Hartlebury CE Primary school alone raised more than £1,800 and their nursery and reception children also made a display of salt dough Santas .
Other schools taking part were Stourport Primary Academy , St Bartholomew ’ s CE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CE , Wolverley Sebright Academy , and associate trust member Far Forest Lea Memorial CE .

Children from the Severn Academies Educational Trust (SAET) took part in separate events by running, walking and skipping their way around their school playgrounds while also raising money for local charities.
The trust’s School Council organised the Santa Dash to bring students together during the festive season, despite them not being able to meet up in person during the Covid-19 restrictions.
Year one pupils at Hartlebury CE Primary School in their Christmas jumpers
They also made their own Christmas decorations.
SAET chief executive Chris King said: “They had great fun and the events helped in continuing the work we do to ensure the children across our trust understand and recognise we are part of a big family of schools.”
Pupils at Hartlebury CE Primary school alone raised more than £1,800 and their nursery and reception children also made a display of salt dough Santas.
Other schools taking part were Stourport Primary Academy, St Bartholomew’s CE at Areley Kings, Wilden All Saints CE, Wolverley Sebright Academy, and associate trust member Far Forest Lea Memorial CE.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Chemotherapy move to Kidderminster Hospital 'only temporary'

A DECISION to move the chemotherapy unit from Redditch hospital to Kidderminster is a temporary move to reduce the risk of cancer patients catching coronavirus , the hospitals ' boss has said .
The Alexandra Hospital 's Garden Suite chemo unit was transferred to Kidderminster Hospital earlier this year in response to the coronavirus outbreak , but the hospitals ' trust has confirmed the move is n't permanent .
Matthew Hopkins , chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , which manages both sites , said : `` During the coronavirus pandemic , our staff have been working incredibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need urgent care – not just those with coronavirus – have received it .
“ To achieve this , during the first phase of the pandemic we temporarily moved the Garden Suite chemotherapy unit from the Alexandra Hospital , Redditch , where we are treating patients with coronavirus , to the lower risk Kidderminster Hospital site to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection to our clinically vulnerable , often immune-suppressed , patients .
“ We have recently refurbished part of the Kidderminster site - A block - to enable the Garden Suite to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – but still temporary – location .
`` A Block , which is a separate building to the main Kidderminster Hospital site , was identified as an ideal location to ensure our cancer patients receive the care they need in the safest possible environment .
“ Further , the move allows us to use the space that it was occupying to increase the amount of day case surgery we are undertaking as part of our restoration of full hospital services following the initial stages of the pandemic .
”

The Alexandra Hospital's Garden Suite chemo unit was transferred to Kidderminster Hospital earlier this year in response to the coronavirus outbreak, but the hospitals' trust has confirmed the move isn't permanent.
Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, which manages both sites, said: "During the coronavirus pandemic, our staff have been working incredibly hard to ensure that all patients who need urgent care – not just those with coronavirus – have received it.
“To achieve this, during the first phase of the pandemic we temporarily moved the Garden Suite chemotherapy unit from the Alexandra Hospital, Redditch, where we are treating patients with coronavirus, to the lower risk Kidderminster Hospital site to reduce the risk of coronavirus infection to our clinically vulnerable, often immune-suppressed, patients.
“We have recently refurbished part of the Kidderminster site - A block - to enable the Garden Suite to move to a new, more suitable – but still temporary – location.
"A Block, which is a separate building to the main Kidderminster Hospital site, was identified as an ideal location to ensure our cancer patients receive the care they need in the safest possible environment.
“Further, the move allows us to use the space that it was occupying to increase the amount of day case surgery we are undertaking as part of our restoration of full hospital services following the initial stages of the pandemic.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--ICU worker at Worcestershire Royal Hospital: Morale is very low due to Covid

A MEMBER of staff at the intensive care unit in Worcester says morale there is at an all time low and most of them are ‘ running on empty ’ having worked through the pandemic .
An exhausted member of staff from the intensive care unit , who wishes to remain anonymous , put out a plea to the people of Worcester urging them to send in Christmas cards to give the workers a much needed boost .
She wrote : “ I work in the ICU at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and morale is very low .
We all feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ empty .
“ What I think would be wonderful would be a Christmas or holiday card from anyone who we have helped or from anyone who appreciates what we do or have done this year .
I think it will help raise our spirits and get us through Christmas and whatever we may face in January .
Our address is Intensive Care , Worcester Royal Hospital , Charles Hastings Way , Worcester , WR5 1DD , any message , long or short , would be just wonderful.
” We asked the Worcestershire Acute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and how the community could best help .
Dr Julian Berlet , Divisional Director for Specialised Clinical Services said : “ We know it has been a very difficult time for staff across our hospitals , who are doing a magnificent job in putting patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS .
“ This includes frontline staff working under tremendous pressure looking after coronavirus patients and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them .
“ These are unprecedented times .
In my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a situation where all staff feel under constant pressure , both in and out of work .
That does take its toll on our staff and their morale .
We recognise that and have worked hard to support our staff .
“ Kind messages from our patients , their families and our community are always welcomed by our hard working staff and give a huge morale boost for those working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients .
The senior leadership team for our intensive care units @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to offer support daily and reduce any additional stress ; signposting staff to the numerous avenues of support that are available to all Trust staff .
“ We have a range of wellbeing and support offers in place and regularly remind our hard-working staff of the need to think of their own wellbeing and the need to look out for each other .
We continue to build on our wide-ranging support measures for staff including counselling and wellbeing hotlines among other offers and would encourage any colleagues to speak to their manager if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help them access the support available to them .
“ It ’ s also really important that throughout the festive period everyone continues to follow all the guidance on how to keep themselves and others safe from the risk of infection – including wearing a mask , maintaining social distance and observing scrupulous hand hygiene .
“ That will help to reduce the pressure on our hospitals and staff .
”

An exhausted member of staff from the intensive care unit, who wishes to remain anonymous, put out a plea to the people of Worcester urging them to send in Christmas cards to give the workers a much needed boost. She wrote: “I work in the ICU at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and morale is very low. We all feel extremely tired and are running on almost empty.
“What I think would be wonderful would be a Christmas or holiday card from anyone who we have helped or from anyone who appreciates what we do or have done this year. I think it will help raise our spirits and get us through Christmas and whatever we may face in January. Our address is Intensive Care, Worcester Royal Hospital, Charles Hastings Way, Worcester, WR5 1DD, any message, long or short, would be just wonderful.”
We asked the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust why morale was low and how the community could best help.
Dr Julian Berlet, Divisional Director for Specialised Clinical Services said: “We know it has been a very difficult time for staff across our hospitals, who are doing a magnificent job in putting patients first through one of the most challenging periods in the history of the NHS.
“This includes frontline staff working under tremendous pressure looking after coronavirus patients and also those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support them.
“These are unprecedented times. In my working life, we have never had a situation where all staff feel under constant pressure, both in and out of work. That does take its toll on our staff and their morale. We recognise that and have worked hard to support our staff.
“Kind messages from our patients, their families and our community are always welcomed by our hard working staff and give a huge morale boost for those working day in day out to provide the best possible care for our patients. The senior leadership team for our intensive care units are working closely with the ICU staff to offer support daily and reduce any additional stress; signposting staff to the numerous avenues of support that are available to all Trust staff.
“We have a range of wellbeing and support offers in place and regularly remind our hard-working staff of the need to think of their own wellbeing and the need to look out for each other. We continue to build on our wide-ranging support measures for staff including counselling and wellbeing hotlines among other offers and would encourage any colleagues to speak to their manager if they are struggling, so we can help them access the support available to them.
“It’s also really important that throughout the festive period everyone continues to follow all the guidance on how to keep themselves and others safe from the risk of infection – including wearing a mask, maintaining social distance and observing scrupulous hand hygiene.
“That will help to reduce the pressure on our hospitals and staff.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Co-op Christmas hampers delivered to Wyre Forest families in need

HAMPERS filled with Christmas goodies have been delivered to vulnerable families across Wyre Forest .
The team at Home-Start Wyre Forest delivered some festive cheer in the form of gift hampers prepared by Midcounties Cooperative to all of the 99 families it supports ready for the Christmas period .
Members of the Midcounties Co-op regional group worked flat out to prepare the hampers and on Wednesday ( Dececmber 16 ) Home-Start staff were joined by CEO Phil Ponsonby and active member Bob Richens to deliver them to local families along with presents from this year 's Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midcounties Co-operative , said : “ We ’ re extremely proud to support Home-Start Wyre Forest and the incredible work they do .
`` We know this year has been challenging for so many people , and our priority has been to do all we can to help the most vulnerable in our communities in whatever way we can .
“ It ’ s my pleasure to be able to deliver the hampers to these families and I hope it goes some way in helping them to have a merry Christmas this year.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Midcounties Co-operative in Wyre Forest for the past three years and , following the interruption in fundraising caused by the pandemic , has extended the partnership until January 2022 .
Charity branch manager Belinda Darby said “ We are always in awe of the support this group of people give to us and the time , effort and financial help it has given our charity over the last three years has made such a difference to us being able to continue delivering family support .
`` The hampers are stunning and send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are very special and people are thinking about them at a difficult time in their lives .
”

The team at Home-Start Wyre Forest delivered some festive cheer in the form of gift hampers prepared by Midcounties Cooperative to all of the 99 families it supports ready for the Christmas period.
Members of the Midcounties Co-op regional group worked flat out to prepare the hampers and on Wednesday (Dececmber 16) Home-Start staff were joined by CEO Phil Ponsonby and active member Bob Richens to deliver them to local families along with presents from this year's Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal.
Sarah Wilcox and Alfie receiving a Co-op food hamper
Phil Ponsonby, CEO at the Midcounties Co-operative, said: “We’re extremely proud to support Home-Start Wyre Forest and the incredible work they do.
"We know this year has been challenging for so many people, and our priority has been to do all we can to help the most vulnerable in our communities in whatever way we can.
“It’s my pleasure to be able to deliver the hampers to these families and I hope it goes some way in helping them to have a merry Christmas this year.”
The Midcounties Co-operative Christmas hampers
Home-Start has been the charity partner of Midcounties Co-operative in Wyre Forest for the past three years and, following the interruption in fundraising caused by the pandemic, has extended the partnership until January 2022.
Charity branch manager Belinda Darby said “We are always in awe of the support this group of people give to us and the time, effort and financial help it has given our charity over the last three years has made such a difference to us being able to continue delivering family support.
"The hampers are stunning and send the message to our families that they are very special and people are thinking about them at a difficult time in their lives.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles: What's available from Sunday, December 20?

Aldi and Lidl have revealed the latest items hitting the shelves in the middle aisles of their stores from Sunday , December 20 , 2020 .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket .
This week , Aldi are her to help those of us still scratching around looking for Christmas present .
Lego lovers will be able to find this Build Your Own Adventure Set in Aldi available for £7.99 .
With Star Wars so popular right now the Lego Star Wars Build Your Adventure set available at Aldi will go down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas will be a little different this year , but the restrictions in place does n't have to stop the fun .
Aldi are offering a three pack of party games `` sure to have everybody roaring with laughter '' .
It 's available for £11.97 In the middle of Lidl this week , the supermarket chain are very much focused on Christmas , offering a range of home comforts as more people will be staying at home , perfect for relaxing over the festive season .
Perfect to relax in front of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Sanitas Shiatsu Massager for £19.99 .
There is nothing worse than cold feet in the cold winter months .
Lidl are offering a Sanitas Heated Foot Warmer which you can pick it up for just £16.99 .
Vind out more at Lidl.co.uk .

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are her to help those of us still scratching around looking for Christmas present.
These include:
Lego Jurassic Build Your Adventure. (Aldi)
Lego lovers will be able to find this Build Your Own Adventure Set in Aldi available for £7.99.
Lego Star Wars Build Your Adventure. (Aldi)
With Star Wars so popular right now the Lego Star Wars Build Your Adventure set available at Aldi will go down a treat. Available for £7.99.
Games Night Party Games 3 Pack. (Aldi)
Christmas will be a little different this year, but the restrictions in place doesn't have to stop the fun. Aldi are offering a three pack of party games "sure to have everybody roaring with laughter". It's available for £11.97
Find more deals at Aldi.co.uk.
Lidl
In the middle of Lidl this week, the supermarket chain are very much focused on Christmas, offering a range of home comforts as more people will be staying at home, perfect for relaxing over the festive season.
These include:
Sanitas Heated Overblanket. (Lidl)
Lidl are offering a Sanitas Heated Overblanket for £29.99.
Sanitas Shiatsu Massager (Lidl)
Perfect to relax in front of the tele this Christmas Lidl are selling a Sanitas Shiatsu Massager for £19.99.
Sanitas Heated Foot Warmer. (Lidl)
There is nothing worse than cold feet in the cold winter months. Lidl are offering a Sanitas Heated Foot Warmer which you can pick it up for just £16.99.
Vind out more at Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Boris Johnson refuses to rule out third national lockdown

Boris Johnson has refused to rule out a third natioanl lockdown as coronavirus infection rates continue to rise .
The Prime Minister has faced criticism this week as health chiefs have warned of the potential risk as lockdown rules are relaxed over the festive period .
Mr Johnson said rates of infection have increased “ very much in the last few weeks ” , as pressure grows on the Government to do more to tackle the rise .
Northern Ireland and Wales are bracing for lockdowns in the days after Christmas , and a senior emergency medicine doctor said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whatever it takes ” to get infections under control .
Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester Mr Johnson was asked whether England would follow Northern Ireland in imposing stringent restrictions after the festive period .
He said : “ We ’ re hoping very much that we will be able to avoid anything like that .
But the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks.
” Schools minister Nick Gibb earlier insisted England ’ s tier system , which will see swathes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toughest restrictions , is “ very effective ” .
But he added “ we rule nothing out ” when asked about the possibility of a national lockdown after Christmas .
The president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine , Dr Katherine Henderson , described a “ real perfect storm ” for hospitals as they try to balance increased numbers of Covid-19 patients with non-Covid work and a lack of beds .
She told the PA news agency : “ It seems to me we need to do whatever it takes to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can vaccinate people and then move forward.
” Dame Donna Kinnair , chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing , said nurses would not enjoy Christmas “ knowing what awaits them in January ” , amid fears of what she predicted could be an “ unrelenting tsunami ” of cases following relaxed restrictions .
She said ministers should give “ fresh and more detailed ” advice to the public with a week to go until Christmas .
Dr Nick Scriven , immediate past president of the Society for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mixing next week “ strikes fear into the hearts of clinicians on the front line ” .
New figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest half of adults across the country are planning to form a Christmas bubble .
The survey , carried out between December 10 and 13 , before Mr Johnson urged people to scale back their festive plans , also found that fewer people are planning social activities such as meeting in pubs , cafes or bars , compared with last year .
Up to three households are able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while travel to and from Northern Ireland is also permitted on December 22 and 28 .

The Prime Minister has faced criticism this week as health chiefs have warned of the potential risk as lockdown rules are relaxed over the festive period.
Mr Johnson said rates of infection have increased “very much in the last few weeks”, as pressure grows on the Government to do more to tackle the rise.
Northern Ireland and Wales are bracing for lockdowns in the days after Christmas, and a senior emergency medicine doctor said the rest of the UK must do “whatever it takes” to get infections under control.
Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester Mr Johnson was asked whether England would follow Northern Ireland in imposing stringent restrictions after the festive period.
He said: “We’re hoping very much that we will be able to avoid anything like that. But the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks.”
Schools minister Nick Gibb earlier insisted England’s tier system, which will see swathes of southern and eastern England move to the toughest restrictions, is “very effective”.
But he added “we rule nothing out” when asked about the possibility of a national lockdown after Christmas.
The president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, Dr Katherine Henderson, described a “real perfect storm” for hospitals as they try to balance increased numbers of Covid-19 patients with non-Covid work and a lack of beds.
She told the PA news agency: “It seems to me we need to do whatever it takes to get the situation firmly under control so that we can vaccinate people and then move forward.”
Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said nurses would not enjoy Christmas “knowing what awaits them in January”, amid fears of what she predicted could be an “unrelenting tsunami” of cases following relaxed restrictions.
She said ministers should give “fresh and more detailed” advice to the public with a week to go until Christmas.
Dr Nick Scriven, immediate past president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said a period of mixing next week “strikes fear into the hearts of clinicians on the front line”.
New figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest half of adults across the country are planning to form a Christmas bubble.
We’ve released new data from our Opinions and Lifestyle survey.
This week, we asked adults in Great Britain on their views about
▪ #Coronavirus vaccinations and mass testing
▪ their plans for Christmas.
The survey took place between 10-13 December https://t.co/hQMdatA5lL pic.twitter.com/xqLo4JRVgh — Office for National Statistics (ONS) (@ONS) December 18, 2020
The survey, carried out between December 10 and 13, before Mr Johnson urged people to scale back their festive plans, also found that fewer people are planning social activities such as meeting in pubs, cafes or bars, compared with last year.
Up to three households are able to mix between December 23 and 27, while travel to and from Northern Ireland is also permitted on December 22 and 28.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Local actor wants you to join him in the trenches

LOCAL actor Craig Leonard and volunteers have had thousands of views on their new online production Trenchers - a WW1 soap opera raising awareness of military charities struggling through Covid .
The project , which is close to ex-serviceman Craig ’ s heart , is filmed on an authentic set , made by Craig , and shows an educational look at what life was like in the trenches .
The 49-year-old , who runs monthly Wyre Forest Auctions at Wolverley Memorial Hall and a military and vintage fair at the Gilt Edge Centre in Kidderminster , has also taken on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and as a military history advisor to film and TV productions .
Craig has been involved in running military re-enactments and shows all over the country for more than 30 years and his expertise has landed him acting roles in major films - including Atonement and Cockneys vs Zombies - and BBC dramas such as Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell .
Trenchers is inviting submissions from anyone who has WW1 kit , to do a short sketch , to film and send in the footage .
You could be part of the cast @ @ @ @ @ @ @

The project, which is close to ex-serviceman Craig’s heart, is filmed on an authentic set, made by Craig, and shows an educational look at what life was like in the trenches.
The 49-year-old, who runs monthly Wyre Forest Auctions at Wolverley Memorial Hall and a military and vintage fair at the Gilt Edge Centre in Kidderminster, has also taken on roles assisting with set design, costume and as a military history advisor to film and TV productions.
Craig has been involved in running military re-enactments and shows all over the country for more than 30 years and his expertise has landed him acting roles in major films - including Atonement and Cockneys vs Zombies - and BBC dramas such as Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell.
Trenchers is inviting submissions from anyone who has WW1 kit, to do a short sketch, to film and send in the footage.
You could be part of the cast and film in your own location.
Go to: https://fb.watch/2eWVLbjNj_/


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Man behind Kidderminster's Fairtrade status Peter Grantham has died

A DEDICATED Fairtrade campaigner and long-serving member of Wyre Forest Liberal Democrats has died , aged 95 .
Peter Grantham was the driving force behind Kidderminster gaining status as a Fairtrade town from the Fairtrade Foundation in 2007 after a three-year campaign .
He led the Kidderminster Fairtrade group for five years , overseeing the first successful status renewal in 2009 , before retiring later that year , aged 83 .
Current chairman Sue Cowen said : `` Peter had such a pleasant and gently persuasive nature , no one could refuse him .
`` He was quietly , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of labour which drew him to support the Fairtrade campaign .
“ It has largely been his inspiration that has kept this small band of campaigners working over the subsequent years to ensure the town maintains the status.
” Prior to many years of active service for Wyre Forest Liberal Democrats , Peter had been a member of the Liberal party .
In 1979 , he was elected as a Liberal councillor for the then-Greenhill Ward in Kidderminster .
One of his successes of which he was most proud was persuading the council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separates the ring road from Anchorfields .
The crocuses have become naturalised there .
Until two years ago , Peter was still delivering Focus newsletters to houses near his home in Baldwin Road .
Speaking on behalf of the ward councillors , Councillor Fran Oborski said : “ Peter was a dedicated Liberal Democrat whose liberalism was an absolute part of who he was .
`` We will miss him greatly .
”

Peter Grantham was the driving force behind Kidderminster gaining status as a Fairtrade town from the Fairtrade Foundation in 2007 after a three-year campaign.
He led the Kidderminster Fairtrade group for five years, overseeing the first successful status renewal in 2009, before retiring later that year, aged 83.
Current chairman Sue Cowen said: "Peter had such a pleasant and gently persuasive nature, no one could refuse him.
"He was quietly, but doggedly, passionate about fairness and equality of labour which drew him to support the Fairtrade campaign.
“It has largely been his inspiration that has kept this small band of campaigners working over the subsequent years to ensure the town maintains the status.”
Prior to many years of active service for Wyre Forest Liberal Democrats, Peter had been a member of the Liberal party.
In 1979, he was elected as a Liberal councillor for the then-Greenhill Ward in Kidderminster.
One of his successes of which he was most proud was persuading the council to plant crocuses on the embankment which separates the ring road from Anchorfields. The crocuses have become naturalised there.
Until two years ago, Peter was still delivering Focus newsletters to houses near his home in Baldwin Road.
Speaking on behalf of the ward councillors, Councillor Fran Oborski said: “Peter was a dedicated Liberal Democrat whose liberalism was an absolute part of who he was.
"We will miss him greatly.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Prime Minister cancels Christmas get togethers for many

CHRISTMAS get togethers for people in England have been cut to just one day as news emerges of a new @ @ @ @ @ Minister Boris Johnson has announced new tougher tier four restrictions for much of the south @ @ @ @ @ relaxation of the rules that was planned to allow families from three households to get @ @ @ @ @ now been reduced to just one day for all people across the country .
So @ @ @ @ @ now only be able to meet up for festivities on Christmas Day ( December 25 @ @ @ @ @ announced the new rules at a press conference on Saturday afternoon , telling people it @ @ @ @ @ science changes `` we must change our response '' .
He said he knows how @ @ @ @ @ in this time of year '' but he stressed the new variant of coronavirus discovered @ @ @ @ @ was 70 per cent more transmissible than the old strain of the virus and he @ @ @ @ @ act to protect the public . ''

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced new tougher tier four restrictions for much of the south east of England and a relaxation of the rules that was planned to allow families from three households to get together over five days has now been reduced to just one day for all people across the country.
So families in Wyre Forest will now only be able to meet up for festivities on Christmas Day (December 25) itself.
The PM announced the new rules at a press conference on Saturday afternoon, telling people it was unfortunate but as the science changes "we must change our response".
He said he knows how much "emotion people invest in this time of year" but he stressed the new variant of coronavirus discovered in the last few days was 70 per cent more transmissible than the old strain of the virus and he added: "We must act to protect the public."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-19--Facebook UK users will lose EU privacy protections in 2021

Facebook will switch all United Kingdom account holders into user agreements with the firm 's corporate headquarters in California , steering them clear of EU privacy laws .
The current relationship with Facebook 's Irish unit will end next year as the UK leaves the European Union ( EU ) at the end of the Brexit transition period .
Facebook has said that the move will not change the privacy controls of UK users , or the services they are offered .
UK users are currently governed by agreements with Facebook ’ s headquarters in Dublin , Ireland , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit transition period comes to an end at the end of this year .
The tech giant told Reuters , “ Like other companies , Facebook has had to make changes to respond to Brexit and will be transferring legal responsibilities and obligations for UK users from Facebook Ireland to Facebook Inc .
There will be no change to the privacy controls or the services Facebook offers to people in the UK.
” Facebook Inc already has legal responsibility for other users from countries outside of the EU .
The UK is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Protection Regulation ( GDPR ) , with the Information Commissioner saying earlier this year that GDPR will be replaced by a similar “ UK GDPR.
” Facebook said that users will continue to remain subject to UK GDPR , and that there will be no change to the privacy controls .
The way in which Facebook collects and processes data and how it responds to law enforcement requests for people ’ s information will not change .
According to those familiar with the company , Facebook is making the move partly because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the strictest in the world .
The changes will come into effect in 2021 , with users to be notified by an update to Facebook ’ s terms of service in the first half of the year .
Facebook ’ s change follows a similar move announced by Google in February of this year .
However , a Twitter spokesman said UK users of that social media platform will continue to be handled by the company ’ s Dublin office .

The current relationship with Facebook's Irish unit will end next year as the UK leaves the European Union (EU) at the end of the Brexit transition period.
Facebook has said that the move will not change the privacy controls of UK users, or the services they are offered.
Changes after Brexit
UK users are currently governed by agreements with Facebook’s headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, but the legal relationship will change after the Brexit transition period comes to an end at the end of this year.
The tech giant told Reuters, “Like other companies, Facebook has had to make changes to respond to Brexit and will be transferring legal responsibilities and obligations for UK users from Facebook Ireland to Facebook Inc. There will be no change to the privacy controls or the services Facebook offers to people in the UK.”
Facebook Inc already has legal responsibility for other users from countries outside of the EU.
Facebook’s UK users will remain subject to UK laws.
The UK is currently protected by Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), with the Information Commissioner saying earlier this year that GDPR will be replaced by a similar “UK GDPR.”
Facebook said that users will continue to remain subject to UK GDPR, and that there will be no change to the privacy controls. The way in which Facebook collects and processes data and how it responds to law enforcement requests for people’s information will not change.
According to those familiar with the company, Facebook is making the move partly because the EU privacy regime is among one of the strictest in the world.
The changes will come into effect in 2021, with users to be notified by an update to Facebook’s terms of service in the first half of the year.
Facebook’s change follows a similar move announced by Google in February of this year. However, a Twitter spokesman said UK users of that social media platform will continue to be handled by the company’s Dublin office.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-20--Duo 'fill gap in the market' with new estate agents in Blakedown

A LEADING estate agents in Wolverhampton and Shropshire is investing £150,000 into setting up its first Worcestershire office at a Kidderminster golf club .
Berriman Eaton , which has completed over 400 sales worth £165 million since the first lockdown , is expanding its geographic horizons by launching its first local presence at Churchill and Blakedown Golf Club .
The company has joined forces with two local experts , Debbie Fellows and Julia Simons , who previously ran the Bromsgrove and Kidderminster offices at Andrew Grant for 15 years until their closure in June .
Debbie said : `` With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices in June , we felt there was a gap in the market for a bespoke , high-end estate agency selling the cream of the county .
“ The opportunity came up to join forces with Berriman Eaton , who were looking to build on demand from existing and new clients for a dedicated Worcestershire operation.
” Debbie and Julia will head-up the Berrington Eaton Worcestershire operation and will be responsible for selling and letting prestigious properties across the county , from Hagley in the east to Cleobury Mortimer in the west , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to Droitwich Spa in the south .
Debbie said : `` It was an easy decision for us to join the team as directors .
We love the firm ’ s ethos , its reputation , integrity and track record for selling beautiful homes and apartments .
Now it ’ s time to build the BE brand in a previously untapped area rich in potential.
” Julia added : “ Each buyer has different needs , from being near the best schools or a railway station , to having a dedicated work-from-home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is paramount to ensuring a smooth sale with the best price .
`` Every house that goes on the market is someone else ’ s dream home and , with our experience and expertise of the local market , we can make that dream come true .
`` We ’ re like old-fashioned matchmakers , but with state-of-the-art back-up and great marketing !
” Berriman Eaton was created in 2006 following the amalgamation of David Berriman and Eaton Estates and today operates from three offices in Bridgnorth , Tettenhall and Wombourne .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has seen a major increase in demand for properties following lockdown , with a combination of the stamp duty holiday and couples and families looking for more green outside spaces .
Caroline Eaton , who runs the business with Nick Berriman , said : “ We had been looking at expanding into parts of Worcestershire for some time as we have seen a dramatic increase of buyers located in the south of the region .
`` When we realised Debbie and Julia were looking for a new opportunity , it made perfect sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have some of the best local contacts in the sector and we will reinforce this by investing in a new central location and giving them all the administrative and marketing support Berriman Eaton is renowned for .
”

Berriman Eaton, which has completed over 400 sales worth £165 million since the first lockdown, is expanding its geographic horizons by launching its first local presence at Churchill and Blakedown Golf Club.
The company has joined forces with two local experts, Debbie Fellows and Julia Simons, who previously ran the Bromsgrove and Kidderminster offices at Andrew Grant for 15 years until their closure in June.
Caroline Eaton, Debbie Fellows, Julia Simonds and Nick Berriman
Debbie said: "With the sad closure of the Andrew Grant offices in June, we felt there was a gap in the market for a bespoke, high-end estate agency selling the cream of the county.
“The opportunity came up to join forces with Berriman Eaton, who were looking to build on demand from existing and new clients for a dedicated Worcestershire operation.”
Debbie and Julia will head-up the Berrington Eaton Worcestershire operation and will be responsible for selling and letting prestigious properties across the county, from Hagley in the east to Cleobury Mortimer in the west, the village of Kinver in the north and to Droitwich Spa in the south.
Debbie said: "It was an easy decision for us to join the team as directors. We love the firm’s ethos, its reputation, integrity and track record for selling beautiful homes and apartments. Now it’s time to build the BE brand in a previously untapped area rich in potential.”
Julia added: “Each buyer has different needs, from being near the best schools or a railway station, to having a dedicated work-from-home space.
“Understanding buyers’ needs is paramount to ensuring a smooth sale with the best price.
"Every house that goes on the market is someone else’s dream home and, with our experience and expertise of the local market, we can make that dream come true.
"We’re like old-fashioned matchmakers, but with state-of-the-art back-up and great marketing!”
Berriman Eaton was created in 2006 following the amalgamation of David Berriman and Eaton Estates and today operates from three offices in Bridgnorth, Tettenhall and Wombourne.
Read more:
The company, which employs 25 people, has seen a major increase in demand for properties following lockdown, with a combination of the stamp duty holiday and couples and families looking for more green outside spaces.
Caroline Eaton, who runs the business with Nick Berriman, said: “We had been looking at expanding into parts of Worcestershire for some time as we have seen a dramatic increase of buyers located in the south of the region.
"When we realised Debbie and Julia were looking for a new opportunity, it made perfect sense to combine our strengths.
“They have some of the best local contacts in the sector and we will reinforce this by investing in a new central location and giving them all the administrative and marketing support Berriman Eaton is renowned for.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-20--Recycle your Christmas tree in aid of Kidderminster KEMP Hospice

BEAT the queues for the tip this year and have your Christmas tree collected while raising money for a Kidderminster charity .
That 's the post-Christmas call from KEMP Hospice , which has opened registrations for the third year running for its Christmas tree recycling campaign .
The charity has teamed up with local companies Rosie 's Ground Maintenance and Hire It !
once again to collect residents ' real trees from homes across the district between Saturday , January 9 and Tuesday , January 12 in return for a donation to KEMP .
Head of fundraising at KEMP , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a real tree , but once Christmas is over , you are left with a prickly problem and we want to take that hassle away for local people .
`` Last year we collected over 300 trees and we would love to double that this year .
`` We are so grateful to volunteers from local businesses and across our community who are generously volunteering their time to support our campaign and to help us raise funds to support local families from across the Wyre Forest who need us the most.
” KEMP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be making their rounds throughout the Wyre Forest area collecting and recycling trees , with local businesses BEPCO , Hatt Kitchens , Hobsons Brewery and De Beers Garden Centre already pledging their support .
Anyone wishing to have their real Christmas tree collected and recycled in aid of KEMP Hospice can register online at kemphospice.org.uk/christmastree .
The team will be collecting from following postcodes : DY10 1 , DY10 2 , DY10 3 , DY10 4 , DY11 5 , DY11 6 , DY11 7 , DY12 1 , DY12 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you have access to a van and would also like to help with collections , contact the KEMP fundraising team on 01562 756066 .

That's the post-Christmas call from KEMP Hospice, which has opened registrations for the third year running for its Christmas tree recycling campaign.
The charity has teamed up with local companies Rosie's Ground Maintenance and Hire It! once again to collect residents' real trees from homes across the district between Saturday, January 9 and Tuesday, January 12 in return for a donation to KEMP.
Head of fundraising at KEMP, Charlie Homer said: “Everyone loves a real tree, but once Christmas is over, you are left with a prickly problem and we want to take that hassle away for local people.
"Last year we collected over 300 trees and we would love to double that this year.
"We are so grateful to volunteers from local businesses and across our community who are generously volunteering their time to support our campaign and to help us raise funds to support local families from across the Wyre Forest who need us the most.”
KEMP Hospice’s dedicated team of volunteers will be making their rounds throughout the Wyre Forest area collecting and recycling trees, with local businesses BEPCO, Hatt Kitchens, Hobsons Brewery and De Beers Garden Centre already pledging their support.
Anyone wishing to have their real Christmas tree collected and recycled in aid of KEMP Hospice can register online at kemphospice.org.uk/christmastree.
The team will be collecting from following postcodes: DY10 1, DY10 2, DY10 3, DY10 4, DY11 5, DY11 6, DY11 7, DY12 1, DY12 2, DY13 8, and DY13 9.
If you have access to a van and would also like to help with collections, contact the KEMP fundraising team on 01562 756066.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-20--‘Christmas star’ will appear for the first time in 800 years

Jupiter and Saturn are set to closely align in the night ’ s sky to form a ‘ Christmas Star ’ , for the first time in 800 years .
The two planets will line up to create a bright light visible from Earth on Monday 21 December - the same date as the winter solstice .
The celestial event is known as the Great Conjunction by astronomers and has also been nicknamed a Christmas Star or Star of Bethlehem .
What is the Christmas Star ?
In the bible , the Christmas Star was what the wise men used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the birthplace of Jesus Christ .
What the actual bright light was has been debated for many years with one possible explanation being a rare conjunction of multiple planets .
In more recent times the Christmas Star , or Star of Bethlehem , is often the final decorative piece placed on the tops of Christmas trees .
The Great Conjunction has also taken the nickname of Christmas Star and Star of Bethlehem due to the time of the year this alignment occurs .
What is the Great Conjunction ?
It ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appear to align in the night ’ s sky .
The two Gas Giants are rarely seen this close , with experts predicting they will be separated by less than the apparent diameter of the moon .
Though they will look aligned the two planets will be hundreds of millions of miles apart .
When was the last Great Conjunction ?
The orbits of the two Gas Giants and Earth means there is an alignment every 20 years , which makes Jupiter and Saturn appear closer in the night ’ s sky .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was way back in the 13th Century and NASA doesn ’ t predict another alignment this close for another 60 years .
Patrick Hartigan , an astronomer at Rice University in America , said in an interview with Forbes that it was an “ exceptionally rare ” event .
And added the last time the planets were aligned this close was on 4 March 1226 .
Where will I be able to see the Christmas Star ?
The Christmas Star will be visible from Earth , with the help of a clear night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will move into closer alignment from Thursday 17 December for roughly a week , with the closest point being Monday 21 December .
Stargazers can expect to see the phenomenon low in the western sky shortly after sunset , meaning people in the UK should be on the lookout from 3.54pm .
It is bright enough to be seen without the use of telescopes or binoculars , yet astronomers say several of the planets ’ satellites will be visible with viewing aides .
How far away are Saturn and Jupiter from Earth ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ changing due to the different orbits of the two planets .
It is 365 million miles away at its closest point and 601 million miles away at its furthest .
It 's a similar story with Saturn 's orbit , which has its own course and does n't run parallel with Earth 's , meaning the distance varies .
Even at its closest point Saturn is still 746 million miles away and just over a billion miles away from Earth at its furthest point .
There are 403.3 million miles between Jupiter and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jupiter ?
Jupiter , the fifth planet from the Sun , is the largest in the Solar System .
It is 11 times wider than Earth , with a radius of 43,440 miles .
Saturn is sixth in line in the order of planets from the Sun and is the second largest .
It is nine times the width of Earth , with a radius of 36,183 miles .
Earth has a radius of 3,960 miles .
The radius is a straight line from the centre to the circumference of a circle .

The two planets will line up to create a bright light visible from Earth on Monday 21 December - the same date as the winter solstice.
The celestial event is known as the Great Conjunction by astronomers and has also been nicknamed a Christmas Star or Star of Bethlehem.
What is the Christmas Star?
In the bible, the Christmas Star was what the wise men used as a guide to help them find the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
What the actual bright light was has been debated for many years with one possible explanation being a rare conjunction of multiple planets.
In more recent times the Christmas Star, or Star of Bethlehem, is often the final decorative piece placed on the tops of Christmas trees.
The Great Conjunction has also taken the nickname of Christmas Star and Star of Bethlehem due to the time of the year this alignment occurs.
What is the Great Conjunction?
It’s a rare phenomenon which sees Jupiter and Saturn appear to align in the night’s sky.
The two Gas Giants are rarely seen this close, with experts predicting they will be separated by less than the apparent diameter of the moon.
Though they will look aligned the two planets will be hundreds of millions of miles apart.
When was the last Great Conjunction?
The orbits of the two Gas Giants and Earth means there is an alignment every 20 years, which makes Jupiter and Saturn appear closer in the night’s sky.
The last time they appeared this close was way back in the 13th Century and NASA doesn’t predict another alignment this close for another 60 years.
Patrick Hartigan, an astronomer at Rice University in America, said in an interview with Forbes that it was an “exceptionally rare” event.
And added the last time the planets were aligned this close was on 4 March 1226.
Where will I be able to see the Christmas Star?
The Christmas Star will be visible from Earth, with the help of a clear night’s sky.
The two planets will move into closer alignment from Thursday 17 December for roughly a week, with the closest point being Monday 21 December.
Read more: When is the shortest day of the year 2020? Date of the winter solstice and how many hours of daylight there are
Stargazers can expect to see the phenomenon low in the western sky shortly after sunset, meaning people in the UK should be on the lookout from 3.54pm.
It is bright enough to be seen without the use of telescopes or binoculars, yet astronomers say several of the planets’ satellites will be visible with viewing aides.
How far away are Saturn and Jupiter from Earth?
Jupiter's distance from Earth is constantly changing due to the different orbits of the two planets. It is 365 million miles away at its closest point and 601 million miles away at its furthest.
It's a similar story with Saturn's orbit, which has its own course and doesn't run parallel with Earth's, meaning the distance varies.
Even at its closest point Saturn is still 746 million miles away and just over a billion miles away from Earth at its furthest point.
There are 403.3 million miles between Jupiter and Saturn.
How big are Saturn and Jupiter?
Jupiter, the fifth planet from the Sun, is the largest in the Solar System. It is 11 times wider than Earth, with a radius of 43,440 miles.
Saturn is sixth in line in the order of planets from the Sun and is the second largest. It is nine times the width of Earth, with a radius of 36,183 miles.
Earth has a radius of 3,960 miles. The radius is a straight line from the centre to the circumference of a circle.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-12-20--How to deal with not seeing friends and family at Christmas

It 's the question we 're all asking ourselves this Christmas .
Should we be seeing out family as the big day draws closer ?
Covid restrictions are currently set to be eased over the festive period , but people are being encouraged to make a “ personal judgement ” on whether to visit loved ones , and to act sensibly and responsibly if they do choose to spend the holidays with others .
The Prime Minister urged the public to show “ extreme caution ” over the festive season .
At a Downing Street press conference , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas , and I ’ m afraid this year I do mean little.
” If you have made the incredibly tough decision to stay home this year , it will almost certainly be a little heartbreaking .
It ’ s hard to imagine the big day without mum ’ s cooking , dad ’ s terrible jokes or popping to the local pub for a pint with your nearest and dearest .
Here , we asked experts how we can best emotionally prepare ourselves for the prospect of Christmas spent apart from family… @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After a difficult year , the thought of missing Christmas too can be hard to accept .
While it ’ s natural to feel upset , Dr Meg Arroll , chartered psychologist on behalf of Healthspan , says it ’ s important you don ’ t let the loss consume you .
“ Process the emotions , but try to do it without getting stuck in ruminative thought patterns , ” she says .
“ Think about feelings like taking a bath ; at first it ’ s doing its job , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murky and unhelpful.
” While you might not be able to drive back to your parents ’ house , perhaps you can plan something fun to do at home instead ?
Making a new plan can help you feel more settled .
“ Aligning expectations with coronavirus reality will prevent you from feeling further heartbreak , ” says Dr Arroll , “ so face the restrictions head on and decide as a family how you ’ ll manage these.
” 3 .
Try incorporating some new traditions It can be hard to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year you may have to find ways to have a joyful day despite Covid .
Experts say that one of the best ways to embrace this is to plan a Christmas completely unlike your usual family celebrations .
“ By doing things differently , even in the tiniest way , you won ’ t be triggered by memories that could upset you on Christmas , ” says grief and loss counsellor Lianna Champ .
“ Make a conscious decision to reset the ‘ Christmas spirit button ’ and make new memories .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ normally have turkey , or allow yourself to spend the day in Christmas pyjamas if you normally dress smartly for the day.
” Although you may not be able to be physically near your family , video conferencing apps allow us to still check in on the big day .
“ Create a family zoom meeting where you can all be connected for 60 minutes on Christmas Day , ” says Neil Wilkie , creator of online therapy platform The Relationship Paradigm .
“ Taking it in turns , each of you could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learnt this year , what you would like next year to be like , and one wish you would like to grant each member of your family.
” If you ’ re tired of video calls , keep in touch over WhatsApp instead .
“ You don ’ t have to all be sitting on Zoom but everyone in the family could agree to watch the Queen ’ s Speech when it ’ s aired to create a sense of ‘ together-although-apart ’ , ” adds Dr Arroll .
5 .
See the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us can agree it ’ s been a pretty rubbish year .
The one upside ?
We ’ ll all be cheering to see the back of 2020 on New Year ’ s Eve , and that ‘ fresh year ’ spirit will feel better than ever .
“ With the expectations of the Christmas period lowered , the ‘ emotional comedown ’ will feel like less of a drop this January , ” says relationship counsellor Mig Bennett .
“ Use the New Year as an opportunity to assess the challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Acknowledge what you ’ ve learned and how you ’ ve grown , or what you still need to work on .
Remember to say thank you to your partner and family for things you ’ ve appreciated too.
” 6 .
Try to see the funny side 2020 has been a tough one for everyone , but try to find some humour in the chaos if you can .
“ While it will be incredibly hard to be apart from your nearest and dearest , do you best to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Bennett .
“ The important thing is that you and your family are healthy and you can always celebrate again together when you ’ re allowed .
”

Covid restrictions are currently set to be eased over the festive period, but people are being encouraged to make a “personal judgement” on whether to visit loved ones, and to act sensibly and responsibly if they do choose to spend the holidays with others.
The Prime Minister urged the public to show “extreme caution” over the festive season.
At a Downing Street press conference, he said: “Have yourself a merry little Christmas, and I’m afraid this year I do mean little.”
If you have made the incredibly tough decision to stay home this year, it will almost certainly be a little heartbreaking. It’s hard to imagine the big day without mum’s cooking, dad’s terrible jokes or popping to the local pub for a pint with your nearest and dearest.
Here, we asked experts how we can best emotionally prepare ourselves for the prospect of Christmas spent apart from family…
1. Allow yourself to feel disappointed
After a difficult year, the thought of missing Christmas too can be hard to accept. While it’s natural to feel upset, Dr Meg Arroll, chartered psychologist on behalf of Healthspan, says it’s important you don’t let the loss consume you.
“Process the emotions, but try to do it without getting stuck in ruminative thought patterns,” she says. “Think about feelings like taking a bath; at first it’s doing its job, but after too long the water gets rather murky and unhelpful.”
2. Consider the alternatives
While you might not be able to drive back to your parents’ house, perhaps you can plan something fun to do at home instead? Making a new plan can help you feel more settled.
“Aligning expectations with coronavirus reality will prevent you from feeling further heartbreak,” says Dr Arroll, “so face the restrictions head on and decide as a family how you’ll manage these.”
3. Try incorporating some new traditions
It can be hard to let go of old rituals and routines but this year you may have to find ways to have a joyful day despite Covid. Experts say that one of the best ways to embrace this is to plan a Christmas completely unlike your usual family celebrations.
“By doing things differently, even in the tiniest way, you won’t be triggered by memories that could upset you on Christmas,” says grief and loss counsellor Lianna Champ. “Make a conscious decision to reset the ‘Christmas spirit button’ and make new memories. You could try having beef if you normally have turkey, or allow yourself to spend the day in Christmas pyjamas if you normally dress smartly for the day.”
4. Stay connected with technology
Although you may not be able to be physically near your family, video conferencing apps allow us to still check in on the big day.
“Create a family zoom meeting where you can all be connected for 60 minutes on Christmas Day,” says Neil Wilkie, creator of online therapy platform The Relationship Paradigm. “Taking it in turns, each of you could share a story of something you have learnt this year, what you would like next year to be like, and one wish you would like to grant each member of your family.”
If you’re tired of video calls, keep in touch over WhatsApp instead. “You don’t have to all be sitting on Zoom but everyone in the family could agree to watch the Queen’s Speech when it’s aired to create a sense of ‘together-although-apart’,” adds Dr Arroll.
5. See the New Year as a fresh slate
Most of us can agree it’s been a pretty rubbish year. The one upside? We’ll all be cheering to see the back of 2020 on New Year’s Eve, and that ‘fresh year’ spirit will feel better than ever.
“With the expectations of the Christmas period lowered, the ‘emotional comedown’ will feel like less of a drop this January,” says relationship counsellor Mig Bennett. “Use the New Year as an opportunity to assess the challenges or changes 2020 has brought to you.
“Acknowledge what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown, or what you still need to work on. Remember to say thank you to your partner and family for things you’ve appreciated too.”
6. Try to see the funny side
2020 has been a tough one for everyone, but try to find some humour in the chaos if you can.
“While it will be incredibly hard to be apart from your nearest and dearest, do you best to make the most of the situation,” says Bennett. “The important thing is that you and your family are healthy and you can always celebrate again together when you’re allowed.”