kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-03--Worcestershire hospitals treat assault victims three times a week

VICTIMS of assault were treated in hospital almost three times every week at the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust last year , new figures show .
Anti-violence charities say it is clear more needs to be done to tackle issues such as knife crime and alcohol-fuelled brawls , after figures revealed English hospitals are tending to thousands of injured victims every year .
Analysis of NHS figures shows doctors at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust saw 145 patients who had been admitted to hospital after being assaulted in 2019-20 – an average of almost three patients every week .
They were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ midlands .
The figures – which are rounded to the nearest five – count each period a patient spends under one consultant 's care , so someone could be captured more than once .
Across England , 28,905 assault admissions were recorded , with 29,483 episodes of consultant care between them .
Local breakdowns on the type of assault are not available , but nationally assault by bodily force was the most common cause of admission , accounting for 16,852 hospital stays .
This was followed by knife and sharp object attacks ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ object ( 2,115 ) .
Patrick Green , CEO of anti-knife charity the Ben Kinsella Trust , said it was a relief to see a drop in knife-related injuries , after admissions fell from 5,069 in 2018-19 .
But with admissions still the third highest for a decade , he said there is still a `` long way to go before we can start to think that we are turning the tide on knife crime '' .
He added : `` No child is born carrying a knife .
It is a learned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime to help them to make positive choices , and not end up in hospital wards or police cells . ''
Charity Stand Against Violence however said the figures show knives are not as much of a problem as fists , despite `` relentless emphasis and media storms '' on knife crime .
CEO Adam Fouracre said : `` We need to ensure our efforts to tackle violence focus on tackling violence holistically and not honing in on weapons . ''
Alcohol use , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a major contributor to societal violence , he added .
The figures also reveal different types of assault suffered by male and female patients – the second most common reason for women and girls to be under a consultant 's care was assaults involving physical and sexual abuse , mental cruelty or torture .
There were 1,012 such cases nationally in 2019-20 , accounting for one in six female assault victims , and an increase of 31 % compared to 2015-16 .
Cases of sexual assault among women and girls meanwhile increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 219 cases across England .
Sarah Green , director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition , said the figures show doctors , nurses and paramedics are seeing victims of domestic and sexual violence routinely , and called for medics to ensure that women are directed to the necessary support .

Anti-violence charities say it is clear more needs to be done to tackle issues such as knife crime and alcohol-fuelled brawls, after figures revealed English hospitals are tending to thousands of injured victims every year.
Analysis of NHS figures shows doctors at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust saw 145 patients who had been admitted to hospital after being assaulted in 2019-20 – an average of almost three patients every week.
They were among 4,680 assault victims recorded across the midlands.
The figures – which are rounded to the nearest five – count each period a patient spends under one consultant's care, so someone could be captured more than once.
Across England, 28,905 assault admissions were recorded, with 29,483 episodes of consultant care between them.
Local breakdowns on the type of assault are not available, but nationally assault by bodily force was the most common cause of admission, accounting for 16,852 hospital stays.
This was followed by knife and sharp object attacks (4,674) and assaults with a blunt object (2,115).
Patrick Green, CEO of anti-knife charity the Ben Kinsella Trust, said it was a relief to see a drop in knife-related injuries, after admissions fell from 5,069 in 2018-19.
But with admissions still the third highest for a decade, he said there is still a "long way to go before we can start to think that we are turning the tide on knife crime".
He added: "No child is born carrying a knife. It is a learned behaviour. We have to do more to educate young people about the dangers of knife crime to help them to make positive choices, and not end up in hospital wards or police cells."
Charity Stand Against Violence however said the figures show knives are not as much of a problem as fists, despite "relentless emphasis and media storms" on knife crime.
CEO Adam Fouracre said: "We need to ensure our efforts to tackle violence focus on tackling violence holistically and not honing in on weapons."
Alcohol use, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, is a major contributor to societal violence, he added.
The figures also reveal different types of assault suffered by male and female patients – the second most common reason for women and girls to be under a consultant's care was assaults involving physical and sexual abuse, mental cruelty or torture.
There were 1,012 such cases nationally in 2019-20, accounting for one in six female assault victims, and an increase of 31% compared to 2015-16.
Cases of sexual assault among women and girls meanwhile increased by 89%, climbing from 116 to 219 cases across England.
Sarah Green, director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition, said the figures show doctors, nurses and paramedics are seeing victims of domestic and sexual violence routinely, and called for medics to ensure that women are directed to the necessary support.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-03--Apple add 177 new emojis for iPhone users - including gender-neutral brides and grooms

Apple has revealed that iPhone users will be able to access more than 100 new emojis with the next iOS14 update .
Among those joining the line-up include a happy crying face , a container of bubble tea , and an accordion .
The new set will also feature a transgender symbol , a gender-neutral Santa Claus , and gender-fluid people wearing wedding tuxedos and dresses .
We 've put together what you need to know .
Will iPad users be able to access them too ?
Yes , the emojis will be available as part of the iOS 14.2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What will the new emoji 's look like ?
Here is a sneak peek at the new additions .
New emoji 's dubbed as ' a first for Apple' The new batch of emojis marks the first time Apple has produced gender variations for people wearing a tuxedo or wedding veil .
Prior releases assigned a man to wear the tuxedo and a woman to wear a veil , but these have been reclassified by Unicode as gender-neutral emojis in Emoji 13.0 .
There is also Mx Claus - a gender-inclusive alternative to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ featured in the new batch of emojis is a Groucho Marx face , bubble tea and a picket sign .
Fans of animals are in for a treat , with the arrival of a new beaver emoji .
There is also an antelope and mammoth as part of the release .
When will the new emojis be released ?
iOS 14.2 is in beta now , for developer testing .
It 's likely that this will come to a public release during October 2020 .
These new emojis are also included in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and coming to macOS 11 Big Sur in October 2020 .

Among those joining the line-up include a happy crying face, a container of bubble tea, and an accordion.
The new set will also feature a transgender symbol, a gender-neutral Santa Claus, and gender-fluid people wearing wedding tuxedos and dresses.
We've put together what you need to know.
Will iPad users be able to access them too?
Yes, the emojis will be available as part of the iOS 14.2 software update on iPhones and iPads.
What will the new emoji's look like?
Here is a sneak peek at the new additions.
📝 Emoji 13.0
🔢 117 New Emojis
🗓 Approved Jan 2020
📲 On Phones: By end of 2020
🔗 https://t.co/opL7fSXpSk
📝 Emoji 13.1
🔢 217 New Emojis
🗓 Approved: Sep 2020
📲 On Phones: By end of 2021
🔗 https://t.co/PpSN93qXO7
ℹ Designs vary by vendor. Emojipedia Sample Images shown. pic.twitter.com/21eu2gH90K — Emojipedia (@Emojipedia) September 19, 2020
New emoji's dubbed as 'a first for Apple'
The new batch of emojis marks the first time Apple has produced gender variations for people wearing a tuxedo or wedding veil.
Prior releases assigned a man to wear the tuxedo and a woman to wear a veil, but these have been reclassified by Unicode as gender-neutral emojis in Emoji 13.0.
There is also Mx Claus - a gender-inclusive alternative to Santa Claus or Mrs Claus.
Also featured in the new batch of emojis is a Groucho Marx face, bubble tea and a picket sign.
Fans of animals are in for a treat, with the arrival of a new beaver emoji. There is also an antelope and mammoth as part of the release.
When will the new emojis be released?
iOS 14.2 is in beta now, for developer testing. It's likely that this will come to a public release during October 2020.
These new emojis are also included in the latest macOS Big Sur beta releases, and coming to macOS 11 Big Sur in October 2020.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-03--BEE alert for this foreign killer

BEE alert for this foreign killer

BEE-WARE – there ’ s a foreign invader in our midst ready to prey on our traditional British wildlife .
A plea has gone out to local people to keep a beedy out for Asian Hornets spreading through the West Midlands and killing off our defenceless native bees .
So far the hornets – the size of a very large wasp and ten times bigger than European hornets – have been spotted and tackled in Gloucestershire and along the South Coast , but the threat to bee hives across the UK is growing .
The British Beekeepers Association say : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pollinators , including our honey bees , it is important to have everyone actively looking for it.
” In Europe bees have developed defence strategies , but British bees haven ’ t yet .
The hornets need insect prey to feed to their larvae , and bee hives are a very reliable constant source of food .
• How to spot them : The hornets are black , with six yellow “ socks ” , and a single yellow band near the tail-end of their abdomen .
The nests are usually built in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ readily seen before the leaves drop in the autumn .
They may be expected to be the size up to a large football , made of paper machee , like a very large wasp nest .
• What to do : You are asked to take a photograph of the insect you suspect to be an AH , and of a nest ; and report when and where you have seen it .
• Where do I report them : Use the ‘ Asian Hornet Watch ’ app available for I Phone and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and photo to : alertnonnative @ ceh.ac.uk .
Or fill out an online report form at https : //www.brc.ac.uk/risc/alert.php ?
species=asian_hornet • Warning : They are generally harmless , and only near their nests aggressive and defensive .
Therefore , if you find a nest , leave it well alone .
This time of year , you are likely to find the Hornet foraging on Ivy .

A plea has gone out to local people to keep a beedy out for Asian Hornets spreading through the West Midlands and killing off our defenceless native bees.
So far the hornets – the size of a very large wasp and with a nest ten times bigger than European hornets – have been spotted and tackled in Gloucestershire and along the South Coast, but the threat to bee hives across the UK is growing.
The British Beekeepers Association say: “This alien species could decimate our pollinators, including our honey bees, it is important to have everyone actively looking for it.”
In its normal habitat in Asia bees have developed defence strategies, but British bees haven’t yet. The hornets need insect prey to feed to their larvae, and bee hives are a very reliable constant source of food.
How to spot them: The hornets are black, with six yellow “socks”, and a single yellow band near the tail-end of their abdomen. The nests are usually built in the crown of tall trees, not readily seen before the leaves drop in the autumn. They may be expected to be the size up to a large football, made of paper machee, like a very large wasp nest.
What to do: You are asked to take a photograph of the insect you suspect to be an AH, and of a nest; and report when and where you have seen it.
Where do I report them: Use the ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app available for I Phone and android; Email location, date number and photo to: alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk. Or fill out an online report form at https://www.brc.ac.uk/risc/alert.php?species=asian_hornet
Warning: They are generally harmless, and only near their nests aggressive and defensive. Therefore, if you find a nest, leave it well alone. This time of year, you are likely to find the Hornet foraging on Ivy.
This report has been amended. Originally it said the hornets were ten times bigger, not their nests, and the European bees had defence mechanisms, not Asian ones.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Five most haunted pubs in Worcestershire

VODKA and rum are not the only spirits lurking in these Worcestershire pubs .
From phantom black cats to pint glasses that smash on their own , a lot of unexplained stories have come out of pubs in the region .
With Halloween just around the corner , now is the perfect time to visit these spooky places and do some ghost hunting for yourself… if you ’ re brave enough .
Here are five of the most haunted pubs in Worcestershire- and the stories and legends that have come out of them .
Before being transformed into a pub @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Inn from the 13th century- it is said to have an incredibly haunted history .
A young woman in Quaker clothing has been spotted in room 11- she has been seen disappearing in and out of the window .
A phantom black cat has also been seen in the hotel and it was described as “ bundle of wool ” that frightened the bartender ’ s dog- but it hasn ’ t been spotted since it was refurbished back in 2004 .
Ye Olde Black Cross is a historic pub which dates back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a holding pen for criminals who were sentenced to death and hung .
The ghosts of the criminals are still said to lurk in the pub , along with the spirit of a little girl and a cavalier soldier who is often spotted walking to the bar .
Unexplained images and apparitions have also shown up on CCTV .
The pub is also an inn , with two haunted rooms to stay at if you are brave enough .
This pub used to be a church dating back as far as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a graveyard- a lot of strange occurrences have been reported in the pub ’ s history .
A ghost called Bert is said to haunt the hallways and visitors might hear him wandering around the upper parts of the building .
Customers at the pub report seeing pint glasses swinging like a pendulum .
Judy Allen , landlady at the pub , said glasses have even smashed with no logical explanation as to why .
She told Worcester News back in 2002 : `` We had friends round that afternoon and as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crashing of glass .
`` We went behind the bar and one tumbler fell about two inches on to the floor and it broke into pieces .
`` The noise was unnaturally loud considering it fell two inches on to lino .
One Trip Advisor user said that the “ place is clearly haunted ” - while it is “ beautifully kept ” with a “ great atmosphere ” Creepy happenings have reported to have happened at one of the oldest pubs in Worcester .
Objects have been moved , items have fallen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been heard despite no-one being around .
People have reported seeing a little blonde girl running across the first floor .
People also claim that rooms on the first floor suddenly get very hot before rapidly cooling down again- could this be related to the fire that broke out here during the Victorian era ?
A ghostly apparition nick-named Sid is said to roam The Kings Head .
The mischievous ghost is said to tilt pictures , ring bells and turn off beer barrels .
Locals at the pub said the ghost would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period clothing .
The newest landlords said that no major paranormal activity has happened recently- but papers have knocked off the bar without cause and doors have closed even after being propped open .
Have you had any paranormal experience in Worcestershire ?
Share them in the comments or email sarah.mcgee @ newsquest.co.uk .

From phantom black cats to pint glasses that smash on their own, a lot of unexplained stories have come out of pubs in the region.
With Halloween just around the corner, now is the perfect time to visit these spooky places and do some ghost hunting for yourself… if you’re brave enough.
Here are five of the most haunted pubs in Worcestershire- and the stories and legends that have come out of them.
Ye Olde Talbot, Friar Street, Worcester
(Credit: Google Maps)
Before being transformed into a pub. Ye Olde Talbot was a coaching Inn from the 13th century- it is said to have an incredibly haunted history.
A young woman in Quaker clothing has been spotted in room 11- she has been seen disappearing in and out of the window.
A phantom black cat has also been seen in the hotel and it was described as “bundle of wool” that frightened the bartender’s dog- but it hasn’t been spotted since it was refurbished back in 2004.
Ye Olde Black Cross, Worcester Road, Bromsgrove
(Credit: Google Maps)
Ye Olde Black Cross is a historic pub which dates back as far as 1640; It used to be a holding pen for criminals who were sentenced to death and hung.
The ghosts of the criminals are still said to lurk in the pub, along with the spirit of a little girl and a cavalier soldier who is often spotted walking to the bar.
Unexplained images and apparitions have also shown up on CCTV.
The pub is also an inn, with two haunted rooms to stay at if you are brave enough.
The Mug House, Claines Lane, Worcester
(Credit: Geograph, Roy Hughes)
This pub used to be a church dating back as far as the 15th century and was built withing a graveyard- a lot of strange occurrences have been reported in the pub’s history.
A ghost called Bert is said to haunt the hallways and visitors might hear him wandering around the upper parts of the building.
Customers at the pub report seeing pint glasses swinging like a pendulum.
Judy Allen, landlady at the pub, said glasses have even smashed with no logical explanation as to why.
She told Worcester News back in 2002: "We had friends round that afternoon and as we came behind the bar we heard the crashing of glass.
"We went behind the bar and one tumbler fell about two inches on to the floor and it broke into pieces.
"The noise was unnaturally loud considering it fell two inches on to lino.
One Trip Advisor user said that the “place is clearly haunted”- while it is “beautifully kept” with a “great atmosphere”
The Cardinal’s Hat, Friar Street, Worcester
(Credit: Google Maps)
Creepy happenings have reported to have happened at one of the oldest pubs in Worcester.
Objects have been moved, items have fallen off the walls and faint conversations have been heard despite no-one being around.
People have reported seeing a little blonde girl running across the first floor.
People also claim that rooms on the first floor suddenly get very hot before rapidly cooling down again- could this be related to the fire that broke out here during the Victorian era?
The King's Head, Sidbury, Worcester
(Credit: Google Maps)
A ghostly apparition nick-named Sid is said to roam The Kings Head.
The mischievous ghost is said to tilt pictures, ring bells and turn off beer barrels.
Locals at the pub said the ghost would walk through walls while wearing pantaloons and period clothing.
The newest landlords said that no major paranormal activity has happened recently- but papers have knocked off the bar without cause and doors have closed even after being propped open.
Have you had any paranormal experience in Worcestershire? Share them in the comments or email sarah.mcgee@newsquest.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Death notices from this week's Kidderminster Shuttle

The following death notices were published in the Kidderminster Shuttle this week : For more information or to leave your @ @ @ @ @

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--These are the most expensive dog breeds to own in 2020

New research has revealed the most expensive dog breeds to keep and care for in the UK .
Experts from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have researched more than 40 of the most popular dog breeds to compile a new list of the pooches which burn the biggest holes in owners ’ pockets .
What is the most expensive dog breed ?
Standard Poodles take the crown for being the most cash-demanding breed .
After considering the cost of feeding , insuring and grooming Poodles over their average lifespan , as well as day-to-day accessory and equipment costs , this breed can set owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saint Bernard owners will also require deep pockets as these giant breeds cost around £1,800 every year – and they usually live to around nine – but even 7.5kg Lhasa Apsos are ‘ cash demanding ’ .
With their intense grooming schedules , these fluffy pups tend to cost over £14,000 throughout their lifetimes – significantly more than big breeds like Japanese Akitas and Rottweilers .
Miniature Schnauzer owners must also be prepared to set aside nearly £500 a year for grooming costs alone .
What are the cheapest breeds of dogs ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2020 include Jack Russells , Patterdales , Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Whippets .
These breeds tend to live to 13 and 14-years-old on average , and cost just £7,000 to £8,000 over this time .
These are the top five cheapest and most expensive dogs ... How was the research carried out ?
The costs of each breed were calculated by looking at the average costs of food and treats , vaccinations and boosters , grooming , toys , basic equipment , and even insurance .
Insurance costs tend to depend largely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything between £5 to £18 a month .
On average , new dog owners should expect to pay about £2,030 in the first year – including the new puppy cost – and about £850 per dog each year after .
What have researchers said ?
A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said : “ Britain is a nation of dog lovers , and most of us dream of welcoming a canine companion into our homes at some point in our lives .
“ But before deciding on a specific breed , you should look into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course how much they ’ re going to cost to care for each year , because some breeds are significantly more costly than others .
“ We ’ ve looked at the initial cost of buying a puppy in normal times and also how Covid has impacted puppy prices – but the financial impact of owning a dog doesn ’ t stop there .
“ To provide an accurate figure we ’ ve also looked at the basic costs of food and treats based on the average weight of each breed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grooming costs , toys , basic equipment like leads and collars , and even insurance prices .
“ Pet insurance is basically a safety net to help protect you against unexpected veterinary bills , so is definitely worth having .
It can cost upwards of £200 a year for some of the larger breeds but will save you having to potentially shell out thousands of pounds if your pet were to fall ill. “ Another cost many owners might fail to consider is grooming .
Some breeds require more intensive grooming schedules than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so don ’ t forget to do your research and factor this in when choosing a breed .
“ It ’ s also worth adding that if you ’ ve done the maths and are positive that you can afford to welcome a dog into the family , don ’ t forget to check your local rescue centres as there are hundreds of dogs waiting to find for their forever homes .
“ Adopting is usually a lot cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder as well , so you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving yourself cash that can be used for its care in the long run.
” The full research and cost breakdowns can be found here : https : //www.netvouchercodes.co.uk/blog/cost-of-owning-a-dog .

Experts from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have researched more than 40 of the most popular dog breeds to compile a new list of the pooches which burn the biggest holes in owners’ pockets.
What is the most expensive dog breed?
Standard Poodles take the crown for being the most cash-demanding breed.
After considering the cost of feeding, insuring and grooming Poodles over their average lifespan, as well as day-to-day accessory and equipment costs, this breed can set owners back over £18,700.
Next up, Saint Bernard owners will also require deep pockets as these giant breeds cost around £1,800 every year – and they usually live to around nine – but even 7.5kg Lhasa Apsos are ‘cash demanding’. With their intense grooming schedules, these fluffy pups tend to cost over £14,000 throughout their lifetimes – significantly more than big breeds like Japanese Akitas and Rottweilers.
Miniature Schnauzer owners must also be prepared to set aside nearly £500 a year for grooming costs alone.
What are the cheapest breeds of dogs?
Some of the cheapest breeds to own in 2020 include Jack Russells, Patterdales, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Whippets. These breeds tend to live to 13 and 14-years-old on average, and cost just £7,000 to £8,000 over this time.
These are the top five cheapest and most expensive dogs...
How was the research carried out?
The costs of each breed were calculated by looking at the average costs of food and treats, vaccinations and boosters, grooming, toys, basic equipment, and even insurance.
Insurance costs tend to depend largely on breed sizes, and range from anything between £5 to £18 a month.
On average, new dog owners should expect to pay about £2,030 in the first year – including the new puppy cost – and about £850 per dog each year after.
What have researchers said?
A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and most of us dream of welcoming a canine companion into our homes at some point in our lives.
“But before deciding on a specific breed, you should look into its general behaviour and temperament, and of course how much they’re going to cost to care for each year, because some breeds are significantly more costly than others.
“We’ve looked at the initial cost of buying a puppy in normal times and also how Covid has impacted puppy prices – but the financial impact of owning a dog doesn’t stop there.
“To provide an accurate figure we’ve also looked at the basic costs of food and treats based on the average weight of each breed, as well as vaccinations and boosters, grooming costs, toys, basic equipment like leads and collars, and even insurance prices.
“Pet insurance is basically a safety net to help protect you against unexpected veterinary bills, so is definitely worth having. It can cost upwards of £200 a year for some of the larger breeds but will save you having to potentially shell out thousands of pounds if your pet were to fall ill.
“Another cost many owners might fail to consider is grooming. Some breeds require more intensive grooming schedules than others and all the appointments add up, so don’t forget to do your research and factor this in when choosing a breed.
“It’s also worth adding that if you’ve done the maths and are positive that you can afford to welcome a dog into the family, don’t forget to check your local rescue centres as there are hundreds of dogs waiting to find for their forever homes.
“Adopting is usually a lot cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder as well, so you’ll be rescuing an adorable pup whilst saving yourself cash that can be used for its care in the long run.”
The full research and cost breakdowns can be found here: https://www.netvouchercodes.co.uk/blog/cost-of-owning-a-dog.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Are you missing out on £100s a week - and a free TV licence?

THOUSANDS of local pensioners could be missing out on hundreds of pounds a week – and a free TV licence .
But now a charity has created a simple calculator that could help them claim their money .
Across the West Midlands there are a minimum of 60,000 over 75s not claiming their Pension Credit entitlement .
Pension Credits offer are financial lifelines for pensioners on low incomes , but now they are also the only way that the over 75s can claim their free TV licence .
Nationally only 61 % of people are estimated to claim their entitlement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have worked out how that looks across the regions , and the West Midlands is towards the top of the league table of people missing out .
Anna Stevenson , Welfare Benefit Expert , at Turn2us said : “ Pension Credit is a lifeline for older people stuck on low incomes in retirement , and now it is the only route to getting a free TV license .
So it is more important , now than ever , to claim it .
“ The extra income , and so called ‘ passport-benefits ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a long way to helping many older people keep their head above water and avoid being pulled into poverty .
“ We urge everyone of pension age to use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator and find out if you are entitled to Pension Credit then make that claim .
To use it go to : www.turn2us.org.uk People can also visit the government website : gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234 .
”

But now a charity has created a simple calculator that could help them claim their money.
Across the West Midlands there are a minimum of 60,000 over 75s not claiming their Pension Credit entitlement.
Pension Credits offer are financial lifelines for pensioners on low incomes, but now they are also the only way that the over 75s can claim their free TV licence.
Nationally only 61% of people are estimated to claim their entitlement to Pension Credit.
Poverty charity Turn2us have worked out how that looks across the regions, and the West Midlands is towards the top of the league table of people missing out.
Anna Stevenson, Welfare Benefit Expert, at Turn2us said: “Pension Credit is a lifeline for older people stuck on low incomes in retirement, and now it is the only route to getting a free TV license. So it is more important, now than ever, to claim it.
“The extra income, and so called ‘passport-benefits’ that Pension Credit unlocks, can go a long way to helping many older people keep their head above water and avoid being pulled into poverty.
“We urge everyone of pension age to use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator and find out if you are entitled to Pension Credit then make that claim.
To use it go to: www.turn2us.org.uk
People can also visit the government website: gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Covid alert over invisible killer

Covid alert over invisible killer

West Midlands Fire Service have issued an urgent Covid safety warning as more and more people work from home .
They are urging people to make sure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide ( CO ) alarms – because they save lives .
Fewer than 2 in ten households have a working CO alarm , despite the fact that carbon monoxide is an invisible killer – you can ’ t see it , hear it , smell it or taste it .
It ’ s highly poisonous , and you should have an alarm in any room with an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gas boiler or oven .
Meanwhile , over the last three years , smoke alarms failed to go off in 45 per cent of 5,000 fires in West Midlands homes .
In many cases the fire was beyond the range of the alarm , which highlights the need to fit them on all levels of your home .
Pete Wilson , The Fire Service ’ s Group Manager for Prevention , said : “ Home safety is important year-round , but now even more so with so many people working from home because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach winter and use of open fires , central heating and cooking increases , now is the time to make sure you ’ ve got the right alarms in the right places .
“ Because of lockdown restrictions , we recognise that checking on vulnerable family , friends and neighbours can be difficult .
If someone you know is vulnerable and you think they have n't got working smoke alarms please refer them for a Safe and Well visit , by visiting the WMFS website.
” For the latest up to date advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please see https : //www.wmfs.net/safety/at-home/

They are urging people to make sure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms – because they save lives.
Fewer than 2 in ten households have a working CO alarm, despite the fact that carbon monoxide is an invisible killer – you can’t see it, hear it, smell it or taste it.
It’s highly poisonous, and you should have an alarm in any room with an open fire, wood-burning stove, or gas boiler or oven.
Meanwhile, over the last three years, smoke alarms failed to go off in 45 per cent of 5,000 fires in West Midlands homes.
In many cases the fire was beyond the range of the alarm, which highlights the need to fit them on all levels of your home.
Pete Wilson, The Fire Service’s Group Manager for Prevention, said: “Home safety is important year-round, but now even more so with so many people working from home because of the pandemic.
“As we approach winter and use of open fires, central heating and cooking increases, now is the time to make sure you’ve got the right alarms in the right places.
“Alarms provide precious time to escape.
“Because of lockdown restrictions, we recognise that checking on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours can be difficult. If someone you know is vulnerable and you think they haven't got working smoke alarms please refer them for a Safe and Well visit, by visiting the WMFS website.”
For the latest up to date advice and information about keeping your home safe please see https://www.wmfs.net/safety/at-home/


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Black History Month: What is it and why do we celebrate it every October?

Black History Month has begun in the UK - and will run from October 1 until October 31 , 2020 .
The event , which has been observed since 1987 , aims to celebrate the important people and events in the history of people of African and Caribbean descent .
We 've put together everything you need to know .
It may seem as if there are multiple Black History Months , due to the fact that other areas of the globe - including the US , where events receive international coverage - observe the month in February .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took place in 1970 , though it would be another six years before the month began being celebrated annually .
This first celebration was the spiritual successor to `` Negro History Week '' , which took place in February 1926 .
The brainchild of Carter G. Woodson , founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History , its aim was to encourage coordinated teaching of the history of black Americans in the nation 's public schools .
Only the Departments of Education of the states of North Carolina , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest at first , but despite the less than enthusiastic response from school authorities , Woodson was optimistic .
He felt the success of that first week could allow the general movement to become something annually celebrated .
By 1929 it was gaining ground , with the State Departments of Educations of `` every state with considerable Negro population '' making the event known to their teachers and distributing official literature .
Soon , mayors across the United States were endorsing the week as a holiday , and it prompted the creation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interest .
The UK 's first Black History Month took place in 1987 .
It was rallied for by Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo , who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council and created a collaboration to get it underway .
33 years later , every October marks Black History Month in the UK , and a number of special events and celebrations take place to mark the occasion .
What can I do to celebrate ?
Due to current Coronavirus restrictions , limits are in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ held , with mass gatherings banned .
Black History Month is a great opportunity for people from all backgrounds to educate themselves on black history and the often-overlooked people who have made a difference to the country .
Your local museum may be hosting special exhibitions or events or a nearby cinema may have a themed programme of relevant films and screenings .
Check the websites of your local cultural institutions to check for any special events they may be running to mark the occasion .
There are plenty of events being held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Portrait of a Generation is a photography exhibition being held at Brixton library to celebrate the Caribbean community of South London , while The Sounds of Croydon is an online showcase of Croydon ’ s most successful musicians `` from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor to Stormzy . ''
• Further north , the Woodhorn Museum in Northumberland will be celebrating coal miners of African Caribbean heritage with their exhibition , Digging Deep .
That 's just a very small handful of some of the events taking place .
Out on the streets , Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in London , Glasgow , Cardiff and Belfast - have been painted black with a gold trim as part of Black History Month in October .
Each of the special-edition postboxes has a social media link and features a significant figure in the British black community .
On social media , black women , including recent Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo , are taking over the Instagram accounts of prominent white women ( including Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham ) on October 1 .

The event, which has been observed since 1987, aims to celebrate the important people and events in the history of people of African and Caribbean descent.
We've put together everything you need to know.
How did Black History Month start?
It may seem as if there are multiple Black History Months, due to the fact that other areas of the globe - including the US, where events receive international coverage - observe the month in February.
In the US, Black History Month first took place in 1970, though it would be another six years before the month began being celebrated annually.
This first celebration was the spiritual successor to "Negro History Week", which took place in February 1926.
The brainchild of Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, its aim was to encourage coordinated teaching of the history of black Americans in the nation's public schools.
Only the Departments of Education of the states of North Carolina, Delaware, and West Virginia showed any interest at first, but despite the less than enthusiastic response from school authorities, Woodson was optimistic.
He felt the success of that first week could allow the general movement to become something annually celebrated.
By 1929 it was gaining ground, with the State Departments of Educations of "every state with considerable Negro population" making the event known to their teachers and distributing official literature.
Soon, mayors across the United States were endorsing the week as a holiday, and it prompted the creation of Black history clubs and an increase in interest.
The UK's first Black History Month took place in 1987.
It was rallied for by Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council and created a collaboration to get it underway.
33 years later, every October marks Black History Month in the UK, and a number of special events and celebrations take place to mark the occasion.
What can I do to celebrate?
Due to current Coronavirus restrictions, limits are in place on what sort of events can be held, with mass gatherings banned.
Black History Month is a great opportunity for people from all backgrounds to educate themselves on black history and the often-overlooked people who have made a difference to the country.
Your local museum may be hosting special exhibitions or events or a nearby cinema may have a themed programme of relevant films and screenings.
Check the websites of your local cultural institutions to check for any special events they may be running to mark the occasion.
What national events are happening?
There are plenty of events being held to mark the occasion.
Windrush: Portrait of a Generation is a photography exhibition being held at Brixton library to celebrate the Caribbean community of South London, while The Sounds of Croydon is an online showcase of Croydon’s most successful musicians "from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor to Stormzy."
is a photography exhibition being held at Brixton library to celebrate the Caribbean community of South London, while The Sounds of Croydon is an online showcase of Croydon’s most successful musicians "from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor to Stormzy." Further north, the Woodhorn Museum in Northumberland will be celebrating coal miners of African Caribbean heritage with their exhibition, Digging Deep.
That's just a very small handful of some of the events taking place.
Out on the streets, Royal Mail said that four post boxes - in London, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast - have been painted black with a gold trim as part of Black History Month in October.
Each of the special-edition postboxes has a social media link and features a significant figure in the British black community.
On social media, black women, including recent Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo, are taking over the Instagram accounts of prominent white women (including Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham) on October 1.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Town care home signs up to new Covid campaign

Kidderminster care home Arden House is one of 80 across the country already signed up for a new campaign to tackle pandemic loneliness and isolation – The Wednesday Wave .
A few months ago we were clapping for our care worker heroes – now we are being asked for a Wednesday Wave to counter loneliness among care home residents or those feeling isolated in the pandemic .
The campaign is being launched by the Vamos mask theatre company .
It will run for ten weeks from October 14 and aims to connect the public with people in care homes or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes .
More than 500,000 vulnerable people are unable to leave their homes because of the pandemic , and it ’ s having an effect on many people ’ s mental health .
The Vamos company say : “ Those still isolating must not be forgotten.
” For ten weeks , from October 14 until December 16 the Arts Council England-funded theatre company is encouraging the public to connect with residents in local care homes or isolated neighbours , by waving to them through windows from 3pm on Wednesdays .
The company are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes .
How does it work ?
• If you are a Care Home resident or live alone and feel isolated , or in need of contact , put The Wednesday Wave poster in your window , letting your community know that you ’ re inviting a wave .
You can download a poster to print at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/TWWposter • If you ’ d like to wave , whether on your way home from school , on a break from work or on a daily walk , identify somewhere with a poster displayed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the waving begin !
Where did the idea come from ?
• Vamos Theatre ’ s Culture in Quarantine commission for the BBC , a series of short films made in isolation during lockdown .
How Hard is Waving ?
tells the story of a family trying to keep connected in lockdown and was itself inspired by the true story of Artistic Director Rachael Savage ’ s personal ‘ wave ’ with a local care home resident .

A few months ago we were clapping for our care worker heroes – now we are being asked for a Wednesday Wave to counter loneliness among care home residents or those feeling isolated in the pandemic.
The campaign is being launched by the Vamos mask theatre company.
It will run for ten weeks from October 14 and aims to connect the public with people in care homes or who may be isolating in their own homes.
More than 500,000 vulnerable people are unable to leave their homes because of the pandemic, and it’s having an effect on many people’s mental health.
The Vamos company say: “Those still isolating must not be forgotten.”
For ten weeks, from October 14 until December 16 the Arts Council England-funded theatre company is encouraging the public to connect with residents in local care homes or isolated neighbours, by waving to them through windows from 3pm on Wednesdays. The company are also connecting primary schools with local care homes.
How does it work?
• If you are a Care Home resident or live alone and feel isolated, or in need of contact, put The Wednesday Wave poster in your window, letting your community know that you’re inviting a wave. You can download a poster to print at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/TWWposter
• If you’d like to wave, whether on your way home from school, on a break from work or on a daily walk, identify somewhere with a poster displayed.
• From 3pm on Wednesdays, let the waving begin!
Where did the idea come from?
• Vamos Theatre’s Culture in Quarantine commission for the BBC, a series of short films made in isolation during lockdown. How Hard is Waving? tells the story of a family trying to keep connected in lockdown and was itself inspired by the true story of Artistic Director Rachael Savage’s personal ‘wave’ with a local care home resident.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--A Strictly a star-studded night at our awards

Yet more star names have been added to the list of celebrities lined up for our latest awards event .
New additions for the awards run by our sister title , Three Counties Farmer , are gold medal swimmer Rebecca Adlington , Strictly ’ s head judge Shirley Ballas , and Welsh weather presenter Sian Lloyd .
The awards , which recognise outstanding work in the farming community across Worcestershire , Herefordshire and Gloucestershire , take the form of a live online broadcast on November 26 and will be hosted by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson .
The awards have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year and a series of stars who will be dropping in to the ceremony with special messages .
Rebecca Addlingtonwon two gold medals at the 2008 Summer Olympics in the 400-metre freestyle and 800-metre freestyle , breaking the 19-year-old world record of Janet Evans in the 800-metre final .
She went on to win World Championship gold in 2011 , and two bronze medals in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London .
Since retiring as a competitor in 2013 she has worked for BBC TV as a swimming pundit at the Olympic Games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ various other media appearances .
Shirley Ballas was appointed head judge on the BBC TV show , Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 following the departure of Len Goodman She is a champion ballroom dancer , dance teacher , and dance adjudicator who specialises in the International Latin division , earning her the nickname The Queen of Latin .
Ap [ art from Strictly , she has also appeared in Dancing with the Stars .
Siân Lloyd , the Welsh television presenter and meteorologist , is the UK 's longest-serving female weather forecaster , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years , from 1990 until 2014 .
She started her career as a researcher for the BBC Wales Today nightly news programme , became an announcer for Welsh Language TV channel S4C , and then successfully screen tested for the ITV Weather in 1990 .
She was twice voted best TV weather presenter in 2005 and 2007 .
Proud of her Welsh roots , she set up SWS ( which means `` kiss '' in Welsh , and standing for `` Social , Welsh and Sexy '' ) , [ 8 ] a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ITV 's reality television show I 'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here !
, but was the shock first celebrity to be eliminated by the public vote .
For more information on the Awards go to the website of our suster paper , the Hereford Times : https : //www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/

New additions for the awards run by our sister title, Three Counties Farmer, are gold medal swimmer Rebecca Adlington, Strictly’s head judge Shirley Ballas, and Welsh weather presenter Sian Lloyd.
The awards, which recognise outstanding work in the farming community across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, take the form of a live online broadcast on November 26 and will be hosted by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson.
The awards have attracted a record number of entries this year and a series of stars who will be dropping in to the ceremony with special messages.
Rebecca Addlingtonwon two gold medals at the 2008 Summer Olympics in the 400-metre freestyle and 800-metre freestyle, breaking the 19-year-old world record of Janet Evans in the 800-metre final.
She went on to win World Championship gold in 2011, and two bronze medals in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
Since retiring as a competitor in 2013 she has worked for BBC TV as a swimming pundit at the Olympic Games and World Aquatics Championships, and made various other media appearances.
Shirley Ballas was appointed head judge on the BBC TV show, Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 following the departure of Len Goodman
She is a champion ballroom dancer, dance teacher, and dance adjudicator who specialises in the International Latin division, earning her the nickname The Queen of Latin.
Ap[art from Strictly, she has also appeared in Dancing with the Stars.
Siân Lloyd, the Welsh television presenter and meteorologist, is the UK's longest-serving female weather forecaster, having appeared on ITV Weather for 24 years, from 1990 until 2014.
She started her career as a researcher for the BBC Wales Today nightly news programme, became an announcer for Welsh Language TV channel S4C, and then successfully screen tested for the ITV Weather in 1990.
She was twice voted best TV weather presenter in 2005 and 2007.
Proud of her Welsh roots, she set up SWS (which means "kiss" in Welsh, and standing for "Social, Welsh and Sexy"),[8] a Welsh networking club.
She appeared on ITV's reality television show I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, but was the shock first celebrity to be eliminated by the public vote.
For more information on the Awards go to the website of our suster paper, the Hereford Times: https://www.herefordtimes.com/awards/tcf/


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-04--Make waves to help beat Covid

Make waves to help beat Covid

Help wave away the loneliness of your isolated neighbours – every Wednesday .
A FEW months ago we were clapping for our care worker heroes on a Thursday .
Now we are being asked for a Wednesday Wave to counter loneliness among care home residents or those feeling isolated in the pandemic .
Care homes across the West Midlands are taking part in The Wednesday Wave campaign launched by the Vamos mask theatre company .
It will run for ten weeks from October 14 and aims to connect the public with people in care homes or those who may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 500,000 vulnerable people are unable to leave their homes because of the pandemic , and it ’ s having an effect on many people ’ s mental health .
The Vamos company say : “ Those still isolating must not be forgotten.
” For ten weeks , from October 14 until December 16 , the Arts Council England-funded theatre company is encouraging the public to connect with residents in local care homes or isolated neighbours , by waving to them through windows from 3pm on Wednesdays .
The company are also connecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How does it work ?
• If you are a Care Home resident or live alone and feel isolated , or in need of contact , put The Wednesday Wave poster in your window , letting your community know that you ’ re inviting a wave .
You can download a poster to print at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/TWWposter • If you ’ d like to wave , whether on your way home from school , on a break from work or on a daily walk , identify somewhere with a poster displayed .
• From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin !
Where did the idea come from ?
• Vamos Theatre ’ s Culture in Quarantine commission for the BBC , a series of short films made in isolation during lockdown .
How Hard is Waving ?
tells the story of a family trying to keep connected in lockdown and was itself inspired by the true story of Artistic Director Rachael Savage ’ s personal ‘ wave ’ with a local care home resident .

A FEW months ago we were clapping for our care worker heroes on a Thursday.
Now we are being asked for a Wednesday Wave to counter loneliness among care home residents or those feeling isolated in the pandemic.
Care homes across the West Midlands are taking part in The Wednesday Wave campaign launched by the Vamos mask theatre company.
It will run for ten weeks from October 14 and aims to connect the public with people in care homes or those who may be isolating in their own homes.
More than 500,000 vulnerable people are unable to leave their homes because of the pandemic, and it’s having an effect on many people’s mental health.
The Vamos company say: “Those still isolating must not be forgotten.”
For ten weeks, from October 14 until December 16, the Arts Council England-funded theatre company is encouraging the public to connect with residents in local care homes or isolated neighbours, by waving to them through windows from 3pm on Wednesdays. The company are also connecting primary schools with local care homes.
How does it work?
• If you are a Care Home resident or live alone and feel isolated, or in need of contact, put The Wednesday Wave poster in your window, letting your community know that you’re inviting a wave. You can download a poster to print at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/TWWposter
• If you’d like to wave, whether on your way home from school, on a break from work or on a daily walk, identify somewhere with a poster displayed.
• From 3pm on Wednesdays, let the waving begin!
Where did the idea come from?
• Vamos Theatre’s Culture in Quarantine commission for the BBC, a series of short films made in isolation during lockdown. How Hard is Waving? tells the story of a family trying to keep connected in lockdown and was itself inspired by the true story of Artistic Director Rachael Savage’s personal ‘wave’ with a local care home resident.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Another warning over rising coronavirus cases in Kidderminster

CORONAVIRUS cases are still on the rise in Kidderminster , Worcestershire County Council has warned .
The county council issued another warning to town residents on Sunday , after around 50 positive Covid-19 cases were confirmed across Wyre Forest , 11 of which were in the Comberton area .
The Shuttle reported last week that Wyre Forest had the highest Covid infection rate in the county at 49 per 100,000 people , compared to the Worcestershire average of 39 .
New cases were said to be rising predominantly among those under 50 and in households .
Kidderminster in particular is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among younger people .
The latest figures from Public Health England however , which cover the week from September 24 to September 30 , showed a lower number of confirmed cases .
Comberton had eight and Kidderminster town had three .
Other areas in Kidderminster had less than two confirmed cases , while Wolverley , Cookley and Blakedown had three , Bewdley East and Upper Arley had four , Stourport Lickhill and Burlish had three , and Mitton and Wilden had four .
Worcestershire County Council posted on Twitter yesterday : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kidderminster .
`` We all have a responsibility to do our bit , and protect our vulnerable , our elderly and our loved ones '' We can do this together - stop Covid-19 in its tracks .
# BreakTheChainOfInfection ''

The county council issued another warning to town residents on Sunday, after around 50 positive Covid-19 cases were confirmed across Wyre Forest, 11 of which were in the Comberton area.
The Shuttle reported last week that Wyre Forest had the highest Covid infection rate in the county at 49 per 100,000 people, compared to the Worcestershire average of 39.
New cases were said to be rising predominantly among those under 50 and in households. Kidderminster in particular is seeing a rise in numbers, especially among younger people.
The latest figures from Public Health England however, which cover the week from September 24 to September 30, showed a lower number of confirmed cases.
Comberton had eight and Kidderminster town had three. Other areas in Kidderminster had less than two confirmed cases, while Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown had three, Bewdley East and Upper Arley had four, Stourport Lickhill and Burlish had three, and Mitton and Wilden had four.
Worcestershire County Council posted on Twitter yesterday: "The number of infections is going up in Kidderminster.
"We all have a responsibility to do our bit, and protect our vulnerable, our elderly and our loved ones
"We can do this together - stop Covid-19 in its tracks. #BreakTheChainOfInfection"


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Latest figures show where coronvairus cases have increased in Worcestershire

SEVERAL areas across the county have seen three or more new coronavirus cases recorded in the last week .
The @ @ @ @ @ Health England shows which areas in Worcestershire have recorded three new cases or more between @ @ @ @ @ – the latest data available .
The figures are split into several ‘ middle super @ @ @ @ @ is used by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) – zones that are @ @ @ @ @ with an average population of around 7,200 people .
Areas with fewer than two cases @ @ @ @ @ Health England in its figures .
A total of 3,468 confirmed cases have been recorded @ @ @ @ @ October 4 ) according to Public Health England figures .
Of those cases , 586 @ @ @ @ @ , 345 in Malvern Hills , 638 in Wychavon , 766 in Bromsgrove , 587 @ @ @ @ @ in Redditch .
Here are the areas where three or more positive cases have been @ @ @ @ @

The latest data published by Public Health England shows which areas in Worcestershire have recorded three new cases or more between September 24 and September 30 – the latest data available.
The figures are split into several ‘middle super output areas’ – which is used by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – zones that are slightly larger than postcode areas with an average population of around 7,200 people.
Areas with fewer than two cases are not highlighted by Public Health England in its figures.
A total of 3,468 confirmed cases have been recorded in Worcestershire (as of October 4) according to Public Health England figures.
Of those cases, 586 have been recorded in Worcester, 345 in Malvern Hills, 638 in Wychavon, 766 in Bromsgrove, 587 in Wyre Forest and 546 in Redditch.
Here are the areas where three or more positive cases have been recorded by local authority:
WORCESTER
Northwick – 3
Warndon West – 3
Warndon East – 4
King George's Field – 3
Henwick – 4
Worcester Town North – 4
Dines Green and St John’s – 3
Ronkswood and Nunnery Wood – 4
Worcester Town South – 4
Battenhall and Diglis – 3
WYCHAVON
Droitwich Spa East – 4
Droitwich Spa South – 3
Fernhill Heath and Ombersley – 4
Drakes Broughton and Norton – 5
Pershore – 7
Evesham North and Hampton – 3
Evesham East – 5
MALVERN
Abberley, Holt Heath and Hallow – 4
Kempsey and Ryall – 3
Barnard’s Green – 5
WYRE FOREST
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown – 3
Kidderminster Town – 3
Bewdley East and Upper Arley – 4
Comberton – 8
Stourport Lickhill and Burlish – 3
Stourport Mitton and Wilden – 4
REDDITCH
Riverside and Church Hill North – 3
Redditch Town and Abbeydale – 4
Webheath – 6
Greenlands – 3
Hunt End and Feckenham – 3
BROMSGROVE
Hagley – 5
Dodford, Belbroughton and Romsley – 5
Wythall and Gay Hill – 3
Barnt Green and Lickey Hills – 5
Marlbrook and Lickey End – 5
Alvechurch, Hopwood & Holt End – 4
Bromsgrove Sidemoor – 3
Bromsgrove Charford – 3
Stoke Heath, Finstall and Bentley – 5


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Top shots from the Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club

Here is a selection of our favourites from the Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club .
Visit teh Facebook group for @


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Samurai Judo Club grading promotions

Samurai Judo Club grading promotions

Over 60 members of Kidderminster ’ s Samurai Judo Club have received grading promotions , with the technical assessments having been done before the lockdown started .
Promotions to and within the black belts can only be done at special gradings , which are currently on hold because of the pandemic , but the senior players up to brown belt and the junior players can be graded within the club .
Top of the senior results list were Cerys Jones , aged 15 , and Megan Skillern , who were both promoted to senior brown belt .
Cerys is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National medalist in contest judo , whilst Megan took a silver just before the lockdown at the British Schools Championships .
Maddi Haywood and Maddie Averill were amongst six players moving to senior blue belt , as were British medalists James Harrison and Callum Spencer , along with parent player Emma Martin and veteran Trevor Connolly .
There were four senior green belts too , for Katy Jennings , Chris Houghton , Simon Cunningham and Sam Smith .
Senior orange belts went to Alex Collins and Toni Waugh , whilst senior yellow belts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sarah Hartwell and Mark Dewhirst .
Finally , Chris Westwood , another parent player , Alfie Thomos and Finlay Fitton all gained their first senior grades , senior red belt .
Top of the junior grades was Harry Ashen , who was promoted to top blue belt , just one grade below brown .
The Ashen family contains three British Champions , as Harry has previously won the British Minors Championships whilst older brother Jake was British Schools Champion in 2018 and father Nick was British Veterans Champion a few years before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top green belt , whilst Mateo Allen attained his green belt .
Isaac Sobolewski and Scott Hulbert both moved to middle orange belt , whilst Edward Martin became an orange belt .
Top yellow belts were awarded to Alex Spencer , Anna Baddeley , Max Baker and Maya Osborne .
Middle yellow belts went to Zac Westwood and Lathan Spackman whilst five players were promoted to yellow belt .
They were Nick Deeley , Hannah Palmer , Elliot Harris , Jasmine Southern and Megan Burford .
Top red belts were awarded to Emilia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Finn Doherty , Ethan Lorriman , Luke Vessey and Alyssa Westwood .
A middle red belt went to Imogen Dutton .
Fourteen players were awarded their first red belt grade , they were Lola Dyoss Jones , Jacob Morgan , Leah Hayes , Poppy Hayes , Sebastian Roberts , Beatrice Roberts , Jenson Cutler , Nicholas Beddoe , Eva Wharton , Verity Brown , Isla Thompson , Oliver Thompson , Hayden Ford and Joe Light .
Finally , four players under 8 years of age , Isobel Houghton , Oliver Royle , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their first grade in the under 8 Sho grading system .
The Samurai club is able to continue training under covid-secure rules worked out between the Combat Sports Group of National Governing Bodies including the British Judo Association , and the government .
Whilst indoor team sports are not able to train at present , indoor individual sports are allowed as long as all precautions are taken .
As well as taking all such precautions , the Samurai are helped by their purpose-built premises , which have superb ventilation and an extremely large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new members at present , but only where they are pairs or trios from the same household .
However , this can include parents and their children .
For details , telephone 0776 1122977 or visit the Samurai website on www.samurai.org.uk or their Facebook page .

Over 60 members of Kidderminster’s Samurai Judo Club have received grading promotions, with the technical assessments having been done before the lockdown started.
Promotions to and within the black belts can only be done at special gradings, which are currently on hold because of the pandemic, but the senior players up to brown belt and the junior players can be graded within the club.
Top of the senior results list were Cerys Jones, aged 15, and Megan Skillern, who were both promoted to senior brown belt.
Cerys is the current British Kata Champion and double British National medalist in contest judo, whilst Megan took a silver just before the lockdown at the British Schools Championships.
Maddi Haywood and Maddie Averill were amongst six players moving to senior blue belt, as were British medalists James Harrison and Callum Spencer, along with parent player Emma Martin and veteran Trevor Connolly.
There were four senior green belts too, for Katy Jennings, Chris Houghton, Simon Cunningham and Sam Smith.
Senior orange belts went to Alex Collins and Toni Waugh, whilst senior yellow belts went to Sonia Cunningham, Gail Alloway, Sarah Hartwell and Mark Dewhirst. Finally, Chris Westwood, another parent player, Alfie Thomos and Finlay Fitton all gained their first senior grades, senior red belt.
Top of the junior grades was Harry Ashen, who was promoted to top blue belt, just one grade below brown.
The Ashen family contains three British Champions, as Harry has previously won the British Minors Championships whilst older brother Jake was British Schools Champion in 2018 and father Nick was British Veterans Champion a few years before that.
Sophie Davis was promoted to top green belt, whilst Mateo Allen attained his green belt.
Isaac Sobolewski and Scott Hulbert both moved to middle orange belt, whilst Edward Martin became an orange belt.
Top yellow belts were awarded to Alex Spencer, Anna Baddeley, Max Baker and Maya Osborne.
Middle yellow belts went to Zac Westwood and Lathan Spackman whilst five players were promoted to yellow belt.
They were Nick Deeley, Hannah Palmer, Elliot Harris, Jasmine Southern and Megan Burford. Top red belts were awarded to Emilia Lane, Archie Minkin, Hannah Houghton, Finn Doherty, Ethan Lorriman, Luke Vessey and Alyssa Westwood. A middle red belt went to Imogen Dutton.
Fourteen players were awarded their first red belt grade, they were Lola Dyoss Jones, Jacob Morgan, Leah Hayes, Poppy Hayes, Sebastian Roberts, Beatrice Roberts, Jenson Cutler, Nicholas Beddoe, Eva Wharton, Verity Brown, Isla Thompson, Oliver Thompson, Hayden Ford and Joe Light.
Finally, four players under 8 years of age, Isobel Houghton, Oliver Royle, Henry Thompson and Isaac Thompson were awarded their first grade in the under 8 Sho grading system.
The Samurai club is able to continue training under covid-secure rules worked out between the Combat Sports Group of National Governing Bodies including the British Judo Association, and the government.
Whilst indoor team sports are not able to train at present, indoor individual sports are allowed as long as all precautions are taken.
As well as taking all such precautions, the Samurai are helped by their purpose-built premises, which have superb ventilation and an extremely large mat area. The club can take new members at present, but only where they are pairs or trios from the same household.
However, this can include parents and their children. For details, telephone 0776 1122977 or visit the Samurai website on www.samurai.org.uk or their Facebook page.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Drivers warned they could face a £5,000 fine for purposely splashing pedestrians

Drivers who deliberately splash pedestrians during the wet weather could be fined up to £5,000 .
Drivers will need to be on high alert when they are out on the road , in order to ensure they are driving as responsibly as possible in the wet conditions .
They also need to act in a considerate manner towards pedestrians , who may find themselves drenched as they stand or walk by the side of the road .
What does the law say ?
According to the Road Traffic Act 1988 , a person may be charged with the offence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they drive “ a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without due care and attention , or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place ” .
What have insurers said ?
An example of inconsiderate behaviour includes splashing pedestrians on purpose - breakdown cover and car insurance company RAC explained .
Pete Williams , a road safety spokesman for the RAC said : “ Anyone unfortunate enough to have suffered a drenching by an inconsiderate motorist splashing them when driving through a puddle would probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driver . ''
Williams added that the majority of drivers who commit the offence will likely receive a £100 fine and three penalty points .
“ If , however , they refuse [ the notice ] then they will face a magistrate who could impose a fine up to £5,000 , although the maximum is very unlikely , ” he said .
Citizens Advice explained that splashing a pedestrian is not an offence `` unless it can be proved that the motorist acted carelessly or deliberately . ''
`` If it can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be charged with driving without due care and consideration for other road users . ''
Car insurance company ingenie have also emphasised the importance of avoiding getting pedestrians wet on the road .
The insurer said : “ It comes under driving without reasonable consideration for others and can get you three points , plus a £100 – £5,000 fine if it goes to court .
Remember – pedestrians have feelings too .
”

Drivers will need to be on high alert when they are out on the road, in order to ensure they are driving as responsibly as possible in the wet conditions.
They also need to act in a considerate manner towards pedestrians, who may find themselves drenched as they stand or walk by the side of the road.
What does the law say?
According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, a person may be charged with the offence of “careless and inconsiderate driving” if they drive “a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place”.
What have insurers said?
An example of inconsiderate behaviour includes splashing pedestrians on purpose - breakdown cover and car insurance company RAC explained.
Pete Williams, a road safety spokesman for the RAC said: “Anyone unfortunate enough to have suffered a drenching by an inconsiderate motorist splashing them when driving through a puddle would probably welcome a sizeable financial penalty for the driver."
Williams added that the majority of drivers who commit the offence will likely receive a £100 fine and three penalty points.
“If, however, they refuse [the notice] then they will face a magistrate who could impose a fine up to £5,000, although the maximum is very unlikely,” he said.
Citizens Advice explained that splashing a pedestrian is not an offence "unless it can be proved that the motorist acted carelessly or deliberately."
"If it can be proved that the motorist acted deliberately they can be charged with driving without due care and consideration for other road users."
Car insurance company ingenie have also emphasised the importance of avoiding getting pedestrians wet on the road.
The insurer said: “It comes under driving without reasonable consideration for others and can get you three points, plus a £100 – £5,000 fine if it goes to court. Remember – pedestrians have feelings too.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Stourport Hockey Club weekend round-up

Stourport Hockey Club weekend round-up

Despite battling hard in a tough match due to the weather for seventy minutes the ladies 4th XI , went down 3-2 against their hosts Bromsgrove in their Midland Division 2 match last weekend .
Stourport dominated possession in the first half their early passing and moving into space , in the first twenty minutes , left Bromsgrove trying to match their visitors pace and tenacity .
This confident play by Stourport resulted in a clean goal by Nicola Beasley which raised their spirits and spurred Stourport on .
But , Bromsgrove came back after half time with a renewed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beasley and some good defending especially from Stourport 's player of the match Heather Harris , who made some good decisions in defence and listened to her teammates , however two second half goals by Victoria Burton and two from Anna Perrott sealed the points for the home side .
Stourport did begin to transfer the ball around more confidently towards the end of the second half .
The Men ’ s 2 ’ s beat their visitors , Edgbaston 2nd 's , 7-0 in their West Midlands Premiership match last weekend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ half time after some good composure from Leo to beat the last defender and pass for Elliott to tap in his and Stourport 's first , at the back post .
Stourport added a second before the break and there great counter attacking hockey , produced five more before the final whistle , with five of those goals coming from penalty corners , and the final one coming in the dying moments from ex Olton 1st team GK Alex Cook by tipping in the penalty corner .
The other Stourport goalscorers were Ben @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elliott x2 and a goal for ex-Olton GK Alex Cook on his club re-debut .
The Men 's 3rd XI lost to their hosts , West Bromwich 1st , in last weekend 's T3 South West Premier league match .
The first half of this match was a scrappy affair as both of these sides got back into playing in what was their first league match of the season .
Dan Baldwin produced some good saves in the Stourport goal , allowing helping the visitors to keep the scores level at 0-0 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more relaxed end to end affair , with Stourport unable to convert several good chances from breakaways and penalty corners .
However , it was the home side that opened the scoring with a well taken deflection goal and was quickly followed up with a second fiercely driven reverse stick shot .
West Brom then secured the win with a third goal before the 3rd 's captain David Knott scored a consolation goal , in the sixty fifth minute .
Despite the result this match proved to be promising starts for a 3rd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw the junior players continue to develop and mature at this very competitive level .
Stourport 's player of the match was Pete Moulam for his consist defending and marshalling of the Stourport defence against a quick forward line .
The men 's 5th 's made up for the previous weekends defeat by beating their hosts , West Brom , in the South West 3 league , 7-0 last weekend .
Stourport began well with some good close passing which split the West Brom defence , allowing David Henderson to open his account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stourport 's second arrived through a swift break , and defence splitting pass by Luke Edwards which was deflected through the keeper 's legs into the goal .
The visitors continued to score freely as Henderson added a third and his second before the half time break .
Stourport came out strongly in the second half with Henderson scoring another brace from two short corners , the visitors were n't finished with their hosts though , adding a further two goals through Rob Claris and Robin Conway to complete the 7-0 victory .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ben for a super individual performance .
It was a case of another Saturday and another three points for Stourport ladies 2nd XI as they continued their Premier league season with a 6-3 victory over their hosts , Rugby & West Warwickshire 1st 's last weekend .
After getting ready in their cars the ladies started the game in the pouring rain , and then found themselves a goal down , from a short corner , within the first ten minutes of the first hit back .
This was a wakeup call for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't going to be an easy match .
After shouted instructions from the back Stourport organised their structure enforcing a press that prevented the home sides hits down the middle .
With some great picks by Leanne dribbling from Mimi , Harriet on wings and distribution by Alice Stourport 's aggressive attacking play finally paid off , with a great goal from Gabby .
Despite Rugby pressing high and strong Stourport 's backline still managed to deliver some fabulous balls forward .
Stourport added a second through Liv , before a lapse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level the scores at 2-2 after a swift ball down the middle evaded the Stourport defence .
Stourport still managed to take a goal into the break when Harriet added a third before the break .
As the second half began so the driving rain returned , Stourport not deterred by this and not happy to sit back on their lead , pushed forward , looking for more goals .
The visitors achieved this with more goals , two of which came from Gabby , her hat trick goal being the pick of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort from the top of the 'D , ' which sailed over the head of the keeper .
Stourport added number six with shot from Captain Amy Miller .
The home side did pull another goal back to make the final score 6-3 but this victory is confidence boosting win for the ladies from Wyre Forest , who lost to the same side last season , and would 've brought some cheer to those hardy souls that braved the rain on the sidelines .
Next week the ladies will be entertaining Northampton at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time lucky for Stourport ladies 5th XI as they recorded their first win , of the new season , when three first half goals sealed a 3-0 victory over their visitors to 'The Kingsway ' Harborne 5th 's in last weekend 's friendly .
Stourport were the stronger side throughout the opening minutes of the match as their excellent passing hockey , saw them sweeping through the Harborne team who were unable to get a grip on the match .
As the home defence looked on as virtual bystanders , their forward line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the breakthrough arriving , via a shot from youngster Lottie , the lead was then extended to 3-0 when another youngster Mya scored a brace before the half time whistle .
Stourport had taken their foot off the pedal somewhat in the latter period of the first half , encouraging Harborne to push forward quickly on the break .
This was something that the visitors built upon in the second half as the once redundant home defence were called more and more into action .
Stourport were still looking dangerous when they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ add further to the score , still Stourport 's performance will give them to go forward with confidence in the coming matches .

Despite battling hard in a tough match due to the weather for seventy minutes the ladies 4th XI, went down 3-2 against their hosts Bromsgrove in their Midland Division 2 match last weekend.
Stourport dominated possession in the first half their early passing and moving into space, in the first twenty minutes, left Bromsgrove trying to match their visitors pace and tenacity.
This confident play by Stourport resulted in a clean goal by Nicola Beasley which raised their spirits and spurred Stourport on.
But, Bromsgrove came back after half time with a renewed vigour and despite a second goal for Beasley and some good defending especially from Stourport's player of the match Heather Harris, who made some good decisions in defence and listened to her teammates, however two second half goals by Victoria Burton and two from Anna Perrott sealed the points for the home side.
Stourport did begin to transfer the ball around more confidently towards the end of the second half.
The Men’s 2’s beat their visitors, Edgbaston 2nd's, 7-0 in their West Midlands Premiership match last weekend.
The home side were 2-0 up at half time after some good composure from Leo to beat the last defender and pass for Elliott to tap in his and Stourport's first, at the back post.
Stourport added a second before the break and there great counter attacking hockey, produced five more before the final whistle, with five of those goals coming from penalty corners, and the final one coming in the dying moments from ex Olton 1st team GK Alex Cook by tipping in the penalty corner. The other Stourport goalscorers were Ben Harris x2, Phil Baldwin x2, Elliott x2 and a goal for ex-Olton GK Alex Cook on his club re-debut.
The Men's 3rd XI lost to their hosts, West Bromwich 1st, in last weekend's T3 South West Premier league match. The first half of this match was a scrappy affair as both of these sides got back into playing in what was their first league match of the season. Dan Baldwin produced some good saves in the Stourport goal, allowing helping the visitors to keep the scores level at 0-0 at the break.
The second half was more relaxed end to end affair, with Stourport unable to convert several good chances from breakaways and penalty corners. However, it was the home side that opened the scoring with a well taken deflection goal and was quickly followed up with a second fiercely driven reverse stick shot.
West Brom then secured the win with a third goal before the 3rd's captain David Knott scored a consolation goal, in the sixty fifth minute. Despite the result this match proved to be promising starts for a 3rd team playing against 1st team opposition and saw the junior players continue to develop and mature at this very competitive level.
Stourport's player of the match was Pete Moulam for his consist defending and marshalling of the Stourport defence against a quick forward line.
The men's 5th's made up for the previous weekends defeat by beating their hosts, West Brom, in the South West 3 league, 7-0 last weekend. Stourport began well with some good close passing which split the West Brom defence, allowing David Henderson to open his account for Stourport after only four minutes.
Stourport's second arrived through a swift break, and defence splitting pass by Luke Edwards which was deflected through the keeper's legs into the goal. The visitors continued to score freely as Henderson added a third and his second before the half time break.
Stourport came out strongly in the second half with Henderson scoring another brace from two short corners, the visitors weren't finished with their hosts though, adding a further two goals through Rob Claris and Robin Conway to complete the 7-0 victory. Stourport's player of the match was Ben for a super individual performance .
It was a case of another Saturday and another three points for Stourport ladies 2nd XI as they continued their Premier league season with a 6-3 victory over their hosts, Rugby & West Warwickshire 1st's last weekend.
After getting ready in their cars the ladies started the game in the pouring rain, and then found themselves a goal down, from a short corner, within the first ten minutes of the first hit back.
This was a wakeup call for the 2nd's that realised that it wasn't going to be an easy match. After shouted instructions from the back Stourport organised their structure enforcing a press that prevented the home sides hits down the middle. With some great picks by Leanne dribbling from Mimi, Harriet on wings and distribution by Alice Stourport's aggressive attacking play finally paid off, with a great goal from Gabby.
Despite Rugby pressing high and strong Stourport's backline still managed to deliver some fabulous balls forward.
Stourport added a second through Liv, before a lapse of concentration allowed the home side to level the scores at 2-2 after a swift ball down the middle evaded the Stourport defence. Stourport still managed to take a goal into the break when Harriet added a third before the break.
As the second half began so the driving rain returned, Stourport not deterred by this and not happy to sit back on their lead, pushed forward, looking for more goals.
The visitors achieved this with more goals, two of which came from Gabby, her hat trick goal being the pick of the lot. A superb reverse hit effort from the top of the 'D,' which sailed over the head of the keeper. Stourport added number six with shot from Captain Amy Miller.
The home side did pull another goal back to make the final score 6-3 but this victory is confidence boosting win for the ladies from Wyre Forest, who lost to the same side last season, and would've brought some cheer to those hardy souls that braved the rain on the sidelines.
Next week the ladies will be entertaining Northampton at 'The Kingsway,'
It was third time lucky for Stourport ladies 5th XI as they recorded their first win, of the new season, when three first half goals sealed a 3-0 victory over their visitors to 'The Kingsway' Harborne 5th's in last weekend's friendly.
Stourport were the stronger side throughout the opening minutes of the match as their excellent passing hockey, saw them sweeping through the Harborne team who were unable to get a grip on the match.
As the home defence looked on as virtual bystanders, their forward line continued to pile on the pressure, with the breakthrough arriving, via a shot from youngster Lottie, the lead was then extended to 3-0 when another youngster Mya scored a brace before the half time whistle.
Stourport had taken their foot off the pedal somewhat in the latter period of the first half, encouraging Harborne to push forward quickly on the break.
This was something that the visitors built upon in the second half as the once redundant home defence were called more and more into action. Stourport were still looking dangerous when they pushed forward, but were unable to add further to the score, still Stourport's performance will give them to go forward with confidence in the coming matches.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--'Our journalists have played a crucial role in pandemic'

News Media Association chairman Henry Faure Walker explains how trusted local news played a key part in the response to the pandemic This year has been one of the most disruptive and uncertain in living memory .
The coronavirus has swept the globe leaving a trail of misery and hardship in its wake .
Governments have been grappling with a relentless succession of difficult and complex decisions in order to secure the best – or least worst - outcome for their citizens .
In the news media industry , part of our job has been to help our readers make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have reported on every twist and turn of the local and national lockdowns and kept you up to date with vital public health information .
We have held power to account and robustly challenged the decision-makers on your behalf .
Sometimes , our role has been to seek clarity amid confusion from the authorities , and toxic misinformation about coronavirus spread by bad actors on social media .
It ’ s a role we take very seriously , and our journalists are better equipped than anyone else to do the job .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a difference , as audiences for trusted news and information have soared during the crisis .
Independent research shows that the public place great value on news and information from sources they can trust during the pandemic .
Providing the public with trusted and accurate information is at the heart of what we do .
But our role goes much further than that .
At the start of the pandemic , the industry came together to tell readers we are # therewithyou , with nearly every daily regional title in the country running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
And we haven ’ t looked back since .
We have run campaigns to raise funds for frontline workers and awareness of the challenging work they do each day to keep us all safe .
We have given our backing to small businesses , the engine of our economy , with free advertising to help them through these challenging times .
We have launched initiatives to help people keep in touch with their families during the national and local lockdowns .
We have run campaigns demanding PPE for all frontline NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country when supplies were short .
And we have run fundraising appeals for the millions of people who have experienced real hardship as a result of the pandemic .
The local and national news media have been a fundamental part of the country ’ s response to coronavirus and will continue to be so .
But journalism itself has not been immune to the challenges of the pandemic .
Advertising revenues , the lifeblood of independent journalism , have been hammered by the economic downturn leaving us with less money to invest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read .
At the local level , many news brands are in a perilous position .
We now urgently need Government to intervene with a series of targeted initiatives to help sustain local independent journalism in this country .
And the relationship between the news media and the tech giants needs to be properly reset .
For too long , Google and Facebook have had a free pass at using our journalism on their platforms , making huge profits , whilst contributing comparatively nothing back into the industry .
This problem must be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a bright future .
This week ( 5-11 October ) , is the News Media Association ’ s Journalism Matters campaign when we celebrate the importance of journalism in our society .
Read the Queen 's message to journalists here I hope that you will join me by reflecting on all the great things that journalism does for our society and will continue to do for many years to come .

This year has been one of the most disruptive and uncertain in living memory.
The coronavirus has swept the globe leaving a trail of misery and hardship in its wake.
Governments have been grappling with a relentless succession of difficult and complex decisions in order to secure the best – or least worst - outcome for their citizens.
In the news media industry, part of our job has been to help our readers make sense of these unprecedented events.
We have reported on every twist and turn of the local and national lockdowns and kept you up to date with vital public health information.
We have held power to account and robustly challenged the decision-makers on your behalf.
Sometimes, our role has been to seek clarity amid confusion from the authorities, and toxic misinformation about coronavirus spread by bad actors on social media.
It’s a role we take very seriously, and our journalists are better equipped than anyone else to do the job.
And we know that our journalism is making a difference, as audiences for trusted news and information have soared during the crisis.
Independent research shows that the public place great value on news and information from sources they can trust during the pandemic.
Providing the public with trusted and accurate information is at the heart of what we do.
But our role goes much further than that.
At the start of the pandemic, the industry came together to tell readers we are #therewithyou, with nearly every daily regional title in the country running the same front page on the same day. And we haven’t looked back since.
We have run campaigns to raise funds for frontline workers and awareness of the challenging work they do each day to keep us all safe. We have given our backing to small businesses, the engine of our economy, with free advertising to help them through these challenging times.
We have launched initiatives to help people keep in touch with their families during the national and local lockdowns.
We have run campaigns demanding PPE for all frontline NHS workers, and even flown PPE into the country when supplies were short.
And we have run fundraising appeals for the millions of people who have experienced real hardship as a result of the pandemic.
The local and national news media have been a fundamental part of the country’s response to coronavirus and will continue to be so. But journalism itself has not been immune to the challenges of the pandemic.
Advertising revenues, the lifeblood of independent journalism, have been hammered by the economic downturn leaving us with less money to invest in the journalism we all want to read. At the local level, many news brands are in a perilous position.
We now urgently need Government to intervene with a series of targeted initiatives to help sustain local independent journalism in this country.
And the relationship between the news media and the tech giants needs to be properly reset.
For too long, Google and Facebook have had a free pass at using our journalism on their platforms, making huge profits, whilst contributing comparatively nothing back into the industry.
This problem must be tackled urgently in order for journalism to have a bright future.
This week (5-11 October), is the News Media Association’s Journalism Matters campaign when we celebrate the importance of journalism in our society.
Read the Queen's message to journalists here
I hope that you will join me by reflecting on all the great things that journalism does for our society and will continue to do for many years to come.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-05--Tesco unveil major changes for shoppers at every supermarket

Supermarket chain Tesco have revealed a number of changes in stores across the UK to keep staff and shoppers safe as the coronavirus pandemic continues .
We 've put together a round-up of the new things you can expect to see in Tesco supermarkets .
New 'Aldi-inspired ' traffic light system to be rolled out Several months after Aldi rolled out its 'red and green ' traffic light system , Tesco will be doing the same in larger stores .
Tesco also confirmed that larger stores will now have staff based at the entrances to help everyone follow the safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No need to panic buy' In an email to shoppers , Jason Tarry , the CEO of Tesco UK & Ireland , also urged people not to panic buy and asked store visitors to follow the legal guidance on wearing a face covering .
He also said the number of home delivery and Click+Collect slots has more than doubled since the start of the pandemic .
To help safely manage the flow in and out for customers , the company have also extended their opening hours in many of its branches .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ overnight .
To find the latest opening hours for your local store , visit Tesco 's store locator .
Tesco 's CEO added : `` When you visit our stores , please follow the legal guidance on wearing a face covering .
`` If you forget to bring one , we have packs available to buy at the front of our stores , which you can open immediately and pay for with your shopping later .
`` As a reminder , the police are able to issue fines for not wearing a face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' These are still available in Tesco stores across the country .
The supermarket has said it will continue to have social distancing guidelines and signage in place .
What have the British Retail Consortium said ?
Andrew Opie , Director of Food and Sustainability at the British Retail Consortium , said : `` Retailers have done an excellent job in ensuring customers have access to food and necessities throughout this pandemic .
`` Since March , retail businesses have strengthened their supply chains as well as investing hundreds of millions to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this includes perspex screens , social distancing measures and additional hygiene measures .
As such , retail remains a safe space for consumers , even under future lockdowns .
`` Supply chains are stronger than ever before and we do not anticipate any issues in the availability of food or other goods under a future lockdown .
`` Nonetheless , we urge consumers to be considerate of others and shop as they normally would . ''

We've put together a round-up of the new things you can expect to see in Tesco supermarkets.
New 'Aldi-inspired' traffic light system to be rolled out
Several months after Aldi rolled out its 'red and green' traffic light system, Tesco will be doing the same in larger stores.
Tesco also confirmed that larger stores will now have staff based at the entrances to help everyone follow the safety measures and answer any questions shoppers have.
No need to panic buy'
In an email to shoppers, Jason Tarry, the CEO of Tesco UK & Ireland, also urged people not to panic buy and asked store visitors to follow the legal guidance on wearing a face covering.
He also said the number of home delivery and Click+Collect slots has more than doubled since the start of the pandemic.
Opening hours
To help safely manage the flow in and out for customers, the company have also extended their opening hours in many of its branches.
However, most supermarkets will remain closed overnight.
To find the latest opening hours for your local store, visit Tesco's store locator.
Face coverings in Tesco stores
Tesco's CEO added: "When you visit our stores, please follow the legal guidance on wearing a face covering.
"If you forget to bring one, we have packs available to buy at the front of our stores, which you can open immediately and pay for with your shopping later.
"As a reminder, the police are able to issue fines for not wearing a face covering, unless you are exempt."
Hand sanitiser and cleaning stations
These are still available in Tesco stores across the country.
The supermarket has said it will continue to have social distancing guidelines and signage in place.
What have the British Retail Consortium said?
Andrew Opie, Director of Food and Sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, said: "Retailers have done an excellent job in ensuring customers have access to food and necessities throughout this pandemic.
"Since March, retail businesses have strengthened their supply chains as well as investing hundreds of millions to make stores safe and secure for customers; this includes perspex screens, social distancing measures and additional hygiene measures. As such, retail remains a safe space for consumers, even under future lockdowns.
"Supply chains are stronger than ever before and we do not anticipate any issues in the availability of food or other goods under a future lockdown.
"Nonetheless, we urge consumers to be considerate of others and shop as they normally would."