kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-11--Mark Garnier: what government is doing to help neediest

Back in 2018 , Michael Gove , when secretary of state for environment , food and rural affairs , commissioned a report on the UK ’ s food needs and expectations .
This summer , the report ’ s author Henry Dimbleby published National Food Strategy , covering areas including those of the neediest in our society .
It was much criticised by left wing commentators at the time , but footballer Marcus Rashford read it .
Its recommendations on food poverty met with his approval .
Last weekend , measures within that report were put into action by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I made the point in the column that if we believe in free school meals – which I certainly do – then why are we allowing the same children to go for up to six weeks without support during holidays ?
These latest proposals build on our existing Holiday Activities and Food Programme with an extra £220 million .
And we are providing an extra £170 million for the Covid Winter Grant Scheme .
This is , of course , in addition to the extra £1,000 in working tax credit we granted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food voucher scheme introduced to help through the summer .
It is great that Marcus Rashford has supported these measures and worked with the government to deliver a thoughtful and appropriate response to both immediate problems facing families , but also the long term problems of poverty .
It is often the case that people will look for the first time and see a problem , without realising that the government has been working on these issues for some time .
Feeding those in need is not always as simple as handing out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do help in an emergency .
There is more that can be done .
We have increased local housing benefits , worth an extra £600 a year to those in most need .
This help extends to those in the private sector , with mortgage holidays and support with council tax available .
And as part of our longer term help , the National Living Wage got its largest cash boost , giving those on minimum wage an extra 6p in the £ - equivalent to an extra £930 a year .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduction in 2016 .
Add that to the increase in the starting level of tax , and those on the lowest pay will be over £5,000 better off since 2010 .
Supporting the most vulnerable in our society is probably the most important thing we can do , and defines us as a nation .

This summer, the report’s author Henry Dimbleby published National Food Strategy, covering areas including those of the neediest in our society.
It was much criticised by left wing commentators at the time, but footballer Marcus Rashford read it.
Its recommendations on food poverty met with his approval. Last weekend, measures within that report were put into action by the government.
A couple of weeks ago, I made the point in the column that if we believe in free school meals – which I certainly do – then why are we allowing the same children to go for up to six weeks without support during holidays?
These latest proposals build on our existing Holiday Activities and Food Programme with an extra £220 million. And we are providing an extra £170 million for the Covid Winter Grant Scheme.
This is, of course, in addition to the extra £1,000 in working tax credit we granted in April, building on the temporary food voucher scheme introduced to help through the summer.
It is great that Marcus Rashford has supported these measures and worked with the government to deliver a thoughtful and appropriate response to both immediate problems facing families, but also the long term problems of poverty.
It is often the case that people will look for the first time and see a problem, without realising that the government has been working on these issues for some time.
Feeding those in need is not always as simple as handing out food vouchers – although they can and do help in an emergency.
There is more that can be done.
We have increased local housing benefits, worth an extra £600 a year to those in most need. This help extends to those in the private sector, with mortgage holidays and support with council tax available.
And as part of our longer term help, the National Living Wage got its largest cash boost, giving those on minimum wage an extra 6p in the £ - equivalent to an extra £930 a year. That’s an extra £3,600 since its introduction in 2016.
Add that to the increase in the starting level of tax, and those on the lowest pay will be over £5,000 better off since 2010.
Supporting the most vulnerable in our society is probably the most important thing we can do, and defines us as a nation.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-11--Nearly 1 in 5 Covid-19 patients struggle with mental health

Nearly one in five coronavirus patients have reported struggling with their mental health , according to the latest study .
Covid-19 patients have reported symptoms including anxiety , depression and insomnia within three months of testing positive for the virus .
But does Covid-19 cause mental health problems ?
The study , conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre , analysed 69 million electronic health records in the US , including 62,000 cases of Covid-19 .
Results found that anxiety , depression and insomnia were the most commonly developed problems , while also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health diagnosis were 65 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with coronavirus than those without .
This includes accounting for other known risk factors , such as age , sex , race and underlying physical conditions .
To examine whether the excess risk was directly associated with Covid-19 , researchers compared data with six other conditions over the same period , including influenza , other respiratory tract infections , a skin infection , gallstones , urinary tract stones , and the fracture of a large bone .
In the three months after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients recorded their first diagnosis of psychiatric illness , which was almost double that of those in the comparison groups .
However , Paul Harrison , a professor of psychiatry at the University of Oxford , said more research was needed to establish whether a diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder could be directly linked to contracting coronavirus .
Factors that influence physical health - including smoking and socio-economic background - were not captured in the analysis , while there was also potential that the general stressful environment of the pandemic may also play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a researcher who conducted the analyses , said having a psychiatric disorder should be added to the risk factors for Covid-19 .
Researchers claim that those with a history of mental illness are more likely to relapse , or receive another psychiatric diagnosis , if they contract the virus .
Dr Taquet added that it is still unclear how much circumstantial factors , such as having to self-isolate for weeks alone , play in triggering a mental disorder , but the unexpected finding needs further investigation .
Research suggests that people from poorer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mental ill-health , and are at increased risk of exposure to coronavirus , due to factors like over-crowded housing .
Studies investigating the impact of the virus on the brain and the central nervous system are still underway , with researchers stating that only time will tell as to whether the incidence of psychiatric illness post-Covid-19 will continue to rise , or persist beyond the three month period .

Covid-19 patients have reported symptoms including anxiety, depression and insomnia within three months of testing positive for the virus.
But does Covid-19 cause mental health problems?
The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford and NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, analysed 69 million electronic health records in the US, including 62,000 cases of Covid-19.
Results found that anxiety, depression and insomnia were the most commonly developed problems, while also identifying that people with a pre-existing mental health diagnosis were 65 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with coronavirus than those without.
This includes accounting for other known risk factors, such as age, sex, race and underlying physical conditions.
To examine whether the excess risk was directly associated with Covid-19, researchers compared data with six other conditions over the same period, including influenza, other respiratory tract infections, a skin infection, gallstones, urinary tract stones, and the fracture of a large bone.
In the three months after Covid-19 diagnosis, 5.8 per cent of patients recorded their first diagnosis of psychiatric illness, which was almost double that of those in the comparison groups.
However, Paul Harrison, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Oxford, said more research was needed to establish whether a diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder could be directly linked to contracting coronavirus.
Factors that influence physical health - including smoking and socio-economic background - were not captured in the analysis, while there was also potential that the general stressful environment of the pandemic may also play a role.
Is mental illness an added risk?
Dr Max Taquet, a researcher who conducted the analyses, said having a psychiatric disorder should be added to the risk factors for Covid-19.
Researchers claim that those with a history of mental illness are more likely to relapse, or receive another psychiatric diagnosis, if they contract the virus.
Dr Taquet added that it is still unclear how much circumstantial factors, such as having to self-isolate for weeks alone, play in triggering a mental disorder, but the unexpected finding needs further investigation.
Research suggests that people from poorer socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to suffer mental ill-health, and are at increased risk of exposure to coronavirus, due to factors like over-crowded housing.
Studies investigating the impact of the virus on the brain and the central nervous system are still underway, with researchers stating that only time will tell as to whether the incidence of psychiatric illness post-Covid-19 will continue to rise, or persist beyond the three month period.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--New Covid-19 test site being set up in Kidderminster

A NEW walk-through Covid-19 testing site appears to be nearing completion at the Kidderminster Harriers ' Stadium Close Car Park .
Photos shared on social media show workers setting up a unit , similar to the new testing centres seen elsewhere in Worcestershire , on the car park next to Aggborough Stadium off Hoo Road on Wednesday .
Public Health teams and the Department for Health and Social Care are yet to officially announce the location or the open date for Kidderminster 's new testing centre , however The Shuttle understands the unit is due to open on Friday ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the last of five new Worcestershire Covid test centres announced by local Public Health officials in September .
New units are already up and running in Bromsgrove , Pershore , Worcester and Redditch .
They are are designed to be easier to access for residents who don ’ t have a car .
Coronavirus tests are available from the new sites for those with symptoms such as a high temperature , a new continuous cough , or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste .
People are being advised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel well and their symptoms are mild .
To use any of the new local testing sites , residents with symptoms will still need to book online at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 .
Those being tested will need to follow public health measures , including social distancing , not travelling by taxi or public transport , practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout , including while travelling to and from the testing centre .
Anyone attending an appointment at one of the county 's test sites will be provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the test site safely , with additional support for vulnerable groups and people .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , director of Public Health for Worcestershire , said after the opening of the Bromsgrove test centre : “ All of the new testing sites offer Worcestershire residents additional options to access coronavirus testing .
`` The locations have been chosen to enable people to get a test more easily .
`` We have plenty of appointments in Worcestershire so everyone with symptoms should be able to get a test .
`` To get a test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t just turn up.
” Councillor John Smith , cabinet member for health and wellbeing , added : “ We are delighted these local sites are now coming into operation .
`` They offer more choice and testing opportunities in the county so that everyone with symptoms can get a test .
“ It continues to be important to look out for symptoms of coronavirus , as early detection can mean stopping the spread and saving lives .
”

Photos shared on social media show workers setting up a unit, similar to the new testing centres seen elsewhere in Worcestershire, on the car park next to Aggborough Stadium off Hoo Road on Wednesday.
Public Health teams and the Department for Health and Social Care are yet to officially announce the location or the open date for Kidderminster's new testing centre, however The Shuttle understands the unit is due to open on Friday (November 13).
Kidderminster's will be the last of five new Worcestershire Covid test centres announced by local Public Health officials in September.
New units are already up and running in Bromsgrove, Pershore, Worcester and Redditch.
They are are designed to be easier to access for residents who don’t have a car.
Coronavirus tests are available from the new sites for those with symptoms such as a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.
People are being advised to get a test even if they feel well and their symptoms are mild.
To use any of the new local testing sites, residents with symptoms will still need to book online at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
Those being tested will need to follow public health measures, including social distancing, not travelling by taxi or public transport, practising good personal hygiene and wearing a face covering throughout, including while travelling to and from the testing centre.
Anyone attending an appointment at one of the county's test sites will be provided with guidance on getting to and from the test site safely, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of Public Health for Worcestershire, said after the opening of the Bromsgrove test centre: “All of the new testing sites offer Worcestershire residents additional options to access coronavirus testing.
"The locations have been chosen to enable people to get a test more easily.
"We have plenty of appointments in Worcestershire so everyone with symptoms should be able to get a test.
"To get a test you must book an appointment, please don’t just turn up.”
Councillor John Smith, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, added: “We are delighted these local sites are now coming into operation.
"They offer more choice and testing opportunities in the county so that everyone with symptoms can get a test.
“It continues to be important to look out for symptoms of coronavirus, as early detection can mean stopping the spread and saving lives.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Kidderminster couple's Christmas light display for ambulance service

A COUPLE from Kidderminster are unpacking hundreds of boxes of Christmas decorations ready to transform their house into a festive wonderland in aid of the ambulance service .
Bob and Sue Reeder have been creating a spectacular festive light display at their home in Upton Road for more than 30 years , delighting children and locals while raising money for various charities .
Setting up the display is no mean feat , with hundreds of boxes of decorations to unpack and lighting to check and plug in .
Bob and Sue wanted to give something back to the paramedics that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age 70 , said : `` We make a start with putting the decorations up during the first week of November to ensure the whole display is ready and working by the first Monday of December when we switch the lights on .
`` It ’ s a big job but it ’ s something we ’ ve done for so many years that it ’ s second nature to us now and we love doing it.
” Over the years Bob and Sue have raised money for the armed forces , children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year will be donating any money left by passersby to their local West Midlands Ambulance Service hub in Worcester .
Bob , age 77 , said : `` Our great grandson Logan has needed the ambulance service several times this year and we ’ ve been so thankful for the paramedics ’ help each time .
Bob and Sue have been raising money for good causes with their Christmas display for decades '' We are so grateful to the NHS and whilst other people raise money for hospitals , we wanted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they are often the first people who come to help you in your hour of need .
`` After such a year , we hope that our display brings a smile and some joy to the neighbourhood.
” Liz Parkes , the ambulance trust ’ s senior operations manager , said : “ During the pandemic we ’ ve been overwhelmed with kindness from people across the Region but this is truly humbling and will definitely bring a much needed smile to a lot of people ’ s faces this Christmas .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ put in to make their house a Christmas winter wonderland is quite remarkable and I would like to thank them on behalf of my staff at Worcester hub for dedicating it to us this year .
”

Bob and Sue Reeder have been creating a spectacular festive light display at their home in Upton Road for more than 30 years, delighting children and locals while raising money for various charities.
Setting up the display is no mean feat, with hundreds of boxes of decorations to unpack and lighting to check and plug in.
Bob and Sue wanted to give something back to the paramedics that helped their great grandson Logan
Sue, age 70, said: "We make a start with putting the decorations up during the first week of November to ensure the whole display is ready and working by the first Monday of December when we switch the lights on.
"It’s a big job but it’s something we’ve done for so many years that it’s second nature to us now and we love doing it.”
Over the years Bob and Sue have raised money for the armed forces, children's wards and dogs homes, and this year will be donating any money left by passersby to their local West Midlands Ambulance Service hub in Worcester.
Bob, age 77, said: "Our great grandson Logan has needed the ambulance service several times this year and we’ve been so thankful for the paramedics’ help each time.
Bob and Sue have been raising money for good causes with their Christmas display for decades
"We are so grateful to the NHS and whilst other people raise money for hospitals, we wanted to say thank you to the ambulance service as they are often the first people who come to help you in your hour of need.
"After such a year, we hope that our display brings a smile and some joy to the neighbourhood.”
Liz Parkes, the ambulance trust’s senior operations manager, said: “During the pandemic we’ve been overwhelmed with kindness from people across the Region but this is truly humbling and will definitely bring a much needed smile to a lot of people’s faces this Christmas.
"The effort that Bob and Sue put in to make their house a Christmas winter wonderland is quite remarkable and I would like to thank them on behalf of my staff at Worcester hub for dedicating it to us this year.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Donations needed more than ever for our Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal

OUR annual Christmas gift appeal with Wyre Forest charity Home-Start is once again giving readers the chance to bring some seasonal joy to families in need across the district .
For the 16th year running , the Shuttle Gift Appeal is asking members of the community to buy a gift for a local child aged 0-18 whose families are facing difficulties .
Last year was our biggest appeal yet with a staggering 1,285 presents donated , and this year it 's never been more important to do our bit to help those in need .
Home-Start branch manager Belinda Darby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeal is more important than ever .
For lots of families in Wyre Forest , the pandemic has meant them losing their jobs or being put on furlough and having to live on a lower income .
`` It 's been a really hard year for everyone , but when you ’ ve already got mental health problems or you ’ re on very low income already or you ’ re struggling with other issues , it ’ s even harder to deal with this on top of everything else .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to know their children will have something to open on Christmas day . ''
Home-Start Wyre Forest currently provides support to 99 families including 162 children .
Around 80 per cent of their families have been referred due to mental health difficulties .
Since the coronavirus outbreak , the length of time families are needing support from Home-Start has increased from nine months to 12 as the charity is tasked with dealing with more complex needs .
During the lockdown , Home-Start 's dedicated team of volunteers delivered weekly care packages and food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support to parents who have struggled to cope with childcare while the schools were closed , financial difficulties , mental health issues and isolation .
Belinda said : `` We don ’ t really know what to expect with this year 's appeal - donations could be severely reduced because of Covid and everyone being strapped for cash , or we 'll get more donations than ever because the pandemic has really brought out the best in people .
`` We want to make sure these children have at least one present to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive an anonymous gift can really ease the pressure and make the festive season a little more enjoyable , but more importantly it 's sending out the message that someone cares about them at a very vulnerable time in their lives . ''
Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece added : `` It 's been such a difficult year for everyone but we 've seen throughout the pandemic how our communities have come together to help those most in need .
`` Christmas can be a really tough time for families facing difficulties and for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the toughest yet .
`` To have even one present to open on Christmas day will mean the world to these youngsters , so please donate if you can . ''
Drop-off points for donations are located at Mid-Counties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road , Kidderminster , the Swan Centre management suite , Franche Community Church , Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster and the Home-Start office in New Road .
Presents can be donated until Monday , December 14 .
Home-Start staff and volunteers will then wrap and pack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families .
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped .
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal , visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896 .

For the 16th year running, the Shuttle Gift Appeal is asking members of the community to buy a gift for a local child aged 0-18 whose families are facing difficulties.
Last year was our biggest appeal yet with a staggering 1,285 presents donated, and this year it's never been more important to do our bit to help those in need.
Home-Start branch manager Belinda Darby said: "This year’s appeal is more important than ever. For lots of families in Wyre Forest, the pandemic has meant them losing their jobs or being put on furlough and having to live on a lower income.
"It's been a really hard year for everyone, but when you’ve already got mental health problems or you’re on very low income already or you’re struggling with other issues, it’s even harder to deal with this on top of everything else.
"It would be so nice for them all to know their children will have something to open on Christmas day."
Home-Start Wyre Forest currently provides support to 99 families including 162 children. Around 80 per cent of their families have been referred due to mental health difficulties.
Since the coronavirus outbreak, the length of time families are needing support from Home-Start has increased from nine months to 12 as the charity is tasked with dealing with more complex needs.
During the lockdown, Home-Start's dedicated team of volunteers delivered weekly care packages and food parcels to 100 families and have provided support to parents who have struggled to cope with childcare while the schools were closed, financial difficulties, mental health issues and isolation.
Belinda said: "We don’t really know what to expect with this year's appeal - donations could be severely reduced because of Covid and everyone being strapped for cash, or we'll get more donations than ever because the pandemic has really brought out the best in people.
"We want to make sure these children have at least one present to open on Christmas day.
"To receive an anonymous gift can really ease the pressure and make the festive season a little more enjoyable, but more importantly it's sending out the message that someone cares about them at a very vulnerable time in their lives."
Shuttle editor Stephanie Preece added: "It's been such a difficult year for everyone but we've seen throughout the pandemic how our communities have come together to help those most in need.
"Christmas can be a really tough time for families facing difficulties and for many of them, this year will be the toughest yet.
"To have even one present to open on Christmas day will mean the world to these youngsters, so please donate if you can."
Drop-off points for donations are located at Mid-Counties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road, Kidderminster, the Swan Centre management suite, Franche Community Church, Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster and the Home-Start office in New Road.
Presents can be donated until Monday, December 14. Home-Start staff and volunteers will then wrap and pack the gifts and store them in a Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families.
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped.
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal, visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Fewer bus journeys made in Worcestershire compared to five years ago

Fewer local bus journeys are made in Worcestershire than five years ago , as service coverage in the area is squeezed .
The Department for Transport says more can be done to tackle a nationwide downward trend in bus use .
In Worcestershire , 9.3 million bus passenger journeys were made in 2019-20 – down from 13.9 million in 2014-15 , the DfT 's annual bus statistics show .
This means the average resident took 1.3 local bus journeys a month , compared to 2 in 2014-15 .
Over the same period , the number of miles clocked by local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7 million in 2014-15 to 5.8 million in 2018-19 .
Yet money spent by central and local government on local bus services in the area has reportedly risen from £4.1 million in 2014-15 to £4.6 million in 2018-19 .
Figures for 2019-20 have not yet been published .
Most of the money from local authorities went to paying operators , but some may have gone on non-local services such as longer distance routes going out of the area , according to the DfT .
Across England , there were 4.1 billion bus journeys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent from 2018-19 and 12 per cent from 2014-15 .
At the same time bus fares have increased more than the rate of inflation , and were up 2.5 per cent from 2018-19 last year .
The DfT says the number of bus journeys in 2019-20 was impacted by Covid-19 with restrictions imposed on March 23 and people discouraged from taking public transport .
But a spokeswoman added the five-year downward trend did show there was `` more that can be done to deliver reliable and regular bus services for both new and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watchdog group Transport Focus carried out survey of bus users at the end of last year .
It found 86 per cent of users were satisfied with local bus services , including 72 per cent who were satisfied with punctuality and 64 per cent with the price they were paying for fares .
The Campaign for Better Transport , a pressure group , said the annual bus statistics show `` how bus cuts and rising fares were hitting communities hard , long before the pandemic '' .
Head of media Alice Ridley said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be affordable and convenient to avoid car journeys escalating and non-drivers being excluded . ''
Charity Bus Users says public transport must be treated by the Government and local councils in the same way as social care and education to encourage greater passenger usage and help the environment .
Director Claire Walters said : `` There needs to be far more effort put into talking to communities about their travel needs , engaging with them to understand their start points and destinations and planning transport to meet those needs . ''
The Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strategy aimed at laying a platform for working with local councils and private operators to improve local bus services .
The DfT spokeswoman said : “ This will build on our significant investment , which includes more than £900 million of emergency funding to keep buses moving throughout the pandemic . ''

The Department for Transport says more can be done to tackle a nationwide downward trend in bus use.
In Worcestershire, 9.3 million bus passenger journeys were made in 2019-20 – down from 13.9 million in 2014-15, the DfT's annual bus statistics show. This means the average resident took 1.3 local bus journeys a month, compared to 2 in 2014-15.
Over the same period, the number of miles clocked by local buses in the area fell, from 7 million in 2014-15 to 5.8 million in 2018-19.
Yet money spent by central and local government on local bus services in the area has reportedly risen from £4.1 million in 2014-15 to £4.6 million in 2018-19 . Figures for 2019-20 have not yet been published.
Most of the money from local authorities went to paying operators, but some may have gone on non-local services such as longer distance routes going out of the area, according to the DfT.
Across England, there were 4.1 billion bus journeys taken in 2019-20, down 6 per cent from 2018-19 and 12 per cent from 2014-15.
At the same time bus fares have increased more than the rate of inflation, and were up 2.5 per cent from 2018-19 last year.
The DfT says the number of bus journeys in 2019-20 was impacted by Covid-19 with restrictions imposed on March 23 and people discouraged from taking public transport.
But a spokeswoman added the five-year downward trend did show there was "more that can be done to deliver reliable and regular bus services for both new and existing passengers".
In Worcestershire, watchdog group Transport Focus carried out survey of bus users at the end of last year.
It found 86 per cent of users were satisfied with local bus services, including 72 per cent who were satisfied with punctuality and 64 per cent with the price they were paying for fares.
The Campaign for Better Transport, a pressure group, said the annual bus statistics show "how bus cuts and rising fares were hitting communities hard, long before the pandemic".
Head of media Alice Ridley said: "Travelling by public transport must be affordable and convenient to avoid car journeys escalating and non-drivers being excluded."
Charity Bus Users says public transport must be treated by the Government and local councils in the same way as social care and education to encourage greater passenger usage and help the environment.
Director Claire Walters said: "There needs to be far more effort put into talking to communities about their travel needs, engaging with them to understand their start points and destinations and planning transport to meet those needs."
The Government is currently drawing up a National Bus Strategy aimed at laying a platform for working with local councils and private operators to improve local bus services.
The DfT spokeswoman said: “This will build on our significant investment, which includes more than £900 million of emergency funding to keep buses moving throughout the pandemic."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to be marked with four-day Bank Holiday weekend in 2022

Buckingham Palace has revealed plans to hold four days of celebrations to mark The Queen 's Platinum Jubilee in 2022 .
Here 's everything you need to know .
What is planned for 2022 ?
The milestone will be marked with a “ once-in-a-generation show ” over a special four-day Bank Holiday weekend , Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has announced .
On February 6 , 2022 , the Queen will have reigned as monarch for 70 years – the first time a British sovereign will have been on the throne for seven decades .
Plans are in place to stage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from June 2-5 in 2022 , which will reflect the Queen ’ s reign and her impact on the UK and the world since her accession to the throne in 1952 .
What have Buckingham Palace said ?
A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said : “ The Platinum Jubilee offers an opportunity for the Queen to express her thanks for the support and loyalty Her Majesty has received throughout her reign .
The Queen hopes that as many people as possible will have the opportunity to join the celebrations.
” What has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Her Majesty ’ s Platinum Jubilee will be a truly historic moment – and one that deserves a celebration to remember .
“ We can all look forward to a special , four-day Jubilee weekend , when we will put on a spectacular , once-in-a-generation show that mixes the best of British ceremonial splendour with cutting edge art and technology .
“ It will bring the entire nation and the Commonwealth together in a fitting tribute to Her Majesty ’ s reign.
” What will happen during the celebrations ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take part in the celebrations over the extended weekend and in the run-up to the four-day extravaganza .
In keeping with tradition , a Platinum Jubilee medal will be awarded to people who work in public service , including representatives of the Armed Forces , the emergency services and the prison services .
Celebrations marking the milestone will held during 2022 in the run up to the weekend .
The first week in June has been chosen for the Platinum weekend , just like the Queen ’ s Golden and Diamond Jubilees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better chance of good weather .
February 6 , 1952 – the day the Queen became monarch – is also the anniversary of the death of her father King George VI and not a date the head of state would wish to base celebrations around .
The Royal Household and the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport ( DCMS ) are organising the commemorations which are being developed with some of the UK ’ s leading creative minds , event organisers and world class digital design companies .
The DCMS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London and other major cities will be complemented by events in communities across the UK and the Commonwealth .
To create the four-day weekend in June 2022 , the late May Spring Bank Holiday that year will be moved to Thursday June 2 and an additional Bank Holiday on Friday , June 3 , will be created .
The Queen ’ s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 saw the Diamond Jubilee River Thames pageant staged alongside a concert featuring Stevie Wonder , Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney .

Here's everything you need to know.
What is planned for 2022?
The milestone will be marked with a “once-in-a-generation show” over a special four-day Bank Holiday weekend, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has announced.
On February 6, 2022, the Queen will have reigned as monarch for 70 years – the first time a British sovereign will have been on the throne for seven decades.
Plans are in place to stage a series of events across four days, from June 2-5 in 2022, which will reflect the Queen’s reign and her impact on the UK and the world since her accession to the throne in 1952.
What have Buckingham Palace said?
A Buckingham Palace spokeswoman said: “The Platinum Jubilee offers an opportunity for the Queen to express her thanks for the support and loyalty Her Majesty has received throughout her reign. The Queen hopes that as many people as possible will have the opportunity to join the celebrations.”
What has the Culture Secretary said?
The Culture Secretary said: “Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee will be a truly historic moment – and one that deserves a celebration to remember.
“We can all look forward to a special, four-day Jubilee weekend, when we will put on a spectacular, once-in-a-generation show that mixes the best of British ceremonial splendour with cutting edge art and technology.
“It will bring the entire nation and the Commonwealth together in a fitting tribute to Her Majesty’s reign.”
What will happen during the celebrations?
Members of the royal family are expected to take part in the celebrations over the extended weekend and in the run-up to the four-day extravaganza.
In keeping with tradition, a Platinum Jubilee medal will be awarded to people who work in public service, including representatives of the Armed Forces, the emergency services and the prison services.
Celebrations marking the milestone will held during 2022 in the run up to the weekend.
The first week in June has been chosen for the Platinum weekend, just like the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees, with the summer month offering a better chance of good weather.
February 6, 1952 – the day the Queen became monarch – is also the anniversary of the death of her father King George VI and not a date the head of state would wish to base celebrations around.
The Royal Household and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) are organising the commemorations which are being developed with some of the UK’s leading creative minds, event organisers and world class digital design companies.
The DCMS has said “spectacular” moments in London and other major cities will be complemented by events in communities across the UK and the Commonwealth.
To create the four-day weekend in June 2022, the late May Spring Bank Holiday that year will be moved to Thursday June 2 and an additional Bank Holiday on Friday, June 3, will be created.
The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 saw the Diamond Jubilee River Thames pageant staged alongside a concert featuring Stevie Wonder, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Man in custody after armed police surround house in Bewdley

ARMED police had their guns trained on a house in Bewdley as a man was led outside by officers and @ @ @ @ @ neighbour described seeing armed police and other officers behind a shield approaching a house in @ @ @ @ @ midday on Thursday , November 12 .
The resident , who asked not to be @ @ @ @ @ man at the house holding a weapon and said the lane was blocked off by @ @ @ @ @ the scene .
Police say they were called to a report of concern for the @ @ @ @ @ around midday .
Two air rifles were seized at the property and a man in @ @ @ @ @ and remains in custody .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said : `` At @ @ @ @ @ and unarmed officers attended a house in Bewdley following a report of concern for the @ @ @ @ @ `` Two air rifles were seized at the property and a man in his late @ @ @ @ @ now in custody . ''

A neighbour described seeing armed police and other officers behind a shield approaching a house in Dry Mill Lane shortly after midday on Thursday, November 12.
The resident, who asked not to be identified, reported seeing a man at the house holding a weapon and said the lane was blocked off by police while officers were at the scene.
Police say they were called to a report of concern for the welfare of a man at around midday.
Two air rifles were seized at the property and a man in his late 30s was arrested and remains in custody.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "At around 12pm today, armed and unarmed officers attended a house in Bewdley following a report of concern for the welfare of a man.
"Two air rifles were seized at the property and a man in his late 30s was arrested and is now in custody."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Kidderminster soft play centre closes as bosses 'cut losses'

A CHILDREN 's indoor soft play area in Kidderminster which has been unable to reopen since the first lockdown in March has now closed down for good .
Bosses at Monkey Mayhem , in Meadow Mill Industrial Estate , made the announcement on social media on Wednesday , saying they had decided to `` cut our losses '' after nine months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The post read : `` It ’ s with a heavy heart that we have to announce unfortunately we won ’ t be reopening and Monkey Mayhem will be no more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of November and this was the best decision for us .
`` It ’ s been a really difficult decision we ’ ve had to make but without being able to re-open since March and still having to pay full rent , electricity bills , phone and internet bills to name a few we ’ ve decided we have to cut our losses now !
`` I ’ d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support you ’ ve given us since we took over back in January @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minute of it ! ''
It went on to say : `` What a crazy year it ’ s been !
Thank you for joining us on our short but amazing adventure , take care all and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support . ''
Soft play areas in England were given the go-ahead to reopen in August , however Monkey Mayhem told customers in September it was working on a plan to open safely due to the centre 's small size .
The closure announcement was met @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customers .
One parent wrote : `` Such a shame but fully understandable .
My kids absolutely love it at monkey mayhem we travel from Worcester weekly to visit and always had a positive experience . ''
Another person commented : `` You did a fantastic job getting the place up and running again , but in the circumstances , I do n't think anyone could blame you .
Thanks for lots of lovely memories . ''
The owner of another soft play centre in Worcester wrote : `` Just seen the terrible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So sad to see that a local play centre has to close due to Covid .
We know how tough things are at the moment and my team and I wish you and your staff all the best.
`` Monkey Mayhem bosses will continue to operate their other soft play centre , Chilly Kiddy 's in Mill Race Lane , Stourbridge .

Bosses at Monkey Mayhem, in Meadow Mill Industrial Estate, made the announcement on social media on Wednesday, saying they had decided to "cut our losses" after nine months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The post read: "It’s with a heavy heart that we have to announce unfortunately we won’t be reopening and Monkey Mayhem will be no more. Our tenancy is up the end of November and this was the best decision for us.
"It’s been a really difficult decision we’ve had to make but without being able to re-open since March and still having to pay full rent, electricity bills, phone and internet bills to name a few we’ve decided we have to cut our losses now!
"I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support you’ve given us since we took over back in January 2019! We’ve loved every minute of it!"
It went on to say: "What a crazy year it’s been! Thank you for joining us on our short but amazing adventure, take care all and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support."
Soft play areas in England were given the go-ahead to reopen in August, however Monkey Mayhem told customers in September it was working on a plan to open safely due to the centre's small size.
The closure announcement was met with dozens of kind messages from upset customers.
One parent wrote: "Such a shame but fully understandable. My kids absolutely love it at monkey mayhem we travel from Worcester weekly to visit and always had a positive experience."
Another person commented: "You did a fantastic job getting the place up and running again, but in the circumstances, I don't think anyone could blame you. Thanks for lots of lovely memories."
The owner of another soft play centre in Worcester wrote: "Just seen the terrible news that you are not reopening. So sad to see that a local play centre has to close due to Covid. We know how tough things are at the moment and my team and I wish you and your staff all the best. "
Monkey Mayhem bosses will continue to operate their other soft play centre, Chilly Kiddy's in Mill Race Lane, Stourbridge.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Kidderminster girl donates long hair to child with cancer

A KIND-HEARTED schoolgirl from Kidderminster has donated 12 inches of her long hair to charity after growing it out for over a year .
Holy Trinity School student Caitlyn Shearn , aged 12 , set about growing her hair to the length required by the Little Princess Trust to make a long-haired wig for a child with cancer .
The youngster , who lives with her family on the Spennells Estate , had her long locks chopped off at Hair Tec in Blackwell Street .
Caitlyn also raised £555 for the Hereford-based charity through sponsorship from friends , family and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Caitlyn read something on the internet last year about the Little Princess Trust and decided to donate her hair , but she wanted to get it to the maximum length because the charity gets lots of short hair , but not many longer hair donations .
`` She was quite nervous to start with when it came to the day of the hair cut - they said they would have to cut off a bit more than she intended because of the dry bits at the end .
I asked her if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said we have to now because we 've raised a lot of money .
`` I was a bit worried but when they showed her what it looked like afterwards , she loved it !
`` Everyone is very proud of her efforts . ''

Holy Trinity School student Caitlyn Shearn, aged 12, set about growing her hair to the length required by the Little Princess Trust to make a long-haired wig for a child with cancer.
The youngster, who lives with her family on the Spennells Estate, had her long locks chopped off at Hair Tec in Blackwell Street.
Caitlyn also raised £555 for the Hereford-based charity through sponsorship from friends, family and neighbours.
Mum Helen Shearn said: "Caitlyn read something on the internet last year about the Little Princess Trust and decided to donate her hair, but she wanted to get it to the maximum length because the charity gets lots of short hair, but not many longer hair donations.
"She was quite nervous to start with when it came to the day of the hair cut - they said they would have to cut off a bit more than she intended because of the dry bits at the end. I asked her if she still wanted to do it and she said we have to now because we've raised a lot of money.
"I was a bit worried but when they showed her what it looked like afterwards, she loved it!
"Everyone is very proud of her efforts."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Three and Vodafone to hike prices for existing customers

Thousands of customers with Vodafone and on the Three mobile network could see a rise in their bills next year as new contract changes begin .
Three and Vodafone pay monthly mobile or broadband customers who sign up to a new deal or upgrade to a fresh contract face price increases in 2021 - after the companies altered their terms and conditions .
How much will costs rise by ?
Although mobile phone firms usually increase prices each year based on inflation , the operators have said that , next year , customers who are new or choose to upgrade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is to increase bills for new customers or those who upgraded after October 29 , 2020 by 4.5 per cent each April , affecting SIM only , mobile broadband and home broadband customers .
Vodafone will hike costs for customers who joined or upgraded after December 9 , based on the Consumer Price Index ( CPI ) - which is currently 0.7 per cent - plus 3.9 per cent .
This will affect all pay monthly customers , including those with mobile contracts , SIM only and home broadband deals , and tablet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Watch and Vodafone Basics plans .
Vodafone said customers on average contracts would pay around £20 to £22 more a year , but this will vary based on the price plan the customer is on .
Three said the average monthly cost for contract voice customers is £24.45 , and a 4.5 per crnt increase will mean an average increase per year of £13.20 , or an increase of £1.20 a month .
Customers who joined before those dates will still be subject to increases by the old measures .
What have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Three UK said : “ Like other mobile providers , our pay monthly plans are subject to an annual price change .
We have taken the decision to apply an annual fixed percentage increase of 4.5 % for new and upgrading customers from 29 October 2020 .
This means , for example , that a £20 per month contract will see an increase of 90p per month .
This change will be applied in April 2021 .
“ We believe that integral to a great customer experience is certainty and transparency .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variable and unpredictable increases applied by other MNOs , customers will not have to rely on a fluctuating RPI or CPI rate to clearly understand the full cost of their contract .
`` Central to providing the best possible service and range of products is our network , and we must invest more to deliver on this .
`` We are investing +£2 billion in the UK ’ s fastest 5G network to ensure we have a strong network , capable of delivering better connectivity , every day , for every customer.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Three contract on or after October 29 , 2020 , or a new Vodafone contract on or after December 9 , 2020 , then you will not be able to leave penalty-free if you are unhappy with this new price increase .
However , if you are unhappy with the price hike , but can not yet leave your contract , then it ’ s worth noting down when your contract will end , so you can start looking for new deals shortly before it ’ s set to finish .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vodafone and outside of your minimum contract term , then you will not be affected by this price rise until you decide to renew .
If you ’ re unhappy with the upcoming rise in prices , then it ’ s worth looking around and comparing prices to find the best deal for you .

Three and Vodafone pay monthly mobile or broadband customers who sign up to a new deal or upgrade to a fresh contract face price increases in 2021 - after the companies altered their terms and conditions.
How much will costs rise by?
Although mobile phone firms usually increase prices each year based on inflation, the operators have said that, next year, customers who are new or choose to upgrade will face higher fees.
Three Mobile is to increase bills for new customers or those who upgraded after October 29, 2020 by 4.5 per cent each April, affecting SIM only, mobile broadband and home broadband customers.
Vodafone will hike costs for customers who joined or upgraded after December 9, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) - which is currently 0.7 per cent - plus 3.9 per cent.
This will affect all pay monthly customers, including those with mobile contracts, SIM only and home broadband deals, and tablet, Apple and Samsung Watch, OneNumber for Watch and Vodafone Basics plans.
Vodafone said customers on average contracts would pay around £20 to £22 more a year, but this will vary based on the price plan the customer is on.
Three said the average monthly cost for contract voice customers is £24.45, and a 4.5 per crnt increase will mean an average increase per year of £13.20, or an increase of £1.20 a month.
Customers who joined before those dates will still be subject to increases by the old measures.
What have Three UK said?
A spokesperson for Three UK said: “Like other mobile providers, our pay monthly plans are subject to an annual price change. We have taken the decision to apply an annual fixed percentage increase of 4.5% for new and upgrading customers from 29 October 2020. This means, for example, that a £20 per month contract will see an increase of 90p per month. This change will be applied in April 2021.
“We believe that integral to a great customer experience is certainty and transparency. With a fixed price change compared to the variable and unpredictable increases applied by other MNOs, customers will not have to rely on a fluctuating RPI or CPI rate to clearly understand the full cost of their contract.
"Central to providing the best possible service and range of products is our network, and we must invest more to deliver on this.
"We are investing +£2 billion in the UK’s fastest 5G network to ensure we have a strong network, capable of delivering better connectivity, every day, for every customer.”
Can I leave my contract?
If you renew or sign a new Three contract on or after October 29, 2020, or a new Vodafone contract on or after December 9, 2020, then you will not be able to leave penalty-free if you are unhappy with this new price increase.
However, if you are unhappy with the price hike, but cannot yet leave your contract, then it’s worth noting down when your contract will end, so you can start looking for new deals shortly before it’s set to finish.
If you're an existing customer of Three or Vodafone and outside of your minimum contract term, then you will not be affected by this price rise until you decide to renew.
If you’re unhappy with the upcoming rise in prices, then it’s worth looking around and comparing prices to find the best deal for you.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-12--Worcestershire police force hands out third of all coronavirus face mask fines

A THIRD of all fines handed out for not wearing a face mask in shops and supermarkets have been issued by West Mercia Police , the latest figures reveal .
However , the scale of the penalties was branded 'proportionate ' by West Mercia 's Police and Crime Commissioner .
West Mercia Police , the force which covers Worcestershire , has so far handed out 57 £200 fines to people for not wearing a mask in a ‘ relevant ’ place .
Figures provided by the National Police Chiefs Council ( NPCC ) show 172 fines have been handed out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask in shops and supermarkets since July 24 with penalties issued by West Mercia Police accounting for a sizeable proportion of all the country 's face mask fines .
Coronavirus legislation defines a ‘ relevant ’ place as shops , supermarkets , shopping centres , post offices , banks , bus and train stations and other transport hubs .
A total of 234 fines have been handed out by West Mercia Police since lockdown began according to NPCC figures .
The force has not handed out any fines for gatherings of more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were handed out under the first set of coronavirus regulations , known as 'number one ' which came to an end on July 3 with 169 penalties issued .
A total of 64 fines have since been handed out by police since new coronavirus legislation , called 'number two , ' was introduced on July 4 .
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said , “ It ’ s been encouraging to see that the majority of people in West Mercia have continued to do the right thing and adhered to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are now in force .
“ I am reassured that West Mercia Police are playing a proactive and proportionate role in supporting our communities during this health emergency .
“ The role of the police is to support and work with communities , but also ultimately enforce the law in a fair and proportionate way .
“ I am reassured that the number of Covid-19 related tickets issued in West Mercia represents a tiny proportion of our population , reinforcing the fact that the majority continue to do the right thing .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very clear that the minority that flout the restrictions will be on the receiving end of enforcement activity , and I fully support the stance that West Mercia Police have taken .
“ We need to continue to act together as a community in response to the threat this virus presents.
” Face mask rules first came into place on June 15 with passengers on public transport told they must wear one .
Masks were then made mandatory in shops and supermarkets on July 24 .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson then announced on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , those travelling in taxis , and staff and customers in indoor hospitality ( except while seated at a table to eat or drink ) would have to wear face masks .
Those failing to wear a face mask where required are fined £200 for the first offence , reduced to £100 if paid within 14 days .
Repeat offenders will have their fines doubled at each offence , up to a maximum of £6,400 .
A total of 20,223 penalties were issued in England and Wales between March 27 and October 19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one regulations , 530 under number two regulations , 66 for holding a gathering of more than 30 people and 980 notices issued in relation to breaches of local lockdowns .
The majority of fine issued for breaches of local lockdowns were issued in two forces – 374 in Greater Manchester and 366 in Northumbria .

However, the scale of the penalties was branded 'proportionate' by West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner.
West Mercia Police, the force which covers Worcestershire, has so far handed out 57 £200 fines to people for not wearing a mask in a ‘relevant’ place.
Figures provided by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) show 172 fines have been handed out across the country for not wearing a mask in shops and supermarkets since July 24 with penalties issued by West Mercia Police accounting for a sizeable proportion of all the country's face mask fines.
Coronavirus legislation defines a ‘relevant’ place as shops, supermarkets, shopping centres, post offices, banks, bus and train stations and other transport hubs.
A total of 234 fines have been handed out by West Mercia Police since lockdown began according to NPCC figures.
The force has not handed out any fines for gatherings of more than 30 people.
The majority of fines were handed out under the first set of coronavirus regulations, known as 'number one' which came to an end on July 3 with 169 penalties issued.
A total of 64 fines have since been handed out by police since new coronavirus legislation, called 'number two,' was introduced on July 4.
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said, “It’s been encouraging to see that the majority of people in West Mercia have continued to do the right thing and adhered to the enhanced restrictions set by Government that are now in force.
“I am reassured that West Mercia Police are playing a proactive and proportionate role in supporting our communities during this health emergency.
“The role of the police is to support and work with communities, but also ultimately enforce the law in a fair and proportionate way.
“I am reassured that the number of Covid-19 related tickets issued in West Mercia represents a tiny proportion of our population, reinforcing the fact that the majority continue to do the right thing.
“The West Mercia Chief Constable has been very clear that the minority that flout the restrictions will be on the receiving end of enforcement activity, and I fully support the stance that West Mercia Police have taken.
“We need to continue to act together as a community in response to the threat this virus presents.”
Face mask rules first came into place on June 15 with passengers on public transport told they must wear one.
Masks were then made mandatory in shops and supermarkets on July 24.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson then announced on September 22 that people working in retail, those travelling in taxis, and staff and customers in indoor hospitality (except while seated at a table to eat or drink) would have to wear face masks.
Those failing to wear a face mask where required are fined £200 for the first offence, reduced to £100 if paid within 14 days.
Repeat offenders will have their fines doubled at each offence, up to a maximum of £6,400.
A total of 20,223 penalties were issued in England and Wales between March 27 and October 19.
This includes 18,646 issued under number one regulations, 530 under number two regulations, 66 for holding a gathering of more than 30 people and 980 notices issued in relation to breaches of local lockdowns.
The majority of fine issued for breaches of local lockdowns were issued in two forces – 374 in Greater Manchester and 366 in Northumbria.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Man dies after being pulled from canal in Stourport

A MAN died at the scene after being pulled from the canal in Stourport .
Ambulances and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car rushed to the scene near Lower Mitton Bridge at around 3.30pm on Thursday , November 12 .
A man was pulled from the water and was in serious condition when paramedics began administering advanced life support .
Sadly , despite ambulance staff 's best efforts , nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water near to Lower Mitton Bridge on the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal at 3.29pm yesterday .
`` Two ambulances , a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car attended the scene .
`` On arrival we discovered one patient , a man , who was in a serious condition .
`` Ambulance staff administered advanced life support , but sadly it became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene . ''
A spokesman from West Mercia Police said : `` At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we were contacted by a member of the public who reported they had a seen a body in the canal in Stourport .
`` Officers attended the scene near to Mitton Bridge and pulled a man from the water .
He was given emergency treatment by attending offices and then was also treated by paramedics who arrived a short time after .
`` Sadly , the man who is in 70s and from Stourport , died .
His death is not being treated as suspicious and the man ’ s family have been @ @ @

Ambulances and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car rushed to the scene near Lower Mitton Bridge at around 3.30pm on Thursday, November 12.
A man was pulled from the water and was in serious condition when paramedics began administering advanced life support.
Sadly, despite ambulance staff's best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called to reports of a patient in the water near to Lower Mitton Bridge on the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal at 3.29pm yesterday.
"Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance critical care car attended the scene.
"On arrival we discovered one patient, a man, who was in a serious condition.
"Ambulance staff administered advanced life support, but sadly it became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene."
A spokesman from West Mercia Police said: "At around 3.20pm yesterday (12 November) we were contacted by a member of the public who reported they had a seen a body in the canal in Stourport.
"Officers attended the scene near to Mitton Bridge and pulled a man from the water. He was given emergency treatment by attending offices and then was also treated by paramedics who arrived a short time after.
"Sadly, the man who is in 70s and from Stourport, died. His death is not being treated as suspicious and the man’s family have been informed."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Landmark Horsefair clock will return to Horsefair

THE iconic Horsefair clock will be reinstated later this month following a three-year campaign by volunteers to restore the Kidderminster landmark to its former glory .
Community group Horsefair and Proud , alongside local councillors , have long campaigned for the timepiece to be restored after it was removed by Highways workers in 1969 .
Residents had originally hoped to restore the original clock , which had stood proudly outside The Old Peacock since 1912 , however they were unable to find the historic clock in any storage or archive records and its whereabouts remain a mystery .
The Old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was erected in honour of businessman and councillor Fred Oakes .
Last year , after raising in excess of £14,000 in donations from local residents , businesses , grants and councillor funding , Horsefair and Proud commissioned Smiths of Derby to create a bespoke replica of the pillar clock , which will finally be installed in its rightful place later this month .
Group chairman Colby Woodall said : `` The clock has not only been missed by the Horsefair community but the whole town since its removal and it is remembered fondly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s been a fantastic effort by the whole community to see this dream become a reality and it 's evidence what can be achieved when everybody unites and pulls in the same direction .
`` We have seen political parties of all colours coming together to help get this over the line and donations have come in from every faith group represented in the area , in addition to both large and small private giving .
`` I am obviously delighted for the area , and it ’ s great to know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clock very soon .
`` I am also particularly pleased for Cllr Mary Rayner and Steve Walker , former resident and committee member , who worked so hard to try to locate and reinstate the original clock .
Horsefair and Proud members Dot Thomas , Ian Parkes , Colby Woodall and Spike Betterton stood at the site prepared for the new clock '' Steve kickstarted the project to get the replica clock designed and manufactured , and helped raise the required funds .
`` I would like to thank Spike Betterton for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highways project team over the last two years . ''
Mr Woodall added : “ The Horsefair is an important gateway to the town centre and this installation in conjunction with the recent highway improvements will go a long way to revitalise the town . ''
Due to Covid-19 restrictions , there will not be a grand unveiling event for the clock , however Horsefair and Proud plans to organise a community event to celebrate its reinstatement once guidelines allow .

Community group Horsefair and Proud, alongside local councillors, have long campaigned for the timepiece to be restored after it was removed by Highways workers in 1969.
Residents had originally hoped to restore the original clock, which had stood proudly outside The Old Peacock since 1912, however they were unable to find the historic clock in any storage or archive records and its whereabouts remain a mystery.
The Old Peacock in the Horsefair
The original clock was erected in honour of businessman and councillor Fred Oakes.
Last year, after raising in excess of £14,000 in donations from local residents, businesses, grants and councillor funding, Horsefair and Proud commissioned Smiths of Derby to create a bespoke replica of the pillar clock, which will finally be installed in its rightful place later this month.
Group chairman Colby Woodall said: "The clock has not only been missed by the Horsefair community but the whole town since its removal and it is remembered fondly by the older residents.
"It’s been a fantastic effort by the whole community to see this dream become a reality and it's evidence what can be achieved when everybody unites and pulls in the same direction.
"We have seen political parties of all colours coming together to help get this over the line and donations have come in from every faith group represented in the area, in addition to both large and small private giving.
"I am obviously delighted for the area, and it’s great to know its people are going to enjoy the clock very soon.
"I am also particularly pleased for Cllr Mary Rayner and Steve Walker, former resident and committee member, who worked so hard to try to locate and reinstate the original clock.
Horsefair and Proud members Dot Thomas, Ian Parkes, Colby Woodall and Spike Betterton stood at the site prepared for the new clock
"Steve kickstarted the project to get the replica clock designed and manufactured, and helped raise the required funds.
"I would like to thank Spike Betterton for his support while we have liaised with the highways project team over the last two years."
Mr Woodall added: “The Horsefair is an important gateway to the town centre and this installation in conjunction with the recent highway improvements will go a long way to revitalise the town."
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will not be a grand unveiling event for the clock, however Horsefair and Proud plans to organise a community event to celebrate its reinstatement once guidelines allow.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--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 @ @ @ @ @

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Number of Covid patients at Worcestershire's hospitals reaches highest level since May

THE number of patients being treated in the county ’ s hospitals for Covid has started returning to levels last seen six months ago as cases continue to rise .
A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5 according to the latest NHS figures .
Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator .
The last time the number of occupied beds was that high among Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was in May .
Figures show there was a sharp increase in Covid patients being admitted to hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people admitted in the last two weeks .
Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4 .
An average of 21 beds were occupied by Covid patients throughout October – around three per cent of all beds .
The number of beds occupied by Covid patients was in single figures from the first week of July until late September before hitting 10 beds on September 29 .
A total of 20 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on October 18 before reaching 50 beds on October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital beds occupied by Covid patients during a month in Worcestershire was 110 in April .
Data shows a total of 141 beds were being used by Covid patients on April 6 – the highest figure seen in the county on one day so far .
On the same day in April , 20 of those patients were using beds with ventilators .
An average of 22 hospital beds were being used in June compared to 54 beds in May and 39 beds in March .
Four people with Covid-19 were admitted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to data , with one person admitted in August , two people were admitted in July and six people were admitted in June .
A total of 44 people with coronavirus were admitted to hospital in May with 25 people admitted in April .
One person was admitted to hospital between March 19 and March 31 .
A total of 872 people have been diagnosed with Covid at the county ’ s hospitals between March 19 and November 4 , according to the data .
A total of 670 people were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been treated for coronavirus in the months up to November with a total of 170 people admitted to hospital with Covid during the same period .

A total of 64 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on November 5 according to the latest NHS figures.
Seven of the people in hospital with Covid were using a ventilator.
The last time the number of occupied beds was that high among Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust was in May.
Figures show there was a sharp increase in Covid patients being admitted to hospital towards the end of October with eight people admitted in the last two weeks.
Six of the people were admitted in the week up to November 4.
An average of 21 beds were occupied by Covid patients throughout October – around three per cent of all beds.
The number of beds occupied by Covid patients was in single figures from the first week of July until late September before hitting 10 beds on September 29.
A total of 20 beds were occupied by Covid patients in Worcestershire on October 18 before reaching 50 beds on October 31.
The highest average number of hospital beds occupied by Covid patients during a month in Worcestershire was 110 in April.
Data shows a total of 141 beds were being used by Covid patients on April 6 – the highest figure seen in the county on one day so far. On the same day in April, 20 of those patients were using beds with ventilators.
An average of 22 hospital beds were being used in June compared to 54 beds in May and 39 beds in March.
Four people with Covid-19 were admitted to Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust in September, according to data, with one person admitted in August, two people were admitted in July and six people were admitted in June.
A total of 44 people with coronavirus were admitted to hospital in May with 25 people admitted in April.
One person was admitted to hospital between March 19 and March 31.
A total of 872 people have been diagnosed with Covid at the county’s hospitals between March 19 and November 4, according to the data.
A total of 670 people were discharged from Worcestershire’s hospitals having been treated for coronavirus in the months up to November with a total of 170 people admitted to hospital with Covid during the same period.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--UK Quarantine List: Transport Secretary issues new update for travellers

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has provided a new update on the UK 's quarantine list .
In an update issued @ @ @ @ @ November 12 , Mr Shapps said that most of Greece will be removed from the @ @ @ @ @ travel corridors .
Only people arriving in the UK from the islands of Corfu , @ @ @ @ @ – also known as Zante – and Kos will be exempt from the 14-day self @ @ @ @ @ added to the travel corridors list this week are : Bahrain , Cambodia , Chile @ @ @ @ @ Qatar , Turks and Caicos Islands and the United Arab Emirates .
The changes come @ @ @ @ @ November 14 , at 4am .
Meanwhile , the ban on people arriving in the @ @ @ @ @ extended for a further 14 days .
Greece was the last major European hotspot on @ @ @ @ @ But the impact of its removal is limited due to existing coronavirus lockdown restrictions .

Here's the latest.
In an update issued at 5pm on Thursday, November 12, Mr Shapps said that most of Greece will be removed from the Government’s list of travel corridors.
Only people arriving in the UK from the islands of Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, Zakynthos – also known as Zante – and Kos will be exempt from the 14-day self isolation requirement.
The countries added to the travel corridors list this week are: Bahrain, Cambodia, Chile, Iceland, Laos, Qatar, Turks and Caicos Islands and the United Arab Emirates.
The changes come into force on Saturday, November 14, at 4am.
Meanwhile, the ban on people arriving in the UK from Denmark has been extended for a further 14 days.
Greece was the last major European hotspot on the travel corridors list.
But the impact of its removal is limited due to existing coronavirus lockdown restrictions.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Peter Sutcliffe, the Yorkshire Ripper, dies at 74

The Yorkshire Ripper serial killer Peter Sutcliffe has died in hospital - the Prison Service has confirmed .
The 74-year-old @ @ @ @ @ University Hospital of North Durham after being transferred there from maximum security HMP Frankland , @ @ @ @ @ .
Sutcliffe had tested positive for Covid-19 and was suffering from underlying health conditions .
@ @ @ @ @ life term for murdering 13 women across Yorkshire and the North West between 1975 and @ @ @ @ @ in 1981 and , after a long spell in Broadmoor Hospital in Berkshire , he @ @ @ @ @ in 2016 after being deemed stable enough to serve time in prison .
What have @ @ @ @ @ A Prison Service spokesman said : “ HMP Frankland prisoner Peter Coonan ( born Sutcliffe @ @ @ @ @ November 13 .
The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has been informed.
” Sutcliffe had reportedly @ @ @ @ @ conditions before his death including heart trouble , diabetes and obesity .

The 74-year-old had reportedly refused treatment at University Hospital of North Durham after being transferred there from maximum security HMP Frankland, where he was an inmate.
Sutcliffe had tested positive for Covid-19 and was suffering from underlying health conditions.
He was serving a whole life term for murdering 13 women across Yorkshire and the North West between 1975 and 1980.
He was convicted in 1981 and, after a long spell in Broadmoor Hospital in Berkshire, he was transferred to HMP Frankland in 2016 after being deemed stable enough to serve time in prison.
What have the Prison Service said?
A Prison Service spokesman said: “HMP Frankland prisoner Peter Coonan (born Sutcliffe) died in hospital on November 13. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has been informed.”
Sutcliffe had reportedly suffered from a range of conditions before his death including heart trouble, diabetes and obesity.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Bird flu outbreak UK: Strict rules introduced to stop spread of ‘highly infectious’ flu

Strict new restrictions have been introduced across Britain to stop the spread of 'highly infectious ' bird flu - the UK ’ s chief veterinary officer has announced .
Here 's everything you need to know .
Where have the rules been introduced ?
Christine Middlemiss said England , Scotland and Wales were now an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone ( AIPZ ) , meaning bird keepers will have to legally follow strict new measures .
It comes after a new case of avian flu was discovered in captive birds at a chicken farm in Herefordshire on Wednesday ( November 11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involving captive birds were confirmed in Kent and Cheshire last week , the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) said .
It resulted in 13,500 birds at the farm in Cheshire being culled .
A “ very small ” number of wild geese in Gloucestershire , swans in Devon and a wild goose in Dorset have also been found with avian influenza H5N8 .
Bird flu outbreak UK : What is the risk to the public ?
Public Health England said the risk to the public from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Under the new measures , keepers with more than 500 birds will need to restrict access for non-essential people on their sites .
Workers will need to change clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures and site vehicles will need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly .
So-called backyard owners with smaller numbers of poultry including chickens , ducks and geese are also urged to strengthen their biosecurity measures .
Ms Middlemiss said : “ I have today declared a national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone ( AIPZ ) legislating for actions all bird @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease spreading to more poultry and other domestic birds.
” She added : “ Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands , you are now legally required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements and this is in your interests to do , to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.
” The risk level for avian influenza incursion into wild birds in Great Britain was raised from “ medium ” to “ high ” last week .
The Food Standards Agency said that avian influenzas pose a “ very low ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Properly cooked poultry and poultry products , including eggs , are safe to eat , Defra added .

Here's everything you need to know.
Where have the rules been introduced?
Christine Middlemiss said England, Scotland and Wales were now an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), meaning bird keepers will have to legally follow strict new measures.
It comes after a new case of avian flu was discovered in captive birds at a chicken farm in Herefordshire on Wednesday (November 11).
Two separate, unrelated cases involving captive birds were confirmed in Kent and Cheshire last week, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.
It resulted in 13,500 birds at the farm in Cheshire being culled.
A “very small” number of wild geese in Gloucestershire, swans in Devon and a wild goose in Dorset have also been found with avian influenza H5N8.
Bird flu outbreak UK: What is the risk to the public?
Public Health England said the risk to the public from the virus was “very low”.
Under the new measures, keepers with more than 500 birds will need to restrict access for non-essential people on their sites.
Workers will need to change clothing and footwear before entering bird enclosures and site vehicles will need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
So-called backyard owners with smaller numbers of poultry including chickens, ducks and geese are also urged to strengthen their biosecurity measures.
Ms Middlemiss said: “I have today declared a national Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) legislating for actions all bird keepers must take to help prevent the disease spreading to more poultry and other domestic birds.”
She added: “Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands, you are now legally required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements and this is in your interests to do, to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.”
The risk level for avian influenza incursion into wild birds in Great Britain was raised from “medium” to “high” last week.
The Food Standards Agency said that avian influenzas pose a “very low” food safety risk for UK consumers.
Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat, Defra added.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Kidderminster community rallies to get Meg to LA for treatment

THE family of a 26-year-old Kidderminster woman say they have been overwhelmed by the response to their appeal to raise £150,000 to fly her LA for cancer treatment .
Megan Smith is hoping to have enough money by the end of the month to get to the US to undergo a brand new type of treatment in Los Angeles , which is currently being used for clinical trials .
The former nurse was diagnosed with advanced stage four rectal cancer in 2019 , but has repeatedly defied doctors ' predictions and , after being referred for end of life care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tumour on her bowel was removed .
Megan Smith was diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer in 2019 However , doctors have since told her that chemotherapy is no longer having an effect and her family launched an urgent appeal to fund alternative treatment abroad .
In just a week , a Go Fund Me page has collected nearly £20,000 in donations and the family say they have been overwhelmed by offers of fundraising events and raffles from members of the community .
Megan 's sister Terri said : `` It 's been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and businesses starting different fundraisers to help raise money .
`` There are lots of raffles , one business has donated a full house carpet clean worth £300 which is being auctioned off , another local company donated a bespoke handmade children 's bed , there 's two local Kidderminster guys doing a fight night .
Everyone has been so brilliant .
`` Meg 's been quite emotional about it all - she 's so overwhelmed by how generous everyone 's being .
`` Without all of this support , it just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get this treatment she needs . ''
has now exhausted all cancer treatments available to her in the UK Terri 's 12-year-old son Bailey Wilding will also be taking on a half marathon this Saturday to raise money towards his Auntie Meg 's treatment and has already collected nearly £2,000 in sponsors .
Megan and her family are now in the process of applying for the relevant emergency visas to get her to America in time , and are hoping to at least raise £50,000 of the £150,000 total to start the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We ’ ve got ball rolling with everything now .
Even if we ca n't raise the full £150,000 before we go , which will pay for the full six months of treatment , the travel and accommodation , if we can aim to get £50,000 we can at least get her there and get the treatment started . ''

Megan Smith is hoping to have enough money by the end of the month to get to the US to undergo a brand new type of treatment in Los Angeles, which is currently being used for clinical trials.
The former nurse was diagnosed with advanced stage four rectal cancer in 2019, but has repeatedly defied doctors' predictions and, after being referred for end of life care in August last year, an inoperable tumour on her bowel was removed.
Megan Smith was diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer in 2019
However, doctors have since told her that chemotherapy is no longer having an effect and her family launched an urgent appeal to fund alternative treatment abroad.
In just a week, a Go Fund Me page has collected nearly £20,000 in donations and the family say they have been overwhelmed by offers of fundraising events and raffles from members of the community.
Megan's sister Terri said: "It's been amazing. We've had so many people and businesses starting different fundraisers to help raise money.
"There are lots of raffles, one business has donated a full house carpet clean worth £300 which is being auctioned off, another local company donated a bespoke handmade children's bed, there's two local Kidderminster guys doing a fight night. Everyone has been so brilliant.
"Meg's been quite emotional about it all - she's so overwhelmed by how generous everyone's being.
"Without all of this support, it just wouldn’t be possible for her to get this treatment she needs."
has now exhausted all cancer treatments available to her in the UK
Terri's 12-year-old son Bailey Wilding will also be taking on a half marathon this Saturday to raise money towards his Auntie Meg's treatment and has already collected nearly £2,000 in sponsors.
Megan and her family are now in the process of applying for the relevant emergency visas to get her to America in time, and are hoping to at least raise £50,000 of the £150,000 total to start the treatment once she arrives.
Terri said: "We’ve got ball rolling with everything now. Even if we can't raise the full £150,000 before we go, which will pay for the full six months of treatment, the travel and accommodation, if we can aim to get £50,000 we can at least get her there and get the treatment started."
To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/please-help-save-my-26-year-old-sisters-life.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-13--Tesco speak out after surge in demand for Christmas delivery slots from shoppers

Tesco have spoken out following a surge in demand from online shoppers for their Christmas delivery slots .
The supermarket chain released the delivery slots for groceries at 7am this morning ( Friday , November 13 ) on their website , and swiftly activated a 'virtual queueing system ' to manage the high demand from customers .
What has the reaction been from shoppers ?
Many took to social media to share their frustration after being forced to wait for more than an hour in order to book a slot .
One Twitter user said : `` What an absolute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years , have delivery saver .
Went on at 6.45 ( slots were open when we had been told they would open at 7 ?
? )
been in the queue for 2 hours and 20 minutes .
What is happening ?
Should I just shop elsewhere this Christmas ? ''
Another Twitter user posted : `` Would be helpful to actually see that you are a number of number in the Q. I know other supermarkets do this .
I have to say Tesco your online technology is behind other supermarkets .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Another user on Twitter shared their disappointment , they said : `` I ’ ve been waiting since 6.58am & just been booted out of the app .
I am a loyal delivery saver customer and a key worker .
Not being able to book a Christmas delivery slot has huge implications for me .
I am not impressed . ''
The supermarket chain quickly responded to concerns from shoppers over their 'virtual queueing system ' with a short statement on Twitter .
It read : `` We ’ re currently seeing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website and app so are temporarily limiting the number of people using it .
`` Please wait and keep the website/app open and you ’ ll be put through automatically .
We ’ re sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience . ''
What did Tesco say ?
Following the incident , a Tesco spokesperson told us : “ Demand for online slots over the festive period is high , and we have more slots this Christmas than ever before .
`` We experienced high volumes of traffic to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temporarily limited the number of customers using it .
`` We 've now removed the waiting room and customers will be able to log straight on .
`` We 're sorry for any inconvenience this caused and would like to reassure customers that there are still slots available for home delivery and Click+Collect over the Christmas period . ''

The supermarket chain released the delivery slots for groceries at 7am this morning (Friday, November 13) on their website, and swiftly activated a 'virtual queueing system' to manage the high demand from customers.
What has the reaction been from shoppers?
Many took to social media to share their frustration after being forced to wait for more than an hour in order to book a slot.
One Twitter user said: "What an absolute joke. Been a delivery customer for years, have delivery saver. Went on at 6.45 (slots were open when we had been told they would open at 7??) been in the queue for 2 hours and 20 minutes. What is happening? Should I just shop elsewhere this Christmas?"
Another Twitter user posted: "Would be helpful to actually see that you are a number of number in the Q. I know other supermarkets do this. I have to say Tesco your online technology is behind other supermarkets. Been waiting for over an hour."
Another user on Twitter shared their disappointment, they said: "I’ve been waiting since 6.58am & just been booted out of the app. I am a loyal delivery saver customer and a key worker. Not being able to book a Christmas delivery slot has huge implications for me. I am not impressed."
The supermarket chain quickly responded to concerns from shoppers over their 'virtual queueing system' with a short statement on Twitter. It read: "We’re currently seeing a high number of visits to our website and app so are temporarily limiting the number of people using it.
"Please wait and keep the website/app open and you’ll be put through automatically. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience."
What did Tesco say?
Following the incident, a Tesco spokesperson told us: “Demand for online slots over the festive period is high, and we have more slots this Christmas than ever before.
"We experienced high volumes of traffic to our website and Groceries app this morning and temporarily limited the number of customers using it.
"We've now removed the waiting room and customers will be able to log straight on.
"We're sorry for any inconvenience this caused and would like to reassure customers that there are still slots available for home delivery and Click+Collect over the Christmas period."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-14--Aldi launches new click and collect service in Kidderminster

ALDI is launching click and collect services in Kidderminster for the first time after extending its trial to the store in Silverwoods Way .
The extension will bring the total number of stores trialling the new service to 21 after the supermarket began testing it in parts of Staffordshire and the East Midlands in September .
Customers can now order from a full range of groceries online then collect them in pre-booked one-hour collection slots .
On arrival at dedicated click and collect points in the store car park , customers will be able to have their shopping brought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with social distancing rules .
Aldi is set to extend its trial to over 200 additional stores by Christmas .
Giles Hurley , chief executive officer at Aldi , said : “ Extending this trial is about providing thousands more of our existing customers with another convenient way to shop with us , while also making Aldi accessible for many others who may not have shopped with us before.
” As well as click and collect , Aldi is also trialling a rapid delivery service in partnership with Deliveroo .
Customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midlands , London , Cambridge and Greater Manchester can order from a range of over 300 Aldi products and have them delivered to their doorstep in as little as 30 minutes .

The extension will bring the total number of stores trialling the new service to 21 after the supermarket began testing it in parts of Staffordshire and the East Midlands in September.
Customers can now order from a full range of groceries online then collect them in pre-booked one-hour collection slots.
On arrival at dedicated click and collect points in the store car park, customers will be able to have their shopping brought to their cars by Aldi colleagues contact-free, in line with social distancing rules.
Aldi is set to extend its trial to over 200 additional stores by Christmas.
Giles Hurley, chief executive officer at Aldi, said: “Extending this trial is about providing thousands more of our existing customers with another convenient way to shop with us, while also making Aldi accessible for many others who may not have shopped with us before.”
As well as click and collect, Aldi is also trialling a rapid delivery service in partnership with Deliveroo.
Customers living near selected stores in the East Midlands, London, Cambridge and Greater Manchester can order from a range of over 300 Aldi products and have them delivered to their doorstep in as little as 30 minutes.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-14--Stourport and Redditch safety scheme for abuse victims

More help is on hand for domestic abuse victims in north Worcestershire with special safe places being set up in Stourport and Redditch .
And the fear is that extra support will be needed as abuse cases have rocketed under lockdown .
The move is part of a pilot project being run in the county which will then be rolled out across the country .
TSB Bank will provide special help for abuse victims at four branches across Worcestershire .
As well as Stourport and Redditch , there will also be new Safe Places in their buildings at Worcester and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with West Mercia Police to provide easier access to help .
The safe places will allow abuse victims to phone a helpline , contact a support service or talk to a friend or family member .
The Safe Spaces scheme is run by charity Hestia , who are worried that domestic abuse is on the rise across the UK and , as England enters a new lockdown , the need for extra support could be even more critical .
Figures from the charity showed a near 40 % ¹ increase in people trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown and the charity anticipates similar future demand – as three thousand victims sought help between April and September this year .
Domestic abuse includes psychological , physical and financial abuse , all of which can have devastating consequences for the victim .
The TSB pilot across its Worcestershire branches will run for 12 weeks .
Specialist training has been given to a number of TSB employees in the branches who will be available to advise and assist on numerous issues including financial coercion , human trafficking and other criminal activity .
Victims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ telephone calls , speak to a trained staff member , and get a referral to the West Mercia police service , with whom TSB is also partnered .
The support is available to both TSB customers and members of the general public .
Police say domestic abuse victims experience an average of fifty assaults before seeking help .

And the fear is that extra support will be needed as abuse cases have rocketed under lockdown.
The move is part of a pilot project being run in the county which will then be rolled out across the country.
TSB Bank will provide special help for abuse victims at four branches across Worcestershire.
As well as Stourport and Redditch, there will also be new Safe Places in their buildings at Worcester and Tenbury Wells.
TSB have linked up with West Mercia Police to provide easier access to help.
The safe places will allow abuse victims to phone a helpline, contact a support service or talk to a friend or family member.
The Safe Spaces scheme is run by charity Hestia, who are worried that domestic abuse is on the rise across the UK and, as England enters a new lockdown, the need for extra support could be even more critical.
Figures from the charity showed a near 40%¹ increase in people trying to access specialist support during the first lockdown and the charity anticipates similar future demand – as three thousand victims sought help between April and September this year.
Domestic abuse includes psychological, physical and financial abuse, all of which can have devastating consequences for the victim.
The TSB pilot across its Worcestershire branches will run for 12 weeks.
Specialist training has been given to a number of TSB employees in the branches who will be available to advise and assist on numerous issues including financial coercion, human trafficking and other criminal activity.
Victims can use a private room to make telephone calls, speak to a trained staff member, and get a referral to the West Mercia police service, with whom TSB is also partnered. The support is available to both TSB customers and members of the general public.
Police say domestic abuse victims experience an average of fifty assaults before seeking help.