kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Universal Credit: When and why your payments could be cut in 2021

Universal Credit payments are set to be cut in 2021 - prompting charities to warn that millions could lose out on a 'lifeline ' payment .
Charities including the Joseph Rowntree Foundation , Barnado 's and the Child Poverty Action Group have implored the government to extend the weekly £20 increase to Universal Credit payments beyond April 2021 or risk plunging millions into poverty .
When and why was an increase introduced ?
The increase , first introduced in April 2020 , was intended to help some of the UK ’ s poorest individuals and families through the coronavirus crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ income through loss of work or furlough .
As of April 6 , Universal Credit recipients saw their standard allowance in Working Tax Credit and Universal Credit increased by £20 per week on top of planned annual uprating , representing a monthly raise for a single claimant over 25 from £317.82 to £409.89 .
The £20 increase was only introduced as a year-long measure , however , and is set to be cut back to previous levels in April 2021 .
What will the impact of withdrawing payment be ?
Along with others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calling on the chancellor to make the temporary rise permanent .
Some 50 food bank providers , children ’ s charities , benefit and debt advisors , and disability groups have signed a letter imploring the government to extend the £20 increase to avoid plunging the poorest into deeper poverty .
The letter also asks the government to extend the increase to claimants of legacy benefits , who are currently excluded from the raise .
`` Falling incomes and rising costs throughout the pandemic have put families under immense financial pressure , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that has enabled many of them to keep their heads above water and has stopped us seeing a marked surge in poverty levels , '' reads one part of the letter .
`` However , if the uplift ends in April 2021 , this good work risks being undermined . ''
Under modelling by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation , an estimated 16 million people will face an overnight drop in income next April , representing a loss of around £1,040 a year .
They say the drop will see 700,000 more people pushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A further 500,000 in poverty will be plunged into “ deep poverty ” , says the Joseph Rowntree Foundation .
“ Deep poverty ” is defined by those who are over 50 % below the poverty line .
`` We are therefore urging you to make the uplift permanent and stop families being cut adrift whilst they need help to stay afloat , '' the letter adds .
The warning comes just a week after a similar caution from think tank the Resolution Foundation .
The foundation pointed out that a rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardship felt by those losing out on the extra £20 per week .
Will the measure be extended ?
Chancellor Rishi Runak recently outlined his Winter Economy Plan , but no mention of an extension was included .
At the time of writing , there are no signs the increase will be extended beyond April 2021 .

Charities including the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Barnado's and the Child Poverty Action Group have implored the government to extend the weekly £20 increase to Universal Credit payments beyond April 2021 or risk plunging millions into poverty.
When and why was an increase introduced?
The increase, first introduced in April 2020, was intended to help some of the UK’s poorest individuals and families through the coronavirus crisis as many took a hit to their income through loss of work or furlough.
As of April 6, Universal Credit recipients saw their standard allowance in Working Tax Credit and Universal Credit increased by £20 per week on top of planned annual uprating, representing a monthly raise for a single claimant over 25 from £317.82 to £409.89.
The £20 increase was only introduced as a year-long measure, however, and is set to be cut back to previous levels in April 2021.
What will the impact of withdrawing payment be?
Along with others, The Joseph Rowntree Foundation is now calling on the chancellor to make the temporary rise permanent.
Some 50 food bank providers, children’s charities, benefit and debt advisors, and disability groups have signed a letter imploring the government to extend the £20 increase to avoid plunging the poorest into deeper poverty.
The letter also asks the government to extend the increase to claimants of legacy benefits, who are currently excluded from the raise.
"Falling incomes and rising costs throughout the pandemic have put families under immense financial pressure, but the £20 uplift has been a lifeline that has enabled many of them to keep their heads above water and has stopped us seeing a marked surge in poverty levels," reads one part of the letter.
"However, if the uplift ends in April 2021, this good work risks being undermined."
Under modelling by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, an estimated 16 million people will face an overnight drop in income next April, representing a loss of around £1,040 a year.
They say the drop will see 700,000 more people pushed into poverty, including some 300,000 children.
A further 500,000 in poverty will be plunged into “deep poverty”, says the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. “Deep poverty” is defined by those who are over 50% below the poverty line.
"We are therefore urging you to make the uplift permanent and stop families being cut adrift whilst they need help to stay afloat," the letter adds.
The warning comes just a week after a similar caution from think tank the Resolution Foundation.
The foundation pointed out that a rise in unemployment next April would add to hardship felt by those losing out on the extra £20 per week.
Will the measure be extended?
Chancellor Rishi Runak recently outlined his Winter Economy Plan, but no mention of an extension was included.
At the time of writing, there are no signs the increase will be extended beyond April 2021.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Kidderminster magistrates: Man fined for damaging ornaments

A Bewdley man has ended up with a court bill of nearly £2,500 after deliberately damaging someone else 's ornaments .
Audey Loveridge , aged 43 , of Riverside Caravan Park , Greenacres Lane , Dowles Road , denied damaging several ornaments belonging to Gary Dowdeswell , but was found guilty .
He was fined £375 and ordered to pay £1,760 compensation , £300 prosecution costs and £37 to the victim services fund .
A Stourport man who admitted nine theft charges , including stealing a TV , bicycle , chocolate and meat has been placed on curfew under electronic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied two further theft charges and magistrates adjourned those cases .
Lander , aged 41 , of Minster Road , admitted stealing : Coffee worth £121.88 , belonging to B & M store Kidderminster ; meat worth £120 from to Marks and Spencer , Kidderminster ; washing powder and chocolate from Spar ; a tv from Tesco ; cheese from the Co-op at Stourport ; six joints of beef from Aldi ; A B & Q pressure washer ; more coffee from B & M ; trays of chocolate from the Co-op .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ compensation .
Patrick Joseph Evans , aged 31 , of Exeter Close , Kidderminster , was ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid voluntary work after he admitted threatening words or behaviour to Gary Swain .
Evans had changed his plea from the original not guilty .
He was ordered to pay £300 compensation and £95 towards victim services .

Audey Loveridge, aged 43, of Riverside Caravan Park, Greenacres Lane, Dowles Road, denied damaging several ornaments belonging to Gary Dowdeswell, but was found guilty.
He was fined £375 and ordered to pay £1,760 compensation, £300 prosecution costs and £37 to the victim services fund.
Also at Kidderminster Magistrates Court:
A Stourport man who admitted nine theft charges, including stealing a TV, bicycle, chocolate and meat has been placed on curfew under electronic monitoring for eight weeks.
Simon Lander denied two further theft charges and magistrates adjourned those cases.
Lander, aged 41, of Minster Road, admitted stealing: Coffee worth £121.88, belonging to B&M store Kidderminster; meat worth £120 from to Marks and Spencer, Kidderminster; washing powder and chocolate from Spar; a tv from Tesco; cheese from the Co-op at Stourport; six joints of beef from Aldi; A B&Q pressure washer; more coffee from B&M; trays of chocolate from the Co-op.
He was ordered to pay £367.12 in compensation.
Patrick Joseph Evans, aged 31, of Exeter Close, Kidderminster, was ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid voluntary work after he admitted threatening words or behaviour to Gary Swain.
Evans had changed his plea from the original not guilty.
He was ordered to pay £300 compensation and £95 towards victim services.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Kidderminster shops and flats at Carlton House up for auction

EIGHT retail units and 15 flats will go up for auction in Kidderminster town centre later this month .
Carlton House , which features eight retail units and the 15 apartments above , is being sold through Bond Wolfe Auctions with a guide price of £1.35 million .
Auctioneers say there has already been a lot of interest in the property and its other commercial lots .
Ian Tudor , Bond Wolfe ’ s managing director , said : “ Not only are we witnessing an increase in the number of commercial lots coming to the auction market , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on and an increasing numbers of enthusiastic buyers entering the market , we are starting to witness some sales well in excess of expectations .
“ We are already receiving healthy interest in the lots on offer in our forthcoming October auction , and providing advice to potential vendors for our December sale.
” The apartments at Carlton House comprise a mixture of studio , one-bedroom and two-bedroom accommodation , which has recently been refurbished .
The development is currently 91 per cent occupied , producing a rental income of £149,280 .
Ian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , post lockdown , never has the certainty of a sale by auction been more attractive .
Once the hammer falls , the contract is binding , contracts are exchanged immediately and prices can not be renegotiated .
“ This is proving particularly popular with vendors of commercial property who require the comfort of a guaranteed sale in order to plan and shape future business decisions , and this is leading to an increased number of commercial lots on offer by auction .
“ In addition , the recent changes in planning use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they now have various options available to them , for example to convert retail premises into cafes and restaurants without the need for planning permission , which in a post-Covid world , provides good long term alternative options.
” Carlton House has frontages onto Oxford Street , Marlborough Street and Worcester Street .
The auction will be live-streamed on the Bond Wolfe website on Wednesday , October 28 at 9am , with remote bidding by proxy , telephone or internet .
Interested buyers must pre-register to bid no later than noon on Tuesday @ @ @ @

Carlton House, which features eight retail units and the 15 apartments above, is being sold through Bond Wolfe Auctions with a guide price of £1.35 million.
Auctioneers say there has already been a lot of interest in the property and its other commercial lots.
Ian Tudor, Bond Wolfe’s managing director, said: “Not only are we witnessing an increase in the number of commercial lots coming to the auction market, with more vendors committed to move certain assets on and an increasing numbers of enthusiastic buyers entering the market, we are starting to witness some sales well in excess of expectations.
“We are already receiving healthy interest in the lots on offer in our forthcoming October auction, and providing advice to potential vendors for our December sale.”
The apartments at Carlton House comprise a mixture of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom accommodation, which has recently been refurbished. The development is currently 91 per cent occupied, producing a rental income of £149,280.
Commercial tenants include Prestige Tanning House, Toner Estates and Happy Staffie Rescue.
Ian said: “During these uncertain times, post lockdown, never has the certainty of a sale by auction been more attractive. Once the hammer falls, the contract is binding, contracts are exchanged immediately and prices cannot be renegotiated.
“This is proving particularly popular with vendors of commercial property who require the comfort of a guaranteed sale in order to plan and shape future business decisions, and this is leading to an increased number of commercial lots on offer by auction.
“In addition, the recent changes in planning use classes are boosting buyers’ confidence as they now have various options available to them, for example to convert retail premises into cafes and restaurants without the need for planning permission, which in a post-Covid world, provides good long term alternative options.”
Carlton House has frontages onto Oxford Street, Marlborough Street and Worcester Street.
The auction will be live-streamed on the Bond Wolfe website on Wednesday, October 28 at 9am, with remote bidding by proxy, telephone or internet. Interested buyers must pre-register to bid no later than noon on Tuesday, October 27.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest could force county into tier two lockdown

TOUGHER coronavirus restrictions could be introduced in Worcestershire as early as next week because of the high rate of infections in Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest .
Worcestershire health bosses have been summoned by the government to discuss moving the county into the second tier of restrictions .
This would mean bans on visiting other people ’ s homes and tighter restrictions for pubs and restaurants .
The locations with the highest rates of infection are Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove , and these areas could cause all of Worcestershire to be put in the ‘ high ’ category – the middle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next week .
Worcestershire ’ s director of public health , Dr Kathryn Cobain , is understood to be saying to the government that just Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest should have the higher restrictions , not the whole county .
Despite lower infection rates , areas such as Worcester and Malvern Hills would be included in the high category , as would Wychavon even though the number of cases is actually falling there .
A message sent out to councillors in Malvern confirms Dr Cobain is “ arguing strongly ” that Worcestershire should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its infection rates on its own , rather than have a county-wide set of restrictions .
Currently , Wychavon and Malvern Hills case numbers are low in relation to the rest of the county and other areas already in tier two such as Birmingham and Manchester .
In Wychavon , it is 47 cases per 100,000 people and for Malvern Hills 70 per 100,000 in the last seven days .
In contrast , Bromsgrove has an infection rate of 121 per 100,000 Wyre Forest has a rate of 94 .
The county ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for the past seven days , stands at 74 per 100,000 .
The main difference between tier one and tier two is that households are banned from mixing indoors .
This also impacts the hospitality industry , with businesses ineligible for additional financial support in tier two .
Worcester MP Robin Walker said the best way for residents to avoid being placed in a higher tier is to continue observing the rule of six and social distancing .
He said : “ Just because we are currently in the lowest tier , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk .
We need to make sure whatever happens we continue following the rules , as that is the best way to avoid a higher level of restrictions.
” West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin confirmed she had been in discussions with the county and district councils this week about the likelihood of the county moving up a tier .
She said she would “ strongly resist ” a full-county change , adding : “ I have had briefings from the local councils regarding proposals to change our local Covid regulations owing to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the county .
“ I would strongly resist this change as the incidence of cases in my constituency remains comparatively low and I have passed on the message to the county council that I will happily make that case to the minister if I am asked .
“ Worcestershire people have taken extraordinary steps over recent months to help slow the spread of the virus and help to take the pressure off the NHS .
“ With winter drawing in , there are clearly heightened risks but I am confident that with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place we can manage any hike in positive cases while protecting the NHS , the economy and people ’ s livelihoods.
” Malvern Hills district councillor Paul Bennett said : “ Malvern Hills is potentially being dragged into a higher tier of Covid restrictions because of being linked with Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest just because of the county boundary .
How can that be right ?
We have separate figures for each district council and yet after seven months , the system set up for restrictions ignores the facts and is not fit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way businesses in Malvern , Upton or Tenbury should shut because of this .
“ I fully support any carefully planned and necessary closures but not because of the figures being higher in Bromsgrove .
That does not make any sense at all here.
” Under the new tier system , most local authorities are in the medium tier , which consists of the existing lockdown measures including the rule of six and 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants .
The next level up includes most areas which are currently subject to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson said areas where the number of cases rises the most rapidly will be put into the ‘ very high ’ top tier .
In this tier , restrictions on social mixing will be imposed , as well as closing pubs and restaurants .
Schools , workplaces and shops will remain open in this case .

Worcestershire health bosses have been summoned by the government to discuss moving the county into the second tier of restrictions.
This would mean bans on visiting other people’s homes and tighter restrictions for pubs and restaurants.
The locations with the highest rates of infection are Wyre Forest and Bromsgrove, and these areas could cause all of Worcestershire to be put in the ‘high’ category – the middle of the three tier system – from next week.
Worcestershire’s director of public health, Dr Kathryn Cobain, is understood to be saying to the government that just Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest should have the higher restrictions, not the whole county.
Despite lower infection rates, areas such as Worcester and Malvern Hills would be included in the high category, as would Wychavon even though the number of cases is actually falling there.
A message sent out to councillors in Malvern confirms Dr Cobain is “arguing strongly” that Worcestershire should be given the breathing room to reduce its infection rates on its own, rather than have a county-wide set of restrictions.
Currently, Wychavon and Malvern Hills case numbers are low in relation to the rest of the county and other areas already in tier two such as Birmingham and Manchester.
In Wychavon, it is 47 cases per 100,000 people and for Malvern Hills 70 per 100,000 in the last seven days.
In contrast, Bromsgrove has an infection rate of 121 per 100,000 Wyre Forest has a rate of 94.
The county’s rate overall continues to rise and, for the past seven days, stands at 74 per 100,000.
The main difference between tier one and tier two is that households are banned from mixing indoors.
This also impacts the hospitality industry, with businesses ineligible for additional financial support in tier two.
Worcester MP Robin Walker said the best way for residents to avoid being placed in a higher tier is to continue observing the rule of six and social distancing.
He said: “Just because we are currently in the lowest tier, that does not mean there is no risk. We need to make sure whatever happens we continue following the rules, as that is the best way to avoid a higher level of restrictions.”
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin confirmed she had been in discussions with the county and district councils this week about the likelihood of the county moving up a tier.
She said she would “strongly resist” a full-county change, adding: “I have had briefings from the local councils regarding proposals to change our local Covid regulations owing to a serious rise in cases in the north of the county.
“I would strongly resist this change as the incidence of cases in my constituency remains comparatively low and I have passed on the message to the county council that I will happily make that case to the minister if I am asked.
“Worcestershire people have taken extraordinary steps over recent months to help slow the spread of the virus and help to take the pressure off the NHS.
“With winter drawing in, there are clearly heightened risks but I am confident that with a strong local resilience plan already in place we can manage any hike in positive cases while protecting the NHS, the economy and people’s livelihoods.”
Malvern Hills district councillor Paul Bennett said: “Malvern Hills is potentially being dragged into a higher tier of Covid restrictions because of being linked with Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest just because of the county boundary. How can that be right? We have separate figures for each district council and yet after seven months, the system set up for restrictions ignores the facts and is not fit for purpose.
“There is no way businesses in Malvern, Upton or Tenbury should shut because of this.
“I fully support any carefully planned and necessary closures but not because of the figures being higher in Bromsgrove. That does not make any sense at all here.”
Under the new tier system, most local authorities are in the medium tier, which consists of the existing lockdown measures including the rule of six and 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants.
The next level up includes most areas which are currently subject to local lockdown restrictions.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said areas where the number of cases rises the most rapidly will be put into the ‘very high’ top tier.
In this tier, restrictions on social mixing will be imposed, as well as closing pubs and restaurants. Schools, workplaces and shops will remain open in this case.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Wyre Forest residents warned about fraudsters calling them as police

FRAUDSTERS are back in action claiming to be from the police and banks in order to extort money from the vulnerable in Worcestershire .
West Mercia Police have received several reports of residents receiving calls from someone giving the name Mark Andrews claiming to be from the force and trying obtain money .
Detective Inspector Kirsty Hickling said : “ No West Mercia Police Officer will ever contact you and request you withdraw or transfer funds for any purpose , regardless of what unit they are from or role they claim to perform .
“ There are many aliases used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest one we have been aware of and we would ask members of the public to share this message that if you are called by someone using this name and claiming to be from the police it is fraudulent .
Anyone who receives these calls should call us and let us know and pass on the information to their friends and relatives.
” '' Anyone who receives these calls hang up and report it immediately to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040 . ''
If the crime is still in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have recently provided bank details or handed over cards or cash , or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items , residents should call the police to report this on 101 .

West Mercia Police have received several reports of residents receiving calls from someone giving the name Mark Andrews claiming to be from the force and trying obtain money.
Detective Inspector Kirsty Hickling said: “No West Mercia Police Officer will ever contact you and request you withdraw or transfer funds for any purpose, regardless of what unit they are from or role they claim to perform.
“There are many aliases used by these fraudsters but Mark Andrews is the latest one we have been aware of and we would ask members of the public to share this message that if you are called by someone using this name and claiming to be from the police it is fraudulent. Anyone who receives these calls should call us and let us know and pass on the information to their friends and relatives.”
"Anyone who receives these calls hang up and report it immediately to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or 0300 123 2040."
If the crime is still in progress, because for example, you have recently provided bank details or handed over cards or cash, or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items, residents should call the police to report this on 101.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Keyless car thefts: Five vital tips to protect your vehicle from criminals

The vital tips to protect a vehicle from a keyless car theft have been revealed .
It comes as car thefts rise across the country , with high-tech modern cars increasingly targeted by thieves using sophisticated new methods of getting away with valuable vehicles .
Government data showed that vehicle thefts in 2018/19 reached a nine-year high , with more than 114,000 vehicles reported as stolen in England and Wales alone over the 12-month period .
Figures from comparison site GoCompare suggest that losing a car to theft adds more than £600 to a driver ’ s insurance costs on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ losing their car .
Much of the rise in thefts has been attributed to criminals targeting new cars with keyless entry systems which are vulnerable to relay attacks or “ key cloning ” .
Despite this form of theft being an increasingly common method employed by criminals , 42 per cent of UK drivers don ’ t understand what key cloning is or how it works , according to research by GoCompare .
On the surface , keyless car theft is exactly what it sounds like .
Thieves manage to open , start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needing a physical key .
They do this by “ cloning ” the signal from a car ’ s remote key fob in a method known as a relay attack .
This uses two receiver/transmitters which intercept then relay the signal from the key .
The first unit intercepts the unique signal from the key , even through a house wall , and transmits it to the second unit held close to the car .
This sends the cloned signal to the car , fooling the security system into thinking the key is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and started .
Manufacturers have been criticised for not addressing this vulnerability and while some , such as Ford and Land Rover have modified their technology to thwart relay or cloning attacks , others have yet to act .
To help drivers protect their vehicles against such attacks GoCompare spoke to car thief turned security expert Michael Fraser for advice on how to make your car a hard target for criminals .
How to protect your car from a relay attack • Use the tech in your favour : Consider buying a signal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - the same fabric used by the likes of law enforcement - automatically blocks any wireless signals such as keyless car cloning devices , as well as wifi and mobile phone signals .
When drivers place their keys in these pouches , criminals will find it tricky to clone their key fobs .
• Protect the wheel : Used for generations and one of the few deterrents that still works today ; a wheel lock is an immediate red flag for a potential car thief .
• Got a garage ?
Then use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is .
Build a fortress for your car .
• A tidy car is a safe car : Don ’ t draw attention to your car and fill it with half the contents of your house .
Taking your phone or sat-nav out is a wise move .
• Check it ’ s locked : Don ’ t make a burglar 's job an easy one .
It ’ s now common for cars ’ wing mirrors to be folded in when locked , so it ’ s easy for savvy thiefs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other advice is there ?
Michael added : “ Criminals are very tech-savvy , especially their methods of stealing cars with keyless car technology .
`` If you 're willing to splash out thousands on a new motor , don ’ t be stingy when it comes to protecting it .
`` Invest in the most advanced technology such as signal blocking pouches , motion sensor cameras for your car or even a good old-fashioned wheel lock .
All of these methods help deter car thieves and leave your car safe.
” Ian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : “ This data is a stark reminder of why it is so important for drivers to ensure they have the right insurance policy in place for them , so they can avoid making the already difficult situation of having a car stolen even worse through preventable stresses .
“ Keyless car theft is a serious issue , and we are looking at ways we can help motorists innovatively combat keyless car crime .
”

It comes as car thefts rise across the country, with high-tech modern cars increasingly targeted by thieves using sophisticated new methods of getting away with valuable vehicles.
Government data showed that vehicle thefts in 2018/19 reached a nine-year high, with more than 114,000 vehicles reported as stolen in England and Wales alone over the 12-month period.
Figures from comparison site GoCompare suggest that losing a car to theft adds more than £600 to a driver’s insurance costs on top of the stress and inconvenience of losing their car.
Much of the rise in thefts has been attributed to criminals targeting new cars with keyless entry systems which are vulnerable to relay attacks or “key cloning”.
Despite this form of theft being an increasingly common method employed by criminals, 42 per cent of UK drivers don’t understand what key cloning is or how it works, according to research by GoCompare.
What is keyless car theft?
On the surface, keyless car theft is exactly what it sounds like. Thieves manage to open, start and drive away in a car without needing a physical key.
They do this by “cloning” the signal from a car’s remote key fob in a method known as a relay attack. This uses two receiver/transmitters which intercept then relay the signal from the key.
The first unit intercepts the unique signal from the key, even through a house wall, and transmits it to the second unit held close to the car.
This sends the cloned signal to the car, fooling the security system into thinking the key is nearby and allowing it to be unlocked and started.
Manufacturers have been criticised for not addressing this vulnerability and while some, such as Ford and Land Rover have modified their technology to thwart relay or cloning attacks, others have yet to act.
To help drivers protect their vehicles against such attacks GoCompare spoke to car thief turned security expert Michael Fraser for advice on how to make your car a hard target for criminals.
How to protect your car from a relay attack
Use the tech in your favour: Consider buying a signal blocking pouch. The thin metallic lining - the same fabric used by the likes of law enforcement - automatically blocks any wireless signals such as keyless car cloning devices, as well as wifi and mobile phone signals. When drivers place their keys in these pouches, criminals will find it tricky to clone their key fobs.
Consider buying a signal blocking pouch. The thin metallic lining - the same fabric used by the likes of law enforcement - automatically blocks any wireless signals such as keyless car cloning devices, as well as wifi and mobile phone signals. When drivers place their keys in these pouches, criminals will find it tricky to clone their key fobs. Protect the wheel: Used for generations and one of the few deterrents that still works today; a wheel lock is an immediate red flag for a potential car thief.
Used for generations and one of the few deterrents that still works today; a wheel lock is an immediate red flag for a potential car thief. Got a garage? Then use it: Sounds simple right? Well it is. Build a fortress for your car.
Sounds simple right? Well it is. Build a fortress for your car. A tidy car is a safe car: Don’t draw attention to your car and fill it with half the contents of your house. Taking your phone or sat-nav out is a wise move.
Don’t draw attention to your car and fill it with half the contents of your house. Taking your phone or sat-nav out is a wise move. Check it’s locked: Don’t make a burglar's job an easy one. It’s now common for cars’ wing mirrors to be folded in when locked, so it’s easy for savvy thiefs to spot an unlocked target.
What other advice is there?
Michael added: “Criminals are very tech-savvy, especially their methods of stealing cars with keyless car technology.
"If you're willing to splash out thousands on a new motor, don’t be stingy when it comes to protecting it.
"Invest in the most advanced technology such as signal blocking pouches, motion sensor cameras for your car or even a good old-fashioned wheel lock. All of these methods help deter car thieves and leave your car safe.”
Ian Rowlands, director of insurance at GoCompare, said: “This data is a stark reminder of why it is so important for drivers to ensure they have the right insurance policy in place for them, so they can avoid making the already difficult situation of having a car stolen even worse through preventable stresses.
“Keyless car theft is a serious issue, and we are looking at ways we can help motorists innovatively combat keyless car crime.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Covid postcode checker: Check the tier of your area

Boris Johnson has unveiled a new three-tier Covid strategy which divides England into areas of medium , high and very high alert level .
Mr Johnson told MPs that cases nationally had gone up four times in four weeks , there are more coronavirus patients in UK hospitals than on March 23 when the country went into lockdown , and deaths are rising .
Initially , the Liverpool city region was the only area moving into tier three – the most serious “ very high ” alert category – which carry the most severe new restrictions .
The majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the changes will enter the new system at tier two , denoting “ high ” risk .
And the rest of England is in tier one , or “ medium ” alert , which means a continuation of such measures as the rule of six and the 10pm curfew – although some areas , such as London , have been warned they may soon be upgraded to tier two .
The system , however , is subject to change , with the Prime Minister warning that the coming months would “ test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it faces a second wave of Covid cases – here ’ s how you can check the exact restrictions in place for your area .
How can I check what tier my area is in ?
During his announcement , Mr Johnson outlined the ways that people in England could monitor their local measures via “ a postcode search on gov.uk , as well as the NHS Covid-19 app ” .
Initially , this postcode checker was unavaible , but it did eventually go live on Tuesday 13 October and can be accessed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it confirms the local authority of your address and clarifies that “ This area is in Local Covid Alert Level Medium/High/Very High ” as applicable .
Full list of areas in Covid tier 2 and tier 3 On Thursday 15 October , it was announced that London , Essex , Elmbridge , Barrow-in-Furness , York , North East Derbyshire , Erewash and Chesterfield would all move into tier two , having previously been in the lower tier one alert category .
So far this is the only update to the list below , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester and Lancashire potentially joining Liverpool in the most serious category , tier three .
All areas , excluding those listed below What does each tier of the new restrictions mean ?
The first tier applies in areas where national restrictions continue to be in place , which currently means : • All businesses and venues can continue to operate , in a Covid-secure manner , other than those that remain closed in law , such as nightclubs .
• The 10pm curfew on businesses selling food or drink , including bars , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They can still operate takeaway and delivery services after 10pm .
• Weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees .
• Organised indoor sport and exercise classes can continue to take place , provided the Rule of six is followed .
• Rule of six remains in place for all other gatherings , indoors or outdoors .
The second tier is applied in areas with a higher level of infections .
The following additional measures are in place : • People must not meet with anybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any indoor setting , whether at home or in a public place including bars and restaurants .
• They can mix with other households outdoors , including in gardens or outdoor hospitality settings and parks , but the group can not exceed six .
• People should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible .
If they need to travel , they should walk or cycle where possible , or to plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport .
The third alert tier applies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infections .
Below is a baseline of measures set by the government for any area in this local alert level .
Consultation with local authorities will determine additional measures : • Pubs and bars will close unless they serve substantial meals operating as if they were a restaurant .
Alcohol served only as part of a meal .
• Indoor gyms and fitness/dance studios , sports facilities , leisure centres , betting shops , adult gaming centres and casinos will close .
Wedding receptions not permitted .
• People can not mix with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes and restaurants , or in private gardens or restaurant outdoor areas , unless they are with members of their support bubble .
They can mix in other outdoor public places like parks , under the rule of six .
• People advised against travel outside their local area or into another Tier 3 area other than for work , education , accessing youth services , or to meet caring responsibilities .
• People advised against staying overnight in another part of the UK if they are resident in a Tier 3 area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tier 3 area if they are resident elsewhere .

Mr Johnson told MPs that cases nationally had gone up four times in four weeks, there are more coronavirus patients in UK hospitals than on March 23 when the country went into lockdown, and deaths are rising.
Initially, the Liverpool city region was the only area moving into tier three – the most serious “very high” alert category – which carry the most severe new restrictions.
The majority of regions subject to local lockdown measures ahead of the changes will enter the new system at tier two, denoting “high” risk.
And the rest of England is in tier one, or “medium” alert, which means a continuation of such measures as the rule of six and the 10pm curfew – although some areas, such as London, have been warned they may soon be upgraded to tier two.
The system, however, is subject to change, with the Prime Minister warning that the coming months would “test the mettle” of the nation as it faces a second wave of Covid cases – here’s how you can check the exact restrictions in place for your area.
How can I check what tier my area is in?
During his announcement, Mr Johnson outlined the ways that people in England could monitor their local measures via “a postcode search on gov.uk, as well as the NHS Covid-19 app”.
Initially, this postcode checker was unavaible, but it did eventually go live on Tuesday 13 October and can be accessed here.
After entering your postcode, it confirms the local authority of your address and clarifies that “This area is in Local Covid Alert Level Medium/High/Very High” as applicable.
Full list of areas in Covid tier 2 and tier 3
On Thursday 15 October, it was announced that London, Essex, Elmbridge, Barrow-in-Furness, York, North East Derbyshire, Erewash and Chesterfield would all move into tier two, having previously been in the lower tier one alert category.
So far this is the only update to the list below, although there has been much confusion about Manchester and Lancashire potentially joining Liverpool in the most serious category, tier three.
Local Covid Alert Level: Medium
England
All areas, excluding those listed below
Local Covid Alert Level: High
Cheshire
Cheshire West and Chester
Cheshire East
Greater Manchester
Manchester
Bolton
Bury
Stockport
Tameside
Trafford
Wigan
Salford
Rochdale
Oldham
Warrington
Warrington
Derbyshire
High Peak – the wards of:
Tintwistle
Padfield
Dinting
St John’s
Old Glossop
Whitfield
Simmondley
Gamesley
Howard Town
Hadfield South
Hadfield North
Lancashire
Blackpool
Blackburn with Darwen
Burnley
Chorley
Fylde
Hyndburn
Lancaster
Pendle
Preston
Ribble Valley
Rossendale
South Ribble
West Lancashire
Wyre
West Yorkshire
Leeds
Bradford
Kirklees
Calderdale
Wakefield
South Yorkshire
Barnsley
Rotherham
Doncaster
Sheffield
North East
Newcastle
South Tyneside
North Tyneside
Gateshead
Sunderland
Durham
Northumberland
Tees Valley
Middlesbrough
Redcar and Cleveland
Stockton-on-Tees
Darlington
Hartlepool
West Midlands
Birmingham
Sandwell
Solihull
Wolverhampton
Walsall
Leicester
Leicester
Oadby and Wigston
Nottingham
Nottinghamshire
Nottingham City
Local Covid Alert Level: Very High
Liverpool City Region
Liverpool
Knowsley
Wirral
St Helens
Sefton
Halton
What does each tier of the new restrictions mean?
Tier 1 (Medium)
The first tier applies in areas where national restrictions continue to be in place, which currently means:
All businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a Covid-secure manner, other than those that remain closed in law, such as nightclubs.
The 10pm curfew on businesses selling food or drink, including bars, pubs and restaurants, remains in place. They can still operate takeaway and delivery services after 10pm.
Schools, universities and places of worship remain open.
Weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees.
Organised indoor sport and exercise classes can continue to take place, provided the Rule of six is followed.
Rule of six remains in place for all other gatherings, indoors or outdoors.
Tier 2 (High)
The second tier is applied in areas with a higher level of infections. The following additional measures are in place:
People must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place including bars and restaurants.
They can mix with other households outdoors, including in gardens or outdoor hospitality settings and parks, but the group cannot exceed six.
People should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible. If they need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible, or to plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport.
Schools, universities and places of worship remain open.
Tier 3 (Very High)
The third alert tier applies to areas with a very high level of infections. Below is a baseline of measures set by the government for any area in this local alert level. Consultation with local authorities will determine additional measures:


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--Car crashed into house in Kidderminster

Car crashed into house in Kidderminster

PHOTOS show the damage caused after a car crashed into a house in Kidderminster .
Emergency services were called to Weir Crescent just after 6pm on Thursday , October 15 .
Crews from the Wyre Forest Hub , Droitwich Fire Station and the Urban Search and Rescue Team attended the scene , alongside police , one ambulance and a paramedic officer .
Damage was caused to the wall of the house .
Photo by @ HWFireNCluster On arrival , firefighters discovered a silver car which had come to a stop on a grassy area outside the front of the property @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wall under a bay window .
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service posted on Twitter : `` One car in collision with house , one casualty trapped , extricated by @ HWFireKminster @ HWFireDroitwich .
Building integrity assessed by @ HWFire_USAR , shoring up carried out . ''
Posting pictures of the scene on Twitter , Bromsgrove Fire Station commander Phil Major said : `` Car into house , house came off better , just , and crews from Kidderminster and Droitwich in attendance . ''
The driver of the car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are not believed to be serious .
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said : `` We were called to reports of a car that had crashed into a house on Weir Crescent , Kidderminster at 6.13pm , last night .
`` One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended the scene .
`` On arrival we discovered one patient , a woman , who was the driver of the car .
She was treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Worcester Royal Hospital for further assessment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We were alerted by the ambulance service shortly after 6.15pm after a car had collided with a house in Weir Crescent .
`` The driver of the vehicle was taken to hospital but thankfully her injuries are not believed to be serious .
`` No arrests have been made . ''

Emergency services were called to Weir Crescent just after 6pm on Thursday, October 15.
Crews from the Wyre Forest Hub, Droitwich Fire Station and the Urban Search and Rescue Team attended the scene, alongside police, one ambulance and a paramedic officer.
Damage was caused to the wall of the house. Photo by @HWFireNCluster
On arrival, firefighters discovered a silver car which had come to a stop on a grassy area outside the front of the property after mounting the kerb and crashing into the wall under a bay window.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service posted on Twitter: "One car in collision with house, one casualty trapped, extricated by @HWFireKminster @HWFireDroitwich. Building integrity assessed by @HWFire_USAR, shoring up carried out."
Posting pictures of the scene on Twitter, Bromsgrove Fire Station commander Phil Major said: "Car into house, house came off better, just, and crews from Kidderminster and Droitwich in attendance."
The driver of the car was taken to hospital but her injuries are not believed to be serious.
A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "We were called to reports of a car that had crashed into a house on Weir Crescent, Kidderminster at 6.13pm, last night.
"One ambulance and a paramedic officer attended the scene.
"On arrival we discovered one patient, a woman, who was the driver of the car. She was treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Worcester Royal Hospital for further assessment."
A West Mercia Police spokesman added: "We were alerted by the ambulance service shortly after 6.15pm after a car had collided with a house in Weir Crescent.
"The driver of the vehicle was taken to hospital but thankfully her injuries are not believed to be serious.
"No arrests have been made."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--Stourport GP surgeries to merge a year earlier than planned

TWO doctors ' surgeries in Stourport will be merged together 12 months earlier than planned in an effort to streamline the service offered to patients .
Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre were due to be combined to create the new Stourport Medical Centre in Dunley Road once the build is completed in 2021 .
However , bosses say it has been `` incredibly difficult '' working from two different appointment systems , with staff split between the two sites to cover absences , and have therefore decided to merge the sites a year early on November 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House will become the newly-formed Stourport Medical Centre , but remain operating from the two current buildings until the move .
A spokesman for Wyre Forest Health Partnership said : `` Staff at Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre have been working closely now for a number of years as part of Wyre Forest Health Partnership but the last seven months has brought us closer together - the teamwork has been remarkable .
`` Working together we have been able to maintain services , and have developed new ways of caring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure we continue to provide the best service we can to our patients and look after our staff over the next 12 months whilst waiting for the completion of our new surgery .
`` With this in mind , we have decided to officially merge the two sites now rather than wait until 2021 .
`` From November 2 , Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre will become the newly formed Stourport Medical Centre , based at the two current buildings pending the move .
`` There is a great deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two practices and planning has been under way for some time .
`` Although we will do everything we can to ensure a smooth transition , we may experience some difficulties along the way and hope that you will be understanding and patient with us whilst we adapt to a new way of working as Stourport Medical Centre . ''
Bosses say patients should n't experience many changes initially following the merger .
The doctor they are registered with will remain the same and nurses will remain working across the two sites @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain at York House until the move .
Stourport Health Centre is currently acting as our flu hub but will soon host further clinics for some pre-planned and routine nurse appointments .
More receptionists have been taken on to provide a more efficient service and focus on reducing waiting times .
Patients with online access may be sent new log-in details .
The two separate computer systems holding patients ' medical records will be merged from 12pm on Friday , October 30 .
Bosses say this is a complex process , but assured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and NHS bodies to ensure minimal disruption to services while the work is carried out .
On October 30 , appointments for patients currently registered at Stourport Health Centre will be limited , so people are advised to ensure they have adequate supplies of their usual medications in the lead up to this date .
From this point , the phone number to contact Stourport Medical Centre will be 01299 827171 .
A spokesman for the medical centre said : `` We would like to thank you in advance for your patience through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption this may cause .
`` We see this as a really exciting opportunity to provide an even higher standard of care to the patients of both practices prior to our move to the new purpose built premises next year . ''

Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre were due to be combined to create the new Stourport Medical Centre in Dunley Road once the build is completed in 2021.
However, bosses say it has been "incredibly difficult" working from two different appointment systems, with staff split between the two sites to cover absences, and have therefore decided to merge the sites a year early on November 2.
It means Stourport Health and York House will become the newly-formed Stourport Medical Centre, but remain operating from the two current buildings until the move.
A spokesman for Wyre Forest Health Partnership said: "Staff at Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre have been working closely now for a number of years as part of Wyre Forest Health Partnership but the last seven months has brought us closer together - the teamwork has been remarkable.
"Working together we have been able to maintain services, and have developed new ways of caring for you.
"We have to ensure we continue to provide the best service we can to our patients and look after our staff over the next 12 months whilst waiting for the completion of our new surgery.
"With this in mind, we have decided to officially merge the two sites now rather than wait until 2021.
"From November 2, Stourport Health Centre and York House Medical Centre will become the newly formed Stourport Medical Centre, based at the two current buildings pending the move.
"There is a great deal of work involved in the merger of the two practices and planning has been under way for some time.
"Although we will do everything we can to ensure a smooth transition, we may experience some difficulties along the way and hope that you will be understanding and patient with us whilst we adapt to a new way of working as Stourport Medical Centre."
Bosses say patients shouldn't experience many changes initially following the merger. The doctor they are registered with will remain the same and nurses will remain working across the two sites.
The majority of face-to-face appointments will remain at York House until the move. Stourport Health Centre is currently acting as our flu hub but will soon host further clinics for some pre-planned and routine nurse appointments.
More receptionists have been taken on to provide a more efficient service and focus on reducing waiting times.
Patients with online access may be sent new log-in details.
The two separate computer systems holding patients' medical records will be merged from 12pm on Friday, October 30.
Bosses say this is a complex process, but assured staff will be working with IT suppliers and NHS bodies to ensure minimal disruption to services while the work is carried out.
On October 30, appointments for patients currently registered at Stourport Health Centre will be limited, so people are advised to ensure they have adequate supplies of their usual medications in the lead up to this date.
From this point, the phone number to contact Stourport Medical Centre will be 01299 827171.
A spokesman for the medical centre said: "We would like to thank you in advance for your patience through the merging process and apologise for any disruption this may cause.
"We see this as a really exciting opportunity to provide an even higher standard of care to the patients of both practices prior to our move to the new purpose built premises next year."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--Proposal to move Kidderminster polling station criticised

WYRE Forest District Council has come under scrutiny over plans to move a polling station in Kidderminster , meaning some residents would need to travel further to vote .
A consultation is under way to introduce a polling place at Habberley Social Club , which would see residents who usually vote at Gainsborough House Hotel voting at either Habberley Social Club or Kidderminster Carolians Rugby Football Club .
Some residents who normally cast their vote at the rugby club would see their polling place changed to Habberley Social Club , depending on their postcode .
The consultation follows an initial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future of the Gainsborough House polling station , however ward member for Habberley South , Councillor Tracey Onslow , says residents ' opinions are n't being listened to .
Cllr Onslow says only 10 voters out of the 3,150 registered at Gainsborough polling place responded to the initial survey - three of whom said the station should be moved to the town centre , four said it should stay at Gainsborough and three said it should move to Habberley Estate .
Another eight commenters were in favour of an additional polling station on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Unfortunately , this current consultation is only providing one option for residents to respond to - that the Gainsborough polling station be moved to Habberley Estate for some voters or to Kidderminster Carolians Rugby Football Club for others .
`` This ignores the majority of responses , which were either to leave it and/or to have an additional polling station on the estate . ''
Cllr Onslow added : `` I urge all residents who vote at the Gainsborough Hotel on election days to participate in this consultation .
`` Points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s consultation have not transferred into this next consultation .
`` What I object to is asking residents their opinion and then ignoring it and I have raised this issue with Wyre Forest District Council .
“ For me , it is up to residents where they have their polling station - Habberley , Carolians , Gainsborough or in town - it is wherever it is most suitable for the majority , as decided by a fair process .
`` In the table showing measurements of distance to polling stations , the results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these locations moves the polling stations further away from voters .
`` Again , it is up to local residents to decide and therefore I urge as many voters to participate to ensure a decision can be made with good representation by the community .
`` Also , if the availability of the Gainsborough should change in future , then all possible sites should be consulted on , not just two picked at random . ''
A spokesperson for Wyre Forest District Council said : “ It is normal for polling place reviews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can express their views .
`` We encourage electors to take part in the consultation and let us know whether or not they support the proposal .
`` The full council meeting in December will consider responses to the consultation and will take a decision on whether or not to implement any changes.
” Blakebrook and Habberley South ward member , Councillor Leigh Whitehouse , added : “ This is interesting from the Conservatives .
First and foremost this is a fair proposal , seeking to put a polling station back in to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is worth remembering , under the Conservatives watch , it was ripped out of the estate a few years ago , along with the bus service .
The residents of Habberley , many of which are elderly , have been calling for the polling station back , particularly since their bus service was pulled , leaving them isolated.
” “ On balance , I feel strongly this is a fair and balanced proposal .
I would urge residents across the patch to support it .
Let ’ s make this less about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serve .
`` I would encourage voters to consider moving to postal voting - they are a really convenient way of voting from the comfort of your armchair ” .
People can submit their views on the proposed polling place changes by visiting wyreforestdc.gov.uk/pollingreviews before the November 6 deadline .
Responses can also be submitted in writing to Mike Saunders , Elections Office , Wyre Forest House , Fine Point Way , Kidderminster , DY11 7WF or via email to electoral @ wyreforestdc.gov.uk .

A consultation is under way to introduce a polling place at Habberley Social Club, which would see residents who usually vote at Gainsborough House Hotel voting at either Habberley Social Club or Kidderminster Carolians Rugby Football Club.
Some residents who normally cast their vote at the rugby club would see their polling place changed to Habberley Social Club, depending on their postcode.
The consultation follows an initial public engagement exercise last year over the future of the Gainsborough House polling station, however ward member for Habberley South, Councillor Tracey Onslow, says residents' opinions aren't being listened to.
Cllr Onslow says only 10 voters out of the 3,150 registered at Gainsborough polling place responded to the initial survey - three of whom said the station should be moved to the town centre, four said it should stay at Gainsborough and three said it should move to Habberley Estate.
Another eight commenters were in favour of an additional polling station on the Habberley Estate.
Cllr Onslow said: "Unfortunately, this current consultation is only providing one option for residents to respond to - that the Gainsborough polling station be moved to Habberley Estate for some voters or to Kidderminster Carolians Rugby Football Club for others.
"This ignores the majority of responses, which were either to leave it and/or to have an additional polling station on the estate."
Cllr Onslow added: "I urge all residents who vote at the Gainsborough Hotel on election days to participate in this consultation.
"Points raised by residents in September 2019’s consultation have not transferred into this next consultation.
"What I object to is asking residents their opinion and then ignoring it and I have raised this issue with Wyre Forest District Council.
“For me, it is up to residents where they have their polling station - Habberley, Carolians, Gainsborough or in town - it is wherever it is most suitable for the majority, as decided by a fair process.
"In the table showing measurements of distance to polling stations, the results show that relocating the polling station to these locations moves the polling stations further away from voters.
"Again, it is up to local residents to decide and therefore I urge as many voters to participate to ensure a decision can be made with good representation by the community.
"Also, if the availability of the Gainsborough should change in future, then all possible sites should be consulted on, not just two picked at random."
A spokesperson for Wyre Forest District Council said: “It is normal for polling place reviews to make a proposal on which electors can express their views.
"We encourage electors to take part in the consultation and let us know whether or not they support the proposal.
"The full council meeting in December will consider responses to the consultation and will take a decision on whether or not to implement any changes.”
Blakebrook and Habberley South ward member, Councillor Leigh Whitehouse, added: “This is interesting from the Conservatives. First and foremost this is a fair proposal, seeking to put a polling station back in to Habberley Estate.
“Secondly, it is worth remembering, under the Conservatives watch, it was ripped out of the estate a few years ago, along with the bus service. The residents of Habberley, many of which are elderly, have been calling for the polling station back, particularly since their bus service was pulled, leaving them isolated.”
“On balance, I feel strongly this is a fair and balanced proposal. I would urge residents across the patch to support it. Let’s make this less about the politics and more about the people we serve.
"I would encourage voters to consider moving to postal voting - they are a really convenient way of voting from the comfort of your armchair”.
People can submit their views on the proposed polling place changes by visiting wyreforestdc.gov.uk/pollingreviews before the November 6 deadline.
Responses can also be submitted in writing to Mike Saunders, Elections Office, Wyre Forest House, Fine Point Way, Kidderminster, DY11 7WF or via email to electoral@wyreforestdc.gov.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--Letter: Overgrown Kidderminster churchyard was an eyesore

Note - Since we received the letter published below , the churchyard has been revamped .
Laura Betson , team vicar for Kidderminster West , said graveyard maintenance had stopped temporarily due to the coronavirus pandemic , but assured residents it is now being maintained regularly .
She told The Shuttle : “ We ’ re very sorry for any distress caused by the length of the grass in the graveyard at St John ’ s Church .
`` Although there was a bit of a break due to the Covid restrictions , the graveyard is now maintained regularly .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept longer to encourage local wildlife , but this shouldn ’ t stop anyone being able to visit a particular grave and anyone with concerns should get in touch with the parish office so we can look at what might be possible.
” Madam - I was walking through St.John 's church cemetery in Kidderminster yesterday and I 've got to say it was disgusting .
It was so overgrown .
If you 've got loved ones there and you was disabled or elderly you 'd have no chance of getting to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nothing to do with the covid this has been going on for a while .
Even the soldiers that are there are all overgrown it 's so sad it broke my heart to see it like that .
Where 's the respect gone nobody seems to care anymore .
My daughter and I would have a go at doing it but it 's to much of a big job now .
I spoke to some people who 's loved ones are there they was so angry and upset .

Laura Betson, team vicar for Kidderminster West, said graveyard maintenance had stopped temporarily due to the coronavirus pandemic, but assured residents it is now being maintained regularly.
She told The Shuttle: “We’re very sorry for any distress caused by the length of the grass in the graveyard at St John’s Church.
"Although there was a bit of a break due to the Covid restrictions, the graveyard is now maintained regularly.
"In some areas the grass is kept longer to encourage local wildlife, but this shouldn’t stop anyone being able to visit a particular grave and anyone with concerns should get in touch with the parish office so we can look at what might be possible.”
Madam - I was walking through St.John's church cemetery in Kidderminster yesterday and I've got to say it was disgusting.
It was so overgrown.
If you've got loved ones there and you was disabled or elderly you'd have no chance of getting to the graves to sort them out.
Its nothing to do with the covid this has been going on for a while.
Even the soldiers that are there are all overgrown it's so sad it broke my heart to see it like that.
Where's the respect gone nobody seems to care anymore.
My daughter and I would have a go at doing it but it's to much of a big job now. I spoke to some people who's loved ones are there they was so angry and upset.
Kind regards
Amanda Queenan


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--These are the top scams you need to be aware of

The top online scams in circulation across the UK have been revealed .
While banks and building societies will often refund money lost through scams , it is not always guaranteed and the best way you can ensure your money is safe is to take steps to protect yourself from scams .
We 've put together a list of the most common scams to watch out for .
A cloned website is a replica of an official site that fools people into thinking it is an authentic site and , as a result , they make bank payments , deposit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This type of scam can be easy to fall for and Government , banks , building societies and pension firms websites have all been cloned by scammers .
Often , scammers will send emails or text messages encouraging people to click on links that go to the cloned site .
These cloned websites can also appear at the top of Google search results , usually as an advert .
One way to ensure that the website you are on is genuine is to type in the address yourself , ideally using an address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter .
As well as this , never click on links sent through emails or text messages .
A padlock symbol at the start of the website ’ s address is also an indication that the website is secure .
Pay-per-click ( PPC ) are adverts that appear in Google search results or on websites .
Although many of these adverts are genuine , scammers also use PPC to get people to click through to cloned or a fraud website and deposit or transfer money through the site .
The top few results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PPC adverts and , although these can look like a standard search result , there is a small ‘ Ad ’ symbol that indicates it is a PPC advert .
Scroll past these results and you will normally get to the non-PPC results .
To avoid clicking on a scam PPC advert on a website , ensure you only click on adverts or links on trusted sites – for example , Moneyfacts.co.uk always ensures that any advert or link from the site goes to an authentic and genuine website .
Probably one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , types of scams is via phone calls .
As consumers have become more aware of phone call scams , scammers have become more sophisticated in how they target consumers .
One scam , for example , involves calling the intended victim and claiming to be from their bank , state that their account has been compromised and , once they have panicked the victim , persuade them to give out confidential information .
The best way to avoid being scammed over the phone is to end the call and phone back on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an official document ( not one provided during the original phone call ) .
It is also advisable to call back on a different phone or wait at least 10 minutes to call back .
As well as this , no matter how genuine the call sounds , never give out personal information over the phone .
Emails and texts can be used in many ways by scammers – emails used to try and scam people are known as phishing emails and texts are known as smishing .
As already mentioned , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ click on links that send them to clone websites .
Another way scammers use emails is to persuade people to click on links that download a virus to their computer or to try and get people to transfer money .
Phishing emails can come from what looks like authentic organisations or from family and friends whose emails have been hacked .
Always be on guard with any email or text that is sent , avoid clicking on links , and if you are in any way suspicious , delete the email or text @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stay safe from scammers , and to report a scam , visit : www.actionfraud.police.uk .

While banks and building societies will often refund money lost through scams, it is not always guaranteed and the best way you can ensure your money is safe is to take steps to protect yourself from scams.
We've put together a list of the most common scams to watch out for.
Website cloning
A cloned website is a replica of an official site that fools people into thinking it is an authentic site and, as a result, they make bank payments, deposit money or give out personal information.
This type of scam can be easy to fall for and Government, banks, building societies and pension firms websites have all been cloned by scammers.
Often, scammers will send emails or text messages encouraging people to click on links that go to the cloned site.
These cloned websites can also appear at the top of Google search results, usually as an advert.
One way to ensure that the website you are on is genuine is to type in the address yourself, ideally using an address on an official document such as a letter.
As well as this, never click on links sent through emails or text messages. A padlock symbol at the start of the website’s address is also an indication that the website is secure.
Pay-per-click
Pay-per-click (PPC) are adverts that appear in Google search results or on websites.
Although many of these adverts are genuine, scammers also use PPC to get people to click through to cloned or a fraud website and deposit or transfer money through the site.
The top few results on a Google search will usually be PPC adverts and, although these can look like a standard search result, there is a small ‘Ad’ symbol that indicates it is a PPC advert. Scroll past these results and you will normally get to the non-PPC results.
To avoid clicking on a scam PPC advert on a website, ensure you only click on adverts or links on trusted sites – for example, Moneyfacts.co.uk always ensures that any advert or link from the site goes to an authentic and genuine website.
Phone calls
Probably one of the best known, and most common, types of scams is via phone calls.
As consumers have become more aware of phone call scams, scammers have become more sophisticated in how they target consumers.
One scam, for example, involves calling the intended victim and claiming to be from their bank, state that their account has been compromised and, once they have panicked the victim, persuade them to give out confidential information.
The best way to avoid being scammed over the phone is to end the call and phone back on a different number that you have from an official document (not one provided during the original phone call).
It is also advisable to call back on a different phone or wait at least 10 minutes to call back. As well as this, no matter how genuine the call sounds, never give out personal information over the phone.
Email and texts
Emails and texts can be used in many ways by scammers – emails used to try and scam people are known as phishing emails and texts are known as smishing.
As already mentioned, they can be used to encourage people to click on links that send them to clone websites.
Another way scammers use emails is to persuade people to click on links that download a virus to their computer or to try and get people to transfer money.
Phishing emails can come from what looks like authentic organisations or from family and friends whose emails have been hacked.
Always be on guard with any email or text that is sent, avoid clicking on links, and if you are in any way suspicious, delete the email or text.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--Suspected Kidderminster car thief hid in Wolverhampton garden

A MAN from Kidderminster who is believed to be involved in an attempted car jacking was found hiding in a garden in Wolverhampton .
The 20-year-old , from Kidderminster , was detained in Church Walk in Wolverhampton at around 6pm on Wednesday , October 14 .
Police believe he had been driving a stolen Seat Altea and had also tried to car jack a VW Golf in Tettenhall Road earlier that day .
He was one of 80 people in West Midlands Police 's cells on Thursday .
Another temporary resident in the cells was a man charged with possessing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car on the M5 between junctions 3 and 4 on Tuesday afternoon and seized the pistol from a rucksack along with 20 rounds of ammunition .
Ross Braithwaite , from Holloway Lane in Redditch , was charged with possessing a banned firearm and ammunition .
The 31-year-old appeared in court via video link from the cell block and has been remanded into prison until his next court appearance on November 12 .
Police are increasingly holding ‘ virtual ’ court appearances with a live link from their custody facility in order to minimise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the risk of Covid-19 infections .
Another man who appeared via video link on Thursday was Nathan Preece , of no fixed address , who is accused of making a hoax bomb threat .
It ’ s alleged the 23-year-old dialled 999 in the early hours of Wednesday morning from Walsall High Street , claiming to be in possession of explosives .
Preece was arrested after being located on the corner of High Street and Field Road , Bloxwich , and later charged with making a bomb hoax and knife possession .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday and was remanded into prison until his next court date on November 3 .

The 20-year-old, from Kidderminster, was detained in Church Walk in Wolverhampton at around 6pm on Wednesday, October 14.
Police believe he had been driving a stolen Seat Altea and had also tried to car jack a VW Golf in Tettenhall Road earlier that day.
He was one of 80 people in West Midlands Police's cells on Thursday.
Another temporary resident in the cells was a man charged with possessing a sub-machine gun.
Officers stopped a car on the M5 between junctions 3 and 4 on Tuesday afternoon and seized the pistol from a rucksack along with 20 rounds of ammunition.
Ross Braithwaite, from Holloway Lane in Redditch, was charged with possessing a banned firearm and ammunition.
The 31-year-old appeared in court via video link from the cell block and has been remanded into prison until his next court appearance on November 12.
Police are increasingly holding ‘virtual’ court appearances with a live link from their custody facility in order to minimise footfall in the courts and to reduce the risk of Covid-19 infections.
Another man who appeared via video link on Thursday was Nathan Preece, of no fixed address, who is accused of making a hoax bomb threat.
It’s alleged the 23-year-old dialled 999 in the early hours of Wednesday morning from Walsall High Street, claiming to be in possession of explosives.
Preece was arrested after being located on the corner of High Street and Field Road, Bloxwich, and later charged with making a bomb hoax and knife possession.
He appeared via video link in court on Thursday and was remanded into prison until his next court date on November 3.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--New coronavirus map reveals infection rates in Wyre Forest

A NEW government map shows where coronavirus infection rates are highest in Kidderminster , Bewdley and Stourport .
According to the latest data , which covers the week ending October 10 , Stourport Lickhill and Burlish had the highest seven-day rolling infection rate at 356.4 .
That week , 23 new cases were recorded , bringing the total number of ongoing positive cases up to 25 .
Habberley had the second highest seven-day rolling infection rate at 167.9 .
Eight new cases were recorded that week , bringing the total number of ongoing positive cases up to 11 .
Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however its rolling rate of infection was lower at 128.8 .
The latest infection rate recorded for the whole of Wyre Forest was 94 .
The seven-day rates are expressed per 100,000 members of the population and are calculated by dividing the seven-day case count by the area population and then multiplying it by 100,000 .
It shows how much positive cases have risen in a particular area during a seven-day period .
Here are the seven-day rolling infection rates by area for the week ending October 10 : View the interactive map @ @ @ @ @ @

According to the latest data, which covers the week ending October 10, Stourport Lickhill and Burlish had the highest seven-day rolling infection rate at 356.4.
That week, 23 new cases were recorded, bringing the total number of ongoing positive cases up to 25.
Habberley had the second highest seven-day rolling infection rate at 167.9.
Eight new cases were recorded that week, bringing the total number of ongoing positive cases up to 11.
Read more:
Kidderminster Town also had 11 positive cases, however its rolling rate of infection was lower at 128.8.
The latest infection rate recorded for the whole of Wyre Forest was 94.
The seven-day rates are expressed per 100,000 members of the population and are calculated by dividing the seven-day case count by the area population and then multiplying it by 100,000.
It shows how much positive cases have risen in a particular area during a seven-day period.
Here are the seven-day rolling infection rates by area for the week ending October 10:
Stourport Lickhill and Burlish - 356.4 rate, 25 cases
Habberley - 167.9 rate, 11 cases
Kidderminster Town - 128.8 rate, 11 cases
Spennells and Hoobrook - 124.6 rate, 8 cases
Comberton - 118.5 rate, 10 cases
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown - 109.8 rate, 10 cases
Stourport Mitton and Wilden - 88.3 rate, 7 cases
Greenhill - 85.6 rate, 6 cases
Stourport Areley Kings - 85.4 rate, 5 cases
Foley Park - 79.2 rate, 6 cases
Hartlebury and Wychbold - 62.6 rate, 5 cases
Bewdley East and Upper Arley - 58.5 rate, 4 cases
Bewdley West, Ribbesford and Far Forest - 56.7 rate, 4 cases
Birchen Coppice - 49.4 rate, 3 cases
View the interactive map on the government website here.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-16--'It's in our hands' to stop Worcestershire reaching tier two lockdown

THE director of Public Health for Worcestershire has said the whole county will face tougher lockdown restrictions - rather than specific districts - if coronavirus cases continue to rise .
Dr Kathryn Cobain said placing one district only into the 'high ' tier two alert level would not prevent the virus from spreading across the rest of the county .
She said : `` For now , Worcestershire is at level one , medium risk .
Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest may currently have the higher rates of infection , but that does not mean everywhere else in the county is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is also not the case that Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest ’ s infection rates would be the cause of all the county going to tier two .
`` Cases are going up countywide , and it is that fact which would lead the entire county into tighter restrictions . ''
Worcestershire is currently at 'medium ' risk of Covid-19 under the government ’ s three-tier alert system , which means residents must follow the 'rule of six ' and obide by 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in regular conversations with the government about Covid-19 cases and trends in the local area .
The situation in Worcestershire is being assessed daily , and if the number of cases continue to rise , Public Health bosses warn the government may choose to raise the alert level .
While Bromsgrove remains at the top of the list for the highest number of positive cases in the county , followed by Wyre Forest , health officials say the situation is `` fluid '' and `` changes rapidly '' .
Worcestershire as a whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection .
Dr Cobain added : `` I would remind everyone that we can keep our infection rates low , our actions can prevent the need for further restrictions .
It ’ s in our hands .
”

Dr Kathryn Cobain said placing one district only into the 'high' tier two alert level would not prevent the virus from spreading across the rest of the county.
She said: "For now, Worcestershire is at level one, medium risk. Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest may currently have the higher rates of infection, but that does not mean everywhere else in the county is immune to the spread of the virus.
"It is also not the case that Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest’s infection rates would be the cause of all the county going to tier two.
"Cases are going up countywide, and it is that fact which would lead the entire county into tighter restrictions."
Worcestershire is currently at 'medium' risk of Covid-19 under the government’s three-tier alert system, which means residents must follow the 'rule of six' and obide by 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants.
The county council and Public Health leaders are in regular conversations with the government about Covid-19 cases and trends in the local area.
The situation in Worcestershire is being assessed daily, and if the number of cases continue to rise, Public Health bosses warn the government may choose to raise the alert level.
While Bromsgrove remains at the top of the list for the highest number of positive cases in the county, followed by Wyre Forest, health officials say the situation is "fluid" and "changes rapidly".
Worcestershire as a whole is still seeing rising Covid rates of infection.
Dr Cobain added: "I would remind everyone that we can keep our infection rates low, our actions can prevent the need for further restrictions. It’s in our hands.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--27 Wyre Forest good causes to benefit from new community lottery

SCOUT groups , sports clubs and a dog rescue centre are among the good causes set to benefit from Wyre Forest District Council 's new community lottery .
A full list of the first 27 local organisations and charities set to receive a share of the lottery ticket money has been revealed .
Tickets for the new Wyre Forest Community Lottery go on sale to the public on Tuesday , October 20 and players will be able to choose where 50 per cent of the cost of their ticket will go .
The 27 groups officially approved as lottery good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to start earning vital income from weekly cash draws starting at the end of November .
The first draw will take place on Saturday , November 28 , with a weekly jackpot of £25,000 for a matching sequence of six numbers and other prizes including £2,000 , £250 , £25 or three free tickets .
Tickets cost £1 with 60p going towards local good causes , compared with 28p in the pound for the National Lottery .
Cabinet member for culture , leisure and community protection , Councillor Helen Dyke , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that so many local groups have successfully met the criteria and will be able to benefit from this exciting new venture right from the start .
“ We are currently considering applications from another 11 organisations and the message is that other groups can apply and come on board at any time – there is no deadline .
“ I am in no doubt that the community lottery will create an extremely useful new income stream for smaller charities and groups in particular , who have been hit this year by the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more traditional ways of fund raising.
” Players can enter for a chance to win at wyreforestcommunitylottery.co.uk .

A full list of the first 27 local organisations and charities set to receive a share of the lottery ticket money has been revealed.
Tickets for the new Wyre Forest Community Lottery go on sale to the public on Tuesday, October 20 and players will be able to choose where 50 per cent of the cost of their ticket will go.
The 27 groups officially approved as lottery good causes include:
Wyre Forest Dial-a-Ride
HUGS
Forest Dog Rescue
HELP
Bewdley Cricket Club
Active Youth Outreach Services
Offmore Primary School
The Odell Trust
1st Franche Brownies
1st WF Sea Scouts
SociABLEs HUB and C.R.E.W.S.
Wribbenhall Parish Room
The Wyre Forest Society
16th WF (St Michael’s) Scout Group
Kidderminster Lions FC
The Pickup Artists
Community Transport Ltd
Wyre Forest Food Bank
6th Stourport Brownies
15th WF (Habberley) Scout Group
Friends of Heronswood
9th WF (Spennells) Scout Group
Home-Start Wyre Forest
Mentor Link
Wyre Forest Nightstop and Mediation
Kidderminster Cricket Club
Churchill Forge Trust Ltd
All good causes will be able to start earning vital income from weekly cash draws starting at the end of November.
The first draw will take place on Saturday, November 28, with a weekly jackpot of £25,000 for a matching sequence of six numbers and other prizes including £2,000, £250, £25 or three free tickets.
Tickets cost £1 with 60p going towards local good causes, compared with 28p in the pound for the National Lottery.
Cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, Councillor Helen Dyke, said: “I’m delighted that so many local groups have successfully met the criteria and will be able to benefit from this exciting new venture right from the start.
“We are currently considering applications from another 11 organisations and the message is that other groups can apply and come on board at any time – there is no deadline.
“I am in no doubt that the community lottery will create an extremely useful new income stream for smaller charities and groups in particular, who have been hit this year by the pandemic which has stopped a lot of the more traditional ways of fund raising.”
Players can enter for a chance to win at wyreforestcommunitylottery.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--New owners announce upgrade plan for Stourport pub Ye Olde Crown Inn

A PUB in Stourport has been taken over by a Birmingham-based brewery with plans for a `` major investment '' to upgrade the pub .
Ye Olde Crown Inn in Bridge Street went on the market earlier this year with a guide price of £450,000 .
The former JD Wetherspoon pub has been bought by Davenports Brewery , which runs The Bulls Head in Birmingham city centre and The Elms in Wolverhampton .
James A Baker acted on behalf of previous owners Hawthorn Leisure to sell the pub .
Jack Sinclair , director at James A Baker , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attracted a good level of interest from local and regional operators despite the Covid-19 pandemic .
`` A number of bids were received and it is clear that the market is still very active as we have seen encouraging sales performance despite the unprecedented and uncertain times the country has found itself in . ''
Davenports Brewery , which dates back to 1829 , has since confirmed plans for a major investment to upgrade Ye Olde Crown Inn in the near future .
A spokesman told The Shuttle : `` Davenports Brewery , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this quality freehold premises in Stourport to add to their repertoire of branded outlets serving great food and excellent Davenports beers .
`` There is even more good news – Davenports Brewery are planning a major investment to upgrade the pub in the near future .
Watch this space ! ''

Ye Olde Crown Inn in Bridge Street went on the market earlier this year with a guide price of £450,000.
The former JD Wetherspoon pub has been bought by Davenports Brewery, which runs The Bulls Head in Birmingham city centre and The Elms in Wolverhampton.
James A Baker acted on behalf of previous owners Hawthorn Leisure to sell the pub.
Jack Sinclair, director at James A Baker, said: "This large town centre licensed property attracted a good level of interest from local and regional operators despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
"A number of bids were received and it is clear that the market is still very active as we have seen encouraging sales performance despite the unprecedented and uncertain times the country has found itself in."
Davenports Brewery, which dates back to 1829, has since confirmed plans for a major investment to upgrade Ye Olde Crown Inn in the near future.
A spokesman told The Shuttle: "Davenports Brewery, Birmingham, are delighted to have acquired this quality freehold premises in Stourport to add to their repertoire of branded outlets serving great food and excellent Davenports beers.
"There is even more good news – Davenports Brewery are planning a major investment to upgrade the pub in the near future. Watch this space!"


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles: What's available from Sunday, October 18?

The latest items hitting the shelves in the middle of Aldi and Lidl on Sunday , October 18 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ retailers .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each @ @ @ @ @ Aldi are holding a kitchen , winter clothing and hi-vis event as part of their @ @ @ @ @ .
A light up LED harness for dogs , costing £9.99 each .
Plus , @ @ @ @ @ for £24.99 each .
In the middle of Lidl this week , the supermarket chain @ @ @ @ @ on the theme of personal care .
Plus , a Livarno Lux Hollywood Mirror Lights @ @ @ @ @ not included ) .

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are holding a kitchen, winter clothing and hi-vis event as part of their Special Buys set of deals.
These include:
A light up LED harness for dogs, costing £9.99 each.
A glass toaster for £24.99 each.
Plus, a 6.5 litre slow cooker for £24.99 each.
For more details, visit: Aldi.co.uk.
Lidl
In the middle of Lidl this week, the supermarket chain have a range of products on the theme of personal care.
These include:
A Sanitas Illuminated Cosmetic Mirror for £14.99 each.
A Miomare Makeup Brush Set for £9.99 per set.
Plus, a Livarno Lux Hollywood Mirror Lights for £12.99 each (mirror not included).
For more details, visit Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--Ready to keep Worcestershire's roads open through winter

We ’ re ready for anything the winter throws at us .
That ’ s the message form Worcestershire county council as the road gritting team go on standby .
The council have added three new gritters to their fleet and another three will be upgraded as the season goes on .
Over the summer highways depots covering the whole county were re-stocked ahead of the winter .
More than 11,750 tonnes of salt are ready to be used , and this will grow through the winter and be replenished when needed .
Councillor Alan Amos , Cabinet Member for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams are ready to keep Worcestershire moving through the winter .
They do a fantastic job , working all hours to ensure the county ’ s roads remain open.
” The Highways fleet of 32 gritting vehicles and the teams that drive them , cover 1000 miles of roads .
Last winter they clocked up more than 50,000 miles across the county - equivalent of more than twice around the world .
The Council have also checked the county 's 1,320 grit bins to ensure they are full .
Residents can also locate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People can report any issues on the roads including their grit bins via www.worcestershire.gov.uk/reportit .
The start of the gritting season also means the Twitter account for roads and highways @ worcstravel will go into ‘ # GritterTwitter ’ mode , with a daily update on where and when the gritters are going out .

That’s the message form Worcestershire county council as the road gritting team go on standby.
The council have added three new gritters to their fleet and another three will be upgraded as the season goes on.
Over the summer highways depots covering the whole county were re-stocked ahead of the winter.
More than 11,750 tonnes of salt are ready to be used, and this will grow through the winter and be replenished when needed.
Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Our gritting teams are ready to keep Worcestershire moving through the winter. They do a fantastic job, working all hours to ensure the county’s roads remain open.”
The Highways fleet of 32 gritting vehicles and the teams that drive them, cover 1000 miles of roads.
Last winter they clocked up more than 50,000 miles across the county - equivalent of more than twice around the world.
The Council have also checked the county's 1,320 grit bins to ensure they are full.
Residents can also locate their nearest grit bin, via www.worcestershire.gov.uk/gritting.
People can report any issues on the roads including their grit bins via www.worcestershire.gov.uk/reportit.
The start of the gritting season also means the Twitter account for roads and highways @worcstravel will go into ‘#GritterTwitter’ mode, with a daily update on where and when the gritters are going out.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--Two car crash in Droitwich Road, Kidderminster

TWO cars crashed in Kidderminster with firefighters called to the scene .
The crash happened on Droitwich Road at around @ @ @ @ @ 16 ) .
Hereford and Worcester Fire Control tweeted about the incident , with the @ @ @ @ @ .

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-17--Where you can help save the planet in Kidderminster

At your service - the places in Kidderminster where you can do your bit to save the planet .
The town ’ s shoppers are being asked to take advantage of an expanded service that allows them to reuse and refill plastic containers rather than dumping them .
The Refill campaign says it has already saved 100 million pieces of plastic from our oceans .
Now a dedicated app helps people find locations to reuse and refill – making it easier to eat , drink and shop packaging-free .
Morrisons , LUSH , Costa and other independent stores are among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to the campaign , run by the City to Sea charity .
It allows people to identify where they can find places to refill their water bottle , coffee cup , lunchbox , groceries and even cleaning products and toiletries– shunning single-use plastic for good Packaging from take-away food and drinks is a leading villain in the fight against plastic pollution and items like coffee cups and take-away containers are consistently in the top 10 found on beaches around the world .
The pandemic has also seen many cafes and retailers temporarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the use of single-use plastic .
Download the free app here to find out where to refill : https : //refill.org.uk/get-the-refill-app/

The town’s shoppers are being asked to take advantage of an expanded service that allows them to reuse and refill plastic containers rather than dumping them.
The Refill campaign says it has already saved 100 million pieces of plastic from our oceans.
Now a dedicated app helps people find locations to reuse and refill – making it easier to eat, drink and shop packaging-free.
Morrisons, LUSH, Costa and other independent stores are among some of the big name brands signed up to the campaign, run by the City to Sea charity.
It allows people to identify where they can find places to refill their water bottle, coffee cup, lunchbox, groceries and even cleaning products and toiletries– shunning single-use plastic for good
Packaging from take-away food and drinks is a leading villain in the fight against plastic pollution and items like coffee cups and take-away containers are consistently in the top 10 found on beaches around the world.
The pandemic has also seen many cafes and retailers temporarily stop the use of reusables and increase the use of single-use plastic.
Download the free app here to find out where to refill: https://refill.org.uk/get-the-refill-app/