kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-16--Stourport action group wants homeless units plan withdrawn

AN action group has been formed to fight plans to build short-term accommodation for the homeless on a car park in Stourport town centre .
Disgruntled local residents and business owners have launched the Save Stourport 's Heritage ( SSH ) task group to raise awareness and funds to fight against Wyre Forest District Council 's plans for an 18-bed facility in Bridge Street .
The group has already submitted a 1,800-signature petition against the application , handed out 1,000 leaflets and raised over £1,500 to hire their own planning consultant .
Wyre Forest District Council wants to build an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site in Bridge Street Group founder Dave Bishop said : `` I took the initiative to start it up purely because of how disgusted people are that Wyre Forest District Council wants to put this plan through .
`` We have nearly 2,000 members on our Facebook page and there have been more than 700 objections , which I believe is a record for any planning application submitted in Wyre Forest .
`` The issue is not about the people that would use this facility - we understand that homeless people need somewhere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the council is planning to put it .
`` They 're planning to place very vulnerable people within 150 yards of three arcades , two pubs and a cheap off licence - not to mention the impact it will have on Stourport 's tourism .
It just has n't been thought through .
An artist 's impression of what the homeless facility would look like '' This really could be the death of this town .
We want this plan to be withdrawn . ''
The SSH group also plans to look at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposals for the site .
Local resident Tony Gavin said : `` When Lloyds Garage was threatened with a compulsory purchase order and the owner had to sell , most people in Stourport were appalled , but we put up with it because we were told we were going to get this regeneration project to open up the basins .
`` Stourport is an amazing place and this planning application shows the council either does n't recognise that or is n't concerned about the impact it will have on this town . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent more than £100,000 over the years to clear the land and attempt to find a developer to bring forward its 2005 regeneration plans for the basins .
• Inquiry into Kidderminster statue finds no links to exploitation According to information on the council 's website , those using the facility would be local people who find themselves homeless , domestic violence victims needing emergency accommodation , or children leaving care .
Councillor Fran Oborski , Wyre Forest District Council ’ s cabinet member for economic regeneration , planning and capital investments , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until Monday , July 20 , 2020 .
People can view or comment on the Bridge Street , Stourport application using our online planning portal .
Any comments sent through the portal or petitions submitted to the council will be considered by our Planning Committee in August .
“ For more information on our plans to develop the temporary car park site into much needed short-term residential accommodation , please visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/bridgestreet .
”

Disgruntled local residents and business owners have launched the Save Stourport's Heritage (SSH) task group to raise awareness and funds to fight against Wyre Forest District Council's plans for an 18-bed facility in Bridge Street.
The group has already submitted a 1,800-signature petition against the application, handed out 1,000 leaflets and raised over £1,500 to hire their own planning consultant.
Wyre Forest District Council wants to build an 18-bed short-term homeless accommodation facility on the site in Bridge Street
Group founder Dave Bishop said: "I took the initiative to start it up purely because of how disgusted people are that Wyre Forest District Council wants to put this plan through.
"We have nearly 2,000 members on our Facebook page and there have been more than 700 objections, which I believe is a record for any planning application submitted in Wyre Forest.
"The issue is not about the people that would use this facility - we understand that homeless people need somewhere to live - it's about where the council is planning to put it.
"They're planning to place very vulnerable people within 150 yards of three arcades, two pubs and a cheap off licence - not to mention the impact it will have on Stourport's tourism. It just hasn't been thought through.
An artist's impression of what the homeless facility would look like
"This really could be the death of this town. We want this plan to be withdrawn."
The SSH group also plans to look at ways to entice other developers to submit proposals for the site.
Local resident Tony Gavin said: "When Lloyds Garage was threatened with a compulsory purchase order and the owner had to sell, most people in Stourport were appalled, but we put up with it because we were told we were going to get this regeneration project to open up the basins.
"Stourport is an amazing place and this planning application shows the council either doesn't recognise that or isn't concerned about the impact it will have on this town."
Wyre Forest District Council said it has spent more than £100,000 over the years to clear the land and attempt to find a developer to bring forward its 2005 regeneration plans for the basins.
Read more:
According to information on the council's website, those using the facility would be local people who find themselves homeless, domestic violence victims needing emergency accommodation, or children leaving care.
Councillor Fran Oborski, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and capital investments, said: “The consultation period runs until Monday, July 20, 2020. People can view or comment on the Bridge Street, Stourport application using our online planning portal. Any comments sent through the portal or petitions submitted to the council will be considered by our Planning Committee in August.
“For more information on our plans to develop the temporary car park site into much needed short-term residential accommodation, please visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/bridgestreet.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-16--Urgent product recall: Dog food products may contain salmonella

A DOG food brand has launched an urgent recall on a number of products .
Benyfit Natural Pet Food Ltd has called back several types of frozen raw dog food products containing beef because the products might contain salmonella .
The company says the products have been sold by various independent pet food stores and online .
Which products have been affected ?
According to the Food Standards Agency , the products listed above might be contaminated with salmonella .
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause illness in humans and animals .
The products could therefore carry a potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , either through direct handling of the pet food , or indirectly , for example from pet feeding bowls , utensils or contact with the faeces of animals .
In humans , symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever , diarrhoea and abdominal cramps .
Infected animals may not necessarily display signs of illness , but symptoms can include diarrhoea .
What to do if you have one of the affected products If you have bought any of the above products do not use them .
Instead , return them to the store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full refund .
When handling and serving raw pet food it is always advised to clean utensils and feeding bowls thoroughly after use .
Consumers should wash hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food , bowls , utensils or after contact with the faeces of animals .
Raw pet food should be stored separately from any food ( especially ready to eat foods ) .
Care should be taken when defrosting to avoid cross contamination of foods and surfaces .
For more information contact Benyfit Natural Pet Food on 01892 770 188 or @ @ @ @ @

Benyfit Natural Pet Food Ltd has called back several types of frozen raw dog food products containing beef because the products might contain salmonella.
The company says the products have been sold by various independent pet food stores and online.
Which products have been affected?
Benyfit Natural 80-10-10 Beef Meat Feast
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 046-076 - Best before: March 16, 2021
Batch code: 046-083 - Best before: 23 March 2021
Batch code: 046-093 - Best before: April 2, 2021
Batch code: 046-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Benyfit Natural 80-10-10 Beef Meat Feast
Pack size: 500g
Batch code: 047-076 - Best before: March 16, 2021
Batch code: 047-083 - Best before: March 23, 2021
Batch code: 047-093 - Best before: April 2, 2021
Batch code: 047-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Unique Raw Duck, Beef & Ox Recipe
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 710-077 - Best before: March 17, 2021
Batch code: 710-099 - Best before: April 8, 2021
Benyfit Natural Beef & Tripe
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 013-077 - Best before: March 17, 2021
Batch code: 013-085 - Best before: March 25, 2021
Batch code: 013-093 - Best before: April 2, 2021
Batch code: 013-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Benyfit Natural Beef & Tripe
Pack size: 500g
Batch code: 014-077 - Best before: March 17, 2021
Batch code: 014-086 - Best before: March 25, 2021
Batch code: 014-093 - Best before: April 2, 2021
Batch code: 014-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Benyfit Natural Succulent Beef
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 010-083 - Best before: March 23, 2021
Batch code: 010-087 - Best before: March 27, 2021
Batch code: 010-090 - Best before: March 30, 2021
Batch code: 010-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Benyfit Natural Succulent Beef
Pack size: 500g
Batch code: 011-083 - Best before: March 23, 2021
Batch code: 011-090 - Best before: March 30, 2021
Batch code: 011-100 - Best before: April 9, 2021
Embark on Raw Natural Working Dog Food Beef Complete
Pack size: 454g
Batch code: 203-078 - Best before: March 18, 2021
Batch code: 203-090 - Best before: March 30, 2021
Batch code: 203-097 - Best before: April 6, 2021
Neew Dog Premium Beef
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 405-079 - Best before: March 19, 2021
Batch code: 405-090 - Best before: March 30, 2021
Batch code: 405-099 - Best before: April 8, 2021
Neew Dog Premium Beef
Pack size: 500g
Batch code: 406-090 - Best before: March 30, 2021
Batch code: 406-097 - Best before: April 6, 2021
Unique Raw Chicken, Beef & Ox Recipe
Pack size: 1kg
Batch code: 707-098 - Best before: April 7, 2021
According to the Food Standards Agency, the products listed above might be contaminated with salmonella.
What is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause illness in humans and animals.
The products could therefore carry a potential risk because of the presence of salmonella, either through direct handling of the pet food, or indirectly, for example from pet feeding bowls, utensils or contact with the faeces of animals.
In humans, symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.
Infected animals may not necessarily display signs of illness, but symptoms can include diarrhoea.
What to do if you have one of the affected products
If you have bought any of the above products do not use them. Instead, return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund.
When handling and serving raw pet food it is always advised to clean utensils and feeding bowls thoroughly after use.
Consumers should wash hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food, bowls, utensils or after contact with the faeces of animals.
Raw pet food should be stored separately from any food (especially ready to eat foods). Care should be taken when defrosting to avoid cross contamination of foods and surfaces.
For more information contact Benyfit Natural Pet Food on 01892 770 188 or email bn.info@rpfcgroup.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-16--Our Shuttle Run homeless appeal passes £3,000 milestone

OUR Shuttle Run appeal is racing towards its £10,000 goal to fund a new van to help support Wyre Forest 's homeless .
The fundraising campaign with local homeless charity HELP is back on the road and - thanks to generous donations from readers - has now surpassed the £3,000 milestone .
And with more people in need of help due to the coronavirus pandemic and resulting lockdown , the work of HELP 's volunteers is now more important than ever .
Charity founder Dave Griffin said : `` We know times are hard for everybody and we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give generously again .
`` We ’ re still giving out 60 plus meals per day , three days per week and we are just desperate for this van to get around and collect the food donations we need .
`` Right now we 're needing bigger amounts of food and it 's just not possible for our volunteers to do in their own cars . ''
Could you , your school , workplace or community group hold a fundraising event for The Shuttle Run appeal ?
It could be a marathon in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a socially-distanced group challenge .
We 'll be running stories in the paper each week as we get closer to our fundraising target .
Email emily.collis @ newsquest.co.uk and let us know how you ’ re supporting the appeal !
Donations can be made online via our new fundraising page justgiving.com/crowdfunding/the-shuttle-run-homeless-van-appeal .
Cheques can be sent to Kidderminster Shuttle , Second Floor , Copthall House , 1 New Road , Stourbridge DY8 1PH .
Make them payable to HELP and write SHUTTLE RUN on the back .
Bank transfers should go to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 38430260 , sort code 30-91-91 .

The fundraising campaign with local homeless charity HELP is back on the road and - thanks to generous donations from readers - has now surpassed the £3,000 milestone.
And with more people in need of help due to the coronavirus pandemic and resulting lockdown, the work of HELP's volunteers is now more important than ever.
Charity founder Dave Griffin said: "We know times are hard for everybody and we’re so glad that people are starting to give generously again.
"We’re still giving out 60 plus meals per day, three days per week and we are just desperate for this van to get around and collect the food donations we need.
"Right now we're needing bigger amounts of food and it's just not possible for our volunteers to do in their own cars."
Could you, your school, workplace or community group hold a fundraising event for The Shuttle Run appeal? It could be a marathon in your back garden, an online fundraiser or a socially-distanced group challenge.
We'll be running stories in the paper each week as we get closer to our fundraising target. Email emily.collis@newsquest.co.uk and let us know how you’re supporting the appeal!
Donations can be made online via our new fundraising page justgiving.com/crowdfunding/the-shuttle-run-homeless-van-appeal.
Cheques can be sent to Kidderminster Shuttle, Second Floor, Copthall House, 1 New Road, Stourbridge DY8 1PH. Make them payable to HELP and write SHUTTLE RUN on the back.
Bank transfers should go to HELP, Lloyds Bank, account number 38430260, sort code 30-91-91.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-16--Stunning photographs from Comet Neowise to hedgehogs!

Some stunning shots in this week 's gallery of pictures all taken by members of the Advertiser and Shuttle Camera @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook to join .

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-15--Cookley student in Channel 4 show on NHS during coronavirus

A STUDENT from Cookley who began working for the NHS 111 call service after his aunt died from coronavirus has featured in a new Channel 4 documentary on his first day on the job .
Ollie Farquharson , 18 , answered West Midlands Ambulance Service 's appeal for more call handlers after his A-levels at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge were cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak .
His aunt , Kate Fox , 56 , died after being diagnosed with the virus in April and Ollie says he wanted to `` give something back '' .
Cookley student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 documentary series Paramedics : Britain ’ s Lifesavers .
Photo by Channel 4 In the first episode of the new Channel 4 series Paramedics : Britain 's Lifesavers on Monday , Ollie talks about his first day in training .
The course would normally have taken five weeks but was whittled down to two as the ambulance service stepped up its recruitment in response to a quadrupling in calls to 999 and 111 since the outbreak .
Speaking to The Shuttle , Ollie said : `` My A-levels got cancelled , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That was one of the motivations - I wanted to give something back because of what my family has experienced , in addition to the fact it gave me something to do rather than sitting at home .
`` I worked in a pharmacy in Kidderminster on the weekends last year so I did have some community healthcare interest , but it was definitely completely different .
`` I spent one week in the classroom then the other week was systems based , listening to calls .
By the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to start taking live calls . ''
Ollie admitted having his first shift on camera was a strange experience .
He said : `` We were told on our first morning there were cameras on site .
They interviewed us all and asked what brought us here then they filmed my first call .
`` It was quite strange to have the cameras there . ''
Speaking about his experience as a call assessor , Ollie said : `` It 's nice when you get calls from people who are really thankful and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get some tough calls though and some abusive callers as well .
Ollie was inspired to sign up to the NHS 111 service after his aunt passed away from coronavirus '' It 's quite intense at times but we 've all had a lot of support from the trust and there 's always support for the new starters on the floor . ''
Ollie said his work with the NHS 111 has been `` quite rewarding '' , but said he is n't planning to continue it as a career .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moment and I 'm happy to come back if there 's a second wave , but I am looking forward to getting back on track and hopefully go to university to study law in September . ''
Filmed across three weeks , the three-part Paramedics : Britain 's Lifesavers series will be shown at 9pm on Mondays .

Ollie Farquharson, 18, answered West Midlands Ambulance Service's appeal for more call handlers after his A-levels at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge were cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
His aunt, Kate Fox, 56, died after being diagnosed with the virus in April and Ollie says he wanted to "give something back".
Cookley student Ollie Farquharson featured in the new Channel 4 documentary series Paramedics: Britain’s Lifesavers. Photo by Channel 4
In the first episode of the new Channel 4 series Paramedics: Britain's Lifesavers on Monday, Ollie talks about his first day in training.
The course would normally have taken five weeks but was whittled down to two as the ambulance service stepped up its recruitment in response to a quadrupling in calls to 999 and 111 since the outbreak.
Speaking to The Shuttle, Ollie said: "My A-levels got cancelled, then my aunt passed away in early April. That was one of the motivations - I wanted to give something back because of what my family has experienced, in addition to the fact it gave me something to do rather than sitting at home.
"I worked in a pharmacy in Kidderminster on the weekends last year so I did have some community healthcare interest, but it was definitely completely different.
"I spent one week in the classroom then the other week was systems based, listening to calls. By the end of the second week, I was signed off to start taking live calls."
Ollie admitted having his first shift on camera was a strange experience.
He said: "We were told on our first morning there were cameras on site. They interviewed us all and asked what brought us here then they filmed my first call.
"It was quite strange to have the cameras there."
Speaking about his experience as a call assessor, Ollie said: "It's nice when you get calls from people who are really thankful and grateful for your help. You do get some tough calls though and some abusive callers as well.
Ollie was inspired to sign up to the NHS 111 service after his aunt passed away from coronavirus
"It's quite intense at times but we've all had a lot of support from the trust and there's always support for the new starters on the floor."
Ollie said his work with the NHS 111 has been "quite rewarding", but said he isn't planning to continue it as a career.
He said: "I'm still working at the moment and I'm happy to come back if there's a second wave, but I am looking forward to getting back on track and hopefully go to university to study law in September."
Filmed across three weeks, the three-part Paramedics: Britain's Lifesavers series will be shown at 9pm on Mondays.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-15--Council takes action after complaints about bikers in Bewdley

WYRE Forest District Council has responded to concerns from residents and visitors about the impact of large numbers of motorbike riders visiting Bewdley .
Large numbers of bikers have been congregating on Severnside South , with some illegally parking their bikes on the pavement and ignoring restrictions which apply to all vehicles on either side of the double yellow lines .
The council says problems have become particularly noticeable since lockdown began to ease in May and with the return of warmer weather .
It said enforcement officers are unable to be present all day , but has promised it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any vehicle parked in contravention of the restrictions - except those which are loading or unloading .
The council has funded new signs from its community safety budget which will be erected shortly to make it clear that no parking is allowed either side of double yellow lines .
Councillor Helen Dyke , cabinet member for culture , leisure and community protection , said “ Bikers are welcome in Bewdley , a town which depends on its visitor economy , and we don ’ t have the power , nor would we wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we would ask bikers to comply with parking restrictions in the town and not behave in a way that many local residents feel is anti-social .
“ It is irresponsible to park vehicles on the pavements .
It prevents pedestrians from using them safely , including people with loss of vision , disabled people and those with children in prams or pushchairs .
It is not right that they have to use the road because of the selfish behaviour of a minority of road users.
” She added : “ West Mercia Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving in the wrong direction on one-way roads , speeding , excessively noisy exhausts that have been adapted from the manufacturer ’ s specification or obstruction of the highway including pavements .
`` These actions all contravene the law but none of them is an emergency , however annoying they may be to local residents .
They can be reported on 101 with number plate details and members of the public can provide photographic evidence .
“ However , the public will understand that the police must give priority to emergencies and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the concerns local people are reporting can be dealt with by the police only if they are present to observe them .
As with the council , the police do not have the resources to be present all day , every day.
” Councillor John Thomas , cabinet member for operational services , said “ The council ’ s powers are limited to controlling on-street parking .
However we will initiate a consultation shortly on whether we should change arrangements in our car parks to provide more space for motorbikes to be parked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This would be accompanied by the introduction of a modest charge for motorbikes , which presently park for free.
” “ We are not promising to make these changes as we need to test support for them from local residents .
There is a possibility that disruption associated with motorbikes might simply move from Severnside South and affect different groups of residents in the town .
`` The level of public concern demonstrates that we need to see whether these changes should form part of our response .
Because it takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car parks order , they would not in any case be able to take effect for at least two months .
“ We will also talk to Bewdley Town Council about whether it wishes to provide funding to enhance the level of civil enforcement activity in the town .
”

Large numbers of bikers have been congregating on Severnside South, with some illegally parking their bikes on the pavement and ignoring restrictions which apply to all vehicles on either side of the double yellow lines.
The council says problems have become particularly noticeable since lockdown began to ease in May and with the return of warmer weather.
It said enforcement officers are unable to be present all day, but has promised it will be issuing penalty charge notices for any vehicle parked in contravention of the restrictions - except those which are loading or unloading.
The council has funded new signs from its community safety budget which will be erected shortly to make it clear that no parking is allowed either side of double yellow lines.
Councillor Helen Dyke, cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, said “Bikers are welcome in Bewdley, a town which depends on its visitor economy, and we don’t have the power, nor would we wish, to ban motorbikes.
“However we would ask bikers to comply with parking restrictions in the town and not behave in a way that many local residents feel is anti-social.
“It is irresponsible to park vehicles on the pavements. It prevents pedestrians from using them safely, including people with loss of vision, disabled people and those with children in prams or pushchairs. It is not right that they have to use the road because of the selfish behaviour of a minority of road users.”
She added: “West Mercia Police has powers to deal with allegations of driving in the wrong direction on one-way roads, speeding, excessively noisy exhausts that have been adapted from the manufacturer’s specification or obstruction of the highway including pavements.
"These actions all contravene the law but none of them is an emergency, however annoying they may be to local residents. They can be reported on 101 with number plate details and members of the public can provide photographic evidence.
“However, the public will understand that the police must give priority to emergencies and to detecting serious crime.
"Many of the concerns local people are reporting can be dealt with by the police only if they are present to observe them. As with the council, the police do not have the resources to be present all day, every day.”
Councillor John Thomas, cabinet member for operational services, said “The council’s powers are limited to controlling on-street parking. However we will initiate a consultation shortly on whether we should change arrangements in our car parks to provide more space for motorbikes to be parked so that bikers can leave their machines.
"This would be accompanied by the introduction of a modest charge for motorbikes, which presently park for free.”
“We are not promising to make these changes as we need to test support for them from local residents. There is a possibility that disruption associated with motorbikes might simply move from Severnside South and affect different groups of residents in the town.
"The level of public concern demonstrates that we need to see whether these changes should form part of our response. Because it takes time to consult on changes to the car parks order, they would not in any case be able to take effect for at least two months.
“We will also talk to Bewdley Town Council about whether it wishes to provide funding to enhance the level of civil enforcement activity in the town.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-15--Shops asked to display food bins for Wyre Forest's homeless

A HOMELESS charity in Wyre Forest is looking for shops in the area to display one of its new food collection bins after seeing a fall in donations since the coronavirus outbreak .
Local homeless charity HELP has purchased 10 `` dump bins '' to encourage more people to donate food to help people in need across the district .
St George 's Church and Costcutter in Marlpool have already signed up to display two of the bins , and HELP founder Dave Griffin is urging other businesses in the area to get involved .
HELP is looking for shops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin '' It could be a supermarket or it could be a small shop or even an office , '' said Dave .
`` We 've got eight bins left and we 're willing to buy more if it means we can start getting some more donations .
`` Our stock levels are quite low at the moment as people seem to have stopped donating .
`` We need to keep our food stocks up as we 're out three nights a week at the moment feeding people who need our help .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ meals a night . ''
HELP is also encouraging businesses and community groups in Kidderminster , Stourport and Bewdley to donate £50 to fund a night 's worth of meals for homeless people in the area .
Dave said : `` My business , Quads ' n ' Castles , has donated £50 to purchase all the ingredients to cook one night of meals so we were thinking other businesses might like to show some community spirit and do the same . ''
For more information , to donate or to enquire about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HELP through its Facebook page by clicking here .

Local homeless charity HELP has purchased 10 "dump bins" to encourage more people to donate food to help people in need across the district.
St George's Church and Costcutter in Marlpool have already signed up to display two of the bins, and HELP founder Dave Griffin is urging other businesses in the area to get involved.
HELP is looking for shops and offices to display a food collection bin
"It could be a supermarket or it could be a small shop or even an office," said Dave. "We've got eight bins left and we're willing to buy more if it means we can start getting some more donations.
"Our stock levels are quite low at the moment as people seem to have stopped donating.
"We need to keep our food stocks up as we're out three nights a week at the moment feeding people who need our help. We're still doing 60 to 70 meals a night."
HELP is also encouraging businesses and community groups in Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley to donate £50 to fund a night's worth of meals for homeless people in the area.
Dave said: "My business, Quads 'n' Castles, has donated £50 to purchase all the ingredients to cook one night of meals so we were thinking other businesses might like to show some community spirit and do the same."
For more information, to donate or to enquire about displaying a food collection bin, contact HELP through its Facebook page by clicking here.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-15--'1,000 Worcestershire teens could turn to crime due to coronavirus'

MORE than 1,000 Worcestershire teenagers who are falling through the gaps in the school and social care system are at even greater risk due to the impact of Covid-19 , new figures suggest .
Children ’ s commissioner Anne Longfield warns a “ lost generation of teens ” could be groomed by gangs and criminals if they can not be reached .
The commissioner ’ s analysis identified 1,017 people aged 13 to 17 in Worcestershire who were slipping through the cracks in education and social care provision in 2017-18 .
That ’ s around 32.0 per 1,000 teenagers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the second-smallest proportion in the West Midlands .
The figure includes children who were bounced around or went missing from the care system , were excluded from or dropped out of school , or had high levels of unauthorised absence .
It also counts those who were not in education , employment or training ( NEET ) as of December 2017 .
These young people are at greater risk of exploitation , poor mental health and domestic violence and addiction in the home due to the coronavirus pandemic , the report says .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools , youth services , summer schemes , parks and leisure activities , with those affected in danger of remaining “ invisible ” after lockdown restrictions ease , it adds .
Across England , around 123,000 teenagers aged 13 to 17 were flagged as falling through the gaps – a rate of 40.0 in 1,000 .
Ms Longfield said : “ Many of these children , and I fear many thousands of other vulnerable teenagers , have had very little structure to their lives over the last six months .
“ School was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am concerned we are never going to get some of them back into education .
“ If we do not act now , this could result in a lost generation of teens – dropping out of school , going under the radar , getting into trouble , and at risk of being groomed by gangs and criminals.
” She is calling on the Government , schools , councils , the police and other groups to work together to support these children .
“ We must not look back in five years at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of society and ended up drifting into crime and unemployment , ” she added .
The Chancellor recently announced a £2 billion Kickstart Scheme as part of his mini-budget , which will fund six-month job placements for 18 to 24-year-olds .
A government spokeswoman said : `` Schools and colleges have remained open throughout the pandemic to vulnerable children and those of critical workers , and we have worked across government and with the sector to make sure young people stay safe at this time .
`` Ahead of a full return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are expanding frontline charity support and helplines to reach more young people , working with local authorities and schools to ensure they have eyes and ears on those at most risk , and supporting pupils leaving alternative provision this summer to stay engaged in education , employment or training .
”

Children’s commissioner Anne Longfield warns a “lost generation of teens” could be groomed by gangs and criminals if they cannot be reached.
The commissioner’s analysis identified 1,017 people aged 13 to 17 in Worcestershire who were slipping through the cracks in education and social care provision in 2017-18.
That’s around 32.0 per 1,000 teenagers in the age group – although this was the second-smallest proportion in the West Midlands.
The figure includes children who were bounced around or went missing from the care system, were excluded from or dropped out of school, or had high levels of unauthorised absence.
It also counts those who were not in education, employment or training (NEET) as of December 2017.
These young people are at greater risk of exploitation, poor mental health and domestic violence and addiction in the home due to the coronavirus pandemic, the report says.
This has been compounded by closures of schools, youth services, summer schemes, parks and leisure activities, with those affected in danger of remaining “invisible” after lockdown restrictions ease, it adds.
Across England, around 123,000 teenagers aged 13 to 17 were flagged as falling through the gaps – a rate of 40.0 in 1,000.
Ms Longfield said: “Many of these children, and I fear many thousands of other vulnerable teenagers, have had very little structure to their lives over the last six months.
“School was often a stretch for them, and I am concerned we are never going to get some of them back into education.
“If we do not act now, this could result in a lost generation of teens – dropping out of school, going under the radar, getting into trouble, and at risk of being groomed by gangs and criminals.”
She is calling on the Government, schools, councils, the police and other groups to work together to support these children.
“We must not look back in five years at a generation of vulnerable teenagers who fell out of society and ended up drifting into crime and unemployment,” she added.
The Chancellor recently announced a £2 billion Kickstart Scheme as part of his mini-budget, which will fund six-month job placements for 18 to 24-year-olds.
A government spokeswoman said: "Schools and colleges have remained open throughout the pandemic to vulnerable children and those of critical workers, and we have worked across government and with the sector to make sure young people stay safe at this time.
"Ahead of a full return to school and college in September, we are expanding frontline charity support and helplines to reach more young people, working with local authorities and schools to ensure they have eyes and ears on those at most risk, and supporting pupils leaving alternative provision this summer to stay engaged in education, employment or training.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-17--Driver arrested after car flipped onto roof on A449

A DRIVER who suffered a head injury when a car flipped onto its roof on a busy road was arrested on suspicion of drug driving .
The crash happened on the A449 in Ombersley on Tuesday , July 14 at around 11.20pm .
The car flipped onto its roof and was left on an embankment .
Emergency services were called to the scene where they found a man , in his 20s , who had managed to get himself out of his car .
He was arrested on suspicion of drug driving .
West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Woodhall Lane and the A449 to reports of a car crash .
A spokesman for the ambulance service said : “ On arrival we discovered one patient , a man who was the driver of the vehicle .
“ His car had ended up on an embankment .
“ He had managed to get himself out of the vehicle and was treated for injuries that were not believed to be serious .
“ He was then taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester for further treatment . ''
A spokesman for West Mercia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his 20s was arrested on Tuesday ( July 14 ) following a collision on the A449 in Ombersley at around 11.20pm .
“ He was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while under the influence of drugs after being treating in hospital for a head injury.
” Police posted on Twitter : “ Driver was lucky to escape with minor injuries , however not so lucky when it came to the drug swipe and provided a positive sample for cocaine .
Investigation ongoing.
” Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the fire service said : “ On arrival the crew found a vehicle had left the roadway in precarious position on its roof .
“ The driver had already left the car and was in care of the ambulance with minor injuries when we arrived .
`` The vehicle was made safe by our officers and police arranged for its recovery .
”

The crash happened on the A449 in Ombersley on Tuesday, July 14 at around 11.20pm.
The car flipped onto its roof and was left on an embankment.
Emergency services were called to the scene where they found a man, in his 20s, who had managed to get himself out of his car.
He was arrested on suspicion of drug driving.
West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were called at 11.20pm to the junction of Woodhall Lane and the A449 to reports of a car crash.
A spokesman for the ambulance service said: “On arrival we discovered one patient, a man who was the driver of the vehicle.
“His car had ended up on an embankment.
“He had managed to get himself out of the vehicle and was treated for injuries that were not believed to be serious.
“He was then taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester for further treatment."
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: “A man in his 20s was arrested on Tuesday (July 14) following a collision on the A449 in Ombersley at around 11.20pm.
“He was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while under the influence of drugs after being treating in hospital for a head injury.”
West Mercia Police’s operations patrol unit attended the scene.
Police posted on Twitter: “Driver was lucky to escape with minor injuries, however not so lucky when it came to the drug swipe and provided a positive sample for cocaine. Investigation ongoing.”
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service sent one engine from Droitwich.
A spokesman from the fire service said: “On arrival the crew found a vehicle had left the roadway in precarious position on its roof.
“The driver had already left the car and was in care of the ambulance with minor injuries when we arrived.
"The vehicle was made safe by our officers and police arranged for its recovery.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-17--Best and worst GP surgeries in Wyre Forest - rated by patients

THE best GP surgeries in Wyre Forest according to patients have been revealed as part of an annual NHS survey .
The Surgery at Chaddesley Corbett and Stanmore House Surgery in Kidderminster ranked the highest for overall experience with 97 per cent of patients describing their experiences of the GP practices as good .
The Church Street Surgery scored the lowest for overall experience with 76 per cent of patients rating their experiences as good - slightly below the local average of 87 per cent .
The figures come from the NHS ’ s annual GP Patient Survey which reveals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s surgeries were rated by patients between January and March – just weeks before the country went into lockdown because of coronavirus .
Residents were asked for their opinion on a variety of elements with practices , from booking appointments , waiting times , out-of-hours services and the quality of care given .
Scores for overall experience ( percentage of respondents rating good or very good ) : 1 .
The Surgery at Chaddesley Corbett and Stanmore House Surgery ( 97 % ) All of Wyre Forest 's GP surgeries scored high for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practice 's receptionists to be helpful .
Cleobury Mortimer Surgery scored the highest with a whopping 100 per cent , followed by Stanmore House and Chaddesley Corbett Surgery at 99 per cent .
Chaddesley Corbett Surgery scored the highest for the number of patients who were satisfied with the appointment times available at 91 per cent - much higher than the 67 per cent local average - while Church Street scored the lowest with 64 per cent .
The top score for patients who said they usually got to see or speak to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was 80 per cent at Chaddesley Corbett Surgery , followed by 71 per cent at Cleobury Mortimer Surgery .
Stanmore House came out top for the percentage of patients who waited 15 minutes or less after their appointment time to be seen during their last visit at 94 per cent , followed by Northumberland House Surgery at 88 per cent .
Kidderminster Medical Centre scored the lowest in this category with 63 per cent .
All surgeries scored high for the percentage of patients who had confidence and trust in the healthcare professional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last general appointment .
Stanmore House and Bewdley Medical Centre scored the highest in that category with an impressive 99 per cent .
Stanmore House scored highest for the number of patients who felt their needs were met during their last general practice appointment at 99 per cent .
Chaddesley Corbett Surgery , Cleobury Mortimer Surgery , York House and Wolverley Surgery all scored 98 per cent .

The Surgery at Chaddesley Corbett and Stanmore House Surgery in Kidderminster ranked the highest for overall experience with 97 per cent of patients describing their experiences of the GP practices as good.
The Church Street Surgery scored the lowest for overall experience with 76 per cent of patients rating their experiences as good - slightly below the local average of 87 per cent.
The figures come from the NHS’s annual GP Patient Survey which reveals how Wyre Forest’s doctor’s surgeries were rated by patients between January and March – just weeks before the country went into lockdown because of coronavirus.
Residents were asked for their opinion on a variety of elements with practices, from booking appointments, waiting times, out-of-hours services and the quality of care given.
Scores for overall experience (percentage of respondents rating good or very good):
1. The Surgery at Chaddesley Corbett and Stanmore House Surgery (97%)
2. Stourport Health Centre (95%)
3. Aylmer Lodge Cookley (93%)
4. Wolverley Surgery and Cleobury Mortimer Surgery (92%)
5. Northumberland House Surgery and York House Medical Centre (90%)
6. Kidderminster Medical Centre and Bewdley Medical Centre (85%)
7. Church Street Surgery (76%)
All of Wyre Forest's GP surgeries scored high for the percentage of patients who found the practice's receptionists to be helpful. Cleobury Mortimer Surgery scored the highest with a whopping 100 per cent, followed by Stanmore House and Chaddesley Corbett Surgery at 99 per cent.
Chaddesley Corbett Surgery scored the highest for the number of patients who were satisfied with the appointment times available at 91 per cent - much higher than the 67 per cent local average - while Church Street scored the lowest with 64 per cent.
The top score for patients who said they usually got to see or speak to their preferred GP when they wanted to was 80 per cent at Chaddesley Corbett Surgery, followed by 71 per cent at Cleobury Mortimer Surgery.
Stanmore House came out top for the percentage of patients who waited 15 minutes or less after their appointment time to be seen during their last visit at 94 per cent, followed by Northumberland House Surgery at 88 per cent. Kidderminster Medical Centre scored the lowest in this category with 63 per cent.
All surgeries scored high for the percentage of patients who had confidence and trust in the healthcare professional they saw or spoke to during their last general appointment. Stanmore House and Bewdley Medical Centre scored the highest in that category with an impressive 99 per cent.
Stanmore House scored highest for the number of patients who felt their needs were met during their last general practice appointment at 99 per cent. Chaddesley Corbett Surgery, Cleobury Mortimer Surgery, York House and Wolverley Surgery all scored 98 per cent.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-17--Labour councillors quit Progressive Alliance after Black Lives Matter debate

TWO members of Wyre Forest District Council 's Progressive Alliance have resigned from the group following a three-hour debate over a motion supporting the Black Lives Matter movement .
Labour councillors Leigh Whitehouse and Sarah Rook have quit the cross-party alliance , citing policy issues and differences of opinion between members .
It follows a meeting on Wednesday , when Cllr Whitehouse called for the council to `` stand fully '' with the Black Lives Matter global movement and review the appropriateness of any monuments , statues and street names that commemorated people or companies involved in the slave trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Whitehouse said : `` We must reflect on injustices in our communities and around the world .
`` Now more than ever before , it is vitally important to ensure this is a turning point .
`` We must stand resiliently in face of adversity supporting communities that are affected .
`` We must understand and address systemic racial discrimination that exists in our own communities . ''
Seconding the motion , Cllr Rook said : `` To say racism is down to a few bad apples ignores the systemic racism that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matter is more about one incident , it has been around since 2013 .
`` Unless we tackle those structural inequalities , we are being complicit . ''
An amendment was submitted by Conservative Group leader Marcus Hart to also include the words `` all lives matter '' in the motion , and remove any reference to a review of monuments and street names .
Cllr Hart said : `` We should not repeat the mistakes of our forefathers , but you can not rewrite history . ''
He added : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there should be equality with black and ethnic communities , and that should be done legally , responsively , respectively and within the rule of law , with no form of anarchy and intolerance . ''
Council members , including some from the Progressive Alliance , voted in favour of the amendment 18 to 13 , before a further amendment was submitted by Councillor Fran Oborski for the motion to recognise that `` while all lives do matter '' , there was a need to place focus on the fact that black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed after a tie-breaker prompted the chairman to make the deciding vote .
Cllr Hart then abstained from the final vote and the amended motion was finally approved .
Wyre Forest Labour said Cllr Rook and Cllr Whitehouse would continue to serve their constituents as Labour councillors , and support any `` progressive '' policies put forward by the ruling coalition .
Cllr Rook , who is leader of the Labour Group , said : `` It is with sadness and regret that we have reached the decision to leave the Progressive Alliance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we could transform Wyre Forest for the better on environmental and housing policy as well as help create a more democratic council structure .
`` Unfortunately , that has not been possible and things came to a head on Wednesday over the frustration tactics of too many fellow councillors on what is an important issue when Leigh presented his excellent Black Lives Matter motion .
`` Nevertheless , we had some initial policy successes and would still like a working relationship with the Alliance .
Even though we are poles apart politically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best for Wyre Forest .
`` Both Leigh and myself wish the remaining Progressive Alliance members well in their pursuit of serving our district .
`` I hope they now see us as critical friends rather than as their enemies .
`` There are still many good things we can mutually do for the benefit of our local communities by working constructively together .
”

Labour councillors Leigh Whitehouse and Sarah Rook have quit the cross-party alliance, citing policy issues and differences of opinion between members.
It follows a meeting on Wednesday, when Cllr Whitehouse called for the council to "stand fully" with the Black Lives Matter global movement and review the appropriateness of any monuments, statues and street names that commemorated people or companies involved in the slave trade.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Whitehouse said: "We must reflect on injustices in our communities and around the world.
"Now more than ever before, it is vitally important to ensure this is a turning point.
"We must stand resiliently in face of adversity supporting communities that are affected.
"We must understand and address systemic racial discrimination that exists in our own communities."
Seconding the motion, Cllr Rook said: "To say racism is down to a few bad apples ignores the systemic racism that is bedded in our society. Black Lives Matter is more about one incident, it has been around since 2013.
"Unless we tackle those structural inequalities, we are being complicit."
An amendment was submitted by Conservative Group leader Marcus Hart to also include the words "all lives matter" in the motion, and remove any reference to a review of monuments and street names.
Cllr Hart said: "We should not repeat the mistakes of our forefathers, but you cannot rewrite history."
He added: "We say all lives matter. We endorse that there should be equality with black and ethnic communities, and that should be done legally, responsively, respectively and within the rule of law, with no form of anarchy and intolerance."
Council members, including some from the Progressive Alliance, voted in favour of the amendment 18 to 13, before a further amendment was submitted by Councillor Fran Oborski for the motion to recognise that "while all lives do matter", there was a need to place focus on the fact that black lives matter.
The second amendment was passed after a tie-breaker prompted the chairman to make the deciding vote. Cllr Hart then abstained from the final vote and the amended motion was finally approved.
Wyre Forest Labour said Cllr Rook and Cllr Whitehouse would continue to serve their constituents as Labour councillors, and support any "progressive" policies put forward by the ruling coalition.
Cllr Rook, who is leader of the Labour Group, said: "It is with sadness and regret that we have reached the decision to leave the Progressive Alliance.
"We had high hopes initially that we could transform Wyre Forest for the better on environmental and housing policy as well as help create a more democratic council structure.
"Unfortunately, that has not been possible and things came to a head on Wednesday over the frustration tactics of too many fellow councillors on what is an important issue when Leigh presented his excellent Black Lives Matter motion.
"Nevertheless, we had some initial policy successes and would still like a working relationship with the Alliance. Even though we are poles apart politically, we both still want what's best for Wyre Forest.
"Both Leigh and myself wish the remaining Progressive Alliance members well in their pursuit of serving our district.
"I hope they now see us as critical friends rather than as their enemies.
"There are still many good things we can mutually do for the benefit of our local communities by working constructively together.”
Council leader Graham Ballinger said he was "sad to hear" of the Labour members' departure and wished them well for the future.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--'Lockdown miracle' for emaciated dog found in Kidderminster

A NEGLECTED dog whose horrific injuries `` turned the stomach '' of Worcestershire 's dog warden is now on the road to recovery thanks to people 's donations .
When Missy was picked up as a stray by Worcestershire Regulatory Services in Kidderminster last month , she was emaciated , dehydrated , flea-ridden and had a huge , infected mammary tumour .
Missy 's injuries from the cruelty and neglect she suffered turned dog warden Pip Singleton 's stomach .
She said : `` Even through all of her suffering , Missy still wagged her tail at us when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and injuries turned my stomach and I don ’ t know what sort of person could watch a dog in pain like this . ''
Missy was in dreadful condition , but thanks to the kindness of people who donated money towards her vet bills through a local animal charity , was able to get the treatment she needed .
She was put on anti-inflammatories , pain relief , immune aid , wound cream and has just undergone an operation to remove the tumour , which was ulcerated , and is now on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pip is now urging people to think twice before buying a pet during lockdown - and to ask for help to avoid animals suffering any neglect .
“ Having a pet of any kind is a responsibility , both financially and physically , '' said Pip .
`` They need food , exercise and love and sometimes , they get ill and need help from vets .
“ Obviously Missy ’ s owners could not afford to get the tumour treated and it has led to unnecessary suffering .
“ I understand circumstances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 but I urge everyone to think twice before investing in a pet and if they do get in financial trouble , call us so we can help before more animals go through the torture which Missy did .
`` Hopefully she will recover but she is not out of the woods yet.
” If you need help and assistance with an animal , contact the Worcestershire Regulatory Services dog and animal welfare team on 01905 822799 .

When Missy was picked up as a stray by Worcestershire Regulatory Services in Kidderminster last month, she was emaciated, dehydrated, flea-ridden and had a huge, infected mammary tumour.
Missy's injuries from the cruelty and neglect she suffered turned dog warden Pip Singleton's stomach.
She said: "Even through all of her suffering, Missy still wagged her tail at us when we picked her up.
"Her appearance and injuries turned my stomach and I don’t know what sort of person could watch a dog in pain like this."
Missy was in dreadful condition, but thanks to the kindness of people who donated money towards her vet bills through a local animal charity, was able to get the treatment she needed.
She was put on anti-inflammatories, pain relief, immune aid, wound cream and has just undergone an operation to remove the tumour, which was ulcerated, and is now on the road to recovery.
Dog warden Pip is now urging people to think twice before buying a pet during lockdown - and to ask for help to avoid animals suffering any neglect.
“Having a pet of any kind is a responsibility, both financially and physically," said Pip. "They need food, exercise and love and sometimes, they get ill and need help from vets.
“Obviously Missy’s owners could not afford to get the tumour treated and it has led to unnecessary suffering.
“I understand circumstances are even more tricky in times of Covid-19 but I urge everyone to think twice before investing in a pet and if they do get in financial trouble, call us so we can help before more animals go through the torture which Missy did.
"Hopefully she will recover but she is not out of the woods yet.”
If you need help and assistance with an animal, contact the Worcestershire Regulatory Services dog and animal welfare team on 01905 822799.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--Man arrested after thefts from Stourport tip

POLICE are on the hunt for the owner of a games console likely dumped at Stourport recycling centre after a man was arrested for theft .
A man in his 40 , from Kidderminster , was arrested on suspicion of theft near to the Bonemill Waste Recycling Centre in Minster Road on Sunday , July 12 .
The arrested man had in his possession a number of items including scrap metal , power tools and a kitchen sink .
Officers are now appealing for the owner of a games console to come forward .
Sergeant Malcolm Blythe , of West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man was arrested and released under investigation however we would very much like to hear from anyone who deposited an old gaming console and games that were likely in a white Primark bag for life and probably discarded at the recycling centre on Saturday , July 11 or the Sunday itself .
“ The centre suffers from trespassing out of hours with people stealing items of scrap and electrical equipment and yes , sometimes even the kitchen sink !
`` But while this may seem unimportant as it is rubbish anyway , what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that the ownership of all items deposited to recycling are technically transferred to the council .
`` More importantly in terms of public health , there are very real safety concerns for people trespassing on the site as dangerous items and unseen chemicals can be present and that is why there are specialist staff to identify and deposit these items safely.
” Anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously near the centre on Sunday around 8pm or can identify the games console should call 101 and quote 0075i .

A man in his 40,from Kidderminster, was arrested on suspicion of theft near to the Bonemill Waste Recycling Centre in Minster Road on Sunday, July 12.
The arrested man had in his possession a number of items including scrap metal, power tools and a kitchen sink.
Officers are now appealing for the owner of a games console to come forward.
Sergeant Malcolm Blythe, of West Mercia Police, said: “The man was arrested and released under investigation however we would very much like to hear from anyone who deposited an old gaming console and games that were likely in a white Primark bag for life and probably discarded at the recycling centre on Saturday, July 11 or the Sunday itself.
“The centre suffers from trespassing out of hours with people stealing items of scrap and electrical equipment and yes, sometimes even the kitchen sink!
"But while this may seem unimportant as it is rubbish anyway, what many people may not be aware of is that the ownership of all items deposited to recycling are technically transferred to the council.
"More importantly in terms of public health, there are very real safety concerns for people trespassing on the site as dangerous items and unseen chemicals can be present and that is why there are specialist staff to identify and deposit these items safely.”
Anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously near the centre on Sunday around 8pm or can identify the games console should call 101 and quote 0075i.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--Full list: What can and can't open in England from August 1

Boris Johnson has set out major relaxations of the coronavirus lockdown to pave the way for other industries to reopen .
The Prime Minister said on Friday that it will be up to employers to discuss with workers whether it is safe to return to the office rather than working from home from August 1 .
Mr Johnson also detailed new measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
Here 's everything you need to know about what can reopen across England from August 1 .
What can reopen from August 1 ?
• Wedding receptions for up to 30 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as long as they have measures in place to reduce Covid-19 transmission .
Pilots to reopen sports stadiums will include the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield from July 31 and the Glorious Goodwood horse racing festival from August 1 .
What ca n't reopen from August 1 ?
Those mentioned above will have to remain closed for the time being - no indication has been given so far as to when they will reopen .
In an attempt to prevent another nationwide shutdown , Mr Johnson said local authorities in England will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) to close specific premises , shut outdoor spaces and cancel events .
NHS 'planning for second spike of Covid-19 this winter' He also set out his plans to prepare the NHS for a potential second spike in Covid-19 cases coinciding with the flu season this winter , saying the nation must be “ hoping for the best , but planning for the worst ” .
Mr Johnson said that the Government will try to allow more close contact between loved ones “ when we can ” .
What else did the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advice to avoid public transport in England .
“ It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November , at the earliest , possibly in time for Christmas , ” he added .
But the relaxation of the strict rules will bring the nation into a new normal , with mask-wearing and social distancing remaining essential parts of life .
The PM ’ s easing of the work-from-home guidance potentially pits him against his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - who earlier said there is “ absolutely no reason ” to change the advice .
But the PM told his Downing Street press conference : “ It is not for government to decide how employers should run their companies and whether they want their workforces in the office or not – that is for companies .
”

The Prime Minister said on Friday that it will be up to employers to discuss with workers whether it is safe to return to the office rather than working from home from August 1. Mr Johnson also detailed new measures to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
Here's everything you need to know about what can reopen across England from August 1.
What can reopen from August 1?
Beauticians
Bowling alleys
Casinos
Indoor performances with live audiences
Leisure centres
Skating rinks
Trials beginning for sports stadiums
Wedding receptions for up to 30 people
All of those listed above can reopen as long as they have measures in place to reduce Covid-19 transmission.
Pilots to reopen sports stadiums will include the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield from July 31 and the Glorious Goodwood horse racing festival from August 1.
What can't reopen from August 1?
Nightclubs
Soft play areas
Those mentioned above will have to remain closed for the time being - no indication has been given so far as to when they will reopen.
Update on 'local lockdowns'
In an attempt to prevent another nationwide shutdown, Mr Johnson said local authorities in England will have new powers from Saturday (July 18) to close specific premises, shut outdoor spaces and cancel events.
NHS 'planning for second spike of Covid-19 this winter'
He also set out his plans to prepare the NHS for a potential second spike in Covid-19 cases coinciding with the flu season this winter, saying the nation must be “hoping for the best, but planning for the worst”.
Mr Johnson said that the Government will try to allow more close contact between loved ones “when we can”.
What else did the PM say?
Mr Johnson also immediately scrapped the advice to avoid public transport in England.
“It is my strong and sincere hope that we will be able to review the outstanding restrictions and allow a more significant return to normality from November, at the earliest, possibly in time for Christmas,” he added.
But the relaxation of the strict rules will bring the nation into a new normal, with mask-wearing and social distancing remaining essential parts of life.
The PM’s easing of the work-from-home guidance potentially pits him against his chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance - who earlier said there is “absolutely no reason” to change the advice.
But the PM told his Downing Street press conference: “It is not for government to decide how employers should run their companies and whether they want their workforces in the office or not – that is for companies.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--Lidl to create 1,000 jobs by opening a new store each week until Christmas

Supermarket chain Lidl has confirmed it will open one new store each week throughout the next six months in the run-up to Christmas .
The retailer said that 25 new stores will be opening across regions including England , Scotland and Wales - creating 1,000 new jobs .
The announcement follows the publication of Lidl ’ s site requirements brochure , which details all the areas it is looking at for new stores across Great Britain , which includes locations such as Winchester , Didsbury and Cardiff City Centre .
The discounter added that they are 'committed to fulfilling its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to construction amid the coronavirus pandemic ' .
Where are the newest Lidl stores ?
The move by the retailer follows the opening of new stores throughout the pandemic in locations such as Birmingham , Torquay and across London .
The supermarket says they have also created over 2,500 temporary jobs , to support existing teams with their efforts during the coronavirus crisis .
Where will Lidl open new supermarkets ?
While Lidl were unable to share the full list of locations with us , they did add that in the coming weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition , Lidl ’ s £1.3bn investment plans for 2021 and 2022 will 100 additional stores opening across the UK , creating about 4,000 jobs .
By the end of 2023 , Lidl aims to have 1,000 stores in Great Britain .
What have Lidl said ?
Lidl GB chief executive officer Christian Härtnagel said : `` It is testament to the continued hard work of our colleagues that we are able to continue forging ahead with our expansion plans , despite the challenging circumstances that have been faced over the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all Lidl teams for their unwavering commitment to keeping the nation fed , and we very much look forward to welcoming more people into the Lidl family in the weeks and months ahead .
“ Families up and down the country rely on Lidl for affordable , high quality groceries .
`` With the pandemic affecting household finances , our mission to offer value to as many people as possible is more important than ever and is why we remain committed to our store opening programme .
`` With new Lidl stores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more communities the opportunity to shop for our great quality products at Lidl prices . ''

The retailer said that 25 new stores will be opening across regions including England, Scotland and Wales - creating 1,000 new jobs.
The announcement follows the publication of Lidl’s site requirements brochure, which details all the areas it is looking at for new stores across Great Britain, which includes locations such as Winchester, Didsbury and Cardiff City Centre.
The discounter added that they are 'committed to fulfilling its ambitious store opening programme, despite disruption to construction amid the coronavirus pandemic'.
Where are the newest Lidl stores?
The move by the retailer follows the opening of new stores throughout the pandemic in locations such as Birmingham, Torquay and across London.
The supermarket says they have also created over 2,500 temporary jobs, to support existing teams with their efforts during the coronavirus crisis.
Where will Lidl open new supermarkets?
While Lidl were unable to share the full list of locations with us, they did add that in the coming weeks, they will open stores in:
Selhurst, London
Harrow Weald, London
Coleford, Gloucestershire
Llandudno Junction, North Wales
In addition, Lidl’s £1.3bn investment plans for 2021 and 2022 will 100 additional stores opening across the UK, creating about 4,000 jobs. By the end of 2023, Lidl aims to have 1,000 stores in Great Britain.
What have Lidl said?
Lidl GB chief executive officer Christian Härtnagel said: "It is testament to the continued hard work of our colleagues that we are able to continue forging ahead with our expansion plans, despite the challenging circumstances that have been faced over the past months.
"I am incredibly grateful to all Lidl teams for their unwavering commitment to keeping the nation fed, and we very much look forward to welcoming more people into the Lidl family in the weeks and months ahead.
“Families up and down the country rely on Lidl for affordable, high quality groceries.
"With the pandemic affecting household finances, our mission to offer value to as many people as possible is more important than ever and is why we remain committed to our store opening programme.
"With new Lidl stores opening every month, we are offering more communities the opportunity to shop for our great quality products at Lidl prices."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--Death notices from this week's Kidderminster Shuttle

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--Blue Whale Challenge: Suicide warning issued to parents

A major warning has been issued to parents after concerns that some children may be targeted by cyberbullying social media accounts .
The alert comes after a number of schools across the UK - including those in Cumbria , Cornwall , Essex and Northern Ireland - were informed that some young people have been messaged directly inviting them to participate in ‘ The Blue Whale Challenge ’ .
What is the Blue Whale Challenge ?
The challenge , which is named after the blue whale , first appeared online in 2016 and encourages teenagers , in particular girls , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ culminate in them taking their own lives .
How are the tasks given ?
Tasks are given online or through text messages , instant messages or posts on Instagram and Twitter .
Some younger children are also being targeted through a social media platform called ‘ Discord ’ .
What happens if they refuse the challenges ?
Refusal to comply with the tasks can be met with threats by the administrators to release personal information on the young people that they claim to have .
What warning signs should parents look out for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • Children receiving messages or posts relating to Jonathan Galindo , a man that may also be seen with his face painted like Mickey Mouse or a dog .
• Receiving or making references to # f57 , # f40 or # IMaWhale .
• Extreme changes to their eating or sleeping habits .
• Taking photographs of activities and sending them to accounts that parents do not recognise .
Some of these signs may not be linked with the challenge , but could still be a cause for concern .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be seen below .
Last year , there was some doubt cast over whether the challenge even existed .
The BBC ran an in-depth report online into the origins of the 'challenge ' , which is said to have started when Russian teenager Rina Palenkova posted a selfie photo in November 2015 with the caption `` Nya bye '' , the day before she took her own life .
Her death was discussed in a chat room hosted by a Russian social network , where teenagers shared scary stories - and this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ girls taking their own lives , both of which had been part of similar online groups where posts about suicide had been made , along with numerous mentions of blue whales .
In May 2016 a Russian journalist wrote a piece claiming that there were online groups where 'players ' would allegedly be set 50 tasks over 50 days and on the last day they were instructed to take their own life .
It was found that other teenagers that had died had painted pictures of blue whales , or posted photos of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beforehand .
The accuracy of this report has also been called into question - and whether the challenge is real or simply a myth remains a mystery .
Who can parents contact with concerns ?
If people believe that any child is at risk of significant harm , they are urged to contact their school and , if necessary , the police by calling on 101 or 999 .

The alert comes after a number of schools across the UK - including those in Cumbria, Cornwall, Essex and Northern Ireland - were informed that some young people have been messaged directly inviting them to participate in ‘The Blue Whale Challenge’.
What is the Blue Whale Challenge?
The challenge, which is named after the blue whale, first appeared online in 2016 and encourages teenagers, in particular girls, to undergo a series of 50 challenges that culminate in them taking their own lives.
How are the tasks given?
Tasks are given online or through text messages, instant messages or posts on Instagram and Twitter.
Some younger children are also being targeted through a social media platform called ‘Discord’.
What happens if they refuse the challenges?
Refusal to comply with the tasks can be met with threats by the administrators to release personal information on the young people that they claim to have.
What warning signs should parents look out for?
Signs to look out for include:
Children receiving messages or posts relating to Jonathan Galindo, a man that may also be seen with his face painted like Mickey Mouse or a dog.
Receiving or making references to #f57, #f40 or #IMaWhale.
Extreme changes to their eating or sleeping habits.
Wearing long-sleeved loose clothing to disguise any self-harm marks.
Taking photographs of activities and sending them to accounts that parents do not recognise.
Some of these signs may not be linked with the challenge, but could still be a cause for concern.
A picture of what Jonathan Galindo looks like can be seen below.
Is the challenge real?
Last year, there was some doubt cast over whether the challenge even existed.
The BBC ran an in-depth report online into the origins of the 'challenge', which is said to have started when Russian teenager Rina Palenkova posted a selfie photo in November 2015 with the caption "Nya bye", the day before she took her own life.
Her death was discussed in a chat room hosted by a Russian social network, where teenagers shared scary stories - and this was closely followed by two further teenage girls taking their own lives, both of which had been part of similar online groups where posts about suicide had been made, along with numerous mentions of blue whales.
In May 2016 a Russian journalist wrote a piece claiming that there were online groups where 'players' would allegedly be set 50 tasks over 50 days and on the last day they were instructed to take their own life.
It was found that other teenagers that had died had painted pictures of blue whales, or posted photos of one on their social media accounts shortly beforehand.
The accuracy of this report has also been called into question - and whether the challenge is real or simply a myth remains a mystery.
Who can parents contact with concerns?
If people believe that any child is at risk of significant harm, they are urged to contact their school and, if necessary, the police by calling on 101 or 999.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-18--ITV GMB: Dr Hilary warns of new coronavirus symptom

A TOP doctor has warned that a new `` persistent '' symptom could be added to the official list of Covid-19 symptoms .
Speaking on Good Morning Britain , Dr Hilary Jones was discussing whether skin rashes should be added to the list .
He told Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins : `` About nine per cent of people who tested positive had a skin rash .
`` The important thing to say is that the skin rash is persistent , there are lots of reasons for transient skin rashes such as allergies .
`` There 's no doubt that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was set up by King 's College , one in 11 people said that whilst they had other symptoms , they also had this persistent skin rash . ''
He added : `` We 've known about these skin rashes for quite a little while , and it seems to be particularly in children who had Covid-19 where the skin rash is present .
`` Dermatologists have been calling it 'Covid toe ' for some time , so the digits of the feet become affected via a blistery , itchy , red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ typical of Covid-19 .
`` So look for a rash , and there is pressure to include it in the official list of common , typical symptoms .
`` Along with the fever , the persistent cough and the loss of taste and smell , we would say a persistent rash .
`` And if we did that it would mean that people with that rash and no other symptoms would get tested for Covid-19 , and if necessary they would be asked to self-isolate and that would protect other people .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
What are the main symptoms of coronavirus : • a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back ( you do not need to measure your temperature ) • a new , continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour , or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours ( if you usually have a cough , it may be worse than usual ) • a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smell or taste anything , or things smell or taste different to norma To protect others , do not go to places like a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital if you have any of these symptoms .
Stay at home ( self-isolate ) and get a test .

Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Dr Hilary Jones was discussing whether skin rashes should be added to the list.
He told Ben Shephard and Charlotte Hawkins: "About nine per cent of people who tested positive had a skin rash.
"The important thing to say is that the skin rash is persistent, there are lots of reasons for transient skin rashes such as allergies.
"There's no doubt that when we looked at the tracker app that was set up by King's College, one in 11 people said that whilst they had other symptoms, they also had this persistent skin rash."
Dr Hilary Jones on TV this morning
He added: "We've known about these skin rashes for quite a little while, and it seems to be particularly in children who had Covid-19 where the skin rash is present.
"Dermatologists have been calling it 'Covid toe' for some time, so the digits of the feet become affected via a blistery, itchy, red rash, which is pathapneumonic and very typical of Covid-19.
"So look for a rash, and there is pressure to include it in the official list of common, typical symptoms.
"Along with the fever, the persistent cough and the loss of taste and smell, we would say a persistent rash.
"And if we did that it would mean that people with that rash and no other symptoms would get tested for Covid-19, and if necessary they would be asked to self-isolate and that would protect other people. So it is an important piece of research."
What are the main symptoms of coronavirus:
a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)
a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to norma
To protect others, do not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital if you have any of these symptoms. Stay at home (self-isolate) and get a test.
Good Morning Britain continues weekdays on ITV at 6am.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-19--Kidderminster policemen walking to Wales in support of NHS

TWO police officers have been inspired by Captain Tom to walk from Kidderminster to Wales to raise money for their fellow frontline workers in the NHS .
Kidderminster PCSOs Niall Ryland and Luke Holloway will attempt to trek the 63 miles to Abergavenny in 24 hours on Monday , July 27 in aid of NHS Charities Together .
Niall was originally due to cycle from Land 's End to John O'Groats - his latest annual fundraiser in memory of his dad who died of heart failure in 2017 - but training was put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intended to do a fundraising event every year and initially 2020 was going to be me cycling from Land ’ s End to John O ’ Groats , then , Covid-19 happened .
`` Lockdown ensued , training on the bike was a bust , and then at the peak of Covid being in the news , retired Captain Thomas Moore , a 99-year-old , started walking his back garden to raise money for the NHS at a time when there were significant fears that the health service was going to be strained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It gave me inspiration for a slightly different fundraiser to the one I had planned and one my colleagues , another PCSO , Luke Holloway said he wanted to join me . ''
The pair plan to set off from Kidderminster at midnight and hike through Worcester , past Malvern and into Hereford , before pushing over the Welsh border towards the Brecon Beacons .
Niall said : `` According to Google Maps , it will take us just under 22 hours to walk it , but we ’ ll be taking short @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to recharge phone batteries .
`` I ’ m quietly confident because it ’ s not mountainous , although 63 miles will be the most I 've walked in a day - and I 've done an Ironman Triathlon !
`` I think we 'll definitely need a couple of days to rest afterwards . ''
Following in the footsteps of Captain Tom , the duo are hoping to raise £1,000 for NHS Charities Together .
Niall said : `` With Covid restrictions easing , people coming out more and concerns about a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid related deaths are beginning to rise again , we want to do what we can to try and support our fellow key workers with the NHS . ''
To donate , go to justgiving.com/fundraising/Niall-Ryland1 .

Kidderminster PCSOs Niall Ryland and Luke Holloway will attempt to trek the 63 miles to Abergavenny in 24 hours on Monday, July 27 in aid of NHS Charities Together.
Niall was originally due to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats - his latest annual fundraiser in memory of his dad who died of heart failure in 2017 - but training was put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The 38-year-old said: "I intended to do a fundraising event every year and initially 2020 was going to be me cycling from Land’s End to John O’ Groats, then, Covid-19 happened.
"Lockdown ensued, training on the bike was a bust, and then at the peak of Covid being in the news, retired Captain Thomas Moore, a 99-year-old, started walking his back garden to raise money for the NHS at a time when there were significant fears that the health service was going to be strained beyond capacity during the pandemic.
"It gave me inspiration for a slightly different fundraiser to the one I had planned and one my colleagues, another PCSO, Luke Holloway said he wanted to join me."
The pair plan to set off from Kidderminster at midnight and hike through Worcester, past Malvern and into Hereford, before pushing over the Welsh border towards the Brecon Beacons.
Niall said: "According to Google Maps, it will take us just under 22 hours to walk it, but we’ll be taking short stops for food and hopefully an opportunity to recharge phone batteries.
"I’m quietly confident because it’s not mountainous, although 63 miles will be the most I've walked in a day - and I've done an Ironman Triathlon!
"I think we'll definitely need a couple of days to rest afterwards."
Following in the footsteps of Captain Tom, the duo are hoping to raise £1,000 for NHS Charities Together.
Niall said: "With Covid restrictions easing, people coming out more and concerns about a potential second peak on the way as Covid related deaths are beginning to rise again, we want to do what we can to try and support our fellow key workers with the NHS."
To donate, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/Niall-Ryland1.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-19--Full list: Who doesn't need to wear a face mask when the law changes on July 24

Members of the public are being urged not to contact their GP for a letter explaining why they do not need to wear a face covering .
It comes as the UK Government confirmed who will be exempt from wearing face coverings in shops from Friday , July 24 , when a rule making them mandatory comes into force across England .
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering ?
It is not compulsory for shop workers to wear them , but the Government says employers should recommend their use , particularly where other safety measures are not used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government guidelines , shoppers do not need to wear a face covering for the following legitimate reasons : • If a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering .
• If putting on , wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress .
• If you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading to communicate .
• Not being able to put on , wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or injury , or the risk of harm or injury , to yourself or others .
• To avoid injury , or to escape a risk of harm , and you do not have a face covering with you .
• To eat or drink , but only if you need to .
• Young children under the age of 11 .
You can also be permitted to remove a face covering if asked for age identification or if speaking to someone who relies on lip reading for communication .

It comes as the UK Government confirmed who will be exempt from wearing face coverings in shops from Friday, July 24, when a rule making them mandatory comes into force across England.
Who is exempt from wearing a face covering?
It is not compulsory for shop workers to wear them, but the Government says employers should recommend their use, particularly where other safety measures are not used such as visors.
According to the government guidelines, shoppers do not need to wear a face covering for the following legitimate reasons:
If a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering.
If putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress.
If you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading to communicate.
Not being able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability.
To avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others.
To avoid injury, or to escape a risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you.
To eat or drink, but only if you need to.
To take medication.
Young children under the age of 11.
You can also be permitted to remove a face covering if asked for age identification or if speaking to someone who relies on lip reading for communication.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-19--Driver freed after crashing into verge in Cookley

FIREFIGHTERS had to free a driver from a vehicle which crashed in Cookley in the early hours of this morning @ @ @ @ @ incident happened near Caunsall Bridge on Caunsall Road , at 2.54am .
Hereford and Worcester @ @ @ @ @ 02:54 @ HWFireWFhub were mobilised to RTC involving 1 vehicle into verge and evacuated the @ @ @ @ @ 02:54 @ HWFireWFhub were mobilised to RTC involving 1 vehicle into verge and evacuated the @ @ @ @ @ ( @ HWFireControl ) July 19 , 2020


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-19--Kidderminster sports bar Cue and Brew to reopen under new owner

A POPULAR sports bar in Kidderminster will reopen under new ownership next week .
Regulars at Cue and Brew were told in June that the bar would not reopen after the coronavirus lockdown because the former owners were moving on from the business after 10 years .
Now , a new owner has taken the business on and will be welcoming customers back to the Prospect Hill bar on Wednesday , July 22 .
Cue and Brew 's new owner Jake Haynes , 25 , said : `` I 've ran pubs in Telford and I 've always had an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Shropshire and I used to play youth darts for the county , so sport is something I 've always been into .
`` I saw a post on Facebook to say Cue and Brew would n't be reopening so I came over to have a look .
`` The last owner Darren said the lease was coming to an end and he felt he had done what he could with the place so it was time for someone else to take it on . ''
Jake 's last job was running a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he lives , but he plans to relocate to Kidderminster when Cue and Brew reopens .
Apart from a fresh paint job , Jake says he intends to keep the bar as it is for now , but said he hopes to do a refurbishment in future .
He said : `` It 's all staying the same at the minute - we 're still doing food and it will be the same pub everyone loves .
`` There 's a big community feel with the customers at Cue and Brew - it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course they 're worried about who 's coming in to take it over .
`` I 've had lots of people reach out already to say how excited they are to come back which is really nice .
`` I 'm just looking forward to welcoming them back .
I do n't want anyone to think the place is going to radically change .
`` I want to keep it the same but do little bits to make it my version of Cue and Brew - it will be the same but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be in place when the pub reopens , including tables moved to one metre apart and hand sanitiser stations .
Search Cue and Brew Sports Kidderminster on Facebook for more .

Regulars at Cue and Brew were told in June that the bar would not reopen after the coronavirus lockdown because the former owners were moving on from the business after 10 years.
Now, a new owner has taken the business on and will be welcoming customers back to the Prospect Hill bar on Wednesday, July 22.
Cue and Brew's new owner Jake Haynes, 25, said: "I've ran pubs in Telford and I've always had an interest in pool - I played pool for Shropshire and I used to play youth darts for the county, so sport is something I've always been into.
"I saw a post on Facebook to say Cue and Brew wouldn't be reopening so I came over to have a look.
"The last owner Darren said the lease was coming to an end and he felt he had done what he could with the place so it was time for someone else to take it on."
Jake's last job was running a Marston's pub in Telford, where he lives, but he plans to relocate to Kidderminster when Cue and Brew reopens.
Apart from a fresh paint job, Jake says he intends to keep the bar as it is for now, but said he hopes to do a refurbishment in future.
He said: "It's all staying the same at the minute - we're still doing food and it will be the same pub everyone loves.
"There's a big community feel with the customers at Cue and Brew - it's a family for them - so of course they're worried about who's coming in to take it over.
"I've had lots of people reach out already to say how excited they are to come back which is really nice.
"I'm just looking forward to welcoming them back. I don't want anyone to think the place is going to radically change.
"I want to keep it the same but do little bits to make it my version of Cue and Brew - it will be the same but different."
Social distancing measures will be in place when the pub reopens, including tables moved to one metre apart and hand sanitiser stations.
Search Cue and Brew Sports Kidderminster on Facebook for more.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-07-19--You could now be a different star sign - according to NASA

A new zodiac sign has been introduced - meaning that your star sign may have changed .
Whether you believe their mystic powers hold real sway over the events in your life or not , it is likely that you 've paid at least some attention to your star sign over the years .
Maybe you 've checked a horoscope when desperate times call for life guidance .
Or on the other hand , you may have butted heads over your superior status as an Aries when compared to your friends ' signs .
Either way , some are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defined you has probably changed .
Why has it changed ?
It 's all to do with the introduction of Ophiuchus , a 13th house that shifts the position of the other zodiac signs in the calendar significantly .
What is the new sign ?
The new sign is called Ophiuchus - which nestles between Scorpio and Sagittarius - so every other sign ’ s dates have moved to make way for it .
Ophiuchus shares many of the same characteristics as Sagittarius , and people with its sign are described as ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buzz surrounding Ophiuchus ’ allegedly 'new ' inclusion among the stars , the idea for a new sign seems to have originated as far back as 1970 , when astrologer Stephen Schmidt proposed a new , 14 sign zodiac .
Why has Ophiuchus been introduced ?
While astrology and the signs of the zodiac may be rooted in pseudoscience , the reason for the addition of Ophiuchus is at least the result of some evidence-based fact .
In the thousands of years that have passed since the Babylonians first invented the 12 signs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the constellations have changed slightly when viewed from the Earth .
But while additional signs have previously been the realm of astrologists and soothsayers , this is the first time Ophiuchus ' inclusion has been 'officially ' recognised by the scientists at NASA .
So has my star sign has changed ?
Well , the answer is fairly tricky - yes , and no .
To include Ophiuchus in the zodiac is to confuse star signs with constellations .
The signs of the zodiac are a 12 fold division of the ecliptic - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sun - devised by the Babylonians more than 2,500 years ago .
Each sign spans 30 degrees of celestial longitude , which is the approximate distance the sun travels in a month .
However , constellations are unequal in size and are only loosely associated with the signs of the zodiac .
They do not generally coincide with the existing signs they are associated with anyway , so if you 're outraged by the 'change ' in your star sign , then do n't worry .
What are the 'new ' star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a change though , the new zodiac dates as proposed by NASA are as follows :

Whether you believe their mystic powers hold real sway over the events in your life or not, it is likely that you've paid at least some attention to your star sign over the years.
Maybe you've checked a horoscope when desperate times call for life guidance.
Or on the other hand, you may have butted heads over your superior status as an Aries when compared to your friends' signs.
Either way, some are now claiming that the zodiacal talisman that's defined you has probably changed.
Why has it changed?
It's all to do with the introduction of Ophiuchus, a 13th house that shifts the position of the other zodiac signs in the calendar significantly.
What is the new sign?
The new sign is called Ophiuchus - which nestles between Scorpio and Sagittarius - so every other sign’s dates have moved to make way for it.
Ophiuchus shares many of the same characteristics as Sagittarius, and people with its sign are described as ‘healers and light-bearers’.
Despite the buzz surrounding Ophiuchus’ allegedly 'new' inclusion among the stars, the idea for a new sign seems to have originated as far back as 1970, when astrologer Stephen Schmidt proposed a new, 14 sign zodiac.
Why has Ophiuchus been introduced?
While astrology and the signs of the zodiac may be rooted in pseudoscience, the reason for the addition of Ophiuchus is at least the result of some evidence-based fact.
In the thousands of years that have passed since the Babylonians first invented the 12 signs of the zodiac, the positions of the constellations have changed slightly when viewed from the Earth.
But while additional signs have previously been the realm of astrologists and soothsayers, this is the first time Ophiuchus' inclusion has been 'officially' recognised by the scientists at NASA.
So has my star sign has changed?
Well, the answer is fairly tricky - yes, and no. To include Ophiuchus in the zodiac is to confuse star signs with constellations.
The signs of the zodiac are a 12 fold division of the ecliptic - the plane of Earth's orbit around the sun - devised by the Babylonians more than 2,500 years ago.
Each sign spans 30 degrees of celestial longitude, which is the approximate distance the sun travels in a month.
However, constellations are unequal in size and are only loosely associated with the signs of the zodiac.
They do not generally coincide with the existing signs they are associated with anyway, so if you're outraged by the 'change' in your star sign, then don't worry.
It hasn't really altered.
What are the 'new' star sign dates?
If you're after a change though, the new zodiac dates as proposed by NASA are as follows: