kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-21--New Covid advisors out on streets in Worcestershire

NEW Covid advisors are now in place across Worcestershire to help provide advice and guidance during the pandemic .
The advisors are now out and about on the streets , offering help to residents and business to ensure that current Covid-19 regulations and guidance are adhered to .
They are being deployed across the county , as necessary , to meet local need and to provide support to any areas of concern .
Councillor John Smith , chairman of Worcestershire ’ s Health and Wellbeing Board , said : “ I ’ m pleased that we now have some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our local communities and businesses during these difficult times .
“ There ’ s a lot of misinformation out there and the role of these advisors is to ensure that people have the correct information to make informed choices .
“ They have generally received a positive response as everyone has recognised the benefit of being reminded to maintain a safe social distance and wear a face covering when required to.
” 13 Advisors have been fully trained and are now in position , with a view to having 20 in total to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapidly changing situation and the experiences of the Advisors on the ground will help to direct where additional support is needed .
The team will help promote the Here 2 Help support available and provide advice to businesses to ensure workplaces are safe .
The new roles have been created in partnership between the six county district council ’ s and are supported by Worcestershire County Council , thanks to funding from central government .

The advisors are now out and about on the streets, offering help to residents and business to ensure that current Covid-19 regulations and guidance are adhered to.
They are being deployed across the county, as necessary, to meet local need and to provide support to any areas of concern.
Councillor John Smith, chairman of Worcestershire’s Health and Wellbeing Board, said: “I’m pleased that we now have some of the advisors on board to help support our local communities and businesses during these difficult times.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there and the role of these advisors is to ensure that people have the correct information to make informed choices.
“They have generally received a positive response as everyone has recognised the benefit of being reminded to maintain a safe social distance and wear a face covering when required to.”
13 Advisors have been fully trained and are now in position, with a view to having 20 in total to cover the county. It is a rapidly changing situation and the experiences of the Advisors on the ground will help to direct where additional support is needed.
The team will help promote the Here 2 Help support available and provide advice to businesses to ensure workplaces are safe.
The new roles have been created in partnership between the six county district council’s and are supported by Worcestershire County Council, thanks to funding from central government.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-21--Wolverley couple wowed by success of lockdown Christmas cards

CHRISTMAS cards featuring drawings of Wolverley 's amazing architecture have been selling like hotcakes - and now the villager behind the sketches is making his own 2021 calendar .
Colin Evans has been drawing various buildings around Wolverley since he moved to the village from Sutton Coldfield two years ago and designed a logo for his friend and local business owner Gil Hancox , of Gil 's Tearoom .
One of Colin and Gail 's Christmas card designs - St John 's Church in Wolverley Colin , 56 , told The Shuttle : `` Illustrating and writing children ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mine and I 've been painting people ’ s houses in my own style for a while .
We 're very rich with architecture around here , it 's fabulous .
`` With the pandemic , we 've seen a lot of locals who ca n't get out and my wife Gail suggested making some Christmas cards for people .
There are eight Christmas card designs featuring local landmarks from around the village '' We formulated the idea together - I could do the artwork and she could market them .
We decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people could come and pick them up .
`` We put a post out on the local Facebook group and it 's gone crazy .
It 's amazing the community spirit in our little village . ''
A sketch from Colin and Gail 's upcoming calendar - The Lock pub Colin and Gail have created eight Christmas card designs including wintery sketches of the two local pubs , The Lock and The Queen 's Head , St John 's Church , the village 's Costcutter and Wolverley CE Secondary School .
In response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duo have also launched a calendar , featuring more of Colin 's sketches of village landmarks .
Over 50 have been sold already .
A pack of eight Christmas cards costs £5 .
Calendars cost £7 .
Email colin5029 @ hotmail.co.uk to order .

Colin Evans has been drawing various buildings around Wolverley since he moved to the village from Sutton Coldfield two years ago and designed a logo for his friend and local business owner Gil Hancox, of Gil's Tearoom.
One of Colin and Gail's Christmas card designs - St John's Church in Wolverley
Colin, 56, told The Shuttle: "Illustrating and writing children’s books has been a long-time hobby of mine and I've been painting people’s houses in my own style for a while. We're very rich with architecture around here, it's fabulous.
"With the pandemic, we've seen a lot of locals who can't get out and my wife Gail suggested making some Christmas cards for people.
There are eight Christmas card designs featuring local landmarks from around the village
"We formulated the idea together - I could do the artwork and she could market them. We decided we could deliver them to people or people could come and pick them up.
"We put a post out on the local Facebook group and it's gone crazy. It's amazing the community spirit in our little village."
A sketch from Colin and Gail's upcoming calendar - The Lock pub
Colin and Gail have created eight Christmas card designs including wintery sketches of the two local pubs, The Lock and The Queen's Head, St John's Church, the village's Costcutter and Wolverley CE Secondary School.
In response to the cards' success, the duo have also launched a calendar, featuring more of Colin's sketches of village landmarks. Over 50 have been sold already.
A pack of eight Christmas cards costs £5. Calendars cost £7. Email colin5029@hotmail.co.uk to order.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-21--Fire door test failures at hundreds of Wyre Forest flats

FRONT entrance doors of 800 flats across Wyre Forest have failed fire safety tests and are having to be replaced .
But tenants have been assured that fire safety precautions have been stepped up while the nine-month replacement programme is completed .
The flats – all low rise and mainly in Kidderminster - are owned by The Community Housing Group who have written to all the tenants and local councillors to explain the situation and reassure them .
Work was scheduled to start this week , with flats at Masefield Gardens top of the list , followed by Wordsworth Crescent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full schedule is on the housing group ’ s website .
New fire risk assessments have been carried out at the flats , and weekly inspections have been put in place as part of a series of measures to increase fire safety while the work is being done .
The housing group said : “ The doors were manufactured by a specialist fire door company and should have met fire safety standards .
However , when we recently sent a selection of doors for independent testing , they did not meet the fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to replace all the doors as a precaution.
” The Community Housing Group said it has consulted with the fire service to develop a `` robust and accelerated '' replacement programme .
• Weekly inspections to make sure combustible items or other obstructions have not been stored on escape routes • Prioritising fire related repairs that come into our contact centre and responding within 24 hours .
The flats have smoke alarms and have Electrical Conditions Inspection Reports .
Residents are being given additional advice about fire safety in the home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residents .

But tenants have been assured that fire safety precautions have been stepped up while the nine-month replacement programme is completed.
The flats – all low rise and mainly in Kidderminster - are owned by The Community Housing Group who have written to all the tenants and local councillors to explain the situation and reassure them.
Work was scheduled to start this week, with flats at Masefield Gardens top of the list, followed by Wordsworth Crescent and Keats Place in Kidderminster.
The full schedule is on the housing group’s website.
New fire risk assessments have been carried out at the flats, and weekly inspections have been put in place as part of a series of measures to increase fire safety while the work is being done.
The housing group said: “The doors were manufactured by a specialist fire door company and should have met fire safety standards. However, when we recently sent a selection of doors for independent testing, they did not meet the fire resistance test. We have taken the decision to replace all the doors as a precaution.”
The Community Housing Group said it has consulted with the fire service to develop a "robust and accelerated" replacement programme.
New precautions include:
• Weekly inspections to make sure combustible items or other obstructions have not been stored on escape routes
• Prioritising fire related repairs that come into our contact centre and responding within 24 hours.
• A fire risk assessment
The flats have smoke alarms and have Electrical Conditions Inspection Reports.
Residents are being given additional advice about fire safety in the home, and there is extra help for vulnerable residents.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-21--New live music venue Dakota Lounge opening in Kidderminster

A NEW live music venue showcasing local talent and tribute bands is due to open in Kidderminster next year .
The site of the old Vault Bar in Oxford Street has been taken over by former DJ Massimo D'Oriano , from Kidderminster , and is currently undergoing a major refurbishment , ready to reopen as Dakota Lounge in March .
Massimo , 45 , hopes to eventually open the venue four nights a week but plans to start by hosting tribute bands on a Friday and Saturday night .
In time , the new owner intends to put on local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday night and possibly hold jazz and blues nights on a Sunday , with potential for open mic and comedy nights in the future .
Dakota Lounge is due to open at the old Vault Bar in Kidderminster in March Massimo told The Shuttle : `` We 're aiming to open Dakota Lounge in March or as soon as the restrictions allow us to do it properly .
`` The venue is having a big refurb , which is ongoing - we 've built a new stage , knocked the old bar out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon - it 's all having a makeover .
It 's a substantial investment . ''
Having worked as a DJ for 25 years , Massimo also headed his own sound and lighting company , worked in a recording studio , and previously ran a nightclub in Redditch .
He said : `` I 've always worked with live music , I love it .
I 'm done with DJing now and this is my next course of action . ''
Massimo says Kidderminster is calling out for its own live music venue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell-out success once lockdown restrictions are lifted .
`` There 's definitely a market for a venue like this in Kidderminster , '' he said .
`` By the time Dakota Lounge opens , people wo n't have had a proper night out in a year .
Fred Zeppelin are among the first bands set to take to the Dakota Lounge stage in 2021 '' There are lots of bands in Kidderminster - you would be amazed how many artists are out there - but they 've got no where to play .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to wait for someone to put an event on .
`` It 's bound to take a good six months at least before we ’ re back to normality but I think after that , we ’ ll be packed . ''
Tickets have already started selling for live music nights scheduled for March and April 2021 , including tribute acts Pure Queen , Duran , The Faux Fighters UK , The Smiths LTD and Fred Zeppelin .

The site of the old Vault Bar in Oxford Street has been taken over by former DJ Massimo D'Oriano, from Kidderminster, and is currently undergoing a major refurbishment, ready to reopen as Dakota Lounge in March.
Massimo, 45, hopes to eventually open the venue four nights a week but plans to start by hosting tribute bands on a Friday and Saturday night.
In time, the new owner intends to put on local and up and coming bands on a Thursday night and possibly hold jazz and blues nights on a Sunday, with potential for open mic and comedy nights in the future.
Dakota Lounge is due to open at the old Vault Bar in Kidderminster in March
Massimo told The Shuttle: "We're aiming to open Dakota Lounge in March or as soon as the restrictions allow us to do it properly.
"The venue is having a big refurb, which is ongoing - we've built a new stage, knocked the old bar out, we're installing sound and lighting soon - it's all having a makeover. It's a substantial investment."
Having worked as a DJ for 25 years, Massimo also headed his own sound and lighting company, worked in a recording studio, and previously ran a nightclub in Redditch.
He said: "I've always worked with live music, I love it. I'm done with DJing now and this is my next course of action."
Massimo says Kidderminster is calling out for its own live music venue and hopes Dakota Lounge will be a sell-out success once lockdown restrictions are lifted.
"There's definitely a market for a venue like this in Kidderminster," he said. "By the time Dakota Lounge opens, people won't have had a proper night out in a year.
Fred Zeppelin are among the first bands set to take to the Dakota Lounge stage in 2021
"There are lots of bands in Kidderminster - you would be amazed how many artists are out there - but they've got no where to play. There's the town hall but they have to wait for someone to put an event on.
"It's bound to take a good six months at least before we’re back to normality but I think after that, we’ll be packed."
Tickets have already started selling for live music nights scheduled for March and April 2021, including tribute acts Pure Queen, Duran, The Faux Fighters UK, The Smiths LTD and Fred Zeppelin.
For more information, visit dakotalounge.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Time capsule of Covid-19 memories to be buried in Kidderminster

A HERITAGE group has launched a project to give future generations a snapshot of what life was like in Kidderminster during the coronavirus pandemic .
The town 's Heritage Opportunities Group ( HOGs ) came up with the idea to bury a time capsule containing a treasure trove of items illustrating how Covid-19 has affected residents ' lives .
Chairman Colin Hill said : “ Such extraordinary changes to our lives need to be recorded for posterity and we think this is a great way of talking directly to people in the future .
Kidderminster sisters Imogen and Alexie Bayliss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hand-painted banner during a Clap For Carers tribute in April “ We are asking townsfolk to come up with as many ideas as possible to provide a glimpse of how the virus impacted on every aspect of our community.
” HOGs are appealing for any Covid-related memorabilia , particularly photos such as neighbours clapping for the NHS or showing food deliveries for the vulnerable and other acts of kindness .
Creative artwork such as rainbows for the NHS and signage will also be an important part of the capsule ’ s content @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fancy dress to make his customers laugh during the pandemic This can include the imaginative way some people put over messages relating to mask wearing , social distancing and hand-washing .
Or contributors may like to write articles outlining how the pandemic caused disruption to family events such as births , marriages and funerals or to exams , concerts , the arts and sport .
And from the workplace , employees and bosses may like to contribute general information about how their jobs or companies were affected .
Mr Hill added : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contribute anything that shows how their daily lives have been altered – it has been a unique year and there are many stories to be told.
” HOGs administrator Jo Bowkett outside the Kidderminster Museum of Carpet where time capsule donations can be deposited Residents are being asked to take their contributions to the Museum of Carpet in Green Street from Saturday , December 5 .
It is open on Tuesdays , Wednesdays , Thursdays and Saturdays from 10am until 1.30pm each day It is hoped the capsule will then be buried in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .

The town's Heritage Opportunities Group (HOGs) came up with the idea to bury a time capsule containing a treasure trove of items illustrating how Covid-19 has affected residents' lives.
Chairman Colin Hill said: “Such extraordinary changes to our lives need to be recorded for posterity and we think this is a great way of talking directly to people in the future.
Kidderminster sisters Imogen and Alexie Bayliss sang to their street in front of a hand-painted banner during a Clap For Carers tribute in April
“We are asking townsfolk to come up with as many ideas as possible to provide a glimpse of how the virus impacted on every aspect of our community.”
HOGs are appealing for any Covid-related memorabilia, particularly photos such as neighbours clapping for the NHS or showing food deliveries for the vulnerable and other acts of kindness.
Creative artwork such as rainbows for the NHS and signage will also be an important part of the capsule’s content.
Kidderminster postie Gareth Webster dressed in fancy dress to make his customers laugh during the pandemic
This can include the imaginative way some people put over messages relating to mask wearing, social distancing and hand-washing. Or contributors may like to write articles outlining how the pandemic caused disruption to family events such as births, marriages and funerals or to exams, concerts, the arts and sport.
And from the workplace, employees and bosses may like to contribute general information about how their jobs or companies were affected.
Mr Hill added: “We want people of all ages to contribute anything that shows how their daily lives have been altered – it has been a unique year and there are many stories to be told.”
HOGs administrator Jo Bowkett outside the Kidderminster Museum of Carpet where time capsule donations can be deposited
Residents are being asked to take their contributions to the Museum of Carpet in Green Street from Saturday, December 5. It is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10am until 1.30pm each day
It is hoped the capsule will then be buried in a suitable location within Kidderminster sometime next year.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--When should you put your Christmas tree up and take it down?

Experts have cleared up an age-old question as to when is the right time to put a Christmas tree and take it down .
Horticultural experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk also offered essential safety advice and tips on popular traditions .
The best and worst locations to place a Christmas tree in the home and the best approach to take with decorating it have also been revealed .
What have experts said ?
A spokesperson for GardeningExpress.co.uk said : “ After the ups and downs of 2020 , many families are now looking to Christmas as a beacon of hope – either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year or redeem it entirely .
“ We ’ re still unsure what Covid-19 restrictions are going to look like over the Christmas period but Brits are still keen to get their trees up and homes decorated ahead of the big day .
“ But if you ’ re opting for a real tree , you shouldn ’ t put it up too early or leave it up too late for a variety of reasons including quality , safety , tradition and superstition .
“ Putting yours in the wrong spot in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families a host of unnecessary problems.
” 1 .
When should Christmas Trees be put up ?
There ’ s no fixed date that ’ s correct , with public displays in prominent locations launching throughout November and Advent dictating four Sundays before Christmas .
Many families will wait until the 1st of December or the first weekend of December to put up a domestic tree , but real trees only survive in top condition , even if looked after properly , for around a month .
So , it ’ s probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of December before purchasing a Christmas tree , so that it ’ s still looking it ’ s best until it ’ s taken down after New Year celebrations are over .
2 .
Where should domestic trees be located ?
Every home is different , but the key things to consider are visibility and obstructions – there ’ s no point having a Christmas tree at home if it ’ s hidden away in the spare bedroom where it can ’ t be enjoyed , but it shouldn ’ t be placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas , tables or seating .
Traditional locations including a corner of the living room , a large hallway or the dining room are all acceptable , but avoid the kitchen , unused rooms or anywhere upstairs .
It ’ s also vital to pick a spot that ’ s close to a power outlet , so there aren ’ t extension cables stretching across the house if using electric Christmas tree lights , and far away from any air vents , so that your cut real tree doesn ’ t dry out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decorations be used ?
Decorations on domestic Christmas trees should be used sparingly , with a view to quality over quantity for a dignified celebration of the festive season .
Real trees need to be allowed to breath and the natural branches seen , so don ’ t strangle it with any more than a single spiral of lights and keep tinsel away from the tree completely .
A small amount of larger wooden , glass and metal decorations , generally in traditional red and white , will probably look much better dangling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little plastic baubles in garish colours .
Your tree should be topped with a simple star .
4 .
Are there any safety considerations ?
Make sure your tree is robust enough to resist toppling by pets bumping into it and stood so that children can ’ t bump into it .
To avoid unnecessary fire hazards , use only safe low energy lights , keep your Christmas tree well-watered and dispose of it as soon as it appears too dry .
Attach decorations to branches securely and tie or firmly hook them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hang too loosely which could mean they possibly fall and break .
If using a ladder to put up a tall tree or decorations , ensure it is stable and you have assistance – this applies if it ’ s heavy too .
5 .
When should Christmas Trees be taken down ?
It ’ s long been considered unlucky to keep your Christmas tree , as well as other decorations , up beyond the Twelfth Night after the big day itself .
But avoiding misfortune is tricky because for some the Twelfth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to mark the visit to Jesus by the Three Wise Men , whilst others believe the Twelfth Night that marks the end of Christmas is the 5th of January , if you count twelve nights including Christmas Day night .
Any Christmas Trees that are still standing on the 7th of January , though , could well bring bad luck according to all .

Horticultural experts from GardeningExpress.co.uk also offered essential safety advice and tips on popular traditions.
The best and worst locations to place a Christmas tree in the home and the best approach to take with decorating it have also been revealed.
What have experts said?
A spokesperson for GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “After the ups and downs of 2020, many families are now looking to Christmas as a beacon of hope – either to mark the end of a terrible year or redeem it entirely.
“We’re still unsure what Covid-19 restrictions are going to look like over the Christmas period but Brits are still keen to get their trees up and homes decorated ahead of the big day.
“But if you’re opting for a real tree, you shouldn’t put it up too early or leave it up too late for a variety of reasons including quality, safety, tradition and superstition.
“Putting yours in the wrong spot in the house or over-decorating it can also cause families a host of unnecessary problems.”
Christmas tree top questions - Here's what experts say:
1. When should Christmas Trees be put up?
There’s no fixed date that’s correct, with public displays in prominent locations launching throughout November and Advent dictating four Sundays before Christmas.
Many families will wait until the 1st of December or the first weekend of December to put up a domestic tree, but real trees only survive in top condition, even if looked after properly, for around a month.
So, it’s probably best to wait until the second week of December before purchasing a Christmas tree, so that it’s still looking it’s best until it’s taken down after New Year celebrations are over.
2. Where should domestic trees be located?
Every home is different, but the key things to consider are visibility and obstructions – there’s no point having a Christmas tree at home if it’s hidden away in the spare bedroom where it can’t be enjoyed, but it shouldn’t be placed in the way of doors, storage areas, tables or seating.
Traditional locations including a corner of the living room, a large hallway or the dining room are all acceptable, but avoid the kitchen, unused rooms or anywhere upstairs.
It’s also vital to pick a spot that’s close to a power outlet, so there aren’t extension cables stretching across the house if using electric Christmas tree lights, and far away from any air vents, so that your cut real tree doesn’t dry out too quickly.
3. How should decorations be used?
Decorations on domestic Christmas trees should be used sparingly, with a view to quality over quantity for a dignified celebration of the festive season.
Real trees need to be allowed to breath and the natural branches seen, so don’t strangle it with any more than a single spiral of lights and keep tinsel away from the tree completely.
A small amount of larger wooden, glass and metal decorations, generally in traditional red and white, will probably look much better dangling from the branches than a sea of little plastic baubles in garish colours. Your tree should be topped with a simple star.
4. Are there any safety considerations?
Make sure your tree is robust enough to resist toppling by pets bumping into it and stood so that children can’t bump into it.
To avoid unnecessary fire hazards, use only safe low energy lights, keep your Christmas tree well-watered and dispose of it as soon as it appears too dry.
Attach decorations to branches securely and tie or firmly hook them in place, rather than letting them hang too loosely which could mean they possibly fall and break.
If using a ladder to put up a tall tree or decorations, ensure it is stable and you have assistance – this applies if it’s heavy too.
5. When should Christmas Trees be taken down?
It’s long been considered unlucky to keep your Christmas tree, as well as other decorations, up beyond the Twelfth Night after the big day itself.
But avoiding misfortune is tricky because for some the Twelfth Night is the 6th of January, to mark the visit to Jesus by the Three Wise Men, whilst others believe the Twelfth Night that marks the end of Christmas is the 5th of January, if you count twelve nights including Christmas Day night.
Any Christmas Trees that are still standing on the 7th of January, though, could well bring bad luck according to all.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Tesco reveals its hidden message to shoppers on receipts

Shoppers at Tesco have uncovered a brand-new secret message that appears on every receipt .
The feature is n't new , as earlier this year the supermarket chain published a message on its reciepts to share support for those experiencing domestic abuse during the first national lockdown .
But now Tesco have confirmed that a new 'hidden ' message now features on its reciepts - which the company hopes will help and support customers .
So what have Tesco said about it ?
Here 's what you need to know .
What does the 'hidden ' Tesco receipt message say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bottom of Tesco 's receipts - reads : `` If you are lonely or finding it difficult to cope during these uncertain times , call the free and confidential British Red Cross coronavirus support line on 0808 196 3651 , open daily from 10am to 6pm . ''
What have Tesco said about the message ?
A spokesperson from Tesco told us : `` We know that many people may be finding lockdown lonely or isolating which is why we are raising awareness of the Coronavirus helpline on our receipts .
`` This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is run by our charity partner , British Red Cross .
`` We will continue to promote this number on our receipts over the next couple of months , as well as through posters in our stores . ''
What have the British Red Cross said ?
In a statement on their website highlighting their partnership with Tesco , the organisation said : `` Our partnership with Tesco has become even more critical during the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Tesco has supported us to reach the most vulnerable people in society through : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to help keep communities safe today and build resilience tomorrow through projects such as the coronavirus support line and doorstep support .
`` Signposting Tesco customers to our coronavirus support line for practical and emotional support through in store promotion and marketing campaigns .
`` Providing mobile devices and data packages to support isolated people such as refugees and asylum seekers , which help them stay connected to their friends , families and communities .
`` Giving our staff and volunteers priority access to all Tesco stores when shopping for vulnerable customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' message on Tesco 's reciepts - and why was it there ?
Earlier in the year , it was revealed that domestic violence cases had risen by an estimated 20 per cent since the beginning of first national lockdown .
After the harrowing figures were released , Tesco decided to step in and help in the battle against domestic violence .
The previous message - which was located at the bottom of Tesco 's receipts - stated : `` Help is available if you 're experiencing domestic abuse .
`` Call the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 247 .
Download the Brightsky App . ''

The feature isn't new, as earlier this year the supermarket chain published a message on its reciepts to share support for those experiencing domestic abuse during the first national lockdown.
But now Tesco have confirmed that a new 'hidden' message now features on its reciepts - which the company hopes will help and support customers.
So what have Tesco said about it? Here's what you need to know.
What does the 'hidden' Tesco receipt message say?
The message - located at the bottom of Tesco's receipts - reads: "If you are lonely or finding it difficult to cope during these uncertain times, call the free and confidential British Red Cross coronavirus support line on 0808 196 3651, open daily from 10am to 6pm."
What have Tesco said about the message?
A spokesperson from Tesco told us: "We know that many people may be finding lockdown lonely or isolating which is why we are raising awareness of the Coronavirus helpline on our receipts.
"This is a free and confidential helpline which is run by our charity partner, British Red Cross.
"We will continue to promote this number on our receipts over the next couple of months, as well as through posters in our stores."
What have the British Red Cross said?
In a statement on their website highlighting their partnership with Tesco, the organisation said: "Our partnership with Tesco has become even more critical during the coronavirus pandemic.
"Tesco has supported us to reach the most vulnerable people in society through:
"Donating £2 million to our coronavirus response to help keep communities safe today and build resilience tomorrow through projects such as the coronavirus support line and doorstep support.
"Signposting Tesco customers to our coronavirus support line for practical and emotional support through in store promotion and marketing campaigns.
"Providing mobile devices and data packages to support isolated people such as refugees and asylum seekers, which help them stay connected to their friends, families and communities.
"Giving our staff and volunteers priority access to all Tesco stores when shopping for vulnerable customers."
What was the previous 'hidden' message on Tesco's reciepts - and why was it there?
Earlier in the year, it was revealed that domestic violence cases had risen by an estimated 20 per cent since the beginning of first national lockdown.
After the harrowing figures were released, Tesco decided to step in and help in the battle against domestic violence.
The previous message - which was located at the bottom of Tesco's receipts - stated: "Help is available if you're experiencing domestic abuse.
"Call the National Domestic Abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247. Download the Brightsky App."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Donations will fund new sensory garden and play area in Cookley

PLANS for a sensory garden for people with dementia and a new children 's play area will be able to move forwards in Cookley thanks to a generous donation from local rotary groups .
The team behind Cookley in Bloom plans to create a sensory garden in Lea Lane , primarily for use by a local dementia group but which will be open to all .
The project will also see an orchard planted using Worcestershire fruit trees , a new children 's play area , a wildlife area , and a grow tunnel to ensure a continued supply of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pebble pathway will also be created , formed of stones painted by members of the community to reflect the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the village .
Arvind Sharma , president of Kinver Rotary Club , Bill Steadman and Robbie Quinton , from Cookley in Bloom , and Alan Stanley , president of Kidderminster Rotary Club Rotary clubs in Kinver and Kidderminster joined forces to contribute £750 towards the project and money has also been raised through plant sales and raffles .
Bill Southam , from the Cookley in Bloom group , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the two Rotary clubs will help us to move forward with our plans for the future and continue the embryonic work of the group .
`` We have already raised money through crowd funding , plant sales , and raffles , however it is calculated that we will need approximately £2,000 to complete the work.
” Since 2018 , the Cookley in Bloom group has created a community garden where vegetables can be harvested by villagers and a lending library cabinet , converted a neglected roadside area into a flower bed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and subsequently extended the community garden by clearing a patch of adjacent wasteland and constructing a rockery .

The team behind Cookley in Bloom plans to create a sensory garden in Lea Lane, primarily for use by a local dementia group but which will be open to all.
The project will also see an orchard planted using Worcestershire fruit trees, a new children's play area, a wildlife area, and a grow tunnel to ensure a continued supply of plants for the scheme.
A commemorative pebble pathway will also be created, formed of stones painted by members of the community to reflect the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the village.
Arvind Sharma, president of Kinver Rotary Club, Bill Steadman and Robbie Quinton, from Cookley in Bloom, and Alan Stanley, president of Kidderminster Rotary Club
Rotary clubs in Kinver and Kidderminster joined forces to contribute £750 towards the project and money has also been raised through plant sales and raffles.
Bill Southam, from the Cookley in Bloom group, said: "This most welcome donation from the two Rotary clubs will help us to move forward with our plans for the future and continue the embryonic work of the group.
"We have already raised money through crowd funding, plant sales, and raffles, however it is calculated that we will need approximately £2,000 to complete the work.”
Since 2018, the Cookley in Bloom group has created a community garden where vegetables can be harvested by villagers and a lending library cabinet, converted a neglected roadside area into a flower bed and wildflower area, renovated neglected passageways, and subsequently extended the community garden by clearing a patch of adjacent wasteland and constructing a rockery.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--How bad parking can cost lives

How bad parking can cost lives

BAD and inconsiderate parkers are putting lives at risk across Worcestershire , say the fire service .
They have issued a plea to drivers to make sure they don ’ t park thoughtlessly and dangerously delay a fire engine getting to an emergency call .
The service already have the problem of trying to weave their way through rush hour traffic for many of their calls .
In fact new figures show the most common time for car crash incidents is the morning and evening commuter rush .
So that last thing they need is not to be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave enough space between them in crowded streets .
The simple message is that a fire engine is one and a half times the width of a car and so drivers need to gauge that when they decide if they have left enough space when they parked .
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service attended almost 6,240 vehicle incidents of various types in the ten year period between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2020 .
More than half involved a car and 40 % multiple vehicles , and nearly half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person .
Station Commander Steve Andrews of the HWFRS Community Risk Department said : “ Every second can count when someone needs the help of the fire service .
“ Bad or careless parking can delay fire engines and emergency vehicles from reaching serious incidents in your area – that could endanger your life and the lives of your families , friends and neighbours .
“ The positioning of parked cars could just make the difference between the emergency services being able to save a life or not.
” So when parking , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ park on one side of the road ( where possible ) • obey the Highway Code and road markings such as yellow lines and box junctions • do not park too close to corners or traffic calming measures • remember every second counts when someone needs our help • ask yourself : ‘ Could I get through this space ?
’ If not a fire engine probably couldn ’ t either .

They have issued a plea to drivers to make sure they don’t park thoughtlessly and dangerously delay a fire engine getting to an emergency call.
The service already have the problem of trying to weave their way through rush hour traffic for many of their calls.
In fact new figures show the most common time for car crash incidents is the morning and evening commuter rush.
So that last thing they need is not to be able to squeeze through between cars that have failed to leave enough space between them in crowded streets.
The simple message is that a fire engine is one and a half times the width of a car and so drivers need to gauge that when they decide if they have left enough space when they parked.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service attended almost 6,240 vehicle incidents of various types in the ten year period between 1 April 2010 and 31 March 2020.
More than half involved a car and 40% multiple vehicles, and nearly half of the incidents involved rescuing a trapped person.
Station Commander Steve Andrews of the HWFRS Community Risk Department said: “Every second can count when someone needs the help of the fire service.
“Bad or careless parking can delay fire engines and emergency vehicles from reaching serious incidents in your area – that could endanger your life and the lives of your families, friends and neighbours.
“The positioning of parked cars could just make the difference between the emergency services being able to save a life or not.”
So when parking, please:
• park close to the kerb
• park straight with wheels straight
• fold in wing mirrors
• in narrow streets only park on one side of the road (where possible)
• obey the Highway Code and road markings such as yellow lines and box junctions
• do not park too close to corners or traffic calming measures
• leave extra room at tight junctions
• remember every second counts when someone needs our help
• ask yourself: ‘Could I get through this space?’ If not a fire engine probably couldn’t either.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Who will win? Worcestershire family in running for farming award

WE ARE days away from knowing who has been voted the region ’ s top farmers in our Three Counties Farming Awards .
We had a record number of entries as people queued up to nominate those they felt deserved special recognition in this challenging year of floods and virus .
It includes large and small enterprises from across Worcestershire , Herefordshire and Gloucestershire , including Churchfields Farm at Droitwich in the running for Family Farm of the Year .
The awards ceremony will be broadcast at 7pm on Thursday , November 26 , hosted by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NFU President Minette Batters and special appearances from a host of celebrities .
And to whet your appetite , here is a run down of all the finalists The sponsors of the awards are : Belmont Farm & Equine Vets ( two categories ) ; TH White Group , Avara Foods , Cupid Events , Duchy of Cornwall , Herefordshire & Ludlow College , Countryside Restoration Trust , MFG Solicitors , Western Power Distribution , Hereford College of Arts To follow the broadcast live go to the Facebook page of our sister paper @ @ @ @ @

We had a record number of entries as people queued up to nominate those they felt deserved special recognition in this challenging year of floods and virus.
It includes large and small enterprises from across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, including Churchfields Farm at Droitwich in the running for Family Farm of the Year.
The awards ceremony will be broadcast at 7pm on Thursday, November 26, hosted by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, with a special message from NFU President Minette Batters and special appearances from a host of celebrities.
And to whet your appetite, here is a run down of all the finalists
Arable Farmer: E.A.Davies & Son - Tom Davies
Cattle Farmer: Andrew Eastabrook; Matt Cleland; David Thornley
Family Run Farm: H & E Rudge; Rea & Son; Churchfields Farm
Farm Conservation of the Year: Andrew Eastabrook; Oxton Organics; James Hawkins
Farming Contractor: Russell Price Farm Services; Colin Warne
Farming Hero: Roger Bowen; Ian Pugh; Sam Stables
Fruit/Hop Farmer: Simon Parker - Instone Court Farm; Orgasmic Cider; Moorcourt Fruit Limited
Pig Farmer: Weobley Ash
Poultry Farmer: Giles McQuiston; Lee Baxter - Penrhos Poultry; Mr Chris White, Ledbury Poultry;
Sheep Farmer: Sam and Emily Stables; Frank Lloyd; Kevin Stokes
Young Farmer: Charlie Bemand; Jo Lawrence; Imi Manning
The sponsors of the awards are: Belmont Farm & Equine Vets (two categories); TH White Group, Avara Foods, Cupid Events, Duchy of Cornwall, Herefordshire & Ludlow College, Countryside Restoration Trust, MFG Solicitors, Western Power Distribution, Hereford College of Arts
To follow the broadcast live go to the Facebook page of our sister paper, the Hereford Times.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Countdown is on to first Wyre Forest Community Lottery draw

WITH just a week to go until the first grand draw for Wyre Forest 's new Community Lottery , it 's the last chance for people to enter for a chance to win the £25,000 jackpot .
The first weekly prize draw will take place at 6pm on Saturday , November 28 , with prizes up for grabs including £25,000 for a matching sequence of six numbers , £2,000 , £250 , £25 and three free tickets .
One lucky winner in the first draw will also win a Fitbit Charge 4 .
Tickets cost £1 with 60p going towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the pound for the National Lottery , available to buy at wyreforestcommunitylottery.co.uk .
Wyre Forest District Council , which has organised the new lottery alongside an established operator , will not receive any money , although scores of charities and organisations are set win through the scheme .
Around 35 good causes will receive 50p in every pound spent by players who select them , and another 10p in every pound will go into a general good causes fund , with the remainder being put towards prizes , operating costs and VAT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support a specific cause can still take part in the lottery with 60p from their ticket price going into a central good causes fund , which will be distributed by the council .
Cabinet member for culture , leisure and community protection , Councillor Helen Dyke , said : “ The countdown is well and truly on and there is just over a week to go until the first weekly draw .
“ This new initiative could potentially give local charities and groups doing such good work in our communities a new fund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year has been like no other and many groups have suffered because they can ’ t raise funds in ways they have in the past .
“ If you belong to an organisation which has not yet applied to become a good cause t ’ s not too late to apply .
There ’ s no deadline and good causes can come online at any point .
“ I hope this new lottery will provide a little extra cheer in what has been a dark and difficult year for us all .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best of luck !
” More information on how to apply to become a good cause is available at wyreforestdc.gov.uk/lotterylaunch .

The first weekly prize draw will take place at 6pm on Saturday, November 28, with prizes up for grabs including £25,000 for a matching sequence of six numbers, £2,000, £250, £25 and three free tickets.
One lucky winner in the first draw will also win a Fitbit Charge 4.
Tickets cost £1 with 60p going towards local good causes, compared with 28p in the pound for the National Lottery, available to buy at wyreforestcommunitylottery.co.uk.
Wyre Forest District Council, which has organised the new lottery alongside an established operator, will not receive any money, although scores of charities and organisations are set win through the scheme.
Around 35 good causes will receive 50p in every pound spent by players who select them, and another 10p in every pound will go into a general good causes fund, with the remainder being put towards prizes, operating costs and VAT.
Players who do not wish to support a specific cause can still take part in the lottery with 60p from their ticket price going into a central good causes fund, which will be distributed by the council.
Cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, Councillor Helen Dyke, said: “The countdown is well and truly on and there is just over a week to go until the first weekly draw.
“This new initiative could potentially give local charities and groups doing such good work in our communities a new fund raising avenue. We all know this year has been like no other and many groups have suffered because they can’t raise funds in ways they have in the past.
“If you belong to an organisation which has not yet applied to become a good cause t’s not too late to apply. There’s no deadline and good causes can come online at any point.
“I hope this new lottery will provide a little extra cheer in what has been a dark and difficult year for us all. I wish everyone playing the lottery the very best of luck!”
More information on how to apply to become a good cause is available at wyreforestdc.gov.uk/lotterylaunch.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Family say birth of Merida Cartwright is highlight of 2020

Baby Merida 's safe arrival has been a joyous highlight for her family in what has been a very difficult @ @ @ @ @ was born to parents Maxine Humphries and Ian Cartwright , of Baxter Gardens , Kidderminster @ @ @ @ @ October 9 , weighing 7lb 14oz .
Her parents met through their love of archery @ @ @ @ @ .
Mum Maxine said : `` Our hopes are that she will take up the @ @ @ @ @ one day turn into an Olympic archer for Great Britain !
`` 2020 has been @ @ @ @ @ life , with Covid and keeping a business afloat .
She has been our shining @ @ @ @ @ times . ''
• If you would like us to feature your new arrival in @ @ @ @ @

Merida Simone Cartwright was born to parents Maxine Humphries and Ian Cartwright, of Baxter Gardens, Kidderminster at Russells Hall Hospital on October 9, weighing 7lb 14oz.
Her parents met through their love of archery at a local archery competition.
Mum Maxine said: "Our hopes are that she will take up the much loved sport and maybe one day turn into an Olympic archer for Great Britain!
"2020 has been the hardest year of our life, with Covid and keeping a business afloat. She has been our shining light in our darkest of times."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-22--Camera Club capture beauty of nature

Camera Club capture beauty of nature

Here are the best of this week 's pictures taken by Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club .
If you would @ @ @ @ @ for us on Facebook .

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--2020-11-23--Revamped website showcases best of Stourport shops and events

THE official website for Stourport-on-Severn has been given a makeover in a bid to support local businesses and encourage more people to visit the town .
Thanks to a small government grant , non-profit company Stourport Forward has updated the stourporttown.co.uk website to showcase the best places to visit , where to stay , what shops there are and what events are going on in the town .
Stourport Forward 's chairman David Willetts said : `` We know how tough it has been for local businesses during the pandemic .
Just as our businesses have got going again , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We wanted local people to have the opportunity to showcase their businesses , so that potential visitors to the town will be able to see what is on offer .
Rebecca Todd , of A Touch of Class in Stourport '' The successful Stourport Town website has been run by Stourport Forward since it was launched in 2010 and has weekly views of around 6,000 people interested in the town .
`` Visitors can find out about places to visit , where to stay , what shops are in town and what events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events are usually an important feature of the website , with the annual Carnival and Three Kings Parade attracting thousands of visitors , Mikron Theatre Company giving a rousing performance in the summer Canal Basin ’ s Outdoor Theatre performance , and a multitude of sporting and musical events taking place throughout the year .
`` But listings have been decimated as local businesses and groups have been forced to scale down or cancel any events . ''
Russell Hinton , from Manton 's of Stourport , jeweller and goldsmiths , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We had months of shut-down , but many businesses used the opportunity to refresh their offer and come back looking good when we were able to reopen .
`` Business picked up nicely in the summer , as holidaymakers tentatively came back to the town for a day out or summer break .
`` Now we are in lockdown once again , it 's hard to know what to do next , but we can do our best to promote the town , so that we ’ re ready for visitors again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with the doom and gloom , and are looking forward to some Christmas cheer . ''
The new-look Stourport Town website has been redesigned by local company Noble Digital , recent winners of Most Innovative Digital Business in the 2020 Midlands Enterprise Awards .
• This is how coronavirus vaccines will be rolled out in Worcestershire Noble managing director Larry Brangwyn said : “ We believe websites can be better and are always looking for ways in which we can raise the expectations people have in community websites such as Stourport Town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organisations and individuals manage their own content on the website , it is more likely that the information presented will remain an up-to-date and relevant resource for residents and visitors alike.
” Businesses and groups wishing to put their details onto the website can contact Eliza and Nikki at Stourport Forward at info @ stourportforward.org.uk .
The Stourport Forward team can help businesses to put their details together for the website and have a limited number of slots with a photographer available before Christmas .

Thanks to a small government grant, non-profit company Stourport Forward has updated the stourporttown.co.uk website to showcase the best places to visit, where to stay, what shops there are and what events are going on in the town.
Stourport Forward's chairman David Willetts said: "We know how tough it has been for local businesses during the pandemic. Just as our businesses have got going again, we are back into lockdown.
"We wanted local people to have the opportunity to showcase their businesses, so that potential visitors to the town will be able to see what is on offer.
Rebecca Todd, of A Touch of Class in Stourport
"The successful Stourport Town website has been run by Stourport Forward since it was launched in 2010 and has weekly views of around 6,000 people interested in the town.
"Visitors can find out about places to visit, where to stay, what shops are in town and what events are on in town.
"The events are usually an important feature of the website, with the annual Carnival and Three Kings Parade attracting thousands of visitors, Mikron Theatre Company giving a rousing performance in the summer Canal Basin’s Outdoor Theatre performance, and a multitude of sporting and musical events taking place throughout the year.
"But listings have been decimated as local businesses and groups have been forced to scale down or cancel any events."
Russell Hinton, from Manton's of Stourport, jeweller and goldsmiths, said: "2020 has been a difficult year. We had months of shut-down, but many businesses used the opportunity to refresh their offer and come back looking good when we were able to reopen.
"Business picked up nicely in the summer, as holidaymakers tentatively came back to the town for a day out or summer break.
"Now we are in lockdown once again, it's hard to know what to do next, but we can do our best to promote the town, so that we’re ready for visitors again before Christmas.
"People are fed up with the doom and gloom, and are looking forward to some Christmas cheer."
The new-look Stourport Town website has been redesigned by local company Noble Digital, recent winners of Most Innovative Digital Business in the 2020 Midlands Enterprise Awards.
Read more:
Noble managing director Larry Brangwyn said: “We believe websites can be better and are always looking for ways in which we can raise the expectations people have in community websites such as Stourport Town.
"By leveraging technology to help organisations and individuals manage their own content on the website, it is more likely that the information presented will remain an up-to-date and relevant resource for residents and visitors alike.”
Businesses and groups wishing to put their details onto the website can contact Eliza and Nikki at Stourport Forward at info@stourportforward.org.uk.
The Stourport Forward team can help businesses to put their details together for the website and have a limited number of slots with a photographer available before Christmas.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Suspected drink driver waved at police to pass in Kidderminster

A SUSPECTED drink driver slurred his words when refusing to take a breath test before staggering towards the waiting police car , almost falling over .
Robert Browning pulled over and waved at the police car behind him to pass , not realising officers wanted to speak to him after becoming suspicious because his back window was steamed up .
The 54-year-old , of Worcester Road , Wychbold had initially denied failing to provide a specimen for analysis - first at the roadside and again at the police station and was `` aggrieved to be arrested '' .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he appeared again before magistrates in Worcester on Tuesday following the incident in Kidderminster at around 1am on February 13 .
Jackie Rogers , prosecuting , said : `` Officers described his eyes as being glazed , his speech as being slurred and formed the opinion he was drunk . ''
Browning was invited to take a seat in the back of the police car to discuss the matter further .
`` They described him as being unsteady on his feet and almost falling as he made his way to the police vehicle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Mrs Rogers .
He refused to provide a roadside breath sample and was arrested and taken to Kidderminster Police Station where he also refused to provide an evidential sample using the intoxilyzer procedure .
Mrs Rogers said he also refused to answer questions or provide any medical reason why he could not provide a specimen .
As a result of the defendant 's not guilty plea , the Crown had prepared the case for a trial which in the end was unnecessary because of the change of plea .
As a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , £300 .
Gary Harper , defending , said the delay had been caused while a possible psychiatric or physical medical defence was explored .
`` It 's a fact that Mr Browning suffered a collapsed lung and also he was suffering from depression and stress , '' said the solicitor .
Unfortunately , Mr Harper said , there was no evidence to support a formal medical defence and so Browning changed his plea , instructing his solicitor to write to the court confirming this .
Mr Harper said police stopped Browning because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steamed up .
`` He was n't skidding all over the road or anything like that .
There was no going to the other side of the road , '' said Mr Harper .
He told magistrates there had been `` no effect whatsoever '' in terms of any impairment to his driving , describing his client as a man of good character who had suffered from depression for the last 10 years .
Mr Harper added : `` He was a little bit aggrieved about being arrested .
He was n't as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Magistrates fined him £120 , ordered him to pay a contribution towards court costs of £200 and a victim surcharge of £32 .
They banned him from driving for 12 months but offered him the drink drivers rehabilitation course .
If he completes the course by June 16 next year he will have his licence returned on August 16 next year .
If he fails to complete the course it will be returned to him on November 16 next year .

Robert Browning pulled over and waved at the police car behind him to pass, not realising officers wanted to speak to him after becoming suspicious because his back window was steamed up.
The 54-year-old, of Worcester Road, Wychbold had initially denied failing to provide a specimen for analysis - first at the roadside and again at the police station and was "aggrieved to be arrested".
However, he changed his plea to guilty when he appeared again before magistrates in Worcester on Tuesday following the incident in Kidderminster at around 1am on February 13.
Jackie Rogers, prosecuting, said: "Officers described his eyes as being glazed, his speech as being slurred and formed the opinion he was drunk."
Browning was invited to take a seat in the back of the police car to discuss the matter further.
"They described him as being unsteady on his feet and almost falling as he made his way to the police vehicle. They could smell intoxicants," said Mrs Rogers.
He refused to provide a roadside breath sample and was arrested and taken to Kidderminster Police Station where he also refused to provide an evidential sample using the intoxilyzer procedure.
Mrs Rogers said he also refused to answer questions or provide any medical reason why he could not provide a specimen.
As a result of the defendant's not guilty plea, the Crown had prepared the case for a trial which in the end was unnecessary because of the change of plea. As a result Mrs Rogers requested half the prosecution costs, £300.
Gary Harper, defending, said the delay had been caused while a possible psychiatric or physical medical defence was explored.
"It's a fact that Mr Browning suffered a collapsed lung and also he was suffering from depression and stress," said the solicitor.
Unfortunately, Mr Harper said, there was no evidence to support a formal medical defence and so Browning changed his plea, instructing his solicitor to write to the court confirming this.
Mr Harper said police stopped Browning because they were concerned his back window was steamed up.
"He wasn't skidding all over the road or anything like that. There was no going to the other side of the road," said Mr Harper.
He told magistrates there had been "no effect whatsoever" in terms of any impairment to his driving, describing his client as a man of good character who had suffered from depression for the last 10 years.
Mr Harper added: "He was a little bit aggrieved about being arrested. He wasn't as co-operative as he could have been."
Magistrates fined him £120, ordered him to pay a contribution towards court costs of £200 and a victim surcharge of £32.
They banned him from driving for 12 months but offered him the drink drivers rehabilitation course. If he completes the course by June 16 next year he will have his licence returned on August 16 next year.
If he fails to complete the course it will be returned to him on November 16 next year.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Farsley Celtic 2-2 Kidderminster Harriers

JIMMY O ’ CONNOR took the positives as Harriers drew 2-2 at Farsley Celtic to extend their unbeaten run to six matches .
Sam Austin and Omari Sterling netted for the Reds , who had conceded first and , at 2-1 up , again just seconds into the second half .
“ It was an absolute scrap out there , ” admitted O ’ Connor after the game .
“ At 2-2 it could have gone either way and you have to focus on the positives .
At the end of the day , I think the boys have shown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we might not have seen in the past .
“ [ You can ] be disappointed , but you move on but if we can back up with a result and performance on Tuesday then you look at it as a good point.
” O ’ Connor and boss Russ Penn had opted to name the same starting eleven as he did for the 2-0 victory over Brackley Town a few days prior – Alex Penny shook off an injury sustained during that game to keep his place in the eleven , enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After a quiet opening that was shaded by the hosts , it was Farsley who stole ahead with 17 on the clock ; Tom Allen turning in from close range as Harriers defended poorly from a corner .
That was the first of three goals inside five minutes , however , as Harriers responded quickly to turn the game on its head .
First , Austin turned superbly some 20 yards from goal before arrowing an effort past Steven Drench , before great work from Alex Penny saw him play Hemmings into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Omari Sterling who coolly slotted into the net to make it 2-1 from close range .
Morgan-Smith angled a shot wide as Harriers sensed blood , but it was a half that actually ended with the home side very much on top – twice they hit off target when forward in good numbers , Spencer latterly going close .
There was a moment of controversy in the dying stages of the half when Harriers conceded a penalty despite Montrose appearing to be fouled , but any perceived injustice was eased after Richards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Spencer made amends of sorts as the home side flew out of the blocks at the restart ; he held off his man brilliantly and shot on the angle , the Farsley man seeing his effort parried into the path of Johnston who tucked home a finish from close range .
A Hemmings header , comfortably over on the hour , was as close as Harriers came in the early stage of the half , while Walton chanced his arm from distance not long after with an effort from the edge of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The game descended into a scrappy affair from there – with a total of seven yellow cards in the contest telling the ultimate story .
There were sniffs chances for both teams – Sterling seeing a shot comfortably saved by Drench while Simpson made a good save from Hayhurst look easier than it was .

Sam Austin and Omari Sterling netted for the Reds, who had conceded first and, at 2-1 up, again just seconds into the second half.
“It was an absolute scrap out there,” admitted O’Connor after the game.
“At 2-2 it could have gone either way and you have to focus on the positives. At the end of the day, I think the boys have shown a level of character again today that we might not have seen in the past.
“[You can] be disappointed, but you move on but if we can back up with a result and performance on Tuesday then you look at it as a good point.”
O’Connor and boss Russ Penn had opted to name the same starting eleven as he did for the 2-0 victory over Brackley Town a few days prior – Alex Penny shook off an injury sustained during that game to keep his place in the eleven, enough to keep Cliff Moyo on the bench.
After a quiet opening that was shaded by the hosts, it was Farsley who stole ahead with 17 on the clock; Tom Allen turning in from close range as Harriers defended poorly from a corner.
That was the first of three goals inside five minutes, however, as Harriers responded quickly to turn the game on its head. First, Austin turned superbly some 20 yards from goal before arrowing an effort past Steven Drench, before great work from Alex Penny saw him play Hemmings into space – he unselfishly but sensibly squared to Omari Sterling who coolly slotted into the net to make it 2-1 from close range.
Morgan-Smith angled a shot wide as Harriers sensed blood, but it was a half that actually ended with the home side very much on top – twice they hit off target when forward in good numbers, Spencer latterly going close. There was a moment of controversy in the dying stages of the half when Harriers conceded a penalty despite Montrose appearing to be fouled, but any perceived injustice was eased after Richards thundered the resultant spot-kick against the woodwork.
Spencer made amends of sorts as the home side flew out of the blocks at the restart; he held off his man brilliantly and shot on the angle, the Farsley man seeing his effort parried into the path of Johnston who tucked home a finish from close range.
A Hemmings header, comfortably over on the hour, was as close as Harriers came in the early stage of the half, while Walton chanced his arm from distance not long after with an effort from the edge of the area that sailed over the bar.
The game descended into a scrappy affair from there – with a total of seven yellow cards in the contest telling the ultimate story. There were sniffs chances for both teams – Sterling seeing a shot comfortably saved by Drench while Simpson made a good save from Hayhurst look easier than it was.
Harriers: Simpson, Penny, Austin, Richards, Taylor, Lowe, Montrose (Prosser 90), Maxwell, Sterling (Freemantle 77), Hemmings (Arthur 67), Morgan-Smith.
Subs not used: Moyo, Palmer.
Referee: Paul Cooper


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Black Friday 2020 deals round-up at Argos, Tesco, Debenhams, John Lewis, Currys

Black Friday 2020 is nearly here - however this year many high street chains have already launched their pre-Christmas deals .
Black Friday is an informal name for the Friday following Thanksgiving Day in the United States , which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November .
The day after Thanksgiving has been regarded as the beginning of the United States Christmas shopping season since 1952 .
However in recent years , countries such as the UK have also cashed in on the event , with a growing number of retailers launching major pre-Christmas sales .
We 've rounded-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have slashed prices on their products - perfect for bargain-hunters getting the presents in early .
The popular high street chain have already launched their Black Friday deals online - which include a range of technology , household applicances , plus health and beauty products .
In England , some Argos stores will remain open for Click & Collect purchases only .
The supermarket chain have begun their Black Friday event online , with deals on a variety of electrical items , toys , gift sets and more .
Debenhams have activated their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent off all fragrance including gift sets .
The company also have up to half price off on womenswear and accessories , homewear , electricals , kidswear and more .
Like many other high street chains , John Lewis have also begun their set of Black Friday offers on their website .
A statement on the site reads : `` We 've hundreds of great offers across Home , Fashion , Electricials and Gifts . ''
This year , Currys PC World and Carphone Warehouse have unveiled their 'Black Fri-Yay ' deals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hundreds of products as well as up to 60 per cent off across categories such as TV , Computing and Audio .
A spokesperson from the company said : `` Customers can access store colleague expertise through ShopLive , which connects customers to a video chat with one of its tech experts , helping customers work out the right product for them .
`` And customers need not worry if they are shopping in their pyjamas as the video conferencing is one-way only . ''
Asda have cut prices across a range @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details on their website .
In a statement , Asda said : `` Black Friday is back with better deals than ever .
With huge discounts on the brands you know and love , you won ’ t want to miss out .
So get involved in our Black Friday event for a super-charged Asda Price pocket tap . ''
Boots have already kicked off their discounts with a month of Black Friday deals .
Gift sets , fragrance , electrical beauty , toiletries and more are among the items to have their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retailers have published details of the cut-price items on their respective websites .
Another high street fashion chain taking on Black Friday is River Island .
In a statement on their website , River Island told shoppers to 'roll up for a magical week of wonder ' with discounts on items for women , men and children .
The retailer have launched a Black Friday sale with up to 50 per cent off games , accessories and more .

This year Black Friday takes place on Friday, November 27, 2020.
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is an informal name for the Friday following Thanksgiving Day in the United States, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.
The day after Thanksgiving has been regarded as the beginning of the United States Christmas shopping season since 1952.
However in recent years, countries such as the UK have also cashed in on the event, with a growing number of retailers launching major pre-Christmas sales.
Which high street chains have Black Friday deals?
We've rounded-up a list covering some of the retailers have slashed prices on their products - perfect for bargain-hunters getting the presents in early.
Argos
The popular high street chain have already launched their Black Friday deals online - which include a range of technology, household applicances, plus health and beauty products.
In England, some Argos stores will remain open for Click & Collect purchases only.
Tesco
The supermarket chain have begun their Black Friday event online, with deals on a variety of electrical items, toys, gift sets and more.
Debenhams
Debenhams have activated their Black Friday sale - which offers 15 per cent off all fragrance including gift sets.
The company also have up to half price off on womenswear and accessories, homewear, electricals, kidswear and more.
John Lewis
Like many other high street chains, John Lewis have also begun their set of Black Friday offers on their website.
A statement on the site reads: "We've hundreds of great offers across Home, Fashion, Electricials and Gifts."
Currys PC World and Carphone Warehouse
This year, Currys PC World and Carphone Warehouse have unveiled their 'Black Fri-Yay' deals.
The Black Friday prices will apply to hundreds of products as well as up to 60 per cent off across categories such as TV, Computing and Audio.
A spokesperson from the company said: "Customers can access store colleague expertise through ShopLive, which connects customers to a video chat with one of its tech experts, helping customers work out the right product for them.
"And customers need not worry if they are shopping in their pyjamas as the video conferencing is one-way only."
Asda
Asda have cut prices across a range of products for Black Friday - with details on their website.
In a statement, Asda said: "Black Friday is back with better deals than ever. With huge discounts on the brands you know and love, you won’t want to miss out. So get involved in our Black Friday event for a super-charged Asda Price pocket tap."
Boots
Boots have already kicked off their discounts with a month of Black Friday deals.
Gift sets, fragrance, electrical beauty, toiletries and more are among the items to have their prices cut.
Topshop and Topman
The high street fashion retailers have published details of the cut-price items on their respective websites.
River Island
Picture: PA Wire
Another high street fashion chain taking on Black Friday is River Island.
In a statement on their website, River Island told shoppers to 'roll up for a magical week of wonder' with discounts on items for women, men and children.
Game
The retailer have launched a Black Friday sale with up to 50 per cent off games, accessories and more.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Wyre Forest Covid rate falls - but some areas see rise in cases

CORONAVIRUS cases remain steady in Wyre Forest , however two areas in the district have infection rates above 400 , placing them in the highest category on Public Health England 's Covid map .
On the latest government map , which covers the seven day period up to November 17 , Wolverley , Cookley and Blakedown and Stourport Areley Kings had the highest infection rates in the district .
Wolverley , Cookley and Blakedown recorded 50 new cases in that seven-day period , an increase of 17 on the previous week , and an infection rate of 549.1 per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases , an increase of three , and a rolling infection rate of 444.1 .
These are the areas with the highest Covid-19 infection rates in Wyre Forest : Official figures for the wider Wyre Forest , which cover the more recent seven-day period up to November 19 , suggest that the district 's infection rate continues to stabilise , falling compared to the week before .
Wyre Forest 's infection rate stands at 248.8 with 252 positive cases , compared to a rate of 287.3 and 291 cases in the week up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forest has the second highest rate in Worcestershire after Redditch , which recorded an infection rate of 297.9 per 100,000 people .
Redditch 's rate the week before was 346 .
It 's case numbers dropped from 295 to 254 .
Bromsgrove 's infection rate is 230.3 with 230 positive cases , compared to a rate of 287.3 and 287 cases a week earlier .
Worcester 's rate is 186.7 with 189 confirmed cases in the most recent seven-day period .
A week earlier , its rate was 281.6 with 285 positive Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 140.6 with 182 confirmed cases , compared to 170 and 220 cases the week before .
Malvern 's rate is 108 with 85 cases , compared to a rate of 114.4 and 90 positive cases a week earlier .
A majority of areas in England - 249 out of 315 - have seen a fall in case rates .
The figures are based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider community and were published on Monday , November 23 on the government 's coronavirus dashboard .
Data for the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 , has been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases .

On the latest government map, which covers the seven day period up to November 17, Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown and Stourport Areley Kings had the highest infection rates in the district.
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown recorded 50 new cases in that seven-day period, an increase of 17 on the previous week, and an infection rate of 549.1 per 100,000 people.
Areley Kings had 26 positive cases, an increase of three, and a rolling infection rate of 444.1.
These are the areas with the highest Covid-19 infection rates in Wyre Forest:
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown - 549.1 rate, 50 cases Areley Kings - 444.1 rate, 26 cases Stourport Lickhill and Burlish - 384.9 rate, 27 cases Bewdley West, Ribbesford and Far Forest - 354.4 rate, 25 cases Stourport Mitton and Wilden - 327.8 rate, 26 cases Hartlebury and Wychbold - 325.6 rate, 26 cases Habberley - 274.7 rate, 18 cases Kidderminster Town - 269.3 rate, 23 cases Spennells and Hoobrook - 218.1 rate, 14 cases Franche - 217.9 rate, 15 cases Comberton - 201.4 rate, 17 cases Bewdley East and Upper Arley - 190.2 rate, 13 cases Birchen Coppice - 164.7 rate, 10 cases Foley Park - 118.7 rate, nine cases Greenhill - 85.6 rate, six cases
Official figures for the wider Wyre Forest, which cover the more recent seven-day period up to November 19, suggest that the district's infection rate continues to stabilise, falling compared to the week before.
Wyre Forest's infection rate stands at 248.8 with 252 positive cases, compared to a rate of 287.3 and 291 cases in the week up to November 12.
It means Wyre Forest has the second highest rate in Worcestershire after Redditch, which recorded an infection rate of 297.9 per 100,000 people.
Redditch's rate the week before was 346. It's case numbers dropped from 295 to 254.
Bromsgrove's infection rate is 230.3 with 230 positive cases, compared to a rate of 287.3 and 287 cases a week earlier.
Worcester's rate is 186.7 with 189 confirmed cases in the most recent seven-day period. A week earlier, its rate was 281.6 with 285 positive Covid cases.
Wychavon has a rate of 140.6 with 182 confirmed cases, compared to 170 and 220 cases the week before.
Malvern's rate is 108 with 85 cases, compared to a rate of 114.4 and 90 positive cases a week earlier.
A majority of areas in England - 249 out of 315 - have seen a fall in case rates.
The figures are based on tests carried out in laboratories and in the wider community and were published on Monday, November 23 on the government's coronavirus dashboard. Data for the most recent four days, November 20 to 23, has been excluded as it is incomplete and does not reflect the true number of cases.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Stourport woman gets knitting for our Christmas Gift Appeal

A RETIRED legal secretary from Stourport has knitted 35 scarves for our Christmas gift appeal .
We ’ ve had a huge response since launching the 16th annual Shuttle Gift Appeal , run in partnership with charity Home-Start Wyre Forest , and generous readers have so far donated around 280 presents for local families facing financial or mental health difficulties .
Among those to support the appeal this week is Stourport ’ s Wendy Squires , who donated dozens of hand-knitted scarves to some of the district ’ s most vulnerable children .
Using wool donated by her friend Jean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knitted 35 multi-coloured scarves and decided to support the appeal after seeing a story in The Shuttle newspaper .
Wendy said : “ I did a similar thing last year - I donated to Brookside Children ’ s Centre in Kidderminster .
I wasn ’ t able to do as many this year but I thought they would be a perfect Christmas present for some of these children.
” Home-Start 's Belinda Darby said : `` With a delivery from both Kidderminster Tesco and Co-op today with mountains of gifts , I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with three weeks to go !
`` This will enable us to ensure every child has at least one gift , possibly more and those leftover will be passed , as usual to the safeguarding leads at our local schools to be given to local children who we are not in touch with but who are known to be vulnerable . ''
Gifts can be donated until Monday , December 14 at Midcounties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road , Kidderminster , the Swan Centre management suite , Franche Community Church , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Church , Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster , and the Home-Start office in New Road .
Home-Start staff and volunteers will then wrap and pack the gifts and store them in a Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families .
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped .
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal , visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896 .

We’ve had a huge response since launching the 16th annual Shuttle Gift Appeal, run in partnership with charity Home-Start Wyre Forest, and generous readers have so far donated around 280 presents for local families facing financial or mental health difficulties.
Among those to support the appeal this week is Stourport’s Wendy Squires, who donated dozens of hand-knitted scarves to some of the district’s most vulnerable children.
Using wool donated by her friend Jean Meredith, also from Stourport, Wendy knitted 35 multi-coloured scarves and decided to support the appeal after seeing a story in The Shuttle newspaper.
Wendy said: “I did a similar thing last year - I donated to Brookside Children’s Centre in Kidderminster. I wasn’t able to do as many this year but I thought they would be a perfect Christmas present for some of these children.”
Home-Start's Belinda Darby said: "With a delivery from both Kidderminster Tesco and Co-op today with mountains of gifts, I think we have had around 280 so far with three weeks to go !
"This will enable us to ensure every child has at least one gift, possibly more and those leftover will be passed, as usual to the safeguarding leads at our local schools to be given to local children who we are not in touch with but who are known to be vulnerable."
Gifts can be donated until Monday, December 14 at Midcounties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road, Kidderminster, the Swan Centre management suite, Franche Community Church, St Ambrose Church, St George’s Church, Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster, and the Home-Start office in New Road.
Home-Start staff and volunteers will then wrap and pack the gifts and store them in a Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families.
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped.
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal, visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-23--Johnson sets out details of tougher tiers to replace England’s lockdown

England will face tiered coronavirus restrictions until the end of March , despite the latest successful vaccine trials and rapid tests presenting a “ route out of the pandemic ” .
As the lockdown ends on December 2 , more parts of England are expected to be placed into higher tiers than they were before the national restrictions were imposed .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson also said the new tiers would be tougher than their predecessors , after Government scientific advisers said the previous regime did not do enough to tackle the virus .
The announcement of the new measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine had proved 70 % effective .
Appearing via video link from coronavirus self-isolation in Downing Street , Mr Johnson told MPs the three-tiered approach had been beefed up .
Under the new system : – In Tier 2 , alcohol may only be served in hospitality settings as part of a substantial meal .
– In Tier 3 , pubs and restaurants will only be able to offer takeaway and delivery services , while indoor entertainment , hotels and other accommodation will close .
The 10pm curfew will be relaxed , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and premises ordered to shut at 11pm .
Setting out other measures that will be eased as the lockdown lifts , Mr Johnson said : “ From next Wednesday people will be able to leave their home for any purpose and meet others in outdoor public spaces , subject to the rule of six , collective worship , weddings and outdoor sports can resume , and shops , personal care , gyms and the wider leisure sector can reopen .
“ But without sensible precautions , we would risk the virus escalating into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Details of which areas will be in which tiers will be set out on Thursday , Mr Johnson said .
“ I ’ m sorry to say we expect that more regions will fall at least temporarily into higher levels than before , ” he warned .
A plan to allow families to be reunited for Christmas is being thrashed out with the leaders of Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland , but Mr Johnson was unable to confirm details on Monday .
“ We all want some kind of Christmas , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserve it , ” he said .
“ But what we don ’ t want is to throw caution to the winds and allow the virus to flare up again , forcing us all back into lockdown in January.
” He acknowledged coronavirus “ is obviously not going to grant a Christmas truce ” and warned that families will need to make a careful judgment about the risk of visiting elderly relatives .
Despite the tougher measures , the Government ’ s scientific advisers warned they might not go far enough and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in areas where Tier 3 restrictions are not able to shrink the epidemic .
The Sage scientific advisory panel also questioned the value of Tier 1 , concluding that “ Tier 2 is the minimum intervention required to maintain any degree of control on transmission ” .
The latest figures showed a further 206 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Monday and there had been 15,450 more lab-confirmed cases .
As well as the progress on vaccines , Mr Johnson pointed to the expansion of rapid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to something approaching normality .
This could include allowing people who test negative greater freedoms and the prospect of a daily test replacing precautionary self-isolation for people who come into contact with a coronavirus case .
Despite the progress on a vaccine and the testing developments , Mr Johnson acknowledged “ this will still be a hard winter , Christmas can not be normal and there is a long road to spring ” .
“ But we have turned a corner and the escape route is in sight , ” he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister ’ s strategy was “ risky ” because the previous tiered system failed .
With Tory unrest over the impact of the restrictions on the economy and civil liberties , Labour support could be crucial and Sir Keir said his party had backed previous measures .
“ Ideally , I ’ d like to be in a position to do so again , ” he said .
“ But there are huge gaps in this plan , huge uncertainties and huge risks.
” While retailers welcomed the announcement that they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fury in the hospitality and arts industries .
Acting Confederation of British Industry chief Josh Hardie said : “ Positive news of vaccines offers a ray of light for 2021 .
“ But the next few weeks and months will for many feel like purgatory – stuck in limbo between a national lockdown and a new normal.
” Kate Nicholls , of trade body UKHospitality , said : “ They are killing Christmas and beyond for many businesses and their customers who look forward to , and rely on , venues being open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sadly , for many staff , it will be a Christmas out of work.
” But Helen Dickinson of the British Retail Consortium said : “ The Government ’ s decision to keep all of retail open will help to preserve jobs and the economy and help keep Christmas a festive occasion for everyone.
” Meanwhile Che Donald , national vice chairman of the Police Federation , said a possible relaxation of rules over Christmas coupled with a return to the tier system would be “ next to impossible ” for officers to @ @

As the lockdown ends on December 2, more parts of England are expected to be placed into higher tiers than they were before the national restrictions were imposed.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson also said the new tiers would be tougher than their predecessors, after Government scientific advisers said the previous regime did not do enough to tackle the virus.
The announcement of the new measures came as the Oxford-AstraZeneca team announced its vaccine had proved 70% effective.
Appearing via video link from coronavirus self-isolation in Downing Street, Mr Johnson told MPs the three-tiered approach had been beefed up.
Under the new system:
– In Tier 2, alcohol may only be served in hospitality settings as part of a substantial meal.
– In Tier 3, pubs and restaurants will only be able to offer takeaway and delivery services, while indoor entertainment, hotels and other accommodation will close.
The 10pm curfew will be relaxed, with last orders now closed at that time and premises ordered to shut at 11pm.
(PA Graphics)
Setting out other measures that will be eased as the lockdown lifts, Mr Johnson said: “From next Wednesday people will be able to leave their home for any purpose and meet others in outdoor public spaces, subject to the rule of six, collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume, and shops, personal care, gyms and the wider leisure sector can reopen.
“But without sensible precautions, we would risk the virus escalating into a winter or New Year surge.”
Details of which areas will be in which tiers will be set out on Thursday, Mr Johnson said.
“I’m sorry to say we expect that more regions will fall at least temporarily into higher levels than before,” he warned.
(PA Graphics)
A plan to allow families to be reunited for Christmas is being thrashed out with the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but Mr Johnson was unable to confirm details on Monday.
“We all want some kind of Christmas, we need it, we certainly feel we deserve it,” he said.
“But what we don’t want is to throw caution to the winds and allow the virus to flare up again, forcing us all back into lockdown in January.”
He acknowledged coronavirus “is obviously not going to grant a Christmas truce” and warned that families will need to make a careful judgment about the risk of visiting elderly relatives.
Despite the tougher measures, the Government’s scientific advisers warned they might not go far enough and a “Tier 4” may be required in areas where Tier 3 restrictions are not able to shrink the epidemic.
The Sage scientific advisory panel also questioned the value of Tier 1, concluding that “Tier 2 is the minimum intervention required to maintain any degree of control on transmission”.
The latest figures showed a further 206 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Monday and there had been 15,450 more lab-confirmed cases.
As well as the progress on vaccines, Mr Johnson pointed to the expansion of rapid mass testing as a way of returning to something approaching normality.
This could include allowing people who test negative greater freedoms and the prospect of a daily test replacing precautionary self-isolation for people who come into contact with a coronavirus case.
Despite the progress on a vaccine and the testing developments, Mr Johnson acknowledged “this will still be a hard winter, Christmas cannot be normal and there is a long road to spring”.
“But we have turned a corner and the escape route is in sight,” he said.
Read the COVID-19 Winter Plan here ⬇ — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) November 23, 2020
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the Prime Minister’s strategy was “risky” because the previous tiered system failed.
With Tory unrest over the impact of the restrictions on the economy and civil liberties, Labour support could be crucial and Sir Keir said his party had backed previous measures.
“Ideally, I’d like to be in a position to do so again,” he said. “But there are huge gaps in this plan, huge uncertainties and huge risks.”
While retailers welcomed the announcement that they will be allowed to reopen, there was fury in the hospitality and arts industries.
Acting Confederation of British Industry chief Josh Hardie said: “Positive news of vaccines offers a ray of light for 2021.
“But the next few weeks and months will for many feel like purgatory – stuck in limbo between a national lockdown and a new normal.”
Kate Nicholls, of trade body UKHospitality, said: “They are killing Christmas and beyond for many businesses and their customers who look forward to, and rely on, venues being open at this time of year.
“Sadly, for many staff, it will be a Christmas out of work.”
But Helen Dickinson of the British Retail Consortium said: “The Government’s decision to keep all of retail open will help to preserve jobs and the economy and help keep Christmas a festive occasion for everyone.”
Meanwhile Che Donald, national vice chairman of the Police Federation, said a possible relaxation of rules over Christmas coupled with a return to the tier system would be “next to impossible” for officers to enforce.