kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-27--16 weird but practical gifts people will actually use

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
Life gets better when it gets a little weird , and the same is true for gift-giving .
While everyone around you is busy snatching up Instant Pots and gift cards , do n't just blend in with the crowd .
You can stand out—in a good way—and have a little fun along the way by gifting a few of these hilariously odd but also really useful products .
From skin cream made from snail goo to bamboo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creations not only kick the surprise factor up a notch but could also help solve problems that your friends and family did n't even know they had .
Here are the 16 zaniest , most extraordinary products we love as gifts .
1 .
For the beauty lover : This luxurious yet icky cream made from snail ooze The new big beauty thing ?
It 's snails .
More specifically , it 's snail slime .
If the thought of putting icky snail goo all over your face makes your skin crawl ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're talking about snails , `` glide '' ) , then you aren ’ t the only one .
But even still , this beauty ingredient is all the rage right now because apparently , it works .
Get the Y.F.M Snail Cream on Amazon for £12.99 2 .
For the constant traveller : This innovative travel pillow We 're currently in the middle of testing travel pillows here at Reviewed , but if you ask me , the J-Pillow is the only one that matters .
Designed by a flight attendant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2012 , this pillow does n't look anything like other travel pillows and that 's part of why it 's so good .
It comes in a J-shape ( hence the name ) , and the hook of J is used to support your chin and keep your head from falling forward , while the rest provides support for your head to lean against .
Another perk to the J-Pillow ?
It 's incredibly soft to the touch , too .
Get the J-Pillow and Carrying Bag on Amazon for £19.95 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy ramen cooker Everyone lives on ramen at university , and I do n't mean the fancy restaurant kind either .
I 'm referring to the cheap , salty , limp noodle kind that gives you heartburn after but you do n't care because it 's so delicious you just ca n't stop yourself .
This little rapid cooker takes the already basic method for cooking ramen and just speeds it up , meaning your student giftee can prep ramen using just their kettle and microwave , without having to spend money they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Get the Sistema Microwave Noodle Bowl on Amazon for £4.99 4 .
For the fashionista : This fabric shaver that makes old sweaters cute again I have a confession to make , and I 'm not proud of it .
Over the years , I 've shipped scores of jumpers off to the island of misfit clothes because they got too pilly way too quickly and I thought there was no coming back from that .
As it happens , a fabric defuzzer would have solved all those problems and restored those fuzzy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glory , if only I 'd known better .
Do n't let the fashion lover in your life make my mistake—gift them this top-rated fabric shaver and I promise you , they 'll be grateful if they do n't already have one .
Get the Fabric Fabric Shaver on Amazon for £19.99 5 .
For the one who 's always wearing baseball hats : This funky frame that makes them easy to wash Does anyone reading this know if you can wash baseball hats ?
Spoiler alert : you can .
It might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trick to doing it , and this specially-designed hat frame actually helps to make it possible .
This cap washer works on the top-rack of any dishwasher and keeps hats from losing their shape .
It 's also safe on flat and curved hats and completely reusable , which means those dirty old hats your husband 's been hanging onto and refuses to get rid of ?
They 'll look brand new again thanks to this .
Get the Ballcap Buddy Cap Washer ( Pack of 2 ) on Amazon for £12.90 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snarls : This super-useful detangling brush With nearly 3,000 reviews on Amazon , this top-rated detangling brush commands attention .
Safe to use on wet or dry hair , this brush comes with strange , cone-shaped plastic bristles that actually work opposite from the way most other bristles do .
Instead of separating strands by moving down , it works sideways ( strange but true ! )
to gently unravel even the most stubborn snarls .
Reviewers say it 's gentle and good to use on children—even the most fidgety ones who absolutely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Get the Lily England Detangling Brush on Amazon for £9.95 7 .
For the restless sleeper : An affordable sound machine Know someone who struggles at bedtime to get a good night 's sleep ?
We posit all kinds of solutions here at Reviewed : oil diffusers , weighted blankets , you name it .
But the one everyone sort of forgets about—that is actually just as effective , if not more so—is a white noise machine .
This one by Big Red Rooster is one of our favourites .
It offers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ocean , thunder , and more , plus comes with an optional auto-off timer , which your giftee can set for 15 , 30 , or 60-minute intervals .
Get the Big Red Rooster 6-Sound White Noise Machine on Amazon for £19.99 8 .
For the movie buff : A way to make cinema-quality popcorn One of the main reasons most people even go to the movies anymore is the popcorn .
Try as they might at home , it 's just not so easy to replicate the taste and perfect delectability of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Well , this gift could change that .
This popcorn popper is great to gift anyone who really wants to skip the stovetop method and still get savoury kernels with each batch .
At first glance , it might not be clear what this popcorn maker is actually meant for , but it 's easy to use , collapses well , and looks so cute in bright red .
Get the Housewares Solutions Microwave Popcorn Maker on Amazon for £12.99 9 .
For the one who hates laundry : These time-saving wool dryer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more laundry there is to do .
Pro-tip though : these wool dryer balls can help cut down on the drying time and save money since they 're good for up to a thousand loads .
These chemical- and synthetic-free wool dryer balls are gentle on sensitive skin and made from filler-free premium New Zealand wool , plus they 're incredible eco-friendly to boot .
Get the Kin Tor Wool Dryer Balls on Amazon for £10.99 10 .
For the one who 's always dropping their phone : The best phone holder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting for true love to stroll through the door and change their lives .
Me ?
Turns out I was just waiting for a PopSocket actually .
I can not begin to stress how much my life changed for the better once I started using one , and I do n't even care if it sounds too effusive to be true , because I mean every word .
Before PopSockets came into my life , I was dropping phones left and right , constantly running up huge screen repair bills in the process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smartphone-related self-loathing and despair , and then suddenly , there it was : the solution .
PopSockets are equal parts fidget spinner and phone holder , but they 're also cute and easy to accessorize with your smartphone case or outfit .
Whether you 're shopping for stocking stuffers or just an extra gift to offer someone special , you ca n't go wrong with one .
Get the PopGrip PopSocket for £11.98 11 .
For the one who 's working from home : These comfortable earplugs Earplugs are n't just for concerts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just needs a quiet working environment , they can be the difference between reaching your goals or completely losing all your focus .
A pack comes with three different silicone ear tips , so you can adjust them to fit your ear .
They also come with a handy carrying case that can fit right in your palm or pocket , so they 're extremely portable too .
Get the Vibes Hi-Fidelity earplugs at Amazon for £21.95 12 .
For the one who wants mermaid ’ s hair : This unique styler It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curly hair wish they could wear it straight and those with naturally straight hair wish they could rock it loose and wavy like they just came home from the beach .
This deep waver by Toni & Guy can help transform those super-sleek straight strands into flowy waves , and according to reviewers , does it very quickly .
Get the Toni & Guy Deep Barrel Hair Waver on Amazon for £29.40 13 .
For the one who just wants to do better : These paper towels that are actually reusable Paper towels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environment , but they 're so ever-present that it can be hard for some to break the addiction to them .
These reusable paper towels are made from bamboo and are completely washable and ultra-absorbent .
If you 're shopping for someone who really cares about sustainability , these paper towels might not be on their radar yet but could make an amazing little surprise option for them .
Get the Bambaw Reusable Paper Towel on Amazon for £8.27 14 .
For the bride-to-be : This wacky but useful underskirt This might be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but It might be one of the most thoughtful too .
This wedding gown underskirt is designed to , well , you know .
It can help preserve the dress on the big day , which is crucial but also help the bride visit the loo when needed , too .
While it 's a little off-kilter as a gift , chances are this product isn ’ t on the bride 's radar yet .
You can give her a big surprise , in a good way , and be the hero of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much extra .
Get the Bride Hero on Amazon for £39.83 15 .
For the bacon lover : This quick-and-easy bacon cooker you can use in the microwave Now before you immediately cringe over the thought of cooking bacon in a microwave , allow me to make a case for it .
Bacon , by default , is savoury yet also greasy , which is what makes it so bad for you .
Cooking it in a microwave—I know how it sounds—might seem sacrosanct , but reviewers say that the bacon that comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as good .
If you prep it with the right amount of time , you can actually get crispy bacon with up to 35 % less fat than usual , and it only takes a minute in the microwave to cook each slice .
Get the Sistema Microwave Easy Bacon from Amazon for £11.40 16 .
For the one who hates going to a nail salon ( but loves having soft feet ) : This dry foot file Sandal season is long gone , and now most of us have the feet to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to toughened calluses , feet take a beating over the summer months , but you can help your giftee get smooth , touchable feet easily with this electric foot file , which has over 3,000 reviews on Amazon and a dedicated fan base .
Get the Scholl Velvet Smooth Pedi Electric Foot File on Amazon for £14.19 The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change over time .

Life gets better when it gets a little weird, and the same is true for gift-giving. While everyone around you is busy snatching up Instant Pots and gift cards, don't just blend in with the crowd. You can stand out—in a good way—and have a little fun along the way by gifting a few of these hilariously odd but also really useful products.
From skin cream made from snail goo to bamboo kitchen towels, these strange but innovative creations not only kick the surprise factor up a notch but could also help solve problems that your friends and family didn't even know they had. Here are the 16 zaniest, most extraordinary products we love as gifts.
1. For the beauty lover: This luxurious yet icky cream made from snail ooze
Photo: Y.F.M
The new big beauty thing? It's snails. More specifically, it's snail slime. If the thought of putting icky snail goo all over your face makes your skin crawl (or in this case, since we're talking about snails, "glide"), then you aren’t the only one. But even still, this beauty ingredient is all the rage right now because apparently, it works.
Get the Y.F.M Snail Cream on Amazon for £12.99
2. For the constant traveller: This innovative travel pillow
Photo: J-Pillow
We're currently in the middle of testing travel pillows here at Reviewed, but if you ask me, the J-Pillow is the only one that matters. Designed by a flight attendant and named the British Invention of the Year in 2012, this pillow doesn't look anything like other travel pillows and that's part of why it's so good. It comes in a J-shape (hence the name), and the hook of J is used to support your chin and keep your head from falling forward, while the rest provides support for your head to lean against. Another perk to the J-Pillow? It's incredibly soft to the touch, too.
Get the J-Pillow and Carrying Bag on Amazon for £19.95
3. For the university student: This easy ramen cooker
Photo: Sistema
Everyone lives on ramen at university, and I don't mean the fancy restaurant kind either. I'm referring to the cheap, salty, limp noodle kind that gives you heartburn after but you don't care because it's so delicious you just can't stop yourself. This little rapid cooker takes the already basic method for cooking ramen and just speeds it up, meaning your student giftee can prep ramen using just their kettle and microwave, without having to spend money they don't really have on Deliveroo.
Get the Sistema Microwave Noodle Bowl on Amazon for £4.99
4. For the fashionista: This fabric shaver that makes old sweaters cute again
Photo: Philips
I have a confession to make, and I'm not proud of it. Over the years, I've shipped scores of jumpers off to the island of misfit clothes because they got too pilly way too quickly and I thought there was no coming back from that. As it happens, a fabric defuzzer would have solved all those problems and restored those fuzzy, cosy tops to their former snuggly glory, if only I'd known better. Don't let the fashion lover in your life make my mistake—gift them this top-rated fabric shaver and I promise you, they'll be grateful if they don't already have one.
Get the Fabric Fabric Shaver on Amazon for £19.99
5. For the one who's always wearing baseball hats: This funky frame that makes them easy to wash
Photo: Baseball Cap Buddy
Does anyone reading this know if you can wash baseball hats? Spoiler alert: you can. It might seem hard, but there's a trick to doing it, and this specially-designed hat frame actually helps to make it possible. This cap washer works on the top-rack of any dishwasher and keeps hats from losing their shape. It's also safe on flat and curved hats and completely reusable, which means those dirty old hats your husband's been hanging onto and refuses to get rid of? They'll look brand new again thanks to this.
Get the Ballcap Buddy Cap Washer (Pack of 2) on Amazon for £12.90
6. For the one with too many snarls: This super-useful detangling brush
Photo: Lily England
With nearly 3,000 reviews on Amazon, this top-rated detangling brush commands attention. Safe to use on wet or dry hair, this brush comes with strange, cone-shaped plastic bristles that actually work opposite from the way most other bristles do. Instead of separating strands by moving down, it works sideways (strange but true!) to gently unravel even the most stubborn snarls. Reviewers say it's gentle and good to use on children—even the most fidgety ones who absolutely can't stand getting their hair brushed.
Get the Lily England Detangling Brush on Amazon for £9.95
7. For the restless sleeper: An affordable sound machine
Photo: Big Red Rooster
Know someone who struggles at bedtime to get a good night's sleep? We posit all kinds of solutions here at Reviewed: oil diffusers, weighted blankets, you name it. But the one everyone sort of forgets about—that is actually just as effective, if not more so—is a white noise machine. This one by Big Red Rooster is one of our favourites. It offers six different sounds, including rain, ocean, thunder, and more, plus comes with an optional auto-off timer, which your giftee can set for 15, 30, or 60-minute intervals.
Get the Big Red Rooster 6-Sound White Noise Machine on Amazon for £19.99
8. For the movie buff: A way to make cinema-quality popcorn
Photo: Housewares Solutions
One of the main reasons most people even go to the movies anymore is the popcorn. Try as they might at home, it's just not so easy to replicate the taste and perfect delectability of popcorn made right at the cinema. Well, this gift could change that. This popcorn popper is great to gift anyone who really wants to skip the stovetop method and still get savoury kernels with each batch. At first glance, it might not be clear what this popcorn maker is actually meant for, but it's easy to use, collapses well, and looks so cute in bright red.
Get the Housewares Solutions Microwave Popcorn Maker on Amazon for £12.99
9. For the one who hates laundry: These time-saving wool dryer balls
Photo: Kin Tor
The bigger a family gets, the more laundry there is to do. Pro-tip though: these wool dryer balls can help cut down on the drying time and save money since they're good for up to a thousand loads. These chemical- and synthetic-free wool dryer balls are gentle on sensitive skin and made from filler-free premium New Zealand wool, plus they're incredible eco-friendly to boot.
Get the Kin Tor Wool Dryer Balls on Amazon for £10.99
10. For the one who's always dropping their phone: The best phone holder on the market
Photo: PopSocket
Some people are just waiting for true love to stroll through the door and change their lives. Me? Turns out I was just waiting for a PopSocket actually. I cannot begin to stress how much my life changed for the better once I started using one, and I don't even care if it sounds too effusive to be true, because I mean every word. Before PopSockets came into my life, I was dropping phones left and right, constantly running up huge screen repair bills in the process and trapped in an all-consuming cycle of smartphone-related self-loathing and despair, and then suddenly, there it was: the solution.
PopSockets are equal parts fidget spinner and phone holder, but they're also cute and easy to accessorize with your smartphone case or outfit. Whether you're shopping for stocking stuffers or just an extra gift to offer someone special, you can't go wrong with one.
Get the PopGrip PopSocket for £11.98
11. For the one who's working from home: These comfortable earplugs
Photo: Vibes
Earplugs aren't just for concerts. For anyone who does cycling or just needs a quiet working environment, they can be the difference between reaching your goals or completely losing all your focus. A pack comes with three different silicone ear tips, so you can adjust them to fit your ear. They also come with a handy carrying case that can fit right in your palm or pocket, so they're extremely portable too.
Get the Vibes Hi-Fidelity earplugs at Amazon for £21.95
12. For the one who wants mermaid’s hair: This unique styler
Photo:Toni & Guy
It's the eternal struggle: folks with curly hair wish they could wear it straight and those with naturally straight hair wish they could rock it loose and wavy like they just came home from the beach. This deep waver by Toni & Guy can help transform those super-sleek straight strands into flowy waves, and according to reviewers, does it very quickly.
Get the Toni & Guy Deep Barrel Hair Waver on Amazon for £29.40
13. For the one who just wants to do better: These paper towels that are actually reusable
Photo: Bambaw
Paper towels are extremely wasteful and bad for the environment, but they're so ever-present that it can be hard for some to break the addiction to them. These reusable paper towels are made from bamboo and are completely washable and ultra-absorbent. If you're shopping for someone who really cares about sustainability, these paper towels might not be on their radar yet but could make an amazing little surprise option for them.
Get the Bambaw Reusable Paper Towel on Amazon for £8.27
14. For the bride-to-be: This wacky but useful underskirt
Photo: Bride Hero
This might be the craziest gift you ever give, but It might be one of the most thoughtful too. This wedding gown underskirt is designed to, well, you know. It can help preserve the dress on the big day, which is crucial but also help the bride visit the loo when needed, too. While it's a little off-kilter as a gift, chances are this product isn’t on the bride's radar yet. You can give her a big surprise, in a good way, and be the hero of her wedding day without even really doing much extra.
Get the Bride Hero on Amazon for £39.83
15. For the bacon lover: This quick-and-easy bacon cooker you can use in the microwave
Credit: Sistema
Now before you immediately cringe over the thought of cooking bacon in a microwave, allow me to make a case for it. Bacon, by default, is savoury yet also greasy, which is what makes it so bad for you. Cooking it in a microwave—I know how it sounds—might seem sacrosanct, but reviewers say that the bacon that comes out of this cooker really is just as good. If you prep it with the right amount of time, you can actually get crispy bacon with up to 35% less fat than usual, and it only takes a minute in the microwave to cook each slice.
Get the Sistema Microwave Easy Bacon from Amazon for £11.40
16. For the one who hates going to a nail salon (but loves having soft feet): This dry foot file
Photo: Scholl
Sandal season is long gone, and now most of us have the feet to show for it. From dry skin to toughened calluses, feet take a beating over the summer months, but you can help your giftee get smooth, touchable feet easily with this electric foot file, which has over 3,000 reviews on Amazon and a dedicated fan base.
Get the Scholl Velvet Smooth Pedi Electric Foot File on Amazon for £14.19
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-27--Ombersley farm shop reopens to sell what's left after fire

A FARM shop owner has thanked the community for their support after his business and home were destroyed in a fire .
Brett Wilkinson , owner of The Farm Shop at Ombersley , said thousands of people have offered to help him get back on his feet after the fire , which saw his shop and home go up in flames .
Mr Wilkinson said : “ Someone delivered two car loads of food and clothes .
Someone even offered me a house to stay in which is fully furnished .
`` A man saw me sitting outside on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his house that he ’ s not using in Fernhill Heath .
But I told him I wanted to stay next to my sinking ship.
” The popular shop was destroyed in the blaze Mr Wilkinson described the shop as his `` whole life '' and said he has nothing left , as the fire burnt down his shop with £150,000 worth of stock inside , as well as his house , which is situated behind the store .
He has been camping in the store ’ s car park since the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I try and stay out of the limelight as much as I can , so all this support I have received has been a shock really .
“ I have only just stopped crying about it all .
I am not used to all this positive support .
I find it hard to accept any help as I don ’ t want to seem like a beggar .
“ I started off from nothing , with £20 in my pocket , and it ’ s taken me 16 years to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I will have to start from square one again.
” Eight fire crews were sent to tackle the fire in Holt Fleet Road Builders and architects have offered their services free of charge to help rebuild the shop .
Mr Wilksinson reopened his shop on Wednesday morning and will be selling compost and plants as “ that ’ s all that is left.
” He added : “ I have never had a day off before so I ’ m excited to reopen .
If I had any longer off work , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my motivation back.
” Eight fire crews were sent out to tackle the blaze at the shop on Holt Fleet Road .
Mr Wilkinson was out delivering supplies to people self-isolating when he received a call to say that the shop was on fire .

Brett Wilkinson, owner of The Farm Shop at Ombersley, said thousands of people have offered to help him get back on his feet after the fire, which saw his shop and home go up in flames.
Mr Wilkinson said: “Someone delivered two car loads of food and clothes. Someone even offered me a house to stay in which is fully furnished.
"A man saw me sitting outside on the car park and said I could stay in his house that he’s not using in Fernhill Heath. But I told him I wanted to stay next to my sinking ship.”
The popular shop was destroyed in the blaze
Mr Wilkinson described the shop as his "whole life" and said he has nothing left, as the fire burnt down his shop with £150,000 worth of stock inside, as well as his house, which is situated behind the store.
He has been camping in the store’s car park since the fire on Saturday afternoon.
He added: “I try and stay out of the limelight as much as I can, so all this support I have received has been a shock really.
“I have only just stopped crying about it all. I am not used to all this positive support. I find it hard to accept any help as I don’t want to seem like a beggar.
“I started off from nothing, with £20 in my pocket, and it’s taken me 16 years to get to where I am. And now I will have to start from square one again.”
Eight fire crews were sent to tackle the fire in Holt Fleet Road
Builders and architects have offered their services free of charge to help rebuild the shop.
Mr Wilksinson reopened his shop on Wednesday morning and will be selling compost and plants as “that’s all that is left.”
He added: “I have never had a day off before so I’m excited to reopen. If I had any longer off work, I’d find it difficult to get my motivation back.”
Eight fire crews were sent out to tackle the blaze at the shop on Holt Fleet Road.
Mr Wilkinson was out delivering supplies to people self-isolating when he received a call to say that the shop was on fire.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-27--50 years since Severn Valley Railway ran first public train

FIFTY years ago , the Severn Valley Railway ran its first public train between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade .
A section of the line was opened for public passenger services on May 23 , 1970 - the first service being the 2pm from Bridgnorth , hauled by locomotive 3205 .
The only trains to run on the line before that date had been for SVR members and day members only , with the approval of British Rail .
The first public SVR service was the 2pm from Bridgnorth , hauled by locomotive 3205 .
Photo by Ben Brooksbank Opening the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the unstinting efforts of a pioneering group of railway enthusiasts .
They had formed the Severn Valley Railway Society at the Coopers Arms pub in Kidderminster five years earlier in 1965 .
The SVR Society managed to raise 25 per cent of the £25,000 purchase price for a closed five-mile section of the line from Bridgnorth to Alveley .
By 1967 , the first rolling stock , an engine and four coaches , had been received .
The next three years were spent restoring the line to operating condition , and overcoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Light Railway Order , from the Department of Environment .
The remainder of the purchase price was paid shortly after the first public train took to the tracks .
Chairman of the SVR Company David Williams says the first day of running was a rather rushed affair , and didn ’ t allow him the pleasure of being there in person .
He said : `` This seemingly inexcusable fact was because the date of reopening was not known until the Light Railway Order dropped through the SVR Company letterbox , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This meant that two of the railway ’ s most prolific and keen photographers , David Cooke and myself , newly equipped with Pentaxes , were on holiday !
`` An SVR party of eight had booked flights to Portugal some three months earlier.
” • £650,000 raised to help SVR recover from pandemic This clash of events , along with some uncharacteristically dull and hazy weather on launch day meant that very few photos were taken of the first day of running .
David said : “ Don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young , keen SVR supporters were quite poor , and colour photography was very expensive .
`` The nation ’ s top wealthy photographers had yet to discover where Bridgnorth was on the map , and were still mourning the then recent loss of BR steam.
” Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of that historic day , although the railway 's enforced closure due to coronavirus has meant its plans to celebrate could n't go ahead .
General manager Helen Smith said : “ Although it ’ s very sad that we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historic milestone as we would have wished , I think it ’ s fitting that as an organisation we ’ re still working hard to overcome the challenges now thrown at us by the impact of coronavirus .
The Severn Valley Railway is celebrating 50 years since its first public train took to the tracks at Bridgnorth .
Photo by Dave Hill '' Plenty of virtual celebration has taken place on social media , with many people posting memories and photographs from 50 years ago , and we ’ re grateful to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from its archive .
`` We ’ re proud to honour the spirit of those fearless pioneers who started everything , because without their tireless efforts , we wouldn ’ t have this wonderful railway .
`` Thank you to everyone who ’ s given money to our Fight Back Fund , which now stands at £700,000.
” People can help the SVR recover its losses as a result of the pandemic by donating online at svrtrust.org.uk .

A section of the line was opened for public passenger services on May 23, 1970 - the first service being the 2pm from Bridgnorth, hauled by locomotive 3205.
The only trains to run on the line before that date had been for SVR members and day members only, with the approval of British Rail.
The first public SVR service was the 2pm from Bridgnorth, hauled by locomotive 3205. Photo by Ben Brooksbank
Opening the line to the public was the culmination of the unstinting efforts of a pioneering group of railway enthusiasts.
They had formed the Severn Valley Railway Society at the Coopers Arms pub in Kidderminster five years earlier in 1965.
The SVR Society managed to raise 25 per cent of the £25,000 purchase price for a closed five-mile section of the line from Bridgnorth to Alveley.
By 1967, the first rolling stock, an engine and four coaches, had been received.
The next three years were spent restoring the line to operating condition, and overcoming considerable difficulties to obtain the legal authority, a Light Railway Order, from the Department of Environment.
The remainder of the purchase price was paid shortly after the first public train took to the tracks.
Chairman of the SVR Company David Williams says the first day of running was a rather rushed affair, and didn’t allow him the pleasure of being there in person.
He said: "This seemingly inexcusable fact was because the date of reopening was not known until the Light Railway Order dropped through the SVR Company letterbox, with only a fortnight’s notice.
"This meant that two of the railway’s most prolific and keen photographers, David Cooke and myself, newly equipped with Pentaxes, were on holiday!
"An SVR party of eight had booked flights to Portugal some three months earlier.”
Read more:
This clash of events, along with some uncharacteristically dull and hazy weather on launch day meant that very few photos were taken of the first day of running.
David said: “Don’t forget that it was a period when young, keen SVR supporters were quite poor, and colour photography was very expensive.
"The nation’s top wealthy photographers had yet to discover where Bridgnorth was on the map, and were still mourning the then recent loss of BR steam.”
Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of that historic day, although the railway's enforced closure due to coronavirus has meant its plans to celebrate couldn't go ahead.
General manager Helen Smith said: “Although it’s very sad that we’ve not been able to mark this historic milestone as we would have wished, I think it’s fitting that as an organisation we’re still working hard to overcome the challenges now thrown at us by the impact of coronavirus.
The Severn Valley Railway is celebrating 50 years since its first public train took to the tracks at Bridgnorth. Photo by Dave Hill
"Plenty of virtual celebration has taken place on social media, with many people posting memories and photographs from 50 years ago, and we’re grateful to The Shuttle for allowing us to use items from its archive.
"We’re proud to honour the spirit of those fearless pioneers who started everything, because without their tireless efforts, we wouldn’t have this wonderful railway.
"Thank you to everyone who’s given money to our Fight Back Fund, which now stands at £700,000.”
People can help the SVR recover its losses as a result of the pandemic by donating online at svrtrust.org.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-27--16 pieces of furniture to transform your patio

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
I don ’ t know about you , but one of the only things that gets me through the rainy , cold seasons is the promise of the perfect summer weather to come .
There ’ s nothing better than sitting out in the garden with a cold drink , soaking up the sun ’ s rays , and if you 've been working from home for the past few weeks , you 're probably looking for ways @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warms up .
If you 're looking to spend more time outdoors for the next few weeks ( or at least work on the porch for a few hours a day ) , you need comfortable patio decor to accommodate your needs .
Here are some of our favourite pieces of patio furniture to help you upgrade your space and enjoy the sun over the next few months .
Gather your friends and family around this outdoor table .
Credit : Primrose An outdoor dining table is a must if you want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for you , this seven-piece set from Primrose is both stylish and affordable .
It includes a 140-by-85 cm dining table , as well as six chairs with reversible cushions , and an adjustable parasol .
All the pieces are durable and weather-resistant Just place this set on an outdoor rug , and you ’ ve got the perfect al fresco dining spot .
Get the Hadleigh 6 Seater Garden Dining Furniture Set from Primrose for £499 How quaint is this wooden porch swing ?
Credit : Wayfair I can ’ t think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday morning than sitting on this porch swing , sipping a cup of tea and soaking up the sun .
This porch swing would make the perfect addition to your garden .
The hardwood construction has a beautiful natural finish , and you can make it your own by adding a pretty outdoor cushion .
Get the Arianna Hardwood Hanging Porch Swing from Wayfair for £142.99 This chaise lounge is the perfect place to sunbathe .
Credit : Primrose This stylish lounger is a must-have for anyone who loves laying out in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weather-resistant wicker , so you can leave them out all season .
The lounger has a curved frame that contours to your body , and comes with a matching side table .
Get the Alexander Rose Ocean Fiji Rattan Adjustable Sunbed Set from Primrose for £599.99 This outdoor sofa can seat up to five people .
Credit : Wayfair Turn your backyard into a second living room with the help of this four-piece sectional .
The outdoor sofa can seat up to five people on its L-shaped design , and it even comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest their drinks .
Get the Kirch 5 Seater Corner Sofa Set from Wayfair for £1059.99 This daybed is the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon nap .
Credit : Wayfair You can kick back and read a good book—or even take a nap—in this luxurious daybed .
This Mediterranian-inspired piece has a folding canopy to protect you from the sun and is UV and stain-resistant .
While undeniably on the expensive side , it ’ s a well-made statement piece your family will enjoy for years to come .
Get the Ines Beach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £939.99 Take a load off in this comfy chair .
Credit : made in Design It ’ s easy to create an outdoor seating area with these funky outdoor rocking chairs .
They come in a variety of colours , and their frames are made from weather-resistant metal and plastic that ’ s designed to be long-lasting .
Get the Click Rocking chair from made in Design for £399 This umbrella is offset for versatility .
Credit : Wayfair On particularly sunny days , you might find that direct sun is too hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cantilever umbrella like this one comes in handy .
The umbrella has an offset design , allowing you to put the base next to your outdoor seating area and have the canopy shade the space .
Get the Amazonia 3m Cantilever Parasol from Wayfair for £108.99 These side tables are sturdy and reliable .
Credit : Wayfair If you have chaise lounges or other chairs on your patio , make sure to put side tables next to them—otherwise , where will you put your drink ?
These side tables are extremely popular thanks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Get the Scheffer Wooden Side Table from Wayfair for £76.99 Arrange a few of these chairs around your firepit !
Credit : Wayfair Adirondack chairs make a stylish addition to any outdoor space , and these beautiful wooden ones are a great value .
They ’ re made from acacia wood and available in three finishes , and as an added bonus , they come with a built-in wine glass holder .
Reviewers note that these chairs are large , sturdy , and comfortable , and you can easily dress them up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Get the Imane Garden Chair from Wayfair for £169.99 You can store just about anything in one of these .
Credit : Wayfair If you ’ ve ever wished you had somewhere to store outdoor blankets , extra outdoor cushions , or other patio supplies , you ’ re in luck , because these outdoor storage bins are the perfect solution .
The rattan has a rustic grey finish , and their all-weather design is ideal for your porch or sunroom .
Get the Carola 1500 L Wicker Storage Box from Wayfair for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around to serve your guests .
Credit : Wayfair This compact bar cart is the ideal solution for small decks or patios .
It ’ s made from solid wood and has two wheels and a handle , letting you roll it around the space to serve your guests .
It has upper and lower shelves where you can store glassware , plates , and other outdoor necessities , and the bottom even has a wine bottle holder to ensure they don ’ t trip over during your drinks service .
Get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 .
A simple umbrella that tilts to protect you from the sun This umbrella tilts to better block the sun .
Credit : Wayfair Add a little shade to your patio with this 2.7-metre umbrella .
It comes in three colours and features a crank lift to help you open and close the canopy .
You can either mount it in an umbrella base or compatible patio table and what ’ s really great is that the canopy tilts , allowing you to shield yourself from the sun regardless of the angle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Wayfair for £47.99 Add some colour to your patio with this versatile rug .
Credit : Wayfair One of the easiest ways to tie together any space—indoors or outdoors—is with an area rug .
This bold and bright outdoor rug would be the perfect accent on your patio or sunroom .
The rug comes in several sizes and it ’ s made from weather-resistant polypropylene .
Get the Colne Cream Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug from Wayfair for £51.99 Give your patio a trendy upgrade with this unique chair .
Credit : Wayfair Looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finishing touch on your outdoor space ?
This “ egg ” chair is sure to get compliments from your guests , as it ’ s equally stylish and comfortable .
It features a wicker rattan frame that forms a little cocoon around you , yet the slated design keeps it from getting too hot .
The chair also comes with comfy cushions that can be used outdoors .
Get the Avie Garden Chair with Cushion from Wayfair for £305.99 Every sunroom needs a set of comfy chairs .
Credit : Wayfair Outfitting your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can get all the basic pieces you need for a comfortable outdoor area with this four-piece conversation set .
It includes two wicker chairs , a matching loveseat , and a small table to hold your drinks .
Get the Waterton 4 Seater Rattan Sofa Set from Wayfair for £919.99 If your home has a modern vibe , these unique rope chairs would blend in perfectly with your decor .
The chairs come in a variety of colours , and with the help of a small area rug and an accent pillow or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to create a sweet seating area on your small patio .
Get the Belrue Garden Chair from Wayfair for £123.99 The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , product reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

I don’t know about you, but one of the only things that gets me through the rainy, cold seasons is the promise of the perfect summer weather to come. There’s nothing better than sitting out in the garden with a cold drink, soaking up the sun’s rays, and if you've been working from home for the past few weeks, you're probably looking for ways to get outside more as the weather warms up.
If you're looking to spend more time outdoors for the next few weeks (or at least work on the porch for a few hours a day), you need comfortable patio decor to accommodate your needs. Here are some of our favourite pieces of patio furniture to help you upgrade your space and enjoy the sun over the next few months.
1. A stylish dining set that seats six
Gather your friends and family around this outdoor table. Credit: Primrose
An outdoor dining table is a must if you want to sit outside this summer, and luckily for you, this seven-piece set from Primrose is both stylish and affordable. It includes a 140-by-85 cm dining table, as well as six chairs with reversible cushions, and an adjustable parasol. All the pieces are durable and weather-resistant Just place this set on an outdoor rug, and you’ve got the perfect al fresco dining spot.
Get the Hadleigh 6 Seater Garden Dining Furniture Set from Primrose for £499
2. A classic porch swing for intimate conversations
How quaint is this wooden porch swing? Credit: Wayfair
I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday morning than sitting on this porch swing, sipping a cup of tea and soaking up the sun. This porch swing would make the perfect addition to your garden. The hardwood construction has a beautiful natural finish, and you can make it your own by adding a pretty outdoor cushion.
Get the Arianna Hardwood Hanging Porch Swing from Wayfair for £142.99
3. This stylish lounger for sunbathing
This chaise lounge is the perfect place to sunbathe. Credit: Primrose
This stylish lounger is a must-have for anyone who loves laying out in the sun. The chair is made from weather-resistant wicker, so you can leave them out all season. The lounger has a curved frame that contours to your body, and comes with a matching side table.
Get the Alexander Rose Ocean Fiji Rattan Adjustable Sunbed Set from Primrose for £599.99
4. A versatile outdoor sectional and table
This outdoor sofa can seat up to five people. Credit: Wayfair
Turn your backyard into a second living room with the help of this four-piece sectional. The outdoor sofa can seat up to five people on its L-shaped design, and it even comes with a matching table where everyone can rest their drinks.
Get the Kirch 5 Seater Corner Sofa Set from Wayfair for £1059.99
5. A luxurious outdoor daybed
This daybed is the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon nap. Credit: Wayfair
You can kick back and read a good book—or even take a nap—in this luxurious daybed. This Mediterranian-inspired piece has a folding canopy to protect you from the sun and is UV and stain-resistant. While undeniably on the expensive side, it’s a well-made statement piece your family will enjoy for years to come.
Get the Ines Beach Garden Daybed with Cushions from Wayfair for £939.99
6. A modern rocking chair
Take a load off in this comfy chair. Credit: made in Design
It’s easy to create an outdoor seating area with these funky outdoor rocking chairs. They come in a variety of colours, and their frames are made from weather-resistant metal and plastic that’s designed to be long-lasting.
Get the Click Rocking chair from made in Design for £399
7. This popular cantilever umbrella
This umbrella is offset for versatility. Credit: Wayfair
On particularly sunny days, you might find that direct sun is too hot to handle, which is when a cantilever umbrella like this one comes in handy. The umbrella has an offset design, allowing you to put the base next to your outdoor seating area and have the canopy shade the space.
Get the Amazonia 3m Cantilever Parasol from Wayfair for £108.99
8. Top-rated side tables
These side tables are sturdy and reliable. Credit: Wayfair
If you have chaise lounges or other chairs on your patio, make sure to put side tables next to them—otherwise, where will you put your drink? These side tables are extremely popular thanks to their elegant design and sturdy construction.
Get the Scheffer Wooden Side Table from Wayfair for £76.99
9. Beautiful wooden Adirondack chairs
Arrange a few of these chairs around your firepit! Credit: Wayfair
Adirondack chairs make a stylish addition to any outdoor space, and these beautiful wooden ones are a great value. They’re made from acacia wood and available in three finishes, and as an added bonus, they come with a built-in wine glass holder. Reviewers note that these chairs are large, sturdy, and comfortable, and you can easily dress them up with a few outdoor throw pillows.
Get the Imane Garden Chair from Wayfair for £169.99
10. Storage baskets for your outdoor supplies
You can store just about anything in one of these. Credit: Wayfair
If you’ve ever wished you had somewhere to store outdoor blankets, extra outdoor cushions, or other patio supplies, you’re in luck, because these outdoor storage bins are the perfect solution. The rattan has a rustic grey finish, and their all-weather design is ideal for your porch or sunroom.
Get the Carola 1500 L Wicker Storage Box from Wayfair for £157.99
11. This cute wooden bar cart
You can wheel this bar cart around to serve your guests. Credit: Wayfair
This compact bar cart is the ideal solution for small decks or patios. It’s made from solid wood and has two wheels and a handle, letting you roll it around the space to serve your guests. It has upper and lower shelves where you can store glassware, plates, and other outdoor necessities, and the bottom even has a wine bottle holder to ensure they don’t trip over during your drinks service.
Get the Ingrassellino Drink Trolley from Wayfair for £165.99
12. A simple umbrella that tilts to protect you from the sun
This umbrella tilts to better block the sun. Credit: Wayfair
Add a little shade to your patio with this 2.7-metre umbrella. It comes in three colours and features a crank lift to help you open and close the canopy. You can either mount it in an umbrella base or compatible patio table and what’s really great is that the canopy tilts, allowing you to shield yourself from the sun regardless of the angle.
Get the Freeport Park Traditional Parasol from Wayfair for £47.99
13. A colourful outdoor rug
Add some colour to your patio with this versatile rug. Credit: Wayfair
One of the easiest ways to tie together any space—indoors or outdoors—is with an area rug. This bold and bright outdoor rug would be the perfect accent on your patio or sunroom. The rug comes in several sizes and it’s made from weather-resistant polypropylene.
Get the Colne Cream Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug from Wayfair for £51.99
14. An eye-catching egg chair for a statement piece
Give your patio a trendy upgrade with this unique chair. Credit: Wayfair
Looking for a statement piece to be the finishing touch on your outdoor space? This “egg” chair is sure to get compliments from your guests, as it’s equally stylish and comfortable. It features a wicker rattan frame that forms a little cocoon around you, yet the slated design keeps it from getting too hot. The chair also comes with comfy cushions that can be used outdoors.
Get the Avie Garden Chair with Cushion from Wayfair for £305.99
15. A four-piece comfy sofa set
Every sunroom needs a set of comfy chairs. Credit: Wayfair
Outfitting your patio for the first time? You can get all the basic pieces you need for a comfortable outdoor area with this four-piece conversation set. It includes two wicker chairs, a matching loveseat, and a small table to hold your drinks.
Get the Waterton 4 Seater Rattan Sofa Set from Wayfair for £919.99
16. A modern rope chair
This cool chair has a distinctly modern vibe. Credit: Wayfair
If your home has a modern vibe, these unique rope chairs would blend in perfectly with your decor. The chairs come in a variety of colours, and with the help of a small area rug and an accent pillow or two, you’ll be able to create a sweet seating area on your small patio.
Get the Belrue Garden Chair from Wayfair for £123.99
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, product reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-27--Three new coronavirus deaths in Worcestershire hospitals

THERE have been three new deaths reported in Worcestershire hospitals from coronavirus .
In the latest daily figures released by NHS England , there have been three new deaths recorded following five days where no deaths at all were recorded .
There was one new death recorded in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust along with two new deaths in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust .
This means there have now been 273 deaths from coronavirus in Worcestershire hospitals .
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced ( the deaths did not all happen on the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further 183 people who tested positive for the coronavirus have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 26,049 .
Patients were aged between 43 and 101 years old .
Two of the 183 patients ( aged 81 and 91 ) had no known underlying health condition .
The Department for Health said 37,460 people had died in hospitals , care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on May 26 , up by 412 from 37,048 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a daily figure for deaths outside of hospitals but public Health England does not give a regional breakdown .
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
The Health and Care NHS Trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital and Pershore Community Hospital .

In the latest daily figures released by NHS England, there have been three new deaths recorded following five days where no deaths at all were recorded.
There was one new death recorded in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust along with two new deaths in the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust. This means there have now been 273 deaths from coronavirus in Worcestershire hospitals. The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced (the deaths did not all happen on the same day).
Across England, a further 183 people who tested positive for the coronavirus have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 26,049. Patients were aged between 43 and 101 years old. Two of the 183 patients (aged 81 and 91) had no known underlying health condition.
The Department for Health said 37,460 people had died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on May 26, up by 412 from 37,048 the day before.
The government releases a daily figure for deaths outside of hospitals but public Health England does not give a regional breakdown.
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The Health and Care NHS Trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital and Pershore Community Hospital.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Loved ones line street in emotional farewell to Kidderminster mum

HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to an inspirational Kidderminster mum who raised funds for charity and ran an uplifting blog while battling cancer for ten years .
Mother to 16-year-old Meghan and 13-year-old Joe , Gemma was well known in the community thanks to the Miss Positive Pants page on Facebook , where she kept her followers updated on her journey with the illness .
Her insights proved inspirational , and she gained support from people she had never met .
Gemma Durbin with her children Joe , 13 , and Meghan , 16 Gemma 's mum Jane Smith said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , people were so inspired by the way she dealt with her illness .
What an impact she left , if she helped one person she would be happy .
`` I felt so proud that I was her mum . ''
The Miss Positive Pants group was set up on Facebook by Gemma 's friends to raise funds after she was in need of a new washing machine and fridge freezer .
A total of £1,000 was also raised by a Stourport Slimming World group to help Gemma with a house deposit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 28 and received treatment for her illness .
But doctors found the cancer had spread to her liver , lungs , spine and hips in 2018 .
Her family and friends held an emotional farewell for her on May 18 , where her friends and supporters lined the route to the service dressed in Positive Pants t-shirts and holding pink ribbons .
Jane said : `` It was the most perfect send off .
She was the life and soul of any party , fun loving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing her bright pink lipstick .
Gemma 's friends turned out in pink Miss Positive Pants t-shirts to pay their respects '' The celebrant Julie Pember read out lots of tributes revealing funny stories over the years from her school friends and their later teenage years , there was so much laughter from the congregation .
`` Gemma 's 16-year-old daughter spoke of her love and pride for her mum 's courageous fight and Gemma 's best friend Naomi read a poem . ''
Gemma 's daughter Meghan has been so inspired by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be an oncologist .
Jane added : `` More tributes followed from the Positive Pants Page that was set up for Gemma where she would update her blog of her journey whilst fighting this dreadful disease .
• Plea to help pay vet bills after dog 'barely survived ' attack in Kidderminster '' Gemma inspired so many people , some who did n't even get to meet her but followed her story . ''
Due to the current restrictions on funerals , only 20 people could attend the service , but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Abba 's 'Dancing Queen ' to pay a fitting farewell .
Gemma had requested that any donations be made to the Breast Cancer Care , which has so far raised more than £1,600 , along with the sale of Miss Positive Pants merchandise .
Jane also hopes to continue Gemma 's work with the Positive Pants Walking Group once the Covid-19 pandemic is over .

Gemma Durbin passed away last month, aged 38.
Mother to 16-year-old Meghan and 13-year-old Joe, Gemma was well known in the community thanks to the Miss Positive Pants page on Facebook, where she kept her followers updated on her journey with the illness.
Her insights proved inspirational, and she gained support from people she had never met.
Gemma Durbin with her children Joe, 13, and Meghan, 16
Gemma's mum Jane Smith said: "She had a tremendous spirit, people were so inspired by the way she dealt with her illness. What an impact she left, if she helped one person she would be happy.
"I felt so proud that I was her mum."
The Miss Positive Pants group was set up on Facebook by Gemma's friends to raise funds after she was in need of a new washing machine and fridge freezer.
A total of £1,000 was also raised by a Stourport Slimming World group to help Gemma with a house deposit earlier this year.
Gemma was initially diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 28 and received treatment for her illness. But doctors found the cancer had spread to her liver, lungs, spine and hips in 2018.
Her family and friends held an emotional farewell for her on May 18, where her friends and supporters lined the route to the service dressed in Positive Pants t-shirts and holding pink ribbons.
Jane said: "It was the most perfect send off. She was the life and soul of any party, fun loving, with an infectious laugh and always wearing her bright pink lipstick.
Gemma's friends turned out in pink Miss Positive Pants t-shirts to pay their respects
"The celebrant Julie Pember read out lots of tributes revealing funny stories over the years from her school friends and their later teenage years, there was so much laughter from the congregation.
"Gemma's 16-year-old daughter spoke of her love and pride for her mum's courageous fight and Gemma's best friend Naomi read a poem."
Gemma's daughter Meghan has been so inspired by her mum that she wants to train to be an oncologist.
Jane added: "More tributes followed from the Positive Pants Page that was set up for Gemma where she would update her blog of her journey whilst fighting this dreadful disease.
Read more:
"Gemma inspired so many people, some who didn't even get to meet her but followed her story."
Due to the current restrictions on funerals, only 20 people could attend the service, but they followed Gemma's wishes and danced to Abba's 'Dancing Queen' to pay a fitting farewell.
Gemma had requested that any donations be made to the Breast Cancer Care, which has so far raised more than £1,600, along with the sale of Miss Positive Pants merchandise.
Jane also hopes to continue Gemma's work with the Positive Pants Walking Group once the Covid-19 pandemic is over.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Fears for elderly as 303 Kidderminster to Worcester bus suspended

CONCERNS have been raised that elderly people in Kidderminster will be `` cut off '' from vital services after a bus connecting the town to Worcester was suspended .
Diamond Bus has stopped running the 303 between Kidderminster and Worcester Bus Station , saying the service had been running at a `` considerable loss '' for the last year .
The decision has led to fears for elderly and disabled passengers in Kidderminster who use the bus on their route to hospital appointments at Worcestershire Royal .
Resident Dianne Hall said : `` There are thousands of people losing access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at hospitals , doctors and shops .
`` Hartlebury in particular and Ombersley will be cut off completely .
`` People in Worcester wo n't be able to get to Kidderminster Hospital and people in Kidderminster wo n't be able to get to Worcester .
`` There are a lot of students that use the bus to get to college in Worcester as well .
`` There are disabled people in Kidderminster who ca n't walk to the train station as it 's over a mile away - then when they get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` A lot of people I know have no other means of transport , unless they start paying £20 in a taxi .
Most pensioners ca n't afford that .
`` I know a lot of elderly people have n't been using public transport because of the lockdown , but they will need it again when this is all over .
People are going to be distraught . ''
A spokesman for Diamond Bus said : “ Diamond have been in consultation regarding the service 303 with Worcestershire County Council for some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ County Council are considering ways in which some kind of service could be delivered .
`` The service has been operated by Diamond Bus at a considerable loss for a period of 24 months and in the current economic climate , the company is unable to continue to sustain those losses .
`` In order to operate the service in the short-term future whilst maintaining current social distancing guidelines and competition from the Kidderminster to Worcester rail line , the service would require a significant subsidy .
`` We are happy to consider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , however at this moment in time we have no option but to continue to suspend this service .
`` We have received communications from both Councillor Alan Amos and MP Mark Garnier regarding the service , both of whom are keen to work with the authorities to try and establish appropriate funding , and we hope that a resolution that meets our business needs and that of local residents can be found as soon as possible.
” Worcestershire County Council confirmed it was in talks with concerned parties regarding the 303 's @ @

Diamond Bus has stopped running the 303 between Kidderminster and Worcester Bus Station, saying the service had been running at a "considerable loss" for the last year.
The decision has led to fears for elderly and disabled passengers in Kidderminster who use the bus on their route to hospital appointments at Worcestershire Royal.
Resident Dianne Hall said: "There are thousands of people losing access to this bus service and vital services at hospitals, doctors and shops.
"Hartlebury in particular and Ombersley will be cut off completely.
"People in Worcester won't be able to get to Kidderminster Hospital and people in Kidderminster won't be able to get to Worcester.
"There are a lot of students that use the bus to get to college in Worcester as well.
"There are disabled people in Kidderminster who can't walk to the train station as it's over a mile away - then when they get to Worcester, they have to walk again.
"A lot of people I know have no other means of transport, unless they start paying £20 in a taxi. Most pensioners can't afford that.
"I know a lot of elderly people haven't been using public transport because of the lockdown, but they will need it again when this is all over. People are going to be distraught."
A spokesman for Diamond Bus said: “Diamond have been in consultation regarding the service 303 with Worcestershire County Council for some time, and in partnership with Worcestershire County Council are considering ways in which some kind of service could be delivered.
"The service has been operated by Diamond Bus at a considerable loss for a period of 24 months and in the current economic climate, the company is unable to continue to sustain those losses.
"In order to operate the service in the short-term future whilst maintaining current social distancing guidelines and competition from the Kidderminster to Worcester rail line, the service would require a significant subsidy.
"We are happy to consider any financial proposal to reinstate the service, however at this moment in time we have no option but to continue to suspend this service.
"We have received communications from both Councillor Alan Amos and MP Mark Garnier regarding the service, both of whom are keen to work with the authorities to try and establish appropriate funding, and we hope that a resolution that meets our business needs and that of local residents can be found as soon as possible.”
Worcestershire County Council confirmed it was in talks with concerned parties regarding the 303's future.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Re-opening schools will create 'hotbed of infection' says Worcestershire teachers union

A TEACHING union says re-opening schools next week would be dangerous and create a “ hotbed of infection ” leading to a second spike in coronavirus cases .
County leaders of the National Education Union ( NEU ) said opening schools to more than just the children of keyworkers and vulnerable pupils on June 1 would not be safe , and more kids should only return to school when the virus risk was much lower .
Some of the county ’ s primary schools will be re-opening to the youngest pupils in Reception and Year 1 as well as children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) as part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s plan to start easing coronavirus lockdown measures .
Schools were closed to students except for the children of keyworkers and vulnerable pupils on March 20 .
Stephen Baker , joint secretary of the state education branch of Worcestershire NEU , said more children going to school from next week would create a “ hotbed of infection ” and cause a second spike in Covid-19 cases , and the proposed test and trace system was not fit for purpose .
“ The government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April of its original testing regime , only meeting its deadline of 100,000 tests on the deadline day itself and not for some time after , ” he said .
“ We are told there will be a test and trace system ready by June 1 but the track record of the government on getting things ready leads us to doubt its effectiveness .
Nor do we think the plans in Worcestershire for testing and tracing are fit for purpose .
“ They will not immediately test the contacts of someone who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; they will only trace and test contacts when there is a second case .
That could be 14 days later .
How many more people will have been infected in a school environment by that time ?
What are the plans for self-isolation when that first person tests positive ?
We do not know .
“ Re-opening more widely on June 1 risks creating a hotbed for infection in our schools and a second spike .
”

County leaders of the National Education Union (NEU) said opening schools to more than just the children of keyworkers and vulnerable pupils on June 1 would not be safe, and more kids should only return to school when the virus risk was much lower.
Some of the county’s primary schools will be re-opening to the youngest pupils in Reception and Year 1 as well as children in Year 6 from Monday (June 1) as part of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s plan to start easing coronavirus lockdown measures.
Schools were closed to students except for the children of keyworkers and vulnerable pupils on March 20.
Stephen Baker, joint secretary of the state education branch of Worcestershire NEU, said more children going to school from next week would create a “hotbed of infection” and cause a second spike in Covid-19 cases, and the proposed test and trace system was not fit for purpose.
“The government had significant teething trouble with the launch in April of its original testing regime, only meeting its deadline of 100,000 tests on the deadline day itself and not for some time after,” he said.
“We are told there will be a test and trace system ready by June 1 but the track record of the government on getting things ready leads us to doubt its effectiveness. Nor do we think the plans in Worcestershire for testing and tracing are fit for purpose.
“They will not immediately test the contacts of someone who tests positive for coronavirus in a school; they will only trace and test contacts when there is a second case. That could be 14 days later. How many more people will have been infected in a school environment by that time? What are the plans for self-isolation when that first person tests positive? We do not know.
“Re-opening more widely on June 1 risks creating a hotbed for infection in our schools and a second spike.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Here's the line-up for series two of Channel 4's Celebrity Gogglebox

The line-up for series two of Channel 4 's Celebrity Gogglebox has been revealed .
Several of Britain 's best @ @ @ @ @ sofa , and turn their hand to being some of the country 's most opinionated @ @ @ @ @ series .
The show kicks off on Friday , June 5 at 9pm on Channel @ @ @ @ @ will star in this year 's series .
Among those taking part this series are @ @ @ @ @ boxer Nicola Adams and her partner Ella Nicola Adams , right , with her partner @ @ @ @ @ nicolaadamsobe/Instagram Series two of Celebrity Gogglebox starts on Channel 4 at 9pm on Friday , @ @ @ @ @

Several of Britain's best loved personalities will hit the sofa, and turn their hand to being some of the country's most opinionated viewers in the brand new series.
The show kicks off on Friday, June 5 at 9pm on Channel 4.
Here's who will star in this year's series.
Among those taking part this series are:
Actress Denise Van Outen and her partner Eddi
Radio 1 presenter Nick Grimshaw and his niece Liv
TV personality Joe Swash and panelist on ITV's Loose Women Stacey Solomon
Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash. Picture: @staceysolomon/Instagram
Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball and her son Woody Cook
Zoe Ball and her son Woody Cook. Picture: @zoetheball/Instagram
Former British Professional boxer Nicola Adams and her partner Ella
Nicola Adams, right, with her partner Ella. Picture: @nicolaadamsobe/Instagram
Football legend Harry Redknapp and wife Sandra
ITV2 Love Island host Laura Whitmore and comedian Iain Stirling
 DUO: Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling. Picture: @TheWhitmore/Instagram
Series two of Celebrity Gogglebox starts on Channel 4 at 9pm on Friday, June 5, 2020.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Health Secretary says Coronavirus isolation may become mandatory

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said there are currently around 5,000 to 7,000 unknown positive cases of coronavirus in the country .
Asked what would result in the test and trace self-isolation system being made mandatory , Mr Hancock told BBC Breakfast : “ Obviously we ’ re going to track very carefully the proportion of people who do what they are instructed to do by the NHS.
” In response to a viewer raising GDPR concerns , Mr Hancock added : “ There are very strict confidentiality rules that are in place .
“ Actually , in practice , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proportion of people have that sort of reaction.
” Asked who will pay someone ’ s wages if they have to self-isolate more than once , Mr Hancock said : “ The onus is on employers … when you ’ re instructed to go home by the NHS that is equivalent to being off ill and we did put in place support much earlier in the crisis to deal with this challenge – it is a very significant problem .
“ At the moment we estimate there is around 9,000 , 7,000 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we know who 2,000 of those are , we ’ ve got to hunt them down .
Because that is how we get on top of the virus and lift the wider lockdown measures.
” Mr Hancock said people will not receive penalties for not abiding by the NHS test and trace self-isolation period “ in the first instance ” .
Pushed on people ’ s concerns about fraudulent NHS calls , Mr Hancock told LBC : “ If anybody calls they will be calling from the number 03000135000 , if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS and they will never ask you for any form of payment or purchase or details of your bank account , and also you will then be given , if you ’ re online , a QR code to be able to confirm those details online .
”

Asked what would result in the test and trace self-isolation system being made mandatory, Mr Hancock told BBC Breakfast: “Obviously we’re going to track very carefully the proportion of people who do what they are instructed to do by the NHS.”
In response to a viewer raising GDPR concerns, Mr Hancock added: “There are very strict confidentiality rules that are in place.
“Actually, in practice, we’ve found that only a tiny proportion of people have that sort of reaction.”
Asked who will pay someone’s wages if they have to self-isolate more than once, Mr Hancock said: “The onus is on employers … when you’re instructed to go home by the NHS that is equivalent to being off ill and we did put in place support much earlier in the crisis to deal with this challenge – it is a very significant problem.
“At the moment we estimate there is around 9,000, 7,000 to 9,000, positive cases in the country, we know who 2,000 of those are, we’ve got to hunt them down. Because that is how we get on top of the virus and lift the wider lockdown measures.”
Mr Hancock said people will not receive penalties for not abiding by the NHS test and trace self-isolation period “in the first instance”.
Pushed on people’s concerns about fraudulent NHS calls, Mr Hancock told LBC: “If anybody calls they will be calling from the number 03000135000, if you get a text it will come from NHS and they will never ask you for any form of payment or purchase or details of your bank account, and also you will then be given, if you’re online, a QR code to be able to confirm those details online.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--This is who the NHS needs to donate blood plasma to treat Covid patients

The NHS have revealed which people they need to donate blood plasma to help cure coronavirus patients .
Initial findings from tests carried out on blood plasma donations taken from recovered Covid-19 patients by NHS Blood and Transplant ( NHSBT ) have revealed three key groups of people who are most likely to have potentially life-saving plasma .
People who have recovered from Covid-19 and fit into these three categories are now being urged by officials to donate .
NHSBT is collecting convalescent plasma as part of a larger coronavirus treatment trial , which , if successful , will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The plasma of recovered patients can be given to those whose own immune response is lacking .
Who are the three key groups ?
Officials are seeking donors whose plasma has the highest levels of antibodies , as they will be more likely to keep donating for several months to come , and help more people recover .
The Associate Medical Director for blood donation at NHSBT , Professor David Roberts , said : “ These testing results mean we want to hear from those who want to give convalescent plasma and especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the over 35s , and all people who needed hospital treatment.
” The more categories a person falls into , the higher their production of antibodies is likely to be , and the more they have to donate .
A statement on the NHSBT ’ s website explains that “ plasma is a clear liquid found in your blood that is used for transfusions .
“ It makes up about half of your blood volume and carries red and white blood cells and platelets around the body .
After a virus , your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection .
“ Convalescent plasma is the antibody-rich plasma of someone who has recovered from a virus , in this case COVID-19.
” I fit into one or more of the required categories - how can I donate ?
The NHSBT has explained that the plasma donations must be taken no earlier than 28 days after a donor has fully recovered from Covid-19 .
The NHSBT also seeks those who live near or within commutable distance of one of its 23 donor centres .
“ If you have recovered from a coronavirus infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups , and live near or could travel to one of our 23 donor centres , please contact us on 0300 123 23 23 or www.nhsbt.nhs.uk , ” urged Professor Roberts .
The full list of NHSBT centres is below : Alessandro Giardini , a Consultant at Great Ormond Street Hospital from Camden , fell into each of the three categories and as predicted , had plasma with highest antibody levels donated to the health authority so far .
His antibody levels were roughly 40 times that of the typical donation seen by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 400 convalescent plasma donations so far .
Talking about his recovery from Covid-19 to The i Mr Giardini said : `` I ended up on a ventilator in the Intensive Care Unit for seven days , I was in the hospital for 15 days in total .
`` I was aware of the convalescent plasma donation programme so I was expecting the call to come in and donate .
I felt I had to give back .
“ Even though it was scary to go back into a medical environment and have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if there was any chance I could help someone else who was still ill with Covid-19 , that I needed to do it .
”

Initial findings from tests carried out on blood plasma donations taken from recovered Covid-19 patients by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) have revealed three key groups of people who are most likely to have potentially life-saving plasma.
People who have recovered from Covid-19 and fit into these three categories are now being urged by officials to donate.
NHSBT is collecting convalescent plasma as part of a larger coronavirus treatment trial, which, if successful, will be used in hospitals across the country.
The plasma of recovered patients can be given to those whose own immune response is lacking.
Who are the three key groups?
Officials are seeking donors whose plasma has the highest levels of antibodies, as they will be more likely to keep donating for several months to come, and help more people recover.
The Associate Medical Director for blood donation at NHSBT, Professor David Roberts, said: “These testing results mean we want to hear from those who want to give convalescent plasma and especially want to hear people from men, the over 35s, and all people who needed hospital treatment.”
The more categories a person falls into, the higher their production of antibodies is likely to be, and the more they have to donate.
What is convalescent plasma?
A statement on the NHSBT’s website explains that “plasma is a clear liquid found in your blood that is used for transfusions.
“It makes up about half of your blood volume and carries red and white blood cells and platelets around the body. After a virus, your plasma contains antibodies used to help fight infection.
“Convalescent plasma is the antibody-rich plasma of someone who has recovered from a virus, in this case COVID-19.”
I fit into one or more of the required categories - how can I donate?
The NHSBT has explained that the plasma donations must be taken no earlier than 28 days after a donor has fully recovered from Covid-19.
The NHSBT also seeks those who live near or within commutable distance of one of its 23 donor centres.
“If you have recovered from a coronavirus infection, fall into any one of these groups, and live near or could travel to one of our 23 donor centres, please contact us on 0300 123 23 23 or www.nhsbt.nhs.uk,” urged Professor Roberts.
The full list of NHSBT centres is below:
Birmingham
Bradford
Bristol
Cambridge
Gloucester
Lancaster
Leeds City Centre
Leicester
Liverpool
London Edgware
London Tooting
London West End
Luton
Manchester Plymouth Grove
Manchester City Centre
Newcastle
Nottingham
Oxford
Plymouth
Poole
Sheffield
Southampton
Stoke
‘I needed to do it’
Alessandro Giardini, a Consultant at Great Ormond Street Hospital from Camden, fell into each of the three categories and as predicted, had plasma with highest antibody levels donated to the health authority so far.
His antibody levels were roughly 40 times that of the typical donation seen by the and he has made more than 400 convalescent plasma donations so far.
Talking about his recovery from Covid-19 to The i Mr Giardini said: "I ended up on a ventilator in the Intensive Care Unit for seven days, I was in the hospital for 15 days in total.
"I was aware of the convalescent plasma donation programme so I was expecting the call to come in and donate. I felt I had to give back.
“Even though it was scary to go back into a medical environment and have a needle again, I really felt that if there was any chance I could help someone else who was still ill with Covid-19, that I needed to do it.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Hartlebury Castle under threat as lockdown devastates income

SUPPORTERS of Hartlebury Castle are preparing for another fight to save the historic building .
Trustees say the grade II listed castle will have to remain closed for longer than they expected , as the coronavirus lockdown continues , meaning the attraction must find a way to pay bills while generating no income .
A trust spokesman said : `` The trust relies on income from admission fees , events , room hires and the shop and cafe .
Whilst closed , that income has dropped to zero , but there are still fixed costs and bills to pay .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a worse time .
Over the spring and early summer with their bank holidays and school holidays , there were dozens of exciting events , workshops and tours planned .
All these have had to be cancelled and vital income lost .
`` Although the trust hopes to be able to open the grounds and gardens very soon , it is clear that the castle will remain closed for longer than originally expected .
`` Even when it can reopen , there may be limits on the numbers of visitors at events and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volunteers and staff safe .
`` This devastating loss of income poses a real threat to the survival of the castle . ''
Home to the Bishops of Worcester for over 1,000 years , Hartlebury Castle has already been saved once by local supporters who in 2007 came together to form a Preservation Trust in response to plans to sell the site for development .
With a £5m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund , the trust bought the castle and its grounds and , in 2018 , opened it as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ castle has attracted over 20,000 visitors a year from all over the world - until it was forced to closed its gates in March in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
Jane Finch , trustee , said : “ So many people have worked incredibly hard to save the site from development and open it as a wonderful visitor attraction .
• Fears for elderly as Kidderminster to Worcester bus suspended • Revealed : Plan for £30m energy and resource park in Kidderminster '' Hartlebury Castle has been recognised by Visit England as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ensure it doesn ’ t become a lost gem . ''
A fundraising campaign has been launched by trustees in an effort to raise £10,000 to save the castle .
Jane Finch , trustee , said : “ So many people have worked incredibly hard to save the site from development and open it as a wonderful visitor attraction .
`` Hartlebury Castle has been recognised by Visit England as a Hidden Gem .
Please help us to ensure it doesn ’ t become a lost gem . ''

Trustees say the grade II listed castle will have to remain closed for longer than they expected, as the coronavirus lockdown continues, meaning the attraction must find a way to pay bills while generating no income.
A trust spokesman said: "The trust relies on income from admission fees, events, room hires and the shop and cafe. Whilst closed, that income has dropped to zero, but there are still fixed costs and bills to pay.
A food and drink festival at Hartlebury Castle
"Coronavirus could not have hit at a worse time. Over the spring and early summer with their bank holidays and school holidays, there were dozens of exciting events, workshops and tours planned. All these have had to be cancelled and vital income lost.
"Although the trust hopes to be able to open the grounds and gardens very soon, it is clear that the castle will remain closed for longer than originally expected.
"Even when it can reopen, there may be limits on the numbers of visitors at events and other operational changes to keep visitors, volunteers and staff safe.
"This devastating loss of income poses a real threat to the survival of the castle."
Home to the Bishops of Worcester for over 1,000 years, Hartlebury Castle has already been saved once by local supporters who in 2007 came together to form a Preservation Trust in response to plans to sell the site for development.
With a £5m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the trust bought the castle and its grounds and, in 2018, opened it as a visitor attraction.
Since then, the castle has attracted over 20,000 visitors a year from all over the world - until it was forced to closed its gates in March in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
Jane Finch, trustee, said: “So many people have worked incredibly hard to save the site from development and open it as a wonderful visitor attraction.
Read more:
"Hartlebury Castle has been recognised by Visit England as a Hidden Gem. Please help us to ensure it doesn’t become a lost gem."
A fundraising campaign has been launched by trustees in an effort to raise £10,000 to save the castle.
Jane Finch, trustee, said: “So many people have worked incredibly hard to save the site from development and open it as a wonderful visitor attraction.
"Hartlebury Castle has been recognised by Visit England as a Hidden Gem. Please help us to ensure it doesn’t become a lost gem."
Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/help-hartlebury-castle-survive-coronavirus-1 to donate.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Burglars smash door at Kidderminster chip shop

BURGLARS have smashed the front door of a chip shop in Kidderminster .
Captain Cod 's Fish Bar in Comberton @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday ( May 27 ) .
The burglars forced entry into the chip shop @ @ @ @ @ in the front door of the premises .
Police say the offenders then searched the @ @ @ @ @ a tablet device from inside the property , before making their escape .
Officers are @ @ @ @ @ come forward .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said : `` Persons unknown have @ @ @ @ @ in Comberton Hill , Kidderminster by smashing a glass panel in the front door .
@ @ @ @ @ looked around for food and also stolen a tablet device before making their escape .
@ @ @ @ @ May 27 and May 28 .
`` If you have any information please call 101 @ @ @ @ @ Captain Cod 's is back up and running , with social distancing measures in place @ @ @ @ @ in response to the coronavirus outbreak .

Captain Cod's Fish Bar in Comberton Hill was broken into overnight on Wednesday (May 27).
The burglars forced entry into the chip shop by smashing a glass panel in the front door of the premises.
Police say the offenders then searched the shop for food and stole a tablet device from inside the property, before making their escape.
Officers are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "Persons unknown have forced entry into Captain Cod in Comberton Hill, Kidderminster by smashing a glass panel in the front door.
"Persons unknown have then looked around for food and also stolen a tablet device before making their escape.
"This occurred overnight between May 27 and May 28.
"If you have any information please call 101 and quote 0076s."
Captain Cod's is back up and running, with social distancing measures in place, after closing in March in response to the coronavirus outbreak.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Nine Worcestershire reopened - but Kidderminster still closed

TWO more household recycling centres in Worcestershire have reopened today - but Kidderminster 's remains closed .
Worcestershire County Council has reopened tips in Droitwich and Worcester West , bringing the number operating across the county to nine out of 11 .
Cars queued to access the Bonemill recycling centre in Stourport when it reopened with strict social distancing measures and visitor restrictions earlier this month .
Only Kidderminster and Upton-upon-Severn tips remain closed , and the council is yet to confirm when the Worcester Road site will reopen .
Worcestershire County Council was unavailable for comment , but previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would remain closed until adequate staffing was available .
Councillor Tony Miller , cabinet member with responsibility for the environment , said : “ I ’ m pleased that we ’ ve managed to open another two of our household recycling centres .
`` I ’ d like to take the opportunity to remind people to please be patient when visiting , and to check the Let ’ s Waste Less website before travelling due to restrictions that are in place , across all of our operating sites .
`` While the doors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opening , things will not be running as they were before the lockdown was brought in due to the social distancing measures that remain in place.
” Under new social distancing measures , reopened recycling centres are currently operating a one in , one out policy and staff are not assisting visitors with unloading .
For information on the restrictions in place , visit the council website .

Worcestershire County Council has reopened tips in Droitwich and Worcester West, bringing the number operating across the county to nine out of 11.
Cars queued to access the Bonemill recycling centre in Stourport when it reopened with strict social distancing measures and visitor restrictions earlier this month.
Only Kidderminster and Upton-upon-Severn tips remain closed, and the council is yet to confirm when the Worcester Road site will reopen.
Worcestershire County Council was unavailable for comment, but previously said on its website that other centres would remain closed until adequate staffing was available.
Councillor Tony Miller, cabinet member with responsibility for the environment, said: “I’m pleased that we’ve managed to open another two of our household recycling centres.
"I’d like to take the opportunity to remind people to please be patient when visiting, and to check the Let’s Waste Less website before travelling due to restrictions that are in place, across all of our operating sites.
"While the doors to two further HRC’s are opening, things will not be running as they were before the lockdown was brought in due to the social distancing measures that remain in place.”
Under new social distancing measures, reopened recycling centres are currently operating a one in, one out policy and staff are not assisting visitors with unloading.
For information on the restrictions in place, visit the council website.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--PPE donations help KEMP Hospice get ready to reopen

KEMP Hospice ’ s supply of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) has been boosted thanks to generous donations from the community .
Due to the coronavirus outbreak , the day hospice in Kidderminster is temporarily closed , meaning staff are not dealing with patients face-to-face .
But once the restrictions are lifted , PPE will be vital to keeping the charity 's staff and patients safe .
Karen Coles , care services manager at KEMP , has thanked members of the community that have donated PPE or raised money for the Wyre Forest charity from the sale of face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as ever , by the support of our community , ” said Karen .
“ As we return to providing our care service at the hospice , the use of PPE for both staff , volunteers and patients will be extraordinarily important .
“ They will help ensure we are keeping everyone as safe as possible .
“ Having these PPE items donated means we can utilise more your funds toward the care we provide , which is brilliant . ''
With stocks of PPE running low across the UK , three teachers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decided to help bolster supplies during the lockdown .
Lauren Kettle , Cella Riley and Rhiannon Bird , who teach design and technology , used the school ’ s materials to make more than 1,300 visors and masks for healthcare professionals , with 100 going to KEMP .
Headteacher Darren Reynolds said : “ We are a community school so doing something like this is a natural transition for us when we are not open as normal .
“ We have three wonderful teachers in DT and they had the idea of getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making a batch of 200 masks .
“ They then took them to some local providers who said , 'these are fantastic , can you do some more ?
’ “ Between the three of them they have made more than 1,300 masks to date and we are hoping to crack 2,000 as soon as we can .
“ It ’ s amazing and they have done this on top of providing online learning to kids from home .
“ What we have done is nothing compared to the sacrifices being made by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country who are in the frontline of our response to this terrible virus .
“ It is a small token of our gratitude that they are keeping us all safe and well.
” Amongst the other donations include Haybridge High School in Hagley which made and delivered 40 masks to the Wyre Forest hospice .
KEMP has also benefited from the sale of masks with Amanda Bonas , from Callow Hill , generating more than £300 for the hospice .
After being furloughed from her job , Amanda decided to get behind her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funds for KEMP .
“ One of my friends who is a doctor approached me and said I need masks and I will pay you to make them , ” Amanda said .
“ I then put a photo on social media of what I was doing and it just escalated from there .
“ I have made about 60 this week and have now done 100 in total .
“ We have raised about £310 so far and that ’ s all for KEMP .
I will just keep going until this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my really good friend , Sandra , passed away and I know that KEMP Hospice did a lot for her so I felt quite passionate about giving something back.
” Anita Ostrowski , from Kidderminster , has also been busy making masks to support the charity .
She said : `` Each mask takes about an hour and a half to make and I have been doing it for about a month .
“ I have made over 30 so far and have got another order for about the same amount .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends who are then donating money to the hospice .
“ I would estimate at least £200 has been raised so far .
I have got 30 more masks to do and people keep asking me .
”

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the day hospice in Kidderminster is temporarily closed, meaning staff are not dealing with patients face-to-face.
But once the restrictions are lifted, PPE will be vital to keeping the charity's staff and patients safe.
Karen Coles, care services manager at KEMP, has thanked members of the community that have donated PPE or raised money for the Wyre Forest charity from the sale of face masks.
“We are humbled, as ever, by the support of our community,” said Karen.
“As we return to providing our care service at the hospice, the use of PPE for both staff, volunteers and patients will be extraordinarily important.
“They will help ensure we are keeping everyone as safe as possible.
“Having these PPE items donated means we can utilise more your funds toward the care we provide, which is brilliant."
With stocks of PPE running low across the UK, three teachers from Lacon Childe School in Cleobury Mortimer decided to help bolster supplies during the lockdown.
Lauren Kettle, Cella Riley and Rhiannon Bird, who teach design and technology, used the school’s materials to make more than 1,300 visors and masks for healthcare professionals, with 100 going to KEMP.
Headteacher Darren Reynolds said: “We are a community school so doing something like this is a natural transition for us when we are not open as normal.
“We have three wonderful teachers in DT and they had the idea of getting the equipment that we already had and making a batch of 200 masks.
“They then took them to some local providers who said, 'these are fantastic, can you do some more?’
“Between the three of them they have made more than 1,300 masks to date and we are hoping to crack 2,000 as soon as we can.
“It’s amazing and they have done this on top of providing online learning to kids from home.
“What we have done is nothing compared to the sacrifices being made by health workers and care staff across the country who are in the frontline of our response to this terrible virus.
“It is a small token of our gratitude that they are keeping us all safe and well.”
Amongst the other donations include Haybridge High School in Hagley which made and delivered 40 masks to the Wyre Forest hospice.
KEMP has also benefited from the sale of masks with Amanda Bonas, from Callow Hill, generating more than £300 for the hospice.
After being furloughed from her job, Amanda decided to get behind her sewing machine in a bid to raise funds for KEMP.
“One of my friends who is a doctor approached me and said I need masks and I will pay you to make them,” Amanda said.
“I then put a photo on social media of what I was doing and it just escalated from there.
“I have made about 60 this week and have now done 100 in total.
“We have raised about £310 so far and that’s all for KEMP. I will just keep going until this crisis is all over.
“Recently my really good friend, Sandra, passed away and I know that KEMP Hospice did a lot for her so I felt quite passionate about giving something back.”
Anita Ostrowski, from Kidderminster, has also been busy making masks to support the charity.
She said: "Each mask takes about an hour and a half to make and I have been doing it for about a month.
“I have made over 30 so far and have got another order for about the same amount.
“I am making the masks for my friends who are then donating money to the hospice.
“I would estimate at least £200 has been raised so far. I have got 30 more masks to do and people keep asking me.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-05-28--Premier League to return on June 17 after three-month break

The Premier League will restart on June 17 - according to reports .
Executives from the 20 top-flight clubs gathered for a shareholders ’ meeting on Thursday , and it was reported that agreement was reached over the remaining rounds of games to be played .
What matches will be played first ?
Two rearranged matches – Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal – will be played first , before the first full round of games on the weekend of June 20 and 21 , reports said .
The last action in the Premier League was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic on March 13 .
The move comes as Premier League Shareholders voted unanimously to resume contact training on Wednesday , May 27 , marking another step towards restarting the Premier League season .
Squads are now able to train as a group and engage in tackling while minimising any unnecessary close contact .
The Premier League have said their priority is the health and wellbeing of all participants .
Strict medical protocols will be in place to ensure the training ground is the safest environment possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be tested for COVID-19 twice a week .
Stage Two of the Return to Training protocol has been agreed following consultation with clubs , players , managers , the PFA , LMA and the Government .

Executives from the 20 top-flight clubs gathered for a shareholders’ meeting on Thursday, and it was reported that agreement was reached over the remaining rounds of games to be played.
What matches will be played first?
Two rearranged matches – Aston Villa v Sheffield United and Manchester City v Arsenal – will be played first, before the first full round of games on the weekend of June 20 and 21, reports said.
The last action in the Premier League was on March 9, before the competition was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic on March 13.
Contact training resumes
The move comes as Premier League Shareholders voted unanimously to resume contact training on Wednesday, May 27, marking another step towards restarting the Premier League season.
Squads are now able to train as a group and engage in tackling while minimising any unnecessary close contact.
The Premier League have said their priority is the health and wellbeing of all participants.
Strict medical protocols will be in place to ensure the training ground is the safest environment possible and players and staff will continue to be tested for COVID-19 twice a week.
Stage Two of the Return to Training protocol has been agreed following consultation with clubs, players, managers, the PFA, LMA and the Government.