kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-09--Covid-19 safety reminder to Wyre Forest residents ahead of the weekend

WEST mercia police have shared advice on keeping safe this weekend to help reduce the spread of Covid-19 .
Chief Inspector Helen Kinrade said : “ In these challenging times , we can all and should all do everything we can to help reduce the rate of infection and protect each other .
`` In North Worcestershire , this rate of infection is increasing and with that in mind , I would ask all our communities to please be mindful of the rules and regulations .
“ My officers have had several discussions with people in the community and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules that have consistently come up as things they weren ’ t aware of , so we ’ d like to ensure you know the following : • Children of all ages are included in the ‘ six ’ people allowed in a group .
• Masks must be worn in enclosed shopping centres – not just in the individual shops .
• Staff and customers should wear face coverings in shops .
• Whether an event is formal or informal – the guidelines around number of attendees must still be followed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you today as we head into the weekend as a reminder that it ’ s vital we all play out part and protect ourselves , our families and those around us by following the rules .
`` Covid-19 is still a very real threat to every single one of us and I would like to thank the majority of you that are following the rules .
`` However , if you refuse to follow the law , we can , and we will , take the appropriate action .
“ Stay safe , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and remember – hands , face , space ” .

Chief Inspector Helen Kinrade said: “In these challenging times, we can all and should all do everything we can to help reduce the rate of infection and protect each other.
"In North Worcestershire, this rate of infection is increasing and with that in mind, I would ask all our communities to please be mindful of the rules and regulations.
“My officers have had several discussions with people in the community and there have been a few elements of the rules that have consistently come up as things they weren’t aware of, so we’d like to ensure you know the following:
• Children of all ages are included in the ‘six’ people allowed in a group.
• Masks must be worn in enclosed shopping centres – not just in the individual shops.
• Staff and customers should wear face coverings in shops.
• Whether an event is formal or informal – the guidelines around number of attendees must still be followed.
“I am sharing this information with you today as we head into the weekend as a reminder that it’s vital we all play out part and protect ourselves, our families and those around us by following the rules.
"Covid-19 is still a very real threat to every single one of us and I would like to thank the majority of you that are following the rules.
"However, if you refuse to follow the law, we can, and we will, take the appropriate action.
“Stay safe, stay aware, look after each other and remember – hands, face, space”.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-09--Solve a new Halloween mystery at West Midland Safari Park

A MYSTERY is a-foot at West Midland Safari Park this Halloween as visitors are invited on a brand new interactive trail to help Grenith the Witch find out who is stealing her prized pumpkins .
Beginning on October 10 , the three-week-long Spooky Spectacular event includes the new Mystery of the Pumpkin Thief , which will see children given a scratch card upon entry , leading them all around the Discovery Trail in their quest to track down all the thieving critters .
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as encountering some mysterious creatures along the way , witches and wizards from Grenith 's family are also joining the search and can be spotted around the trail , interacting with guests to help track down the thieves .
Once they have completed the scratch card , visitors will receive a magical sweet treat for their efforts .
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari Park .
Photo by Matthew Lissimore Head of marketing Vikki Green said : “ We are super @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spectacular !
`` Not only can guests see our incredible animals out on Safari enjoying the Halloween season including our new Indian rhino calf , they can also meet our favourite family of witches and wizards , The Grimleys , who have taken over the Discovery Trail . ''
To celebrate the spookiest of seasons , the safari park will be themed with over 1,100 pumpkins and 55 illuminated scarecrows , which guests will be able to see in all their glory when they are illuminated after dark during the park ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the half term break .
Brave guests will also be able to experience the Adventure Theme Park and Land of the Living Dinosaurs in the dark .
The park will be running a competition throughout the event , where visitors have the chance to win an annual family pass .
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari Park .
Photo by Matthew Lissimore Participants must simply take their picture at one of the park ’ s spooky locations and upload the post to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Guests are also encouraged to attend in Halloween fancy dress to join in with the frightful fun .
Spooky Spectacular runs from October 10 to November 1 and is included in the standard admission charge of £25 for adults , £20 for children aged three to 15 , and £22 for concessions .
Children under the age of three enter free of charge .
Admission includes a free return ticket and adventure theme park rides are charged extra .

Beginning on October 10, the three-week-long Spooky Spectacular event includes the new Mystery of the Pumpkin Thief, which will see children given a scratch card upon entry, leading them all around the Discovery Trail in their quest to track down all the thieving critters.
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari Park. Photo by Matthew Lissimore
As well as encountering some mysterious creatures along the way, witches and wizards from Grenith's family are also joining the search and can be spotted around the trail, interacting with guests to help track down the thieves.
Once they have completed the scratch card, visitors will receive a magical sweet treat for their efforts.
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari Park. Photo by Matthew Lissimore
Head of marketing Vikki Green said: “We are super excited for this year’s Spooky Spectacular!
"Not only can guests see our incredible animals out on Safari enjoying the Halloween season including our new Indian rhino calf, they can also meet our favourite family of witches and wizards, The Grimleys, who have taken over the Discovery Trail."
Read more:
To celebrate the spookiest of seasons, the safari park will be themed with over 1,100 pumpkins and 55 illuminated scarecrows, which guests will be able to see in all their glory when they are illuminated after dark during the park’s extended opening hours on weekends and throughout the half term break.
Brave guests will also be able to experience the Adventure Theme Park and Land of the Living Dinosaurs in the dark.
The park will be running a competition throughout the event, where visitors have the chance to win an annual family pass.
Visitors are invited to solve the mystery of the pumpkin thief this Halloween at West Midland Safari Park. Photo by Matthew Lissimore
Participants must simply take their picture at one of the park’s spooky locations and upload the post to Instagram or Facebook, tagging #WMSP.
Guests are also encouraged to attend in Halloween fancy dress to join in with the frightful fun.
Spooky Spectacular runs from October 10 to November 1 and is included in the standard admission charge of £25 for adults, £20 for children aged three to 15, and £22 for concessions. Children under the age of three enter free of charge. Admission includes a free return ticket and adventure theme park rides are charged extra.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-09--Aldi issue recall on popular chicken item over salmonella contamination fears

Aldi have issued a major recall on several popular chicken products following fears that the items were contaminated with salmonella .
We 've put together all the details on the items affected - and what you need to do .
Which products are being recalled ?
Aldi have recalled Roosters Southern Fried Poppin ’ Chicken and Roosters Breaded Poppin ' Chicken due to salmonella concerns .
Symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever , diarrhoea and abdominal cramps .
The chain supermarket said : “ We are recalling specific batches of these products due to the possible presence of Salmonella.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fried Poppin ’ Chicken and Roosters Breaded Poppin ' Chicken are being recalled .
• Best before : May 25 , 2022 • Best before : May 25 , 2022 The World Health Organisation ( WHO ) explains that “ Salmonellosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella .
It is usually characterized by acute onset of fever , abdominal pain , diarrhoea , nausea and sometimes vomiting.
” The onset of symptoms occurs 6–72 hours ( usually 12–36 hours ) after ingestion of Salmonella , and illness lasts between 2–7 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mild and patients will make a recovery without specific treatment in most cases .
However , in some cases , particularly in children and elderly patients , the associated dehydration can become severe and life-threatening , ” adds the WHO .
What action have Aldi taken ?
Aldi have recalled the above products and a point of sale notice has been published on Aldi ’ s website , explaining to customers why the products are being recalled and what to do if they have bought the product .
What should customers do if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
If you have bought any of the above products do not consume them .
Instead , return them to the nearest Aldi store for a full refund .
For more information , visit the Aldi website .

We've put together all the details on the items affected - and what you need to do.
Which products are being recalled?
Aldi have recalled Roosters Southern Fried Poppin’ Chicken and Roosters Breaded Poppin' Chicken due to salmonella concerns.
Symptoms caused by salmonella usually include fever, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.
The chain supermarket said: “We are recalling specific batches of these products due to the possible presence of Salmonella.”
The following batches of Roosters Southern Fried Poppin’ Chicken and Roosters Breaded Poppin' Chicken are being recalled.
Product details:
Roosters Southern Fried Poppin’ Chicken
Pack size: 210g
Batch code: L15320, L14720, L14820, L14920, L15020, L15120, L16020
Best before: May 25, 2022
Roosters Breaded Poppin' Chicken
Pack size: 210g
Batch code: L15320, L14720, L14820, L14920, L15020, L15120, L16020
Best before: May 25, 2022
What is Salmonella?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) explains that “Salmonellosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella. It is usually characterized by acute onset of fever, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea and sometimes vomiting.”
The onset of symptoms occurs 6–72 hours (usually 12–36 hours) after ingestion of Salmonella, and illness lasts between 2–7 days.
“Symptoms of salmonellosis are relatively mild and patients will make a recovery without specific treatment in most cases. However, in some cases, particularly in children and elderly patients, the associated dehydration can become severe and life-threatening,” adds the WHO.
What action have Aldi taken?
Aldi have recalled the above products and a point of sale notice has been published on Aldi’s website, explaining to customers why the products are being recalled and what to do if they have bought the product.
What should customers do if they have bought any of these products?
If you have bought any of the above products do not consume them. Instead, return them to the nearest Aldi store for a full refund.
For more information, visit the Aldi website.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-09--Which supermarket is actually the cheapest? All 7 major brands ranked on price

The cheapest supermarket to shop at during September 2020 has been revealed .
Alertr , an online price tracking website , which monitors the price increases and decreases across seven major UK supermarkets have published the latest data for last month .
The results have been determined by carefully tracking how each online retailer prices the 43 items outlined in the Government ’ s Consumer Price Index ‘ shopping basket ’ on a week-by-week basis .
What did the price tracking website find out from the supermarkets during September 2020 ?
Asda was cheapest for three out of the five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spot for the last two weeks of September .
However , even with Iceland ’ s average basket cost being £2.09 cheaper than last month , Asda still took the overall crown despite the average total being up 0.20p on its August pricing .
At the other side of the spectrum , Tesco was crowned the most expensive supermarket for the month of September , but has now been knocked down a peg or two by Ocado which comes in with an average basket spend of £151.24 , £3.31 more than last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was sold out of the same or like for like pasta in week ’ s one and two , but this didn ’ t affect the pricing as it was still the most expensive across all of the seven retailers .
Beers ( such as San Miguel Premium Lager 440ml ) saw the most consistent price fluctuations across retailers , week one it was priced at £5.50 in Asda , but by week three the price had dropped to £4.60 .
Andy Barr , co-founder of www.alertr.co.uk , said : “ It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Waitrose has unexpectedly been more affordable than some of our go-to ‘ cheaper ’ stores that one may assume they are going to find more reasonably priced items within .
`` Despite Tesco continuously coming up as one of the more expensive retailers , the data from September does seem to indicate that they ’ ve begun to drop their prices as we enter another tricky phase regarding the global pandemic .
“ Sainsburys is also another surprise as it comes in third cheapest retailer for the shopping list , somewhat surprising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its higher-end offerings .
`` At this point , it ’ s starting to look like Asda can ’ t be beaten on their low prices , and competitors will really have to think about introducing better deals or offers in order to keep customers loyal , particularly at a time when so many are looking to cut their spending in any way possible.
” Online price tracking website Alertr ( www.alertr.co.uk ) has been tracking the prices of 43 everyday items from the shopping basket on the Office for National Statistics ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
Included within the list are items such as eggs , milk and bread , as well as non-perishables like pasta , rice and cereal .
Own-brand items ( or their equivalent ) were monitored in the research to give the most unbiased comparison of goods and their prices , with the exception of brands that all seven supermarkets stocked ( e.g .
Coca-Cola ) .
The prices across seven of the largest supermarkets are analysed , with discount retailers Lidl and Aldi not included due to the inability for customers to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakdown of supermarkets average basket costs from lowest to highest over the five-week period in September 2020 were as follows : • ASDA - £130.36 – 20p more than last month • Iceland – £132.40 - £2.09 less than last month • Sainsburys - £135.24 - £4.27 less than last month • Waitrose - £139.50 – 64p more than last month • Tesco - £139.64 - £9.34 more than last month • Morrisons - £141.53 - £4.22 less than last month • Ocado - £151.24 - £3.31 more than last month What item @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
According to Alertr , Teabags ( Yorkshire Tea 750g ) at Morrisons stayed the same price every week , until week five when they went from £5 to £7 , this type of price rise is common and we will likely see it drop back to £5 in a few weeks to make consumers think they are saving money .

Alertr, an online price tracking website, which monitors the price increases and decreases across seven major UK supermarkets have published the latest data for last month.
The results have been determined by carefully tracking how each online retailer prices the 43 items outlined in the Government’s Consumer Price Index ‘shopping basket’ on a week-by-week basis.
What did the price tracking website find out from the supermarkets during September 2020?
Asda was cheapest for three out of the five weeks, with Iceland taking the top spot for the last two weeks of September.
However, even with Iceland’s average basket cost being £2.09 cheaper than last month, Asda still took the overall crown despite the average total being up 0.20p on its August pricing.
At the other side of the spectrum, Tesco was crowned the most expensive supermarket for the month of September, but has now been knocked down a peg or two by Ocado which comes in with an average basket spend of £151.24, £3.31 more than last month and £11.60 more than Tesco.
Ocado was sold out of the same or like for like pasta in week’s one and two, but this didn’t affect the pricing as it was still the most expensive across all of the seven retailers.
Beers (such as San Miguel Premium Lager 440ml) saw the most consistent price fluctuations across retailers, week one it was priced at £5.50 in Asda, but by week three the price had dropped to £4.60.
What have researchers found?
Andy Barr, co-founder of www.alertr.co.uk, said: “It is interesting to see that, once again, Waitrose has unexpectedly been more affordable than some of our go-to ‘cheaper’ stores that one may assume they are going to find more reasonably priced items within.
"Despite Tesco continuously coming up as one of the more expensive retailers, the data from September does seem to indicate that they’ve begun to drop their prices as we enter another tricky phase regarding the global pandemic.
“Sainsburys is also another surprise as it comes in third cheapest retailer for the shopping list, somewhat surprising as it’s notoriously known for its higher-end offerings.
"At this point, it’s starting to look like Asda can’t be beaten on their low prices, and competitors will really have to think about introducing better deals or offers in order to keep customers loyal, particularly at a time when so many are looking to cut their spending in any way possible.”
Who are Alertr?
Online price tracking website Alertr (www.alertr.co.uk) has been tracking the prices of 43 everyday items from the shopping basket on the Office for National Statistics’ Consumer Price Index (CPI) since 2019.
Included within the list are items such as eggs, milk and bread, as well as non-perishables like pasta, rice and cereal.
Own-brand items (or their equivalent) were monitored in the research to give the most unbiased comparison of goods and their prices, with the exception of brands that all seven supermarkets stocked (e.g. Coca-Cola).
Why aren't Aldi and Lidl included?
The prices across seven of the largest supermarkets are analysed, with discount retailers Lidl and Aldi not included due to the inability for customers to shop full ranges online.
The full breakdown of supermarkets average basket costs from lowest to highest over the five-week period in September 2020 were as follows:
ASDA - £130.36 – 20p more than last month Iceland – £132.40 - £2.09 less than last month Sainsburys - £135.24 - £4.27 less than last month Waitrose - £139.50 – 64p more than last month Tesco - £139.64 - £9.34 more than last month Morrisons - £141.53 - £4.22 less than last month Ocado - £151.24 - £3.31 more than last month
What item had the most price fluctuations in September?
According to Alertr, Teabags (Yorkshire Tea 750g) at Morrisons stayed the same price every week, until week five when they went from £5 to £7, this type of price rise is common and we will likely see it drop back to £5 in a few weeks to make consumers think they are saving money.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--£900k boost will help Severn Valley Railway survive huge drop in income

KIDDERMINSTER 's Severn Valley Railway is one of 445 heritage sites across the country set to receive a lifesaving cash boost from the government to help it survive the coronavirus pandemic .
The SVR will receive £906,000 to help it through the next six months .
The money will pay for staff salaries and fund enhanced security measures to protect the railway 's heritage assets .
These will include CCTV and fire detection systems , as well as fire and intruder alarms .
MP Nigel Huddleston being interviewed at the Severn Valley Railway It comes after one of the SVR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an arson attack during the coronavirus lockdown .
Chairman of the Severn Valley Railway , Nick Paul CBE , said : “ This funding will play an essential part in the SVR ’ s survival through the pandemic .
`` We expect to have lost around £2.5 million in revenue this year as a direct result of the lockdown and subsequent restrictions .
`` Although we ’ ve been running services again for more than two months now , we won ’ t be able to make up for such a severe drop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Railway plays a huge part in the Midlands economy and is close to the hearts of the 250,000 visitors who come to us every year .
Nigel Huddleston MP and volunteer Robert Dunn at the SVR '' Thanks to this generous government funding , we ’ ll be able to keep the railway running so it can continue to be a source of community pride in the future.
” As part of the SVR ’ s survival plan , the grant will also help improve its digital and social media communications to better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ audience .
The railway will also be recruiting a health and safety specialist to ensure it is following the additional safety demands that are necessary because of the Covid-19 pandemic .
As the recipients of the government ’ s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund were announced on Friday , October 9 , the railway was preparing to welcome the Minister for Sport , Tourism and Heritage , Nigel Huddlestone MP .
The minister met the footplate crew of one of the SVR ’ s steam locomotives and visited a unique mobile exhibition inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also spoke with some of the SVR 's 1,800 volunteers .
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said : “ As a nation it is essential that we preserve our heritage and celebrate and learn from our past .
`` This massive support package will protect our shared heritage for future generations , save jobs and help us prepare for a cultural bounce back post-Covid .
”

The SVR will receive £906,000 to help it through the next six months. The money will pay for staff salaries and fund enhanced security measures to protect the railway's heritage assets.
These will include CCTV and fire detection systems, as well as fire and intruder alarms.
MP Nigel Huddleston being interviewed at the Severn Valley Railway
It comes after one of the SVR's buildings near Highley fell victim to an arson attack during the coronavirus lockdown.
Chairman of the Severn Valley Railway, Nick Paul CBE, said: “This funding will play an essential part in the SVR’s survival through the pandemic.
"We expect to have lost around £2.5 million in revenue this year as a direct result of the lockdown and subsequent restrictions.
"Although we’ve been running services again for more than two months now, we won’t be able to make up for such a severe drop in income.
"The Severn Valley Railway plays a huge part in the Midlands economy and is close to the hearts of the 250,000 visitors who come to us every year.
Nigel Huddleston MP and volunteer Robert Dunn at the SVR
"Thanks to this generous government funding, we’ll be able to keep the railway running so it can continue to be a source of community pride in the future.”
As part of the SVR’s survival plan, the grant will also help improve its digital and social media communications to better interact with communities and engage a wider audience.
The railway will also be recruiting a health and safety specialist to ensure it is following the additional safety demands that are necessary because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As the recipients of the government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund were announced on Friday, October 9, the railway was preparing to welcome the Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage, Nigel Huddlestone MP.
MP Nigel Huddleston at the SVR
The minister met the footplate crew of one of the SVR’s steam locomotives and visited a unique mobile exhibition inside a specially adapted brake van. He also spoke with some of the SVR's 1,800 volunteers.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “As a nation it is essential that we preserve our heritage and celebrate and learn from our past.
"This massive support package will protect our shared heritage for future generations, save jobs and help us prepare for a cultural bounce back post-Covid.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Load Street Deli in Bewdley announces plans to expand

A HUSBAND and wife team from Bewdley have announced plans to launch a new dining and entertainment area at their recently-opened food deli in the town .
Steve and Kate Southern opened Load Street Deli in the summer , transforming the store and bringing one new job to the town .
The couple , who live in Bewdley with their two young children , are already seeing a growing number of customers visiting to sample the food and drink on offer – including cheeses , meats , fresh bread , teas , wine and a variety of organic , vegan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sourced locally and from across the world .
In the coming months , the new deli also plans to open an eight-seat dining and entertainment area .
Called ‘ The Alcove ’ , it will provide a private space for customers to enjoy the deli ’ s food and drink offering , with plans in place to launch a programme of gin and wine tasting evenings , private parties and business events .
Kate said : “ Steve and I wanted to add something a little different to Bewdley and we are delighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local people and those visiting the town .
“ We are working closely alongside some really amazing local and British food producers who share our vision of offering high-end produce who we found through the Guild of Fine Foods Great Taste Awards .
However , we have also looked further afield , to places like France and Italy for products such as wine , oils and pasta .
It has been a really popular approach so far .
“ At such a difficult time for the economy , it ’ s also great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bewdley .
`` We hope to add more roles in the months ahead , especially as we grow our hospitality offering , working alongside local businesses.
” Kate , who worked in property management before opening Load Street Deli , added that the business has also made its products available through its online shop - where regular digital recipe ideas using the deli ’ s ingredients are also available .
A new picnic basket service will be launched next summer .
People can visit the new deli at 70 Load Street or call @ @ @

Steve and Kate Southern opened Load Street Deli in the summer, transforming the store and bringing one new job to the town.
The couple, who live in Bewdley with their two young children, are already seeing a growing number of customers visiting to sample the food and drink on offer – including cheeses, meats, fresh bread, teas, wine and a variety of organic, vegan and gluten free produce, which is sourced locally and from across the world.
In the coming months, the new deli also plans to open an eight-seat dining and entertainment area.
Called ‘The Alcove’, it will provide a private space for customers to enjoy the deli’s food and drink offering, with plans in place to launch a programme of gin and wine tasting evenings, private parties and business events.
Kate said: “Steve and I wanted to add something a little different to Bewdley and we are delighted with the positive comments so far from local people and those visiting the town.
“We are working closely alongside some really amazing local and British food producers who share our vision of offering high-end produce who we found through the Guild of Fine Foods Great Taste Awards. However, we have also looked further afield, to places like France and Italy for products such as wine, oils and pasta. It has been a really popular approach so far.
“At such a difficult time for the economy, it’s also great to be bringing new job opportunities to Bewdley.
"We hope to add more roles in the months ahead, especially as we grow our hospitality offering, working alongside local businesses.”
Kate, who worked in property management before opening Load Street Deli, added that the business has also made its products available through its online shop - where regular digital recipe ideas using the deli’s ingredients are also available.
A new picnic basket service will be launched next summer.
People can visit the new deli at 70 Load Street or call 01299 488659.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Most (and least) trolled Premier League footballers on Twitter revealed

New research has revealed the most and least trolled Premier League footballers on Twitter .
While this year has been a peculiar one for sport , the uncertainty regarding future of in-house support for football is still up in the air .
Inevitably , with little to no outlet for fans to celebrate their love and support , Twitter has become the primary catalyst for people to share their opinions on some of the top footballers .
This led to compare.bet teaming up with online analytics tool SEMRush to uncover which of the highest paid Premier League players is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out who is the most talked about .
SEMRush collated data from August 6 and September 15 , 2020 to reveal which footballer has the worst Twitter presence .
Which footballer receives the most hate on Twitter ?
The answer , and perhaps the most shocking , is Marcus Rashford .
Compare.bet said : `` It is no secret that Rashford has been very munificent in giving money to charity and helping out the community , and yet , on Twitter , Rashford has been receiving the most negativity , with 28.5 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in nature .
`` Coming in second place for the negative tweets is Raheem Sterling with 24.7 per cent tweets of anger .
`` Also , a notable mention from the list is Dele Ali , receiving 20.9 per cent negative comments .
`` This may sound strange to many , however , judging by Twitter consensus , fans are disappointed and frustrated by his ‘ lack of progress ’ , after displaying so much great potential and skill early on in his career . ''
Which footballer has the most positive reception @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pogba had the highest general positive sentiment , with 45.6 per cent of Tweets praising him .
Compare.bet added : `` This may be surprising to a lot of people as Pogba is often labelled as a ‘ lazy ’ individual .
`` On the contrary , many fans ’ opinions infer that he is a ‘ world-class ’ player and that he has a lot of positive traits which outweigh the supposed ‘ laziness ’ and ‘ arrogance ’ .
`` As well as being the most positively thought of on social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most out of all the footballers analysed with over 17,432 Tweets mentioning his name from August 6 to September 15 , 2020 .
`` Coming in at second place for the positive reception on Twitter is David De Gea , with 44.9 per cent of Tweets being positive in nature .
Harry Kane , with 39.2 % pragmatic tweets , comes in at third place . ''
Which footballer has the least amount of attention online ?
At the moment , Sergio Aguero is receiving the least amount of attention online , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Researchers say this is likely due to his knee injury back in June 2020 .
Although , with him due to return soon , there is no doubt the spotlight will be on him again to score those all-important goals for Manchester City in the title race .
`` It may come as a surprise , but generally , many have an impartiality of needing to voice their opinion on Roberto Firmino , only getting mentioned 3,211 times .
`` As such a prominent player for Liverpool , it is interesting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fence about him on Twitter .
`` It is possible that fans do not consider him as noteworthy as his Liverpool teammates Mohamed Salah ( 6,303 mentions ) and Sadio Mane ( 14,776 mentions ) , '' the research added .
FULL LIST : See the full list below How was the research carried out ?
Compare.bet teamed up with online analytics tool SEMrush to collect Twitter sentiment analysis data on 20 footballers and the number of tweets mentioning then , between the dates of August 6 and September 15 , 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see what people ’ s general opinions were and seeing how/if this differed from the data that was collected .

While this year has been a peculiar one for sport, the uncertainty regarding future of in-house support for football is still up in the air.
Inevitably, with little to no outlet for fans to celebrate their love and support, Twitter has become the primary catalyst for people to share their opinions on some of the top footballers.
This led to compare.bet teaming up with online analytics tool SEMRush to uncover which of the highest paid Premier League players is the most trolled on Twitter, and find out who is the most talked about.
SEMRush collated data from August 6 and September 15, 2020 to reveal which footballer has the worst Twitter presence.
Which footballer receives the most hate on Twitter?
The answer, and perhaps the most shocking, is Marcus Rashford.
Compare.bet said: "It is no secret that Rashford has been very munificent in giving money to charity and helping out the community, and yet, on Twitter, Rashford has been receiving the most negativity, with 28.5 per cent of his Twitter mentions being negative in nature.
"Coming in second place for the negative tweets is Raheem Sterling with 24.7 per cent tweets of anger.
"Also, a notable mention from the list is Dele Ali, receiving 20.9 per cent negative comments.
"This may sound strange to many, however, judging by Twitter consensus, fans are disappointed and frustrated by his ‘lack of progress’, after displaying so much great potential and skill early on in his career."
Which footballer has the most positive reception on Twitter?
The research revealed Paul Pogba had the highest general positive sentiment, with 45.6 per cent of Tweets praising him.
Compare.bet added: "This may be surprising to a lot of people as Pogba is often labelled as a ‘lazy’ individual.
"On the contrary, many fans’ opinions infer that he is a ‘world-class’ player and that he has a lot of positive traits which outweigh the supposed ‘laziness’ and ‘arrogance’.
"As well as being the most positively thought of on social media, Pogba has been Tweeted about the most out of all the footballers analysed with over 17,432 Tweets mentioning his name from August 6 to September 15, 2020.
"Coming in at second place for the positive reception on Twitter is David De Gea, with 44.9 per cent of Tweets being positive in nature. Harry Kane, with 39.2% pragmatic tweets, comes in at third place."
Which footballer has the least amount of attention online?
At the moment, Sergio Aguero is receiving the least amount of attention online, with only 2,942 people Tweeting about him.
Researchers say this is likely due to his knee injury back in June 2020. Although, with him due to return soon, there is no doubt the spotlight will be on him again to score those all-important goals for Manchester City in the title race.
"It may come as a surprise, but generally, many have an impartiality of needing to voice their opinion on Roberto Firmino, only getting mentioned 3,211 times.
"As such a prominent player for Liverpool, it is interesting to see how many people are on the fence about him on Twitter.
"It is possible that fans do not consider him as noteworthy as his Liverpool teammates Mohamed Salah (6,303 mentions) and Sadio Mane (14,776 mentions)," the research added.
FULL LIST: See the full list below
How was the research carried out?
Compare.bet teamed up with online analytics tool SEMrush to collect Twitter sentiment analysis data on 20 footballers and the number of tweets mentioning then, between the dates of August 6 and September 15, 2020. Compare.bet then did some digging on Twitter to see what people’s general opinions were and seeing how/if this differed from the data that was collected.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Sharp rise in disabled hate crimes - but drop in charges

DISABILITY hate crimes – many of them violent - have shot up in the area , but the number of people charged has gone down .
West Midlands Police had 171 reports of hate crimes against disabled people in 2019/20 – a rise of nearly 30 per cent and nearly one every two days .
Of those a massive 159 – more than 9 out of every 10 – involved violence .
But out of all those reports just three people were charged – one less than the year before .
The number of reports of violence is significantly higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % , which indicates that more of the reported hate crimes now involve violence .
The one piece of good news is that online hate crime fell dramatically , by 57 % , although the numbers are small , down from 21 to 9 .
The figures are revealed in research carried out by the Leonard Cheshire Foundation and United Response charity for the disabled .
Chief Superintendent Mat Shaer , West Midlands Police 's hate crime lead , said : `` We have many diverse and multi-cultural communities across the West Midlands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completely unacceptable .
`` It was an historically under-reported crime and it ’ s encouraging more victims are coming forward and telling us .
`` We ’ ve tried to make it easier for communities to reach us through with third party reporting centres , getting relevant guidance and information translated into different languages and our hate crime app .
“ Unfortunately in the majority of reports in the last financial year , either no suspect has been identified or the victim has not wished to pursue a prosecution or there has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That said each case is investigated to its fullest potential and , although the number resulting in a charge is low , some have resulted in community resolutions . ''
Figures provided by police forces show reports of disability hate crime are up 12 % across 36 regions in England and Wales in 2019/20 , but only 1.6 % of cases resulted in police charging the perpetrators .
More than 7,300 disability hate crimes were reported across England and Wales yet only one in 62 cases actually received a charge from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were released to coincide with the start of National Hate Crime Awareness Week , on Saturday , October 10 .
“ Worryingly , while nearly 21 crimes were reported to the police every day in England and Wales during 2019/20 , an average of 10 crimes per day involved an act of violence against a disabled person , including assault and harassment .
“ As this abhorrent crime continues to rise year on year , it ’ s time for the authorities , Government and online platforms to start taking this damaging behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services is also urgently needed and victims need to have better access to support across the entire reporting , investigative and judicial process .
” Victims of disability hate crime should report it to their friends or family or call the police if it is safe to do so .
They can also report it online : https : //www.report-it.org.uk/your_police_force .

West Midlands Police had 171 reports of hate crimes against disabled people in 2019/20 – a rise of nearly 30 per cent and nearly one every two days.
Of those a massive 159 – more than 9 out of every 10 – involved violence.
But out of all those reports just three people were charged – one less than the year before.
The number of reports of violence is significantly higher than the year before, up 31%, which indicates that more of the reported hate crimes now involve violence.
The one piece of good news is that online hate crime fell dramatically, by 57%, although the numbers are small, down from 21 to 9.
The figures are revealed in research carried out by the Leonard Cheshire Foundation and United Response charity for the disabled.
Chief Superintendent Mat Shaer, West Midlands Police's hate crime lead, said: "We have many diverse and multi-cultural communities across the West Midlands and any type of hate crime is completely unacceptable.
"It was an historically under-reported crime and it’s encouraging more victims are coming forward and telling us.
"We’ve tried to make it easier for communities to reach us through with third party reporting centres, getting relevant guidance and information translated into different languages and our hate crime app.
“Unfortunately in the majority of reports in the last financial year, either no suspect has been identified or the victim has not wished to pursue a prosecution or there has not been enough evidence for a charge.
“That said each case is investigated to its fullest potential and, although the number resulting in a charge is low, some have resulted in community resolutions."
Figures provided by police forces show reports of disability hate crime are up 12% across 36 regions in England and Wales in 2019/20, but only 1.6% of cases resulted in police charging the perpetrators.
More than 7,300 disability hate crimes were reported across England and Wales yet only one in 62 cases actually received a charge from the police, say the charities.
Findings were released to coincide with the start of National Hate Crime Awareness Week, on Saturday, October 10.
“Worryingly, while nearly 21 crimes were reported to the police every day in England and Wales during 2019/20, an average of 10 crimes per day involved an act of violence against a disabled person, including assault and harassment.
“As this abhorrent crime continues to rise year on year, it’s time for the authorities, Government and online platforms to start taking this damaging behaviour more seriously. Increased funding for advocacy services is also urgently needed and victims need to have better access to support across the entire reporting, investigative and judicial process. ”
Victims of disability hate crime should report it to their friends or family or call the police if it is safe to do so. They can also report it online: https://www.report-it.org.uk/your_police_force.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Death notices from this week's Kidderminster Shuttle

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

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Worcester homes that are cheaper than a London parking space

IF you think the parking fees are bad in Worcester , you should try living in London .
It is actually cheaper to get a mortgage here than buy some of the parking spaces in the capital .
One parking spot in London is listed on Rightmove for a jaw-dropping £190,000- and this isn ’ t even the most expensive parking space on the site .
Thankfully things are n't as quite as ludicrous round here , so we wanted to showcase the sort of properties you can snap up around Worcester for less than it costs to stow away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hundred miles away .
Here are five family homes in Worcester which are cheaper than this £190,000 London parking space : The garden on the property ( Photo : Rightmove ) This former coach house has two bedrooms and also benefits from off road parking- and it ’ s £5000 cheaper than the Kensington parking spot .
A focal point of the house is the “ larger than average ” rear garden .
Want to learn more ?
View the listing on Rightmove .
This property has three bedrooms and even benefits from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out for a separate parking space , this property benefits from driveway parking .
Want to learn more ?
Visit Rightmove .
This property benefits from a large master bedroom and a modern dining kitchen .
It also has a private enclosed garden and off road parking .
Learn more about this property on Rightmove .
This end terraced property has three bedrooms and a large rear garden for the owners to enjoy .
A focal point of the property is the kitchen and dining area which has plenty of storage and work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
( Photo : Rightmove ) This property is £15,000 less than the Kensington parking space and it ’ s in a sought after area of Worcester .
It has two bedrooms and a slabbed courtyard to the rear .
Learn more about this property on Rightmove .

It is actually cheaper to get a mortgage here than buy some of the parking spaces in the capital.
One parking spot in London is listed on Rightmove for a jaw-dropping £190,000- and this isn’t even the most expensive parking space on the site.
£190,000 parking space (Photo: Rightmove)
Thankfully things aren't as quite as ludicrous round here, so we wanted to showcase the sort of properties you can snap up around Worcester for less than it costs to stow away your family runaround just a couple of hundred miles away.
Here are five family homes in Worcester which are cheaper than this £190,000 London parking space:
Great Oaty Gardens, Lyppard Hanford
£185,000
The garden on the property (Photo: Rightmove)
This former coach house has two bedrooms and also benefits from off road parking- and it’s £5000 cheaper than the Kensington parking spot.
A focal point of the house is the “larger than average” rear garden.
Want to learn more? View the listing on Rightmove.
Windermere Drive
£185,000
A conservatory in the property (Photo: Rightmove)
This property has three bedrooms and even benefits from its own conservatory.
Instead of shelling out for a separate parking space, this property benefits from driveway parking.
Want to learn more? Visit Rightmove.
St Marks Close
£185,000
A large bedroom in the property (Photo: Rightmove)
Fancy a two bedroom semi-detached house?
This property benefits from a large master bedroom and a modern dining kitchen.
It also has a private enclosed garden and off road parking.
Learn more about this property on Rightmove.
Cranham Drive
£180,000
The property's kitchen (Photo: Rightmove)
This end terraced property has three bedrooms and a large rear garden for the owners to enjoy.
A focal point of the property is the kitchen and dining area which has plenty of storage and work surfaces.
View the listing on Rightmove.
Bicton Avenue
£175,000
Would you ever live here? (Photo: Rightmove)
This property is £15,000 less than the Kensington parking space and it’s in a sought after area of Worcester.
It has two bedrooms and a slabbed courtyard to the rear.
Learn more about this property on Rightmove.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-10--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles - what's available from Sunday, October 11?

The latest items hitting the shelves in the middle of Aldi and Lidl on Sunday , October 11 , 2020 have been revealed by the retailers .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket .
This week , Aldi are holding a home event as part of their Special Buys set of deals .
A Grey Storage Trunk Set of 2 for £39.99 each .
Aldi 's website states : `` With gorgeous copper hardware in a stunning grey colour , you get a small and large trunk that can also be easily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use .
`` Ideal for storing blankets and trinkets alike , this set is the finishing touch your room is crying out for . ''
Elsewhere , a Kirkton House Pink Faux Orchid will go on sale for £12.99 each .
Aldi said : `` This Kirkton House Pink Faux Orchid is the perfect way to bring the outside in , without having to worry about watering .
Presented in a modern silver ceramic pot , no one will ever know it 's not real so your plant-keeping skills will stay a secret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variety of floor cushions , including this one pictured in a black and white diamond style .
The flood cushion will go on sale for £29.99 each .
In the middle of Lidl this week , the supermarket chain have a range of products , including bedroom essentials and sportswear .
Plus , a Crivit Men ’ s Sports Jacket for £9.99 each will be among the sports items on sale .
Finally , a Silvercrest Oil-Filled Radiator will go on sale for £39.99 each .

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are holding a home event as part of their Special Buys set of deals.
These include:
A Grey Storage Trunk Set of 2 for £39.99 each.
Aldi's website states: "With gorgeous copper hardware in a stunning grey colour, you get a small and large trunk that can also be easily stored within each other when not in use.
"Ideal for storing blankets and trinkets alike, this set is the finishing touch your room is crying out for."
Elsewhere, a Kirkton House Pink Faux Orchid will go on sale for £12.99 each.
Aldi said: "This Kirkton House Pink Faux Orchid is the perfect way to bring the outside in, without having to worry about watering. Presented in a modern silver ceramic pot, no one will ever know it's not real so your plant-keeping skills will stay a secret."
Aldi will also sell a variety of floor cushions, including this one pictured in a black and white diamond style.
The flood cushion will go on sale for £29.99 each.
For more details, visit: Aldi.co.uk.
Lidl
In the middle of Lidl this week, the supermarket chain have a range of products, including bedroom essentials and sportswear.
These include:
A Meradiso Sanitized Body Pillow for £9.99 each.
Plus, a Crivit Men’s Sports Jacket for £9.99 each will be among the sports items on sale.
Finally, a Silvercrest Oil-Filled Radiator will go on sale for £39.99 each.
For more details, visit Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Arrest in Kidderminster after serious assault involving weapon

AN arrest has been made in Kidderminster following a serious assault involving a weapon .
Police sighted a car linked @ @ @ @ @ before the driver tried to evade officers .
The driver was located nearby when the @ @ @ @ @ in Kidderminster .
One person is now under arrest for GBH wounding and ABH assault @ @ @ @ @ .
Vehicle linked to serious # Assault involving a # Weapon sighted near # Wolverly @ @ @ @ @ Police but he was located nearby when the vehicle was found parked up in # @ @ @ @ @ Arrest for GBH wounding and ABH assault on behalf of another force .
# NoEscape @ @ @ @ @ - West Mercia Police ( @ LpptSWestMercia ) October 11 , 2020

Police sighted a car linked to the assault near Wolverley before the driver tried to evade officers.
The driver was located nearby when the vehicle was found parked up in Kidderminster.
One person is now under arrest for GBH wounding and ABH assault on behalf of another force.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Kidderminster cricket coach needs surgery to avoid paralysis

A 23-YEAR-old cricket coach from Kidderminster is trying to raise £20,000 for life-saving surgery to avoid him being paralysed from the waist down .
Jack Beadsworth was just 18 when he collapsed while bowling his first over during his first cricket game of the season with Kidderminster 's 1st Xl .
The youngster 's mobility rapidly deteriorated , leaving him unable to play cricket or football , but it was n't until months later than he found out it was n't a sports injury after all - he was diagnosed with a spinal AVM , an abnormal tangle of blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underwent a nine-hour operation on his spine to remove the AVM in September 2016 , and described having a `` new lease of life '' as he began to regain some of his mobility .
But more bad news came in March 2019 , when he was diagnosed with a second AVM .
Jack said : `` Prior to my spinal surgery in September 2016 , I could barely walk or stand at all .
`` I remember walking round the corner from my house , no more than 100 metres , before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a lift - a benchmark I still hold my current mobility problems against today .
`` When I had my first AVM removed in a nine-hour invasive operation , I felt that I had a new lease of life .
I started to recover and became stronger at walking and can turn it into a light jog for a short burst .
`` The second AVM that I was diagnosed with in March 2019 has ended that recovery .
`` The recurrence of the AVM has been particularly stressful on my family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re-diagnosed and it was incredibly stressful for me knowing that I had to relive the condition and medical procedures all over again . ''
In October 2019 , surgeons told Jack his AVM was too deep in the spinal cord to operate without causing massive nerve damage .
He was told it would continue to damage his nerves , grow and eventually bleed , causing a stroke that would completely paralyse the lower half of his body .
Refusing to give up hope , Jack 's family began researching alternative treatments and discovered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CyberKnife , typically used to treat cancer , which uses radioactive lasers to shrink and kill the AVM .
Surgeons in London are confident they can permanently remove Jack 's AVM and prevent him from ever becoming paralysed - but the treatment will cost him £20,000 .
Jack said : `` What is for certain is that without surgery , I will eventually be paralysed from the waist down .
`` When I was told this news , I was in a daze for days and my family distraught .
`` I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that I will one day be in a wheelchair with the loss of control over all bodily functions in my lower half .
`` Whilst my latest tests show that the AVM is stable for now , the stroke that paralyses me is coming .
`` The longer I go without this surgery , the greater the risk . ''
Due to the deteriorating disability , Jack now has trouble walking and has regular tingling and sensory deficits in his leg .
He now needs to raise the £20,000 by the start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Go Fund Me page , which has already received £18,000 in donations in just over a week .
Jack said : `` I am completely amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity shown .
To have raised over £17,000 from over 400 donors in just nine days is incredible and a fantastic communal effort from everyone who donated and shared the page .
`` I ca n't wait to have this surgery and get rid of this terrible condition for good . ''
His mum Sarah added : `` There are no words to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Young men and women he went to St John 's Primary and Baxter College with , university friends , former teachers , cricketers , footballers , family , parents of friends , friends of friends who do n't even know Jack have donated - every pound given with kindness and love .
`` We are honoured that he is so well-liked and will repay everyone , hopefully , by always being generous of heart . ''
To donate , go to gofundme.com/f/spine-surgery-to-save-me-from-paralysis .

Jack Beadsworth was just 18 when he collapsed while bowling his first over during his first cricket game of the season with Kidderminster's 1st Xl.
The youngster's mobility rapidly deteriorated, leaving him unable to play cricket or football, but it wasn't until months later than he found out it wasn't a sports injury after all - he was diagnosed with a spinal AVM, an abnormal tangle of blood vessels on the spinal cord.
Jack underwent a nine-hour operation on his spine to remove the AVM in September 2016, and described having a "new lease of life" as he began to regain some of his mobility.
But more bad news came in March 2019, when he was diagnosed with a second AVM.
Jack said: "Prior to my spinal surgery in September 2016, I could barely walk or stand at all.
"I remember walking round the corner from my house, no more than 100 metres, before having to stop and call my parents for a lift - a benchmark I still hold my current mobility problems against today.
"When I had my first AVM removed in a nine-hour invasive operation, I felt that I had a new lease of life. I started to recover and became stronger at walking and can turn it into a light jog for a short burst.
"The second AVM that I was diagnosed with in March 2019 has ended that recovery.
"The recurrence of the AVM has been particularly stressful on my family. My mum cried when I was re-diagnosed and it was incredibly stressful for me knowing that I had to relive the condition and medical procedures all over again."
In October 2019, surgeons told Jack his AVM was too deep in the spinal cord to operate without causing massive nerve damage.
He was told it would continue to damage his nerves, grow and eventually bleed, causing a stroke that would completely paralyse the lower half of his body.
Refusing to give up hope, Jack's family began researching alternative treatments and discovered a highly-advanced type of non-invasive surgery called CyberKnife, typically used to treat cancer, which uses radioactive lasers to shrink and kill the AVM.
Surgeons in London are confident they can permanently remove Jack's AVM and prevent him from ever becoming paralysed - but the treatment will cost him £20,000.
Jack said: "What is for certain is that without surgery, I will eventually be paralysed from the waist down.
"When I was told this news, I was in a daze for days and my family distraught.
"I have never fully come to terms with the fact that I will one day be in a wheelchair with the loss of control over all bodily functions in my lower half.
"Whilst my latest tests show that the AVM is stable for now, the stroke that paralyses me is coming.
"The longer I go without this surgery, the greater the risk."
Due to the deteriorating disability, Jack now has trouble walking and has regular tingling and sensory deficits in his leg.
He now needs to raise the £20,000 by the start of November and has set up a Go Fund Me page, which has already received £18,000 in donations in just over a week.
Jack said: "I am completely amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity shown. To have raised over £17,000 from over 400 donors in just nine days is incredible and a fantastic communal effort from everyone who donated and shared the page.
"I can't wait to have this surgery and get rid of this terrible condition for good."
His mum Sarah added: "There are no words to adequately describe how we feel.
"Young men and women he went to St John's Primary and Baxter College with, university friends, former teachers, cricketers, footballers, family, parents of friends, friends of friends who don't even know Jack have donated - every pound given with kindness and love.
"We are honoured that he is so well-liked and will repay everyone, hopefully, by always being generous of heart."
To donate, go to gofundme.com/f/spine-surgery-to-save-me-from-paralysis.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Funding boost a lifeline for historic Great Witley Church

THE government 's Culture Recovery Fund has thrown a lifeline to a historic church near Stourport to help it survive the coronavirus pandemic .
Great Witley Church usually attracts visitors from all over the world as it is the only church in the UK with such a well-preserved baroque interior .
The church typically relies on concerts and donations from visitors to keep it maintained , but due to Covid restrictions , it had to cancel all of its concerts and is now only able to open for four hours a day .
As part of the government 's Culture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to receive £37,500 to ensure its impressive interior can continue to be enjoyed by future generations .
The new steps installed at Great Witley Church to make it safe for visitors It is one of 445 heritage organisations across the country , alongside the Severn Valley Railway , to receive a life-saving share of £1.57 billion .
Churchwarden Angela Snow said : `` We were thrilled to hear that our funding application has been successful .
`` The grant will cover the costs of maintaining the church until the end of March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that when it is able to fully open again there will be a full concert programme and new digital displays telling the history of the church and the once grand , but now ruined , Witley Court which adjoins it .
`` It is absolutely vital that this precious heritage site is maintained for future generations and we are looking forward to the enhanced education facilities that we will be able to provide for visitors.
” The funding will help keep the church heated and aired to prevent any deterioration to the priceless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is safe for visitors , new steps have also been built at the rear of the church and some of the pews have been moved so that a one-way system can be operated .
The fund will also enable the church to employ a recovery manager who will help to recruit new stewards .
Angela added : “ Many of our stewards are over 70 and therefore classed as vulnerable .
We are also required to have four stewards on duty with the new regulations so it ’ ll make a real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help us .
”

Great Witley Church usually attracts visitors from all over the world as it is the only church in the UK with such a well-preserved baroque interior.
The church typically relies on concerts and donations from visitors to keep it maintained, but due to Covid restrictions, it had to cancel all of its concerts and is now only able to open for four hours a day.
As part of the government's Culture Recovery Fund, Great Witley Church is set to receive £37,500 to ensure its impressive interior can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.
The new steps installed at Great Witley Church to make it safe for visitors
It is one of 445 heritage organisations across the country, alongside the Severn Valley Railway, to receive a life-saving share of £1.57 billion.
Churchwarden Angela Snow said: "We were thrilled to hear that our funding application has been successful.
"The grant will cover the costs of maintaining the church until the end of March 2021 and will provide funds to ensure that when it is able to fully open again there will be a full concert programme and new digital displays telling the history of the church and the once grand, but now ruined, Witley Court which adjoins it.
"It is absolutely vital that this precious heritage site is maintained for future generations and we are looking forward to the enhanced education facilities that we will be able to provide for visitors.”
The funding will help keep the church heated and aired to prevent any deterioration to the priceless painted windows and ceiling.
To ensure it is safe for visitors, new steps have also been built at the rear of the church and some of the pews have been moved so that a one-way system can be operated.
The fund will also enable the church to employ a recovery manager who will help to recruit new stewards.
Angela added: “Many of our stewards are over 70 and therefore classed as vulnerable. We are also required to have four stewards on duty with the new regulations so it’ll make a real difference to have some new volunteers to help us.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Coronavirus: These early signs could mean you have Covid-19

Latest research has revealed a number of 'surprising ' symptoms that could indicate early signs of Covid-19 .
We 've put together what you need to know .
What are the main coronavirus symptons ?
In the UK , officials have listed the main coronavirus symptoms as : • Loss of sense of taste or smell According to the NHS most people with coronavirus have at least one of these symptoms .
But there are many others that people suffer regularly .
New details from researchers at King ’ s College in London have warned of several 'surprising ' symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
Using data from the Covid Symptom Study app , the researchers have created a list of the most common symptoms reported by patients in the first seven days after onset .
The researchers said : “ We have been busy researching what the early symptoms of Covid-19 really are , as this information is essential to helping us all stop the spread of the virus in the coming months .
“ If we can spot cases based on symptoms sooner , people will be able to start self isolating in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accidental spread of the virus.
” What are the 'surprising ' early warning signs of Covid-19 ?
The two of the most surprising early warning signs revealed in the study are a headache and fatigue , which the researchers describe as the 'dark horses of Covid symptoms ' .
“ Our data shows that the most commonly experienced early symptoms are actually headache ( 82 per cent ) and fatigue ( 72 per cent ) - and this is the case for all age groups .
“ Only 9nine per cent of Covid-positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t experience headache or fatigue ” , the researchers added .
However despite the high levels , only one per cent of people reporting fatigue and/or headache on the app ended up testing positive for Covid .
The researchers added : “ While headache and fatigue are commonly found in people who have Covid ( alongside other symptoms ) , having either or both of those symptoms alone is unlikely to be indicative of Covid.
” Unsurprisingly , a fever , persistent cough and loss of smell were found to be strong early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ 40 per cent of all age groups reported having a fever in the first seven days , and this or loss of smell and persistent cough are still the key symptoms to be aware of - so people with the classic three symptoms of persistent cough , fever or loss of smell should certainly seek a Covid test.
” What did the reasearch find for those over the age of 65 ?
Meanwhile , those over the age of 65 were also found to report being confused , disorientated and having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stages of infection .
The researchers continue to monitor the app , and will release new findings soon .
They added : “ Please bear in mind that we are providing percentages and averages and in medicine there may be rare exceptions .
”

We've put together what you need to know.
What are the main coronavirus symptons?
In the UK, officials have listed the main coronavirus symptoms as:
Coughing
Fever
Loss of sense of taste or smell
According to the NHS most people with coronavirus have at least one of these symptoms.
But there are many others that people suffer regularly.
What have researchers found?
New details from researchers at King’s College in London have warned of several 'surprising' symptoms that could be early warning signs for the virus.
Using data from the Covid Symptom Study app, the researchers have created a list of the most common symptoms reported by patients in the first seven days after onset.
The researchers said: “We have been busy researching what the early symptoms of Covid-19 really are, as this information is essential to helping us all stop the spread of the virus in the coming months.
“If we can spot cases based on symptoms sooner, people will be able to start self isolating in those first few days and stop the accidental spread of the virus.”
What are the 'surprising' early warning signs of Covid-19?
The two of the most surprising early warning signs revealed in the study are a headache and fatigue, which the researchers describe as the 'dark horses of Covid symptoms'.
“Our data shows that the most commonly experienced early symptoms are actually headache (82 per cent) and fatigue (72 per cent) - and this is the case for all age groups.
“Only 9nine per cent of Covid-positive adults aged 18 - 65 didn’t experience headache or fatigue”, the researchers added.
However despite the high levels, only one per cent of people reporting fatigue and/or headache on the app ended up testing positive for Covid.
The researchers added: “While headache and fatigue are commonly found in people who have Covid (alongside other symptoms), having either or both of those symptoms alone is unlikely to be indicative of Covid.”
Unsurprisingly, a fever, persistent cough and loss of smell were found to be strong early indicators of Covid-19.
The researchers continued: “40 per cent of all age groups reported having a fever in the first seven days, and this or loss of smell and persistent cough are still the key symptoms to be aware of - so people with the classic three symptoms of persistent cough, fever or loss of smell should certainly seek a Covid test.”
What did the reasearch find for those over the age of 65?
Meanwhile, those over the age of 65 were also found to report being confused, disorientated and having severe shortness of breath in the early stages of infection.
The researchers continue to monitor the app, and will release new findings soon.
They added: “Please bear in mind that we are providing percentages and averages and in medicine there may be rare exceptions.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Court freezes Kidderminster bank accounts

A Kidderminster business has had three bank accounts totalling more than £95,000 frozen under the Proceeds of Crime Act .
Magistrates at Kidderminster granted applications to freeze the accounts of Waste Services , James Road .
Two were at Barclays and one was at TSB banks .
The accounts were frozen until October 29 and the cases adjourned until then .
Other cases at the court included : A STOURPORT man has been put under curfew for after admitting assault and theft charges .
Dirk Johannes Howell , aged 38 , of Gables Yard , Broach Road , admitted assaulting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meat from BP M & S at Worcester Road , Droitwich , and stealing two air freshners from Savers .
He was placed on a community order , with an electronic tag curfew for two months from 7pm to 7am .
He was ordered to pay £289 in compensation and victim surcharges .
A Bewdley teenager has been ordered to pay £480 after admitting assaulting a police officer and threatening behaviour .
Chloe Elaine Doughty , aged 19 , of Arley Lane Houses , Shatterford , pleaded guilty to assaulting a police woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid voluntary work , and ordered to pay £200 compensation , and ordered to pay £280 compensation , £95 victim surcharge and £195 prosecution costs .

Magistrates at Kidderminster granted applications to freeze the accounts of Waste Services, James Road. Two were at Barclays and one was at TSB banks.
The accounts were frozen until October 29 and the cases adjourned until then.
Other cases at the court included:
A STOURPORT man has been put under curfew for after admitting assault and theft charges.
Dirk Johannes Howell, aged 38, of Gables Yard, Broach Road, admitted assaulting Arthur Neil, stealing £140 worth of meat from BP M&S at Worcester Road, Droitwich, and stealing two air freshners from Savers.
He was placed on a community order, with an electronic tag curfew for two months from 7pm to 7am.
He was ordered to pay £289 in compensation and victim surcharges.
A Bewdley teenager has been ordered to pay £480 after admitting assaulting a police officer and threatening behaviour.
Chloe Elaine Doughty, aged 19, of Arley Lane Houses, Shatterford, pleaded guilty to assaulting a police woman at Bewdley in August.
She was ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid voluntary work, and ordered to pay £200 compensation, and ordered to pay £280 compensation, £95 victim surcharge and £195 prosecution costs.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--West Midlands smokers less likely to be in work

IS smoking making you poorer , as well as putting you at greater health risk ?
That ’ s the question being posed by new research which shows that smokers in the region are more likely to be unemployed and worse off financially than their non-smoking neighbours .
And even if you are a smoker who is in work , you are likely to be nearly £1,500 worse off than a non-smoking worker .
The research says people in West Midlands are losing out on a massive £1.1 billion a year The analysis shows smokers were 5 % less likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rising to 7.5 % for those who had been smoking longer The unemployment level appears to driven primarily by disability caused by smoking-related illness .
Disabled smokers are around 12.5 % less likely to be in work than disabled non-smokers .
Working smokers have weekly earnings that are on average 6.8 per cent lower than non-smokers , equivalent to £1,424 less per smoker .
More than 25,000 smokers over 21 are economically inactive each year in the West Midlands , forfeiting over £534 million in lost earnings , according to analysis by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smoking and Health ( ASH ) .
ASH is submitting the research to the government to show how its ambition to end smoking also has a crucial role to play in delivering the ‘ levelling up ’ agenda , [ 5 ] particularly in the poorest , most disadvantaged communities where smoking rates are highest .

That’s the question being posed by new research which shows that smokers in the region are more likely to be unemployed and worse off financially than their non-smoking neighbours.
And even if you are a smoker who is in work, you are likely to be nearly £1,500 worse off than a non-smoking worker.
The research says people in West Midlands are losing out on a massive £1.1 billion a year
The analysis shows smokers were 5% less likely to be in employment compared to non-smokers, rising to 7.5% for those who had been smoking longer
The unemployment level appears to driven primarily by disability caused by smoking-related illness. Disabled smokers are around 12.5% less likely to be in work than disabled non-smokers.
Working smokers have weekly earnings that are on average 6.8 per cent lower than non-smokers, equivalent to £1,424 less per smoker.
More than 25,000 smokers over 21 are economically inactive each year in the West Midlands, forfeiting over £534 million in lost earnings, according to analysis by Landman Economics for health charity Action on Smoking and Health (ASH).
ASH is submitting the research to the government to show how its ambition to end smoking also has a crucial role to play in delivering the ‘levelling up’ agenda, [5] particularly in the poorest, most disadvantaged communities where smoking rates are highest.
.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Map shows rise in coronavirus cases in Stourport

THERE has been a spike in confirmed coronavirus cases in the Lickhill and Burlish area of Stourport .
The latest @ @ @ @ @ England shows 14 people had tested positive for Covid-19 in Lickhill and Burlish between October @ @ @ @ @ the latest data available .
It means Lickhill and Burlish has the highest number of @ @ @ @ @ , followed by Comberton with 10 .
A total of 3,968 confirmed cases have been @ @ @ @ @ outbreak began , according to Public Health England figures .
Of those cases , 684 @ @ @ @ @ Forest , 670 in Worcester , 401 in Malvern , 711 in Wychavon , 893 @ @ @ @ @ Redditch .
Here are the number of positive cases recorded in Wyre Forest in the @ @ @ @ @ are split into several `` middle super output areas '' – zones that are slightly @ @ @ @ @ an average population of around 7,200 people .

The latest data published by Public Health England shows 14 people had tested positive for Covid-19 in Lickhill and Burlish between October 1 and October 7 – the latest data available.
It means Lickhill and Burlish has the highest number of positive cases in Wyre Forest, followed by Comberton with 10.
A total of 3,968 confirmed cases have been recorded in Worcestershire since the outbreak began, according to Public Health England figures.
Of those cases, 684 have been recorded in Wyre Forest, 670 in Worcester, 401 in Malvern, 711 in Wychavon, 893 in Bromsgrove and 609 in Redditch.
Here are the number of positive cases recorded in Wyre Forest in the last week:
The figures are split into several "middle super output areas" – zones that are slightly larger than postcode areas with an average population of around 7,200 people.
Stourport Lickhill and Burlish - 14
Comberton - 10
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown - 8
Foley Park - 8
Spennells and Hoobrook - 8
Greenhill - 7
Kidderminster Town - 7
Habberley - 6
Stourport Mitton and Wilden - 5
Franche - 4
Stourport Areley Kings - 4
Bewdley East and Upper Arley - 3
Birchen Coppice - 3


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Autumn images from our Facebook Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club

Here are some images from our Advertiser and Shuttle Camera Club , for more pay us a visit on Facebook


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Aldi pledge to donate thousands of meals at Christmas (and are looking for charities to help)

Aldi have pledged to donate thousands of surplus meals this Christmas - and have called on charities , community groups and food banks to register now to receive the donations on Christmas Eve .
Here 's everything you need to know .
Last Christmas , Aldi donated nearly 450,000 meals to good causes throughout the UK , and expects to increase this number for Christmas 2020 .
The meals will support those in need at a time when more households are experiencing financial hardship and food insecurity as a result of the pandemic .
Thanks to Aldi ’ s successful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platform that links businesses to food banks and charities , all of Aldi ’ s 894 UK stores now donate surplus food seven days a week , all year round .
Christmas provides an opportunity for even more charities to benefit from the initiative , and any charities and community groups with the resource to help can get in touch to register for a festive food donation from Britain ’ s fifth largest supermarket .
Charities will be paired with local Aldi stores and can collect fresh and chilled food products that are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – including fruit , vegetables , fresh meat , fish and bread – ahead of stores closing on Christmas Eve .
What have Aldi said ?
Luke Peech , Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at Aldi UK , said : “ Our Christmas food donations scheme plays a big role in supporting those in need during the festive period and is something we are very passionate about .
This is our fourth year running the initiative and we look forward to working with local charities once again .
“ Last year we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , and this year we ’ re hoping to extend this even further in what has been a challenging year for so many.
” Steve Butterworth from Neighbourly , added : “ Sadly , charities and local causes are expecting record demand for their services this Christmas because of the pandemic and its impact on communities up and down the country .
“ We ’ re sure there are lots more groups out there that could put the food to good use , so we ’ d encourage them to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in touch to apply ?
Organisations do not need to be a registered charity to apply but must : • Have a level two hygiene certificate gained in the last two years .
• Be able to transport and store chilled food products after collecting them on Christmas Eve at 5pm .
When is the deadline to get in touch ?
Those interested in working with Aldi this Christmas should contact Neighbourly at aldichristmas @ neighbourly.com before December 7 , 2020 .

Here's everything you need to know.
Last Christmas, Aldi donated nearly 450,000 meals to good causes throughout the UK, and expects to increase this number for Christmas 2020.
The meals will support those in need at a time when more households are experiencing financial hardship and food insecurity as a result of the pandemic.
Thanks to Aldi’s successful partnership with Neighbourly, a community engagement platform that links businesses to food banks and charities, all of Aldi’s 894 UK stores now donate surplus food seven days a week, all year round.
Christmas provides an opportunity for even more charities to benefit from the initiative, and any charities and community groups with the resource to help can get in touch to register for a festive food donation from Britain’s fifth largest supermarket.
Charities will be paired with local Aldi stores and can collect fresh and chilled food products that are near the end of their shelf life – including fruit, vegetables, fresh meat, fish and bread – ahead of stores closing on Christmas Eve.
What have Aldi said?
Luke Peech, Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at Aldi UK, said: “Our Christmas food donations scheme plays a big role in supporting those in need during the festive period and is something we are very passionate about. This is our fourth year running the initiative and we look forward to working with local charities once again.
“Last year we were able to help thousands of people across the UK, and this year we’re hoping to extend this even further in what has been a challenging year for so many.”
Steve Butterworth from Neighbourly, added: “Sadly, charities and local causes are expecting record demand for their services this Christmas because of the pandemic and its impact on communities up and down the country.
“We’re sure there are lots more groups out there that could put the food to good use, so we’d encourage them to get in touch.”
How can organisations get in touch to apply?
Organisations do not need to be a registered charity to apply but must:
Have a level two hygiene certificate gained in the last two years.
Be able to transport and store chilled food products after collecting them on Christmas Eve at 5pm.
When is the deadline to get in touch?
Those interested in working with Aldi this Christmas should contact Neighbourly at aldichristmas@neighbourly.com before December 7, 2020.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Tesco introduces new coronavirus social distancing measures

Tesco has revealed new social distancing measures set to be introduced in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus .
The supermarket giant has updated its website to inform customers of fresh changes coming into place at its shops .
A message on Tesco 's website says : `` To make sure we ’ re doing everything possible to reduce the risk of infection for our customers and colleagues , we ’ ll be introducing new social distancing measures in our stores soon . ''
It follows last week 's announcement that Tesco was set to introduce a traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put staff back on its entrances to control customer numbers .
At this stage , it is not clear when the new changes will be in force .
These are the changes that are being introduced : • Staff at the entrances of larger stores to remind customers about the safety measures in place , including the legal requirement to wear a face covering .
• Where necessary , Tesco will limit the flow of people coming into stores to make sure they don ’ t get too busy .
• Hand sanitisers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and colleagues to use , as well as extra cleaning products to wipe down your trolley or basket .
• In some stores , Tesco will introduce directional floor markings and new signs to create a safe flow of movement around the store .
• New floor markings will help you to keep a safe distance from others while waiting to pay .
• Tesco is installing protective screens at its checkouts .
• Where possible , it will create separate entrances and exits to its stores , so it ’ s easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoppers .
• Tesco is encouraging customers to shop on their own to help reduce the number of people in-store at any one time .
• If possible , use card or contactless payments .
• Please avoid shopping during Tesco 's dedicated times for vulnerable and elderly people .
Meanwhile , Morrisons announced last week it is introducing `` quieter hours '' on Sundays , where all stores in the UK will have no music , checkout beeps or PA announcements for the first hour of shopping .
Quiet hours will operate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10-4pm on a Sunday .
Quieter hours already operate every Saturday between 9am – 10am in all Morrisons stores .
Morrisons says the initiative was first introduced in 2018 after listening to families affected by autism who shared their difficulties in shopping in noisy and busy environments .
Many customers have appreciated the initiative and , as a result , it will now be extended to the first hour of store opening every Sunday to provide more opportunities to shop peacefully .
• Turn checkout beeps and other electrical noises down • Place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Quieter Hour David Potts , Morrisons Chief Executive , said : `` The introduction of the quieter hours has been appreciated by many customers who prefer to shop in a calmer environment .
`` Extending them to include Sundays will offer more opportunities to shop more peacefully . ''

The supermarket giant has updated its website to inform customers of fresh changes coming into place at its shops.
A message on Tesco's website says: "To make sure we’re doing everything possible to reduce the risk of infection for our customers and colleagues, we’ll be introducing new social distancing measures in our stores soon."
It follows last week's announcement that Tesco was set to introduce a traffic light system to its larger stores and put staff back on its entrances to control customer numbers.
At this stage, it is not clear when the new changes will be in force.
These are the changes that are being introduced:
Staff at the entrances of larger stores to remind customers about the safety measures in place, including the legal requirement to wear a face covering.
Where necessary, Tesco will limit the flow of people coming into stores to make sure they don’t get too busy.
Hand sanitisers are being placed around stores for customers and colleagues to use, as well as extra cleaning products to wipe down your trolley or basket.
In some stores, Tesco will introduce directional floor markings and new signs to create a safe flow of movement around the store.
New floor markings will help you to keep a safe distance from others while waiting to pay.
Tesco is installing protective screens at its checkouts.
Where possible, it will create separate entrances and exits to its stores, so it’s easier to keep a safe distance from other shoppers.
Tesco is encouraging customers to shop on their own to help reduce the number of people in-store at any one time.
If possible, use card or contactless payments.
Please avoid shopping during Tesco's dedicated times for vulnerable and elderly people.
Meanwhile, Morrisons announced last week it is introducing "quieter hours" on Sundays, where all stores in the UK will have no music, checkout beeps or PA announcements for the first hour of shopping.
Quiet hours will operate from 10am-11am for stores that open from 10-4pm on a Sunday.
Quieter hours already operate every Saturday between 9am – 10am in all Morrisons stores.
Morrisons says the initiative was first introduced in 2018 after listening to families affected by autism who shared their difficulties in shopping in noisy and busy environments.
Many customers have appreciated the initiative and, as a result, it will now be extended to the first hour of store opening every Sunday to provide more opportunities to shop peacefully.
Dim the lights
Turn music and radio off
Avoid making tannoy announcements
Reduce movement of trolleys and baskets
Turn checkout beeps and other electrical noises down
Place a poster outside to tell customers it's Quieter Hour
David Potts, Morrisons Chief Executive, said: "The introduction of the quieter hours has been appreciated by many customers who prefer to shop in a calmer environment.
"Extending them to include Sundays will offer more opportunities to shop more peacefully."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Utter mess or good management? Worcestershire's £625k children's services 'profit'

A COUNCILLOR says Worcestershire `` needlessly '' handed £122,500 of taxpayers ' money to central government instead of keeping the funds for local services , and called the situation an `` utter mess '' .
County councillor Charlie Hotham vented his anger after Worcestershire Children First , the ‘ arm ’ s length ’ company which runs children ’ s services on behalf of Worcestershire County Council , made a profit of nearly £625,000 in 2019/20 which means £122,500 goes straight back to the government in corporation tax .
Cllr Hotham accused the authority of “ unnecessarily ” wasting taxpayers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than it needed to provide the service last year , resulting in the company having to pay tax .
But Phil Rook , director of resources at Worcestershire Children First , said the company making a surplus showed `` good financial management '' .
The only income the ‘ not-for-profit ’ company receives is directly from the council to cover the cost of providing children ’ s social care and Worcestershire County Council sets the budget .
“ Instead of reaching a break-even , Worcestershire Children First has made a profit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point is that they have needlessly paid over £120,000 in tax on six months trading .
“ That is council tax money that is going back to the government for nothing .
It is a complete and utter mess .
“ So , they are comfortable with paying £240,000 a year and it ’ s to be treated as another additional running cost of the company as this is seen as a good result ?
I can think of far better ways to spend the money . ''
Mr Rook responded : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 , Worcestershire Children First made a small surplus – less than one per cent of total turnover .
“ This shows good financial management as we have been very careful to manage within our resources since we went live on October 1 last year .
“ The council has not wasted money or overspent as the surplus is still part of the Worcestershire County Council group and form part of its group accounts and the balances are included within their financial statements .
“ The financial position of the company is taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a regular basis .
“ Worcestershire Children First is a wholly owned company limited by guarantee and any surplus would be liable for corporation tax .
The accounts have prepared on that basis .
“ There is a fine balance on the financial position , the company ’ s going concern status as a legal entity , compliance with financial regulations , external audit inspection and interest from HMRC .
“ There is an expectation about wholly owned companies that they will make a financial return and transactions should be at an arm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of resources for the company I have to balance this and I am content we have done this well for the first six months.
” Worcestershire Children First officially took over children ’ s services in the county on October 1 last year .
Worcestershire County Council was instructed by the Department for Education to find a different way of running children ’ s services following an ‘ inadequate ’ judgement by watchdog Ofsted in 2016 in which several “ serious ” safety concerns were identified .
Children ’ s services moved out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months before Worcestershire Children First went ‘ live ’ in with a “ requires improvement ” rating from Ofsted last July .

County councillor Charlie Hotham vented his anger after Worcestershire Children First, the ‘arm’s length’ company which runs children’s services on behalf of Worcestershire County Council, made a profit of nearly £625,000 in 2019/20 which means £122,500 goes straight back to the government in corporation tax.
Cllr Hotham accused the authority of “unnecessarily” wasting taxpayers' money by handing Worcestershire Children First more than it needed to provide the service last year, resulting in the company having to pay tax.
But Phil Rook, director of resources at Worcestershire Children First, said the company making a surplus showed "good financial management".
The only income the ‘not-for-profit’ company receives is directly from the council to cover the cost of providing children’s social care and Worcestershire County Council sets the budget.
“Instead of reaching a break-even, Worcestershire Children First has made a profit,” Cllr Hotham said. “And the point is that they have needlessly paid over £120,000 in tax on six months trading.
“That is council tax money that is going back to the government for nothing. It is a complete and utter mess. “So, they are comfortable with paying £240,000 a year and it’s to be treated as another additional running cost of the company as this is seen as a good result? I can think of far better ways to spend the money."
Mr Rook responded: “For the six months to March 31, Worcestershire Children First made a small surplus – less than one per cent of total turnover.
“This shows good financial management as we have been very careful to manage within our resources since we went live on October 1 last year.
“The council has not wasted money or overspent as the surplus is still part of the Worcestershire County Council group and form part of its group accounts and the balances are included within their financial statements.
“The financial position of the company is taken through council’s democratic processes on a regular basis.
“Worcestershire Children First is a wholly owned company limited by guarantee and any surplus would be liable for corporation tax. The accounts have prepared on that basis.
“There is a fine balance on the financial position, the company’s going concern status as a legal entity, compliance with financial regulations, external audit inspection and interest from HMRC.
“There is an expectation about wholly owned companies that they will make a financial return and transactions should be at an arm’s length.
“As director of resources for the company I have to balance this and I am content we have done this well for the first six months.”
Worcestershire Children First officially took over children’s services in the county on October 1 last year.
Worcestershire County Council was instructed by the Department for Education to find a different way of running children’s services following an ‘inadequate’ judgement by watchdog Ofsted in 2016 in which several “serious” safety concerns were identified.
Children’s services moved out of its “inadequate” rating just months before Worcestershire Children First went ‘live’ in with a “requires improvement” rating from Ofsted last July.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-11--Court freezes Kidderminster company's bank accounts


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-12--Stourport Civic gets funding boost to help it survive coronavirus

THE Civic , Stourport has received a slice of the government 's £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund to help venues recover from the coronavirus pandemic .
The venue has been handed £61,285 which will help The Civic survive the loss in income it has suffered since the lockdown .
John Caldwell , Civic , Stourport trustee , said : `` We are very pleased to have been considered both important enough and sufficiently viable for the Arts Council and the Department for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport to support us through the Cultural Recovery Grant Scheme .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lights burning brightly so that when you , our community , are ready to come back to our fantastic programme of shows , activities , and community events we will be here for you .
`` We have already restarted our programming with professional events , and we ca n't wait for our local community productions to return .
The Civic is one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support from the fund .
£257 million of investment has been announced today ( Monday ) as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England .
Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks .
Kidderminster Town Council has also been awarded £130,903 in the first round of Culture Recovery Fund grants .
Great Witley Church announced last week it is due to receive £37,500 from the fund , and the Severn Valley Railway will receive £906,000 .
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said : “ This funding is a vital boost for the theatres , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that form the soul of our nation .
`` It will protect these special places , save jobs and help the culture sector ’ s recovery .
“ These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country .
This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture , with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.
” District MP Mark Garnier tweeted : `` Delighted to hear that Wyre Forest is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fund Grants .
£192k for Stourport ’ s The Civic and for Kidderminster Town Council . ''

The venue has been handed £61,285 which will help The Civic survive the loss in income it has suffered since the lockdown.
John Caldwell, Civic, Stourport trustee, said: "We are very pleased to have been considered both important enough and sufficiently viable for the Arts Council and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to support us through the Cultural Recovery Grant Scheme.
"This funding will be used to keep the lights burning brightly so that when you, our community, are ready to come back to our fantastic programme of shows, activities, and community events we will be here for you.
"We have already restarted our programming with professional events, and we can't wait for our local community productions to return.
The Civic is one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support from the fund. £257 million of investment has been announced today (Monday) as part of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England.
Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.
Kidderminster Town Council has also been awarded £130,903 in the first round of Culture Recovery Fund grants.
Great Witley Church announced last week it is due to receive £37,500 from the fund, and the Severn Valley Railway will receive £906,000.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation.
"It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.
“These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country. This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.”
District MP Mark Garnier tweeted: "Delighted to hear that Wyre Forest is in the first round of Culture Recovery Fund Grants. £192k for Stourport’s The Civic and for Kidderminster Town Council."