kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-13--What does government's three tier lockdown system mean for Worcestershire?

WORCESTERSHIRE could be in line for more stringent coronavirus measures after the government unveiled its new system for lockdown restrictions .
In his address to the Commons on Monday , prime minister Boris Johnson outlined the new scheme , though said the exact criteria will not be worked out until Tuesday , eventually coming into effect on Wednesday ( October 13 ) .
The PM confirmed there are now more people being treated for coronavirus in hospitals than during March , when the national lockdown was implemented .
Despite this , he said he did not want the country to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have devastating consequences for the economy .
Mr Johnson said : `` This morning ( Monday ) the chief medical officer set out the stark reality of the second wave of coronavirus .
`` The number of cases has quadrupled in the last three weeks and there are more people in hospital now than in March .
`` There are those who believe we should go into a second national lockdown of indefinite length , but I do not believe that is the right course of action .
`` There are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public is expended , and that we should stand aside and let the virus run its course .
`` I understand the emotions and frustrations of those who have been chafing under the restrictions , but if we were to take that step , not only would there be an intolerable death toll , we would put so much strain on the NHS that the doctors and nurses would not be able to treat patients for cancer , heart disease and other conditions . ''
The prime minister went on to explain the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be different levels which local authorities will be placed in depending on their infection rates .
Under the new system , most local authorities will go into the `` medium '' tier , which will consist of the current lockdown measures including the rule of six and 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants .
The next level up will be `` high '' and will include most areas which are currently subject to local lockdown restrictions .
Worcestershire ’ s director for public health , Dr Kathryn Cobain , said the county @ @ @ @ @ @ @ category ” and called on the public to keep up their work keeping the virus rates down .
She said : “ This means we have a choice now ; we can follow the rule of six , keep washing our hands , wear face coverings and keep our distance and keep Worcestershire safe .
“ If we all do this , we avoid further restrictions and finding our county in the upper tiers of measures .
We don ’ t want that to happen here , and so now is the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules.
” Mr Johnson said areas where the number of cases rises the most rapidly will be put into the `` very high '' tier .
In this tier , restrictions on social mixing will be imposed , as well as closing pubs and restaurants .
Schools , workplaces and shops will remain open in this case , according to Mr Johnson .
During this time , chancellor Rishi Sunak 's jobs support scheme will be continued .
He added : `` This is not how we want to live our lives , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tread .
`` The weeks and months ahead will continue to be difficult and will test the mettle of this country .
I have no doubt at all that together we will succeed . ''

In his address to the Commons on Monday, prime minister Boris Johnson outlined the new scheme, though said the exact criteria will not be worked out until Tuesday, eventually coming into effect on Wednesday (October 13).
The PM confirmed there are now more people being treated for coronavirus in hospitals than during March, when the national lockdown was implemented.
Despite this, he said he did not want the country to go into another lockdown, saying it would have devastating consequences for the economy.
Mr Johnson said: "This morning (Monday) the chief medical officer set out the stark reality of the second wave of coronavirus.
"The number of cases has quadrupled in the last three weeks and there are more people in hospital now than in March.
"There are those who believe we should go into a second national lockdown of indefinite length, but I do not believe that is the right course of action.
"There are also those who say the patience of the public is expended, and that we should stand aside and let the virus run its course.
"I understand the emotions and frustrations of those who have been chafing under the restrictions, but if we were to take that step, not only would there be an intolerable death toll, we would put so much strain on the NHS that the doctors and nurses would not be able to treat patients for cancer, heart disease and other conditions."
The prime minister went on to explain the new three-tier system, saying there will be different levels which local authorities will be placed in depending on their infection rates.
Under the new system, most local authorities will go into the "medium" tier, which will consist of the current lockdown measures including the rule of six and 10pm closing times for pubs and restaurants.
The next level up will be "high" and will include most areas which are currently subject to local lockdown restrictions.
Worcestershire’s director for public health, Dr Kathryn Cobain, said the county would be placed in the “medium category” and called on the public to keep up their work keeping the virus rates down.
She said: “This means we have a choice now; we can follow the rule of six, keep washing our hands, wear face coverings and keep our distance and keep Worcestershire safe.
“If we all do this, we avoid further restrictions and finding our county in the upper tiers of measures. We don’t want that to happen here, and so now is the time to do our utmost to follow the rules.”
Mr Johnson said areas where the number of cases rises the most rapidly will be put into the "very high" tier.
In this tier, restrictions on social mixing will be imposed, as well as closing pubs and restaurants.
Schools, workplaces and shops will remain open in this case, according to Mr Johnson.
During this time, chancellor Rishi Sunak's jobs support scheme will be continued.
He added: "This is not how we want to live our lives, but this is the line we have to tread.
"The weeks and months ahead will continue to be difficult and will test the mettle of this country. I have no doubt at all that together we will succeed."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-13--Kidderminster social club reopens after major refurb with outdoor bar

A SPORTS and social club in Kidderminster has reopened after a major refurbishment with a new outdoor bar , terrace area and a special tribute to one of its longest-serving members .
Franche Village Sports and Social Club has extended into the space of the former church hall in Wolverley Road and has been kitted out with a new kitchen , reception , toilet block , outdoor bar and a terrace overlooking the bowling green .
Trustee Brian Salmon and chairman Duncan Corfield at the newly-refurbished Franche Village Sports and Social Club Building work started last October , paid for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completed during lockdown in an effort to help the club expand its membership and hold more community events .
Club president Duncan Corfield said : `` When the church hall became vacant and fell into disrepair , we were given the opportunity to take on the lease and redevelop the area , giving the club much-needed outside space .
The old church hall in Wolverley Road had fallen into a state of disrepair '' It has n't been the easiest of projects to complete in the present financial climate , however in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new area , it has proven a great success . ''
The members only club has already seen a rise in membership applications since the refurbishment and board members hope to hold more community and fundraising events in the extended space once social distancing rules are eased .
Member Richard Whitehouse said : `` The club was in desperate need for an outdoor area .
We were very restricted before in terms of the events we could hold because we just did n't have the space .
`` Now , members can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bowls or watch the children play .
`` The club usually holds a bonfire display but we 're very restricted because we have n't had much outdoor space .
The refurb opens up what we can do here .
It means we can hold more community events - outdoor events in particular - and maybe hold some live music events in future . ''
The new outdoor bar at Franche Village Sports and Social Club The new outdoor area has been named The Ted Aston Terrace in honour of its longest serving member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unveiled to mark the club 's reopening .
Richard added : `` Ted has been a member of the club for 65 years and served as president in the 1980s .
`` For many years , if you wanted to know where Ted was , he would either be working or doing something for the club .
`` It was his 90th birthday recently and we wanted to do something to recognise the years of service he 's given to the club .
`` He helped to move the club forwards towards the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ted , who now lives in Bournemouth , visited the Kidderminster club on Friday to admire the refurb and plaque in person .
Now aged 91 , Ted told The Shuttle : `` I started at the club in 1952 .
I used to live next door and I was a carpenter and joiner by trade , so I did different bits of work around the club .
`` I put a new floor in the bar and organised bits of work that needed doing .
I did a lot of it in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down by Bournemouth now but I 've always stayed interested in the club .
The new outdoor terrace at Franche Village Sports and Social Club '' I was surprised and honoured when they said they wanted to put a plaque in to honour me .
It 's been great to come back and see how it 's changed . ''
Ted 's wife Sylvia was the first female president of the club in 1989 .
Franche Village Sports and Social Club was formed in 1908 and today has more than 900 members .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ year for charity , including the Severn Valley Railway to support its apprenticeship programme .

Franche Village Sports and Social Club has extended into the space of the former church hall in Wolverley Road and has been kitted out with a new kitchen, reception, toilet block, outdoor bar and a terrace overlooking the bowling green.
Trustee Brian Salmon and chairman Duncan Corfield at the newly-refurbished Franche Village Sports and Social Club
Building work started last October, paid for through members' fundraising, and was completed during lockdown in an effort to help the club expand its membership and hold more community events.
Club president Duncan Corfield said: "When the church hall became vacant and fell into disrepair, we were given the opportunity to take on the lease and redevelop the area, giving the club much-needed outside space.
The old church hall in Wolverley Road had fallen into a state of disrepair
"It hasn't been the easiest of projects to complete in the present financial climate, however in the limited time we have had to use the new area, it has proven a great success."
The members only club has already seen a rise in membership applications since the refurbishment and board members hope to hold more community and fundraising events in the extended space once social distancing rules are eased.
Member Richard Whitehouse said: "The club was in desperate need for an outdoor area. We were very restricted before in terms of the events we could hold because we just didn't have the space.
The new outdoor terrace
"Now, members can sit outside and relax and watch the bowls or watch the children play.
"The club usually holds a bonfire display but we're very restricted because we haven't had much outdoor space. The refurb opens up what we can do here. It means we can hold more community events - outdoor events in particular - and maybe hold some live music events in future."
The new outdoor bar at Franche Village Sports and Social Club
The new outdoor area has been named The Ted Aston Terrace in honour of its longest serving member of 65 years and a plaque was unveiled to mark the club's reopening.
Richard added: "Ted has been a member of the club for 65 years and served as president in the 1980s.
"For many years, if you wanted to know where Ted was, he would either be working or doing something for the club.
Long-serving Franche Village Social Club member Ted Aston
"It was his 90th birthday recently and we wanted to do something to recognise the years of service he's given to the club.
"He helped to move the club forwards towards the club it has become today."
Ted, who now lives in Bournemouth, visited the Kidderminster club on Friday to admire the refurb and plaque in person.
Long-serving member Ted Aston with club chairman Duncan Corfield
Now aged 91, Ted told The Shuttle: "I started at the club in 1952. I used to live next door and I was a carpenter and joiner by trade, so I did different bits of work around the club.
"I put a new floor in the bar and organised bits of work that needed doing. I did a lot of it in my spare time.
"I live down by Bournemouth now but I've always stayed interested in the club.
The new outdoor terrace at Franche Village Sports and Social Club
"I was surprised and honoured when they said they wanted to put a plaque in to honour me. It's been great to come back and see how it's changed."
Ted's wife Sylvia was the first female president of the club in 1989.
Franche Village Sports and Social Club was formed in 1908 and today has more than 900 members. Club members raise more than £5,000 each year for charity, including the Severn Valley Railway to support its apprenticeship programme.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-13--Martin Lewis warns what shoppers 'should not buy' for Christmas

Money Saving expert Martin Lewis has told people to be careful when buying gift cards this Christmas .
Speaking on ITV 's This Morning , the finance expert said he is `` not a fan of gift cards '' , after viewers asked what their rights are in terms of using Cineworld gift cards now the cinema chain has closed .
During the segment he issued a stern warning against buying loved-ones gift cards for Christmas .
He said : `` The biggest answer I can give you and anyone else is , and I 've said this many times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pertinent - I am extremely anti gift cards . ''
`` The simple fact is that first of all some of them date - so someone buys them for you and if you do n't use them in two years they are not worth it .
`` But more importantly , if the company goes bust they are worthless .
`` You just have to claim as a creditor on the administator . ''
The struggling cinema chain , which is also behind Picturehouse cinemas , has been forced to close all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to covid .
Blockbuster movie releases including the nest James Bond movie No Time To Die have been pushed back to next year because of coronavirus , prompting the temporary closures .
Martin continued : `` In this time of terrible uncertainty , and retailers wo n't like me saying this , the last thing I would be giving anyone for Christmas is a gift card , unless it is from a company I was absolutely rock certain . ''
• SEE ALSO :  Cineworld to shut down all cinemas after James @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going to purchase a gift card , companies like Amazon and Selfridges could be safer bets , but said : `` I 'm taking a guess I do n't know the strength of these companies '' .
Speaking on what people can do with their Cineworld gift cards , he told Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield : `` Cineworld has temporarily closed , we hope .
`` Obviously we live in very uncertain times at the moment on these types of things .
`` My team have been badgering them for an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it but we have n't had anything back . ''
Gift vouchers are worth only what the company say they are worth , and if it goes bust , that can end up being nothing .
Coronavirus has left many big businesses struggling , including in retail and hospitality where gift vouchers are commonly used .
Another reason Martin said for avoiding gift cards is that many have a limited time to use them .
Martin said `` Some of them date , so if someone buys them for you and you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're not worth anything . ''
Shoppers lost almost £100million in unused vouchers as stores closed during coronavirus lockdown , according to Which ?
research .

Speaking on ITV's This Morning, the finance expert said he is "not a fan of gift cards", after viewers asked what their rights are in terms of using Cineworld gift cards now the cinema chain has closed.
During the segment he issued a stern warning against buying loved-ones gift cards for Christmas.
He said: "The biggest answer I can give you and anyone else is, and I've said this many times before but never has it been more pertinent - I am extremely anti gift cards."
Martin Lewis speaking on ITV's This Morning
"The simple fact is that first of all some of them date - so someone buys them for you and if you don't use them in two years they are not worth it.
"But more importantly, if the company goes bust they are worthless.
"You just have to claim as a creditor on the administator."
The struggling cinema chain, which is also behind Picturehouse cinemas, has been forced to close all of its 127 locations in the UK due to covid.
Blockbuster movie releases including the nest James Bond movie No Time To Die have been pushed back to next year because of coronavirus, prompting the temporary closures.
Martin continued: "In this time of terrible uncertainty, and retailers won't like me saying this, the last thing I would be giving anyone for Christmas is a gift card, unless it is from a company I was absolutely rock certain."
SEE ALSO: Cineworld to shut down all cinemas after James Bond delay
Martin added that if you are going to purchase a gift card, companies like Amazon and Selfridges could be safer bets, but said: "I'm taking a guess I don't know the strength of these companies".
Speaking on what people can do with their Cineworld gift cards, he told Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield: "Cineworld has temporarily closed, we hope.
"Obviously we live in very uncertain times at the moment on these types of things.
"My team have been badgering them for an answer of what you can do with it but we haven't had anything back."
Gift vouchers are worth only what the company say they are worth, and if it goes bust, that can end up being nothing.
Coronavirus has left many big businesses struggling, including in retail and hospitality where gift vouchers are commonly used.
Another reason Martin said for avoiding gift cards is that many have a limited time to use them.
Martin said "Some of them date, so if someone buys them for you and you don't use them in two years they're not worth anything."
Shoppers lost almost £100million in unused vouchers as stores closed during coronavirus lockdown, according to Which? research.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-13--Aldi and Lidl middle aisles - what's available from Thursday, October 15?

The latest items hitting the shelves in the middle of Aldi and Lidl on Thursday , October 15 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ retailers .
We 've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each @ @ @ @ @ Aldi are selling electricals , home heating , Halloween items and DIY equipment as part @ @ @ @ @ deals .
A High Vision Reading Lamp ( Approx .
138cm tall ) will go @ @ @ @ @ .
Plus , a Convection Heater with Remote , which includes three heat settings , @ @ @ @ @ £39.99 each .
In the middle of Lidl this week , the supermarket chain have @ @ @ @ @ including indoor and outoor plants , DIY items and fireworks .
A Large Green Houseplant @ @ @ @ @ £10.99 each .
Plus , a Silvercrest Wireless Battery-Free Doorbell will go on sale for @ @ @

We've rounded-up some of the highlights to look out for in each supermarket.
Aldi
This week, Aldi are selling electricals, home heating, Halloween items and DIY equipment as part of their Specialbuys set of deals.
These include:
A 1.2m Halloween Inflatable Dracula/Witch/Pumpkin for £14.99 each.
A High Vision Reading Lamp (Approx. 138cm tall) will go on sale for £39.99 each.
Plus, a Convection Heater with Remote, which includes three heat settings, will go on sale for £39.99 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 indoor and outoor plants, DIY items and fireworks.
These include:
A Parkside 101-Piece Tool Kit for £49.99 each.
A Large Green Houseplant will go on sale for £10.99 each.
Plus, a Silvercrest Wireless Battery-Free Doorbell will go on sale for £9.99 each.
For more details, visit: Lidl.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-13--These are the most dangerous celebrities to search for online in 2020

BBC chatshow host Graham Norton has been named as the most dangerous celebrity to search for online in 2020 .
Norton ’ s name ranked as the riskiest due to search results potentially leading internet users to installing malware on their devices without releasing .
Research by cybersecurity firm McAfee has found that Norton ’ s name came ahead of comedian Ricky Gervais and actor Tom Hardy .
This is because cybercriminals tend to use the names of celebrities or popular topics to entice web users to click on harmful links .
This can result in viruses being installed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data being harvested .
What have researchers said ?
Raj Samani , chief scientist and McAfee Fellow , said : “ We know that online criminals use consumers ’ fascination with celebrity culture to drive unsuspecting fans to malicious websites that install malware on their devices , potentially putting personal information and log-in details in the wrong hands , so it ’ s no surprise that we ’ ve seen one of the UK ’ s most-loved national treasures topping the list , with hackers exploiting his popularity.
” Which other celebrities are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out by McAfee looked at the celebrity names which most commonly appeared alongside search terms such as “ torrent ” , “ free mp3 ” , “ nudes ” or “ pirated download.
” The cybersecurity company ’ s annual report found that the names of famous UK personalities were a popular choice for scams this year , with Gervais and Hardy ranking second and third respectively , Ruth Jones coming fourth and Sir Mick Jagger as fifth .
Australian actor Margot Robbie was named sixth on the list for names being used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Idris Elba seventh ahead of Kate Moss and American model Bella Hadid , with UK baking legend Mary Berry ranking 10th on the list .
McAfee encouraged internet users to be careful when clicking links , and also to refrain from using illegal streaming sites .

Norton’s name ranked as the riskiest due to search results potentially leading internet users to installing malware on their devices without realising.
Research by cybersecurity firm McAfee has found that Norton’s name came ahead of comedian Ricky Gervais and actor Tom Hardy.
This is because cybercriminals tend to use the names of celebrities or popular topics to entice web users to click on harmful links. This can result in viruses being installed on someone’s device, and personal data being harvested.
What have researchers said?
Raj Samani, chief scientist and McAfee Fellow, said: “We know that online criminals use consumers’ fascination with celebrity culture to drive unsuspecting fans to malicious websites that install malware on their devices, potentially putting personal information and log-in details in the wrong hands, so it’s no surprise that we’ve seen one of the UK’s most-loved national treasures topping the list, with hackers exploiting his popularity.”
Which other celebrities are on the list?
The research carried out by McAfee looked at the celebrity names which most commonly appeared alongside search terms such as “torrent”, “free mp3”, “nudes” or “pirated download.”
The cybersecurity company’s annual report found that the names of famous UK personalities were a popular choice for scams this year, with Gervais and Hardy ranking second and third respectively, Ruth Jones coming fourth and Sir Mick Jagger as fifth.
Australian actor Margot Robbie was named sixth on the list for names being used by cyber criminals to entice web users, with Idris Elba seventh ahead of Kate Moss and American model Bella Hadid, with UK baking legend Mary Berry ranking 10th on the list.
The list in full:
1) Graham Norton
2) Ricky Gervais
3) Tom Hardy
4) Ruth Jones
5) Mick Jagger
6) Margot Robbie
7) Idris Elba
8) Kate Moss
9) Bella Hadid
10) Mary Berry
McAfee encouraged internet users to be careful when clicking links, and also to refrain from using illegal streaming sites.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Warning to Wyre Forest to stop county reaching higher lockdown tier

THE Director for Public Health in Worcestershire is urging residents to act now to avoid tougher lockdown rules in the county as Wyre Forest 's infection rate remains `` particularly high '' .
Worcestershire is currently in tier one of the government 's new coronavirus alert system , meaning it has the least restrictive measures in place .
But Dr Kathryn Cobain says infection rates continue to rise overall across the county , and remain particularly high in Bromsgrove , which now has an infection rate of 121 per 100,000 , and in Wyre Forest , with a rate of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rising rate of infection in Wyre Forest at the end of September when it reached 49 .
Dr Cobain says residents have an opportunity now to prevent tougher rules being introduced - by reducing how many people they are mixing with , considering the risk level in the places they visit and following all the guidelines .
“ Worcestershire does not want to face tougher restrictions , '' said Dr Cobain .
`` You can help prevent that , by staying local and really reducing who you mix with .
`` Cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with people , keep your distance from others and remember to wash your hands and wear face coverings .
`` If you reduce where you go , consider who you are travelling with , who you mix with , stick to the rule of 6 and follow these rules , we will see the spread of Covid-19 reducing .
`` If we lower the numbers of cases , we reduce the risk of us being put into tier two measures .
`` Further restrictions will impact our lives , our businesses and our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at tier one , then we have to stick to the rules now more than ever . ''
Lickhill and Burlish had the highest number of positive Covid-19 cases in Wyre Forest last week with 14 , according to the latest data published by Public Health England .
Here are the number of positive cases recorded in Wyre Forest between October 3 and October 9 - the latest data available : A Public Health England map shows where coronavirus cases were confirmed in Wyre Forest last week The figures are split into several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zones that are slightly larger than postcode areas with an average population of around 7,200 people .

Worcestershire is currently in tier one of the government's new coronavirus alert system, meaning it has the least restrictive measures in place.
But Dr Kathryn Cobain says infection rates continue to rise overall across the county, and remain particularly high in Bromsgrove, which now has an infection rate of 121 per 100,000, and in Wyre Forest, with a rate of 94.
Concerns were first raised about the rising rate of infection in Wyre Forest at the end of September when it reached 49.
Dr Cobain says residents have an opportunity now to prevent tougher rules being introduced - by reducing how many people they are mixing with, considering the risk level in the places they visit and following all the guidelines.
“Worcestershire does not want to face tougher restrictions," said Dr Cobain. "You can help prevent that, by staying local and really reducing who you mix with.
"Cut down the number of contacts you have with people, keep your distance from others and remember to wash your hands and wear face coverings.
"If you reduce where you go, consider who you are travelling with, who you mix with, stick to the rule of 6 and follow these rules, we will see the spread of Covid-19 reducing.
"If we lower the numbers of cases, we reduce the risk of us being put into tier two measures.
"Further restrictions will impact our lives, our businesses and our economy, if we want to stay at tier one, then we have to stick to the rules now more than ever."
Lickhill and Burlish had the highest number of positive Covid-19 cases in Wyre Forest last week with 14, according to the latest data published by Public Health England.
Here are the number of positive cases recorded in Wyre Forest between October 3 and October 9 - the latest data available:
A Public Health England map shows where coronavirus cases were confirmed in Wyre Forest 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
Wolverley, Cookley and Blakedown - 9
Spennells and Hoobrook - 8
Kidderminster Town - 7
Habberley - 7
Foley Park - 7
Comberton - 6
Greenhill - 6
Stourport Mitton and Wilden - 6
Bewdley West, Ribbesford and Far Forest - 4
Bewdley East and Upper Arley - 3
Stourport Areley Kings - 3


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Blood tests issue not causing major problems in county, NHS says

AN issue with the national supply of components used for blood tests has not affected patients in Worcestershire as badly as was first believed .
The NHS say they were able to overcome the problem which initially led to GP surgeries in Wyre Forest being told to suspend nearly all appointments for blood tests last week .
A spokesperson for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the Midlands said : “ We have been supporting health systems with responding to a national supply issue affecting some pathology activity .
• GPs in Kidderminster , Stourport and Bewdley suspend almost all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are facilitating mutual aid to ensure areas have the stock they need to carry out urgent work and will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.
” Pharmaceutical company Roche , which supplies blood tests said it moved warehouses to a new national distribution centre last month and faced `` a number of unforeseen issues which are delaying the dispatch of some products '' .
This led to concern about the supply of certain items so a letter was sent out to GPs asking them to prioritise urgent blood tests and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But over the weekend , deliveries were made which improved the situation and relieved some of the backlog .
Worcestershire now expects to receive more deliveries .
The Herefordshire and Worcestershire system is being supported by others via mutual aid where necessary , by redistributing stock to practices which need it more than others .
This also has helped clinicians keep on top of the situation .
Last week , Roche said : “ The current issue with the dispatch of products in the UK has not and will not affect our commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are confident that the plans we have put in place will deliver significant improvements by the weekend to the supply of the tests affected by these logistical issues .
We will be well on the way to resolution by the end of next week . ''

The NHS say they were able to overcome the problem which initially led to GP surgeries in Wyre Forest being told to suspend nearly all appointments for blood tests last week.
A spokesperson for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the Midlands said: “We have been supporting health systems with responding to a national supply issue affecting some pathology activity.
Read more:
"As a region, we are facilitating mutual aid to ensure areas have the stock they need to carry out urgent work and will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.”
Pharmaceutical company Roche, which supplies blood tests said it moved warehouses to a new national distribution centre last month and faced "a number of unforeseen issues which are delaying the dispatch of some products".
This led to concern about the supply of certain items so a letter was sent out to GPs asking them to prioritise urgent blood tests and cancel non urgent tests if needed.
But over the weekend, deliveries were made which improved the situation and relieved some of the backlog. Worcestershire now expects to receive more deliveries.
The Herefordshire and Worcestershire system is being supported by others via mutual aid where necessary, by redistributing stock to practices which need it more than others. This also has helped clinicians keep on top of the situation.
Last week, Roche said: “The current issue with the dispatch of products in the UK has not and will not affect our commitment to supply Covid-19 tests.
“We are confident that the plans we have put in place will deliver significant improvements by the weekend to the supply of the tests affected by these logistical issues. We will be well on the way to resolution by the end of next week."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Number of patients waiting over a year for routine treatment at Worcestershire hospitals has rockete

Number of patients waiting over a year for routine treatment at Worcestershire hospitals has rocketed

THE number of patients waiting more than a year for routine treatment at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust has rocketed to a record high , new figures reveal .
The King 's Fund thinktank says there is a “ mountain to climb ” to tackle delays caused by Covid-19 , after NHS data showed more than 100,000 people across England had been waiting at least a year for non-urgent care – the most for more than a decade .
NHS statistics show 869 patients had been on the waiting list for 52 weeks or more for elective operations or treatment at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This was the highest figure for the month since comparable local records began in 2011 – the previous August , just four patients had been delayed as long .
According to NHS rules , patients referred for non-urgent consultant-led elective care should start treatment within 18 weeks .
Across England , the number of people waiting a year or more hit 111,000 , a near tenfold increase from 1,236 in August 2019 and the highest figure since 2008 .
Siva Anandaciva , chief analyst at The King ’ s Fund , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to restore services and find innovative new ways to care for patients , but as these figures show , there is a mountain to climb before waits for routine NHS care return to pre-pandemic levels .
“ It now seems unlikely that the highly ambitious targets set for the recovery of NHS performance over autumn will be met , and it is important to be honest with patients and the public about how long people are likely to have to wait for care.
” A combination of the huge treatment backlog , rising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surge in demand on services and exhausted and overstretched staff means NHS leaders are “ braced for a torrid winter ” , he added .
“ Much will therefore depend on whether the Government can deliver increased capacity and improvements to the testing system to enable NHS and social care staff to be regularly tested for Covid.
” Of the 38,444 patients waiting for treatment at Worcestershire 's trust at the end of August , 52 % had been doing so for more than the 18-week window .
Trusts are expected to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients wait beyond 18 weeks .
Nationally , 46 % of the 4.2 million people waiting at the end of the month had overshot the target time , although this an improvement on 53 % in July .
An NHS spokesman said : “ Hospitals are carrying out more than a million routine appointments and operations per week , with around three times the levels of elective patients admitted to hospital than in April , as they continue to make progress on getting services back to pre-Covid levels including scanning services which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ It is obviously vital for patients that this progress continues , and is n't jeopardised by a second wave of Covid infections spiralling out of control . ''

The King's Fund thinktank says there is a “mountain to climb” to tackle delays caused by Covid-19, after NHS data showed more than 100,000 people across England had been waiting at least a year for non-urgent care – the most for more than a decade.
NHS statistics show 869 patients had been on the waiting list for 52 weeks or more for elective operations or treatment at Worcestershire trust at the end of August.
This was the highest figure for the month since comparable local records began in 2011 – the previous August, just four patients had been delayed as long. According to NHS rules, patients referred for non-urgent consultant-led elective care should start treatment within 18 weeks.
Across England, the number of people waiting a year or more hit 111,000, a near tenfold increase from 1,236 in August 2019 and the highest figure since 2008.
Siva Anandaciva, chief analyst at The King’s Fund, said: “NHS staff are working hard to restore services and find innovative new ways to care for patients, but as these figures show, there is a mountain to climb before waits for routine NHS care return to pre-pandemic levels.
“It now seems unlikely that the highly ambitious targets set for the recovery of NHS performance over autumn will be met, and it is important to be honest with patients and the public about how long people are likely to have to wait for care.”
A combination of the huge treatment backlog, rising Covid-19 hospital admissions, an expected winter surge in demand on services and exhausted and overstretched staff means NHS leaders are “braced for a torrid winter”, he added.
“Much will therefore depend on whether the Government can deliver increased capacity and improvements to the testing system to enable NHS and social care staff to be regularly tested for Covid.”
Of the 38,444 patients waiting for treatment at Worcestershire's trust at the end of August, 52% had been doing so for more than the 18-week window. Trusts are expected to make sure no more than 8% of patients wait beyond 18 weeks.
Nationally, 46% of the 4.2 million people waiting at the end of the month had overshot the target time, although this an improvement on 53% in July.
An NHS spokesman said: “Hospitals are carrying out more than a million routine appointments and operations per week, with around three times the levels of elective patients admitted to hospital than in April, as they continue to make progress on getting services back to pre-Covid levels including scanning services which are delivering millions of urgent checks and tests.
“It is obviously vital for patients that this progress continues, and isn't jeopardised by a second wave of Covid infections spiralling out of control."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Delays to trains through Kidderminster after lorry hits bridge

TRAINS through Kidderminster are being hit with delays after a lorry hit a bridge this morning .
The accident happened at a bridge in Cradley Road , near Cradley Heath train station , this morning ( Wednesday ) with trains expected to be hit by delays until at least 1pm .
West Midlands Trains was notified by British Transport Police at around 10am about the incident which saw a lorry stike and scrape a bridge .
The lorry did n't stop at the scene .
West Midlands Trains tweeted : `` A lorry has hit a bridge under the railway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , trains between Birmingham Snow Hill and Worcester through Stourbridge Junction are being delayed .
`` Disruption is expected until 13:00 . ''
A West Midlands Railway spokesperson said : “ Services between Stourbridge and Birmingham were subject to delays and cancellations this morning after a lorry struck a bridge near Cradley Heath .
“ Services are now returning to normal and passengers can check live travel information on journey planners .
`` Anyone whose journey was delayed by 15 minutes or more as a result of this incident can claim compensation via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said trains had been delayed as they had had to travel at a slower speed over the bridge , while checks on its structural safety were carried out .
These have now confirmed the bridge is safe , but services could be affected until around 1pm by knock-on delays while services get back to normal .

The accident happened at a bridge in Cradley Road, near Cradley Heath train station, this morning (Wednesday) with trains expected to be hit by delays until at least 1pm.
West Midlands Trains was notified by British Transport Police at around 10am about the incident which saw a lorry stike and scrape a bridge.
The lorry didn't stop at the scene.
West Midlands Trains tweeted: "A lorry has hit a bridge under the railway near Cradley Heath. As a result, trains between Birmingham Snow Hill and Worcester through Stourbridge Junction are being delayed. "Disruption is expected until 13:00."
📢 A lorry has hit a bridge under the railway near Cradley Heath. As a result, trains between Birmingham Snow Hill and Worcester through Stourbridge Junction are being delayed. Disruption is expected until 13:00. — West Midlands Railway (@WestMidRailway) October 14, 2020
A West Midlands Railway spokesperson said: “Services between Stourbridge and Birmingham were subject to delays and cancellations this morning after a lorry struck a bridge near Cradley Heath.
“Services are now returning to normal and passengers can check live travel information on journey planners.
"Anyone whose journey was delayed by 15 minutes or more as a result of this incident can claim compensation via the Delay Repay scheme.”
The spokesman said trains had been delayed as they had had to travel at a slower speed over the bridge, while checks on its structural safety were carried out.
These have now confirmed the bridge is safe, but services could be affected until around 1pm by knock-on delays while services get back to normal.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Darlington 1-3 Kidderminster Harriers

Darlington 1-3 Kidderminster Harriers

Harriers picked up a first win of the season thanks to a 3-1 success at Darlington .
The visitors had been behind - as they had been in each of their matches so far this season - but showed tremendous character to battle back through goals from Omari Sterling , Ashley Hemmings and Sam Austin .
It was definitely Darlington who started the brighter of the two sides and with just over ten minutes gone they were in front when Donawa 's dangerous cross was turned past his own goalkeeper by Alex Penny .
The hosts kept up the pressure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Storey had a brace of efforts and McMahon forced a good save from Simpson .
As it was , Harriers grabbed an equaliser at a crucial time .
Against the run of play on the half-hour mark , Sterling looked up and confidently chipped the ball beyond Jonny Saltmer and into his top corner .
The visitors ended the half on top and scored again , a wonderful team move capped with a late run into the box by Hemmings who side-footed Austin 's cross into the net .
Harriers needed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restart and they did so effectively at Blackwell Meadows , snuffing out the threat of the Quakers as well as remaining a threat , despite the loss of Hemmings through injury .
On 66 minutes Austin 's quick feet were causing Darlington problems and only a good save from Saltmer kept his rising shot at bay , before the shot-stopper was extended again to thwart Sterling , his stinging drive heading goalwards before a strong parry diverted it away .
Morgan-Smith shot low into the goalkeeper 's hands with eight level to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put beyond doubt as Austin 's sensational first-time effort flew into the top corner - his second of the season and a deserved third for Harriers .
Penn 's charges will look to take the confidence from this result into their home clash against Alfreton Town which takes place at Aggborough on Saturday , 3pm .

The visitors had been behind - as they had been in each of their matches so far this season - but showed tremendous character to battle back through goals from Omari Sterling, Ashley Hemmings and Sam Austin.
It was definitely Darlington who started the brighter of the two sides and with just over ten minutes gone they were in front when Donawa's dangerous cross was turned past his own goalkeeper by Alex Penny.
The hosts kept up the pressure and should have added to their score as Storey had a brace of efforts and McMahon forced a good save from Simpson.
As it was, Harriers grabbed an equaliser at a crucial time. Against the run of play on the half-hour mark, Sterling looked up and confidently chipped the ball beyond Jonny Saltmer and into his top corner.
The visitors ended the half on top and scored again, a wonderful team move capped with a late run into the box by Hemmings who side-footed Austin's cross into the net.
Harriers needed to ensure they kept things tight at the restart and they did so effectively at Blackwell Meadows, snuffing out the threat of the Quakers as well as remaining a threat, despite the loss of Hemmings through injury.
On 66 minutes Austin's quick feet were causing Darlington problems and only a good save from Saltmer kept his rising shot at bay, before the shot-stopper was extended again to thwart Sterling, his stinging drive heading goalwards before a strong parry diverted it away.
Morgan-Smith shot low into the goalkeeper's hands with eight level to go but just after, the game was put beyond doubt as Austin's sensational first-time effort flew into the top corner - his second of the season and a deserved third for Harriers.
Penn's charges will look to take the confidence from this result into their home clash against Alfreton Town which takes place at Aggborough on Saturday, 3pm.
Harriers: Simpson, Penny, Richards, Lowe, Montrose, Austin, Morgan-Smith (Freemantle 90), Hemmings (White 61), Sterling (Moyo 71), Taylor, Prosser.
Subs not used: Palmer, Martin
Referee: John Mulligan


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Which? issue alert on baby sleeping bags that pose choking and suffocation risk

New research from consumer association Which ?
has revealed that certain baby sleeping bags currently on sale the market pose a 'significant safety risk ' to infants .
The watchdog looked into the potential dangers posed by baby sleeping bags sold by online marketplaces , as well as by big name brands .
The study tested 15 baby sleeping bags from online marketplaces , high street stores and leading brand websites - and found that 12 of them failed safety tests .
The problems with the sleeping bags ranged from missing safety information in the instructions to possible suffocation hazards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the research ?
Which ?
explained : “ Seven of the failures our testing exposed were serious enough to cause a baby harm or endanger its life .
“ The five remaining safety test failures were caused by a product not meeting the requirements of the BS EN 16781:2018 , which is the safety standard for sleeping bags.
” These are the brands that failed the tests set out by Which ?
.
This sleeping bag had an issue with its neck opening - Which ?
found that it shouldn ’ t have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for children aged six to 18 months .
The neck opening was 40.6cm , which means that the baby could slip down inside the sleeping bag and suffocate .
There was a similar issue with this sleeping bag , as the neck opening was also too big for a baby up to six months old .
At 35.4cm , again , the baby ’ s head could slip underneath the bag .
Which ?
also found that the sleeping bag gets too hot , measuring a tog level of 4.2 when it shouldn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our assessments we found openings that a baby could get their finger trapped in and the button inside the hood could easily be pulled off , presenting a choking risk , ” Which ?
says .
Another major safety issue is that this product comes with a hood .
Baby sleeping bags should not have hoods due to suffocation risks .
In the tests , Which ?
found threads coming off this bag that are longer than allowed by standard - loose threads are a problem as they can be pulled by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Which ?
says , “ The height and age the bag is designed for isn ’ t mentioned on the product and no instructions were provided with it , making it an instant fail in our tests.
” The zip on this sleeping bag was too easy to pull open , meaning a baby could get tangled in the bag , or trap their fingers .
The bag was also found to get too hot in the Which ?
tests , exceeding the upper tog limit by 26 per cent , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ re very worried about the dangers this bag could pose to babies .
The neck opening is much too wide at 45.6cm , which means a baby could slip inside the bag and suffocate , ” Which ?
says .
These are the sleeping bags that also failed the current safety standards set out :

The watchdog looked into the potential dangers posed by baby sleeping bags sold by online marketplaces, as well as by big name brands.
The study tested 15 baby sleeping bags from online marketplaces, high street stores and leading brand websites - and found that 12 of them failed safety tests.
The problems with the sleeping bags ranged from missing safety information in the instructions to possible suffocation hazards.
What have Which? said about the research?
Which? explained: “Seven of the failures our testing exposed were serious enough to cause a baby harm or endanger its life.
“The five remaining safety test failures were caused by a product not meeting the requirements of the BS EN 16781:2018, which is the safety standard for sleeping bags.”
Which brands failed the tests?
These are the brands that failed the tests set out by Which?.
JoJo Maman Bebe Nautical Lightweight Baby Sleeping Bag, £32
This sleeping bag had an issue with its neck opening - Which? found that it shouldn’t have exceeded the 39cm that is considered suitable for children aged six to 18 months.
The neck opening was 40.6cm, which means that the baby could slip down inside the sleeping bag and suffocate.
Baby Newborn Sleeveless Baby Sleeping Bag, sold via Bloom Baby, £18 (AliExpress)
There was a similar issue with this sleeping bag, as the neck opening was also too big for a baby up to six months old.
At 35.4cm, again, the baby’s head could slip underneath the bag.
Which? also found that the sleeping bag gets too hot, measuring a tog level of 4.2 when it shouldn’t exceed 4.
Baby Sleeping Bag/Cocoon Stroller, sold via Housebay 01 Store, £34 (AliExpress)
“In our assessments we found openings that a baby could get their finger trapped in and the button inside the hood could easily be pulled off, presenting a choking risk,” Which? says.
Another major safety issue is that this product comes with a hood. Baby sleeping bags should not have hoods due to suffocation risks.
Cotton Nursery Bedding, sold via Coolcatsetsuna, £7 (eBay)
In the tests, Which? found threads coming off this bag that are longer than allowed by standard - loose threads are a problem as they can be pulled by the baby, turning into a strangulation hazard.
Sweet Dreams Little Star Wearable Infant Blanket, sold via TwinkleTwinkleTees, £19.99 (Etsy)
Which? says, “The height and age the bag is designed for isn’t mentioned on the product and no instructions were provided with it, making it an instant fail in our tests.”
Baby Child Sleeping Bag, sold via Good Things, £19 (Wish)
The zip on this sleeping bag was too easy to pull open, meaning a baby could get tangled in the bag, or trap their fingers.
The bag was also found to get too hot in the Which? tests, exceeding the upper tog limit by 26 per cent, which would cause an infant to overheat.
Pre-washed Cotton Baby Sleeping Bag, sold via San Daohul, £7 (Wish)
“We’re very worried about the dangers this bag could pose to babies. The neck opening is much too wide at 45.6cm, which means a baby could slip inside the bag and suffocate,” Which? says.
Sleeping bags which failed current safety standards
These are the sleeping bags that also failed the current safety standards set out:


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Winter warning from Hereford and Worcester Fire Service

FIRE chiefs have issued an urgent warning that there could be more deadly candle fires this winter because of Covid .
Around 40 % of candle fires end with someone killed or injured .
And fire safety experts fear that with more people at home because of the pandemic there could be more then normal this year .
Winter celebrations like Halloween and Guy Fawkes are times of high risk of tragedies can because people want to give them that traditional feel with a set of candles .
This week is Candle Fire Safety Week and local fire chiefs are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snuff out ’ any risks .
Hereford and Worcester Fire Service say they have dealt with more than 100 fires started by candles in the last ten years .
In a quarter of cases people ended up in hospital , and a third of the fires were in homes with children or dependants .
Sometimes people are using them to add cheer to a celebration , other times people are using scented candles .
Most candle fires happen at night and in the living room or bedroom .
Many are because people fall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steve Andrews of the service ’ s Community Risk department said : “ Candles are a typical sight in many homes , scenting our rooms and giving an atmospheric glow to cold winter nights .
but left unattended , an open flame could leave a trail of devastation .
“ Many of us may be currently spending more time at home during the pandemic , so increased vigilance is called for .
• never leave lit candles unattended .
Always put them out when you leave the room , even for a moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surface , out of the reach of pets and children • keep away from flammable objects like curtains , furniture , bedding and books • don ’ t move candles once they are lit • do not burn several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare • only burn candles in a well-ventilated room , out of drafts , vents or air currents - to help prevent rapid or uneven burning , soot , and dripping .
• put candles out with a snuffer or a spoon - sparks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder – they ’ re designed to liquefy when heated to maximum fragrance • make sure that everyone knows what to do if a fire happens– and practise your escape route • If there is a fire , get out , stay out and call 999 .

Around 40% of candle fires end with someone killed or injured.
And fire safety experts fear that with more people at home because of the pandemic there could be more then normal this year.
Winter celebrations like Halloween and Guy Fawkes are times of high risk of tragedies can because people want to give them that traditional feel with a set of candles.
This week is Candle Fire Safety Week and local fire chiefs are asking people to make sure they ‘snuff out’ any risks.
Hereford and Worcester Fire Service say they have dealt with more than 100 fires started by candles in the last ten years.
In a quarter of cases people ended up in hospital, and a third of the fires were in homes with children or dependants.
Sometimes people are using them to add cheer to a celebration, other times people are using scented candles.
Most candle fires happen at night and in the living room or bedroom. Many are because people fall asleep or become distracted.
Station Commander Steve Andrews of the service’s Community Risk department said:
“Candles are a typical sight in many homes, scenting our rooms and giving an atmospheric glow to cold winter nights. but left unattended, an open flame could leave a trail of devastation.
“Many of us may be currently spending more time at home during the pandemic, so increased vigilance is called for.
Top Tips:
• never leave lit candles unattended. Always put them out when you leave the room, even for a moment
• place candles carefully on a stable surface, out of the reach of pets and children
• keep away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, bedding and books
• don’t move candles once they are lit
• do not burn several candles close together as this might cause the flame to flare
• only burn candles in a well-ventilated room, out of drafts, vents or air currents - to help prevent rapid or uneven burning, soot, and dripping.
• put candles out with a snuffer or a spoon - sparks can fly if you blow them out
• always put scented candles in a heat resistant holder – they’re designed to liquefy when heated to maximum fragrance
• fit a smoke alarm and test it monthly
• make sure that everyone knows what to do if a fire happens– and practise your escape route
• If there is a fire, get out, stay out and call 999.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Red or Dead designer Wayne Hemingway will create new vision for Kidderminster

A DESIGNER who founded the world famous fashion brand Red or Dead has been commissioned to create a new vision for the future of Kidderminster .
Marketplace expert Wayne Hemingway says he is paying the town back for the support given to him 40 years ago .
His company , Hemingway Designs , won a successful bid which will allow them to work with Wyre Forest District Council on a new town centre project .
Mr Hemingway , aged 59 , visited the town on Tuesday to discuss ideas with leaders and to take a trip through the place he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hemingway discussing ideas with his team outside Kidderminster Town Hall After moving to London from the north of England , the designer became a part of the club culture scene .
He started selling Dr Martens around the country and bought stock from a wholesaler in Kidderminster .
Mr Hemingway told The Shuttle : “ I got to know Kidderminster quite well .
I was here every two weeks or so .
“ We would load up with Dr Martens – we were the only ones doing it.
” Now , Wyre Forest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ purpose for the town centre and is looking at how it can adapt to unprecedented market changes .
It is working on a model which can be adapted for all the town centres across Wyre Forest .
The council says it has noted massive changes in shopping habits , global trends and what attracts people to town centres .
Kidderminster has been particularly affected , the council said , and is also now feeling the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic .
Some major high street retailers have already indicated that they will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hemingway and his team will now be formulating a vision for the town which will consider these changes and directly involve the community in the planning process .
“ We entered a bid to come up with a vision for the future of Kidderminster town centre and we happily won it , '' he said .
`` We ’ re going through the biggest societal change in how people live their lives and use their town centres .
“ Everybody has ideas – our first job is to come up with a series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ideas for the public .
“ We ’ d like to get a few thousand people to fill in a short survey – we hope to get that out within a few weeks .
“ We genuinely enjoy collaboration , and the town will get more out of it .
”

Marketplace expert Wayne Hemingway says he is paying the town back for the support given to him 40 years ago.
His company, Hemingway Designs, won a successful bid which will allow them to work with Wyre Forest District Council on a new town centre project.
Mr Hemingway, aged 59, visited the town on Tuesday to discuss ideas with leaders and to take a trip through the place he often visited in the 1980s.
Wayne Hemingway discussing ideas with his team outside Kidderminster Town Hall
After moving to London from the north of England, the designer became a part of the club culture scene. He started selling Dr Martens around the country and bought stock from a wholesaler in Kidderminster.
Mr Hemingway told The Shuttle: “I got to know Kidderminster quite well. I was here every two weeks or so.
“We would load up with Dr Martens – we were the only ones doing it.”
Now, Wyre Forest District Council is working on a new purpose for the town centre and is looking at how it can adapt to unprecedented market changes.
It is working on a model which can be adapted for all the town centres across Wyre Forest.
The council says it has noted massive changes in shopping habits, global trends and what attracts people to town centres.
Kidderminster has been particularly affected, the council said, and is also now feeling the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic. Some major high street retailers have already indicated that they will not be reopening in the town.
Read more:
Mr Hemingway and his team will now be formulating a vision for the town which will consider these changes and directly involve the community in the planning process.
“We entered a bid to come up with a vision for the future of Kidderminster town centre and we happily won it," he said. "We’re going through the biggest societal change in how people live their lives and use their town centres.
“Everybody has ideas – our first job is to come up with a series of questions to try and test out ideas for the public.
“We’d like to get a few thousand people to fill in a short survey – we hope to get that out within a few weeks.
“We genuinely enjoy collaboration, and the town will get more out of it.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--New exhibit reveals Severn Valley Railway's fascinating past

AN innovative mobile exhibition at the Severn Valley Railway will lift the lid on the fascinating history of the 158-year-old line .
The new exhibit will be housed inside a specially-adapted brake van , No 2886 , stationed alongside a loading dock at Kidderminster Station this half-term .
Restored last year by experts in the SVR ’ s workshops , the van , affectionately known as the Stove R , now contains interactive exhibits with the sounds , sights and smells of the railway over the years .
Guests will get a glimpse into the lives of a series of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recordings and diary entries .
Freddie , Olivia and charlie Evans at the Engine House .
Photo by Elizabeth Songhurst Meanwhile , The Engine House visitor centre at Highley goes even deeper into the lives of SVR folk over the centuries .
Full-size totem characters give an in-depth insight into their experiences .
Visitors can meet Sarah Woodward , a businesswoman who built her fortunes on the railway ’ s arrival , and Edward Wilson , the engineer who designed Falling Sands viaduct at Kidderminster .
There ’ s a chance for young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try out being a navigator , transporting rocks with a shovel and wheelbarrow - plus , a wardrobe of clothes for adults and children to dress up as a soldier , nurse , factory worker and more .
And for half-term week , there ’ s a bat trail around The Engine House which youngsters can follow to discover fascinating facts about the history of the railway .
Helen Smith , general manager at SVR , said : `` We ’ re getting ready to welcome thousands of visitors to the SVR this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trips mean a full day of fun for everyone .
`` We ’ re especially pleased to be able to launch the Stove R mobile exhibition this month , and think this is going to be a real hit with everyone who wants to know more about the history and background of our heritage railway.
” The new exhibitions in the Stove R and at The Engine House have been made possible by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund , as part of a £1.3 million project to restore the SVR ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the viaduct itself continues , as contractors use rope access equipment to repair the brickwork and re-point the mortar on the outside of the structure .
Entry to both the Stove R mobile exhibition at Kidderminster and The Engine House at Highley is included within the ticket price , and half-term services run daily from Friday , October 23 to Monday , November 2 .
For more information on services and to book tickets , visit svr.co.uk or phone 01562 757900 .

The new exhibit will be housed inside a specially-adapted brake van, No 2886, stationed alongside a loading dock at Kidderminster Station this half-term.
Restored last year by experts in the SVR’s workshops, the van, affectionately known as the Stove R, now contains interactive exhibits with the sounds, sights and smells of the railway over the years.
Guests will get a glimpse into the lives of a series of characters associated with the SVR through voice recordings and diary entries.
Freddie, Olivia and charlie Evans at the Engine House. Photo by Elizabeth Songhurst
Meanwhile, The Engine House visitor centre at Highley goes even deeper into the lives of SVR folk over the centuries.
Full-size totem characters give an in-depth insight into their experiences. Visitors can meet Sarah Woodward, a businesswoman who built her fortunes on the railway’s arrival, and Edward Wilson, the engineer who designed Falling Sands viaduct at Kidderminster.
There’s a chance for young children to build their own viaduct and try out being a navigator, transporting rocks with a shovel and wheelbarrow - plus, a wardrobe of clothes for adults and children to dress up as a soldier, nurse, factory worker and more.
And for half-term week, there’s a bat trail around The Engine House which youngsters can follow to discover fascinating facts about the history of the railway.
Helen Smith, general manager at SVR, said: "We’re getting ready to welcome thousands of visitors to the SVR this half-term, and our carefully designed excursion trips mean a full day of fun for everyone.
"We’re especially pleased to be able to launch the Stove R mobile exhibition this month, and think this is going to be a real hit with everyone who wants to know more about the history and background of our heritage railway.”
The Falling Sands Viaduct
The new exhibitions in the Stove R and at The Engine House have been made possible by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as part of a £1.3 million project to restore the SVR’s Falling Sands viaduct.
Work on the viaduct itself continues, as contractors use rope access equipment to repair the brickwork and re-point the mortar on the outside of the structure.
Entry to both the Stove R mobile exhibition at Kidderminster and The Engine House at Highley is included within the ticket price, and half-term services run daily from Friday, October 23 to Monday, November 2.
For more information on services and to book tickets, visit svr.co.uk or phone 01562 757900.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--Bewdley man's very expensive ornaments

Bewdley man's very expensive ornaments

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

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


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-14--A 21st Century ‘Swallows and Amazons’ School Nestled in North Worcestershire

King ’ s Hawford brings together hands-on opportunities , exploration , and technology to create a dynamic and exciting school community where children foster a life-long love of learning .
The award-winning Junior School , nestled in 23 acres of lush green countryside in North Worcestershire , offers a rural paradise for children aged between 2 to 11 .
King ’ s Hawford has often been described as a ‘ 21st Century Swallows and Amazons school ’ , encouraging all its pupils to make full use of the leafy terrain that surrounds it , including the adjacent canal , river @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Headteacher , Jim Turner , calls the impressive space the ‘ Big Sky School ’ as it fully encapsulates the school ’ s ethos of outdoor learning and letting children enjoy and preserve their childhood .
From any classroom , children and teachers are able to admire all that King ’ s Hawford has to offer from its vast sporting grounds , its refurbished Library bus and even roaming chickens .
Children from the age of two start using King ’ s Hawford ’ s on-site swimming pool and from seven , pupils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the canal .
At breaktimes , many of the children can be found climbing trees , running around the fields and splashing in puddles - getting muddy and having fun in the process .
Allowing children to explore the great outdoors equips them with the skills they need to appreciate and make sense of the world around them and their role within it , ultimately creating well-rounded , curious and excited pupils , ready for their next steps in life .
The King ’ s Hawford ethos is that the best learning takes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choices .
In keeping with this philosophy , child-initiated learning is at the core of the King ’ s Hawford experience .
A community made up not just of pupils but also of dedicated teachers and a strong focus on well-being .
Pastoral care , also referred to internally as The King 's Warmth , is not just a complementary practice , it is a caring approach fully integrated and interwoven into the fabric of teaching and learning .
The school strongly believes in the power of providing plentiful opportunities for children as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eager , and willing to try new things .
This belief is underpinned by the school ’ s impressive extracurricular programme which includes everything from construction , sewing , IT , comic drawing , and bridge just to name a handful .
Traditional teaching is combined with outdoor learning and the latest technology to create the best possible learning environments for each pupil .
The arts , music and sports are embraced by all , alongside academic studies .
Teaching staff emphasise that learning can , and should always , be fun .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ many children achieving outstanding academic results .
The Junior School is part of The King ’ s School foundation , which means that once children join King ’ s Hawford , they are forever a part of the King ’ s family .
The school ’ s close connections with King ’ s Worcester Senior School also ensures a smooth progression for pupils aged 11+ .
The transition from Junior to Senior School is seamless , with many of our children moving up to King ’ s Worcester with the lifelong friends they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hawford .
Teaching staff work hard to cultivate a warm , close , and dynamic community .
King ’ s Hawford boasts a village school atmosphere with a world of opportunity , based in flourishing north Worcestershire .
For more information or to register for an Open Morning visit www.ksw.org.uk/meetkings

Headteacher, Jim Turner, calls the impressive space the ‘Big Sky School’ as it fully encapsulates the school’s ethos of outdoor learning and letting children enjoy and preserve their childhood. From any classroom, children and teachers are able to admire all that King’s Hawford has to offer from its vast sporting grounds, its refurbished Library bus and even roaming chickens.
Children from the age of two start using King’s Hawford’s on-site swimming pool and from seven, pupils can often be seen paddling canoes on the canal. At breaktimes, many of the children can be found climbing trees, running around the fields and splashing in puddles - getting muddy and having fun in the process.
Allowing children to explore the great outdoors equips them with the skills they need to appreciate and make sense of the world around them and their role within it, ultimately creating well-rounded, curious and excited pupils, ready for their next steps in life. The King’s Hawford ethos is that the best learning takes place when children are free to make choices. In keeping with this philosophy, child-initiated learning is at the core of the King’s Hawford experience.
A community made up not just of pupils but also of dedicated teachers and a strong focus on well-being. Pastoral care, also referred to internally as The King's Warmth, is not just a complementary practice, it is a caring approach fully integrated and interwoven into the fabric of teaching and learning.
The school strongly believes in the power of providing plentiful opportunities for children as this allows them to be open, eager, and willing to try new things. This belief is underpinned by the school’s impressive extracurricular programme which includes everything from construction, sewing, IT, comic drawing, and bridge just to name a handful.
Traditional teaching is combined with outdoor learning and the latest technology to create the best possible learning environments for each pupil. The arts, music and sports are embraced by all, alongside academic studies. Teaching staff emphasise that learning can, and should always, be fun. The results speak for themselves, with many children achieving outstanding academic results.
The Junior School is part of The King’s School foundation, which means that once children join King’s Hawford, they are forever a part of the King’s family. The school’s close connections with King’s Worcester Senior School also ensures a smooth progression for pupils aged 11+. The transition from Junior to Senior School is seamless, with many of our children moving up to King’s Worcester with the lifelong friends they’ve made at King’s Hawford.
Teaching staff work hard to cultivate a warm, close, and dynamic community. King’s Hawford boasts a village school atmosphere with a world of opportunity, based in flourishing north Worcestershire.
For more information or to register for an Open Morning visit www.ksw.org.uk/meetkings


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Developer to review Stourport homes plan after traffic concerns

THE developer behind plans to build 118 homes at the old Stourport Sixth Form Centre site has pledged to review the proposed access point after concerns were raised .
Homes builder Taylor Wimpey launched a consultation last week for the proposed Windermere Grange development , which would generate funds for essential repairs to the nearby Stourport High School .
The Minster Road high school is in need of repairs to the main fabric of the building , while heating and mechanical installations needed to be replaced , asbestos removed , buildings re-cladded and electrical wiring replaced .
The proposed housing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stourport Sixth Form centre Despite securing a number of financial grants , Severn Academies Education Trust ( SAET ) , which runs Stourport High , was unable to raise the amount of money required , and agreed with the Secretary of State to sell the land to help fund the repairs .
An initial public consultation for up to 100 new homes was held by the school in April 2019 , and concerns were then raised over the potential for traffic “ gridlock ” near the planned access point in Coniston Crescent - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nearby Burlish Park Primary School .
Taylor Wimpey is proposing to maintain the access point used for the former sixth form to the south of Coniston Crescent , which has already prompted a backlash from Stourport Town Council .
Councillor Chris Rogers told The Shuttle : “ We welcome this housing development , but not with the entrance from Coniston Crescent .
The traffic on the road at school times is already a problem .
`` There are three schools in the area and already , you could not get an emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of houses they are proposing and you could be looking at another 200 vehicles on the road .
• Consultation opens on new plans for 118 homes at old Stourport Sixth Form • Red or Dead designer will create new vision for Kidderminster town centre A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said : “ We understand and appreciate the local community ’ s concerns with the proposed access point at Coniston Crescent .
`` We have included this within our proposals for the site of the former Stourport Sixth Form Centre , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technically deliverable option .
“ However , we are committed to reviewing The Kingsway as an alternative access point for the proposed development in conjunction with the district and town council .
” The online consultation will run until October 30 .
People can have their say at taylorwimpey.co.uk/windermeregrange .
Comments can also be made via email to windermeregrange @ taylorwimpey-pr.co.uk .

Homes builder Taylor Wimpey launched a consultation last week for the proposed Windermere Grange development, which would generate funds for essential repairs to the nearby Stourport High School.
The Minster Road high school is in need of repairs to the main fabric of the building, while heating and mechanical installations needed to be replaced, asbestos removed, buildings re-cladded and electrical wiring replaced.
The proposed housing development at the site of the old Stourport Sixth Form centre
Despite securing a number of financial grants, Severn Academies Education Trust (SAET), which runs Stourport High, was unable to raise the amount of money required, and agreed with the Secretary of State to sell the land to help fund the repairs.
An initial public consultation for up to 100 new homes was held by the school in April 2019, and concerns were then raised over the potential for traffic “gridlock” near the planned access point in Coniston Crescent - a popular walking route for schoolchildren from the nearby Burlish Park Primary School.
Taylor Wimpey is proposing to maintain the access point used for the former sixth form to the south of Coniston Crescent, which has already prompted a backlash from Stourport Town Council.
Councillor Chris Rogers told The Shuttle: “We welcome this housing development, but not with the entrance from Coniston Crescent. The traffic on the road at school times is already a problem.
"There are three schools in the area and already, you could not get an emergency vehicle up there. Add to that the number of houses they are proposing and you could be looking at another 200 vehicles on the road.
"It’s asking for a disaster.”
Read more:
A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said: “We understand and appreciate the local community’s concerns with the proposed access point at Coniston Crescent.
"We have included this within our proposals for the site of the former Stourport Sixth Form Centre, as we believe it is a viable and technically deliverable option.
“However, we are committed to reviewing The Kingsway as an alternative access point for the proposed development in conjunction with the district and town council .”
The online consultation will run until October 30. People can have their say at taylorwimpey.co.uk/windermeregrange. Comments can also be made via email to windermeregrange@taylorwimpey-pr.co.uk.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Mum's fury as Kidderminster child rapist gets community service not jail

A DEVASTATED mum says her family ’ s life has been ‘ ripped apart ’ after a Kidderminster child rapist who sexually assaulted her five-year-old daughter was sentenced to just community service .
The mother , who the Shuttle is not naming in order to prevent her daughter being identified , says she is appealing the sentence at the High Court .
Callum Haycock , of Leswell Street , Kidderminster , was sentenced to a three-year community order and 35 days ’ rehabilitation requirement at Worcester Crown Court on Thursday , October 1 .
He was also fined £200 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after being found guilty of a charge of raping a child under 13 , as well as being put on the Sexual Offenders ’ Register for five years .
But the girl ’ s mother is devastated Haycock was not handed a jail term for the incident .
She said : “ I ran out of the court and slammed the door behind me , as I walked out of the court I just shouted ‘ it ’ s a f***ing joke ’ .
I see no justice for my daughter in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the High Court in London .
This has ripped our lives apart .
“ We ’ ve had to have counselling , it ’ s ruined our lives .
It separated me and my partner because we both didn ’ t know how to deal with it so we took it out on each other.
” The heartbroken mother , however , said she has found consolation in the courage of her daughter , who testified at the trial .
She added : “ She ’ s been incredibly brave , she gave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m immensely proud of her .
She ’ s one of the bravest little girls I ’ ve ever met .
“ She will get over this but she will never forget it .
It will always be there but she ’ s not the sort that is going to let it ruin her life .
She still smiles every day and gets on with life .
“ She does wet the bed but we ’ re going through counselling to try to sort that out .
She has difficulties forming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , obviously .
“ We told her that he ’ d got to pay her some money , because he ’ s got to pay her £2,500 compensation , and she turned around and said she wants to give it to the poor .
“ The police were amazing with us and so were Witness Support .
They were very supportive and patient and they handled everything with dignity .
”

The mother, who the Shuttle is not naming in order to prevent her daughter being identified, says she is appealing the sentence at the High Court.
Callum Haycock, of Leswell Street, Kidderminster, was sentenced to a three-year community order and 35 days’ rehabilitation requirement at Worcester Crown Court on Thursday, October 1.
He was also fined £200 and ordered to pay £2,500 to the victim after being found guilty of a charge of raping a child under 13, as well as being put on the Sexual Offenders’ Register for five years.
But the girl’s mother is devastated Haycock was not handed a jail term for the incident.
She said: “I ran out of the court and slammed the door behind me, as I walked out of the court I just shouted ‘it’s a f***ing joke’. I see no justice for my daughter in this.
“We’ve appealed to the High Court in London. This has ripped our lives apart.
“We’ve had to have counselling, it’s ruined our lives. It separated me and my partner because we both didn’t know how to deal with it so we took it out on each other.”
The heartbroken mother, however, said she has found consolation in the courage of her daughter, who testified at the trial.
She added: “She’s been incredibly brave, she gave evidence at the trial and everything. I’m immensely proud of her. She’s one of the bravest little girls I’ve ever met.
“She will get over this but she will never forget it. It will always be there but she’s not the sort that is going to let it ruin her life. She still smiles every day and gets on with life.
“She does wet the bed but we’re going through counselling to try to sort that out. She has difficulties forming relationships with strange men in her life, obviously.
“We told her that he’d got to pay her some money, because he’s got to pay her £2,500 compensation, and she turned around and said she wants to give it to the poor.
“The police were amazing with us and so were Witness Support. They were very supportive and patient and they handled everything with dignity.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--Goal reached for Kidderminster coach's surgery to stop paralysis

A 23-YEAR-old cricket coach from Kidderminster will undergo life-changing surgery to stop him from becoming paralysed from the waist down thanks to generous donations from members of the public .
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 that he found out it wasn ’ t a sports injury after all - he was diagnosed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatments and discovered a highly-advanced type of non-invasive surgery called CyberKnife , typically used to treat cancer , which uses radioactive lasers .
Surgeons in London said they could permanently remove Jack ’ s AVM and prevent him from ever becoming paralysed - but it would cost £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 .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 set about raising the £20,000 before the start of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Me page , which has raised the full £20,000 in just 13 days .
Jack said : “ I am completely amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity shown .
Thank you ever so much to everyone who donated to my Go Fund Me page , the target has been absolutely smashed in just 13 days !
Incredible generosity from everybody .
What an effort !
“ I can ’ t wait to have this surgery and get rid of this terrible condition for good.
” His mum Sarah added : “ There are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
”

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 that 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.
Surgeons in London said they could permanently remove Jack’s AVM and prevent him from ever becoming paralysed - but it would cost £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 set about raising the £20,000 before the start of November and set up a Go Fund Me page, which has raised the full £20,000 in just 13 days.
Jack said: “I am completely amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity shown. Thank you ever so much to everyone who donated to my Go Fund Me page, the target has been absolutely smashed in just 13 days! Incredible generosity from everybody. What an effort!
“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.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-10-15--MP Mark Garnier weighs in on chlorinated chicken debate

CHLORINATED chicken is dominating the press .
Or , put another way , food standards in the context of international trade deals .
There are two sides of this argument , but a bit of explanation first .
The reference to chlorinated chicken comes from US standards of food production .
The US allows lower animal welfare , but higher standards of cleanliness .
So , unhappy chickens need to be rinsed in chlorine to make them safe to eat .
UK chickens have higher standards , so carry fewer bugs on them .
We don ’ t need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times more likely to catch a bug from a UK chicken than a US one .
And UK standards means higher prices for local food .
So , one of the arguments is about consumer choice .
Many argue that if the consumer knows the origin of their food , and can make an informed decision , why should they be denied the opportunity to buy cheaper food ?
The other side of the argument is that if the government , reflecting popular opinion on animal welfare standards , sets targets that make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be wholly wrong and contradictory to then allow our domestic producers to be undercut by cheap imports .
The media is full of celebrity chefs campaigning for high standards .
But what is perplexing is that they are calling for MPs to support an amendment that serves no purpose whatsoever .
Indeed , it has negative effects on developing countries .
Our food standards are set in law , including the EU Withdrawal Act .
Changing these standards requires new legislation .
Our standards are regulated by the Food Standards Agency .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licensing regime that forces countries seeking to import food to the UK to go through a comprehensive licensing process .
Trade deals can not over-ride UK domestic law .
Moreover , these deals will be scrutinised by the International Trade Committee ( of which I am a member ) and other select committees with relevant interests ( such as the Environment Select Committee , looking at food standards ) .
If parliament doesn ’ t like a trade deal , it can block its passage using the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NFU ( and others ) through the Strategic Trade Advisory Group .
Animal welfare is , rightly , high on people ’ s priorities .
But the arguments get confused and misguided , frequently by misunderstanding of what is going on .
There is no intention to compromise any UK animal welfare standards , either through trade deals or in any other way .

There are two sides of this argument, but a bit of explanation first.
The reference to chlorinated chicken comes from US standards of food production. The US allows lower animal welfare, but higher standards of cleanliness.
So, unhappy chickens need to be rinsed in chlorine to make them safe to eat. UK chickens have higher standards, so carry fewer bugs on them.
We don’t need to sterilise them. But we are four times more likely to catch a bug from a UK chicken than a US one. And UK standards means higher prices for local food.
So, one of the arguments is about consumer choice. Many argue that if the consumer knows the origin of their food, and can make an informed decision, why should they be denied the opportunity to buy cheaper food?
The other side of the argument is that if the government, reflecting popular opinion on animal welfare standards, sets targets that make UK food more expensive, it would be wholly wrong and contradictory to then allow our domestic producers to be undercut by cheap imports.
The media is full of celebrity chefs campaigning for high standards. But what is perplexing is that they are calling for MPs to support an amendment that serves no purpose whatsoever. Indeed, it has negative effects on developing countries.
Our food standards are set in law, including the EU Withdrawal Act. Changing these standards requires new legislation.
Our standards are regulated by the Food Standards Agency. With imports, this is done by a licensing regime that forces countries seeking to import food to the UK to go through a comprehensive licensing process.
Trade deals cannot over-ride UK domestic law. Moreover, these deals will be scrutinised by the International Trade Committee (of which I am a member) and other select committees with relevant interests (such as the Environment Select Committee, looking at food standards).
If parliament doesn’t like a trade deal, it can block its passage using the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act 2010. And the government works with the NFU (and others) through the Strategic Trade Advisory Group.
Animal welfare is, rightly, high on people’s priorities. But the arguments get confused and misguided, frequently by misunderstanding of what is going on.
There is no intention to compromise any UK animal welfare standards, either through trade deals or in any other way.