kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Whole school in Bewdley closed after positive Covid case

A PRIMARY school in Bewdley has closed after a member of staff tested positive for Covid-19 .
A staff member from the senior leadership team at St Anne 's CE Primary School in Wyre Hill has tested positive for coronavirus , Worcestershire 's Public Health team confirmed .
Due to several teaching staff being identified as close contacts , St Anne 's has taken the decision to close the whole school .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , director of Public Health for Worcestershire , said : “ An individual from the senior leadership team at St Anne ’ s Primary School @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ This case was quickly identified , and the school is being supported by Public Health .
`` As a number of fellow leadership team members and teaching staff have been identified as close contacts , the school has taken the decision to close .
“ Those identified as contacts are now also self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and all children are being supported to continue their learning through remote access.
” Dr Cobain warned residents yesterday to continue taking the virus seriously after the county recorded its worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ The increase in case numbers and deaths across the county is a real concern .
It is also a stark reminder that coronavirus remains in our communities .
`` It is imperative that we all continue to take the virus seriously , following the Hand , Face , Space and social distancing guidelines at all times .
`` The guidelines apply to everyone and following them is the most effective way to stop the spread of the virus .
`` This includes staying the full two metres apart from other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and avoiding social contact with others , we are saving lives .
It is that simple .
`` This high level of social distancing is vital to keep everyone safe and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.
” Dr Cobain was speaking after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15 .
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April , though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19 .
The weeks and months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates .
In recent weeks , there has been either zero or one death reported most days .

A staff member from the senior leadership team at St Anne's CE Primary School in Wyre Hill has tested positive for coronavirus, Worcestershire's Public Health team confirmed.
Due to several teaching staff being identified as close contacts, St Anne's has taken the decision to close the whole school.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of Public Health for Worcestershire, said: “An individual from the senior leadership team at St Anne’s Primary School in Bewdley has tested positive for Covid-19.
“This case was quickly identified, and the school is being supported by Public Health.
"As a number of fellow leadership team members and teaching staff have been identified as close contacts, the school has taken the decision to close.
“Those identified as contacts are now also self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and all children are being supported to continue their learning through remote access.”
Dr Cobain warned residents yesterday to continue taking the virus seriously after the county recorded its worst weekend death toll since April.
She said: “The increase in case numbers and deaths across the county is a real concern. It is also a stark reminder that coronavirus remains in our communities.
"It is imperative that we all continue to take the virus seriously, following the Hand, Face, Space and social distancing guidelines at all times.
"The guidelines apply to everyone and following them is the most effective way to stop the spread of the virus.
"This includes staying the full two metres apart from other people. By doing all we can and avoiding social contact with others, we are saving lives. It is that simple.
"This high level of social distancing is vital to keep everyone safe and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”
Dr Cobain was speaking after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15.
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April, though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19.
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates. In recent weeks, there has been either zero or one death reported most days.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Four new Covid deaths recorded in Worcestershire hospitals

THERE have been four new coronavirus related death recorded across Worcestershire 's hospitals .
The latest figures , announced by the NHS today ( November 17 ) , show four newly-recorded coronavirus related deaths in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust , with its total rising from 308 to 312 .
There are no new deaths recorded at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Heath and Care NHS Trust and its total remains at 29 .
The total number of coronavirus related deaths in Worcestershire hospitals therefore has risen to 369 .
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
They do not necessarily include deaths which happened on that day .
In all settings , including hospitals , hospices and at home , there have been at least 573 Covid-19 related deaths in the county .
Across England , a further 330 people who tested positive for Covid-19 have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 36,842 .
Patients were aged between 27 and 99 years old .
All except 11 ( who were aged 30 to 93 years old ) had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death range from October 29 to November 16 , with the majority being on or after November 13 .
The latest data comes after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15 .
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April , though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19 .
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates .
In recent weeks , there has been either zero or one death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital .
The Health and Care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wyre Forest Ward

The latest figures, announced by the NHS today (November 17), show four newly-recorded coronavirus related deaths in the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, with its total rising from 308 to 312.
There are no new deaths recorded at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Heath and Care NHS Trust and its total remains at 29.
The total number of coronavirus related deaths in Worcestershire hospitals therefore has risen to 369.
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced and are accurate as of 5pm the previous day.
They do not necessarily include deaths which happened on that day.
In all settings, including hospitals, hospices and at home, there have been at least 573 Covid-19 related deaths in the county.
Across England, a further 330 people who tested positive for Covid-19 have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 36,842.
Patients were aged between 27 and 99 years old. All except 11 (who were aged 30 to 93 years old) had known underlying health conditions.
Dates of death range from October 29 to November 16, with the majority being on or after November 13.
The latest data comes after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15.
This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April, though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19.
The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates. In recent weeks, there has been either zero or one death reported most days.
The Acute Hospitals Trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The Health and Care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wyre Forest Ward


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-17--Restaurant pledges free meal to homeless with every takeaway

AN Indian restaurant in Belbroughton is adopting the spirit of giving this festive period - by pledging to donate a free meal to the homeless for EVERY takeaway order placed with them .
Five Spice Restaurant , on Stourbridge Road , hope their 'Eat In To Help Others ' initiative encourages other eateries across the country to do something similar .
The eatery will keep track of each takeaway order it receives and will cook up the same number of main meals before delivering them to homeless shelters each weekend for the next three months .
Sadiq Miah , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are aware that in these difficult times , so many people are really struggling and becoming homeless and we just want to try and do our little bit to help .
`` So ‘ Eat In To Help Others ’ is our version of ‘ Eat Out to Help Out ’ .
Our goal is to encourage other restaurants across the UK to do the same .
`` We will be delivering meals to homeless shelters within a 10-mile radius from us every Sunday , so please help us to help others !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ charity quest last weekend , has , like all restaurants across the country , been closed to sit-in customers since early November due to the second coronavirus national lockdown .
However , again like all eateries , the award-winning restaurant is allowed to remain open as a delivery service .
Even though the restaurant will be allowed to reopen fully on December 2 , Five Spice says its offer of free meals for the homeless with every takeaway order placed will continue until February 2021 .
Orders can be placed at www.fivespiceonline.co.uk or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not the first time during the pandemic that Mr Miah and his staff have displayed such generosity .
The Advertiser reported back in March that Five Spice was offering free meals to elderly people who were self-isolating during the first wave of the pandemic .
The restaurant provided a starter , main course and rice to people who were eligible for the offer .

Five Spice Restaurant, on Stourbridge Road, hope their 'Eat In To Help Others' initiative encourages other eateries across the country to do something similar.
The eatery will keep track of each takeaway order it receives and will cook up the same number of main meals before delivering them to homeless shelters each weekend for the next three months.
Sadiq Miah, who manages the restaurant said: "We are aware that in these difficult times, so many people are really struggling and becoming homeless and we just want to try and do our little bit to help.
"So ‘Eat In To Help Others’ is our version of ‘Eat Out to Help Out’. Our goal is to encourage other restaurants across the UK to do the same.
"We will be delivering meals to homeless shelters within a 10-mile radius from us every Sunday, so please help us to help others!”
Five Spice, which began its charity quest last weekend, has, like all restaurants across the country, been closed to sit-in customers since early November due to the second coronavirus national lockdown.
However, again like all eateries, the award-winning restaurant is allowed to remain open as a delivery service.
Even though the restaurant will be allowed to reopen fully on December 2, Five Spice says its offer of free meals for the homeless with every takeaway order placed will continue until February 2021.
Orders can be placed at www.fivespiceonline.co.uk or by calling 01562 730499.
It is not the first time during the pandemic that Mr Miah and his staff have displayed such generosity.
The Advertiser reported back in March that Five Spice was offering free meals to elderly people who were self-isolating during the first wave of the pandemic.
The restaurant provided a starter, main course and rice to people who were eligible for the offer.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Blakedown shops 'lost customers' after hour free parking axed

BUSINESS owners in Blakedown say they have seen a significant drop in footfall since parking charges went up this year .
Shop owners in the village say they have lost customers since June when the district council started charging shoppers at Wyre Forest 's car parks to park for up to an hour .
Joanne Gardiner , postmistress at the village Post Office , said : `` People have started going to Hagley instead because they can park outside and do n't have to pay .
We have lost some customers because of this .
`` A pound might not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're only coming to the shop to get a stamp , you 're not going to pay £1 to park .
`` We have noticed a drop in customers and the pandemic has only made that worse .
It 's not just us either - it ’ s having a significant impact on a lot of the businesses here .
`` The council should be encouraging people to shop local but this just puts people off visiting the village .
`` You just can ’ t compare a village to a town and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s completely different . ''
Jade Bolly , who owns Crumbs cafe , said : `` We used to get some people coming in every day to pick up a newspaper or a pint of milk .
`` It may only be £1 but when you come every day , it does add up .
People ca n't afford it , especially since the pandemic . ''
A petition set up by Churchill and Blakedown Parish Council clerk Angela Preece calling for the one hour free parking offer to be reinstated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signed by nearly 300 people .
Parish council vice-chairman Roger Shade said : `` We 're only a small village .
This is the business centre of Blakedown and that ’ s our only car park .
People are really upset by this . ''
Wyre Forest District Council said it was waiting on a decision from Blakedown Parish Council to take over the village car park and said `` the ball is in the parish council 's court '' .
Councillor John Thomas , cabinet member for operational services , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention only on 9 November and we have not yet seen the full document .
We will send a response when we have received it .
“ The decision to remove free car parking in several car parks across the district was taken nearly a year ago and was implemented in April 2020 , following formal consultation on the car parking order .
Blakedown was covered by this process and treated in exactly the same way as other areas of the district .
“ We are waiting the parish council ’ s decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car park from the district council .
It can then decide the structure of fees and provide a period of free parking if it wishes .
The ball is in the parish council ’ s court .
“ With funding from government , the district council has implemented business rate reliefs of up to 100 per cent and paid grants of thousands of pounds under various mandatory and discretionary schemes to many of the businesses in Blakedown – just as it has done across the district during the Covid-19 pandemic . ''

Shop owners in the village say they have lost customers since June when the district council started charging shoppers at Wyre Forest's car parks to park for up to an hour.
Joanne Gardiner, postmistress at the village Post Office, said: "People have started going to Hagley instead because they can park outside and don't have to pay. We have lost some customers because of this.
Blakedown Parish Council vice-chairman Roger Shade, postmistress Joanne Gardiner and Crumbs cafe owner Jade Bolly
"A pound might not seem like a lot but if you're only coming to the shop to get a stamp, you're not going to pay £1 to park.
"We have noticed a drop in customers and the pandemic has only made that worse. It's not just us either - it’s having a significant impact on a lot of the businesses here.
"The council should be encouraging people to shop local but this just puts people off visiting the village.
"You just can’t compare a village to a town and have the same rules for both, it’s completely different."
Jade Bolly, who owns Crumbs cafe, said: "We used to get some people coming in every day to pick up a newspaper or a pint of milk.
"It may only be £1 but when you come every day, it does add up. People can't afford it, especially since the pandemic."
A petition set up by Churchill and Blakedown Parish Council clerk Angela Preece calling for the one hour free parking offer to be reinstated at the village car park has been signed by nearly 300 people.
Parish council vice-chairman Roger Shade said: "We're only a small village. This is the business centre of Blakedown and that’s our only car park. People are really upset by this."
Wyre Forest District Council said it was waiting on a decision from Blakedown Parish Council to take over the village car park and said "the ball is in the parish council's court".
Councillor John Thomas, cabinet member for operational services, said: “The petition was drawn to our attention only on 9 November and we have not yet seen the full document. We will send a response when we have received it.
Wyre Forest District Council changed its parking charge structure in June
“The decision to remove free car parking in several car parks across the district was taken nearly a year ago and was implemented in April 2020, following formal consultation on the car parking order. Blakedown was covered by this process and treated in exactly the same way as other areas of the district.
“We are waiting the parish council’s decision on whether it wishes to buy the car park from the district council. It can then decide the structure of fees and provide a period of free parking if it wishes. The ball is in the parish council’s court.
“With funding from government, the district council has implemented business rate reliefs of up to 100 per cent and paid grants of thousands of pounds under various mandatory and discretionary schemes to many of the businesses in Blakedown – just as it has done across the district during the Covid-19 pandemic."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Covid 'bubbles' have burst at 70 Worcestershire schools

NEW figures show 8,000 people from 70 different schools in Worcestershire have now been affected by coronavirus .
Worcestershire County Council told the Worcester News yesterday ( Tuesday , November 17 ) that there were 163 'bubbles ' collapsed or partially collapsed in 70 schools , with 8,129 pupils and staff affected .
This is a huge increase on last week 's figures , which stated that as of November 10 there were 70 bubbles/partial bubbles closed in 40 schools with 3,360 pupils and staff affected .
The latest school to be affected by coronavirus is Nunnery Wood Primary School @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff at the school confirmed year groups one and four were closed due to a case and there was also a bubble of office staff self-isolating .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , director for public health for Worcestershire , said : “ A number of individuals from Nunnery Wood Primary School have tested positive for Covid-19 .
“ The cases have been quickly identified , and the school is being supported by Public Health .
Additional measures have been put in place to protect the school and help minimise any further disruption .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they are now also self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and will continue their learning through remote access.
” Dawn Weston , who has a child at the school , was told not to bring them in due to their year group being affected .
Ms Weston said : “ I feel for the schools , they are doing as they are told .
But , at this rate , there will be no kids in school at all.
” The county council has now recommended all parents and carers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the government has said pupils in year 7 and above should wear face masks while moving around school - but not while in their classes .

Worcestershire County Council told the Worcester News yesterday (Tuesday, November 17) that there were 163 'bubbles' collapsed or partially collapsed in 70 schools, with 8,129 pupils and staff affected.
This is a huge increase on last week's figures, which stated that as of November 10 there were 70 bubbles/partial bubbles closed in 40 schools with 3,360 pupils and staff affected.
The latest school to be affected by coronavirus is Nunnery Wood Primary School in Prestwich Avenue.
A member of staff at the school confirmed year groups one and four were closed due to a case and there was also a bubble of office staff self-isolating.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, director for public health for Worcestershire, said: “A number of individuals from Nunnery Wood Primary School have tested positive for Covid-19.
“The cases have been quickly identified, and the school is being supported by Public Health. Additional measures have been put in place to protect the school and help minimise any further disruption.
“Close contacts have been identified and traced, they are now also self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and will continue their learning through remote access.”
Dawn Weston, who has a child at the school, was told not to bring them in due to their year group being affected.
Ms Weston said: “I feel for the schools, they are doing as they are told. But, at this rate, there will be no kids in school at all.”
The county council has now recommended all parents and carers wear masks when on the school run, and the government has said pupils in year 7 and above should wear face masks while moving around school - but not while in their classes.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Alert cards to help police provide extra support to Worcestershire residents with autism

WEST Mercia Police is helping officers provide a more sensitive service to people affected by autism by supporting the rollout of Autism West Midlands ’ Autism Alert Cards .
An Autism Alert Card helps autistic people disclose their autism to others when in difficult or emergency situations .
The card has been produced by Autism West Midlands in collaboration with West Mercia Police , alongside forces in the West Midlands , Staffordshire and Warwickshire and British Transport Police .
The credit-card style card provides basic information about autism , the name of the card carrier and details of one or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual , either as victim or perpetrator , shows a police officer or another member of the emergency services the card , they are indicating that they are legally disabled under the Equality Act and may need extra support , extra time to process information given to them and if attending the police station , the support of an appropriate adult .
Hilary McGlynn , operations manager at Autism West Midlands , said : “ Autism Alert Cards provide peace of mind for autistic young people and adults when out in the community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers communicate more effectively.
” The West Mercia Police Autism Network has secured funding for the first 200 Autism Alert Cards to be issued within the force area .
Sgt Zoey Carter , Chair for West Mercia Police Autism Network and West Mercia Police lead coordinator for the National Police Autism Association ( NPAA ) said : “ I am so excited to help highlight autism within our force , helping to provide better service and support to people within our communities who are on the autism spectrum and their families .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance to our officers and staff on what to do if they encounter an individual with autism , whether they have an alert card or not , setting out how the person may react in challenging situations where the emergency services are involved , what officers and staff can do to help and what actions to avoid escalating the situation.
” The Autism Alert Card is available to people across the West Midlands who are aged over 13 years and have a formal diagnosis of autism .
Visit the Autism West Midlands ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to apply for a card .
A downloadable card for parents and carers of children with autism is also available .

An Autism Alert Card helps autistic people disclose their autism to others when in difficult or emergency situations.
The card has been produced by Autism West Midlands in collaboration with West Mercia Police, alongside forces in the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Warwickshire and British Transport Police.
The credit-card style card provides basic information about autism, the name of the card carrier and details of one or two emergency contacts.
When an autistic individual, either as victim or perpetrator, shows a police officer or another member of the emergency services the card, they are indicating that they are legally disabled under the Equality Act and may need extra support, extra time to process information given to them and if attending the police station, the support of an appropriate adult.
Hilary McGlynn, operations manager at Autism West Midlands, said: “Autism Alert Cards provide peace of mind for autistic young people and adults when out in the community and can help the individual and emergency workers communicate more effectively.”
The West Mercia Police Autism Network has secured funding for the first 200 Autism Alert Cards to be issued within the force area.
Sgt Zoey Carter, Chair for West Mercia Police Autism Network and West Mercia Police lead coordinator for the National Police Autism Association (NPAA) said: “I am so excited to help highlight autism within our force, helping to provide better service and support to people within our communities who are on the autism spectrum and their families.
“Alongside this, we are also issuing guidance to our officers and staff on what to do if they encounter an individual with autism, whether they have an alert card or not, setting out how the person may react in challenging situations where the emergency services are involved, what officers and staff can do to help and what actions to avoid escalating the situation.”
The Autism Alert Card is available to people across the West Midlands who are aged over 13 years and have a formal diagnosis of autism.
Visit the Autism West Midlands' website to find out more information and to apply for a card.
A downloadable card for parents and carers of children with autism is also available.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Toby Carvery and All Bar One branches could close

Local restaurants could close as their parent company looks to close down branches across the country .
Mitchells and Butlers , who own All Bar One and Toby Carvery will axe up to 20 of their pubs and restaurants as the hospitality sector battles coronavirus restrictions .
Mitchells & Butlers ( M & B ) has confirmed the move which is set to put scores of jobs at risk after sales slumped in the face of temporary site closures .
It is understood the company is working with advisers at CBRE to offload the string of sites , which will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not sell them to new owners .
An M & B spokesman said : “ As announced in September , M & B re-opened the vast majority of its estate , approximately 95 % , after the first lockdown ended .
“ The remaining sites have been under review on a case-by-case basis since , taking into account factors such as expected footfall and business layout .
“ We have taken the difficult decision not to reopen some of these sites and are working with leaseholders on next steps.
” Last month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harvester and Miller & Carter chains , started redundancy consultations with staff .
The pub and bar group said it was facing “ significant difficulties ” after restrictions tightened again but did not disclose how many jobs would be impacted by the cuts .
Rivals including Greene King , Young ’ s , Fuller ’ s and City Pub Group have also made redundancies during the pandemic .
All Bar One has bars in Worcester as well as Brindley Place in the Black Country and several in Birimingham .
Toby Carvery has restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as in Worcester and several in Birmingham including Kings Norton , Quinton and Hall Green .

Mitchells and Butlers, who own All Bar One and Toby Carvery will axe up to 20 of their pubs and restaurants as the hospitality sector battles coronavirus restrictions.
Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) has confirmed the move which is set to put scores of jobs at risk after sales slumped in the face of temporary site closures.
It is understood the company is working with advisers at CBRE to offload the string of sites, which will be closed if M&B cannot sell them to new owners.
An M&B spokesman said: “As announced in September, M&B re-opened the vast majority of its estate, approximately 95%, after the first lockdown ended.
“The remaining sites have been under review on a case-by-case basis since, taking into account factors such as expected footfall and business layout.
“We have taken the difficult decision not to reopen some of these sites and are working with leaseholders on next steps.”
Last month, the group, which also runs the Harvester and Miller & Carter chains, started redundancy consultations with staff.
The pub and bar group said it was facing “significant difficulties” after restrictions tightened again but did not disclose how many jobs would be impacted by the cuts.
Rivals including Greene King, Young’s, Fuller’s and City Pub Group have also made redundancies during the pandemic.
All Bar One has bars in Worcester as well as Brindley Place in the Black Country and several in Birimingham.
Toby Carvery has restaurants at Burnt Tree Island,Dudley as well as in Worcester and several in Birmingham including Kings Norton, Quinton and Hall Green.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Kidderminster home manager wins national dementia care award

A CARE home manager in Kidderminster has thanked her team after winning a national accolade at the Dementia Care Awards .
Gill Pratt , manager at Brook Court in Oldnall Road , has been named the best dementia care manager in the UK .
A registered general and mental health nurse with over 30 years ’ experience , Gill took charge of Brook Court in 2017 with plans for a `` whole team '' approach to care , with everyone from the carers to the chefs playing an essential role in residents ' care .
Gill has developed stringent recruitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ dementia champion ’ position to train other team members and help relatives to gain a better understanding of what it ’ s like living with dementia .
Judges were impressed with the dementia-friendly initiatives Gill and the team have implemented at the home , including a dementia choir which performed at the first-ever dementia-friendly concert at Kidderminster Town Hall , and a wishing tree for residents .
She also supported the lifestyle and care teams to spearhead the trial of dementia-related technologies at the home , such as an interactive table .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I ’ m beyond thrilled to have won Best Dementia Care Manager .
`` Ever since I joined Brook Court in 2017 , I ’ ve ensured that every decision is made with a resident-first approach in mind , with a special emphasis on team work and training , so it ’ s great to see this being recognised by the judges .
“ This may be an individual award , but I couldn ’ t have done it without my wonderful team .
Everyone here has an essential role to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams and lifestyle coordinators to the catering teams , maintenance , admin and housekeeping teams .
`` It ’ s an amazing feeling to see all the pieces of the puzzle come together every day , as we strive to offer the highest possible standards of dementia care .
“ I ’ d like to say a big thank you to everyone who contributes to make Brook Court what is – a wonderful place that residents can call home.
” Dave Ashbolt , regional director at Care UK , which runs Brook Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delighted for Gill and the fantastic team she leads at Brook Court .
She thoroughly deserved to be recognised in these national awards .
`` The energy and passion she shows in everything she does ensures residents receive the best possible care , while leading active and fulfilled lives .
Well done Gill !
”

Gill Pratt, manager at Brook Court in Oldnall Road, has been named the best dementia care manager in the UK.
A registered general and mental health nurse with over 30 years’ experience, Gill took charge of Brook Court in 2017 with plans for a "whole team" approach to care, with everyone from the carers to the chefs playing an essential role in residents' care.
Gill has developed stringent recruitment and training processes and set up a ‘dementia champion’ position to train other team members and help relatives to gain a better understanding of what it’s like living with dementia.
Judges were impressed with the dementia-friendly initiatives Gill and the team have implemented at the home, including a dementia choir which performed at the first-ever dementia-friendly concert at Kidderminster Town Hall, and a wishing tree for residents.
She also supported the lifestyle and care teams to spearhead the trial of dementia-related technologies at the home, such as an interactive table.
On receiving the award, Gill said: “I’m beyond thrilled to have won Best Dementia Care Manager.
"Ever since I joined Brook Court in 2017, I’ve ensured that every decision is made with a resident-first approach in mind, with a special emphasis on team work and training, so it’s great to see this being recognised by the judges.
“This may be an individual award, but I couldn’t have done it without my wonderful team. Everyone here has an essential role to play, from the nurses, care teams and lifestyle coordinators to the catering teams, maintenance, admin and housekeeping teams.
"It’s an amazing feeling to see all the pieces of the puzzle come together every day, as we strive to offer the highest possible standards of dementia care.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who contributes to make Brook Court what is – a wonderful place that residents can call home.”
Dave Ashbolt, regional director at Care UK, which runs Brook Court, said: “I’m delighted for Gill and the fantastic team she leads at Brook Court. She thoroughly deserved to be recognised in these national awards.
"The energy and passion she shows in everything she does ensures residents receive the best possible care, while leading active and fulfilled lives. Well done Gill!”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Kidderminster student braves the shave - live!

A KIDDERMINSTER teenager has had a hair raising experience and collected more than £350 for Macmillian Cancer Research .
Macey @ @ @ @ @ at home in Kidderminster and went live on Instagram and Facebook so her family and @ @ @ @ @ was inspired by her friend to do this challenge who also had her head shaved @ @ @ @ @ Macey , aged 17 , said : “ I chose this charity as they provide @ @ @ @ @ for cancer patients , from treatment to counselling .
“ This experience will help me @ @ @ @ @ so much effort and pride in , such as hair , isn ’ t what @ @ @ @ @ is happiness , having that connection , love and trust is what is important in @ @ @ @ @ Level 3 Hospitality , Travel and Tourism at Halesowen College and is a former pupil @ @ @ @ @

Macey Page had her head shaved at home in Kidderminster and went live on Instagram and Facebook so her family and friends could watch.
She was inspired by her friend to do this challenge who also had her head shaved for the same charity.
Macey, aged 17, said: “I chose this charity as they provide a lot of vital help for cancer patients, from treatment to counselling.
“This experience will help me realise the things we take so much effort and pride in, such as hair, isn’t what is truly important. It is happiness, having that connection, love and trust is what is important in life.”
Macey is studying Level 3 Hospitality, Travel and Tourism at Halesowen College and is a former pupil of Wolverley High School.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Stourport men in court over alleged gangland abduction

TWO Stourport men have appeared in court over an alleged gangland kidnap .
Six defendants have all been charged in connection with the alleged abduction and false imprisonment of two men from Stoke-on-Trent .
Cornelius Price , 38 , of Sai Wen , Lower Heath , Stourport , is charged with conspiracy to kidnap .
He is said to have come to the UK from Ireland in the months before the alleged kidnap , which took place in July this year .
Danny Bridges , 39 , also of Sai Wen , Lower Heath , Mark Kavanagh , 32 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lisa Marie Finnerty , 37 , of Ethel Court , Rochdale , Lancashire , are all charged with conspiracy to kidnap and conspiracy to blackmail .
Kavanagh is originally from Drogheda in Ireland and is said to have travelled to Manchester where he met Price .
Quincy Bramble , 30 , of Lighterman Mews , Stepney Green , East London , and Darren McClean , 35 , of Smithy Fen Farm , Cottenham , Cambridgeshire , were both charged with two counts of kidnap and two counts of false imprisonment .
McClean , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McLarthy , faces other charges of driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance .
They were all arrested as part of a major investigation by the West Midlands organised crime unit .
Four of the men appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday via video link , whereas Bramble was brought from HMP Birmingham to appear in person .
Finnerty appeared on video sitting in her solicitor 's office in Stoke , as she is not in custody and is on bail .
No pleas were entered by any defendant .
Judge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the other five defendants and adjourned the arraignment until next month when all six are expected to enter pleas to the charges .
Detectives made two other arrests in connection with the alleged kidnap .
This included a 28-year-old man , from Cottentham , Cambridgshire , who has been arrested on suspicion of kidnap but not yet charged .
And a 37-year-old woman , from Rochdale , Lancashire , was also arrested on suspicion of supplying class A drugs .
Both have been released under investigation while the police probe continue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspects will be joined to the future trial .
All six defendants currently charged will next appear at Wood Green Crown Court on December 17 via video link , except for Bramble who is due to be moved to Pentonville prison in north London and will appear in person .

Six defendants have all been charged in connection with the alleged abduction and false imprisonment of two men from Stoke-on-Trent.
Cornelius Price, 38, of Sai Wen, Lower Heath, Stourport, is charged with conspiracy to kidnap.
He is said to have come to the UK from Ireland in the months before the alleged kidnap, which took place in July this year.
Danny Bridges, 39, also of Sai Wen, Lower Heath, Mark Kavanagh, 32, of Brindley Avenue, Manchester, and Lisa Marie Finnerty, 37, of Ethel Court, Rochdale, Lancashire, are all charged with conspiracy to kidnap and conspiracy to blackmail.
Kavanagh is originally from Drogheda in Ireland and is said to have travelled to Manchester where he met Price.
Quincy Bramble, 30, of Lighterman Mews, Stepney Green, East London, and Darren McClean, 35, of Smithy Fen Farm, Cottenham, Cambridgeshire, were both charged with two counts of kidnap and two counts of false imprisonment.
McClean, who is also known by the surname McLarthy, faces other charges of driving whilst disqualified and driving without insurance.
They were all arrested as part of a major investigation by the West Midlands organised crime unit.
Four of the men appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday via video link, whereas Bramble was brought from HMP Birmingham to appear in person.
Finnerty appeared on video sitting in her solicitor's office in Stoke, as she is not in custody and is on bail.
No pleas were entered by any defendant.
Judge David Aaronberg QC joined Finnerty's case to the other five defendants and adjourned the arraignment until next month when all six are expected to enter pleas to the charges.
Detectives made two other arrests in connection with the alleged kidnap.
This included a 28-year-old man, from Cottentham, Cambridgshire, who has been arrested on suspicion of kidnap but not yet charged.
And a 37-year-old woman, from Rochdale, Lancashire, was also arrested on suspicion of supplying class A drugs.
Both have been released under investigation while the police probe continue. It is not yet known if these suspects will be joined to the future trial.
All six defendants currently charged will next appear at Wood Green Crown Court on December 17 via video link, except for Bramble who is due to be moved to Pentonville prison in north London and will appear in person.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--'Scumbag' thieves smash up family's car in Kidderminster

A FAMILY from Kidderminster has been left `` raging '' after their car was ransacked by thieves overnight .
A dark blue Vauxhall Zafira was parked at the garages in Gilbert Scott Way , off Harold Evers Way , when it was broken into some time between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning .
The thieves had smashed their way into the car through the driver 's side window and damaged the radiator , stole the battery , and taken a Sat Nav and new Nintendo Switch Pokemon game , which had been purchased as a Christmas present , from inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Laura Aston said : `` Last night while me and my family were sleeping some scumbag decided to break into my car .
Thieves smashed a window to break into the car in Kidderminster overnight '' The car is totally ransacked inside - it 's totally turned over .
I 'm absolutely raging .
`` My partner went to take our son to school at 8.20am and noticed straight away the quarter panel window on the driver 's side had been smashed in .
They must have used that entry to get in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the car , they had clearly used a crow bar to try and prize the door open but obviously had no luck .
`` We noticed straight away the car had been ransacked - children 's car chairs turned over , toys all over and things tipped out .
`` We further looked and noticed that they tried to get into the bonnet through the grill , smashed my radiator and took my battery .
`` My petrol cap has been taken also so we believe they have tried or have taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obviously devastated because of the inconvenience and the intrusion of our privacy . ''
Laura said her sons have been `` shook up '' by the break-in and has reported the incident to police .
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101 .

A dark blue Vauxhall Zafira was parked at the garages in Gilbert Scott Way, off Harold Evers Way, when it was broken into some time between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
The thieves had smashed their way into the car through the driver's side window and damaged the radiator, stole the battery, and taken a Sat Nav and new Nintendo Switch Pokemon game, which had been purchased as a Christmas present, from inside the glovebox.
The car's owner Laura Aston said: "Last night while me and my family were sleeping some scumbag decided to break into my car.
Thieves smashed a window to break into the car in Kidderminster overnight
"The car is totally ransacked inside - it's totally turned over. I'm absolutely raging.
"My partner went to take our son to school at 8.20am and noticed straight away the quarter panel window on the driver's side had been smashed in. They must have used that entry to get in.
"On the driver's side of the car, they had clearly used a crow bar to try and prize the door open but obviously had no luck.
"We noticed straight away the car had been ransacked - children's car chairs turned over, toys all over and things tipped out.
"We further looked and noticed that they tried to get into the bonnet through the grill, smashed my radiator and took my battery.
"My petrol cap has been taken also so we believe they have tried or have taken the petrol.
"We’re obviously devastated because of the inconvenience and the intrusion of our privacy."
Laura said her sons have been "shook up" by the break-in and has reported the incident to police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-18--Covid-19: Pfizer vaccine 94 per cent effective in older patients and passes safety checks

Experts have hailed the news that Pfizer ’ s coronavirus vaccine is 94 per cent effective in older patients – who are among the most at-risk from Covid-19 - as 'excellent ' .
We 've put together what you need to know .
When is the Pfizer vaccine due to arrive in the UK ?
The jab , which is due to arrive in the UK before the end of the year , is 95 per cent effective overall and has passed its safety checks , the pharmaceutical giant and its partner BioNTech said .
The vaccine has been tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no safety concerns have been raised , although about two per cent suffered a headache and fatigue .
How many doses of the vaccine have the UK secured ?
The UK has secured 40 million doses of the vaccine , with 10 million due by the end of the year if the jab is approved .
What have experts said ?
Professor Trudie Lang , director of the Global Health Network , Nuffield Department of Medicine , University of Oxford , said : “ Today ’ s update from Pfizer provides further encouraging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against disease that their vaccine is showing from this definitive phase III trial .
“ The detail on achieving 94 per cent protection in the elderly participants in the trial is particularly excellent news .
“ We will need to wait and learn over time how long the protection lasts , and to see whether this vaccine can also prevent transmission – meanwhile , this vaccine does look likely to have a strong role immediately once it is approved in protecting health workers and the vulnerable from disease .
“ Another encouraging detail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases that were considered severe , 90 per cent of these had been vaccinated with a placebo .
“ This ability to mitigate severe disease was a key question and so it is impressive that over 90 per cent efficacy appears to be being maintained across ages and severity of disease .
The safety data also looks very reassuring .
“ This is a remarkable and very reassuring situation that we find ourselves in .
“ To go from identifying a new virus to having several vaccines at the point of applying for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science.
” Stephen Evans , professor of pharmacoepidemiology at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , said : “ This announcement in a press release is very good news indeed .
“ There are now rather more data accrued with , it is said , no serious side effects.
” He added that there is some evidence that in older adults there is also very good efficacy with minimal side effects .
Prof Evans said this was “ very good news ” for this vaccine , and it also makes it more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effective in older adults .
He added : “ While we await a full paper , the FDA ( the US Food and Drug Administration ) will have access to much more data and details than in a published paper .
“ The head of the Biologics Centre at the FDA , responsible for vaccines , has assured us that no politically appointed people are present for the assessment of any vaccines – they are briefed but do not attend the relevant meetings .
“ If the data are also submitted to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect both agencies to conduct a very careful evaluation and we can rely on their conclusions .
Relying on a press release is not enough .
”

We've put together what you need to know.
When is the Pfizer vaccine due to arrive in the UK?
The jab, which is due to arrive in the UK before the end of the year, is 95 per cent effective overall and has passed its safety checks, the pharmaceutical giant and its partner BioNTech said.
The vaccine has been tested on 43,500 people in six countries and no safety concerns have been raised, although about two per cent suffered a headache and fatigue.
How many doses of the vaccine have the UK secured?
The UK has secured 40 million doses of the vaccine, with 10 million due by the end of the year if the jab is approved.
What have experts said?
Professor Trudie Lang, director of the Global Health Network, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, said: “Today’s update from Pfizer provides further encouraging news and more detail on the protection against disease that their vaccine is showing from this definitive phase III trial.
“The detail on achieving 94 per cent protection in the elderly participants in the trial is particularly excellent news.
“We will need to wait and learn over time how long the protection lasts, and to see whether this vaccine can also prevent transmission – meanwhile, this vaccine does look likely to have a strong role immediately once it is approved in protecting health workers and the vulnerable from disease.
“Another encouraging detail from this update was that of those cases that were considered severe, 90 per cent of these had been vaccinated with a placebo.
“This ability to mitigate severe disease was a key question and so it is impressive that over 90 per cent efficacy appears to be being maintained across ages and severity of disease. The safety data also looks very reassuring.
“This is a remarkable and very reassuring situation that we find ourselves in.
“To go from identifying a new virus to having several vaccines at the point of applying for regulatory approval is an incredible milestone for science.”
Stephen Evans, professor of pharmacoepidemiology at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: “This announcement in a press release is very good news indeed.
“There are now rather more data accrued with, it is said, no serious side effects.”
He added that there is some evidence that in older adults there is also very good efficacy with minimal side effects.
Prof Evans said this was “very good news” for this vaccine, and it also makes it more likely that other vaccines will be reasonably effective in older adults.
He added: “While we await a full paper, the FDA (the US Food and Drug Administration) will have access to much more data and details than in a published paper.
“The head of the Biologics Centre at the FDA, responsible for vaccines, has assured us that no politically appointed people are present for the assessment of any vaccines – they are briefed but do not attend the relevant meetings.
“If the data are also submitted to the European Medicines Agency, then we can expect both agencies to conduct a very careful evaluation and we can rely on their conclusions. Relying on a press release is not enough.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Wyre Forest coronavirus cases stabilising - but 'don't be complacent'

POSITIVE coronavirus cases are beginning to stabilise in Worcestershire , latest figures suggest , but Public Health bosses have warned residents not to be complacent as Christmas approaches .
For the first time in several weeks , Wyre Forest saw its Covid-19 infection rate fall compared to the previous week in data published on Tuesday and Wednesday .
In the latest Public Health figures , covering the seven days up to November 14 , the district had an infection rate of 273.5 , compared to 274.5 in the week up to November 7 .
Worcester also saw its infection rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as did Malvern , from 130.9 to 115.6 , and Wychavon , from 176.2 to 156.8 .
However , the rate in Redditch increased , from 330.7 to 353 , the highest infection rate in the county , and Bromsgrove 's also rose from 213.3 to 293.3 .
Dr Kathryn Cobain , Worcestershire 's director for Public Health , said it was `` good news '' to see positive case numbers stabilising , but said the figures were still far higher than a few weeks ago .
She said : `` At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see our positive case numbers stabilising .
This does not mean they are going down , but the rate of increase is starting to stay consistent .
`` This is good news , we welcome any signs that the measures in place are starting to work .
Your hard work is beginning to pay off and I thank you for that .
But we should not be complacent now .
`` We are still seeing far higher numbers of Covid-19 cases than we did a few weeks ago .
We are still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there remains a long way to go yet .
`` Community transmission rates tell us that the virus is with us wherever we go .
We all need to take great care to protect ourselves and everyone around us . ''
Worcestershire Public Health is now waiting on guidelines from the government as to what the restrictions will be over the festive period .
Dr Cobain added : `` We are now just weeks away from Christmas and the holiday season .
I know many of you will be wondering if you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loved ones .
`` We are awaiting national guidance from government which will guide us all on what is going to be possible during the festive season .
`` In the meantime , I know you will be wanting to prepare for the holidays and I ’ d ask you to stay local as you shop , use online shopping and support our local businesses and services , many of whom can deliver to your home .
`` Please try to plan ahead , look for ways to connect online and try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with .
“ The best way to get the Worcestershire Covid-19 cases down , is to follow all these guidelines and measures .
`` Please keep doing all you are doing , it is working .
Continue to follow all the advice , stick to the rules .
Let ’ s pull together and look forward to a happy and healthy 2021 .
”

For the first time in several weeks, Wyre Forest saw its Covid-19 infection rate fall compared to the previous week in data published on Tuesday and Wednesday.
In the latest Public Health figures, covering the seven days up to November 14, the district had an infection rate of 273.5, compared to 274.5 in the week up to November 7.
Worcester also saw its infection rate fall, from 266.7 to 229.2, as did Malvern, from 130.9 to 115.6, and Wychavon, from 176.2 to 156.8.
However, the rate in Redditch increased, from 330.7 to 353, the highest infection rate in the county, and Bromsgrove's also rose from 213.3 to 293.3.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, Worcestershire's director for Public Health, said it was "good news" to see positive case numbers stabilising, but said the figures were still far higher than a few weeks ago.
She said: "At the moment in Worcestershire, we are starting to see our positive case numbers stabilising. This does not mean they are going down, but the rate of increase is starting to stay consistent.
"This is good news, we welcome any signs that the measures in place are starting to work. Your hard work is beginning to pay off and I thank you for that. But we should not be complacent now.
"We are still seeing far higher numbers of Covid-19 cases than we did a few weeks ago. We are still seeing widespread community transmission, and unfortunately there remains a long way to go yet.
"Community transmission rates tell us that the virus is with us wherever we go. We all need to take great care to protect ourselves and everyone around us."
Worcestershire Public Health is now waiting on guidelines from the government as to what the restrictions will be over the festive period.
Dr Cobain added: "We are now just weeks away from Christmas and the holiday season. I know many of you will be wondering if you will be able to spend precious time with loved ones.
"We are awaiting national guidance from government which will guide us all on what is going to be possible during the festive season.
"In the meantime, I know you will be wanting to prepare for the holidays and I’d ask you to stay local as you shop, use online shopping and support our local businesses and services, many of whom can deliver to your home.
"Please try to plan ahead, look for ways to connect online and try to minimise the number of people you mix with.
“The best way to get the Worcestershire Covid-19 cases down, is to follow all these guidelines and measures.
"Please keep doing all you are doing, it is working. Continue to follow all the advice, stick to the rules. Let’s pull together and look forward to a happy and healthy 2021.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Huge response in first week of Shuttle Christmas Gift Appeal

A STAGGERING 200 presents have already been donated to our festive appeal , ensuring some of Wyre Forest 's most vulnerable children have a gift to open on Christmas day .
We 've had a huge response since launching the 16th annual Shuttle Gift Appeal , run in partnership with charity Home-Start Wyre Forest , and generous readers have already dropped off over 200 toys for local families in need .
Kidderminster charity The Odell Centre is among those to show support for the appeal .
Staff at The Odell Centre , which organises activities for adults with learning disabilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Secret Santa for their team of 18 , but this year leader Kate Sallis suggested they buy a gift for a local child instead .
Kate said : “ It makes you realise how lucky some children are getting lots of Christmas presents where there are many children out there who get very little in the way of presents .
`` This year more than ever , with the devastating impact of coronavirus on family life , we should be thinking of others at Christmas time.
” Staff from Home-Start will distribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support before Christmas , making life a little easier for families facing financial or mental health difficulties .
Home-Start Wyre Forest manager Belinda Darby said : “ Home-Start have been overwhelmed with the response to the appeal in the first week since it launched , with large numbers of donations coming in already through Midcounties Co-operative stores , individuals and Franche Community Church .
`` We are really touched to have the support of staff at a fellow charity and their donations will make a real difference to children we are helping .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for everyone and we want to make sure each child has a gift to open on the big day .
Thank you to all at Odell for helping us in this way.
” Gifts can be donated until Monday , December 14 at Midcounties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road , Kidderminster , the Swan Centre management suite , Franche Community Church , St Ambrose Church , St George 's Church , Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster , and the Home-Start office in New Road .
Home-Start staff and volunteers will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store them in a Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families .
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped .
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal , visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896 .

We've had a huge response since launching the 16th annual Shuttle Gift Appeal, run in partnership with charity Home-Start Wyre Forest, and generous readers have already dropped off over 200 toys for local families in need.
Kidderminster charity The Odell Centre is among those to show support for the appeal.
Staff at The Odell Centre, which organises activities for adults with learning disabilities and mental health issues, usually hold a Secret Santa for their team of 18, but this year leader Kate Sallis suggested they buy a gift for a local child instead.
Home-Start co-ordinator Kelly Hurst, volunteer co-ordinator Joanne Shinton and Sue Spicer from charity partner Midcounties Co-operative
Kate said: “It makes you realise how lucky some children are getting lots of Christmas presents where there are many children out there who get very little in the way of presents.
"This year more than ever, with the devastating impact of coronavirus on family life, we should be thinking of others at Christmas time.”
Staff from Home-Start will distribute gifts to all of the children they support before Christmas, making life a little easier for families facing financial or mental health difficulties.
Home-Start Wyre Forest manager Belinda Darby said: “Home-Start have been overwhelmed with the response to the appeal in the first week since it launched, with large numbers of donations coming in already through Midcounties Co-operative stores, individuals and Franche Community Church.
"We are really touched to have the support of staff at a fellow charity and their donations will make a real difference to children we are helping.
"This year has been particularly tough for everyone and we want to make sure each child has a gift to open on the big day. Thank you to all at Odell for helping us in this way.”
Gifts can be donated until Monday, December 14 at Midcounties Co-op stores in Stourport and Franche Road, Kidderminster, the Swan Centre management suite, Franche Community Church, St Ambrose Church, St George's Church, Tesco branches in Stourport and Kidderminster, and the Home-Start office in New Road.
Home-Start staff and volunteers will then wrap and pack the gifts and store them in a Covid-secure storage room for 72 hours before delivering them to families.
Presents can be of any value but must be new and unwrapped.
For more information about Home-Start and the Shuttle Gift Appeal, visit homestartwyreforest.org.uk or call 01562 825896.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Stourport neighbours battle more plans for 'eyesore' phone mast

ANGERED residents on the edge of Stourport are fighting yet another planning application to erect a phone mast in their street .
Neighbours in Dunley Road battled plans in 2012 for a 15-metre-high mast on a grass verge outside their homes and the proposal was ultimately refused .
Now , a new planning application has been submitted for a 20-metre-high EE mast in the same spot , prompting further complaints from villagers that the beautiful countryside surrounding their street will be blocked from view .
Dunley Road resident Robert Hughes said : `` This is a picturesque part of Stourport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so we have had two planning applications for telecoms masts in this green area .
Dunley Road residents say the 20-metre-high mast would be a blot on the landscape '' We succeeded in getting the last two applications thrown out - mainly due to the fact that this is a picturesque area of town and people want to keep it looking nice .
`` Then suddenly last week , we had a letter through the door saying another application has been submitted , this time by EE , for an even bigger mast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this one is going to be 20 metres .
Last time it was going to have two boxes around it , this time it 's eight boxes .
`` A lot of people are very angry about this .
`` It 's not just a case of people not wanting this mast on their doorsteps .
People in Stourport as well want to keep this area as a green and picturesque entrance and exit to the town .
This mast would be an eyesore - it would completely ruin that . ''
Fellow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to put this mast in the middle of this green space in front of our homes .
`` When I first moved here , I used to look out of my house and see deer in the fields , now there 's sheep .
It 's beautiful .
Residents say the phone mast would ruin the picturesque entrance to Stourport '' If this planning application goes ahead , it will completely block my view of the countryside .
All I 'll see from my house is this mast . ''
More than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wyre Forest District Council , most of which argue the mast would have a detrimental effect on the landscape , while some suggest it could be damaging to neighbouring residents ' health .
A spokesman for MBNL , which works on the infrastructure for EE ’ s mast sites , said : “ MBNL and our partners undertake thorough due diligence when selecting our sites .
When determining a location , finding the balance between delivering the service and capacity which customers want and expect , which is particularly prevalent in the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expectations are never easy .
`` We will continue to work closely with the local planning authority and residents and will give all comments and feedback careful consideration .
Our aim is for the community to enjoy high-quality and reliable mobile connectivity and the benefits that it brings .
”

Neighbours in Dunley Road battled plans in 2012 for a 15-metre-high mast on a grass verge outside their homes and the proposal was ultimately refused.
Now, a new planning application has been submitted for a 20-metre-high EE mast in the same spot, prompting further complaints from villagers that the beautiful countryside surrounding their street will be blocked from view.
Dunley Road resident Robert Hughes said: "This is a picturesque part of Stourport and over the last eight years or so we have had two planning applications for telecoms masts in this green area.
Dunley Road residents say the 20-metre-high mast would be a blot on the landscape
"We succeeded in getting the last two applications thrown out - mainly due to the fact that this is a picturesque area of town and people want to keep it looking nice.
"Then suddenly last week, we had a letter through the door saying another application has been submitted, this time by EE, for an even bigger mast.
"Rather than 15 metres, this one is going to be 20 metres. Last time it was going to have two boxes around it, this time it's eight boxes.
"A lot of people are very angry about this.
"It's not just a case of people not wanting this mast on their doorsteps. People in Stourport as well want to keep this area as a green and picturesque entrance and exit to the town. This mast would be an eyesore - it would completely ruin that."
Fellow resident Shirley Jones said: "They want to put this mast in the middle of this green space in front of our homes.
"When I first moved here, I used to look out of my house and see deer in the fields, now there's sheep. It's beautiful.
Residents say the phone mast would ruin the picturesque entrance to Stourport
"If this planning application goes ahead, it will completely block my view of the countryside. All I'll see from my house is this mast."
More than 100 objections have already been lodged to Wyre Forest District Council, most of which argue the mast would have a detrimental effect on the landscape, while some suggest it could be damaging to neighbouring residents' health.
A spokesman for MBNL, which works on the infrastructure for EE’s mast sites, said: “MBNL and our partners undertake thorough due diligence when selecting our sites. When determining a location, finding the balance between delivering the service and capacity which customers want and expect, which is particularly prevalent in the current climate, alongside planning regulations and aesthetic expectations are never easy.
"We will continue to work closely with the local planning authority and residents and will give all comments and feedback careful consideration. Our aim is for the community to enjoy high-quality and reliable mobile connectivity and the benefits that it brings.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--999 chance to kickstart your career

999 chance to kickstart your career

LOCAL youngsters are being offered the chance to ‘ kick start ’ their careers with a job placement helping to make sure the area ’ s ambulances are ready to answer 999 calls .
But anyone interested needs to move fast , as the deadline for applications is Monday .
Thirty Kickstart job placements are being offered as ‘ vehicle preparation assistants ’ by the West Midlands Ambulance Service .
The Kickstart scheme is a government initiative which provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ambulance hubs to help with the cleaning and restocking the fleet of front-line emergency ambulances .
The service says the role is a key function and the job placements are for 25 hours a week for six months .
Carla Beechey , Head of Human Resources , said : “ This will provide young people in the local area to our hubs , who are struggling to get a job , with a fantastic opportunity to get on the career ladder .
The youngsters will support the service ’ s established ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambulances are clean , in good working order and stocked ready to respond to the next 999 call .
“ This is an exciting and very rewarding opportunity.
” To apply speak to your Department of Work and Pensions advisor .

But anyone interested needs to move fast, as the deadline for applications is Monday.
Thirty Kickstart job placements are being offered as ‘vehicle preparation assistants’ by the West Midlands Ambulance Service.
The Kickstart scheme is a government initiative which provides funding to employers to create job placements for 16 to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment.
The placements involve young people working on ambulance hubs to help with the cleaning and restocking the fleet of front-line emergency ambulances.
The service says the role is a key function and the job placements are for 25 hours a week for six months.
Carla Beechey, Head of Human Resources, said: “This will provide young people in the local area to our hubs, who are struggling to get a job, with a fantastic opportunity to get on the career ladder.
The youngsters will support the service’s established ‘Make Ready’ teams to ensure front-line ambulances are clean, in good working order and stocked ready to respond to the next 999 call.
“This is an exciting and very rewarding opportunity.”
To apply speak to your Department of Work and Pensions advisor.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-20--Driver 'ran off' after crash in Kidderminster

POLICE are dealing with a crash in Kidderminster after one of the drivers fled the scene .
Emergency services are @ @ @ @ @ the crash near to the left hand turn by Crossley Retail Park .
The collision @ @ @ @ @ say one of the drivers ran off after the crash .
The post read : @ @ @ @ @ Junction .
We are dealing with an RTC involving two cars , where one male @ @ @ @ @ the left hand turn exiting Crossley Retail Park .
`` The road remains open but @ @ @ @ @ scene .
`` Luckily no one was injured . ''

Emergency services are still at the scene of the crash near to the left hand turn by Crossley Retail Park.
The collision involved two cars and police say one of the drivers ran off after the crash.
Kidderminster Safer Neighbourhood Team posted a photograph showing a police blocking one lane at 11.40am.
The post read: "RTC | Crossley Retail Junction. We are dealing with an RTC involving two cars, where one male driver ran off, in the left hand turn exiting Crossley Retail Park.
"The road remains open but please be mindful of the scene.
"Luckily no one was injured."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-20--Plans for 129 homes at old Carpets of Worth factory in Stourport

PLANS have been submitted to build more than 100 new homes on the old Carpets of Worth site in Stourport .
Barratt Homes wants to develop 129 homes , including 13 affordable properties , on the former carpet factory site in Severn Road and has submitted a full planning application to Wyre Forest District Council .
The site , which sits on the southern section of the former Bond Worth carpet factory , has been vacant for many years and the majority of the buildings on the land have already been demolished .
The northern part of the old Bond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a petrol station .
Access to the new housing development would be taken from Severn Road .
Barratt Homes says the plans will help to boost the supply of affordable housing in Wyre Forest .
Richard Miller , land director for Barratt Homes West Midlands , said : “ Following an online public consultation exercise which ran for four weeks during August and September , we submitted a planning application for 129 homes to Wyre Forest District Council in October .
`` If approved , the scheme will deliver much needed housing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs and economic spend locally .
`` The development proposals are focussed on providing predominantly two and three bedroom homes with a small number of four bedroom homes .
”

Barratt Homes wants to develop 129 homes, including 13 affordable properties, on the former carpet factory site in Severn Road and has submitted a full planning application to Wyre Forest District Council.
The site, which sits on the southern section of the former Bond Worth carpet factory, has been vacant for many years and the majority of the buildings on the land have already been demolished.
The northern part of the old Bond Worth site now houses the Tesco superstore and a petrol station.
Access to the new housing development would be taken from Severn Road.
Barratt Homes says the plans will help to boost the supply of affordable housing in Wyre Forest.
Richard Miller, land director for Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: “Following an online public consultation exercise which ran for four weeks during August and September, we submitted a planning application for 129 homes to Wyre Forest District Council in October.
"If approved, the scheme will deliver much needed housing on a redundant brownfield site, creating jobs and economic spend locally.
"The development proposals are focussed on providing predominantly two and three bedroom homes with a small number of four bedroom homes.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-20--Outrage as second defib stolen from phone box in 4 months

VOLUNTEERS who funded a lifesaving piece of equipment to a Wyre Forest village say they are `` beyond angry '' after the community 's defibrillator was stolen for the second time in four months .
The Shuttle reported in July when heartless thieves stole the defib from a phone box in Shatterford , forcing Arley Parish Council to pay to replace the equipment .
But just four months after the theft , villagers have been left outraged once again after crooks wrenched open the new safe cabinet and made off with the equipment inside .
Alveley Community First Responders , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Facebook on Monday : `` We are saddened and beyond angry that for the second time in six months , the public access defibrillator located in the red telephone box in Shatterford near Upper Arley has been stolen .
`` The lock on the new DefibSafe cabinet has been forced open over the weekend and the iPAD AED defibrillator purchased by Upper Arley Parish Council to replace the previously stolen unit we donated has been taken .
`` This is a valuable lifesaving piece of equipment now out of service and unavailable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needing it in the event of a cardiac arrest . ''
Mike Nixon , from the group , said : `` We 've had lots of messages from people basically saying what a bunch of scumbags these thieves are to steal a device that 's there to potentially save somebody 's life .
The defibrillator was ripped out of the phone box some time over the weekend '' Until that equipment is replaced , it 's no longer available to anyone who needs it . ''
West Midlands Ambulance Service has since offered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unit .
A spokesperson said : “ It ’ s very disappointing to hear that the public access defibrillator located in Shatterford has been stolen for the second time in six months .
“ This is beyond upsetting .
Chances of survival increase by 68 per cent if a defibrillator and effective CPR is performed on a cardiac arrest patient .
`` This crime has once again resulted in a lifesaving piece of equipment being out of service and unavailable to the trust and anyone needing it in the event of a cardiac @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be donating a second-hand automated external defibrillator to the village of Shatterford.
” Anyone with information on the theft is urged to call West Mercia Police on 101 , quoting crime number SD-40115-20-2222-00 .

The Shuttle reported in July when heartless thieves stole the defib from a phone box in Shatterford, forcing Arley Parish Council to pay to replace the equipment.
But just four months after the theft, villagers have been left outraged once again after crooks wrenched open the new safe cabinet and made off with the equipment inside.
Alveley Community First Responders, which donated the first defib, posted on Facebook on Monday: "We are saddened and beyond angry that for the second time in six months, the public access defibrillator located in the red telephone box in Shatterford near Upper Arley has been stolen.
"The lock on the new DefibSafe cabinet has been forced open over the weekend and the iPAD AED defibrillator purchased by Upper Arley Parish Council to replace the previously stolen unit we donated has been taken.
"This is a valuable lifesaving piece of equipment now out of service and unavailable to West Midlands Ambulance Service for anyone needing it in the event of a cardiac arrest."
Mike Nixon, from the group, said: "We've had lots of messages from people basically saying what a bunch of scumbags these thieves are to steal a device that's there to potentially save somebody's life.
The defibrillator was ripped out of the phone box some time over the weekend
"Until that equipment is replaced, it's no longer available to anyone who needs it."
West Midlands Ambulance Service has since offered to replace the defibrillator with a second-hand unit.
A spokesperson said: “It’s very disappointing to hear that the public access defibrillator located in Shatterford has been stolen for the second time in six months.
“This is beyond upsetting. Chances of survival increase by 68 per cent if a defibrillator and effective CPR is performed on a cardiac arrest patient.
"This crime has once again resulted in a lifesaving piece of equipment being out of service and unavailable to the trust and anyone needing it in the event of a cardiac arrest.”
“West Midlands Ambulance Service will be donating a second-hand automated external defibrillator to the village of Shatterford.”
Anyone with information on the theft is urged to call West Mercia Police on 101, quoting crime number SD-40115-20-2222-00.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Santa's grotto cancelled at West Midland Safari Park

WEST Midland Safari Park has made the decision to cancel its popular Christmas grotto due to Covid-19 restrictions .
The annual Santa Safari was due to take place in December , featuring an indoor grotto with a chance for children to meet Father Christmas , however the park has announced the event will not go ahead due to safety concerns .
In a post on Facebook , West Midland Safari Park said : `` It ’ s with a heavy heart that we let you know our popular Santa Safari event will not take place this year , as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have carefully explored all possible options to run our indoor grotto , but the safety of our guests and staff has to remain our top priority .
`` We understand this will be really disappointing to all those who support us , but we feel it best to concentrate on working on next year ’ s event to provide a magical Christmas experience which is as safe and special as can be .
`` We would like to reassure all those guests with existing bookings for December , that our team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to process refunds .
`` We remain hopeful that we can still celebrate the festive season in some capacity when we reopen in December and look forward to seeing you soon . ''

The annual Santa Safari was due to take place in December, featuring an indoor grotto with a chance for children to meet Father Christmas, however the park has announced the event will not go ahead due to safety concerns.
In a post on Facebook, West Midland Safari Park said: "It’s with a heavy heart that we let you know our popular Santa Safari event will not take place this year, as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
"We have carefully explored all possible options to run our indoor grotto, but the safety of our guests and staff has to remain our top priority.
"We understand this will be really disappointing to all those who support us, but we feel it best to concentrate on working on next year’s event to provide a magical Christmas experience which is as safe and special as can be.
"We would like to reassure all those guests with existing bookings for December, that our team will contact you this week via email to process refunds.
"We remain hopeful that we can still celebrate the festive season in some capacity when we reopen in December and look forward to seeing you soon."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Clothing chains Peacocks and Jaeger fall into administration with 4,700 jobs at risk

Clothing chains Peacocks and Jaeger have been put into administration after bosses failed to find a buyer for the troubled businesses .
The move has put thousands of jobs at risk - including hundreds of stores across the country .
Here 's everything we know so far .
When were the two companies put into administration ?
The two companies were put into administration on Thursday afternoon ( November 19 ) after a two-week deadline to find a buyer passed .
Earlier this month , a spokesperson for owner EWM Group said they had been speaking to several potential buyers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business .
How many stores and staff does Jaeger and Peacocks have ?
Jaeger runs 76 stores and concessions and has 347 employees while Cardiff-based Peacocks has 4,369 staff across 423 stores .
What have administrators said ?
Tony Wright , joint administrator of the business from FRP Advisory , said : “ Jaeger and Peacocks are attractive brands that have suffered the well-known challenges that many retailers face at present .
“ We are in advanced discussions with a number of parties and working hard to secure a future for both businesses.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ no redundancies have been announced yet and no stores have been closed .

The move has put thousands of jobs at risk - including hundreds of stores across the country.
Here's everything we know so far.
When were the two companies put into administration?
The two companies were put into administration on Thursday afternoon (November 19) after a two-week deadline to find a buyer passed.
Earlier this month, a spokesperson for owner EWM Group said they had been speaking to several potential buyers who were interested in parts of the business.
How many stores and staff does Jaeger and Peacocks have?
Jaeger runs 76 stores and concessions and has 347 employees while Cardiff-based Peacocks has 4,369 staff across 423 stores.
What have administrators said?
Tony Wright, joint administrator of the business from FRP Advisory, said: “Jaeger and Peacocks are attractive brands that have suffered the well-known challenges that many retailers face at present.
“We are in advanced discussions with a number of parties and working hard to secure a future for both businesses.”
At the time of writing, no redundancies have been announced yet and no stores have been closed.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Why Wyre Forest residents are being warned about buying dogs in private sales

A WARNING has been issued over the dangers of buying dogs in private sales , after owners have been left with pets with health problems .
With the availability of dogs from rescue centres at an all-time low , buyers are stumping up thousands of pounds to buy ‘ designer ’ cross-breeds from private sellers , only to find their new pooch is sick , hasn ’ t been micro-chipped or given the correct vaccinations – if any at all .
Worcestershire 's Senior Dog Warden Pip Singleton is urging people to be patient and wait for rescue centres to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care when buying a dog from a private home .
She said : “ Of course I would advocate ‘ Adopt , Don ’ t Shop ’ every-time and encourage people to give a loving home to an unwanted dog at a rescue centre , where they would have received the right treatment , vaccines and be microchipped .
“ Especially when now , I am hearing stories from people who have spent , sometimes , thousands of pounds on a cross breed which , when they get home turns out to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money .
“ But I also understand people want the ‘ latest trend ’ in dogs and may think they are guaranteed quality as they are spending lots of money .
I would urge them to take extra care before handing over the cash , ask for veterinary certificates , check micro-chip records and most of all do research into the breed to ensure it is the right dog for you .
“ Better still , wait for the rescue centres to become populated again – and then you can be guaranteed your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assessment already.
” For more information on becoming a dog owner or advice on the correct care for your dog , contact the Dog Wardens on 01527 822799 .

With the availability of dogs from rescue centres at an all-time low, buyers are stumping up thousands of pounds to buy ‘designer’ cross-breeds from private sellers, only to find their new pooch is sick, hasn’t been micro-chipped or given the correct vaccinations – if any at all.
Worcestershire's Senior Dog Warden Pip Singleton is urging people to be patient and wait for rescue centres to become populated again or else take extra care when buying a dog from a private home.
She said: “Of course I would advocate ‘Adopt, Don’t Shop’ every-time and encourage people to give a loving home to an unwanted dog at a rescue centre, where they would have received the right treatment, vaccines and be microchipped.
“Especially when now, I am hearing stories from people who have spent, sometimes, thousands of pounds on a cross breed which, when they get home turns out to be poorly and ends up costing even more money.
“But I also understand people want the ‘latest trend’ in dogs and may think they are guaranteed quality as they are spending lots of money. I would urge them to take extra care before handing over the cash, ask for veterinary certificates, check micro-chip records and most of all do research into the breed to ensure it is the right dog for you.
“Better still, wait for the rescue centres to become populated again – and then you can be guaranteed your future pet will have gone through appropriate assessment already.”
For more information on becoming a dog owner or advice on the correct care for your dog, contact the Dog Wardens on 01905 822799.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--Tesco urgently recall meat products over Listeria contamination fears

Tesco have issued an urgent recall on a range of meat products over fears they may be contaminated with Listeria .
We 've put together everything you need to know about the recall .
Tesco have recalled its 16 Spicy Chorizo Slices 80g because the product contains Listeria monocytogenes .
What are the symptoms caused by Listeria ?
According to the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) : `` Symptoms caused by this organism can be similar to flu and include high temperature , muscle ache or pain , chills , feeling or being sick and diarrhoea .
`` Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including those over 65 years of age , pregnant women and their unborn babies , babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems . ''
What have Tesco said ?
In a statement , the supermarket chain said : `` We have been made aware of detection Listeria monocytogenes in one batch code of Tesco 16 Spicy Chorizo Slices 80g and we have decided to recall this product .
`` Please do not consume this product but return for any inconvenience caused .
`` If you require further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on : UK - 0800 505 555 or ROI - 1850 744 844 . ''

We've put together everything you need to know about the recall.
What have Tesco recalled?
Tesco have recalled its 16 Spicy Chorizo Slices 80g because the product contains Listeria monocytogenes.
Which products are affected?
The product details are:
Name: Tesco 16 Spicy Chorizo Slices
Pack size: 80g
Use by: December 19, 2020
Picture: Tesco
What are the symptoms caused by Listeria?
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA): "Symptoms caused by this organism can be similar to flu and include high temperature, muscle ache or pain, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea.
"Some people are more vulnerable to listeria infections, including those over 65 years of age, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems."
What have Tesco said?
In a statement, the supermarket chain said: "We have been made aware of detection Listeria monocytogenes in one batch code of Tesco 16 Spicy Chorizo Slices 80g and we have decided to recall this product.
"Please do not consume this product but return for any inconvenience caused.
"If you require further details, please contact Customer Services directly on: UK - 0800 505 555 or ROI - 1850 744 844."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-19--MP Mark Garnier speaks out in support of Kidderminster energy park plan

PLANNING applications are an issue fraught with controversy .
From the application to build a small extension , to proposals to build thousands of homes in Wyre Forest ’ s green belt , all seem to gather objections of one sort or another .
Some are quite appalling – the plans to dig a 110-acre quarry between Cookley and Wolverley is one such proposal .
Others seem to attract controversy where there is little .
One such proposal is to build a power generation plant in the industrial park on the Stourport Road .
This will service adjacent sites , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the old forge buildings .
Readers will remember this site was turned into a waste recycling centre a few years ago that caught fire .
Happily , it now employs around 100 people making parts for cars , but can not reach its full potential due to electricity supply and the inability of the national grid to deliver enough power for the machines .
The answer is to generate power locally , and proposals have been submitted to build a low impact power station that will merge seamlessly with the local buildings and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be able to deliver hundreds of jobs .
Moreover , it diverts waste from landfill to power the furnaces , and so , under extremely strict regulations regarding emissions , will improve the planet , generate locally needed power and deliver locally needed jobs and prosperity .
Its impact will be limited .
Not only will it be largely invisible compared to the local factories , it will have far fewer vehicles delivering the waste for the furnace than was the case with the recycling centre .
Indeed , the new plant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waste locally , so the environmental impact will be as low as possible .
Of course , there is an argument that by recycling waste into energy , it encourages waste to be produced and I would far rather see renewable energy than that derived from waste .
But we have a huge problem right now and I would rather see this waste turned into local jobs than buried in someone ’ s field – maybe even something as offensive as the quarry in Cookley !
For as long as there is waste @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way of getting rid of it .
Recycling and re-use is incredibly tightly regulated , meaning that some emissions from incinerators can be cleaner than the air they go into .

Some are quite appalling – the plans to dig a 110-acre quarry between Cookley and Wolverley is one such proposal. Others seem to attract controversy where there is little.
One such proposal is to build a power generation plant in the industrial park on the Stourport Road. This will service adjacent sites, including the Liberty car parts manufacturer in the old forge buildings.
Readers will remember this site was turned into a waste recycling centre a few years ago that caught fire. Happily, it now employs around 100 people making parts for cars, but cannot reach its full potential due to electricity supply and the inability of the national grid to deliver enough power for the machines.
The answer is to generate power locally, and proposals have been submitted to build a low impact power station that will merge seamlessly with the local buildings and provide enough electricity to the local businesses to be able to deliver hundreds of jobs.
Moreover, it diverts waste from landfill to power the furnaces, and so, under extremely strict regulations regarding emissions, will improve the planet, generate locally needed power and deliver locally needed jobs and prosperity.
Its impact will be limited. Not only will it be largely invisible compared to the local factories, it will have far fewer vehicles delivering the waste for the furnace than was the case with the recycling centre.
Indeed, the new plant’s intention is to source the waste locally, so the environmental impact will be as low as possible.
Of course, there is an argument that by recycling waste into energy, it encourages waste to be produced and I would far rather see renewable energy than that derived from waste.
But we have a huge problem right now and I would rather see this waste turned into local jobs than buried in someone’s field – maybe even something as offensive as the quarry in Cookley!
For as long as there is waste, there will need to be a way of getting rid of it. Recycling and re-use is incredibly tightly regulated, meaning that some emissions from incinerators can be cleaner than the air they go into.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-20--Homes evacuated after workmen 'find grenades' in Bewdley

BOMB squads were called to an address in Bewdley after grenades were reportedly discovered by workmen .
People were evacuated @ @ @ @ @ experts investigated the scene in Kidderminster Road .
West Mercia Police closed the road from @ @ @ @ @ Lane to the junction with Queensway and people were warned to avoid the area .
@ @ @ @ @ after 3pm .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said earlier this afternoon : `` @ @ @ @ @ and a number of properties evacuated as a precaution whilst Explosive Ordnance Disposal ( EOD @ @ @ @ @ of grenades being found in an address in Kidderminster Road , Bewdley .
`` There @ @ @ @ @ area .
Please take care and pay attention to the road closures . ''

People were evacuated from their homes while explosive experts investigated the scene in Kidderminster Road.
West Mercia Police closed the road from the junction with Grey Green Lane to the junction with Queensway and people were warned to avoid the area.
The road was reopened just after 3pm.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said earlier this afternoon: "A cordon is in place and a number of properties evacuated as a precaution whilst Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operators respond to reports of grenades being found in an address in Kidderminster Road, Bewdley.
"There are road closures in the area. Please take care and pay attention to the road closures."
Updates to follow.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-11-20--Where coronavirus vaccines will be rolled out in Worcestershire

TWO venues in Worcestershire have been earmarked as mass coronavirus vaccination centres – and the jabs could be rolled out as early as next month .
Documents seen by the Shuttle 's sister paper the Bromsgrove Advertiser say the former Artrix Theatre in Bromsgrove and St Peter 's Church in Worcester have been pegged as sites where the jabs can be delivered .
The documents say St Peter 's could be ready to begin vaccinations in just ten days , on Monday , November 30 , with a starting date a fortnight later - Monday , December 14 - for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been empty since April , when the theatre was forced into insolvency , partly by the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the arts industry .
The vaccinations would be delivered by NHS staff and that care home staff and residents plus workers and patients in primary care facilities , such as hospitals , would be prioritised .
The priority order then follows a sliding scale based on age and condition , beginning with those aged over 80 , then over 75 , over 70 and over 65 .
From there , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , such as those with underlying health conditions , under the age of 65 and then moderate-risk adults under 65 .
Vaccinations will then be made available for those under 60 , under 55 and under 50 on a sliding scale before the programme is rolled out to the rest of the population .
The Government has placed orders for millions of vaccines that are currently in development , in order to halt the second wave of the pandemic .
That includes 100 million doses of a jab being manufactured by the University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 million doses of a Pfizer vaccine and five million of a Moderna vaccination .
Professor Stephen Powis , England ’ s national medical director , said on Wednesday that the NHS was working hard to ensure it was prepared to deliver the vaccines as soon as they are fully approved .
And while the traditional route of using GPs to deliver jabs will not be completely abandoned , there is a need to deliver them quickly on a mass scale , hence the requirement for vaccination centres .
Hereford and Worcestershire Clinical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the planning of health care services in the region - has been approached for comment .

Documents seen by the Shuttle's sister paper the Bromsgrove Advertiser say the former Artrix Theatre in Bromsgrove and St Peter's Church in Worcester have been pegged as sites where the jabs can be delivered.
The documents say St Peter's could be ready to begin vaccinations in just ten days, on Monday, November 30, with a starting date a fortnight later - Monday, December 14 - for the Bromsgrove site.
The Artrix has been empty since April, when the theatre was forced into insolvency, partly by the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the arts industry.
The vaccinations would be delivered by NHS staff and that care home staff and residents plus workers and patients in primary care facilities, such as hospitals, would be prioritised.
The priority order then follows a sliding scale based on age and condition, beginning with those aged over 80, then over 75, over 70 and over 65.
From there, the next priority will be high-risk adults, such as those with underlying health conditions, under the age of 65 and then moderate-risk adults under 65.
Vaccinations will then be made available for those under 60, under 55 and under 50 on a sliding scale before the programme is rolled out to the rest of the population.
The Government has placed orders for millions of vaccines that are currently in development, in order to halt the second wave of the pandemic.
That includes 100 million doses of a jab being manufactured by the University of Oxford and Astra Zeneca, plus 40 million doses of a Pfizer vaccine and five million of a Moderna vaccination.
Professor Stephen Powis, England’s national medical director, said on Wednesday that the NHS was working hard to ensure it was prepared to deliver the vaccines as soon as they are fully approved.
And while the traditional route of using GPs to deliver jabs will not be completely abandoned, there is a need to deliver them quickly on a mass scale, hence the requirement for vaccination centres.
Hereford and Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group - the organisation responsible for the planning of health care services in the region - has been approached for comment.