CompletelyDroitwich Spa
Pre-Preparatory & Nursery
Saturday 27th
September
10.00am - 11.30am pupils aged 2 - 7
Preparatory
Saturday 20th
September pupils aged 7 - 13
Senior
Saturday 11th
October 13+ & 6th Form
Open Mornings
RGS Worcester
Senior School 11 - 18 years
Saturday 20 September 2025
Sixth Form 16 - 18 years
Saturday 11 October 2025
RGS Dodderhill
Senior Girls School 11 - 16 years
Nursery/Prep School 2 - 11 years
Saturday 27 September 2025
RGS The Grange
Nursery/Prep School 2 - 11 years
Saturday 4 October 2025
Pupils develop exceptional levels academically and personally, which creates a highly focused learning atmosphere and supports pupils’ success in their learning.
ISI Inspection Report 2025
Autumn is certainly on its way, with nights drawing in and mornings staying darker for longer. It always seems slightly strange that at this time of year we kick off the new school year!
Whether you are just starting out on your educational journey, are halfway through or are heading off to university, the Completely Droitwich Spa team would like to wish you all a great academic year.
Staying with education, students at Droitwich Spa High School joined in a major academic study looking at the impact of vaping, turn to page 12 to read their findings. The school has also developed a sensory garden, which offers students a calming, nature-rich space. Head to page 16 to find out more.
Wychavon has invested £4 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in a wide range of projects to benefit the district’s residents. Turn to page 22 to see how Droitwich has benefited.
On page 23 you’ll find a timely reminder to check voter registration details to avoid losing your opportunity to vote on decisions that can make a real difference to you and your loved ones.
Finally, we would like to share our sincere condolences following the catastrophic fire at the Raven Hotel on August 10th. Let us hope that all the relevant authorities and organisations involved can bring the listed parts of this iconic building back to life.
Remember folks, keep it local or lose it!
Very best wishes
Michele Ford
A message from our MP Nigel Huddleston
The recent fire at the Raven Hotel was an incredibly sad and emotional moment for Droitwich. To see such a historic and well-loved building engulfed in flames was truly heartbreaking.
I know that for many local residents the Raven holds special memories – from weddings and family celebrations to simply being a familiar and much-loved landmark in the heart of our town. At the time of writing, the situation remains under assessment, and further updates may follow after this article goes to print.
The Raven is more than just a building – it is a part of Droitwich’s identity with a history stretching back hundreds of years. That history deserves to be respected and, where possible, preserved.
In the days following the fire, I was in contact with Wychavon council leaders, the emergency services and Historic England, who will continue to offer expert advice from a conservation and heritage point of view.
Assessments are being made to help us understand the condition of what remains of the building and what might be possible to rebuild. Any future redevelopment or restoration will need to involve a number of stakeholders – including the property owners, insurance providers, local and district councils, heritage experts and, most importantly, the local community.
While it is too early to say exactly what the future holds for the Raven, I am committed to playing whatever role is appropriate in the process. I will
do everything I can to ensure that some element of this iconic building – and the memories it holds – can be preserved. In the meantime, I want to offer my sincere thanks to the emergency services for their quick response and tireless efforts in tackling the fire and protecting local residents. Their courage and professionalism in such challenging circumstances deserves our full gratitude.
The Raven has long stood as a symbol of Droitwich’s heritage. While this is undoubtedly a difficult time, I hope that, together, we can find a way forward that honours the past and serves the future of our town.
While the fire was a difficult moment for the town, it is worth remembering that 2025 has also brought a great deal to celebrate in Droitwich. The inaugural Rik Mayall Comedy Festival has now been nominated for a tourism award, recognising its cultural impact and community spirit. Droitwich Spa FC – the Saltmen – secured promotion to a higher league and competed in the FA Cup for the first time in the club’s history. And much-loved community events like Salt Fest and the Food & Drink Festival have drawn large numbers of visitors, brought people together and given our local economy a welcome boost.
These achievements show the strength, creativity, and resilience of Droitwich.
Lineview visit
A DVENTURE
b e g i n s h e re!
Top results again at Bromsgrove School
Following on from Bromsgrove School’s exceptional IB results at the start of the summer holidays, Bromsgrove’s A level and BTEC students have swept the board with another superb set of results.
This year, 223 Upper Sixth leavers achieved 60% A*/A grades (or equivalent), with 83% A*/B (or equivalent).
In BTEC, sixty-four students achieved 20 Distinction*s and a further 36 Distinctions, meaning that 88% of grades were at least a Distinction.
EPQ results were also impressive, with just under twothirds of the sixty-one entries gaining at least an A grade. Of the seventeen students who took the new Core Maths qualification alongside their A levels, thirteen achieved one of the top two grades.
Fifty-three IB Diploma students performed superbly, with an average score of 39.81 points – placing Bromsgrove as the second-highest co-educational IB school in the UK. Thirtynine students scored at least 40 points; of these, six achieved 44 points and five attained the maximum 45 points – a result achieved by fewer than 1% of students worldwide. On the
UCAS tariff, the average IB student achieved more than the equivalent of A*A*A*A* at A Level.
Some leavers have secured prestigious degree-level apprenticeships or will begin employment, while the majority are heading to some of the best universities. Here, too, the picture is very encouraging: at the time of writing, some 200 students have gained entry to their first-choice university.
Headmaster, Mr Michael Punt commented: “We warmly congratulate our leavers, and the staff who have supported them, on an exceptional set of results. Some have spent most of their lives at Bromsgrove, while others joined more recently; some have lived locally while others have travelled from across the world to be part of our School family, but all will be greatly missed. We wish them every success and happiness in the years ahead and hope they will always keep in touch. They leave us with bright futures ahead of them.”
A new chapter for King’s Worcester
King’s Worcester has welcomed Ben Charles as its new head of foundation, bringing a wealth of experience and a ‘play hard, work hard’ mantra.
What attracted you to the role of head of foundation at King’s Worcester?
King’s is a wonderful school with a rich heritage, a strong sense of community, and a clear ambition for the future. I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to lead a foundation that encompasses three excellent schools, each with its own identity but united by a shared ethos. The values at King’s align closely with my own beliefs about education - that it should be a community where everyone works hard, plays hard and looks after each other. What are you most looking forward to at King’s?
I’m really excited about getting involved, meeting the pupils, parents and staff and understanding what life here is all about. I’m going to be very much in listening mode to start with so I can really understand King’s from the people who live and breathe it.
What three words would your family and friends use to describe you?
I’d like to think they’d say I’m loyal, kind, and fun – though I suspect my children might say I’m more annoying, and boring! Perhaps it depends on whether I’ve made them do their homework and music practice.
What are your favourite pieces of music and why?
As a former director of music, this is an impossible question - but there are three that have had a profound impact on me. Bach’s St Matthew Passion has been part of my life since childhood. Billy Joel’s Piano Man is a song my wife and I have always
shared. And Mahler’s Fifth Symphony never fails to stir something visceral. For me, music is the art form that most deeply connects us to our humanity. Which rugby team do you support?
Leicester Tigers. I’m Leicester born and bred, so supporting the Tigers is in my DNA. Rugby has always played a major part in my life and the values of sport – teamwork, respect, resilience –have shaped how I approach leadership and life.
Ben joins the King’s Worcester Foundation from King’s Rochester, where he was principal and Head of the senior school since 2019. Before that, he was Senior Deputy Head at Portsmouth Grammar School and Director of Music at Chigwell School and then Millfield School.
To discover more about King’s Worcester and meet Ben Charles, join them for their open mornings on Saturday September 27th for King’s Senior and Sixth Form and King’s St Alban’s Prep, or Friday, October 3rd for King’s Hawford Prep. Register at ksw.org.uk/flourish
Ever FORWARD Ever FLOURISHING
Spa students study vaping impact on the human body
S tudents from Droitwich Spa High School have joined in a leading academic study looking at the impact of vaping on human health.
Pupils took part in a seminar investigating what has become a hot topic facing young people with researchers taking a fresh, evidence-based approach.
Rather than relying on scare tactics or oversimplified messaging, the session set out to educate students on what science currently knows - and doesn’t know - about vaping.
Specifically, the research is a long-term investigation into the effects of vaping on blood vessel health with the school session sparking curiosity, critical thinking and meaningful discussion.
Students were presented with data showing a rise in vaping, particularly among young people who might otherwise never have smoked. This led to questions about whether vaping could act as a gateway to smoking or other substance use - questions that science has yet to provide a definitive answer to.
The session was organised as part of Wychavon’s campaign to raise awareness of the impacts of vaping among young people and led by Dr Antonis Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou, reader in sports and exercise science at Leeds Beckett University.
It offered a rare glimpse into real-world scientific research with further seminars in schools in the district planned.
Students were introduced to the study, led by Professor Markos Klonizakis, professor of vascular and clinical physiology at Sheffield Hallam University, alongside Dr Aamer Sandoo, senior
The study is using advanced techniques such as ultrasound imaging to examine how vaping affects blood flow and artery function.
While the study is still ongoing, early expectations suggest that non-smokers who take up vaping may experience a decline in vascular health and those who both smoke and vape are expected to have the poorest outcomes.
Students who attended the session will now take on the role of peer educators, sharing what they’ve learned with classmates in the hope of preventing others from starting - or encouraging those who already vape to stop.
Jacob Daniels, a year 12 student, said: “The vaping workshop was very insightful and interactive. It’s clear that, from a scientific perspective, vaping has no clear physical benefits. It will be interesting to see how the data shown to us develops over time.”
lecturer in sport and exercise science at Bangor University and Dr Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou.
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Raising awareness of vital Herbert Protocol
Wychavon is proudly supporting an important initiative focused on raising awareness for the Herbert Protocol, a significant national scheme dedicated to protecting individuals living with dementia or Alzheimer’s who may go missing.
A heartfelt event was held in Droitwich Spa last month, uniting local partners who are deeply committed to addressing a vital concern in the community.
The protocol serves as an invaluable resource for caregivers, enabling them to compile essential information, including medications and frequently visited locations. By equipping families with this information to share with the police, efforts can be accelerated to locate missing persons, reducing the emotional strain on families during such a challenging time.
Councillor Rick Deller is championing Droitwich Spa to become a dementia-friendly town for personal reasons. His dad was diagnosed with dementia 14 years ago and he has seen him go from a man who could build and design kitchens from scrap wood, to now being unable to find his way out of a bathroom. He understands more than most the need for the community to come together to support the Herbert Protocol.
Organised by Councillor Deller, this event showcased a collaborative effort that brought together key community organisations, including West Mercia Police, Deputy Mayor Sue Brazier,
Age UK Wyvern, Platform Housing, Droitwich Spa CVS, Worcestershire Association for Carers, The Salvation Army, the King George Meeting Centre, and many more local groups.
With a staggering 944,000 individuals currently living with dementia in the UK, and with 70% likely to go missing at least once in their lives, the Herbert Protocol is more crucial than ever for families and caregivers. Every year, around 40,000 people are reported missing for the first time in the UK, highlighting the urgency and importance of initiatives like this.
Councillor Deller said: “As a community, we have a shared responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our loved ones. My father went missing a few years ago, and the Herbert Protocol will offer peace of mind to me and my family if we ever need to alert the police again. By coming together as a group, we can create a meaningful change in our community and ensure that everyone has the support they need during times of crisis.”
Anyone interested in learning how to protect their loved ones can visit: www.wychavon.gov. uk/community-and-living/health-and-wellbeing/ herbert-protocol
Never stop doing what you love
Rashwood is a loving care
Exceptional Care in a Beautiful
Setting
At Rashwood, we provide compassionate nursing and residential care tailored to your needs. Our dedicated team ensures comfort, quality, and expert support in a warm and welcoming environment. Set within stunning grounds in Droitwich, rooms, each with beautiful garden or provide the highest standard of care with enriching activities and excellent amenities. Experience the care you deserve. Call us today on 01527 861258 to arrange a visit.
Sensory garden lifeline for struggling students
Anewly developed sensory garden at Droitwich Spa High School is offering students a calming, nature-rich space to support their mental health and re-engage with learning.
Designed and built with input from students themselves, the garden is the latest addition to The Link - a dedicated facility created to support young people struggling with anxiety and school avoidance.
The garden features a range of sensory elements including swinging and egg chairs, a tranquil water feature, and large pots of herbs to stimulate the senses. A geodome, positioned among the trees provides a year-round retreat, complete with twinkling lights for darker days.
The space also encourages biodiversity, with bird feeders, bird bath and plans for a wildflower garden to bloom over the coming year. Students helped build the garden furniture and chose the features, creating a space that is both beautiful and therapeutic.
Funding for the garden came from a Wychavon Social Mobility Grant and a Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health grant.
Kim Jones, the school’s co-ordinator for vulnerable learners who has led The Link project, expressed her thanks to co-headteachers Gemma Lloyd Davies and Claire Moss for their support for the project.
She said: “Like many schools since the pandemic, we’ve seen anxiety and school avoidance reach unprecedented levels. We knew we had to reengage students struggling with their mental health
and create an intervention that offered a clear, supportive pathway back into education.”
The garden complements The Link, a pioneering initiative launched in response to the growing mental health challenges faced by students following the pandemic. Housed in a repurposed caretaker’s bungalow, The Link offers a nurturing, alternative environment with three colour-themed zones that maintain a sense of school identity.
Through consultation and observation, the school identified key barriers to attendance, including sensory overload, fear of academic failure, and separation anxiety. The Link addresses these by offering a smaller, more supportive setting.
This year, The Link supported 20 students, including seven in year 11. All sat exams in English, maths and science, with some also completing qualifications in art, child development, and health and social care.
To apply for a Wychavon Social Mobility Grant, visit: www.wychavon.gov.uk/community-and-living/ social-mobility . To apply for a Worcestershire County Council Public Health Grant go to www. worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/healthand-wellbeing/healthy-children-and-young-people/ wellbeing-grants-educational-settings
Reg’s September gardening tips
We’re delighted to bring you top tips from Reg Moule, Worcestershire’s voice of gardening, in association with Rowberry’s Nursery in Chaddesley Corbett.
Early September
This is a good time to move established evergreen shrubs, and the traditional time to start planting new trees and shrubs of all kinds. Use some mychorrizal fungi when planting. As the summer bedding plants begin to fade replace them with cheerful autumn bedding varieties to brighten up the dull winter days ahead. Make-up winter hanging baskets using pansies, bright evergreens and winter flowering heathers.
Prepared hyacinths should be planted and put in a cool, dark place by the end of this month if you want them in bloom by Christmas. Watch out for aphid attacks on winter flowering pansies. Also check the foliage for leaf spot diseases.
Mid September
Sow some hardy annuals outdoors in flowering positions in sheltered spots.
Now is the time to get busy with planting spring flowering bulbs. If you like to prioritize your buying, the things to go for now are autumn flowering crocus, Madonna lilies, Colchicums, Fritillarias and prepared hyacinths.
Scarify the lawn to remove “thatch” and feed with Autumn lawn dressing.
This is a good time to sow or turf a new lawn and repair bare patches. You could also over-seed all or part of the lawn to thicken the sward. Grease band the trunks of fruit trees to trap the wingless female Winter moths as they climb them to lay eggs.
Strawberries should be planted by the end of this month for cropping next year.
Plant garlic now in a sunny free draining spot. They like a long growing season in order to make the best cloves.
Sow some autumn lettuce under cloches or for planting in a cold greenhouse.
Plant out spring cabbage plants 15cm (6in) apart in rows 30cm (1ft) apart
Sow green manure crops on vacant areas of the veg. garden for digging in next spring.
Plant Japanese onion sets to get a lovely crop of flavoursome onions ready from June
Spray Michaelmas daisies with a fungicide or plant invigorator to prevent mildew.
Late September
Pick green tomatoes for chutney or ripening in a brown paper bag in a drawer indoors. Don’t put them on a windowsill in the sun this dehydrates them. Reduce watering and ventilation in the greenhouse as temperatures drop.
Lift, divide and re-plant early spring flowering herbaceous perennials.
Bring in any tender shrubby plants taken outside for summer displays e.g. Brugmansia.
Cut back marginal plants and net your pond to keep out autumn leaves.
Dry some herb foliage for winter use, or chop and freeze them in ice cubes.
Prune summer fruiting raspberries by removing old, fruited canes.
Take cuttings from roses, preferably using shoots that have flowered. Trim them to 23cm (9in) long. Bring in any houseplants that have been outside “on holiday” for the summer.
By Reg Moule - Rowberry’s Nursery, Chaddesley Corbett
Cabbage and lettuce plants
Reg Moule
Winter Heather Hyacinths
Reg’s October gardening tips
Early October
New lawns can still be seeded (soon) or turfed this month.
This is a good time to plant trees, shrubs, roses, fruit trees and soft fruit plants.
Clear summer bedding from tubs and borders and replace it with plants which give colour through to spring. Winter Pansies, Violas, Wallflowers, Ornamental Cabbage etc. Adding some colourful evergreen plants and spring flowering bulbs is also good.
Osteospermums, Arctotis, Argyranthemums and other tender perennials should be lifted from the borders, potted and brought inside for the winter. Spring flowering bulbs of all kinds can be planted outdoors this month.
Mid October
Rake up fallen leaves both for general hygiene and to use to make leaf mould – a valuable soil conditioner or a peat substitute in home made potting compost recipes.
Continue planting spring flowering bedding like Wallflowers, Brompton Stocks, Forget-Me- Nots and Sweet Williams.
Allow the first frosts to blacken off Dahlia foliage before lifting and drying the tubers ready for winter storage. If you have light soil consider leaving the tubers in the soil over winter, perhaps with a protective mulch of garden compost or bark over the root area.
Gladioli corms should be lifted, dried and stored in a frost-free place until spring.
Lift and divide large clumps of early flowering perennials. Late flowers can be left until spring. Mow lawns less frequently and treat them with an autumn lawn fertiliser.
Lawns also benefit from a good wire raking to clear “thatch” and spiking with a hollow tined aerator.
Hardwood cuttings can be taken from now onwards but the sooner the better.
Tidy up pond plants, removing the foliage from water lilies before they decompose in the water.
Prune blackcurrants, blackberries and hybrid berries e.g. loganberries, tayberries.
Watering and ventilation need careful attention in greenhouses in order to avoid fungal diseases.
Sow winter lettuce under cloches and frames.
Plant lily bulbs in pots in a cold greenhouse to get early flowers.
Sow sweet peas in pots in a cold frame. Pick apples and pears. Remember to remove any mummified fruits as these harbour brown rot disease.
As houseplants slow down for the winter they will require less watering and feeding.
If you wish to move any deciduous shrubs do the job now.
Late October
Tall deciduous shrubs – e.g. roses, Lavatera and Buddleia can be cut back by one third in order to prevent wind rock.
Dead foliage on any herbaceous plants can be removed between now and next Spring.
Sow broad bean Aquadulce Claudia in mild areas to crop next June.
Plant Paperwhite Narcissi now for flowering in mid-December. Keep the planted containers in a light warm place.
By Reg Moule - Rowberry’s Nursery, Chaddesley Corbett
Reg Moule
Buddleia
Seed lawns
Shrub planting
Westwood Open Space
Apple crumble, apple cake, stewed apples or cider. What would your preference be for the abundance of apples this time of year?
I do admit to being a bit of a crumble fan myself, especially with custard and maybe some blackberries? Our county became the heart of England’s apple, pear, plum and cherry growing during the latter part of the 19th century and we have a huge variety of fruit to choose from.
Orchards are part of our seasonal festivities with the very traditional Wassail, the purpose of which is to encourage the spirits into ensuring a good harvest the following season. It takes place on the twelfth night after Christmas and involves a visit to a nearby orchard for singing, dancing, general merrymaking and hanging bread in the trees! A more recent celebration, and one suitable for this season, is Apple Day on 21st October. This started in the 1990s to show how we can have good fruit to eat and at the same time protect bees, butterflies, bats and birds.
Local orchards can be amazing spaces for nature if managed in a wildlife-friendly way, avoiding pesticides and aggressive mowing regimes. One community orchard in Droitwich, managed by Graham Redfern from Wychavon DC, recently received some maintenance from the local community to help the fruit trees to grow and flourish. Westwood Open Space orchard is small but beautifully formed. It houses apple, pear and plum trees in three rows inside a fenced space that many people walk past but maybe don’t appreciate.
In June a group of very enthusiastic and hardworking local residents met with me, Connor and Anna from the Trust, Wade from Worcestershire County Council and Karen from Wychavon DC to tend to the trees. We removed weeds growing directly below the trees to reduce competition for water, gave them a quick prune where needed and watered them well. This was
followed by a second day with children, volunteers and staff (Nikki and Sam) from Moving Forward youth group to add bark chip around each tree and to water them all again – it was in the middle of that really dry spell.
Whilst we were working in the orchard we discussed the possibility of creating even more biodiversity by planting spring bulbs to create a longer period for pollinators to access pollen. So keep an eye out for posters at Westwood Open Space for a community day of bulb planting. And maybe even a little Wassail in January?
by Julie Grainger, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust
Designed and delivered
Situated in one of Worcestershire’s picturesque villages, this stunning kitchen project is a prime example of the bespoke installation offered by AK Fitted Interiors: a local kitchen specialist, with over 40 years’ experience, known for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and complete project management service.
Designed and installed as part of their home extension, the kitchen blends the timeless charm of a period property with a fresh, modern aesthetic. The homeowners wanted a kitchen that honoured the character of their home while offering contemporary comfort, and the result is a beautifully balanced space that does just that.
At the heart of the project is a painted in-frame kitchen, crafted in Yorkshire and tailored to the family’s needs. Every cabinet has been custom-built, reflecting the quality and longevity you’d expect from traditional joinery but with a clean-lined finish that feels right at home in today’s interiors.
The open-plan layout includes a generous island, painted in charcoal, with seating for eight. It is perfect for everyday family life and casual entertaining as well as offering a relaxed dining area framed by full height glazing that opens onto the garden.
Key features include a breakfast pantry, Everhot cooker, Quooker CUBE sparkling water tap and wine fridge. In addition, AK designed a dedicated utility room to keep household cleaning equipment discreetly out of sight while offering additional storage and a secondary sink area, all in matching painted cabinetry.
AK Fitted Interiors handled the full kitchen journey, from the initial design consultation to the final fitting. Their experienced team worked closely with the family to refine the layout, choose finishes, and coordinate with the wider extension works. Communication was key throughout, ensuring every detail was delivered exactly to plan.
The homeowners are thrilled with the result, describing the finished kitchen as “a modern take on a traditional kitchen,” brought to life with craftsmanship and care. “We’re so pleased with our new kitchen from AK,” they shared. “The quality is outstanding, and we honestly can’t believe we get to enjoy the beautiful family kitchen we’ve always dreamed of. Thank you!”
For AK Fitted Interiors, this is what it’s all about: delivering not just luxury kitchens, but complete peace of mind. As a trusted, independent specialist, they offer a full-service experience that takes care of everything, so clients can simply enjoy the process and, of course, the end result.
To see more of AK’s bespoke kitchen projects or to arrange a consultation, visit their two storey showroom in Bromsgrove at Saxon Business Park, Hanbury Road, Stoke Prior, B60 4AD, call 01527 835924 or visit www.akfittedinteriors.co.uk
Funeral directors hit Europe’s roads for charity rally
Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Studley based funeral directors, James Giles & Sons Ltd, will be participating in the 2025 Pavestone Rally, one of the construction industry’s biggest charity fundraising initiatives.
Director James Giles, his daughter Kerri, son Damien and colleague Andy Edwards will form one of at least 30 rally teams who will buy their own rally car for less than £2,000 and then undertake an exhilarating four-day journey through northern Europe to raise money for five charities. Each team must raise a minimum of £2,000 for charity and is encouraged to wear fancy dress to match a theme which is set for every day of the event.
Covering Germany, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands, this year’s rally is raising funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust, the Variety Children’s Charity, CRASH and Lighthouse Construction Charities. Each team also gets to nominate a charity of their own choice with the James Giles team choosing to support Huntington’s Disease Association.
James Giles said: “As family owned and run funeral directors, we are committed to honouring the values
of kindness and compassion in everything we do and to supporting people from all walks of life.
“When we first heard about the rally from a former participant, we knew we wanted to be involved. The rally gives us the chance to make a real difference to some deserving charities as well as to enjoy what promises to be an enjoyable four days taking part in an event which has been described as a mixture of Wacky Races and Top Gear!”
Now in its fifth year, the 2025 Pavestone Rally has set a fundraising target of £250,000, exceeding the £217,000 raised last year. To support the James Giles & Sons Ltd team, please visit: https:// sponsorme.charitiestrust.org/event/32d18f85568b-4204-99ac-b7e6c29d5f73 or go to our Facebook ‘James Giles & Sons Ltd’ or our Instagram @jamesgiles_sons to follow our journey and to also see our pinned posts to donate through there too.
£4 million investment boosts town centres and rural businesses
Wychavon has invested almost £4 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), delivering real improvements to local high streets, community spaces and rural businesses.
Key projects, funded through Wychavon’s share of the UKSPF Fund, include lighting upgrades in parks, shop front improvements, new public benches, street art and feasibility work for the Lido.
The work has been led by Wychavon’s Place Boards in Droitwich Spa, Evesham, and Pershore, which are central to the council’s town centre investment prospectus. These boards bring local voices together to shape regeneration and economic growth.
The funding has also helped deliver meaningful placemaking. Small changes like new benches or lighting help people feel safer, stay out longer, and connect with others – boosting wellbeing and tackling isolation.
Through the Wychavon Rural Fund, improvements have also been made to visitor attractions, village halls, sports facilities, and local businesses.
Councillor Emma Stokes, executive board member for resources, investment and innovation, said: “This funding has been transformative for our rural communities. We’ve not only supported local enterprise, but we’ve also backed vital community facilities and made lasting improvements that will serve residents for years to come.”
Although future funding is smaller at £1.2 million, Wychavon will continue to invest in skills, business support, community projects, and further town centre improvements.
Planned projects include £270,000 for business support, £185,000 to address skills gaps and expand training and apprenticeship opportunities, and £150,000 for initiatives that build stronger communities. A further £150,000 will be directed towards projects that break down barriers for young people trying to access employment or education.
The Place Boards will receive a further £120,000 to continue their work revitalising town centres, building on the success of the investment prospectus. An additional £140,000 will back festivals, tourism, marketing, and events – drawing more visitors to the district and supporting its unique identity.
Cllr Morris with the Pershore bench
Wychavon residents urged to check voter registration details
Residents across Wychavon are being urged to check their electoral registration details or risk losing their chance to vote on decisions that affect them.
Wychavon is taking part in the annual canvass to keep the electoral register up to date, to identify who risks losing their voice at elections, and to encourage them to register before it’s too late.
Councillor Richard Morris, leader of the council at Wychavon, said: “Keep an eye out for important updates from Wychavon on email and social media. The annual canvass is our way of making sure that the information on the electoral register for every address is accurate and up to date. To make sure you don’t lose your say at upcoming elections, follow the instructions sent to you.
“If you’re not currently registered, your name will not appear in the messages we send. If you want to register, the easiest way is online at www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote .”
Recent home movers in particular are urged to check their details. Electoral Commission research has found that recent home movers are less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a long time. In Britain, 92% of those who have lived in their home for 16 years will be registered, compared with 36% of people who have lived at an address for less than a year.
Jackie Killeen, director of electoral administration and regulation, said: “It’s important that everyone who is eligible to vote is able to do so. We urge
people to check for updates from their local council on this year’s canvass. The council may contact residents by post or email.
“If you are not registered to vote, make sure you provide the necessary information to your local council when asked and register to vote online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote .”
Information on registering to vote is available on the Electoral Commission website.
Residents with questions about their registration status can contact their local council’s electoral services team on 01386 565437 or email them at: elections@wychavon.gov.uk
Spa’s toilets get a loo-lift
Answering nature’s call has just become a more pleasant experience for Droitwich residents thanks to Wychavon’s latest investment.
The toilets in St Andrews Square have been given a loo-lift to completely modernise the block.
Inside, the toilets have been totally retiled and fitted with new sink units, doors, and state-of-theart Dyson Airblade tap-dryers. New skylights have also been added, letting in more natural light to brighten the experience.
Outside, the block has been decorated and modernised. Previous facilities have been restored or maintained, including water-saving Propelair toilets, solar panels, nappy changing facilities, and
a Changing Places toilet to support people with a range of disabilities.
The refurbishment marks the end of a major investment programme by Wychavon, which has seen all but one of its 11 toilet blocks across the district modernised, rebuilt or extended.
Councillor Beverley Hardman, Wychavon’s executive board member for environment, said: “We believe in investing in public toilets, and this is what we continue to do. The toilets are free for all to use and kept to a high standard, which is why they are award-winning.”
Discover the master antioxidant you’ve never heard of
September is here, and with the football and rugby seasons underway, we all need to be aware of taking care of our bodies.
I want to talk about something that might just be the ultimate VIP of your body’s health crew, glutathione. It is a naturally occurring antioxidant produced by your own body. In fact, scientists and health experts often call it the “master antioxidant” and for good reason. Blood levels of glutathione are considered one of the most accurate indicators of your overall health.
Glutathione wears many hats. It helps fight free radicals (those nasty little molecules that damage cells), keeps your vitamin C and E levels functioning properly, supports cell repair, collagen production, and even assists in wound healing. Oh, and it plays a huge role in keeping your immune system strong and kicking.
It is also essential for detoxifying the body. It helps flush out heavy metals like mercury, which we can be exposed to from food, water, and pollution. Think of it like a personal internal cleaning crew that never sleeps until it runs out of energy, that is.
And unfortunately, that happens more often than we’d like. Stress, poor diet, pollution, lack of sleep, basically all the things we deal with daily, can deplete our glutathione levels. That’s when things start to go downhill. Low glutathione has been linked to aging, chronic disease, and a weakened immune system.
Naturally, people want to boost their levels. Many people turn to L-glutathione supplements or amino acid precursors like cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. While these can sometimes help, the results can be hit or miss. Glutathione supplements are mostly destroyed by stomach acid before they can do much good. And even if you take the precursors, you must be super consistent, think three times a day, and that gets pricey, fast.
Some folks go even further and get glutathione injections, which work but let’s be honest, who wants to go for a needle every day?
Researchers from Bath University and Sydney University have been exploring something called Redox technology, and a new product called Redox Gold. This approach taps into your body’s own “master glutathione switch,” basically encouraging your body to produce its own glutathione more efficiently and sustainably.
Instead of relying on expensive supplements or inconvenient injections, this technology helps activate your body’s natural ability to maintain healthy glutathione levels. It’s like flipping a switch and letting your body do what it does best — heal, protect, and thrive.
Glutathione is one of the most powerful tools your body must stay healthy. With advances in redox science, maintaining optimal levels might just be easier than ever. To buy Redox Gold just go to https://need4change.com and click on the health and wellness link or contact me at info@need4change.com
by Colette Garside
Take aim this autumn with Shooting 4 Fun
F or over 30 years, Mark Treverton has been delivering adrenaline-fuelled fun through Shooting 4 Fun (S4F), offering everything from archery and axe throwing to clay and laser-target shooting.
Based in picturesque Hanbury, S4F has built a reputation for tailored experiences - team-building days, family events, stag and hen parties, and birthday celebrations - all centred around safe, expertly guided shooting.
Following a hugely successful debut in April, Silver Shots returns on Wednesday, October 1st, inviting anyone aged 65 and over to discover the thrill of clay shooting in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re a first-timer or have some experience, expert instructors will offer one-on-one guidance, with firearms carefully selected to suit age and buildminimising recoil and maximising comfort.
Participants will enjoy a 15-minute session during which they’ll take aim at 25 flying clays, all for £25. Equipment is provided, and complimentary tea or coffee, free parking, and toilet facilities are available onsite.
Mark said: “This is a brilliant opportunity for seniors to step out of their comfort zone and try something completely different. It’s all about having a great time, building confidence, and maybe even discovering a new passion.” Spaces are limited and pre-booking is essential.
For those seeking a seasonal thrill, S4F’s Private Halloween Laser Tag Parties on October 31st and November 1st - offer 90 minutes of eerie woodland laser tag for groups of 14 or more (ages ten and over).
With pumpkins, fog, and spooky surprises lurking in the trees, this nighttime experience has become a firm favourite. Dressing up is highly recommended to enhance the atmosphere - so get creative with your costumes. The parties are suitable for adults
as well as younger players, so why not gather your family and friends and book your own exclusive session for a night of spooky fun?
Looking ahead, S4F is now taking bookings for Christmas Clay Shoots. A quintessentially English tradition, winter shooting days are famed for their crisp air, camaraderie, and festive atmosphere. Rooted in countryside customs that once revolved around Boxing Day hunts, modern clay shooting delivers all the fun without the mess or ethics of live game.
It’s perfect for corporate groups too: outdoors, inclusive, and easy to pick up. With expert guidance, teams can compete in friendly challenges that build confidence, boost morale, and offer a refreshing alternative to office parties or pub lunches.
To book or find out more, contact Mark on 01527 575141 , email mark@shooting4fun.co.uk, or visit shooting4fun.co.uk
Civic reinvigorates
Beloved by everyone from the curate’s wife to captains of industry, Hondas are the cars that offer technological excellence that is one step ahead. Fine engineering in the ‘precision’ automotive camp is where their strength lies. Perhaps that’s why, when you want reliability, one name stands above others.
Never having stopped evolving, the Civic is one of the best cars of its time - benefitting from wide ranging developments. There have been plenty of aesthetic changes inside and out but not one is attention seeking.
The Honda Civic 2.0 MMD eCVT Advance is a car that is probably the market leader in its class. ‘Onwards and upwards’ cars like this re-invigorate the market - and re-invigorate the driver too, for the Civic pushes good sense and reliability to a high level.
A four-cylinder 2.0 litre petrol engine combines with two electric motors and a CVT transmission. The petrol engine drives the wheels when travelling at high speeds, but most of the time it generates electricity for the small battery pack. In stop-start traffic it switches
off altogether. There’s 181bhp on tap which will take you to ‘fast enough’ and yet the claimed fuel consumption is over 56 mpg. It’s probably the best hybrid system to date - helping to make the Civic so smooth and refined. Being Honda, reliability is assured.
Slide onto the comfortable seat and into the roomy environment of reassurance and promise. The interior of the top spec advance version, with sunroof and Bose sound system, is of higher quality now. You realise that here is a repository of refined transportation. Start up and take to the road and you’ll leave your blues behind as civic values predominate over crass modernism.
market and motorist
You’ll love the Civic for its ability to do all that you want of it in the best possible way, showing that Honda has gone better than many rival manufacturers and raised the bar.
A superbly capable chassis, with re-tuned suspension and steering, gives agility, letting you slalom through bends with the grace of an athlete. It feels balanced, poised and taut - and with an improved ride quality too. Spearing along on twisty roads is grin-inducing and if you engage ‘sport’ mode, this car really flies.
There’s more than just value for money (from £32,995 to £40,680 for the advance version) and you’re rewarded every time you drive. I tried hard but had no complaints. Most, I feel sure, will
be more than satisfied with the performance and with the frugality too.
This is an up-to-the-minute car, but it embodies traditional values of worth. It carries with it, its own oasis of calm, courtesy of silent running. If you’ll forgive me for saying so, the Civic takes the palm, setting the seal on civilised transportation and acquiring a legendary reputation for copper-bottomed reliability.
Say what you like, but there aren’t many cars that can manage this and put a smile on your face as well. We’ve all heard of ‘civic virtue’ - well here is a virtuous Civic that does not require a town crier to draw attention to the benefits. Cruising along some key words floated into my consciousness - like engaging, fluid, polished, refined, quality and image. These slip easily into the Honda’s lexicon. Oyez! Oyez! The Civic hybrid is the car for today.
by Syd Taylor
Warriors back at Sixways after three years of hurt
H ow
does it feel when you don’t have a rugby team anymore? That’s the agony that Worcester Warriors supporters have been facing for the last three years.
No more Saturday morning butterflies – will we win or lose today? The insistent ‘Come on You Warriors ’ cry from the stands, the groans of disappointment or shouts of triumph as a winger hurtles over the try line in a blur of blue and yellow.
When Warriors plummeted into administration in September 2022 it was as if the lifeblood had been sucked out of the community. Worse still, the two previous owners were the chief architects of doom – selling off the assets to themselves.
But support for the club never wavered. The Worcester Warriors Supporters Trust, formed in 2023, gave a voice to supporters and kept the flame alive. The tide turned in 2024 when executive chairman Christopher Holland masterminded the acquisition of Worcester Warriors by Junction 6 Limited. This in turn enabled the takeover of the freehold interests of the stadium and Warriors.
Once the Sixways business was stabilised, this was the starting point for an application for entry of the club into the second tier of professional rugby, now rebranded as Champ Rugby.
Warriors are back. After all the gloom and despair, it seems hard to believe. A ‘pinch me’
moment came when 600 supporters turned up to watch a training session. Kids, grandkids, parents, grandparents all cheered as the fledgling team of players tore around the pitch.
All this against the hum of season ticket holders catching up with their long-lost seat mates from the stands. Meanwhile new CEO Stephen Vaughan mingled with the crowd, clearly delighted to be part of the family reunion.
The excitement begins and with a recordbreaking number of season tickets sold, you can almost hear the ripple of joy flowing from Sixways.
Warriors’ campaign begins with a local derby against Coventry on October 4th. This is preceded by a pre-season friendly against Premiership champions Bath on September 20th. For tickets visit www.warriors.co.uk
Rosie Deakin and radio presenter Andrew Easton at Sixways
