Last week, local history teacher Andrew Trickett launched his sponsorship campaign for a bicycle ride from Worcester to Gheluvelt in Belgium.  He will be making the trip in October 2014, to mark the centenary of the outbreak of World War 1.  Proceeds will go to Acorns Hospice. Good luck to Andrew and his fellow cyclists!

 British Empire Medals were awarded to local men and women who have given outstanding service to the community. It was a proud moment for family and friends, as recipients were presented with their medals by the Lord Lieutenant.

Attendees will probably also remember the occasion because of the drilling, which started on the scaffolding outside just as the ceremony began. Happily, the builders agreed to desist until the presentations were over!

Later that day, a small delegation from Children in Need visited Worcester Cathedral on a whistle stop tour of English cathedrals. Phil and I met Pudsey and listened to a beautiful organ recital. The organiser was an impressive young lady, aged sixteen, who had given up her half-term to fund raise.

The Mayor of Stourport’s ukulele evening in aid of Acorns was a great success, despite the awful weather. The band played favourites from the sixties and seventies.

Saturday evening was eventful, as Phil and I dashed between the Round Table Bonfire and the Worcester Volunteer Centre dinner. Both were hugely enjoyable and well attended.

I was told that I would not be asked to detonate anything (a bit of a relief!) just count down and point dramatically. It seemed to work. The bonfire was spectacular!

Volunteer Centre diners enjoyed a three course meal and a thoroughly entertaining speech by BBC Hereford and Worcester’s Dave Bradley, rounding off a hectic week.