HANBAO release 15 NEW cocktails just in time for New Years!
Get ready to raise your glasses as HANBAO unveils its sensational new menu just in time for the New Year! With 15 exciting drink options, including 11 expertly crafted cocktails and 4 refreshing mocktails, there’s something to delight every palate. What better way to kick off the year than by gathering your friends and family for a memorable night out? Book your table now and toast to new beginnings with HANBAO’s irresistible creations!
NEW COCKTAILS
MATCHA DO ABOUT NOTHING
Eristoff, King’s Ginger, Mirin, Lemon, Watermelon, Matcha Foam
PEACH BLOSSOM SPRING
Beefeater, Giffard Pêche de Vigne, Ming River Baijiu, Pineapple, Lemon, Agave Syrup, Peychaud’s Bitters, Rose Petals
CHIFF KEEF
Koko Kanu, Mozart White Chocolate, Pandan, Lemon, Egg White, Matcha Foam
ROCKET FUEL
El Jimador Blanco, Velvet Falernum, Breakfast Tea Cold Brew, Lime, Soda, Grenadine
DR. ZAIUS
Jim Beam, Campari, Antica Formula, Banana, Banana Chips
POPPIN’ XANTE
Martell, Xante Pear, Velvet Falernum, Curaçao Bleu, Lemon, Popcorn
8 CHAMO-MILE
Chamomile Honey Infused Bourbon, Licor 43, Pineapple, Lemon, Agave Syrup, Angostura Bitters, M&M’s
SAIGON SILK
Stoli Vanilla, Advocaat, Kahlua, Cold Brew, Condensed Milk, Chocolate Dusting
PURPLE HAZE
Bayou White Rum, Giffard Violette, Pineapple, Cranberry, Lemon, Curaçao Bleu, Almond, Egg White
CLOUD NINE
Martell, Giffard Apricot, Lemon, Mango, White Chocolate, Egg White, Marshmallow
SOUR DIESEL
Bayou White Rum, Disaronno, Curaçao Bleu, Apple, Lime, Passion Fruit, Elderflower
MOCKTAILS
NO G SODA
Grape Soda, Elderflower, Apple, Cranberry, Lime
NOT SO PURPLE HAZE
Violette, Kiwi, Almond, Pineapple, Cranberry, Lime
THREE 6 MELON MAFIA
Pineapple Soda, Blueberry, Watermelon, Cranberry, Lime, Cucumber
RED RUNNER
Pandan, Almond, Pineapple, Lime, Soda, Cherry Kool-Aid
Book your table by pressing here.
Worcester’s Under The Tree Campaign Brings Holiday Joy
The first-ever "Under The Tree" campaign has been hailed a success, with the Worcester community rallying together to spread holiday cheer to those in need this Christmas.
A joint initiative by Worcester BID and Worcester Cathedral, the campaign gathered an impressive 18 huge bags and boxes full of gifts, ensuring local children and rough sleepers had a brighter festive season.
Generous residents donated a wide range of gifts, from Lego sets and teddy bears to scooters. The initiative provided crucial support for local children who might not have otherwise received a present this year.
The campaign worked closely with city businesses to set up donation points across Worcester, making it easy for the public to contribute. Gifts were dropped off at The Studio, Barclays Bank, and Worcester Cathedral, earning participants the title of “holiday heroes.” These gifts were distributed by the local charity, Kinship, ensuring that the right gifts reached the right recipients to bring smiles to faces this Christmas.
In addition to gifts for children, the campaign extended its reach to rough sleepers, collecting essential items to help this vulnerable group during the cold winter months. Donations for rough sleepers were received at Maggs and The Cardinals Hat, with Maggs distributing the items to meet pressing needs in the community.
A spokesperson for Worcester BID expressed gratitude for the campaign's remarkable first year:
"We are thrilled by the community’s response to the ‘Under The Tree’ campaign. Seeing so many people come together to make Christmas special for others has been truly heartwarming. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to building on this success in the years to come."
The support highlights the generosity of Worcester’s residents and their commitment to making a difference during the festive season.
With the campaign’s inaugural year off to such a flying start, organisers hope it will become a cherished tradition in the city, spreading joy to even more people in the years to come.
A Year of Safe Space: Celebrating our First Anniversary in the City
Worcester Safe Space was launched on 15 December 2023 by Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), with support from West Mercia Police, West Mercia’s Police & Crime Commissioner John Campion, The University of Worcester, Worcester Street Pastors, and other key organisations.
As we reach the first anniversary of Safe Space, let’s reflect on the incredible impact this initiative has had in Worcester City Centre. Through dedicated provisions and operational support, Safe Space has become a vital resource for the community.
This year, the hardworking Safe Space team of medical professionals has:
- Assisted with 2,629** medical, welfare, enquiries, and other incidents.
- Saved the NHS a minimum of £70,623.00** in ambulance conveyance alone, reducing the impact of city operations.
- Eliminated the need for 137 ambulances**, reducing pressure on NHS services.
**Data collected and displayed covers the past 11.5 months - December 15 2023-Nov 30 2024**
In November alone, the team addressed 472 incidents, providing vital care and support to visitors, students, residents, and rough sleepers. Whether helping individuals in need, answering queries, or ensuring people get home safely, the service continues to prove its value to Worcester’s community.
Expanding Provision for Worcester
In addition to its evening operations, Safe Space introduced daytime support, offering services five days a week. This expansion demonstrates the growing demand for the service and its ability to adapt to the needs of the city.
Supporting Events and Partnerships
Safe Space is also deployed during major city events. For example, the team will be out on New Year’s Eve to support local businesses during their busiest period, ensuring Worcester remains a welcoming and safe destination for all.
Born from Purple Flag Success
Safe Space originated as part of Worcester’s successful Purple Flag accreditation, which recognises excellence in the management of evening and night-time economies. Now in its third year of accreditation, the Purple Flag initiative—led by Worcester BID—continues to bring city partners together to strengthen Worcester’s reputation and support its growth.
Looking Ahead
As awareness of Safe Space grows, so does its use. With its ongoing development, the service will continue to play a vital role in supporting Worcester’s residents and visitors. Looking to the future, we aim to:
- Expand our provision.
- Support more city-wide initiatives.
- Continue helping individuals in need, ensuring Worcester remains a safe, thriving city.
- Continue supporting The University of Worcester Paramedic Students with placements to assist with providing real world hours and experience onboard Safe Space.
Whether you’re a student, a visitor, a resident, or someone experiencing rough sleeping, Safe Space is here to support you.
We look forward to continuing our services for the community as we enter our second year of operation in 2025.
5 Festive Events to Enjoy This December in Worcester
The festive season is in full swing, and Worcester is brimming with events to help you get into the holiday spirit. Here are five not-to-miss activities happening this December:
Festive Tudor Crafts at Greyfriars House and Garden – Today!
Step back in time and experience Christmas the Tudor way at Greyfriars House and Garden. Today, join the Lypett Household of Tudor reenactors as they bring history to life with traditional festive crafts. This is a perfect opportunity to learn and participate in how Christmas was celebrated centuries ago. Don’t miss it—doors open at 10:30am, and activities run throughout the day.- Become a Christmas Elf at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
Channel your inner elf and create your very own Christmas gift at this family-friendly workshop on December 15. Whether for a loved one or to add a personal touch to your holiday traditions, this event is a great way to make memories while crafting something special. Find details at https://bit.ly/giftingartworkshop. - Laugh Your Socks Off at the Christmas Comedy Club
Huntingdon Hall is bringing the laughs this December with their Christmas Comedy Club. Featuring top-notch comedians Jon Wagstaffe, Louise Leigh, Stella Graham, and Mike Cox, this event is sure to bring the house down. Get your tickets now and enjoy a night of festive hilarity. Learn more at www.worcestertheatres.co.uk. - Jazz Up Your December with Calypso Moon
Head to St Swithins Church for a mesmerising jazz concert with the all-female band Calypso Moon. Known for their fresh and playful renditions, they’re making waves in the UK jazz scene. A perfect night out for music lovers. For tickets and information, visit www.worcesterstswithuns.org. - Take the Worcester BID Christmas Window Trail
Explore the city and enjoy the 70 beautifully decorated shop windows as part of Worcester BID's free Christmas Window Trail. Pick up a map at the Worcester Tourist Information Centre or download it online at www.worcesterbid.com. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and discover festive creativity across town.
Get your calendars ready and make this December one to remember in Worcester!
Support Local: The Magic of Shopping Small This Holiday Season
Join the celebration of small business Saturday!
As the festive season lights up Worcester’s streets, there’s no better time to celebrate the soul of our city—its small businesses. With Small Business Saturday just around the corner, Worcester BID is encouraging everyone to make a conscious effort to shop local and support the amazing entrepreneurs who make our city unique.
Shopping locally isn’t just about ticking items off your holiday gift list; it’s about giving back to your community. For every pound spent at an independent retailer, a significant portion stays within the local economy, helping to create jobs and sustain vibrant high streets. Your purchase at an independent shop directly supports the livelihoods of Worcester’s talented small business owners, helping them grow and stay on our High Street for us to enjoy.
Did you know that research on spending by local authorities shows that when we shop locally, for every £1 spent with a small business, around 63p remains in the local economy(!), helping to keep our city moving?
This year, Worcester is brimming with opportunities to find truly special gifts. From jewellery and bespoke homeware to delicious treats made with local i
ngredients, our city’s independent shops and markets offer a treasure trove of unique finds. By shopping small on Small Business Saturday, you’re not just finding items to gift something one-of-a-kind—you’re supporting your community.
Small Business Saturday, taking place tomorrow, is the perfect time to show your support. Whether you’re visiting one of Worcester’s cosy cafes, picking up a special decoration, or treating a loved one to a gift voucher from a local business, every purchase makes a difference.
Worcester BID encourages you to share your shopping experiences using the hashtag #SmallBizSatUK. Let’s spread the word and inspire others to do the same!
Help us this Small Business Saturday to support Worcester’s independent businesses!
Discover lots of local businesses on our Instagram @worcesterbid.
____________________________________________________
How can I get my business involved?
This Saturday, 7 December, Small Business Saturday is your chance to shine! It’s a nationwide celebration of the amazing small businesses that are the backbone of our local economy—just like yours.
By participating, you can:
- Attract more customers who are looking to shop locally.
- Showcase your unique products or services as part of a vibrant, city-wide campaign.
- Strengthen the local community, as every pound spent locally keeps 63p circulating in Worcester’s economy.
How to get involved:
- Promote your business – Let your customers know about your offers or special events this Saturday.
- Use the hashtag #SmallBizSatUK – Join the conversation online and share what makes your business unique.
- Collaborate with other businesses – Create joint promotions or experiences to draw in more visitors.
- Feature your business on our Instagram @worcesterbid – Tag us, and we’ll help share your story!
Need ideas or support? Visit Small Business Saturday UK for inspiration and resources or press below to download a marketing pack.
DOWNLOAD MY MARKETING PACK
Maneki Ramen Launches Crowdfunder to Bring Award-Winning Japanese Cuisine to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter
Maneki Ramen, the beloved Japanese and ramen restaurant from the acclaimed team behind Burger Shop and The Bookshop Hereford, is on the verge of an exciting new chapter. They’ve launched a Crowdfunder campaign to open their second site in Birmingham’s iconic Jewellery Quarter, bringing their award-winning dishes to a larger audience and creating a new neighbourhood hotspot for Japanese cuisine lovers.
The campaign, which launched last week, has already made waves, raising an impressive 30% of its target. Even legendary food critic Jay Rayner highlighted it in his column in The Guardian, boosting its momentum. The Crowdfunder is packed with enticing rewards, including exclusive experiences with world-renowned chefs and 150%-value gift cards that make for perfect Christmas presents for Maneki Ramen fans.
A Community-Centered Approach
Maneki Ramen’s co-owner Pete Dovaston shared his excitement about expanding to Birmingham:
“We’re thrilled to create a neighbourhood restaurant in the Jewellery Quarter. It’s a chance to bring our award-winning dishes to a bigger audience and immerse ourselves in Birmingham’s vibrant food scene. This new space will be a reflection of our passion for crafting incredible ramen and Japanese-inspired dishes while connecting with the local community.”
The team chose Crowdfunder as the platform to bring their vision to life, inspired by the success of their community-focused approach in Worcester. Co-owner Dorian Kirk explained:
“Crowdfunder felt like the perfect fit. We’ve embedded ourselves into the Worcester community and knew it was essential to replicate that connection in Birmingham. This platform allows us to engage with our customers directly, giving them a stake in building something truly special.”
A Taste of What’s to Come
Fans eager to get a preview of Maneki Ramen’s award-winning menu can head to Birmingham’s famous Digbeth Dining Club at Herbert’s Yard on Thursday, 5th December. In an innovative twist, visitors can pay for their food with a pledge to the Crowdfunder, offering a chance to enjoy Maneki Ramen’s signature flavours while supporting their new venture.
With some rewards already selling out, now is the time to visit the Crowdfunder page, snap up a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and help make this exciting new space a reality. Maneki Ramen is poised to bring something truly unique to Birmingham, and the community’s support will play a vital role in shaping its future.
Get involved and pledge your support today—together, we can make this new neighbourhood Japanese restaurant a staple in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
CHECK OUT THE CAMPAIGN HERE!
The Victorian Christmas Fayre comes to Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum
Christmas Craft Fair 29 November – 1 December
Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum is joining in with Worcester’s popular Victorian Fayre by hosting a Christmas Craft Fair at the Foregate Street gallery, showcasing a wide variety of crafts to purchase from some of the best craft makers in the region.
A sumptuous and colourful range of jewellery, ceramics, glassware, textiles and artisan foods will be on sale, with different makers exhibiting across the three days.
Art Gallery & Museum Events Officer Tracey Ayre says: "We are delighted to be joining in with the Victorian Christmas Fayre by hosting a celebration of craft with many different makers on show all so talented and producing beautiful wares. It is ideal if you are looking for unique Christmas gifts, and being situated just five minutes’ walk from the High Street we hope visitors to the Victorian Fayre will come and visit us and shop for that special something."
Visitors to the Craft Fair can also enjoy traditional festive music from choirs including local favourites GRVIII Men In Harmony, and Got 2 Sing. They can browse the fabulous Museum Shop which has an excellent range of Christmas cards and gifts to suit all pockets and enjoy seasonal treats in Little Al’s Kitchen at the Balcony Cafe. The annual colourful exhibition by Worcester Society of Artists is also open.
The Christmas Craft Fair is on at Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November 10am – 4pm, and Sunday 1 December 10am – 3pm. Entry is free.
For more information including Christmas opening times please see www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk or call 01905 25371.
Worcester Christmas Window Art Is Back for 2024! #takethetrail
✨It’s time to get festive and take our free Window Trail! Download the map and follow the trail to discover magical art across the city ✨
WANT TO GO DIGITAL? PRESS HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE WINDOW TRAIL MAP.
OR, PICK UP A MAP AT THE TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE (LOCATED AT THE GUILDHALL) FROM 29/11/24!
Please note: Location 26 will have completed artwork shortly. This location is currently undergoing work.
Be a Holiday Hero: Help Spread Joy Locally with the 'Under the Tree' Gift Drive
This Christmas, Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) and gift drive partner, Worcester Cathedral, invite businesses and residents to join the ‘Under the Tree’ Gift Drive—a heartwarming initiative designed to bring joy to local children and much-needed items to rough sleepers, collecting between the 23rd of November and 16th of December. With the support of Worcester’s vibrant business community and local charities ready to distribute donations, this campaign aims to spread smiles and share kindness throughout the festive season.
The ‘Under the Tree’ Gift Drive is a collaborative effort in partnership with Kinship and Maggs Day Centre, two remarkable, local charities dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and adults in Worcester. Every donation helps ensure that no one feels left out during the holiday season.
Sam McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID, emphasised that the goal of this campaign is to bring smiles and essential items to people in our local area who are in need this December. “Every year thousands come to view the sparkling trees within the Cathedral cloisters bringing delight to visitors, however for many Christmas isn’t full of joy with eyes lighting up on Christmas morning. This year think about how we as a community can change what’s under the tree for many this year. Instead of Secret Santa with your colleagues, why not be a Secret Santa for a child in need who would be over the moon to receive a gift this Christmas or to support someone who has found themselves in a troubled position of rough sleeping, bring them warmth and essentials to help their day to day lives.”
Support Children in Need Through Kinship:
Donations for children will be distributed to kids facing challenging circumstances, such as those in care or emergency housing. These gifts can bring a sense of normality and joy to children experiencing a difficult time, creating a special day no matter where.
Provide Essential Items to Rough Sleepers Through Maggs:
Rough sleepers often face harsh conditions during the winter. Maggs Day Centre will distribute donated items to help provide warmth, comfort, and dignity to those without a home this Christmas.
How Can Your Business Can Help?
Instead of traditional gift exchanges or office Secret Santa activities, businesses are encouraged to organise a donation drive. By reimagining workplace festive gifting traditions, you can make a meaningful local impact and show support for the Worcester community.
Convenient Donation Points Across Worcester:
Drop off your contributions at one of the designated locations, making it easy for businesses, employees, and residents to participate.
To Donate a children’s gift (Children’s Gifts will be distributed to Kinship):
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- Worcester Cathedral (8 College Yard: (Monday-Friday 10am-4pm at the welcome desk))
- Barclays Bank (54 High Street)
- The Studio (9 Trinity Street)
- Howden Insurance (gifts donated here will go to Cash for Kids)
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To give a gift to rough sleepers (Gifts are distributed to Maggs):
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- The Cardinal’s Hat (31 Friar Street)
- Maggs (59-60 The Tything)
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What to Donate:
- For children, consider toys, books, and games that can bring cheer.
- For rough sleepers, practical items like warm clothing, blankets, toiletries, and non-perishable food are ideal. Find a helpful list of Maggs much-needed items at https://bit.ly/MaggsGifting.
Learn More About the Charities:
Visit the links below to discover more about how Kinship and Maggs are making a difference in our community:
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- Learn More About Kinship at www.kinshipcarersuk.com.
- Learn More About Maggs at www.maggsdaycentre.co.uk.
With the combined efforts of Worcester’s businesses, charities, and residents, the ‘Under the Tree’ Gift Drive is set to make this Christmas unforgettable for many. Together, we can turn small gestures into big smiles and ensure that everyone feels the warmth of the festive season.
So, join us in spreading joy locally this Christmas and become a holiday hero by donating to one of the local drop-off points between the 23rd of November and the 16th of December.
Download the brand pack here to get started on social media and spread the word about your involvement with the gift drive!
Christmas is coming to Worcester early!
As the Christmas season approaches, it’s hard to believe that it is already November! Here is what you can look forward to in Worcester leading up to Christmas 2024, so you don’t miss out on any festive fun. Check out our handy Event Guide!
5 FREE Upcoming Festive Events:
1. Christmas Light Switch-On
Join us for the Christmas Light Switch-On in Cathedral Square on Saturday, 23rd November, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Hosted by BBC Hereford and Worcester, this event will feature a special visit from Santa Claus, who will help illuminate Worcester for the festive season!
2. The Hive Christmas Fayre
Discover unique gifts at The Hive Christmas Fayre on Saturday, 7th December, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Support local artisans and find the perfect holiday presents in Worcester's beautiful golden library.
3. Visits from Father Christmas
Look out for Father Christmas making appearances around Worcester as we count down to the big day! Don't miss the chance to meet Santa in Toytown at Crowngate Shopping Centre for fun selfies with your little ones. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/crowngateshopping.
4. Victorian Christmas Fayre
Experience Worcester’s annual Victorian Christmas Fayre, which runs from 28th November to 1st December. This cherished tradition features nearly 200 stallholders dressed in authentic Victorian attire. Browse a variety of handcrafted goods, local treats, and unique gifts while enjoying street performers, stilt walkers, and the charm of a traditional funfair. More details can be found at worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk. This is an event you won’t want to miss!
5. Worcester Cathedral’s Christmas Tree Festival
Visit the Christmas Tree Festival at Worcester Cathedral from 5th December to 6th January. Enjoy a stunning display of trees decorated by local charities, businesses, and organisations—a truly heartwarming sight. For opening hours, please check worcestercathedral.org.uk.
For full information on any of the events, please visit each venue's website to ensure you have the most up-to-date details before attending.
Make Worcester Your 2024 Christmas Destination!
For more festive inspiration, follow us at @worcesterbid.
Worcester’s Commandery Celebrates National ‘Welcome’ Award
The Commandery is celebrating after being named among the Best in Britain by Visit England, the national tourist board for England.
72 English attractions were given an award from Visit England to celebrate their excellence. Five categories were on offer: Welcome, Quality Food and Drink, Hidden Gem, Best Told Story, and the Gold award for overall experience.
The Commandery, in Sidbury, Worcester, won the ‘Welcome’ award and was praised for its welcoming environment. The accolade celebrates the high-quality experience offered to visitors to the historic site.
Built on the site of an early medieval chapel, The Commandery has been a monastic hospital, family home, Royalist Civil War headquarters, a college for the blind, and housed the Littlebury Printworks, before becoming today’s museum revealing significant stories of Worcester’s history. A magnificent medieval great hall, a death mask of Oliver Cromwell, walled gardens, and fifteenth-century wall paintings are just some of the highlights.
The building also regularly hosts events and activities for all.
Andrew Stoke, director of Visit England, said: "These accolades highlight the wonderful visitor experiences provided by English attractions, from the warmest of welcomes to amazing food and drink, and from great storytelling to outstanding customer service.
"Our tourism businesses are the bedrock of our industry and it is wonderful to highlight and celebrate the fantastic service and experiences they give visitors time after time."
Rachel Robinson, Museum Manager at The Commandery, said, “We are so pleased to receive the ‘Welcome’ Visitor Attraction Accolade for The Commandery. This award is a tribute to our fabulous team and a recognition of the excellent welcome they provide to all visitors.”
To find out more about The Commandery and to plan a visit, see www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk
‘Calling all the ladies’ - Museum of Royal Worcester launches after-hours mulled wine paint-a-pot event
The Museum of Royal Worcester is opening the doors to its ceramic studio after-hours for the first time. New museum director, Kate, Travers will be hosting a sociable creative evening of pottery painting, mulled wine and mince pies on Friday 8 November, 4pm-8pm. The after-hours event is an opportunity for women to get together with colleagues or friends and create unique personalised presents or treats, inspired by the Museum’s collections. All pots will be glazed and fired in time for Christmas. There will also be a raffle and a bar open on the night.
Kate Travers, museum director, said: “We’re calling all the ladies to start the festive season by painting pots after hours and having fun. It’s a great opportunity to meet up with other Worcestershire ladies over a mulled wine and enjoy a memorable creative evening.”
She added: “As an independent charity, it costs £600 per day to care for and celebrate Worcester’s porcelain heritage through our year round creative programme. Monies raised from the evening will go towards our work connecting local communities with ‘The Porcelain’s’ vibrant design heritage.”
The museum is hosting two sessions, 4pm-6pm for women who can get out of work early and 6pm – 8pm, for those who prefer to come along after the office. Tickets cost £30 per person for the event, which includes a mulled wine and mince pies and choice from a wide range of ceramics; from mugs, bowls, espresso cups, and sushi dishes to coasters and flowerpots. Participants can also upgrade on the night and ‘go large’ with butter dishes, vases and pet bowls, or the ever popular Campervan trinket dishes.
Samantha McCarthy, chief executive of Worcester BID said: “It’s fantastic to see an event that celebrates Worcester’s vibrant crafting history in such a hands-on way. This event allows our business community and local women to come together and enjoy an evening painting ceramics. The community spirit in Worcester is something we wholeheartedly champion at Worcester BID in our initiatives, and it truly shines through in the work of the Museum of Royal Worcester.”
The Museum shop will be open with 10% off to help with festive shopping savings, from unique pendants, ear-rings and cufflinks made out of Worcester porcelain, to food and drink inspired books, kimonos and scarves inspired by the collection and even a new range of six handmade sustainable Christmas crackers which use stunning designs from the Museum’s archive.
For more information and booking, please visit www.museumofroyalworcester.org/whats-on
The Entertainer reveals the top toys for Christmas 2024!
From interactive pets to blasters - The Entertainer reveals the top toys for Christmas
As the most wonderful time of the year approaches, the UK’s largest independent toy retailer, The Entertainer, has announced its top toy predictions for Christmas 2024.
The toyshop’s highly-anticipated list contains a mix of 12 exciting and educational toys suiting all budgets and offering affordable joy, with prices from £8 to £64.99.
From interactive pets and snuggly toys to racetracks and blasters, the predictions feature gifts for children of all ages this Christmas.
The Entertainer’s top toy picks for Christmas 2024:
- Gold Fugglers – exclusive to The Entertainer, £8 (available now)
- Totally Tracks Loop Race Track, £12.50 (available now)
- Early Learning Centre Wooden Little Town Figure of Eight Playset – exclusive to The Entertainer, was £34.99 now £14.99 (available now)
- Bluey's Escape Convertible Playset - exclusive to The Entertainer, £19.99 (available now)
- Disney Lilo & Stitch Crack Me Up Interactive Soft Toy, £25.00 (available now)
- Happyland Limited Edition Gold London Bus, to mark Early Learning Centre’s 50th anniversary, £27.99 (available now)
- Despicable Me 4 The Ultimate Fart Blaster, £29.99 (available now)
- Hot Wheels Power Shift Motorised Raceway Playset – exclusive to The Entertainer, was £59.99 now £29.99 (available now)
- Pets Alive Mama Duck Surprise Electronic Pet by ZURU, £29.99 (available from 09.10.24)
- Disney Bitzee Interactive Pet, £39.99 (available now)
- BeyBlade Extreme Playset, was £44.99 now £35.99 (available now)
- Hatchimals Alive! Mystery Hatch Pufficorn Electronic Pet, £64.99 (available now)
Steve Pearson, Head of Buying at The Entertainer, said:
“After months of research and testing, we’re delighted to reveal the toys we expect will be on every letter to Santa this year.
“From exclusive toys such as Bluey’s convertible car and the Hot Wheels Power Shift Motorised Raceway Playset; to the interactive fun of Hatchimals and Pets Alive Mama Duck Surprise and the hilarious Despicable Me 4 Fart Blaster; we're sure this year’s picks will be popular with all families.
“At The Entertainer, we want to offer affordable joy so our top toys for Christmas, and wider ranges, include great value toys with lots of play content that inspire wonder and imagination. We’re confident that each of this year’s handpicked 12 predictions offers something different for every child, and every budget.”
In addition to the top toy picks, The Entertainer offers thousands of great value toys and gifts available for the festive season, with more than 1,200 products under just £10. The toyshop also offers a personalised present finder online, to help shoppers find the perfect gift.
Discover The Entertainer’s full range of Christmas toys and games in-store and online at www.thetoyshop.com.
The Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre is back for 2024!
Worcester's annual Victorian Fayre is back for 2024
To learn more about trading during the Fayer, please read the October Business letter for Victorian Fayre from Worcester City Council by pressing the underlined text.
Independent surveys have shown that the Fayre benefits the whole county of Worcestershire in a variety of ways and contributes an additional boost to the economy of more than £7.3 million a year through additional visitors, overnight stays, and spend in local businesses.
We recognise that the Fayre is an important event to many people, and a key tradition in Worcester’s Christmas calendar, attracting over 125,000 visitors to the city over the four days.
Cotswold Markets Ltd will once again be managing the market, which will include festive wooden chalets, and have promised Victorian dress, local producers and Fayre favourites alongside new traders.
The Victorian Fayre is taking place this festive season between the 28th of November and 1st of December
Who's excited?!
Discover more at https://www.worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk/
A NEW business is making a splash in Worcester
A new business is making a splash in Worcester! Splasherist, located at 2 New Street, is a fresh addition to the city’s creative landscape. This immersive art studio is a partnership between Oliva Gawad, Bernadett Huszti and Laslo Megysei, offers the chance for people of all ages to explore their artistic side through painting techniques that prioritise fun and freedom. Catering to individuals, families, and corporate groups, Splasherist hosts sessions for up to 15 people and promises a one-of-a-kind experience. Children aged 5-16 can join in too, making it a perfect family activity where everyone leaves with their own artwork.
“The Splasherist Team is so excited to join the many other independent businesses in the Historic City of Worcester! Over the years we've seen art thrive in the local community, and we wanted to get involved and encourage others to do so as well. Whether it's to destress or have some fun, we welcome everyone to come and make a beautiful mess in our studio! Enjoy splashing, spraying and pouring paint, without any rules or guidelines; In fact, we encourage you to paint the walls and each other! We aim to motivate others to use their emotions constructively, whatever they may be feeling, by making a unique piece of artwork that can be cherished forever. It's also a wonderful way of bringing people together and celebrating those special moments. This experience is open to those of all ages (5+) and abilities, as anyone can become a Splasherist!”
The team will also be introducing Splash & Dance on November 15th, a high-energy workshop where participants can use glow-in-the-dark and neon paints to create art inspired by music and movement. Led by the team, this transformative experience invites you to swirl and splash colours while dancing to the rhythm of your soul under UV lighting. It’s fun, freeing, and sure to make you laugh along the way.
Splasherist is now taking bookings for the festive season, including work parties, VIP workshops, and they even offer vouchers for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones.
Worcester BID is delighted to see Splasherist bringing something truly unique to the city's vibrant cultural scene. So, whether you want to unleash some rage and splash away, or discover some uninhibited painting styles where mess isn’t a problem, the team is looking forward to welcoming you.
You can find out more about the new venue on their website at https://splasherist.com/worcester or on Instagram @splasheristworcester!
Discover more with the Worcester BID Members Card
Do you or someone you know work for a business in Worcester City Centre? If so, they could be entitled to exclusive savings across the city!
To show appreciation for the dedicated staff at our member businesses, we’ve launched a special discount card designed specifically for those who work hard to keep our city vibrant and our local business community thriving.
These cards have already been distributed to employees across the city, offering fantastic discounts and helping boost trade during the week. The discounts cover a wide range of categories, including food and drink, shopping, activities, beauty treatments, and services – there’s even a dentist offering savings! It’s been fantastic to see people discovering new venues they hadn’t visited before, thanks to the members' card.
Joining the city centre workforce for Christmas? What better way to celebrate than by using your new BID Members card during the festive season!
If you're not among those eligible for the card, don’t worry – there’s something for you too!
PureGym Worcester is offering a limited-time deal with 50% off the first three months of membership until January, plus no joining fee! Another bonus, Pure Gym is a 24/7 accessible gym, the perfect fitness option for those with ever-busy lives. Make the most of this offer and level up your fitness routine by visiting their website at www.puregym.com and using the code SAVEHALF at signup.
For more details, visit us at www.worcesterbid.com and follow us on social media: @worcesterbid on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and @makeitworc on Instagram and TikTok.
Remarkable Commerce Celebrations in the City
November 1st will see the milestone of 40 years of Body Shop in Worcester!
Amanda Willis from Body Shop in Chapel Walk said "I have been with the store since the beginning, and two other employees have been here for over 38 years each, while another has been here for nearly 15 years! It truly shows how much we love our store."
The Body Shop is the perfect place to find Christmas gifts or treat yourself. Did you know that they even have a refill station where you can bring your empty aluminium Body Shop container and ask a friendly team member to fill it up with your favourite refillable hair care, shower gel, or hand wash? Keep on bringing it back for more, and you even get some extra product for your good eco-deed, as each refill contains an additional 50ml of product for free!
M&M Meats, situated on St. Swithin’s Street, is a local, family-owned business established 40 years ago. They have been in their current city-centre location for 20 years and are still going strong!
Did you know that M&M Meats makes their own sausages with a variety of delicious flavours to choose from? All their meat is locally sourced whenever possible, and they offer a wide range of beef, pork, lamb, poultry, and game. When you shop at M&M Meats, you are truly supporting local.
Staying on the topic of culinary delights, Peter Cooks Bread has just been awarded Best Bakery in the West Midlands at the UK National Bakery Awards! This is an impressive feat as the West Midlands covers around 3 million residents and 13,000 KM2: that’s a lot of potential bakeries to compete with!
Peter Cooks Bread produces the majority of its pastries, breads, and other delicious baked goods by hand, crafted by skilled bakers. From Cinnamon Buns to Poached Pear and Perry Sourdoughs, everything is as fresh as it can get. You can find your perfect bake at 3 The Hopmarket, Worcester.
It appears that 2024 is bringing forth a year of remarkable awards and milestones for the city and its businesses. Please continue to support your local high street and city centre by making in-person purchases to ensure the ongoing success of our county's commerce and community hub, Worcester.
Worcester is #Open4Business.
What Would Happen If Worcester Lost BID's Leadership and Investment?
The potential loss of the Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) could have a significant impact on the city’s businesses, residents, and the wider community. For nearly 15 years, Worcester BID has been a crucial part of city leadership, spearheading initiatives that have enhanced the city’s vibrancy and safety. In the past five years alone, the BID’s contributions have become even more vital. As Worcester BID CEO Samantha McCarthy stated, “We hope to continue this great work for another five years with a resounding YES.”
As Worcester continues to grow, BID leadership is more critical than ever. Losing the organisation would not only impact businesses but have far-reaching effects across the city. The BID has introduced innovative projects like the Safe Space and Safer Streets Team, while injecting over £6 million into the local economy, all without additional cost to taxpayers. The absence of such efforts would leave a noticeable gap in Worcester’s landscape.
Indirect Benefits of BID Initiatives
One of Worcester BID’s key strengths lies in the indirect benefits it provides. Seasonal floral displays and aerial city shows have become iconic features of Worcester’s charm, enhancing the city’s appeal to tourists and elevating its profile on social media. These initiatives have not only beautified the city but also helped position Worcester as a cultural and economic destination.
The Safe Space initiative has boosted consumer confidence, reassuring residents and visitors alike that Worcester is a safe place. This has been particularly important for parents sending their children to university in the city. Moreover, the BID’s partnership with the University of Worcester has provided real-world placements for paramedic students, making Worcester an attractive option for students.
Enhanced Services and Business Support
Beyond aesthetics, Worcester BID has made significant improvements to local services. It has helped integrate a radio system connecting local businesses with CCTV, West Mercia Police, and Safer Streets Officers, enhancing crime reduction efforts. This has made the city a safer place for both businesses and residents.
Additionally, through effective lobbying, Worcester BID secured over £100,000 in 2023 to fund city infrastructure projects. These enhancements have made Worcester a more appealing location for new businesses, boosting job creation and supporting the local economy.
The BID’s marketing efforts have also helped establish Worcester as a prime location for entrepreneurs. Worcester's vacancy rate remains below regional averages, while the city boasts an impressive independent business rate of 67.5%. This highlights the BID’s role in fostering a unique, thriving city.
The Role of BID in Building Community
At its core, Worcester BID strives to create a thriving, connected community. It provides a platform for local businesses to collaborate and work towards shared goals, ensuring that the city remains a dynamic and appealing place to live, work, and visit.
As the BID’s future hangs in the balance as it goes to vote next month within the business community, the potential loss of its leadership and investment threatens the progress made over the past 15 years.
Without Worcester BID, the city risks losing not only key services but also a vision for a stronger, more united future one that the community cannot afford to lose.
Find out more at www.worcesterbid.com
Autumns Approaching: Staying safe as the nights get darker
As autumn approaches and we leave behind the sunny summer evenings, it's time to consider the darker evenings and make sure you feel safe getting and leaving work and using the city.
Safe Space Worcester is available to help every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night to help if you find you need it. No matter how small. No judgement.
There are also 'Safe Places' dotted all over the town centre ready to give you a safe space to wait, help to call someone or a quiet moment away from the crowds. If you need help, the map below shows you your local Safe Spaces. These are great places to go in the day time too.
Save this map to your phone for a helpful reminder of where is registered as a Safe Space, or look out for a window sticker.
They look like this!
We also have a super helpful directory of services on our website, where you can find the best contact from local providers for you or a loved one.
Press here to find out more: Service Directory: Support for Recovery in Worcestershire - Worcester BID
What Worcester Could Lose Without the BID
In March this year, Worcester BID reached out to the community, keen to hear directly from its membership, the local business community. The feedback was clear: safer streets, a vibrant city centre, and support for business skills and staff retention are crucial. However, without Worcester BID, the essential services and initiatives that work towards a better livelier city could disappear, leaving a significant void that statutory services cannot fill.
Worcester BID plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and vibrancy of our city. Without it, the initiatives that contribute to safer streets would be at risk. This includes the Worcester Safe Space and team, Safer Streets Officers, and the CityNet Radio System that connects retailers to CCTV and Police. Regular Safer City meetings, youth support to reduce ASB in the city through The BASE Youth Hub and plans to reduce anti-social behaviour would all face termination.
The aesthetic appeal of Worcester would also suffer if these enhancements were not in place. The festive lighting adds a magical touch to the city during the Christmas holidays, and the creative aerial displays during summer, window art, planters, planting upkeep, and public art installations are all funded, organised, and supported by Worcester BID. These improvements make Worcester not just a place to shop, and do business, but a destination in itself. Many people share selfies and photographs of the installations on social media, creating a buzz and inspiring others to book long weekends in the city. Businesses have also reported that dwell time is up, as well as artwork providing a reduction in graffiti tagging.
Moreover, Worcester BID serves as a strong, business-focused voice, advocating for the city and its businesses. From securing external grants to leading on city accreditations, Worcester BID plays a crucial role in attracting foot traffic and investment. It is also a key stakeholder in shaping the future of the High Street, ensuring that the needs of local businesses are at the forefront of development plans.
Promotion is another area where Worcester BID excels. The city’s presence in national and local press, on television, and across social media platforms would diminish without their efforts. Business filming, professional photography, and city trails that draw visitors and locals alike would also be lost.
Finally, Worcester BID provides invaluable support to businesses in retaining employees. Through compliance training, management development skills, customer service training, social media skills workshops and more, Worcester BID helps local businesses gain invaluable skills. They also offer employee discounts, and local discounted parking schemes, and provide confidential welfare support via the Safe Space initiative.
In summary, Worcester BID is more than just a business improvement district; it works to connect the City’s services with its business community, working to provide safer streets, stronger communities, and a thriving Worcester. Without it, the city stands to lose far more than just a few services. For more information on Worcester BID, please explore www.worcesterbid.com.
ESCAPE HUNT WORCESTER BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
Escape Hunt Worcester has opened bookings for their unmissable escape rooms and outdoor experiences, as they set to open their doors on Friday 6th September.
Located in Cathedral Plaza shopping centre, Worcester’s most exciting new attraction will offer epic immersive adventures as well as unique party packages, that cater for birthdays, hen, stag, corporate events and Christmas parties.
Guests will be transported to exciting new worlds as they take on thrilling 5* escape rooms, where they can capture the magical lamp in Aladdin and The Magic Vault, return a stolen amulet in Curse of the Pharaoh, and take on the King of Vampires in the brand-new game Dracula.
Epic outdoor adventures will also be available including the brand-new City Hunt game Vampire Hunters, as well as Time Cops and Return to Wonderland.
Escape Hunt CEO Richard Harpham commented, ‘We’re thrilled to announce bookings are open, and that we’ll be bringing the magic of our immersive entertainment to Worcester. Some of our most popular escape rooms will be opening at the venue including our brand-new games Dracula and Vampire Hunters and we couldn’t be more excited!’
Escape rooms are suitable for ages 8+ and City Hunt adventures are suitable for all ages with under 8’s go free. Prices start from just £25 per person.
To book your experience for Worcester, head to the link HERE.
You can find Escape Hunt at Unit 2, 6 High St Cathedral Square Worcester, WR1 2BY.
Twitter: EscapeHuntUK
Facebook: EscapeHuntWorcester
Instagram: EscapeHuntUK
What would happen if we lost Worcester BID's leadership and investment?
"Worcester BID has been part of city leadership for nearly 15 years. In the past 5 years, significant changes have been made, resulting in real improvements in the City of Worcester for its residents, business owners, and workers. We hope to continue this great work for another 5 with a resounding YES"
~ Samantha McCarthy, Worcester BID CEO
As Worcester continues to grow and evolve, the role of the Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) has never been more critical. The potential loss of Worcester BID would have far-reaching consequences, not just for businesses but for the entire community. Through innovative projects such as Safe Space and Safer Streets Team and strategic partnerships, Worcester BID has significantly contributed to the vibrancy and safety of our city; a contribution totalling over 6 million pounds of investment directly back into the city. The absence of such initiatives would undoubtedly be felt across all sectors.
Indirect Benefits of Our Work
One of the key strengths of Worcester BID lies in the indirect benefits it provides to the city. Seasonal floral displays enhance our space whilst City aerial displays have become a hallmark of Worcester’s charm, shared widely on social media, drawing both locals and tourists alike. These visually stunning additions brighten the cityscape and attract media attention, putting Worcester on the map as a destination worth visiting.
Initiatives like Safe Space Worcester increase consumer confidence, ensuring that the city stays a safe and welcoming environment for all and providing parents with an extra level of security when sending children off to university, or choosing a place to live. Worcester BID's new partnership with The University of Worcester has also added extra reason for future paramedics to choose Worcester with the provision of real-world placements in the City.
Benefits to Services and Clients
Worcester BID’s impact extends beyond the visible enhancements to the city. By providing extra investment, the BID has enabled local service upgrades, such as by adding a connective radio system between CCTV, West Merica Police, Safer Streets Officers and local businesses, resulting in a better experience for business owners and improved crime reduction strategies. Through effective lobbying, the BID has secured funding and resources that contribute to a stronger city infrastructure; in 2023, over £100,000 of added income from grants was injected into projects to benefit the City. This, in turn, makes Worcester an attractive location for new businesses, creates job opportunities, and develops a stronger City to attract new residents to choose Worcester to make home.
Moreover, the BID’s efforts in marketing the city and achieving national accolades have provided a compelling reason for entrepreneurs to start businesses here, whilst keeping partners accountable and moving forward by finding gaps in provisions
and developing solutions. Statistically, our current vacancy rate is below area averages, whilst our independent rate is significantly above, sitting at 67.5%, showing we have fostered and kept a unique city alive. By advancing partner collaborations, the BID has played a crucial role in shaping Worcester into a dynamic and appealing place to live, work, and visit.
What the BID Provides
At its core, Worcester BID is about creating a thriving community. It provides a platform for businesses to collaborate, share resources, and achieve common goals. The BID’s work encompasses a wide range of activities and will always aim to champion the interests of local businesses and residents.
As we look to the future, continued support for Worcester BID is essential. Without it, we risk losing the very initiatives that keep our City ticking. Worcester BID provides not just services, but a vision for a stronger, more connected community—a vision that we cannot afford to lose.
For more information, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn @worcesterbid.
The Impact of Worcester BID: Strengthening Our City Together
Since its inception, Worcester BID has been at the forefront of driving positive change in our city centre. With over £6 million invested, we have worked tirelessly to enhance Worcester, increasing footfall that directly translates into additional income for local businesses. Our commitment extends beyond financial investment; it’s about creating a vibrant, connected, and safe environment for everyone who lives, works, or visits our city.
Our investment has gone far beyond enhancing the streets We have prioritised the creation of safer streets and stronger communities. Through targeted initiatives, we’ve upgraded lighting, added aerial displays that have gained national recognition on Beautiful Britain, enhanced surveillance, and collaborated
closely with local law enforcement. These measures have made Worcester a more secure and welcoming place to enjoy both day and night.
Worcester BID serves as the vital connector in our city, uniting diverse sectors—retail, services, and hospitality—whilst working closely with local governance and advocating on behalf of the business community when needed. We are committed to providing ongoing support and training to local businesses, helping them thrive in an ever-changing market. Our workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one support have empowered businesses to adapt, grow, and meet the needs of their customers more effectively.
The impact on the local economy has been significant. By attracting more visitors to our city, we’ve bolstered Worcester’s reputation as a must-visit destination, having recently been recognised among the top 10 High Streets by retail experts GlobalData. Our supporting work for projects like the ‘Waddle of Worcester’ community art trail has driven footfall, with an additional ten baby BID penguins installed in shop windows and 45 colourful penguin footprints adorning windows across the city. This surge in activity has boosted sales and enhanced wayfinding in areas with limited space for large sculptures, such as New, College, and Pump Street.
Our initiatives have also strengthened Worcester’s night-time economy, transforming it into a bustling hub of activity that is both safe and welcoming. Programmes such as Safe Space support visitors and residents, making them feel secure while enjoying our venues. Creative initiatives like the Lantern Parade and Starlight have brought the community together, drawing families into the city from afternoon until the Light Switch-On, providing businesses with valuable footfall.
As the voice of Worcester, Worcester BID is proud to engage and unite our community. Our work ensures that Worcester remains a thriving, dynamic city where businesses and communities flourish by working together.
For more information about our work, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn @worcesterbid.
Worcester Safe Space Partners with the University of Worcester for Training
In a thrilling new development, Worcester Safe Space has announced a collaborative initiative with the University of Worcester to offer paramedic students hands-on, real-world training. This partnership aims to enrich the educational experience of future emergency medical professionals while bolstering the city's commitment to public safety.
Operating every Friday and Saturday night, Safe Space is a vital presence in Worcester's nightlife, dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents, students, and visitors. Since its inception in December 2023, with robust support from local leaders, Worcester BID, and key stakeholders, Safe Space has not only become a cornerstone of the city’s nighttime economy but also embodies a long-term pledge to enhance nightlife safety. With funding secured for at least two years through support from the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Safe Space is set to continue its crucial role in safeguarding Worcester's evenings.
The new partnership with the University of Worcester marks a significant milestone in this initiative. The collaboration will provide paramedic students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in a dynamic, real-world setting right in the heart of Worcester City Centre. Safe Space, which handles a range of incidents each month, will now serve as a comprehensive training ground for these future paramedics, allowing them to apply their skills in a fast-paced environment.
Mark Gillett, Course Lead and Lecturer for Paramedic Science at the University of Worcester, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative: " The new placement opportunity that has been provided by Worcester BID and Safe Space, will offer student paramedics invaluable experiences. The opportunity to see and speak with a wide variety of the community will enhance their learning and ultimately patient care."
Samantha McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID, added: “This innovative collaboration highlights Worcester’s commitment to both improving public safety and the professional development of its future which studies at Worcester University. By integrating academic training with practical experience, the partnership is set to deliver significant benefits to the students, the Safe Space initiative, and the community as a whole.”
We look forward to students beginning placements with us in the new school year, starting September alongside our dedicated medical professional Safe Space staff.
Worcester BID Enhances Daytime Economy with Extra Summer Initiatives
Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) has rolled out a series of strategic initiatives to boost the daytime economy and support local businesses during the busy summer holidays. Recognising the increased footfall and operational pressures faced by businesses during peak footfall periods, Worcester BID has extended key services and introduced new measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for both residents and visitors.
One of the standout initiatives is the enhanced hours of Safe Space operation. Safe Space is typically available between 10 PM and 4 AM on Friday and Saturday evenings, but during this summer break, our Safe Space is now operational every weekday, Monday to Friday, throughout the daytime! This change aims to provide immediate assistance and support to individuals during the peak hours of city centre activity and has already dealt with many medical and welfare support cases.
In addition to Safe Space Worcester's increased availability, Worcester BID has significantly bolstered its standard city safety measures by deploying two additional Safer Streets Officers. These officers will patrol the streets from 9 am to 9 pm, offering extended coverage to deter anti-social behaviour and ensure a secure environment for shoppers and business owners. This proactive approach aims to create a safer, more welcoming atmosphere in the city centre, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Recognising the importance of engaging younger audiences during the holidays, Worcester BID has also organised a range of youth engagement activities. These activities, available three days a week, include interactive and creative sessions such as colouring, penguin painting in celebration of the Waddle of Worcester Art Trail, and felt making. These activities are designed to keep children entertained, allowing families to enjoy all that Worcester has to offer.
Moreover, The Base will host various activities every Thursday as part of a comprehensive summer programme for 11–17-year-olds. These events contribute to a vibrant and dynamic city atmosphere, providing additional support and engagement opportunities for local businesses and visitors.
By implementing these initiatives, Worcester BID demonstrates its commitment to fostering a thriving local economy and creating a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone. The enhanced security measures and diverse range of activities not only support businesses but also enrich the community experience during the bustling summer months.
For more information on these initiatives and to stay updated on all Worcester BID activities, visit the Worcester BID website and follow us on social media @worcesterbid on Twitter and Facebook, and @makeitworc on Instagram!
Worcester's New Sound Trail Celebrates Three Choirs Festival’s Return to City
This summer, Worcester is set to enchant locals and visitors alike with a unique musical journey through the city, courtesy of the Worcester BID in collaboration with the historic Three Choirs Festival.
Running from July 27 to August 3, the Worcester Sounds Trail is an immersive experience that combines the city’s vibrant culture with its rich musical heritage. As part of the Three Choirs Festival, this trail will feature an array of performances and interactive installations throughout business locations in Worcester. There are 15 shield shapes trail stickers to find and 3 special gold ones, displaying key highlighted artists from the festival!
The Three Choirs Festival, one of the oldest classical choral music festivals in the world, dating back to 1715, returns to Worcester this year, promising an exceptional lineup of choral and orchestral performances. In conjunction with this prestigious event, the Worcester Sounds Trail aims to extend the festival's reach beyond traditional concert halls, inviting the community to explore the city's scenic spots while enjoying live music.
Visitors can expect a variety of performances from local and international artists, set against the backdrop of Worcester’s historic landmarks. Enjoy the music in the bustling city centre by taking the trail, offering a perfect blend of music and exploration, providing an engaging and dynamic way for city-goers to experience the festival's spirit.
The initiative not only celebrates Worcester's rich musical legacy with its ties to Elgar, but also supports local businesses by encouraging festivalgoers to explore shops, cafes, and restaurants along the trail. Worcester BID's efforts aim to boost the local economy while enhancing the cultural fabric of the city. Did you know that Worcester is over 67% independent?
Participants can access the trail map through the Worcester BID website or pick up guides at trail locations throughout the city, at the Three Choirs Festival Box Office or from the Tourist Information Centre located at the Guildhall.
The Worcester Sounds Trail is poised to be a musical highlight of the summer, offering a delightful fusion of music, history, and community spirit.
For more information on the Worcester Sounds Trail and the Three Choirs Festival, visit https://www.worcesterbid.com/2024/05/09/worcester-sounds-3cf/
The Penguin Patrol is Recruiting: Worcester to welcome 100 Young Guardians
On Monday, July 29th, Worcester will see a flurry of excitement as 100 children join the Penguin Patrol at Angel Place from 12:30 PM. This event marks the beginning of a unique initiative designed to engage the city’s young residents with The Waddle of Worcester art trail and its ongoing care.
The BID Safer Streets team, in collaboration with West Mercia Police’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, will host the Penguin Patrol Event, where children will receive police-style helmets and penguin stickers. The highlight of the event will be the teaching of the ‘Waddle Drill,’ ensuring that young participants learn the best ways to treat the penguin sculptures with care and respect.
This initiative is a proud partnership between Worcester BID, West Mercia Police, and The Waddle of Worcester.
Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Worcester, Tanya Beckett, said: “We are delighted to support our community partners at Worcester BID during St Richard’s Hospice’s Waddle of Worcester art trail this summer and give the young people of the city a chance to go out on ‘Penguin Patrol’.
Please look out for our engagement van when you bring your family along to the trail for the chance to get some fun freebies for your budding police cadets!
This summer we will also continue to be working with partners at Worcester BID, Worcester University, Worcester Street Pastors, and other key organisations to run the Safe Space providing safer nights for vulnerable individuals.
The Safe Space mobile van serves as a haven at night, offering first response first aid care, reducing the strain on the NHS in the A&E department during night-time economy hours.”
Samantha McCarthy, CEO for Worcester BID added: “We’re thrilled to launch the Penguin Patrol initiative, inviting 100 young guardians to join us in caring for The Waddle of Worcester art trail. This event embodies our community spirit and dedication to further engaging our youth in meaningful, creative projects. Together with West Mercia Police and St Richard’s Hospice, we aim to foster a sense of pride and responsibility in our young visitors and look forward to seeing the enthusiasm and care our future penguin protectors will bring to this exciting initiative!”
Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to have Penguin Patrollers helping to keep our huddle happy out on the streets of Worcester.
“Please treat every member of the waddle with love and care by not climbing on them or hanging off their beaks. This will ensure our giant penguins raise as much as possible for local hospice care and our chicks return to the schools and community groups who painted them in tip-top condition.
“If you see any damage or anything of concern please report it using the number on each penguin’s plinth.”
We look forward to seeing you on the 29th of July at 12:30 PM at Angel Place future penguin protectors!
Find out more and take the trail at https://waddleofworcester.co.uk/
BID and Lightbox Partner to Launch "The Base"
This summer, the Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) has teamed up with Lightbox to introduce an exciting new initiative called “The Base.” This program is designed to provide a dedicated space for local teenagers aged 11-17, managed by local volunteers.
Starting Thursday, July 25th, The Base will be open weekly, every Thursday, during the summer holidays from 1 pm to 5 pm at The Granary, Worcester. The initiative aims to offer a safe and supportive environment where young people can relax, have fun, and connect with their peers.
The Base will feature a variety of activities to keep attendees entertained. Each week The Base will offer different activities, such as cage football, Xbox Series S gaming tournaments, nail art sessions, and graffiti workshops, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Additionally, table tennis, a pool table, a chill-out zone, and free Wi-Fi will be available each week.
Stephanie Boyd, a volunteer at Lightbox, emphasised the initiative’s goal: “As churches across Worcester, we want to create space and opportunity for young people to connect and know there is a place for them and people here for them. We do this through LIGHTBOX pop-ups in schools, colleges, after-school drop-ins, and collaborative youth events.”
Sam McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID, shared her enthusiasm for the project: “We are thrilled to partner with Lightbox to create a hub for young people at the heart of our city over the summer. This initiative will provide great opportunities for positive youth engagement and give teens a dedicated, free space during peak footfall times.”
In addition to The Base, BID is also providing activities for younger children at Crowngate Pod, offering arts and crafts sessions from Monday through Wednesday.
If The Base proves successful, the partnership aims to offer more holiday events like this in the future.
No booking is required to attend any sessions at The Base—just pop in with a friend or come and make new ones!
For more information about The Base and other activities, please visit Worcester BID’s social media channels, @worcesterbid, or follow The Base on TikTok @TheBaseWorcs.
The Commandery, Worcester welcomes new café operator
The Commandery is very pleased to announce a new operator for its café. Alex Daw, of Little Al’s Kitchen, is set to open a brand-new café on site on Tuesday 2 July.
Alex is very used to opening cafés in historic buildings as he already operates the successful Balcony Café at Worcester’s Art Gallery & Museum. The café will be known as Little Al’s Kitchen at The Commandery.
Set in the heart of historic Worcester, The Commandery is one of the city’s key visitor attractions. Most famous for being the Royalist Headquarters during the Battle of Worcester in 1651 it has also been a monastic hospital, family home, a college for the blind, and housed the Littlebury Printworks before becoming today’s museum revealing significant stories of Worcester’s history. The café occupies an idyllic and peaceful setting in its own gardens, overlooking the canal and just a short walk from the city’s bustling High Street.
Museums Worcestershire’s Audiences Manager, Helen Large says: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Little Al’s Kitchen to The Commandery. The café is a key part of the visitor experience and Alex understands what makes a successful café both for visitors to the museum and for his regular customers. Everyone wants excellent customer service with a good cup of coffee, home-made cake or lunch in a beautiful setting!”
Alex’s commitment to operating in an environmentally friendly way has already seen his business win the Visit Worcestershire Sustainable Tourism award.
Alex Daw of Little Al’s Kitchen says: “We are so excited to be building on our current partnership with Museums Worcestershire by taking on the café at The Commandery. We’ll be serving homemade cakes and treats and our fantastic locally roasted own-blend coffee, and we’ll also be developing a whole new menu based around local suppliers to bring the best of Worcestershire to the heart of the city. We can’t wait to welcome familiar faces and new customers.”
For opening times and further information, please visit museumsworcestershire.org.uk.
Worcester Unveils Largest City Installation with Vibrant Displays
Worcester BID is thrilled to announce the completion of their largest city installation to date!
Worcester is now ablaze with colour as the summer aerial displays have been installed throughout the city. The vibrant bunting, featuring the distinctive Worcester Colour Palette by Stacey Barnfield, celebrates the city’s rich heritage and has been prominently displayed across various locations.
The displays include giant palette board decorations, classic summer bunting, and giant mesh spheres suspended overhead. This exciting initiative by Worcester BID aims to create livelier and more engaging city streets, already enticing many to book long weekends in the city to enjoy the displays.
This year, Worcester BID has installed displays on 8 city centre streets, including The Shambles, The Hopmarket, Reindeer Court, Broad Street, New Street, Friar Street, Mealcheapen Street, and St. Swithin’s. The Worcester Colour Palette, inspired by Worcester’s landmarks and history, features colours such as Elgar Bronze, Saucy Orange, Hive Gold, Cathedral Stone, Diglis Deep Blue, and Pear Black, reflecting the city’s vibrancy and diversity.
Stacey Barnfield, designer of the Worcester Colour Palette, said: “It’s so wonderful to see how Worcester BID has creatively adopted the Colour Palette concept with the new displays and bunting. The colour palette is all about celebrating the local history, people and places that make our areas so special to us, and this latest installation by Worcester BID does it so well.”
The Colour Palette was first used by The Arts Society Worcester in collaboration with WCRP, Worcester BID, and local partners through a project aiming to enhance Worcester’s first impression for visitors arriving by train at Foregate Street Station and additionally promoting local artistic talent. This project also supports wayfinding with maps positioned by stairwells, guiding visitors to explore the vibrant city.
Local businesses have enthusiastically supported the initiative, with Justin, Owner of Ware, commenting, “The installation of aerial displays in Reindeer Court is wonderful, tying the Court in with the city colour palette. Small businesses benefit enormously from increased footfall brought about by Worcester BID initiatives such as this—giving another reason to visit Reindeer Court!”
Other businesses, like Bottles Wine Bar and Merchants, have praised the displays on New Street and Friar Street, saying, “The displays have brought a new lease of life to New Street and Friar Street, a lovely representation of the community and creativity that Worcester shines with! Summer has arrived!”
Jennifer from ArrangeMYescape added, “What a fantastic and different way for our city to really stand out! It’s not only colourful but educational. A real celebration of what Worcestershire is all about.”
Bill Simpson, Trustee at The Hopmarket Charity said: “We are delighted to be part of Worcester BID’s initiative to bring colour and vibrancy into The Hopmarket; not only does it look fabulous it also brings the city’s history and heritage to life. We hope it encourages more visitors to our courtyard space over the summer months.”
Looking ahead, Worcester BID will continue to enhance the cityscape with more projects, including revitalising areas like a patch of land on the junction between Lower Broad Street and Deansway, turning it into a haven for bugs and fauna, and further art enhancements to improve tagged areas of the city.
If you are a landlord or own an area in the city that needs some TLC, please contact us at info@worcesterbid.com.
The Euros are HERE! & Operation Hubble Downloads
The Euros start tonight!
It’s Coming to Worcester
With the excitement building for UEFA Euro 2024, Worcester’s city centre offers some great spots where fans can watch the matches and soak in the atmosphere with some great food and drink.
Venues to Watch Euro 2024 in Worcester
- Mode Sports Bar and Grill: Featuring LOTS of big screens and a spacious outdoor garden.
- O’Neill’s: Known for its lively atmosphere and HD screens, perfect for enjoying the Euros with food and drinks.
- Craft Inn: Offering a vast selection of craft beer, with online reservations providing drinks credit and free half-time food.
- The Horn and Trumpet: A traditional pub with live game screenings and food and drink specials.
- The Kings Head: Located on Sidbury, this venue offers courtyard screenings and a great pint of Guinness.
To ensure you don’t miss any of the action, check out our local pub guide tips below…
- Arrive Early: Popular big-screen venues can fill up quickly, especially for England games. Booking where possible and arriving early ensures you get a good seat. Maybe go for food first!
- Check Reservations: Most venues showing the games in the city accept table bookings, so it’s worth checking in advance to secure your spot!
- Special Promotions: Support your local venues and look out for special promotions on food and drinks during match days.
We hope you enjoy the Euros in Worcester’s City Centre pubs! But to keep you safe whilst you do so, West Mercia Police has launched “Operation Hubble,” a proactive initiative designed to ensure public safety and manage crowds during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament. As football fever grips the nation, Operation Hubble is working to ensure that everyone can enjoy the matches in a safe environment. You will see increased patrols in busy areas, collaboration with local venues hosting match viewings, and a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol-related incidents.
Businesses interested in showcasing Operation Hubble on their social media or premises can access a variety of downloadable resources from West Mercia Police below.
Press the image to open up a downloadable copy.
Discover the Charm of Reindeer Court in Worcester
Nestled in the heart of Worcester, Reindeer Court is a hidden gem full of thriving independent and locally owned businesses. Whether you enter from New Street, Mealcheapen Street, or The Shambles, you’ll find yourself immersed in a community that prides itself on offering unique products and services, fostering a delightful shopping and dining experience.
A haven for locally run and family-owned businesses, Reindeer Court is home to an eclectic mix of shops you won’t want to miss, including:
- Hugo and Ted: Offering a handmade selection of doggie goods that you won’t find elsewhere.
- The Wildling Collective: Perfect for those seeking a family-friendly café and play space.
- Ware: A must-visit for stylish and mid-century homeware.
- Bottles Wine Shop: Ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to explore a wide range of quality wines.
- Gem’s Traditional Thai Massage & Beauty Therapy: A sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering authentic Thai massage and treatments.
- Jaks Coffee Shop: A cosy spot to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a snack.
- Paw & Co: Pet lovers will adore this shop and café which caters to the needs of their furry friends.
- Plantamamita: For those with a green thumb, this store offers a variety of plants and gifts.
- Fuel Clothing: A fashion haven offering curated stylish apparel for women.
- Embrace Boutique: A boutique offering a specialist service to women affected by cancer, those undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and women experiencing hair loss.
- Elgars Coffee Shop: An excellent spot for a relaxing coffee break with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Hangar CAFE: Known for its delicious food, cakes and courtyard seating.
- David Jon Hairdressing: Professional hairdressing services to keep you looking your best.
- Ian Quartermaine Jewellers: A reputable jeweller offering exquisite pieces and expert craftsmanship.
- Reindeer Court Dental: Providing comprehensive dental care in a friendly setting, opening soon!
- Natural Definition: Specialising in beauty treatments and beauty services.
- SJ Footcare: Providing professional foot care services.
- Dragons Barbershop: Traditional barber services with a modern twist.
- Starseed Kitchen: A unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, all-vegan ingredients.
- About You: A gorgeous beauty and aesthetics venue.
- Fox and Fortune Tattoo: A professional tattoo studio known for its artistry and attention to detail.
- Fashion Nails & Spa: Offering top-notch nail and spa services.
Next time you’re in Worcester, make sure to wander through Reindeer Court. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a relaxing beauty treatment, or simply a great cup of coffee, you’ll find it all here.
Don’t forget to share your finds and experiences using the hashtag #reindeercourt!
Reflecting on One Year of the BID Safer Streets Initiative
Worcester remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing partnerships and delivering ongoing support to foster a thriving and safe business community.
This partnership includes West Mercia Police, who have recently executed Operation Sceptre with remarkable success, resulting in the recovery of 446 knives. This operation, which engaged with schools and communities, provided knife surrender points to eliminate potential weapons from our streets.
Recently, a programme from West Merica Police and Worcester SNT called Operation Forefront, saw Worcester BID attend the morning Police briefing and conduct business visits within our local retailers, whilst our Safer Streets officer provided medical support and added increased visibility. The increased visibility achieved through Operation Forefront was great to see, and we saw the beneficial outcomes first-hand to the public, businesses, residents, and visitors.
Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) is marking a year’s milestone in Worcester’s security landscape. Wayne Price, the Safer Streets Officer for BID, has now provided an extra layer of security in the city centre for one year. Since June 20th, 2023, Price’s role has been instrumental in supporting businesses city-wide, collaborating with security personnel, such as Cathedral Square and Crowngate teams and West Mercia Police City SNT to implement initiatives and interventions. Here’s a comprehensive overview of their year-long endeavours:
– Instances of Stoppage/Recovery: 68
– Provision of First Aid: 19 cases
– Deterrence Actions: 88 incidents
– Intelligence Gathering/Monitoring: 26 cases
– Ensuring Staff Safety: 7 instances
– Assisting Police/Witness Arrests: 24 occasions
– Engaging with Homeless Individuals and Welfare Checks: 19 instances
– Conducting Training Sessions: 29 engagements
– Combatting Fraud: 8 cases
– Dealing with Sales of Stolen Goods: 6 incidents
– Handling Missing Persons Reports: 2 cases
– Enforcing Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO): 21 actions
– Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB): 42 interventions
– Recovery of Stock and Money: Totalling £20,100.95
The financial impact of the Safer Streets Officer is substantial, with a total recovery of £20,100.95 in stock and money for businesses and city dwellers throughout the year. Notable peaks in recoveries, such as October 2023 (£2979.36) and May 2024 (£2768.95), underscore the value of this initiative in supporting the city’s commercial landscape.
Worcester BID is committed to continuing the Safer Streets Officer role to address the evolving needs and objectives of local businesses and partners, ensuring continued progress in all partner objectives in making Worcester a safer place.
Aerial Displays to Brighten Worcester This Summer
Worcester is about to get a vibrant splash of colour as summer aerial displays return to the city at the end of June!
In an effort by Worcester BID beloved bunting will be back in our city’s streets. These vivid bunting displays will feature the distinctive Worcester Colour Palette, created by The Colour Palette Company, celebrating the city’s rich heritage with hues named Elgar Bronze, Saucy Orange, Hive Gold, Cathedral Stone, Diglis Deep Blue, and Pear Black.
This colourful initiative ties in with the new artwork by local artist Estee Angeline at Foregate Street Station unveiled in March. This art project, spearheaded by The Art Society Worcester and its chairperson Maggie Keeble, involved a coalition of local partners, including Worcestershire’s Community Rail Partnership, Worcester BID, and The Colour Palette Company, with support from West Midlands Railways and the Community Rail Network.
Continuing the city’s seasonal eye-catching displays, Worcester BID is also set to install a stunning new exhibition on Friar Street and New Street. Building on the success of last year’s popular umbrella display, which garnered international attention, this year will see giant mesh spheres suspended from the wiring. The infrastructure that allows for these displays was first put up in 2021 via extensive work from the BID, allowing the street to be vibrantly activated for the first time. This infrastructure has allowed BID to add year-round festoon lighting, dazzling Christmas displays, and whimsical summer decorations like umbrellas, lampshades, watering cans, ladybirds, and topiary balls, making the street a hit with photographers and selfie-takers.
The new aerial displays will be installed in the city over three days and will be ready to dazzle residents and visitors alike just in time for summer.
Get ready, Worcester—our city streets are about to become more vibrant than ever! Who else is excited?
The latest news: Exciting Summer Events Coming to Worcester!
Worcester is set for a vibrant and exciting summer with a multitude of fantastic events!
Worcester BID is thrilled to partner with the Waddle of Worcester as the Community and Education Partner. This unique event will bring creatively designed penguin sculptures to the city and aims to foster local pride and community engagement, enhancing the vibrancy of Worcester while boosting footfall, dwell time, and spending in the city. As part of the initiative, Worcester BID will place baby penguin sculptures in business windows, integrating the trail with the business community and highlighting its commitment to educational and cultural initiatives. This effort will also support vital fundraising for St. Richard’s Hospice.
Additionally, Worcester BID is organising a summer window art trail across 50 city centre business windows, themed on the penguin trail. This will bring extra vibrancy to the city, support local businesses, and paint the town penguin!
Another highlight of the summer is the return of the historic Three Choirs Festival from July 27 to August 3. Known as one of the world’s oldest classical choral music festivals, this year’s event will explore the theme of the natural world, celebrating compositions inspired by Earth’s landscapes and seascapes. With performances from renowned musicians and choirs, as well as premieres of contemporary works, the festival is a cultural gem for Worcester, enriching the city’s artistic scene and boosting local tourism.
In an exciting collaboration, Worcester BID and the Three Choirs Festival will be introducing a music trail this summer. This interactive experience allows participants to explore the works of historic and contemporary composers featured at the festival by scanning QR codes on shields displayed in business windows. Participants can listen to music instantly or access detailed information about the artists and the full trail through a comprehensive Linktree. With 15 boards to discover, including three special gold ones, this trail brings the festival further into the city, promoting footfall and adding a unique dimension to Worcester’s cultural festivities.
This summer, Worcester promises a season filled with creativity! Stay tuned for more details in this special edition of Worcester Sounds.
Activating the city of Worcester: why do Worcester BID do it?
Worcester boasts a diverse array of urban spaces, ranging from Tudor housing and cobbled paths to the modern design of the Hive building. Yet, amidst this diversity, there is a common thread—activation of space. This concept lies at the heart of a thriving city. But what exactly does it entail?
In recent years, Worcester BID has led transformative initiatives across the cityscape. From captivating aerial displays on New Street, Friar Street, and the Shambles to the addition of extra festive lighting on Broad Street, street art on wayfinding signs, and the introduction of vibrant city planters and year-round floral displays, these endeavours are examples of activation of space. Looking ahead, Worcester BID plans to further invigorate neglected areas, transforming a neglected overgrown area at the base of Broad Street into a green space teeming with biodiversity and increasing the number of striking city artworks. Such initiatives not only enhance the visual appeal of the city but also serve to increase dwell time and footfall, cultivating a vibrant and dynamic urban environment for all to enjoy.
Dwell time, the duration individuals spend in a specific location, holds significance for businesses and communities alike. By transforming city spaces—such as converting neglected corners into lush green areas with seating—Worcester can create inviting environments that encourage prolonged engagement.
The activation of spaces naturally leads to an upsurge in footfall. When areas undergo revitalisation through attractive enhancements, people are drawn to explore and discover. This surge in pedestrian traffic translates into tangible benefits for local businesses, offering fresh marketing opportunities and ultimately driving sales. An example is The Big Spring Window Trail, featuring 50 beautifully hand-drawn floral business windows. Visitors can download a map for this free floral trail from Worcester BID’s website (www.worcesterbid.com/2024/04/02/thebigspring) and share their experiences using the hashtag #TheBigSpring.
Beyond the economic benefits, activating spaces also enhances Worcester’s aesthetic appeal. Beautifying neglected areas through greening and rewilding, public art, and creative lighting not only makes the city more visually appealing but also instils a sense of pride among residents whilst creating memorable experiences for both locals and visitors.
In conclusion, activating Worcester’s spaces is not just about improving aesthetics; it’s about creating dynamic, inclusive, and thriving urban environments. By enhancing dwell time, increasing footfall, and improving the city’s appearance, Worcester can unlock its full potential as a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
Funding the Future: What do you want to see Worcester do next?
Worcester’s transformation owes much to effective city centre management and strategic funding allocation. Four primary funding streams are driving Worcester’s progress: the Future High Streets Fund (£17.9 million), UK Shared Prosperity Fund (£2.96 million), Cultural Development Fund (£3 million), and Levelling Up Funding, with recent news of an additional £5 million injection into Worcester’s cultural landscape, bringing total capital funding over five years to £46 million for Levelling up funding alone.
Since 2019, Levelling Up Funding has been used to revitalise unused spaces like the train arches into vibrant venues for dining, arts, and activities, contributing to Worcester’s cultural growth. The recent £5 million boost will sustain this momentum, facilitating more art projects and community initiatives.
In 2019, Worcester City Council secured £3 million from the Cultural Development Fund to enhance Worcester’s profile as a visitor destination, foster festivals like Light Night, and support local businesses. Festivals such as the Victorian Fayre and Paint Festival have become integral to Worcester’s cultural tapestry, drawing diverse crowds.
To ensure continued funding, collaboration with entities like Arts Council England is essential for sustaining Worcester’s festival momentum and visitor influx.
Worcester BID is seeking ways to sustain the momentum by creating dedicated spaces for youth engagement and promoting discussions on implementation tailored to residents, visitors, and students between city partners. The success of initiatives like Teenage Markets in other regions underscores the potential for similar models in Worcester. Championed by Councillor Joe Bennett, Teenage Markets empower young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and sell goods at public markets run by teenagers for the community.
As we contemplate Worcester’s future, community input is invaluable. What are your thoughts on providing dedicated spaces for young people in Worcester? What other initiatives would you like to see?
Let’s envision a Worcester that thrives for all its residents.
Worcester BID's Safer Streets Officer: Making a Difference
In the bustling heart of Worcester, the Worcester BID’s Safer Streets officer is working diligently to ensure safety and security for businesses and visitors alike. Since June 20th, 2023, the Worcester Business Improvement District’s (BID) Safer Streets Officer has been patrolling and intervening, making a significant impact on the community.
The officer’s efforts have not only prevented losses but also led to the recovery of significant amounts of stolen stock and money, providing much-needed relief to affected businesses and individuals, with the total stolen stock and money recovered now totalling £15,803.14!
The successes of the Worcester BIDs Safer Streets Officer stem from great partnership working. Collaborating with West Merica Police, central security teams such as Crowngate and Cathedral Square and various stakeholders, their efforts are emblematic of a collective resolve to foster safer shared spaces in Worcester. By pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise, all parties have been working hard to address community safety comprehensively, deploying proactive strategies and interventions to mitigate risks, prevent incidents, and ensure the well-being of residents and visitors alike.
The Worcester BIDs Safer Streets Officer has attended and accomplished the following during these 9 months:
- 64 theft incidents attended
- 59 stops/recoveries
- 16 first aid interventions
- 88 offences deterred
- 19 counts of intelligence gathering and monitoring
- 5 active interventions ensuring staff safety
- 21 counts of assisting Police and witnessing arrests
- 17 assistances with homeless and welfare checks
- 27 counts of training provision
- 8 counts of combatting fraud and illegal activities
- 6 counts curbing sales of stolen goods
- 2 missing persons cases assisted with
- 21 enforcements of PSPO regulations
The Safer Streets Officer role within Worcester BID has provided an additional layer of protection for the business community, residents, and visitors. By effectively collaborating with partners, they have helped to enhance the city’s security landscape, creating a safer environment for all.
Read more about Worcester BID’s safety measures on their website at www.worcesterbid.com/promote/safer-city.
The Big Spring: Download the Map and take the Trail!
Spring has officially arrived in Worcester! With 50 windows now adorned with festive decorations by local artist Catt Standen, we’re thrilled to present the trail map to everyone. Embark on a city walk and discover the stunning floral displays on our business windows this Easter—a delightful, cost-free adventure for the family. Access the BID trail map below!
Download the map PDF here: Spring Window Art Map 
Remember to share your photos with us by tagging @makeitworc on Instagram, or @worcesterbid on Facebook and Twitter, and use the hashtag #thebigspring!
Safe Space Worcester: From Strength To Strength
Worcester BID has now released the newest Safe Space stats! Safe Space, a moving venue of compassion and care takes to our streets every Friday and Saturday night, as well as during events, providing a safe environment for residents, students, and visitors alike.
Safe Space is an organisation run by a team of dedicated professionals. It’s not just a physical location in the form of a Safe Space vehicle, but a helping hand for anyone in need. Safe Space welcomes everyone with open arms, free of charge, and has already helped nearly 100 city-goers (as of the end of February 2024 since December 15, 2023). The ethos of Safe Space is simple: to offer medical and welfare support without any preconceived notions.
According to the latest statistics, Safe Space has looked after a total of 98 events. Within these events, they have provided care in various categories: welfare (34 cases (35%)), medical (48 cases (49%)), mental health (8 cases (8%)), police assistance (1 case (1%)), and enquiry (7 cases (7%)). These figures underscore the breadth of Safe Space’s reach and the diverse range of support it offers to the community.
Sam McCarthy, Worcester BID CEO said, “We are proud to serve the community via Safe Space Worcester and would like to thank all of our primary and supporting partners for their assistance in making this project possible.”
In addition to ensuring the safety and well-being of 98 individuals in Worcester, the interventions and care delivered by the Safe Space team have resulted in a notable decrease in ambulance callouts, saving the NHS a minimum of £9500. This figure is conservative, denoting the minimum amount saved according to NHS data regarding the cost of an ambulance call-out. However, the actual amount saved may be much higher than the stated figure. This fantastic stat provides an additional layer of justification for the need for Safe Space in Worcester’s nighttime economy, highlighting the tangible impact of Safe Space on both public health, nighttime business operations and financial resources.
Since its inaugural night, the Safe Space team have received fabulous feedback from stakeholders, parents, friends, partners, Police Teams, and Safe Space users. Richard Nash, lead medic at Safe Space Worcester said, “The initiative has certainly shown its worth over the first 3 months of operation and we are looking forward to providing ongoing support and welfare.”
Worcester BID, Safe Space partners and the Safe Space team have collectively expressed commitment to providing sustained support and care to the community moving forward.
For more information and to stay up to date, follow Safe Space on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Take a look at our latest stats in the below infographic.
Safe Space works to provide operational support for the NTE
Safe Space is operated by a team of dedicated professionals, extending medical support, welfare support or otherwise and offering this without any preconceived notions. Safe Space is free to all, no judgement and is working to promote a positive view of Worcester City Centre as a safe destination for a night out, to live and to study. This is bolstered by our work on becoming Purple Flag accredited.
Take a look at our latest stats in the below infographic.
The Big Spring Has Fully Bloomed in Worcester! 🌸🌻🌼🌷
We are busy installing 50 giant florals around Worcester this spring! There are 5 beautiful designs including daisies, tulips and gorgeous forget-me-nots.
Share your new business window artwork with us by hashtagging #thebigspring and tagging @worcesterbid on Facebook and Twitter or @makeitworc on Instagram.
Find the helpful map with all the flowery locations below!
Worcester BID's Cleaner Streets Initiative: Enhancing Our Spaces
We all share a responsibility to uphold the beauty of our city, taking pride in our municipal spaces. Unfortunately, urban areas often fall victim to graffiti tagging, chewing gum, litter such as cigarette butts, and other forms of damage, detracting from their aesthetic appeal and contributing to urban decay.
To combat these challenges and instil a sense of city pride, Worcester BID is launching the Cleaner Streets project. Beginning in April 2024 and extending through the summer months, this initiative aims to transform neglected, damaged, and graffitied spaces into vibrant works of art for the enjoyment of all.
The Cleaner Streets project encompasses various strategies, including the removal of graffiti from brickwork, improvements in lighting where needed, and the promotion of responsible mural and urban art through converting unloved areas into community and business district reflective works of art.
Over the past two years, Worcester BID has already invested in enhancing the city’s visual landscape through the artwork seen on utility boxes and wayfinding signage, as well as via the organisation of workshops and mural painting events in community hubs.
Looking ahead, Worcester BID is committed to implementing prevention methods such as resistant coatings and ongoing maintenance to ensure a welcoming and fresh street scene for years to come. Throughout the Cleaner Streets campaign, success stories will be shared, showcasing the transformative impact of these efforts on our social media accounts. Additionally, Worcester BID is dedicated to collaborating with and celebrating the contributions of local artists and the community. By involving residents and businesses in the creation of public art we hope to foster a collective sense of ownership and pride.
The ultimate goal of the Cleaner Streets Project is to cultivate more vibrant urban spaces while reducing and repairing damage in the city centre. Worcester BID invites talented local artists to join in this endeavour by reaching out on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram if you would like to participate in shaping a brighter future for our city.
Together, let’s make Worcester’s streets cleaner, more attractive and a source of pride for all who call it home. Join us in this transformative journey towards a more vibrant urban environment by following us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn [@WorcesterBID] or on Instagram [@makeitworc].
All Aboard: Foregate Street Station gets a new lease of life
Foregate Street Art is in!
Last Thursday we launched the new partnership artwork at Foregate Street Station with an evening at the fantastic JNCTN.
Over the last six months, we have worked to support The Arts Society Worcester and partners in bringing a new display to the city, enhancing the first appearance of Worcester when arriving by train and showcasing local artist talent. The art also helps with wayfinding with maps positioned by stairwells and promotes our vibrant city to all who pass through.
Find out more by pressing here!
Make sure to pop down to Foregate Street Station to have a look!
Worcester BID's new Safer Streets Role leads to £15,803 recovered
Worcester’s success in combatting retail theft is backed by tangible statistics.
From June 20th, 2023, to March 20th, 2024, Worcester BID’s Safer Streets Officer reported 59 instances of asset and monetary recovery and 88 cases of deterrence within the business district. This dedicated officer actively addresses anti-social behaviour, particularly in hot-spot areas, and supports staff in reporting crimes, contributing to a substantial recovery of £15,803.00 in just over eight months.
Other support given by the Safer Streets Officer is as follows:
- First aid 16
- Intelligence/Monitoring 19
- Staff safety 5 [Where staff members have felt uncomfortable in certain situations so have shown presence or ejected offenders]
- Assistance with authorities/ Witness arrests 21
- Homelessness Advice/Interaction 17
- Fraud 8
- Stolen Goods 6
- Missing & Vulnerable Persons 2
- PSPO [Public Spaces Protection Orders] 21
Through collaborative efforts and heightened awareness, Worcester’s partners have effectively intensified the targeting of retail theft, working towards safer streets for everyone. It is great to see that there is a national push to reduce retail theft, and even better to see that Worcester’s endeavours have already yielded success in combatting retail theft. The city is committed to further cultivating partnerships and providing ongoing efforts that support businesses to flourish.
Resilient Businesses: Navigating Flood Challenges in Worcester
Worcester, situated along the River Severn, faces common flooding due to heavy rains, impacting infrastructure, homes, and businesses alike. The highest recorded flood level at the Worcester measuring station occurred on 26 February 2020, with recent bouts of flooding in January and February causing disruption and damage to local businesses, green spaces, and walkways. Community support is crucial in aiding these resilient businesses to bounce back.
At Worcester BID, we have spoken to some of our local BID businesses that are located on the riverside and are thus often disturbed by flooding.
The effect on businesses can be extensive. Julia Seymour, Director of Diglis House Hotel, said “At the inception of my investment in Diglis House Hotel, the advice concerning flooding at that time, was to expect flooding every 40-50 years. Today flooding is common news.” General Manager of Diglis House Hotel, Debra Jones, added that “the flooding brings disruption to our business from loss of revenue due to access issues, internal flooding, the cost of pump systems as well as clean up to the grounds, the hotel in general and the bedrooms. These must be properly sanitised by special companies each time flooding occurs.”
So, how can we as a community help these resilient businesses to bounce back?
Richard Hill, Manager of Browns at the Quay said “Dealing with the flooding has been an ever-increasing challenge to the business.
One of the main challenges is trying to get across to the public that when we close due to high river levels, we will bounce back very quickly, often in just a couple of days.
There is a perception that once you are affected by flooding you will be closed for many months, whereas we have shown this does not need to be the case. With the correct flood barriers, pumping systems and resilience work it can be managed, preventing serious damage to the building and its interior, enabling us to re-open very quickly and move on with the business.
We think that Worcester as a community has been supportive and hope it continues to be so. Our customers are very understanding when we have to reluctantly close for a period of time. We like to welcome new customers as well as old ones and hope they think of us when deciding where to go after flooding has happened.”
Whilst Worcester has weathered many floods throughout its history, its businesses demonstrate resilience and adaptability, constantly evolving to withstand environmental challenges. It’s crucial to support local businesses by visiting your riverside venues that are open for business, aiding them in minimising the disruptions brought about by flooding incidents.
Worcester Celebrates International Women's Day!
International Women’s Day, which takes place on the 8th of March, is the yearly global celebration of all things women. It’s a day of inspiring talks, worldwide social media buzz, activism, and marches, that look to inspire change and aspire to worldwide gender equality. International Women’s Day was first celebrated in 1911, when women were struggling for their basic rights, seventeen years before they finally earned the right to vote if over the age of 21 in the UK following the Equal Franchise Act of 1928. There is of course still work to be done; according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023, it will take another 131 years to reach gender equality!
Women encounter various forms of unfair treatment across the world today. As per a 2020 UNICEF report, only 66% of countries worldwide offer equal educational opportunities to both genders. Data from a 2020 United Nations report reveals that, despite constituting half of the global population, women occupy less than 30% of high-ranking governmental roles and senior management positions in the business sector. As well as highlighting social injustices, International Women’s Day serves as a platform to demonstrate the immense strength and capability of women and celebrate their accomplishments.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is ‘Inspiring Inclusion.’ So, Worcester BID has taken to the streets, inviting Worcester’s women to join in with the international campaign. Worcester BID’s video, released on International Women’s Day, showcases the women in our city and Business Improvement District who keep the city ticking, through the provision of essential services, strong leadership roles, and as business professionals. There will also be video content from some of our city’s female CEOs, who will provide insights into local leadership. You can watch these videos on Instagram by pressing HERE, or on Facebook, HERE.
Did you know many of our city leaders are female?
> The BID team is 75% female!
> Worcester City Council is under joint leadership from 2 women: Councillors Marjory Bisset and Lynn Denham.
> The City Centre Manager for Worcester is also female.
To name but a few…!
Three Choirs Festival is Coming! Download your poster now!
The World’s Longest Running Music Festival is coming to Worcester in Summer 2024
The Three Choirs Festival is the world’s longest-running music festival, rotating between the cathedral cities of Hereford, Worcester and Gloucester. Since its beginnings in 1715, the festival has provided incredible music which has served as the inspiration for thousands.
The Three Choirs Festival is a week-long programme of world-class music making, featuring choral and orchestral concerts, solo and chamber music recitals, talks, cathedral services, theatre, exhibitions, and walks, rotating each summer between the beautiful English cathedral cities of Gloucester, Hereford, and Worcester. One of the elements which makes the festival so special is the Festival Chorus, which is made up of auditioned singers from the local area trained by professional directors, meaning that the Chorus both sings to a high standard and is a real part of the community. Three Choirs is thought to be the longest-standing classical music festival in the world and celebrated its 300th anniversary in 2015.
“A beacon for music making in our region”
At the heart of the festival are large-scale evening concerts featuring the Festival Chorus and the Philharmonia Orchestra (resident at the festival since 2012). Concert programmes feature internationally recognised soloists and combine favourites of the classical choral tradition with the best new music of our time. The Three Choirs Festival Youth Choir performs a major cathedral concert with the Philharmonia Orchestra every year, giving a unique opportunity to young singers in our region to rehearse and perform to a high standard with expert direction.
Next year, the festival is in Worcester. Learn more about what’s in store on their website: Home | Three Choirs Festival (3choirs.org).
If you want to display a poster in your business, please download it here: A3 / A4
If you would like a hard copy, please email us at info@worcesterbid.com to request a drop up or pick up.
Martyn's Law: Ensuring Security for Worcester Businesses
The consultation phase for Martyn’s Law, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is now underway, representing a crucial opportunity for Worcester’s business community to contribute to enhanced security measures.
Named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester bombing, this legislation aims to mandate venue owners to assess terrorism threats and implement appropriate and robust measures. The legislation ensures readiness and response training for individuals in the event of an attack. Enhanced security systems, staff training, and clearer processes aim to deliver better protection, aligning with government responses to the Manchester Arena Inquiry. The bill will be passed under a tiered framework, meaning different types of businesses will be mandated to undertake different measures.
Under Martyn’s Law, proprietors of standard-tier premises in Worcester, covering sites with capacities ranging from 100
to 799 individuals, must fulfil key requirements. This is the most common business type in Worcester that will be affected by the new bill. Standard-tier businesses will need to notify the Regulator of their responsibility for the premises and namely, implement procedural measures to mitigate the risk of harm to individuals in the event of an attack. Notably, the revised Bill eliminates the need for specified forms, prescribed training, or physical alterations to equipment, reducing disruption to most Worcester city centre local business operations.
Business owners and stakeholders in Worcester are urged to engage in the Government’s consultation process, offering insights to inform the finalisation of this legislation. This initiative strongly resonates with Worcester BID’s dedication to cultivating a safer environment. Through expanded training initiatives, including our Catastrophic Bleed Courses, heightened safety measures, and the improved utilisation of the CCTV-integrated business radio network, CityNet, we aim to enhance security measures. Additionally, our collaborative endeavours, such as Safe Space, underscore our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members at work, as residents and whilst enjoying all that our city has to offer.
Your input will contribute to the Government’s endeavour to enhance public safety and national security. As this Bill impacts Worcester businesses, it’s essential to be prepared for the changes it brings. Martyn’s Law is a legislative step in the right direction, but it needs your stakeholder input. You can participate in the consultation via the government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/martyns-law-standard-tier-consultation.
Worcester's 2023 Foot Traffic Soars Despite Regional Downturn
A recent release of an annual report by Place Informatics has cast a spotlight on the foot traffic trends across 12 UK regions in 2023. This comprehensive report analyses the yearly, quarterly, and monthly fluctuations in footfall, providing a comparative assessment against the previous year’s data.
Examining the year-on-year percentage change by region, the South-West and Wales emerge as the front-runners, experiencing the highest percentage increase at 4.57% and 4.45%, respectively. In contrast, London faces a notable decline with a -1.43% decrease, closely followed by the West Midlands at -1.38%. Despite Worcester’s geographic tie to the West Midlands, recent data challenges the notion of a decline in our city’s footfall.
Contrary to regional statistics, Worcester has exhibited remarkable growth. The 2023 footfall has surged by an average of 21,180 per month, translating to a substantial addition of 254,164 extra pedestrians on our streets in 2023.
What’s driving Worcester’s impressive foot traffic surge for 2023? The city has reaped the benefits of collaborative efforts, evident in the success of the Victorian Christmas market orchestrated by Worcester City Council and innovative events like the Starlight Lantern Parade, a collaborative project involving The Hive, Council, Worcester BID, and government funding support. Worcester BID’s strategic promotion of the city’s rich heritage through a Sky TV advert targeted at specific demographics has also played a pivotal role. Local businesses have actively contributed to this upswing with so many fantastic venues achieving awards, such as Maneki Ramen’s win of Japanese Restaurant of the Year 2023.
Venues have also worked hard to create a safer and more welcoming city offering for all via increased training. Worcester BID’s commitment to community development is evident in the 1205 delegates from businesses within its district attending free and heavily subsidised training courses, fostering confidence and skill development. The introduction of the BID Safer Streets Officer and Safe Space has further bolstered nighttime operations, providing crucial support in areas such as first aid and mental health.
Enhancements in lighting infrastructure and seasonal displays in aerial spaces have gained national attention, attracting more tourism and increased foot traffic on Worcester’s streets. Additionally, our arts and culture scene is booming, with the addition of the art spaces in the Arches and extended opening and popular late-night openings at our Museums!
As we look ahead, Worcester is poised for continued positive momentum, especially as the Official Education and Community Partner of the St Richards Hospice City Art Trail, The Waddle of Worcester, ensuring mass footfall into the city during summer.
Stay tuned by reading the Worcester BID column every Friday for the latest updates.
Martyn's Law: An Important Update for Business Owners
The public consultation on the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as Martyn’s Law is now open. The government consultation will run for 6 weeks
Martyn’s Law is a new legislation in the UK that will mandate those responsible for certain premises and events to consider the terrorist risk and how they would respond to an attack. It is named in tribute to Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester bombing. The law will follow a tiered model linked to the type of activity taking place and the expected audience size and will seek to improve how prepared a venue is without putting an undue burden on business.
In summary, those responsible for Standard Tier premises must:
- Notify the Regulator that they are, or have become, responsible for premises within the scope of the Bill (and so subject to the relevant requirements). This remains broadly in line with previous requirements.
- Have in place procedural measures that could be expected to reduce, so far as reasonably practicable, the risk of physical harm to individuals at the premises in the event of an attack. These relate only to the procedures to be followed by people working at the premises in the event of an attack occurring or being suspected as about to occur. As the procedural measures are about procedures for responding to an attack or suspected attack, it is not expected or required that physical alterations be undertaken or additional equipment purchased for Standard Tier premises.
- In contrast to the published draft Bill, there is no requirement to complete a specified form (the ‘Standard Terrorism Evaluation’) for Standard Tier premises or ensure that people working at the premises are given any specific training. However, as part of putting in place the procedural measures, workers will need to be sufficiently instructed or trained to carry them out effectively.
The consultation is targeted at organisations, businesses, local and public authorities, and individuals who own or operate publicly accessible premises or events that the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will potentially affect.
It seeks views from those responsible for smaller premises which would fall within the standard tier. Standard tier venues are businesses with a capacity of 100-799 individuals.
The bill will impose requirements about certain premises and events to increase their preparedness for, and protection from, a terrorist attack by requiring them to take proportionate steps, depending on the size and nature of the activities that take place at the premises.
The proposed requirements would apply to those responsible for qualifying public premises and qualifying public events.
Take the consultation here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/martyns-law-standard-tier-consultation
Worcester Leads the Charge Against Retail Theft
The recent release of the 2023 Retail Crime Survey by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) has illuminated a national picture of a concerning surge in violence against staff and retail theft. The BRC are urging government intervention to safeguard retail workers, underscoring the pressing need for nationwide investment in deterrents, coupled with comprehensive training and support networks. Aligning with these findings, Policing Minister Chris Philp has initiated a national action plan to combat shoplifting, urging retailers to swiftly provide CCTV footage and shoplifters’ images for identification through facial recognition technology. The introduction of the Pegasus police program further seeks to gather intelligence on organised crime gangs involved in shoplifting, aiming to enhance collaboration between retailers and law enforcement.
Remarkably, Worcester has been ahead of the curve, already implementing very similar strategies for some time. The city’s resilience against the rising trend of retail theft is evident. Worcester BID is taking action to help local businesses reduce theft by providing comprehensive training courses, increasing the use of the 24/7 CCTV-connected CityNet radio system, and using GDPR-compliant DISC information sharing systems, working to strengthen the understanding and adoption of effective theft reduction schemes. Tailored Safer City meetings have evolved into essential platforms for businesses to unite against the shared challenge of retail theft, receiving insights directly from crucial partners like West Mercia Police, providing a helpful support network.
Worcester’s success in combatting retail theft is backed by tangible statistics. From June 20th, 2023, to January 19th, 2024, Worcester BID’s Safer Streets Officer reported 57 instances of asset and monetary recovery and 87 cases of deterrence within the business district. This dedicated officer actively addresses anti-social behaviour, particularly in hot-spot areas, and supports staff in reporting crimes, contributing to a substantial recovery of £12,755.15 in just seven months.
Through collaborative efforts and heightened awareness, Worcester’s partners have effectively intensified the targeting of retail theft, working towards safer streets for everyone. It is great to see that there is a national push to reduce retail theft, and even better to see that Worcester’s endeavours have already yielded success in combatting retail theft. The city is committed to further cultivating partnerships and providing ongoing efforts that support businesses to flourish.
Contemplating the Evolution of Worcester's High Street & Future
Public spaces, important in any city, serve as channels for social interaction and community cohesion. Yet, urban expert Matthew Davis of the Institute of Place Management, issues a warning—public spaces, from sports centres to parks and libraries, face an impending crisis of closure and underfunding. In a recent article titled ‘Pay to stay: an inflection point for accessible towns and cities’, Davis underscores the dwindling support for UK public spaces, advocating for a renewed emphasis on investing in free-to-stay areas that can address community need.
So, is Worcester too at a pivotal juncture where economic prosperity converges with social responsibility? The delicate task of maintaining accessibility for the city centre — the very heart of our community — as a member of the Worcester Business Improvement District, provides some conflict between our aim to foster business growth and Davis’s imperative to preserve public spaces. Davis contends that community input should underpin our urban environment, urging a balanced approach that marries commercial development with investments in public spaces, forging an inclusive city, and we don’t disagree.
The evolving high street introduces challenges to maintaining community spaces as businesses adopt pay-to-stay models for increased turnover, which is great for our economy. Davis suggests striking a balance between community accessibility and high street economic growth is crucial — but how well does Worcester achieve this?
While Worcester considers this challenge, municipal services, such as our city-centre public library, The Hive, stand out as successful community hubs, a stark contrast to the national trend of defunding and closures addressed in the article. However, the question lingers: does Worcester provide enough free alternatives to counterbalance pay-to-stay policies?
In response to the community ownership debate, Worcester takes its own path, with businesses like Script Haven and Sugar Daddy’s Cafe fostering meaningful community narratives. Script Haven, recognised by The Times as the third-best independent bookshop in the UK, actively engages with local talent and charities. Sugar Daddy’s Cafe has become an LGBTQ+ community hub, promoting inclusivity. Additionally, Worcester City Council allocates funding for initiatives like the Arches and Scala Theatre redevelopment, enhancing community accessibility.
The ongoing debate asks whether the high street should grow organically or if active intervention and investment in community-led infrastructure is necessary. However, does this apply to our city?
Worcester appears to strike a delicate equilibrium between economic growth and community well-being, successfully paving its path towards a balanced future.
Safe Space: Worcester's Nighttime Guardian Reveals Impressive Debut Stats
In the bustling nighttime economy of Worcester, the new Safe Space has well and truly arrived, offering solace to those who may find themselves vulnerable in our city. Safe Space, a beacon of compassion and care, takes to our streets every Friday and Saturday night, as well as during events, providing a safe environment for residents, students, and visitors alike.
Operated by a team of dedicated professionals, Safe Space is more than just a physical location; it’s a helping hand for those in need. Safe Space embraces everyone with open arms, free of charge and has already helped many city-goers. The ethos of Safe Space is simple: to extend medical support, welfare support or otherwise and to offer this without any preconceived notions.
In its inaugural seven nights of operation, Safe Space has proven to be more than just a safety net – it’s a financial boon for the NHS, saving an impressive figure of at least £4300 – without any financing from you the taxpayer. Beyond the monetary value, it has addressed and managed 39 medical and welfare incidents during this short span, showcasing its now indispensable role in improving community safety standards.
During the chilly nights of December, when festivities filled the air, Safe Space served as a crucial support system for Worcester’s residents, students, and visitors. Over just seven nights, including New Years Eve, their impact was felt deeply: 13 visitors, perhaps unfamiliar with the city’s terrain, discovered a haven in their time of need, 24 residents found solace and assistance and 2 students also received aid. 5 other individuals, who were not categorised at the time of visiting, were also assisted by the Safe Space.
Safe Space is more than a service; it’s a testament to the strength of a community that values compassion and inclusivity. Let Safe Space stand as a reminder that the city is fostering a culture of care that makes Worcester truly exceptional.
Find out more on our website
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NEW!! Safe Space Worcester Successfully Launches Over the Weekend
Worcester Safe Space was officially launched on December 15 adding yet an extra string to the night-time strategy’s bow.
Worcester is a city that takes safety seriously. Equipped with CCTV, a CityNet radio system, a newly developed Pub Watch scheme and having already been awarded the Purple Flag accreditation for two years running, the city has taken things to the next level with the introduction of a Safe Space. This unique initiative provides a non-judgmental, supportive haven for anyone in need of assistance during operation in the night-time hours.
Worcester BID leads the way with the city night-time strategy and Safe Space initiative, working in conjunction with the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, Worcester City Council, West Mercia Police, Worcester Street Pastors, Worcestershire County Council, Crowngate Shopping Centre, University of Worcester, RTN Medical and Universal Display.
The Safe Space vehicle was also out in force this weekend on both Friday the 15th and Saturday the 16th of December. The primary goal of this pioneering initiative is to make the city a safer place for everyone, and it did just that over the weekend.
The Safe Space vehicle offers a range of services designed to ensure a safe night out, including:
- Skilled paramedics
- Mental health support
- Welfare support
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Help finding a taxi
- A secure space to wait
- Security alarms and drink StopTopps
- Emergency mobile phone charging
- A change of clothes
- Bottles of water
Worcester Safe Space is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all members of the community. Over the course of the weekend the Safe Space vehicle was stationed at Worcester’s Cornmarket from 10pm to 1.30am before moving location to Angel Place where it will remain in place until 4am.
During its operation the Safe Space supported the patrons of city centre businesses in enjoying a safe night out in the city by giving general assistance, first aid, and welfare support. On Friday night, the work of the team at Safe Space saved at least two ambulances from being called out, provided five counts of first aid and a further four counts of welfare support. On the Saturday, a further ambulance call out was saved and four counts of first aid were successfully given. Safe Space also assisted in phone charging, directions, train times and handed out numerous bottles of water to those in need across both nights.
Richard Nash, Lead Medic at Safe Space said: “We are thrilled to have aided many visitors of the city centre through the Safe Space initiative. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, with members of the public and Police alike expressing their gratitude.
Our team provided support to vulnerable individuals by providing warmth, water, and safe transport home. We also administered first aid treatment, charged mobile phones, and aided with directions to ensure safe journeys.
The initiative proved to be a great success on its debut, and we’re excited to continue providing support and welfare to those in need.”
Samantha McCarthy, Worcester BID CEO, said: “We take pride in the fact that we were able to help numerous individuals arrive home safely over the course of the weekend. In doing so, we were also able to contribute to the operations of the night-time economy and reduce the burden on our city’s emergency services.”
The Safe Space will be active again every Friday and Saturday night throughout December, as well as on New Year’s Eve, providing support and assistance from 10pm to 4am. We are looking forward to continuing our services to individuals in need and supporting our business community throughout 2024.
For more information on the Worcester Safe Space project, you can follow @safespaceworc on social media, and for more Worcester BID’s night-time economy initiatives, you can visit the website at www.worcesterbid.com.
We are going ‘nutcrackers’ over the Starlight Parade and Trail this Christmas
The Hive Library is thrilled to announce the return of the lantern parade, an event that has been much missed since the pandemic restrictions in 2020. This year, The Hive has partnered with Worcester City Council, Worcester BID, local Artist Catt Standen, and Crowngate Shopping Centre, to make the return of the event bigger and better than ever before. The Starlight Parade and Trail is set to be enlightening! The enchantment of a certain magical ballet is in the air, and we’ve sprinkled a dash of its brilliance throughout our lantern-lit evening.
The Starlight Parade will take place on Saturday 25th November at 4pm starting from The Hive and ending at Cathedral Square. Invited students from local schools as well as a team of volunteers and creatives will adorn the streets of Worcester with handmade lanterns.
Artists Anna Best and Catt Standen have been visiting the city’s schools this month, working with students to build willow lanterns and to tell them more about the parade. Lantern decorating workshops will also take place at The Hive throughout November and December, where families and children are encouraged to decorate their own lantern before lining the streets to welcome and watch the parade. The public is invited to watch the spectacle by lining the route of the Starlight Parade: a great place to watch is the High Street!
Local artist Catt Standen has also produced four amazing showstopper lanterns for the Starlight Parade around the theme of the famous ballet, The Nutcracker. The special showstoppers are funded by Worcester BID and will stand 6 feet tall upon puppeteers! If you attend, you will see a Storybook, the magical Mouse King, the Nutcracker and the sparkling Sugarplum Fairy Princess.
The parade will start at 4pm from The Hive, making its way down past the bus station and Mode Nightclub, across the market stalls at Angel Place, turning left onto Broad Street before making the final stretch down Worcester High Street finishing at Cathedral Square.
The Starlight Parade coincides with the exciting Christmas Lights switch-on, situated at Cathedral Square, where there will be lots of family entertainment from 4pm until 7pm and the parade will take you straight to the action! The event will mark the beginning of the Christmas celebrations in Worcester with live music performances from local schools, choirs and appearances from the cast of the Swan Theatre’s Pantomime, Jack and The Beanstalk.
A fantastic window art trail will accompany the starlit event during November and December, with local business windows decorated by local artists. A hidden word game dotted around the city will also spread some festive joy over the extended Christmas period.
Stephanie Jones, Library Manager at The Hive, said “We’re delighted to partner with Worcester BID, Worcester City Council, and Catt Standen to help convene the Starlight Parade and Trail this year. We’re extremely excited to see the fantastic lanterns and to celebrate the Christmas Lights switch-on as part of Worcester’s local community.”
The Hive Library and city partners Worcester BID and Worcester City Council are thrilled to bring back lanterns to Worcester in the form of the sparkling-new Starlight Parade and Trail.
After the parade, the showstopper lanterns will be exhibited at The Hive from Monday 27th December 2023 until Tuesday 2nd January 2024 with free admission to all and open daily (8:30am-10pm). There will also be multiple ‘Meet the Artist’ events during December giving the public the opportunity to meet artist Catt Standen as she talks about the creation of the lanterns.
To stay up to date with everything about The Starlight Parade and Trail, please follow @thestarlightparade on Instagram.
Please visit The Hive’s website for more information and to book your lantern-making workshop: Lantern Decorating Workshops – The Hive (thehiveworcester.org)
CUPP Unveils Exciting New Menu with UK's First Mochi Topping and Baby Boba
CUPP have been trading for over 10 years, proudly pushing to be pioneers of boba tea innovation in the UK. CUPP is thrilled to introduce their brand new menu which is set to captivate the taste buds of boba tea lovers across the nation.
The centrepiece of this menu expansion is the Mochi Series (pronounced moe-chee). Marking a historic milestone in the UK boba tea industry, CUPP is the first major chain to introduce the delightful chewiness of mochi topping to their menu. This exciting move solidifies CUPP's position as an industry leader in innovation.
In addition to the pioneering Mochi Series, CUPP Bubble Tea is proud to unveil two other captivating series:
Cloud Series
Elevate your daily boba tea with the introduction of our Cloud Series: featuring a luxurious, light cheese topping that adds a sweet & savoury element to your drink. Take it up a notch and make it a Cloudcake by adding a sprinkle of caramelised biscuit crumbs - think vanilla cheesecake!
Hot Brown Sugar Series
Our nation's favourite - Brown Sugar Series is now available hot! These indulgent drinks can now comfort all of our customers through the colder months. It’s a perfect pick me up to beat the winter blues.
CUPP's commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavour doesn't stop there. The new menu also boasts an exciting array of new boba teas that are sure to become instant favourites:
1. Mango Matcha
2. Brown Sugar Taro
3. Choco- Caramel
4. Passion Fruit Tea
5. Vanilla Latte Boba - for the coffee lovers!
In addition to these exciting offerings, CUPP is proud to announce the release of "Baby Boba" for the youngest members of the bubble tea-loving community. They’ll be offering a free toy for all mini bobas throughout November and December. "We are absolutely thrilled to introduce our latest menu - it’s exciting to see the hard work of our teams come to life. We have put a lot of work and research into bringing the best new boba trends to the UK from Taiwan; the home of boba tea! " Said Lee Peacock, Founder and CEO of CUPP.
The new menu will be available in all CUPP Bubble Tea UK stores starting in October. Whether you're a dedicated boba tea enthusiast or a curious newcomer, CUPP invites you to embark on a flavour-filled journey with these exciting new offerings.
The next steps for Worcester’s Scala arts venue are due to be discussed
Following the decision by the Members of Worcester City Council to halt the existing plans for the proposed renovation of the Grade II listed Corn Exchange and Scala in the city centre, independent consultant Candice Pearson has been appointed to engage local stakeholders to discuss next steps and encourage expressions of interest in the site.
Worcester City Council was awarded funding as part of the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to renovate these two historic buildings in Angel Street into a new 500-seat flexible theatre with complementary gallery space, as well as a café dining area.
Unfortunately, escalating costs meant that the original project could no longer be completed within budget and so the Council is seeking views from stakeholders whilst work continues.
The Joint Leaders of Worcester City Council, Councillors Lynn Denham and Marjory Bisset, said: “We would like to hear from local leaders and influencers across all sectors, and especially the arts, with ideas for how to best fulfil the ambition to restore and bring back into economic use these two remarkable buildings. If that sounds like you, please head to www.scalaworcester.co.uk to get involved.
“Our aim is to create a vibrant destination venue that will enrich Worcester’s cultural scene, helping to increase footfall and bring new private sector investment into the area, in turn creating employment opportunities for local people.”
Ms Pearson said: "Significant funding is available to restore these two locally iconic buildings, offering an unrivalled opportunity to enhance the city's cultural life, not to mention boost the local economy. I implore all dynamic teams and ambitious individuals with exciting ideas and viable business plans for how to make these buildings operational once again to join the conversation and perhaps make their dreams a reality."
As well as one-to-one meetings, interested parties and business prospects can share their views via an in-depth survey available at www.scalaworcester.co.uk, as well as attend one of three public consultation events.
Tours of the site can also be arranged, and stakeholders can express their interest by contacting Scala@cp-pr.org.
Under the original plans, Worcester Theatres were to operate the new Scala, while the Swan Theatre would have become a venue for community arts activities. The Swan Theatre will now continue to operate in its current guise under the management of Worcester Theatres and has already confirmed its regular schedule for the foreseeable future, including several performances from the city's many community theatre groups.
Take our comprehensive Public Perception Survey and have your say on the City
Worcester BID is undertaking a Public Perception Survey that will guide support procedures implemented across Worcester in the coming months and years.
City Council Growth Grants Released - Applications now Closed Until April
Please note that applications to Worcester City Council are currently closed until April 2024. Applications for the Start Up and Growth Grants will open again in 2024.
Business Growth Grant – Worcester City Council
Worcester Business Growth Grant: Helping Your Growing Business Succeed
If your business has been trading for more than a year, you can apply for a grant of up to £2,500 (if home-based) or £5,000 (if in commercial premises). The grant, which requires a minimum of £1,000 matching funds from your own resources, can be used towards one-off expenses to help your business grow. These expenses can include equipment, machinery, website construction, building works, premises refurbishment, fixtures and fittings, software, and other similar costs. The minimum grant is £1,000 and must be matched from own resources. This means your project must cost a minimum of £2,000.
To be eligible for the grant, your business must be based in Worcester, and you must demonstrate that you need the grant to move forward with your project. Only one grant is available per business or applicant.
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Worcester Business Growth Grant is part of Worcester City Council’s allocation of £2.96m. To receive an application pack or for more information, contact the Worcester City Council Economic Development team at economy@worcester.gov.uk or call 01905 722106.
If your business operates from retail premises, you may also be eligible for the Retail Enhancement Grant. The grant provides up to £12,000 for businesses moving into an empty unit and up to £6,000 for improvements to the internal appearance, frontage, or accessibility for those already in a retail unit.
Find out more – Click Here!
Worcester businesses are on their marks for new Worcester running challenge
The 2023 Worcester City Runs has teamed up with Worcester Business Improvement District (Worcester BID) to launch the Worcester BID Business Challenge and recruit runners to take part in the Worcester City 10K on Sunday 17 September.
The Worcester City Runs have always attracted participants from the city’s business community and the Worcester BID Business Challenge aims to boost that further by offering incentives to firms that get involved. To take part, at least three employees from a company need to sign up for the Worcester City 10K, but the more who take part, the better, with a special prize on offer for the business with the highest number of runners. On the day of the 10K, the times of the first three athletes across the finishing line who represent the same firm will be added together and the team that registers the lowest combined total will be crowned winners of the Worcester BID Business Challenge.
Worcester City Runs founder Steve Cram comments:
“We’re delighted to be working with Worcester BID on this initiative, which can help build team relationships and inspire people in the workplace to be more active.”
Samuel Meese, assistant manager at PureGym, Worcester, adds:
“The team at PureGym, which includes personal trainers and managers from around the region, is delighted to be getting involved with the Worcester City Runs. We have a team running in the 10k and taking part in the Worcester BID Business Challenge, but also, PureGym will be supporting all the runners with a warm up before the race, and then cool downs and stretching afterwards in the Runners Village.”
Zoe Atkinson, Head of IT Training and Resources IT at HCR Solicitors in Worcester who are entering a team into the Worcester BID Business Challenge says:
“We are so pleased to have an HCR team entering the Worcester BID Business Challenge. As part of this we are supporting HCR’s Worcester office’s chosen charity which is the Myriad Centre. In preparation for the Worcester Run, we have started weekly running club sessions which are well underway in preparation for the big day.”
Places are now available on the Worcester City Half Marathon, 10K and Young Athletes Run, at www.worcestercityrun.com. Places on the Worcester City 10K cost £26.50 for runners in affiliated clubs and £28.50 for unaffiliated runners. When entering the 10K, entrants will find the option of joining a Worcester BID Business Challenge team, or creating one from scratch, which they can invite other colleagues to join.
Supporting Safer Nights!
Worcester Safe Space is coming soon!
Worcester Safe Space is brought to you by Worcester BID and supporting partners West Mercia Police, West Mercia Police Crime Commissioner, Worcester City Council, University of Worcester, Worcester Street Pastors to support a variety of people in Worcester’s night time economy who may not require emergency care, but may benefit from a safe space to talk, be provided with support, advice, first aid and have an opportunity to be listened to in a safe environment.
The Safe Space will provide the following services:
- Paramedic
- Mental health support
- Street Pastor welfare support
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Taxi finder support
- Security alarms and drink StopTopps
- Mobile phone charging
- Change of clothes
- Bottles of water
The Safe Space will run every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night from 22:30 to 04:30 and may also run on other busy nights such as Bank Holidays, Welcome Week and other big events in the city.
Friday and Saturday nights are often the busiest time in the Emergency Department and we want to reduce the number of people attending A&E by diverting them to more appropriate services.
We are hopeful that this service will reduce the pressure on emergency services, enabling them to give faster service to the community.
Why is the project so important?
- It provides measurable improvements to the city centre offer
- It reduces costs to the ambulance service, police and hospital by looking after individuals who could become vulnerable, signposting people to alternative sources of help such as community care, charities and GP services
- It supports a human dimension to care, that current emergency staff are struggling to give due to time pressures
- It provides understanding, compassion and a personal service that leaves a lasting positive impression of Worcester, meaning every person leaves having had the best support and the best time possible
- Creates another layer of support to care for individuals in the most appropriate way
- It will reduce city centre crimes (burglary, robbery, theft from person, vehicle crime) by providing a visible deterrent and a safe space for vulnerable people to go.
- It will increase local area trust in the concept of a ‘Safe Night Out’ due to the partnership between BID, police, City Council, University, businesses in the NTE and other organisations.
Follow Worcester Safe Space on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for more updates!
The Worcester Carnival is back!
Worcester Carnival will return on Saturday 1st July 2023. Save the date!
Last year Worcester Carnival had over 30 groups participating in the parade and over 40 stallholders. They are looking forward to at least as big a show again this year!
Carnival Village will be open 11am – 7pm with stage performances, stalls and fairground and the parade will start at 3pm.
This year, theme is “Our Colourful World”.
For more information on what to see on Carnival Day click on Visit Us.
If you are a central business or resident, please see the councils letter for more information regarding road closures and times here:
Local Resident_Business affected by Road Closures - Letter 2023
Celebrating Worcester's Heritage
Worcester is abundant with historic buildings, museums, traditional cosy pubs and an eclectic mix of independent shops and eateries.
Exploring Worcester's heritage is as easy as A... B... C...
Our Heritage month spans the month of June.
Find out more about places to Visit by following us on our Instagram page ->
Follow Make it Worc Here
Fancy reading our A-Z that's appeared in The Metro, Worcester News, Worcester Berrow, Midlands Living and Live 24 Seven?! Find the designs below or pick up a hard copy.
Live 24 Seven is out now and Midlands Living can be picked up on June 30th!
To top off Heritage Month, Worcester BID's TV advertisement will be going live on the 16th of June at 5PM. Want to watch, join us to see the premiere on YouTube by pressing the link below and setting a reminder! The countdown will start at 4.59!
Thank you to Anja Potze Fine Jewellers', Felicity, for being the voice of the advertisement!
https://youtu.be/CinK3hdt9I4
It is your time to Visit Worcester!
Bringing you the all new Taste Worcester and City Staff Card!
Be part of Taste Worcester!
NEW TO WORCESTER, OCTOBER 2023
Sign Me Up!
What is Taste Worcester?
Taste Worcester is a month-long celebration of food bought to you by Worcester BID and Visit Worcestershire. Registered venues across the city centre will be putting on £5, £10 and £15 menu items, as well as special menus during this period. To put that in perspective, your £5 item could be a starter or a pudding and your £15 item, a main. You can offer just one of these, or all 3! You could also offer a special menu made up of items available for Taste of Worcester! It is up to you.
Customers will be able to stamp a card each time they participate by eating at a venue during this time. A full stamp card will enter them into a prize draw for a city centre hamper!
When will it be?
October 1ST-31ST 2023
What are the perks?
Participating in the Taste of Worcester will link you to the event page as a partnering business of the event. You will also be promoted in PR and marketing in the lead up to the event and during the
event by Worcester BID and Visit Worcestershire. New people will likely try your venue and return after the event! It is a great way to grow your awareness.
T&Cs:
Participating venues must provide their chosen menu items for the entirety of October. Venues will be required to stamp visitors cards that purchase from your Taste of Worcester menu to allow prize draw entries.
How do I sign up?
Fill out the attached form via a desktop/laptop, save your filled out form and press the email button to email it back to us or send it via info@worcesterbid.com! Please ensure you attach the form to the email.
Sign Me Up!
What else can I get involved in as a foodie venue?
Be part of the City Staff Card and increase your footfall during the week!
Sign Me Up to be a City Staff Card Venue
What is City Staff Card?
The Taste of Worcester City Staff Card will be launched this summer and will run all year round. The aim of the card is to increase the number of people dining out in our city at lunchtime.
This card will entitle staff of city centre businesses to a 10% discount on the total food bill in participating venues, MONDAY-THURSDAY.
If you would like to be part, let us know and we will add you to the database ready for launch!
Why become a participating venue?
Improve your lunchtime uptake by offering a discount to people who are already in the city every day of the week for work! Increase your business’s awareness and contacts with the local business community. Your venue will be displayed on a list of participating venues that will link to your business website.
T&Cs:
All registered businesses must offer the blanket discount of 10% off all food, when shown the city staff card, on the total bill whilst registered as a Taste of Worcester, City Staff Card participating venue.
How do I sign up?
Fill out the attached form via a desktop/laptop, save your filled out form and press the email button to email it back to us or send it via info@worcesterbid.com.
Please ensure you attach the form to the email.
Sign Me Up to be a City Staff Card Venue
MEET THE ARTISTS
Worcester BID has been busy making over the city with artwork on electric boxes and signposts!
Want to know more about the artists? Visit their socials by pressing the link below.
PRESS HERE TO MEET THE ARTISTS
Innovative Solar Butterfly to Stop in Worcester as Part of World Tour
A butterfly-shaped trailer, powered entirely by the sun, will be making a stopover in Worcester this summer as part of a world tour promoting solutions to stop global warming.
The Solar Butterfly was developed by Lucerne University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland and is the world’s largest fully functioning ‘tiny’ house powered by solar energy and pulled by an electrical vehicle. Its creators are driving around the world, across 90 countries over four years, powered only by solar energy in the hope of raising awareness of the climate crisis.
It will be travelling through the UK this summer, stopping off in Worcester on June 1st, before continuing on to Canada, USA, Mexico and Central America.
The Solar Butterfly will be on display in Cathedral Square in the City before spending the night at the University of Worcester to re-charge before continuing its tour.
During the day there will be a chance to see the 80-square-metre solar panel covered trailer, which powers the Tesla vehicle towing it, and take part in a climate quiz while also learning about solutions to stop global warming.
Members of the University’s and Worcester City Council’s Sustainability teams will also be on hand to talk about their work.
Katy Boom, Director of Sustainability at the University of Worcester, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Solar Butterfly World Sustainability Tour here in Worcester. This fascinating concept will help to keep the climate crisis at the front of people’s minds and help them to learn about the things we can all do to stop global warming.”
The Solar Butterfly began its adventure amid dramatic alpine vistas at the United Nations office in Geneva, Switzerland. The first phase of the project – which has been largely crowdfunded, along with support from corporate sponsors – will take it on a six-month, 22,000-kilometer (13,670-mile) trip across 32 countries in Europe.
Louis Palmer, the brains behind the Solar Butterfly, who, in 2007 became the first person to drive around the world in a solar-powered car, says the purpose of the trip is to highlight climate crisis solutions that already exist – and inspire others to take action.
“The message is that it’s possible to save the planet,” he said.
Find out more about the Solar Butterfly project at www.solarbutterfly.org
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 Funding Updates
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 – 𝐔𝐊 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬
𝗨𝗞 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁
For further information email the Economic Development team at Worcester City Council via economy@worcester.gov.uk.
Worcester BID is the official Community and Education Partner for Waddle of Worcester 2023!
We are proud to announce that Worcester BID is the official Community and Education Partner for Waddle of Worcester 2023!
Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive of Worcester BID, said: “Here at Worcester BID, we couldn’t be prouder to be the official Community and Education Partner for the summer 2024 art trail. Following in the footsteps of giraffes and elephants, we welcome penguins to our wonderful city and with them trail goers of all ages from near and far.
“We’ve seen already how being involved in the trail boosts morale across the city and county, including all the schools who get to showcase their artistic talent by designing and decorating a baby sculpture.”
The art trail begins on Monday, 22 July and runs for eight weeks until Sunday, 15 September. Forty large fibreglass penguin sculptures will bring Worcester’s streets and public spaces to life to form an interactive art trail. There will also be a collection of 40 penguin chick sculptures, decorated by schools and community groups, displayed through city shop windows and Crowngate Shopping Centre.
The great Waddle of Worcester is a Wild in Art event brought to the city by St Richard’s Hospice in its fortieth year caring for patients and loved ones.
Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We are thrilled to have Worcester BID on board, supporting our hospice huddle once again.
“Our previous two trails brought measurable benefits to the economy, tourist industry, arts scene and more locally and we look forward to bringing that same wow factor to Worcester once again.”
Once the trail has ended, the large penguin sculptures will be auctioned to raise money towards the free care that St Richard’s provide to patients with a serious progressive illness and their loved ones.
More on the trail’s Community and Education Programme will be released in the coming months. In the meantime, schools and community groups can register their interest in adopting a baby penguin: https://waddleofworcester.co.uk/schools/
You can also follow the great Waddle of Worcester at: https://www.facebook.com/WaddleOfWorcester/, https://twitter.com/WaddleOfWorc and https://www.Instagram.com/WaddleOfWorcester
Read more about BID's involvement in the Great Waddle of Worcester here!
Summer is served
Worcester’s food menu is looking tasty for this Summer. If eating out is a bit of you then read on for our recommendations.
Before you hit the ground running, check out the various food directories that are available. Pershore Patty and Worcestershire Foodies Guide are two good places for listings and Pershore Patty is a local blogger who posts regular, independent reviews.
https://pershorepatty.com/worcestershire/
http://www.worcestershirefoodiesguide.co.uk
https://www.visitworcestershire.org/business-directory/category/food-drink
Foodie events are popular in the city centre for some weekend entertainment
Worcester Dining Club
It’s taking place on Cathedral Square on 12 May, 16 and 23 June from 4-9pm, free entry and no tickets required.
https://www.visitworcester.co.uk/events-in-worcester/worcester-dining-club/?occurrence=2023-05-12
Bottles Spanish and Portuguese Wine Tasting
£30 per head, click the image to book.
https://www.bottleswineshop.co.uk/product/span-portuguese-wine-tasting/
Vegan Market
This is taking place on Saturday 17 June in Cathedral Square
Botanist Bingo – Wednesday 7 June
Always popular – heads down! Click the picture to reserve your place.
Worcester city restaurants offer a really wide choice all year round.
Locals love – try these for brunch
Hash, Chapel Walk, Crowngate Shopping Centre
Waylands, 6 Foregate, Worcester
https://www.waylandsyard.com/worcester
Locals Love – try these for coffee and cake
Papas Caffe, New Street, Worcester
G and Tea, Friar Street, Worcester
https://www.gandteabakery.co.uk
Locals love – try these for lunch
Food and Liquor, Sidbury, Worcester
Friar Street Kitchen, Friar Street, Worcester
https://friarstreetkitchen.co.uk
Locals love – try these for veggie/vegan
Botanist, Cathedral Square, Worcester
https://thebotanist.uk.com/locations/worcester
Boston Tea Party, Angel Place, Worcester
Locals love – try these for date night dining
Benedictos, Sidbury, Worcester
Hanbao, 4 Foregate Street, Worcester
Fuego, 35 Foregate Street, Worcester
Locals love – try these with kids and babies
Auntie Ems Tearoom, City Arcade, Worcester
https://www.facebook.com/auntieemstearoom/about
The Wildling Collective, Reindeer Court
https://www.thewildlingcollective.co.uk
Locals love – try these dog friendly eateries
GoodRoots, Severn Street, Worcester
Paw & Co, Reindeer Court
https://www.facebook.com/pawandco
NEW! Taste of Worcester
Coming to Worcester this October, Taste of Worcester, a Worcester BID partnership with Visit Worcester that will bring food venues around the city together to offer you something special...!
Let's get together this October and celebrate the best of Worcester's tasty food scene.
More information to come. Watch out for information on @makeitworc on Instagram and @worcesterbid on Facebook and Twitter.
WORCESTER TRAVEL AGENT NAMED BEST...
WORCESTER TRAVEL AGENT NAMED BEST IN CENTRAL ENGLAND
A Worcester travel agency has been named as the best in Central England.
arrangeMY Escape was named Central England’s Top Agency as part of the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies 2023: an annual power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible, Travel Trade Gazette.
It is the second year in a row that the agency has taken the crown for the region, and was last year also named UK & Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency.
TTG editorial director Pippa Jacks said: “Now in its eighth year, our TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative sees us tour the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland to find those travel agents who have worked smartest, provided the best customer service, and done most to contribute to a fairer travel industry, in the last year.”
“We were delighted to see the high street travel agency sector performing so strongly, with almost every finalist reporting a record year of sales in the last 12 months – reaping the rewards of the extraordinary service they offered to clients during the challenges of recent years. There is no doubting that the high street travel agent is here to stay – and that holidaymakers are valuing their expertise more than ever.”
About arrangeMY Escape’s win, judges said: “Last year's UK & Ireland No.1 has not rested on their laurels over the last 12 months, from working with a local producer to create a branded gin, to creating bespoke video content for display on the in-store TV. We loved the agency's commitment to taking apprentices and work experience placements, and a new scheme whereby arrangeMY Escape plants a tree for every wedding or honeymoon booking. This is an agency excelling in all areas, and going from strength to strength.”
Jennifer Lynch general manager said “What a wonderful 12 months the agency here in Worcester has had. Winning the UK & Ireland No.1 in 2022 propelled the agencies status and determination. With this we concentrated on our customers and focused on all the finer details as well as strongly introducing sustainability as a core part of our company and customers’ journey. The team are thrilled with this award for the second year running and cannot wait to see what the next 12 months ahead will bring.
The TTG Top 50 ceremony took place at The Vox in Birmingham on Thursday 27 April, with more than 500 of the UK and Ireland’s top travel agents and supplier-partners in attendance, with entertainment from Fine Young Cannibals’ Roland Gift and chart-topper Chesney Hawkes.
Find more about TTG’s Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative, see ttgtop50.com and #ttgtop
WORCESTER AGENT NAMED BEST IN THE COUNTRY FOR WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
A Worcestershire travel agency has been named as the best weddings and honeymoons retailer in the British Isles.
arrangeMY Escape was named UK & Ireland’s Top Weddings & Honeymoons Agency as part of the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies 2023: an annual power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible, Travel Trade Gazette.
TTG editorial director Pippa Jacks said: “Now in its eighth year, our TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative sees us tour the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland to find those travel agents who have worked smartest, provided the best customer service, and done most to contribute to a fairer travel industry, in the last year.”
“We were delighted to see travel retailers performing so strongly, with almost every finalist reporting a record year of sales in the last 12 months – reaping the rewards of the extraordinary service they offered to clients during the challenges of recent years. There is no doubting that travel agents are here to stay – and that holidaymakers are valuing their expertise more than ever.”
About arrangeMY Escape’s win, judges said: “We had a lot of love for the wedding and honeymoon services of this Worcester-based agency, with their strong focus on LGBTQ+ customers and busy schedule of wedding fairs. Hand holding couples with a bespoke after-sales concierge service and showering them with sweet treats, keepsake luggage tags and the gift of a tree planted in a developing country are just some of the ways this agency woos its happy customers.”
Jennifer Lynch the agencies general Manager said “We take immense pride in this award; our wedding and honeymoon packages have really been refined with care and attention to detail. We really think about the journey our special couples experience with us right from the get-go. As a team we are really proud to achieve such a prestigious award and title and look forward to continuing our innovative wedding and honeymoon offering.
The TTG Top 50 ceremony took place at The Vox in Birmingham on Thursday 27 April, with more than 500 of the UK and Ireland’s top travel agents and supplier-partners in attendance, with entertainment from Fine Young Cannibals’ Roland Gift and chart-topper Chesney Hawkes.
Find more about TTG’s Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative, see ttgtop50.com
Congratulations to arrangeMy escape!
CUPP CELEBRATES NATIONAL BOBA TEA DAY WITH FREE BOBA TEA GIVEAWAYS
Boba tea has become increasingly popular in the UK over the past few years, and CUPP is proud to be a leading boba tea brand in the country. National Boba Tea Day is the perfect opportunity for CUPP to celebrate their passion for boba tea and thank their loyal customers.
"We're thrilled to celebrate National Boba Tea Day with our customers and give them a taste of our delicious boba tea," said Lee Peacock, CUPP's Founder. "We're grateful to Minor Figures for sponsoring our Oat Milk and helping us provide our customers with the best quality boba tea."
In addition to the free boba tea giveaways, there will be other fun activities and giveaways in all of the CUPP stores. Customers can participate in competitions and win exciting prizes.
"We invite everyone to come celebrate National Boba Tea Day with us at their nearest CUPP store," said Lee Peacock. "It's a great opportunity to try our boba tea and have some fun with our community."
For more information, please visit the CUPP website at www.cuppbubbletea.co.uk.
Summer bunting is on its way in Worcester!
Towards the end of April, colourful bunting will be installed across the city on the High Street, Pump St, Mealcheapen St, St Swithins St and Broad St!
Join in the fun and decorate your shop windows in the most colourful way you can! Sign ups for the Worcester BID summer window art are still open for all BID businesses until tomorrow at 4PM.
This is a joint installation bought to the city by Worcester BID and Worcester City Council.
Worcester Whitehouse Hotel enjoys visit from Robin Walker MP
Aspire - Contemporary art exhibition by artist Wayne Warren The Commandery, Worcester
Aspire arrives at The Commandery, Worcester on 1 April until 3 September 2023
8 works on the themes of aspiration, dreams and ambition placed at significant points
Free family workshops with artist Wayne Warren on Easter Monday 10 April
Butterflies and angels are taking over The Commandery in an exhibition filled with hope and aspiration. Aspire opens at The Commandery on Saturday 1 April and runs until Sunday 3 September 2023.
The artworks have been created by contemporary artist Wayne Warren in response to the beautiful Commandery building and it’s amazing one-thousand-year history. The artworks represent aspirations, dreams and ambitions.
Visitors can follow the trail of artworks around The Commandery, take a selfie in front of huge angel wings in the historic Great Hall and enjoy a programme of wing-inspired family activities over the Easter holidays, including a workshop with the artist himself on Monday 10 April.
Situated in the heart of Worcester, The Commandery has been a medieval monastic hospital, a Tudor home and a 1950s print works, but is most well-known for being the headquarters of the Royalist army during the Battle of Worcester in 1651 – the deciding battle of the English Civil War.
The artworks include Golden Wings, situated in the building’s beautiful Great Hall; and Growth, a new artwork commissioned especially for the exhibition at The Commandery, featuring gold leaf on oak leaves and acorns, situated upon a stool made of wood from the Boscobel Oak, purported to be the tree King Charles II hid in when fleeing from the Battle of Worcester.
Wayne Warren’s work has been exhibited at Worcester Cathedral and internationally in Hong Kong, Beijing, New York and Venice. Wayne says of his show at The Commandery: “My work reflects my thoughts and feelings about the 1,000 years of history contained within the fabulous building.”
Commandery Manager Rachel Robinson says: “It is fascinating to have The Commandery’s history interpreted in new ways and to shed light on its many layers of history. We hope visitors will enjoy finding the artworks around the building, taking their angel wing selfies, and having fun with the family activities.”
The Commandery is open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sunday 11am – 3pm. It is also open Bank Holiday Monday 10 April 10am – 5pm and there are workshops at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Normal admission applies, no extra fee for the exhibition. Small fee for the family activities. For more information, please visit www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱!
KEEP UP TO DATE ON OUR SOCIALS AND FIND THE ORIGIONAL NEWS HERE
The new exhibition From the Cornish Coast to the Malvern Hills arrives at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
Saturday 4 March – Saturday 1 July 2023 | Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
Monday to Saturday 10.30am – 4.30pm
FREE entry
The new exhibition, From the Cornish Coast to the Malvern Hills, arrives Saturday 4th March until 1st July 2023, celebrating Worcestershire’s influence on British Impressionism Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum and the links between Worcestershire and the Newlyn School of artists who were pivotal in this magical moment of British art in the nineteenth and twentieth century. Including paintings by Stanhope Forbes, Dame Laura Knight and Elizabeth Forbes. Camille and Lucian Pissarro represent the influence of French Impressionists. As well as, two works by Dame Laura Knight recently acquired for the Worcester City Collection. The artworks were purchased with support from Art Fund, the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Worcestershire Heritage, Art & Museums Charity and kind donations from Art Gallery & Museum Members. Dame Laura Knight lived and painted in Malvern and the town and hills become very dear to her, influencing her work.
For more information visit
www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk
Worcester City Runs Breakfast Club with the legendary Paula Radcliffe MBE
Join us at the @worcesterrun Breakfast Club: a networking event with a twist that give's you all the information you need to get involved with the Worcester City Run.
BREAKFAST
CLUB
FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARY 2023
8AM - 10AM
Jog, walk or just enjoy a coffee whilst networking at Wildwood.
Take it at your own pace.
Fancy a jog or walk? You will be joined by athletics legend’s Steve Cram CBE and Paula Radcliffe MBE as you make your way along the river path to the marina before circling back for breakfast and a hot drink.
Chat to Steve, Paula and the team about how you can get involved in our exciting plans for 2023.
Register your BID Business by contacting us at info@worcesterbid.com
Register your BID Business by contacting us at info@worcesterbid.com
Could you be our new Safer Streets Officer?
We are hiring!
Worcester Business Improvement District are hiring a Safer Streets Officer to work within the Worcester city centre.
Could you be a good fit? The role would see you working closely with our city partners including West Mercia Police, Worcester City Council, Worcester Cares, and businesses to deter crime and anti-social behaviour with a primary focus on safer streets. You would be a visual and consistent presence in the city, sending a clear message that we have zero tolerance for crime of any sort in the city centre.
If this sounds like you, please read the full job description here:
PRESS HERE FOR THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
To apply, please email a CV and cover letter to BID CEO, Sam McCarthy: sam.mccarthy@worcesterbid.com
PRESS HERE FOR THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
Worcester’s Close the Door campaign helps businesses stay Open4Business
Worcester is staying Open4Business by closing its doors: a new Close the Door campaign is in full force. The joint initiative from Worcester BID, supported by Worcester City Council, is set to save businesses money and reduce the city’s contribution to CO2 emissions, simply by shops closing their doors whilst trading during winter periods.
At a time when energy bills are at an all-time high, Worcester BID is helping businesses with simple energy-saving techniques that are being promoted to customers and shoppers through simple initiatives such as informative window and door stickers. These stickers are being distributed to businesses across the city centre and are designed to prompt customers to close doors behind them.
Sam McCarthy, CEO of Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) said, “Businesses within the city are open for business and to support with the increasing energy bills, they will be keeping their doors closed this winter period. We encourage shoppers not to be put off by the closed doors and to understand that this supports the businesses to remain trading by reducing additional costs.”
Whilst this is a simple technique to keeping the heat in and reducing energy usage, research from Cambridge University found that shops that keep doors open consume twice as much electricity as businesses which do not. Businesses that close their doors save up to 10 tonnes of CO2 and can cut their annual energy bills by up to half. This is the equivalent of driving 25,000 miles – the distance from Worcester to our twin city of Le Vesinet, France, and back, nearly 30 times!
This simple Close the Door initiative will help businesses save money on their energy bills and reduce the city’s consumption of energy, leading to lower CO2 emissions.
Worcester City Council’s Councillor Louis Stephen suggested the scheme and said, “The cost-of-living crisis, caused by high energy bills, is affecting local businesses just as much as Worcester residents. The open for business initiative is a great way for customers to support local shops by understanding why business doors are closed during the cold winter months.”
Help support your high street this winter by closing the doors of businesses displaying the sticker.
If you would like a window sticker for your business. Please contact Worcester BID via info@worcesterbid.com
NEW - City Council Grants for Business Improvements
Worcester City Council has just introduced a new grant for retail properties. The grants are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and are part of Worcester City Council’s allocation of £2.96m.
If you have a retail unit, you could be given financial support towards making improvements to internal appearance, frontages, and accessibility of empty and occupied retail units across Worcester.
Businesses/organisations can apply for a maximum of £12,000 towards costs of occupying a previously empty retail unit or £6,000 for improvements to internal appearance, frontages, and/or the accessibility of occupied units. Eligible expenditure can include building works, premises refurbishment, fixtures and fittings, signage, installation of ramps and other associated costs to either bring the empty unit back into use or improve the internal appearance, frontage, or accessibility of occupied units.
Businesses/organisations must be able to make a ‘cash’ match funding contribution of at least 50% towards the cost of the proposed project/investment.
Applications are encouraged to be submitted as soon as possible.
Please note that you may be contacted regarding your application and changes.
Please contact the Economic Development team on either 01905 722106 or email economy@worcester.gov.uk for more information.
Student Discounts Galore!
Are you a student? Make the most of your student card in the city centre at the following places
FOOD
M&S – 25% off food on the go (UNIDAYS)
Zizzi (High Street) – 20% off Monday-Thursday (UNIDAYS)
Yo Sushi – 20% off when you dine in (UNIDAYS) – Limited Time Only Check UNIDAYS Website for up to date details
Pizza Express – 30% Off Food Sunday – Thursday (UNIDAYS)
Bills – 20% Off total bill Sunday to Thursday (UNIDAYS)
Greggs – Free Sausage Roll, Vegan Sausage Roll or Sweet Treat – When you buy any cold Sandwich Deal! (Show student card in store)
Hotel Chocolate – Redeem a 10% student discount with Student Beans. Hotel Chocolat Discount Codes | Voucher Codes
BEAUTY
Boots – Boots offer students a 10% discount. The discount is valid online and in-store, with a Boots Advantage Card. Present your valid student ID in-store to have your student discount linked to your Advantage Card.
House Of Fraser – 10% off year round with Student Discount Apps. See more here: Student Discounts | Exclusive Student Offers | House of Fraser
Superdrug – Superdrug offer students a 10% discount. The discount is available in-store only, and you’ll need to present your student ID alongside a Superdrug Health & Beautycard.
*Superdrug’s Online Doctor is also providing a 10% discount for students on all products and services with the code: STUDENT10
Perfume Shop – 15% Off (UNIDAYS) Student Discount | The Perfume Shop
The Body Shop – The Body Shop offers a 15% student discount on all products, so you can treat yourself to your self-care favourites without breaking the bank. (UNIDAYS)
FASHION
Accessorize – (High Street): Get 10% off full price items. (UNIDAYS)
House Of Fraser – 10% off year round with Student Discount Apps. See more here: Student Discounts | Exclusive Student Offers | House of Fraser / (Student discount on Beauty Products | The Body Shop®)
Moss -10% Student Discount at Moss – Student Discount (moss.co.uk)
Jingo (Pump Street): 10% off full price all year round.
Pandora – 50% off any order over £99 with Student Beans (account required).
HAIR
Avant Garde Hair & Beauty – 50% off your first visit, 25% off your second visit and 15% off every visit after (Get the discount here Student Discount Hereford & Worcester Hair & Beauty Salons (agsalons.com))
Inspiration Hair – £10 off your first visit (Hair Salon New Client Discount Voucher – Worcester (inspirationhair.co.uk))
OTHER
Paperchase – Paperchase offer students a 10% discount.
Smiggle – Get the 10% off Smiggle student discount code with your first purchase & Newsletter Sign Up.
Cornish Bakehouse – 10% off (Check offer before purchase as varies).
Waterstones – 10% (Show your card at the till).
The Kiln (Copenhagen Street) – Enjoy a student/graduate discount (50% discount for 6 months).
Worcester Tourist Information Centre (High Street): Make the most of a 10% offer on all gifts.
Museum Of Royal Worcester – Student entry reduced rate = £6.50
Take a look at NUS / TOTUM and UNiDAYS, alongside other ways to look out for student discounts like Student Beans and StudentDiscount.co.uk.
Peter Cooks Bread joins the Hopmarket
There is a new venue just about to officially launch in the Hopmarket and they want to celebrate their opening with you!
So what is Peter Cooks Bread?
"Our key principle is ‘Sharing the Joys of Real Bread’ and this means bread with no improvers, using organic flours, wholegrains, and mostly wild yeast in our breads. Nearly all our breads have themselves won great taste awards or worlds baking awards with the depth of flavour resulting from our 3 day fermentation process. Our pastry products are also made with the same focus on flavour and texture making our pastries stand out from the crowd. Once you have tried one of our pastries it is hard to accept anything less.
At this time of year we also have our Christmas specials including our own Stollen with fruit soaked in Chase Marmalade vodka, which comes in either bite size or loaf. Our own mince pies using our shortcrust pastry, with our Peter Cooks Bread mincemeat, with either the classic pastry top or our own delicious frangipane."
The Hopmarket Peter Cooks Bread launch party and free tasting event will take place this Saturday (10th December) between 10am and 12 noon. Pop down to see celebrity chef and presenter Marcus Bean Chef, opening the sparkling new shop at 3 The Hop Market, Worcester, WR1 1DG.
Definitely not one to be missed.
Find event details on their Facebook page by pressing here!
Worcester secures £2.96m Government investment
Worcester City Council has secured £2.96 million to invest in the city from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The money will be used for a wide range of initiatives in the city, including boosting Worcester’s profile as a visitor destination; support for community schemes, the arts and business; and energy efficiency.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is the successor to the European Structural Fund, and this funding allocation builds on the City Council’s previous success in securing more than £40 million from national schemes including the Future High Streets Fund and the Towns Fund.
Councillor Chris Mitchell, Joint Leader of Worcester City Council, said: “This is good news for the city, and demonstrates continued support from the Government for the improvements and developments that we are making in Worcester.
“Community groups, businesses and creative organisations will benefit from the initiatives that this £2.96 million will support, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to supporting communities in terms of levelling-up.”
Part of the UKSPF investment will be used to support Worcester’s growing reputation as a visitor destination. There will be promotions and campaigns to attract more visitors, additional signing to help them explore the city, and improved access to the Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum.
Support for communities will include an expansion of the City Council’s community grants programme, and the establishment of a heritage forum and a separate arts and culture forum, both of which would also be able to award grants.
Additionally, the City Council will commission a feasibility study into creating a new facility for applied and creative arts in Worcester.
To support the city’s businesses, £150,000 will be used to back research and innovation, and part of the UKSPF money will be used to pay for energy-efficiency assessments of business premises and grants for energy improvements.
This latest award of Government funding is the latest in a long line of public investments in the city.
Improvements to the northern part of the city centre, including the development of a new arts centre in Angel Place, are being made thanks to £17.9 million from the Future High Streets Fund.
An allocation of £19.6 million from the Towns Fund is supporting a range of projects, including the new Kepax Bridge and other boosts to walking and cycling; the redevelopment of Isaac Maddox House in the city’s Shrub Hill quarter; and a new construction skills training centre in Dines Green.
The redevelopment of the city’s Victorian railway arches as The Arches – Worcester project, which has created new creative business spaces and will soon bring a new walking and cycling route from Foregate Street station to The Hive and the riverside, has been possible thanks to a successful £3.7 million bid to the Cultural Development Fund.
Worcester is ready to light up for Christmas
Christmas is coming to Worcester – with the festive lights being switch on in a fun-packed family event on Saturday 26 November.
This year there will be more streets lit up in the city than ever before, including – for the first time – seasonal illuminations on New Road to create a closer link between the festive offers in both the city centre and St John’s.
This year’s Christmas lights are a joint effort between Worcester City Council and Worcester BID – and with low energy LED bulbs being used, this festive season will also be better for the planet.
Free and fun for all the family, the big switch-on event begins at 4pm on Saturday 26 November in Cathedral Square, with Radio Wyvern hosting live music performances from local band Split Second, school choirs, and characters from the Swan Theatre’s pantomime cast of Cinderella. The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Adrian Gregson, will help to switch on the lights.
If Worcester residents have all been good boys and girls this year, Father Christmas might also make a special appearance.
This year’s colourful festive lights will, for the first time, extend into New Road, and Worcester BID will be supporting lights in Reindeer Court, Lower Broad Street, New Street, Friar Street, The Hopmarket and The Shambles. The latter location will have overhead festive lights for the first time, while the New Street and Friar Street lights will feature purple colours to reflect Worcester recently securing the purple flag in recognition of it being a safe night-time destination.
There will also be a trail of 12 ‘light boxes’ to be explored around the city centre, each hiding an image of one of the 12 days of Christmas. Visitors will be able to use the torch on their mobile phone to reveal the image inside each box.
Councillor Robyn Norfolk, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Place and Economic Development Committee, said: “At a time when many cities are scaling back their Christmas plans, I’m very pleased to announce that Worcester’s festive lights will be better than ever. And, for the first time, the illuminations will take in New Road, creating a colourful seasonal link between our two busiest shopping areas in the city centre and St John’s.
“Despite the pressures that people are under at the moment, we hope the Christmas lights will encourage shoppers and visitors into our city and help our local businesses to enjoy a successful festive season.
“The family-friendly switch-on event on 26 November in Cathedral Square will be packed full of great free entertainment and will kick-off a fantastic programme of seasonal fun – with more to be announced very soon!”
All of Worcester’s Christmas illuminations this year will be low-energy LED lights – with over 80,000 individual LEDs in use around the city. These are kinder to the environment and are also around 85% cheaper to run.
Sam McCarthy, CEO of Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Worcester BID’s focus this year for the Christmas lights has been around the sustainability and running costs of the scheme. We have focused on ensuring that whist the lights capture the spirit of the season and help visitors and shoppers to enjoy the city centre, everything – including the LED bulbs, use of phone torches that are already charged, and quantities of lighting – has been chosen to be more sustainable this year than ever before, across many busy and popular city zones.”
This year’s extensive programme will bring Christmas lights to the main shopping streets in the city centre and St John’s, and include the traditional brightly-lit tree on the New Road roundabout.
A brand new Escape Room experience opens at The Commandery, Worcester
- New Escape Room opens at The Commandery, Worcester, Saturday 5 November
- Booking live now on commandery-quest.co.uk
- Commandery Quest has been created by 12Volt: Games Studio who have created escape rooms for the award winning Shepton Mallet and Shrewsbury Prisons, as well as props and interactives for Escape Live's Horrible Histories experience.
There will be an exciting new way to experience history at Worcester’s Commandery from November when The Commmandery’s brand new Escape Rooms are launched.
Commandery Quest, created by 12Volt: Games Studio, is based on the traditional escape room experience which invites participants to complete a challenge by tackling a series of puzzles against the clock.
The Commandery is in the heart of historic Worcester, just minutes from the High Street, riverside and many pubs and restaurants, with convenient parking opposite in King Street.
Commandery Quest invites teams to explore The Commandery like never before. The Escape Room is based in the Commandery attics which are off the normal visitor route.
The Escape Room story is based around the Commandery’s role as the Royalist Headquarters in the English Civil War. Teams of 2 – 6 players will become museum curators, battling against the clock they will solve a series of puzzles to find Charles II’s lost treasure before infamous thief Arty Snitch catches up with them.
Commandery Events Officer Helen Manning says: “We are so excited to present this Escape Room with a difference – actually set in one of Worcester’s most historic buildings. We look forward to seeing if teams can rise to the challenge and beat Arty Snitch to the treasure.”
The Commandery has recruited special Games Masters to greet teams and help them with their search.
Booking is open now at www.commandery-quest.co.uk, or for more information please call The Commandery on 01905 361821.
Get to know your city employers
The Worcester News Jobs Fair is an ideal event for those looking for work, to find out more about vacancies that are currently available and to speak to local employer's face to face.
If you missed our October Fair, don't despair! A new date will be released for 2023 which will see big names returning to the Guildhall.
If you are looking for work, here is a selection of Worcester's powerhouse employers which cover a broad number of sectors.
Simply click the photos to go through to the employer's website.
Armed Forces Careers
THE ARMY IS ITS PEOPLE
What makes the British Army? It’s not the weaponry or the vehicles – it’s the people.
Our vision is a competitive, adaptable and inclusive Army imbued with an unwavering will to win; where people feel they belong; where their talent is nurtured, where health is positively promoted, and opportunity maximised.
Does this sound like you? Find out more on their website.
Step by Step
At Step by Step, we offer a completely free service to our applicants, and all information you provide will be treated with respect and kept confidential. What sets us apart from other agencies is our willingness to not simply work for you, but to work with you to get you the right job.
Our honest, friendly and professional consultants are here to help with your search for employment, and we pride ourselves as treating each and every one of our applicants as an individual, taking the time to get to know you and your exact requirements.
A-Plan
A-Plan is different – it’s what our clients love about us. As an advice-providing broker, we’re here to lend our expertise to help our clients find an insurance policy that’s right for them. We’ve built our business on this personalised service, and we’re proud to offer it to over 500,000 clients.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to work in an environment where you’ll be central to what we do, A-Plan is for you. And if you’re willing to develop your insurance expertise to help your career progression, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re waiting for you to get in touch so that we can explore what’s right for you.
West Mercia Police
We’ll provide the training and variety you need to let you make a real difference, plus a host of benefits from flexible hours, generous annual leave and pension contributions across job roles, from officers, to contact handlers.
Worcester City Council
We play a vital part in keeping the beautiful City of Worcester a great place to be. We work hard to build a successful future on 2000 years of history. Why not be someone who gets involved and makes a difference. Be part of our amazing and diverse team of dedicated people to help sustain the amazing history and heritage of an increasingly modern and contemporary City.
Help us to build a better society.
Sanctuary
Looking for a new job? We want to be a diverse and inclusive organisation where our people thrive. If you share our values and are talented and ambitious, we want to hear from you. We employ more than 12,500 staff throughout the UK and maintain Investors in People status.
Worcester County Council
Find a new career with Worcestershire County Council.
The Council is committed to promoting equality and diversity, and ensuring that all appointments are made based on the suitability of a candidate to the role only.
We are a 'Disability Confident Employer', which means we will guarantee an interview to any candidate with a disability who shows that they meet the essential criteria for the advertised role.
Jobseekers and employers alike were delighted to see the Worcester News Jobs Fair making a welcome return in partnership with Worcester BID.
The fair took place at Worcester's Guildhall in the heart of the city centre's High Street. A second fair date is in the diary for 2023 with more information coming in the new year. Keep an eye out on our socials to find out the next date to meet the employers face to face.
Join us for our October Jobs Fair
Jobseekers and employers alike will be delighted to hear that the Worcester News Jobs Fair is making a welcome return in partnership with Worcester BID.
The fair will take place at Worcester's Guildhall in the heart of the city centre's High Street. Two events are being planned with the first taking place on Thursday, October 13.
Both events are being sponsored by Worcester BID.
The aim of Worcester BIDs involvement is to support businesses to exhibit, and as part of both job fairs, the BID is introducing a new public facing section for advice and support: The Support Hub.
Worcester BID have supported the following businesses who will appear at the October Jobs Fair (click on the photo to find out more):
Armed Forces Careers
Step by Step
A-Plan
West Mercia Police
Worcester City Council
Sanctuary
Worcester County Council
Regional editor for Worcester News, Stephanie Preece said: "We know that finding the right candidates for your business can be difficult and trawling through CVs online isn’t always the best way to find potential employees. For this reason, the fair will be a great opportunity for employers to meet job seekers in the local area. Whether you are looking to recruit seasonal staff for the festive period, full-time or part-time workers, apprentices or volunteers – the fair will be an ideal place for you to connect with the right people."
Worcester BID Chief Executive Sam McCarthy said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Worcester News Jobs Fair. Supporting the businesses that make our city great. With over 67% independent businesses Worcester City is a fantastic place to work. Over the last 24 months businesses have faced more challenges then ever with Covid and now the cost of living rise. As the Businesses Improvement District, our aims are to support the city ensuring Worcester businesses still thrive. We will be organising a support hub as part of the event offering CV writing advice, interview support, apprenticeships packages, training courses and perks to working within the city centre. We look forward to welcoming you in October and supporting your business.”
The Support Hub consists of a central section to the fair that provides support and advice. This support will be provided by the following businesses: Worcestershire LEP, Careers Worc Youth Hub (based in The Hive), Heart of Worcestershire College who will have information on adult learning and apprenticeships and Worcester University providing information on training courses at the university.
The October fair is an ideal place for local employers to talk to job seekers - whether they are looking for skilled full-time workers, seasonal staff or casual employees.
A wide variety of sectors will be represented from healthcare providers to retailers, manufacturing to administration and lots more in between!
Make sure to come on down to The Guildhall, Worcester to meet the recruiters on Thursday 13TH of October if you are looking for work or a career change.
Worcester Waves the Purple Flag
Worcester city centre has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for its evening and night-time economy (ENTE), following a successful application process by the city.
The Purple Flag is a nationwide award; it recognises Worcester as a vibrant destination for dining, entertainment and culture between the hours of 17.00 and 05.00, successfully promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents.
The accreditation process in Worcester has been led over the past seven months by Worcester BID, in partnership with other city organisations Worcester City Council, and West Mercia Police.
Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive for Worcester BID, said: “Purple Flag accreditation demonstrates excellence in the evening and night-time economy. Worcester BID has been the lead delivery partner for the application, with Worcester City Council and West Mercia Police as supporting partners to achieve the status for the city. Purple Flag assesses all areas of the night-time economy, looking at safety measures and how partners work together utilising city resources such as CCTV and the CityNet radio scheme. They also look into city enhancements, ensuring a feeling of greater safety. For example, New Street and Friar Street’s festoon lighting recently added by Worcester BID creates a vibrant atmosphere but also adds additional lighting to the area, making it feel safer.”
To support the Purple Flag application, Worcester BID is delivering Best Bar None accreditation which is a scheme supported by the Home Office and assesses licensed venues, ensuring they are meeting licence conditions and celebrating their successes where they go above and beyond. Worcester BID has also been working to improve community safety by training businesses in first aid, the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and the treatment catastrophic bleeding, as well as installing five new AED kits within late licensed venues around the city. The next steps for this project are installing community AED kits externally to ensure there is 24/7 accessibility to life saving equipment.
Sam McCarthy continues: “Worcester achieving Purple Flag status reassures and builds consumer confidence that our city is a safe and vibrant place. It will also help to put Worcester on the map and encourage prospective investors to set up businesses, families to make Worcester their home, and students to select Worcester University as their first choice to study.”
Nicki Williams, Vice Chair for Worcester BID says: “Everyone has worked incredibly hard to get this accolade. Our city businesses will notice such a positive impact through having this award. It represents another positive development by these city partnerships, led by the BID in this case, to improve our city.”
Councillor Marc Bayliss, Joint Leader of Worcester City Council: “Worcester has a growing reputation as a great destination for shopping, sight-seeing, leisure and much more. Purple Flag status confirms that our city is a great place for a relaxing, enjoyable and safe night out and provides a great basis for boosting Worcester’s popularity even further.”
Superintendent Rebecca Love said: “The award of the Purple Flag, which is a nationally recognised award, is a reflection of the fantastic partnership working taking place within the city. For a number of years, West Mercia Police have actively supported and worked with the Worcester BID, working closely and collaboratively to make a very real difference to the lives of people living, working and visiting Worcester.
“The improvements to local infrastructure such as increased and targeted CCTV, improved lighting and a partners connected radio system has enabled popular venues in and around the city to be attractive to the public, encouraging families and friends to gather and enjoy their time in the City. My local Safer Neighbourhood and Problem Solving Teams compliment the hard work and dedication of our partners and of my wider team of officers and staff in supporting our community.”
Rachael Mitchell, General Manager at Worcester Whitehouse hotel adds: “This award is a reflection of the hard work between Worcester BID and the night-time economy businesses that go out of their way to ensure the city is a safe, interesting and engaging environment offering a wide range of services and facilities to not only its own residents, but also customers and visitors from further afield. This is most important when the hotel is liaising with domestic and international travellers and could make the difference of whether they come to stay in Worcester or not.”
Dean Hill, director of Tramps, Velvet and Mode, comments: “Achieving Purple Flag, along with the Best Bar none accreditations, supports the positive steps that we as licensees and Worcester BID are making to raise the profile of Worcester and make visitors feel safe and have an enjoyable time. As a long-standing night club business owner and resident of Worcester I'd like to thank everyone involved in achieving this award for Worcester.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I am delighted to hear Worcester city centre has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag award.
“I am committed to tackling the traumatic impact anti-social behaviour has on people’s lives. Thanks to my investment of £510,000 through the Safer Streets fund and strong partnership working, we have been able to reduce the number of anti-social behaviour incidents dramatically.
"This year there has been a 47% reduction in the number of anti-social behaviour incidents from April to August compared to the same period in 2021. I want to see the number of incidents continue to go down and with the implementation of modern safety measures like LED streetlights and additional CCTV cameras, I will continue to work with partners to make South Worcestershire even safer.”
For further information on Purple Flag, please visit www.worcesterbid.com.
Events in city centre - A notice from Worcester City Council
Saturday 17 September
Worcester Music Festival stage in Cathedral Square, live performances from 11am to 5pm. For more details visit www.worcestermusicfestival.co.uk
Sunday 18 September
Worcester Music Festival stage in Cathedral Square, live performances from 11am to 3pm.
A Remembrance Service for Queen Elizabeth II will be held at Worcester Cathedral from 4pm to 5pm.
Monday 19 September
The state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II will be livestreamed to a screen in Cathedral Square. The funeral takes place from 11am, however television coverage is likely to be broadcast throughout the day.
We would like all businesses in the immediate vicinity to be aware of these activities taking place. If you have any questions please contact citycentre@worcester.gov.uk
Thank you.
Michelle Newell
Tourism and Events
Worcester City Council
WORSE THAN THE PANDEMIC
BUSINESSES COUNT DOWN THE DAYS AS IMMINENT COLLAPSE OF
THE HIGH STREET MAY BECOME A REALITY
Following rumours of an energy prize freeze, over 150,000 businesses from across the UK are urging Government to act on spiralling energy costs which are proving more detrimental than the pandemic.
The #BusinessSOS campaign warns of mass closure and redundancies if immediate and effective action isn’t taken – the true situation that Britain faces today.
The newly formed #BusinessSOS campaign, founded by organisations representing over 150,000 retail, leisure, hospitality and tourism businesses warns harm caused by the spiralling energy crisis is superseding the pandemic with the potential to cause irreversible damage to UK high streets and the economy.
The #BusinessSOS campaign believes mass closures and redundancies are inevitable if Government does not swiftly implement measures that alleviate the critical pressures that businesses, like households, have been facing since April 2022.
#BusinessSOS three-point-plan to support ailing businesses:
Reduce VAT
• Headline rate reduced from 20% to 12.5%
• Business energy bills reduced from 20% to 5% to match domestic billing
Business Rates Relief
• 100% rate relief until 31st March 2023
Energy Rate Relief
• A discounted kwh price on all business energy bills
Matthew Sims, Founder of #BusinessSOS campaign and CEO of Croydon BID said:
“The new Prime Minister has days to save the high street as we know it. The impending announcement on how the Government will tackle the energy crisis facing businesses will either ensure businesses can remain trading or set in motion mass closures and redundancies. To say the energy crisis is worse that the pandemic is not an understatement, it is the reality facing businesses today and why the clock is ticking for the new Government to provide clarity and introduce measures providing tangible and immediate relief.”
Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive Worcester BID said:
“Government needs to act swiftly and decisively on rising energy costs to reassure businesses and communities across Worcestershire and the UK who are now at breaking point. Further delay could lead to many business owners and households going into debt, closure, and unemployment.
As a business community we need to work together. Worcester is proud to have 67% of its city made up of independent businesses now is the time to support local and keep our local
economy going.”
Andrew Taylor, Founder of #BusinessSOS campaign and Managing Director of Bart & Taylor said:
“Without immediate intervention local communities will change forever as they lose their social spaces. For the first time in living memory, energy costs are now greater than rent and increasing on a daily basis in the absence of any intervention or price cap since April. After surviving the pandemic it seems ludicrous that the needs of businesses are currently not being heard and could see the billions of funding provided during the pandemic go to waste.”
Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said:
“The hospitality sector is crucial to delivering the business-led growth the new Government is striving for, but we are facing an existential crisis due to soaring energy bills. We’re encouraged by the new Prime Minister’s commitment to tackling energy prices, but we need to see urgent, comprehensive action. As well as a price freeze, we need to see a cut to VAT and a business rates holiday if businesses in the sector are to have any hope of making it through the winter.”
Bill Addy CEO of Liverpool BID and Chair of The BID Foundation said:
“Businesses recognise that they benefited from the immediate support given them during the pandemic but we are in danger of all that support being thrown away as those same businesses that have worked valiantly to recover will be decimated by the cost of living crisis. Business is now at a watershed moment that needs an urgent response from our new Prime Minister, they need hope and certainty if they are to survive. It is business that will ensure that UK can grew the economy out of the coming recession but do that business needs to survive and that requires urgent action.”
Ojay McDonald, CEO of Association of Town and City Management said:
“Right now, businesses are already deciding to scale back or shut up shop for good. The knock-on impact on employment is unimaginably bad. We need decisive action from the
government now to save the high street. Let's not shy away from how comprehensive this support needs to be. Energy prices have been unsustainable for months. We are at the stage where a price freeze is inadequate.
Discounts on the cost of energy are vital. We also need to halt the decline of consumer confidence to keep businesses trading. That's why this three-point plan on energy, VAT and businesses rates as a combination is the right route to take.”
Michael Kill, CEO of Night Time Industries Association said:
“Over the last week we have seen a huge escalation in closure notices from pubs, bars, restaurants, venues and clubs across the country, with over 70% of businesses stating they will be financially compromised within weeks, all of which have stated untenable operating costs as reasons too close.”
“The industry's future is finely balanced between the delivery of an imminent survival package by the new Chancellor and continued consumer spend and confidence!”
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said:
“The pub and brewing sector makes a huge contribution to our economy in high streets and local communities throughout the country, yet it still remains in a precarious position after the pandemic. Immediate action on energy is critical, but investment in our sector for the longterm is also essential. As the PM works towards a fiscal statement and full budget we hope she will seriously consider a cut to business rates and VAT so Britain’s pubs and brewers can get back on their feet fully and thrive in the communities they proudly serve.”
Joss Croft, CEO, UKinbound said,
“For the UK’s inbound visitor economy, a £28.4 billion export industry, to continue its recovery and exceed pre-pandemic levels, a fully functioning domestic leisure, retail and hospitality industry is absolutely paramount, however the current inflation and energy crisis is set to derail this. We need swift and decisive action from Government to safeguard businesses and jobs across the country.”
Worcester BID are sponsoring Worcester Paint Fest!
Worcester BID are proud to announce that were sponsoring 2 Artists for the Worcester Paint Festival!
Pogo Stencils
Pogo Stencils is a French artist who specialises in complex, multi-layer stencils. A big name in the Cheltenham Paint Festival 2018 & 2022, he has painted at Upfest, Beeston Paint Festival, Southsea Paint Jam and various locations in Britain.
Helen Haynes Artist
A Worcester based artist who specialises in black and white to produce intricate designs. She loves the challenge of working with two colours. Inspired by the outdoors and having an eye for detail. She even painted Inky the elephant at last year's elephant trail!.
Make sure to come on down to enjoy the festival over the 17th and 18th of September.
Worcester Jobs Fair
Worcester BID are proudly partnering with Worcester News to deliver the jobs fair in October at the Guildhall.
To support businesses with recruitment and attending the fair, Worcester BID are covering half the costs of BID exhibitors. For more details please read the Jobs Fair 2022 Media Pack. CLICK HERE.
The fair acts to support local businesses with recruitment and to further help residents to find work to support with the rising cost of living.
BID Exhibitors receive the following a stand in prime location, extensive advertising on Worcester News and Worcester BID channels, including live on the day posting, news posts and extensive social media impressions.
To enquire about a stall please email info@worcesterbid.com closing date for stall sign up for BID business offer is 16th September 2022.
Worcester Paint Festival is back for 2022!
Worcester Paint Festival (WPF) is an annual city festival bringing renowned names in the street art scene to the city to create a high quality, outdoor free public art trail. You may have seen the murals last September so be prepared for more!
Date: September 17th & 18th with artists starting to paint from Mon12th.
Please contact Kate on worcesterpaintfestival.co.uk if you have a wall that needs a brighten up or would like to sponsor the event in 2023!
FEEL GOOD FOOD IS COMING TO WORCESTER
Korean-inspired eatery Grounded Kitchen is set to open on 29th July on Foregate Street, in the heart of Worcester. This all-new taste sensation will revolutionise how people in the area eat, with its wide range of delicious and nutritious dishes that combine balanced, fresh ingredients with the rich, exciting flavours of Korea.
Grounded Kitchen’s passion for Korean-inspired food is bigger than punchy flavours, though. It’s about giving you a helping hand towards living a healthier, happier more balanced lifestyle. This all stems from Grounded Kitchen’s mantra of ‘Feel Good Food’.
The made-to-order Nourish Bowls make it easy for you to create a dish that suits your tastebuds – and dietary needs. They consist of fresh vegetables such as spinach, carrots, beetroot, peppers, avocado, edamame, sweet potato, spring onions, Korean Kimchi and fresh chillies, on a bed of brown or white rice infused with a range of intense and authentic marinades.
Choose from the aromatic Bulgogi or turn up the heat with the spicy Buldak Fire. You can tailor your bowl however you want with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, from spiced mushrooms, potato, tofu or tempeh, while meat and fish eaters are kept satisfied with sizzling king prawns, angus beef, wild salmon or chicken. Whatever bowl you go for, you can be certain you’ll experience mouthful after mouthful of pure joy.
Alongside the Nourish Bowls, you can choose from filling SsamBaps and Korean Bao, as well as a range of Quenchers that you can select from to suit your mood. Try the refreshing Acai, with strawberries, blueberries, mango and acai, or the Detox Quencher which includes spinach, avocado, lime, basil, apple and spirulina. All are topped with a delicious mix of desiccated coconut, granola, almonds, strawberries and blueberries.
The 960 square foot store will seat 20 diners and create up to 20 new jobs in the city. Like all the stores within the Grounded Kitchen family, everybody that uses the Worcester store will be made to feel comfortable and welcome. You can choose to eat in or take away, plus there’s a delivery service through partners Deliveroo. Store opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 10:00-22:00.
This is the company’s eighth store opening and is an important milestone for the brand as it continues its expansion. To celebrate, the Grounded Kitchen Worcester team are offering 20% off all collection and dine in orders for their first month after opening.
Ralph Llanwarne, Grounded Kitchen’s franchise director, comments: “We’re very excited about opening our first store in Worcester. We pride ourselves on delivering meals so tasty that people forget that our basic focus is on a healthy balance, and we are delighted that the local community will now be able to experience our Korean Nourish Bowls at Grounded Kitchen for themselves.”
So, if you're a fan of clean eating and want to enjoy delicious and nutritious dishes – or simply love sampling new flavours – make sure you try Grounded Kitchen’s feel good food!
For more information follow @getgroundeduk or head to www.groundedkitchen.com for our full menu.
Grounded Kitchen, 7 Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DB
There’s still time to get your entries in for this year’s Worcester Show
Whether you’re a great gardener, a brilliant baker or a creative crafter – there’s still time to showcase your talents at this year’s Worcester Show.
With 140 competition classes, there’s something to suit entrants of all ages – and even the family dog can join in the fun. But don’t leave it too late - entries close on August 8! All entries need to be submitted online at worcestershow.org.uk. Those without internet access can visit the Tourist Information Office for a paper copy.
Classes range from floral displays, fruit and vegetables, jams, cakes, art, photography and handicrafts – and you don’t need to be an expert – novice classes are available, plus classes just for children. Entries for the dog show can be made on the day. All judging will take place on Saturday 13 August, excluding Cacti & Succulents which will be judged on Sunday 14 August.
This year’s Worcester Show will be held on Sunday August 14 in the spacious surroundings of Pitchcroft Racecourse, and it promises to be a great day out for all the family.
Children can enjoy a whole host of activities from bouncy castles and a traditional merry-go-round and the ever-popular bungee rides. Free activities include face-painting with Doorstep Princesses, crafting with Arts & Wonder & Wotahoot and the brilliant Music bus from Severn Arts. A sports zone will offer taster sessions of a variety of different sports and an array of market stalls and independent stalls will offer bargains and gifts galore.
To add to the festival atmosphere, there will be musical entertainment throughout the day spread across two stages, with bands taking to the Tom Jones main stage and other acts appearing on the community stage. For the first time the show will also feature an Asian Mela Marquee showcasing food, art, music, dance and craft from across South Asia. This will include cooking demonstrations and henna and creative craft activities for all the family to enjoy.
The show is delivered by Worcester City Council, supported by the Friends of Worcester Show, and for 2022, in partnership with Worcester BID and Chin Badger Media.
Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Adrian Gregson said: “Worcester Show is always a fantastic day out for all the family and I’m very much looking forward to the event – there is so much to see and do. It’s also a great opportunity to show off your talents, whether they be cookery, gardening or art; it’s well worth entering one – or many - of the competition classes.”
Entries for the show are open until August 8. To enter a class or to find out more about the event, go to www.worcestershow.org.uk
Worcester BID are proud to sponsor the Queen’s Baton Relay
The timings and full line-up for The Queen’s Baton Relay’s route through Worcester have been revealed – with many exciting events taking place across the city.
The Relay – part of the build-up to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games – will arrive on Friday afternoon, with local Batonbearers carrying the Baton around the city, encountering a packed programme of fun and activities along the way.
The main programme of events has been organised by Worcester City Council, working with partners across the city, and with sponsorship form Worcester BID (Business Improvement District). Fiesta, an evening programme of street celebrations at The Arches and the University of Worcester’s City Centre campus, has been programmed by Severn Arts.
The full schedule runs as follows:
- 5:38pm – The first Batonbearer sets off from The Cross
- 5:40pm – High Street
- 5:41pm – The Mayor greets Batonbearer at the Guildhall
- 5:44pm – Cathedral Square
- 5:45pm – Worcester Cathedral: Civil War re-enactors will form a guard of honour at the main entrance; inside, an invited audience will enjoy a DanceFest performance at the tomb of King John
- 5:50pm – College Green (outside Worcester Cathedral south door): open air performance by DanceFest
- 5:54pm – King’s Boathouse: Baton is transported across the Severn by a Dragonboat, with Batonbearer Rebecca Redfern, Paralympics silver medallist; a flotilla of other boats will escort the dragon boat, which will do several loops on the river, heading south and then returning north
- 6:09pm – Dragonboat returns to shore at the Swan Sanctuary Steps, Bromwich Parade, on the opposite bank of the Severn
- 6:11pm - Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road: children form a guard of honour to welcome the Baton; invited audience watch Baton received at a schools’ cricket competition
- 6:18pm - Cripplegate Park (entrance from New Road, by Tennis Courts): the Relay will be greeted by sports demonstrations (organised by freedom Leisure) and a further DanceFest performance
- 6:24pm – Outside University of Worcester Arena, Hylton Road: the road will be closed, allowing for the creation of an open air wheelchair basketball court and the staging of an exhibition match, at which the Baton will be greeted
- 6:28pm – Sabrina Bridge (with flotilla of boats below)
- 6:32pm – Worcester Racecourse: 2014 Grand National winner Pieau De Re will escort his rider and Batonbearer Lizzie Brunt around the southern perimeter of the course, with Worcester Athletics Club running ahead of them. The Army will also be staging free family activities at the racecourse.
- 6:42pm – Castle Street
- 6:45pm – University of Worcester City Campus: Reception for the Baton, including speech from the Mayor. Following this, the final Batonbearer will take the Baton to The Arches, where Fiesta will begin.
All timings will be subject to change on the day. The main event times are shown on the attached map.
Among the best places for visitors and residents to stand to watch the Baton travel through the city are High Street, the Riverside, Hylton Road and Worcester Racecourse.
The evening’s Fiesta, organised by Severn Arts, will start at 7pm, with the Heavy Beat Brass Band parading from the City Campus, to The Arches. There will then be street performances in the area until 9pm, including music, colourful stilt-walkers, Mexican Day of the Dead figures and dragons.
The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Adrian Gregson, said: “The arrival of The Queen’s Baton Relay in Worcester is a true moment for celebration, allowing all of us to cheer on some amazing local people who will be carrying the Baton. It’s very exciting to see such a great programme of fun events being laid on for everyone in our city to enjoy.
“I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to welcome the Relay to our city and to give our residents a chance to share the excitement of the Commonwealth Games. Special thanks are due to Worcester BID for their sponsorship of the big day.”
Road closures orders will be in place along the route before and during the route, with most closed for varying periods of time between 4.30pm and 7pm. Hylton Road, from the retail park to Henwick Road, will be closed from 5.30pm to 8pm, while Cherry Tree Walk, Infirmary Walk and Netherton Court will be closed from midday to 10pm, to allow for the setting up of the baton reception and the Fiesta evening street celebrations.
Full details of the road closures are at www.worcester.gov.uk/advice-benefits/road-closures-for-approved-events.
Birmingham 2022 is hosting the 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay – a journey which brings together and celebrates communities across the Commonwealth during the build-up to the Games. The Relay provides the opportunity for communities to experience the excitement for Birmingham 2022.
The Queen’s Baton Relay is travelling the length and breadth of England, before arriving at the Opening Ceremony for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on 28 July.
Members of the public are encouraged to get involved with the celebrations and embrace the arrival of the Baton, taking the opportunity to experience the buzz of Birmingham 2022 in their community. The Birmingham 2022 website at www.birmingham2022.com/qbr gives more detail on the events and where to line the route.
Thousands of Batonbearers, each with inspiring backgrounds and stories, have been given the honour of carrying the Baton during the journey through England, including those nominated in recognition of their contributions to their local community, whether that be in sport, education, the arts, culture or charity. Between 40 and 130 Batonbearers are carrying the Baton each day, and the Relay will reach hundreds of villages, towns and cities during its tour of the country.
Since its inaugural appearance at the Cardiff 1958 Commonwealth Games, the Queen’s Baton Relay has been a tradition for the Commonwealth Games.
The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay began at Buckingham Palace on 7 October 2021, when The Queen placed her Message to the Commonwealth into the Baton and passed it to four-time Paralympic gold medallist Kadeena Cox, who had the honour of being the first of thousands of Batonbearers to carry the Baton.
Since then, the Baton has visited Commonwealth nations and territories in Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Americas and the Caribbean.
For more information on the Queen’s Baton Relay, visit www.birmingham2022.com/qbr.
A-Plan Insurance collect trophy for Insurance Broker of the Year
A-Plan Insurance (a Howden company) collected the trophy for Insurance Broker of the Year at the prestigious British Insurance Awards on Wednesday 6 July 2022. They were shortlisted alongside strong competition from five other brokers, and were selected not just because of their excellent, highly personalised advised service they provide their clients, but how they immerse themselves in the communities in which they operate, supporting local clubs, charities, schools and businesses.
The event took place at the Royal Albert Hall with over a thousand people from across the insurance industry in attendance. A-Plan CEO Kelly Ogley collected the award and commented;
“I am absolutely delighted and over the moon that we won Broker of the Year at the British Insurance Awards - one of the insurance industry’s more prestigious awards. It’s reflective of our unwavering commitment to caring for our clients, consistently providing top-quality service in everything we do, whether that be to our clients, in the local community or to each other.
We have a great team of people who are passionate about continually going the extra mile for clients, and this is for them. Whilst I had the privilege and honour of collecting the award, it is for the team, for whom it means everything to receive such an accolade. They make me very proud to be their CEO.”
Worcester Branch Manager, James Parker comments “Winning this award means so much to us all, and highlights that being local, utilising data and tech, and providing our clients with a truly personalised advised service is what we are all about. Because we don’t sell insurance online and only offer an advised service, in branch or over the phone, this award celebrates all of those things! We couldn’t be prouder, and look forward to sharing the wonderful news with our clients.”
It was also great that we got to celebrate with colleagues from Howden, Aston Lark, Dual and KGM, who were at the event.”
Congratulations A-Plan!!
Find out more about A-Plan Insurance at www.aplan.co.uk