Hereford Voice

A man has been charged with attempted murder following an incident in Moorfield Street, Hereford on Wednesday 9 October. Bryan Robson, aged 49 ,of Moorfield Street appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court this morning (11 October) and has been remanded in custody to appear at Worcester Crown Court on Monday 11 November. A 42 -year-old man remains in hospital in a stable condition. Original news article -

A U.S. citizen has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving that left a British nurse unable to walk. Isaac Calderon was arrested in Texas in July, nearly a year after he collided with Elizabeth Donowho in Shucknall, Herefordshire, resulting in serious injuries. 📷 Go-fund me image The American soldier acknowledged causing significant harm to the nurse through reckless driving after being extradited from the U.S. late Wednesday. Extradition documents reveal that Calderon admitted to vaping before the crash. However, questions remain about his affiliation, as police informed the victim that he was visiting a British special forces base (SAS) in Herefordshire at the time of the incident. Elizabeth Donowho broke both of her ankles in the collision and was also left with a fractured sternum and a broken bone in her hand. She was unable to walk for six weeks following the collision. It happened on the A4103 near Shucknall in Herefordshire on 31 July. Elizabeth Donowho was seriously injured following a collision with a car JACOB KING/PA

We were treated to a fabulous northern lights show in parts of the UK last night, we took these photographs from our garden.

Police are currently at the scene after a man was seriously assaulted in Hereford. Police were called to a property on Moorfield Street at 4.25pm today (9 October) to reports that two men had sustained knife injuries. One of the men, aged 42, has sustained serious, potentially life threatening injuries and has been airlifted to hospital. Another man, aged 49, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Detective Inspector Jordan Baker said “ We understand that communities may feel concerned but we believe this to be an isolated incident. Officers including firearms officers swiftly attended the scene and a man has been arrested. Enquiries are ongoing and police are in attendance in the area.”

Hereford Library is temporarily relocating to Hereford Town Hall while the Shirehall undergoes a two-year renovation Following consultation with library users, who said they would prefer for Hereford library to be in a more central location, Hereford Library is temporarily moving to Hereford Town Hall until its permanent new home at Shirehall is completed. Hereford Town Hall was chosen for its central location near High Town, ample parking and greater space for programming and book stock. As part of the move, the current temporary library at the Museum Resource and Learning Centre on Friars Street will close on Saturday 12 October 2024. The new library space at Hereford Town Hall will open on Tuesday 22 October 2024. The library’s temporary new home will officially launch over half term with a week-long programme featuring family-friendly activities, drop-in crafts, Storytime and Baby Sign sessions, and a performance by Sea Legs Puppet Theatre. Visitors will also have the opportunity to view the exciting design proposals for the new Library and Learning Centre at Shirehall, and share their feedback.

The Duke of Edinburgh visits NMITE’s Centre for Advanced Timber Technology New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) is delighted to welcome The Duke of Edinburgh to the Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT) at their Skylon Campus on 1st October 2024. His Royal Highness, who will be accompanied by the Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Mr Edward Harley CBE, will meet NMITE’s President and Chief Executive Officer, James Newby, academic staff and NMITE students, including those who have recently entered the workplace. The visit will include a tour of NMITE’s Skylon Campus, providing an opportunity for His Royal Highness to get hands-on with NMITE’s unique approach to learning, and will conclude with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Ahead of the visit James Newby, President & Chief Executive said “This will be an amazing opportunity to show The Duke of Edinburgh how NMITE is a transformative force in UK university and technical education, redefining engineering and construction training on a national scale, how we are providing new educational opportunities for local people and helping to overcome the barriers to regional economic growth. Our overarching goal is to generate substantial employment, skills development, and economic impacts for Herefordshire, fulfilling the institution's intended role as a catalyst for positive change in the region.” During the visit, His Royal Highness will meet NMITE’s Foundation Year students, along with MEng and BEng Integrated Engineering students, some of whom will be showcasing their engineering and technology projects. Several of NMITE’s Pioneers (NMITE’s first student intake from 2021) who have now entered the workplace will also be among those on-site to welcome His Royal Highness. Representatives from NMITE’s recent Retrofit programme, and Timber Technology Engineering Design (TED) short courses will also be in attendance. The venue for the visit, Skylon Campus, completed in 2021, has been recognised with a Construction Excellence Social Impact Award and is an exemplar of timber-based modern methods of construction. Designed as a demonstration of the benefits of using timber as a building material, the building is a "Living Lab" and also stores 330,000 kg of CO2e, serving as a beacon for sustainability in the region and beyond. Academic staff who will be present include Professor Robert Hairstans, CATT Director, Professor David Oloke, Chief Academic Officer and Steve Bertasso, Associate Professor. CATT which was established as a partnership between NMITE and Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) has drawn particular praise from industry and government for its part in developing innovation in timber construction. Professor Hairstans, NMITE’s CATT Director, is also a Professor of offsite and industrialised construction at ENU’s School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment (SCEBE). Hairstans says “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to explain how CATT is being established as a nationally renowned centre for research and education excellence in timber construction for the delivery and upgrade of the built environment. Our work in collaboration with the sector and throughout the supply chain has an important part to play in achieving the net zero carbon ambitions of the UK whilst enabling a just transition by means of upskilling and reskilling the professionals of the future.”

A Herefordshire care home has celebrated its 20th year of delivering care to the local community with a party for its staff and residents. The milestone celebration, which was attended by Shaw healthcare’s CEO, Russell Brown and chairman, Simon Macsorley, was held at Orchard House in Withington on Thursday 5 September. Residents and their families enjoyed afternoon tea, cakes and entertainment from local singer, Darrel Barnsdale, who performed many of the resident’s favourite hits from the likes of Elvis and Johnny Cash. During the event, several employees were recognised for their long service and 90 years of combined experience. There was a special mention for support workers, Susan Stocker and Claire Griffiths who celebrated 25 years at the home, having transferred from Herefordshire Council when Shaw healthcare took over the operation of Orchard House in 2004. Service manager, Michelle Orris commented: “It’s been so lovely to mark this special occasion with residents and their families, and not forgetting the wonderful team here who strive to provide a high standard of care to those who live here.” Orchard House provides residential care as well as operating a day care service. Shaw is the largest employee owned care provider in the UK.

A man has been arrested this afternoon (4 October) following a report of him carrying a bow and arrow at Herefordshire and Ludlow College, Folly Lane in Hereford. West Mercia Police Officers believe this to be an isolated incident, and officers will remain in the area to offer reassurance to students, staff and the community.

Specialist conservation work on the exterior of the iconic Black and White House Museum in Hereford has been completed a month ahead of schedule. The Grade I listed timber-framed building, dating back to 1621, is one of the county's most treasured heritage sites. Originally built as a butcher's home, the building has served as a museum since 1929, offering visitors a glimpse into 17th-century life. Despite the ongoing restoration, the museum has remained open to the public, ensuring minimal disruption to its visitors. The project, which focused on repairing and conserving the historic exterior, was due to be completed by the end of October but has been completed ahead of time, allowing the building to be fully enjoyed in the coming months. The work was carefully timed to coincide with the summer months, ensuring that the materials used in the repairs could set properly. Come and explore the Black and White House Museum, open Tuesday to Sunday. Enjoy entry for just £3.50 for adults, with special offers available! Opening hours for the Black and White House: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm Special Offer: Entry for 2 adults plus a guidebook for £10. Standard entry prices: Adults: £3.50 Under 16s: Free Students (with valid ID): Free Don’t miss this chance to explore a piece of local history! For more information, please visit the Black and White House Museum or contact Herefordshire Council's Museum Service.

Local MP Jesse Norman has expressed his strong support for two great initiatives in South Wye, the new CMA debt advice service and the community food parcels provided to needy families. Speaking on a visit to Putson Baptist Church, Jesse said: "These are both fantastic local community initiatives, aimed at helping people to get out of debt, and feeding more than sixty local families with good, nutritious food. "I warmly congratulate Revd Andy Goode and the whole team at the Baptist Church in Putson for their energy and spirit in making them happen."

Royal visit takes place tomorrow!

No real surprises here now that they have got planning, they will just keep pushing for more

Hereford AppleFest is starting today, 28 September to 13 October. 2 weeks of incredible apple-themed events are taking place across the County Today will be a day full of live music, artisan cider, perry & apple juice, children’s activities, art and exhibitions https://orlo.uk/UtQPZ

The Royal visit is on Tuesday 1st October. Diary Of Events: 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗗 🔷 New Model Institute For Technology & Engineering’s Centre for Advanced Timber Technology, Skylon Campus, Canary Drive, Hereford HR2. 🔷 Herefordshire Veteran Support Centre, 19 West Street, Hereford HR4. 🔷 Holme Lacy College, Holme Lacy, Campus, Hereford HR2 6LL 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗠𝗢𝗨𝗧𝗛 🔷 The Duke of Edinburgh Member of the Court of Assistants, The Worshipful Company of Haberdashers will open the Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, 24 Hereford Road, Monmouth NP2. The Duke of Edinburgh is His Majesty The King’s brother and the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He dedicates much of his time as a full-time working member of the Royal Family to championing young people and promoting the benefits of non-formal education across the world. The Duke of Edinburgh is proud to support the work of the Armed Forces both in the United Kingdom and overseas. He holds a total of eight military appointments and meets service personnel and their families whenever possible.

This winter, Sugar Shack Bakery, an independent family-run café, is set to open its doors in Old Market, Hereford, offering a friendly, welcoming atmosphere alongside handmade, mouthwatering treats. Known for their delicious brownies, cookies and artisan coffee, Sugar Shack bakery is set to become the new go-to coffee destination for locals and visitors alike. Founded two years ago, Sugar Shack Bakery has its roots int the South West. Elly, the owner and Head Baker, handcrafts all of our brownies, bakes and cookies at the Swindon bakehouse, which are shipped nationwide and stocked in our cafes and numerous other locations across the UK, with both wholesale and little treats. FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO EXPANSION Sugar Shack Bakery began during lockdown when Elly, on maternity leave, started baking from home with her husband and co-owner Dean. What began as a home-bound hobby quickly grew into a thriving business. As demand skyrocketed, Elly left her recruitment job to focus full time on baking. Soon, they outgrew their home kitchen and decided to take a leap by opening a bakery café as opposed to just a commercial kitchen. Their first brick-and-mortar café in Swindon proved a huge success. After two busy years, they expanded to a larger bakehouse, known as Number 8, where all of Sugar Shack’s goods are now baked and decorated by hand. With the business continuing to grow, Sugar Shack is ready for the next phase of it’s journey: opening a new café in Hereford. The Hereford location will offer the same signature handmade bakes, delicious coffee, and welcoming atmosphere that Sugar Shack is so well known for. SUGAR SHACK AT OLD MARKET, HEREFORD The new Hereford cafe will feature Sugar Shack’s renowned brownies, along with cookie pies, cookie bombs, milkshakes and seasonal bakes. Customers can expect the signature Sugar Shack touch- bright plants, neon lights, and plenty of pink- the cafe of dreams! Hereford was chosen for its vibrant, growing community of young professionals and families who appreciate unique, independent businesses. The city’s thriving café culture makes it the perfect home for Sugar Shack Bakery, which is excited to become a part of the community and to host lots of exciting events and gatherings in the space. WHAT MAKES SUGAR SHACK BAKERY SPECIAL? Sugar Shack Bakery isnt just about coffee and bakes- it’s about creating a luxury experience. The bakery team aims to provide more than just a visit; it’s an escape from the everyday into a little pocket of loveliness. With a personal touch and a sense of charm, Sugar Shack can truly set itself apart from the average chain café. As Swindon’s first “Instagram café”, Sugar Shack’s pretty-in-pink interior, paired with bakes that will make you drool, it is a must-visit for those who love an aesthetically pleasing vibe. Every little treat is as photo-worthy as it looks delicious. The Hereford location will also offer a loyalty card program, as well as discounts for students and Blue Light Card holders. STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES Keep an eye on Sugar Shack Bakery’s social media for updates on job opportunities, grand opening celebrations, and exclusive offerings at the new Hereford cafè. You won’t want to miss what’s coming next! Facebook: Sugar Shack Instagram: @sugar.shack20

Hopefully work will be completed soon

A man, who was convicted of stealing an Anglo- Saxon treasure hoard, has been handed a further prison sentence after failing to fully repay a £600,000 confiscation order. Layton Davies, aged 56, will serve a further 5 years and 4 months in prison after a court hearing last week. The confiscation order was made in December 2022, and he was ordered by a judge to repay a total of £603,180.09 within three months. The judge made a hidden assets order, which took into account the wholesale value of 300 coins, which were believed to still be held in his possession. By serving his prison sentence in default of the payment, he will still be liable for the outstanding payment which remains with him for life or until it is paid in full. Davies only repaid around half of the confiscation order. From this, the land owners and those who were sold coins by Davies from the horde which were later seized, received some reimbursement. In 2019, Davies was convicted of theft, conspiracy to conceal criminal property and conspiracy to convert criminal property. He was sentenced eight years in prison, later reduced to five years following a successful appeal. The conviction followed a lengthy investigation by West Mercia Police following several reports from the metal detecting community and the British Museum of an unreported large treasure find near Eye in Herefordshire in 2015. It was discovered that Davies had visited the site of the hoard, which included Anglo-Saxon coins, jewellery and silver ingots during Spring 2015. He not only failed to disclose the extent of the discovery he was involved in- a requirement under the Treasure Act 1996 - but also sold a large number of the items for significant personal financial gain. The treasure was described by experts as being of national importance both for Anglo-Saxon coinage and for the wider understanding of a key period in English history. DC Stevyn Pritchett from the Economic Crime Unit said “This case exemplifies how seriously the police and courts take financial crime, and the significant implications of failing to repay confiscation orders. Davies will still be liable to repay the outstanding amount, even when his extended sentence is served. Criminals cannot profit from their actions. “I’d like to thank everyone involved in this unusual case, including Herefordshire County Council’s conservation and environment team and The British Museum, for their support throughout the justice process.”

Two county lines drug dealers who trafficked drugs into Herefordshire have been sentenced to a total of ten years. Harnaik Mahli, 44, of Worlds End Lane, Quinton, Birmingham, and Keller Preece, 27, of Kingsway, Hereford, were found guilty at Worcester Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday 10 September). Mahli and Preece were running a well-established county line – the name of the telephone number, or ‘deal line’, used to run the organised drug-dealing network – distributing cocaine and cannabis into Herefordshire for substantial profit. Mahli was at the top of the chain of the group and would supply Preece who established himself as a significant member of the drug trafficking enterprise in Herefordshire. Preece led the day to day running of the line and had others under him running drugs on his behalf. On 10 November 2023, police acting on intelligence stopped a vehicle on Old School Lane in Hereford and found Preece in possession of approximately £14,000 cash. A search of his home address found a large quantity of cannabis, approximately £3,500 more in cash and an extendable baton. Phone evidence showed he was dealing cocaine and cannabis, and he was charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of criminal property. On 13 February this year, police were called to reports Mahli and Preece were in Hereford using weapons and threats to settle a drugs debt. Preece and Mahli were stopped nearby in a vehicle on Blue School Street. A wooden bat was found in the passenger seat of the vehicle, Preece was hostile with officers and tried to run off, pushing over a police officer, before being restrained and arrested. Following this incident, charges were secured on both men for being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis. Yesterday, Preece was found guilty of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs – cocaine for which he was given four years in prison and being concerned in the supply of class B drugs – cannabis, for which he was given an 18-month sentence to run concurrently. He was further convicted of possessing an offensive weapon, causing criminal damage to property and assault emergency worker and given a one month, 18-month and one month term for each of those respective offences, all to run concurrently, giving him a total term of five years and six months. Mahli was handed a sentence of three years and four months for being concerned in the supply of class A drugs – cocaine and 18 months to run concurrently for being concerned in the supply of class B drugs – cannabis, giving him a total sentence of four years and ten months after days he was tagged were taken into account. Detective Constable Lia Williams, of Hereford CID, said: “We are pleased with the outcome of yesterday’s court hearing which has removed another county line from the streets of Herefordshire. “Mahli and Preece were running the Mahli line which was responsible for trafficking class A and B drugs into the county and imposing a grip of fear over local users, so their conviction has removed another risk to the public.”

Rezhin Gharib, 36, of Tudor Street in Liverpool, has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The charge is in relation to an incident at Best Trim Barbers on Belmont Road in Hereford on 17 August 2024. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Worcester Crown Court on 16 September 2024.

The lights in this city are a joke!

A man has been sentenced to nine and a half years for child sex offences. Carl Higgins aged 30 of Widemarsh Street in Hereford was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court yesterday on Thursday after he was found guilty of rape of a child, three sexual assaults and causing a child to engage in sexual activity. The offences took place between 2014 and 2017. In addition to his custodial sentence, he has also been issued an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and an indefinite restraining order. Detective Constable Fiona Pearson said “This sentence demonstrates that the police and courts will strive to remove harmful predators from society and bring some form of justice. “Thanks to the victim’s bravery and courage Higgins will serve a lengthy sentence. We would always encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, no matter how long ago, to come forward to speak with the police. We have specially trained officers, who can support throughout the process and we work with a number of agencies who can also support.” For further help and support: 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗺 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 Call 0800 952 3000 – you will get through to a care coordinator who will discuss with you what you need Email info@victimadviceline.org.uk and a care coordinator will respond to you. Online chat at victimadviceline.org.uk– this option, allows you to talk to a care coordinator if it’s not possible, or convenient, to talk on the phone 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗺 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 If you have been a victim of crime and would like support from the charity call the local office 01905 726896 or the support line 0808 1689 111 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗥𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝘅𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 (𝗪𝗠𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗦𝗖) For support call 01905 724514 (Worcestershire) or 01432 344777 (Herefordshire)