^{Lawns welcomes Lukas}

The Lawns care home in Alvechurch had the opportunity to celebrate the appointment of new manager Lukas Rokita with an Easter coffee morning for residents, families and friends.

^{Celebration for firm’s first year}

As Bromsgrove business Carpets Rugs & Runners celebrates its first successful year of trading, customers can find even more inspiration for their homes.

^{Village Archive. . . 20 years ago}

A look back at what was happening around here in May 1999.

^{Village Archive. . . 10 years ago}

A look back at what was happening around here in May 2009.

^{Financial planning for the 100-year life}

Martin Pryor suggests ways to ensure a comfortable long retirement.

^{Warming up after chill}

Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.

^{Play-offs beckon for AFC}

Alvechurch FC keep their eyes on the promotion prize.

^{Under the spreading chestnut tree}

Mary Green identifies ‘useful’ trees to look out for in May.

^{Busy month of growing}

Hannah Genders explains how to get the best out of your veg, and looks forward to the Malvern Show.

^{Can you spot the bear?}

Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.

^{Reflecting Bromsgrove}

Bromsgrove artist Richard McIlwraith urges a visit to the annual exhibition at All Saints Church.

^{No need to knead}

Keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, makes an easy loaf with seasonal watercress.

^{Enjoy a social drink}

Julie Ward, a qualified counsellor and coach who specialises in alcohol-related issues, offers one-to-one support to individuals who would like to learn how to reduce their alcohol intake or to stop altogether.

^{Effective hair-loss solution}

A non-surgical hair-loss treatment with instant results and virtually no downtime is now available in Alvechurch.

^{The Village Archive: 10 years ago}

A look back at what was happening around here in April 2009.

^{The Village Archive: 20 years ago}

A look back at what was happening around here in April 1999.

^{A decade of expert eyecare}

Eye Opticians of Barnt Green celebrates its 10th birthday with a brand new look.

^{Ringing the changes of the new tax year}

Tie up loose ends and plan for changes to savings and pensions, writes Martin Pryor.

^{Soggy start to spring}

Alvechurch amateur weatherman Phil Thomas records the changes.

^{Making every game count}

Alvechurch FC move into a crucial phase of the season.

^{Caterpillars and snails}

Mary Green reminds us of the important role played by ‘pests’.

^{Natural water swimming}

Hannah Genders explains the benefits of an all-natural pool.

^{Take-off to the future}

Amateur astronomer Brian Watkiss peers into the Village night sky.

^{Feed the family}

Keen baker Jen Morris, of Rowney Green, creates a vegetable quiche that’s bound to be a hit with the whole clan.