Hereford Voice
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A man has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in Bromyard on Saturday (27 September). Emergency services attended an address on Apple Tree Close around 6am and a 61-year-old woman was sadly found deceased. Julian Thomas, 54, of no fixed abode is charged with murder and has been remanded to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court tomorrow (Tuesday 30 September).
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A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a woman at an address on Apple Tree Close in Bromyard. Emergency services attended the address around 6am this morning (Saturday 27 September) and a 61-year-old woman was sadly found dead. A 54-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Detective Inspector Joanne Delahay said: โOur thoughts are with the family of the woman who has sadly lost her life. โI understand an incident of this nature will cause shock and concern amongst the local community, but I would like to offer reassurance that this was an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public. โYou will notice a higher police presence in the area in the coming days as officers investigate this incidentโ.
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Plans have been submitted to Herefordshire Council for the 'Proposed shop fit out and installation of replacement signage' at the unit formally occupied by Mother Natures Goodies, on the corner of St Peter's Street and Commercial Street. ๐ฅ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ก๐ฆ Ramsdens Financial Limited ("Ramsdens") has branches located on high streets throughout Northern England, Southern England, Scotland and Wales and offers a range of services. Nearly all of the branches have the appearance of a jewellers but also contain bank style counters that provide a mix of financial services. At the jewellery counters and displays you can view and buy new and second hand jewellery at great value. In the bank style financial area you can get your travel money for your holiday, arrange a pawnbroking loan or sell your unwanted jewellery. The first Ramsdens branch opened in 1987 in Stockton-on-Tees and since then we have been trusted by over 1 million people to provide a simple solution to meet their needs. ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ช๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ฌ๐ผ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ ๐๐ ๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐๐!
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Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust (HWHCT) employees will be taking part in the Baton of Hope tour as it arrives in Hereford on the 2nd October 2025. This powerful national initiative is the UKโs largest suicide prevention campaign, aiming to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and inspire action to save lives. The Baton of Hope tour, which began in Blackpool and will conclude in London on World Mental Health Day (10th October), brings together communities, charities, and public services in a united stand against suicide. Sue Harris and Graham Childs, both baton bearers for the Baton of Hope 2025 The baton itself is a symbol of hope, resilience, and collective responsibility. Speaking ahead of the event, Sue Harris, Director of Strategy and Partnerships at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, and baton bearer said: โEvery suicide is a heartbreaking loss, and we all have a part to play in preventing them. Iโm honoured to carry the Baton of Hope on behalf of our Trust and the people we support. โThis is a moment to stand together, speak openly, and ensure that support is visible and accessible for everyone.โ As part of the dayโs activities, HWHCT will be providing resources and information to help individuals and families access mental health support, alongside partners such as Onside, Herefordshire Mind and Herefordshire Council. Graham Childs, Chair of the LGBTQ+ staff network and Registered Nursing Associate who will also carry the baton said: โIโm grateful to be involved in this event, both as a representative of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, which provides mental health services, and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. โIโm passionate about reaching out to support individuals in the wider community, raising awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and beyond where possible, and encouraging men to feel comfortable speaking out and seeking help.โ People are encouraged to visit the Baton of Hope website for more information.
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Frank Myers MBE After nine years of dedicated leadership, Frank Myers MBE will step down as Chairman of Herefordshire Community Foundation (HCF) this October. In a planned transition, current trustee Robert Robinson will assume the role. Frankโs tenure has been marked by transformative impact. Under his stewardship, HCF has significantly raised its profile and launched key initiatives including the Business for Good scheme. His legacy is underscored by the Foundationโs milestone achievement of ยฃ8 million in local grant-making - a testament to his vision, energy, and unwavering commitment to Herefordshire. In Frankโs words: โIt has been a huge privilege to be entrusted with this role and to enjoy its success. We have built a very strong and respected team, an excellent Board of Trustees and a very sound financial platform to match any in the country. During my tenure I have tried to exploit the position we have as a 'foundation' of the 'community'. This has borne fruit in so many ways as we have been able to help so many organisations and people in the County. I am sad that the charitable rules require me to leave but am eager to embrace the next challenge of assisting Robert and the Trustees in every possible way as they build further success.โ Bridie Sullivan, CEO of HCF, shared: โFrank has brought compassion, a wealth of experience, vital local connections, and boundless energy to the role of Chairman. He has been instrumental in strengthening the Foundation and its role in supporting communities across Herefordshire.โ Incoming Chair Robert Robinson brings extensive leadership experience across both private and voluntary sectors. A Herefordshire resident for 45 years, he served as High Sheriff in 2023โ2024 and has held numerous board-level roles. Mr Robinsonโs deep local roots and strategic insight make him ideally placed to take the helm as HCF enters its next chapter. Robert Robinson commented: โI'm so pleased to be taking the Chair at Herefordshire Community Foundation. HCF is an exceptionally well managed charity with very high standards of governance and as High Sheriff in 2023-24 it was one of the Herefordshire organisations where I could see myself adding most value. HCF is a very significant force for good in Herefordshire with a great Board of Trustees, great leadership and a great back office team. I'm really looking forward to my time of service."
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Herefordshire Council is proud to announce that the John Haider building will be renamed the John Venn Building, in tribute to the 19th-century clergyman and philanthropist whose legacy continues to shape the cityโs social fabric. _________________________________________________________________________________ The council have been discussing the idea of reverting to the former name of the building since it was purchased and wanted to formally announce this following a supportive city council meeting which took place yesterday (Wednesday). The building will be repurposed to provide temporary accommodation, supporting residents in need, a mission that closely aligns with John Vennโs lifelong commitment to helping people rebuild their lives through dignity, opportunity, and community support. John Venn served as vicar of St Peterโs and St Owenโs churches from 1833 to 1870 and, alongside his sister Emelia, founded the Hereford City Mission and the Hereford Society for Aiding the Industrious (HSAI). Cabinet member for Economy and Growth, Cllr Graham Biggs said: โRenaming this building is more than symbolic, itโs a reaffirmation of our commitment to the values John Venn championed. โHis work in housing, health, and education transformed lives, and we hope this space will continue that legacy by offering residents support at a time of need and helping them on their journey to independent living.โ Many of Venn's pioneering initiatives, including the City Mission, continue to operate today, having been reborn in 2013 as Vennture. Their spokesperson Imogen Abbott said: โWe continue John and Emelia Vennโs legacy by walking alongside those who are vulnerable or marginalised, offering practical support, compassionate presence, and a belief that transformation begins with a relational approach. โWe are delighted to hear that the building will be renamed in his honour, a fitting tribute to his legacy.โ
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Herefordshire Council has approved a ยฃ2.055 million investment over the next two years to strengthen flood resilience across the county for homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the areas most affected by flooding. Flooding has caused widespread disruption in recent years, with over 400 properties impacted and many roads closed in 2024 alone. The funding will support a comprehensive Flood Response Programme, delivered over 2025/26 and 2026/27, designed to reduce both the likelihood and impact of future flood events. Work has been underway over the summer to complete formal flood investigations and identify opportunities for schemes which will provide long-term protection in areas previously affected by flooding. The funding will deliver a mix of engineered and nature-based schemes to improve flood resilience across the county. The programme will also help communities by providing signage and monitoring technology, improving our response to flooding. In addition, specialist software will be procured to help the council plan for and manage flood events more effectively. The investment will also be used to unlock further national grants where partnership contributions are required to access central government support. By allocating council funds, Herefordshire can demonstrate local commitment and leverage significantly larger sums from national sources. Cabinet Member for Local Engagement and Community Resilience, Councillor Dan Hurcomb, said: โThis investment is about protecting what matters most, our homes, our livelihoods, and our communities. โBy prioritising the areas hit hardest, weโre making sure this funding delivers real, lasting benefits for the people of Herefordshire.โ In addition to the work supported by this funding, the council is actively progressing several other flood initiatives. These include offering drainage grants to parish and town councils, providing community flood equipment to 38 parish and town councils, and supporting them in developing their own flood plans.
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Water First Responders, Together With Colleges From Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Rescue Elderly Man From River Wye. A spokesperson for Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service told Hereford Voice 'Three Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service crews โ one each from Hereford, Ewyas Harold and Fownhope Fire Station, including Herefordโs water first responders โ plus the boat crews from Hereford and Worcester and the Service drone from Ledbury were called to a rescue from the water at the Victoria Bridge in Hereford at 03:15 this morning (23 September). A man in his 70s was rescued from the water and handed over to the care of the ambulance service (Officialwmas) who attended along with Hereford Police. ๐ข Hereford Voice - '๐ง๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ธ ๐ฌ๐ผ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฌ๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฒ' ๐๐๐
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A New 'ChicKing' Restaurant could soon be open ing in Hereford if plans are approved. Planning for a new commercial kitchen in the former Chadds unit at 25 Commercial Street have been submitted. Proposed installation of Kitchen Extraction To Proposed Restaurant 25 Commercial Street, Hereford, HR1 2DJ (To be read in conjunction with drawings & Heritage / Planning Statement) Proposed installation of kitchen extraction including external flue and minor internal non structural fit out works
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Herefordshire Council has secured convictions against a man who failed to leave council owned land. On Tuesday 9 September 2025, at Hereford Magistratesโ Court, the court heard how on 2 January 2025, Tyson Biddle, aged 21, of no fixed abode, was found residing in a caravan and vehicle on land at Openfields caravan site, Bromyard, and occupying a plot without consent. The council served a Section 77 Direction to Leave under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, requiring Mr Biddle to vacate the site by 5pm on 5 January 2025. Mr Biddle failed to comply with the notice and council officers obtained a Section 78 Removal Order. The court was told that Mr Biddle then purchased a new caravan and without permission, began residing on the main roadway of the Openfields site. A second Section 77 Direction to Leave was served, which Mr Biddle again failed to comply with. CCTV showed Mr Biddle dismantling his original caravan and setting fire to it and other items over an eight-hour period on 20 February 2025, causing several explosions and thick black smoke across the Openfields site and neighbouring land. Following a complaint, council officers attended the next day to investigate and were subjected to abuse and aggressive behaviour and were obstructed from leaving the site. West Mercia Police investigated the incident, and Mr Biddle was charged with a public order offence. Mr Biddle was brought to court on 9 September by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and convicted of a fly-tipping offence and of using threatening, abusive or insulting words towards a council officer. He was ordered to pay costs of ยฃ1,049 and a received a community order for 18 months, including 25 rehabilitation days under a Drug Rehabilitation Requirement (DRR). Charles Yarnold, Head of Regulation & Technical Services at Herefordshire Council, said: โOur message is clear - those who ignore lawful directions, blight our environment with waste, or intimidate public servants will face firm action. Iโm grateful to our Gypsy Traveller Team, colleagues across the council, West Mercia Police and the CPS for their work to protect residents and support our officers. We will continue to use every available power to keep Herefordshire safe and clean.โ
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A man has today, 12 September, been sentenced for the murder of 54-year-old Jamie Gawler. Matthew Jonathan, 39, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty and was handed 32 years at Worcester Crown Court. Please note: the injuries depicted here were the result of a medical episode. On Saturday 18 January 2025, the brother of Mr Gawler called his mobile phone which was answered by a South Wales police officer. The officer informed him that the phone had been found by police earlier that day at Porth railway station. He was then concerned for the welfare of his brother and attended his flat on Brierley Court in Hereford. Upon entering the property, he sadly found him deceased. When South Wales police officers found Jamieโs mobile phone at Porth railway station they also located bank cards in his name along with bank cards in the name of Matthew Jonathan. A murder investigation was launched, and Jonathan became a suspect. Jonathan was arrested on Sunday 19 January by South Wales Police and subsequently transferred to Hereford Police Station, where he was interviewed by detectives. It was quickly established that Jamie had died as the result of a vicious and prolonged assault over a number of days at the hands of Jonathan, which he filmed on his mobile phone, and he was charged with murder. Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Lougher, of West Mercia Policeโs Major Investigation Unit, said: โWe really welcome todays sentencing of Mathew Jonathan. โHe will now serve a significant period of time in prison and whilst it will never bring Jamie back to his loved ones, hopefully it will bring some closure towards being an unimaginably difficult time for them. โThankfully, Jonathan pleaded guilty to the murder and that saved his family going through and reliving the ordeal that Jamie went through in the final days of his life. โI would also like to thank my investigation team who worked tirelessly, through some extremely difficult circumstances, to bring about todayโs sentencing. โThe investigation involved various teams from a number of forces who all worked together to bring Jonathan to justiceโ. In a statement Jamieโs family said: โWe would like to thank the West Mercia Police and prosecution team for their dedication and support in bringing this case to its conclusion. โThe last eight months have been extremely traumatic for our family as we try, in our own way, to process the loss of Jamie, our son, brother, uncle and friend to many. Our lives have been changed forever and today has been another difficult day having to revisit what happened, but we are glad that some justice has been achieved. โJamie will be forever in our hearts and remembered as the kind, funny and gentle man that he was.โ
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Police are appealing for witnesses and a man has been arrested after a woman was raped within a property in South Street, Leominster. The incident happened on Thursday 4 September, into the early hours of Friday 5 September, where a woman, in her 50s, was falsely imprisoned and raped. A 50-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape, false imprisonment and administering a poisonous / noxious substance with intent to injure. He has been released on bail as enquiries continue. Police are keen to hear from anyone who can assist with enquiries, particularly anyone who may have seen anything suspicious on South Street on the morning of Thursday 4 September. Detective Inspector Edward Jones said: โI understand that incidents such as this will bring huge concern to the local community, and we would like to reassure people that we are conducting a detailed investigation and that additional officers will remain in the area. โA 50-year-old man was quickly arrested after we received the reportโ. โWe would urge anyone who was in the area of South Street at around 9am-10am on Thursday, and who has any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem to get in touchโ Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Polly Price on 01905 973417 or via email polly.price@westmercia.police.uk Information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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Extra officers set to boost neighbourhood policing across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire will be in post by the end of the month. Earlier this year, the force announced neighbourhood policing is set to receive an additional 29 police constables, five of whom will be dedicated rural crime officers, two sergeants and 20 police community and support officers (PCSOs). The investment supports the delivery of the Police and Crime Commissionerโs West Mercia Safer Communities Plan, while also contributing to the national Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee. West Mercia Police Local Policing Assistant Chief Constable, Grant Wills, said: โMaking our communities safer and building confidence is underpinned by neighbourhood policing and we know our local communities want to see more officers in their area. Bolstering our safer neighbourhood and town centre teams across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire will help achieve this and improve the service we deliver.โ It has also been agreed that the hours PCSOs work will change following a recent consultation. ACC Wills said: โPCSOs play a pivotal role in neighbourhood policing and community engagement, providing crucial support to our local communities as part of our safer neighbourhood and town centre teams. โWe have considered the key times when PCSOs can be most effective and visible for our communities and following a period of consultation it has been agreed they will now finish at 8pm. It is important to note, this does not reduce the hours PCSOs work but changes their hours of work to ensure they are on duty at the best times to carry out their role; officers will continue to be on duty and patrol throughout our neighbourhoods 24/7 365 and now in greater numbers.โ In March, the force launched its refreshed Local Policing Charter, which is based on three principles โ visibility, accessibility and engagement โ and sets out the forceโs promise to ensure a two-way conversation to understand how local teams can respond to concerns and improve confidence in the service we deliver. ACC Wills added: โWe are committed to building safer, stronger communities through visible, accessible, and engaging police activity.โ Every area served by West Mercia Police has a named local officer, to find out who your local officer is visit our website www.westmercia.police.uk and enter your postcode in the โfind your areaโ section.
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Earlier this month, 3 St Georgeโs flags appeared overnight on the railings outside Hereford Cathedral, see original article here - https://hfd.news/flags They were quickly removed the following morning by the Cathedralโs Head of Estates, Alan Reid, who explained to us that while the Cathedral proudly flies the St Georgeโs Cross from its tower, there is a proper procedure for attaching anything to Cathedral property to prevent damage and ensure permissions are in place. In response and following Alanโs advice and with full respect to the Cathedral, Hereford Voice submitted a formal application to display 6 flags โ 3 Union Flags and 3 St Georgeโs Cross flags โ along the Cathedral railing on Broad Street. Our aim was to create a respectful and temporary display to coincide with a significant community event. We first contacted the SSAFA Herefordshire and proposed aligning the flags with the 140th anniversary celebrations of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. As part of our proposal, we also offered to provide free advertising support across our network to help promote the SSAFA 140th anniversary concert in October, as well as pledging a donation to both SSAFA Herefordshire and Hereford Cathedral in recognition of their work. Sadly, SSAFA Herefordshire declined permission to connect the display with their concert in October, citing reputational considerations... Following that outcome, we approached Hereford Cathedral to suggest that the flags might instead coincide with the upcoming Magna Carta weekend event., but this was also declined. Marc Leppard, Chief Operating Officer at Hereford Cathedral, told us: โIt is very important to us that the flags which represent our country and nation should always be flown with the due respect they deserve. At the moment, we have no immediate plans to permit any additional displays of the St Georgeโs Cross, Union Flag or any other flags, in any locations within the Cathedral Close aside from the cathedral tower.โ Hereford Voice - Although this decision is disappointing, we fully respect the positions of both SSAFA Herefordshire and Hereford Cathedral. However, we will still honour our donation pledges and continue to advertise up and coming events, as it is important to us to continue supporting these valued organisations. Hereford Voice remains committed to supporting Herefordshireโs community, heritage, local events, charities and traditions. We will continue to seek out new ways to celebrate our history and national identity in positive and respectful ways.
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A potentially lifesaving kit to help anyone suffering a severe bleed has been unveiled in Leominster by the mum of a 17-year-old stabbing victim. Reuben Higgins, who lived in Leominster, died last October having been stabbed in the leg, arm and chest. He was chased into a shop in the Marston Green area of Solihull before being attacked. Three teenagers have been found guilty of his murder. This week, Reubenโs mum, Sarah, unveiled an Emergency Bleed Control Kit, which is attached to the wall of the Station Yard shop in Leominster. โMy children wanted to help anyone who might be in the same situation as their brother was,โ said Sarah. โSo, I did a bit of research into it and then happened to be in the St Michaelโs Hospice shop in Leominster and began chatting to Bob about it.โ Bob Miles is a St Michaelโs volunteer at the Station Yard shop and is also a Community First Responder. As well as the Bleed Control Kit, he has also been instrumental in securing a defibrillator which is also attached to the Station Yard shopโs front wall. Sarah and her family funded the Bleed Control Kit. She says it can play a pivotal role in providing aid to someone experiencing life-threatening external bleeding, and can be used by members of the public and medical professionals. โI want to get as many of these kits around as possible,โ added Sarah. โIf there was one nearby when Reuben was stabbed, it may have saved his life. He was an amazing son; my best friend, and we miss him so much.โ Reubyโs Foundation has been set up in memory of Reuben and to support others who have experienced a sudden unexpected loss. Reuby's Foundation - https://www.reubysfoundation.com/
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A man from Hereford has been sentenced to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for five years following sexual assaults on a girl and a woman. Sanjoy Galal, 46, of Green Street in Hereford, pled guilty and was sentenced at Hereford Magistratesโ Court yesterday (Tuesday 26 August). On 1 April this year Galal sexually assaulted a girl in High Town. Minutes later he then followed a woman into McDonalds on Commercial Street and sexually assaulted her. He was further handed a community order and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of ยฃ114, pay compensation of ยฃ300, a fine of ยฃ100, rehab activity work and was also ordered to register as a sex offender for five years. DC Sophie Weaver, who led the investigation, said: โWe take reports of sexual assault and sexual offences extremely seriously and we will continue to seek justice for those who have suffered such abhorrent crimes. โI would like to commend the victims for their bravery and courage in what has been an extremely difficult time for them and their families. โBehaviour such as that shown by Galal will simply not be tolerated in our communities and those who think it is acceptable to commit such crimes will be brought to justiceโ.
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Today, Peter Isaac was given Honorary Freedom of the City. For his dedication to Hereford United Football Club as a player and later Caretaker Manager, and for his continued support for the club, Peter Isaac was conferred Freedom of the City of Hereford, the most honourable distinction that is within the power of the City Council to bestow. Peter Isaac, born William Henry Isaac in 1935, has a long and storied career. He served with thirteen managers; Joe Wade, Ray Daniel, Bob Dennison, John Charles, Colin Addison, John Sillett, Tony Ford, Mike Bailey, Frank Lord, Tommy Hughes, John Newman, Ian Bowyer and Greg Downs. He completed over 30 seasons at Edgar Street, and clocked up an impressive total of 353 appearances. Now 90 years of age, Peter continues to support the club he served. The conferring of the title โHonorary Freemanโ is the highest that the Council of a City can bestow. Hereford City Council may admit โpersons of distinction and persons who have in the opinion of the Council, rendered eminent services to the Cityโ, as Honorary Freemen. For more on Peter, visit: https://www.talkingbull.org/hereford-hero-25-peter-isaac/
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Herefordshire Councilโs long โyear of deliveryโ begins as work starts on a new multi-million pound transport hub in Hereford to improve transport connections and travel choice in and around the city and wider region. A delegation including representatives from the Council, Network Rail, Transport for Wales and contractor McPhillips gathered on Thursday (22 August) to mark the official start of construction on Herefordโs new Transport Hub. The hub will integrate key travel connections, making it easier to move around and connect by train, bus, car, bike, taxi or on foot. This forms part of a wider Local Transport Plan shaped by public input, with strong support for better bus services, active travel options and the Bypass. Enhancing the front of Herefordโs historic railway station, the development will support multiple modes of getting around and create an exciting urban space that ties together local heritage, public and private transport and active travel. The hub will feature: โช๏ธNew bus stands and layovers โช๏ธTaxi and car parking areas (including commuter and short-term parking) โช๏ธCovered cycle storage and lockers โช๏ธIndoor welfare facilities for passengers Cllr Philip Price, Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, said: โThe Transport Hub has been planned for a very long time; it is a big project and will bring lots of benefits to all users, whether they are on foot, cycling, driving or on public transport. Once completed, the hub will not only offer accessible, safe and better transport connections, it will help open up better access to Herefordโs cultural, retail and family-friendly offerings, and is expected to play a key role in supporting the countyโs economic growth. โThis initiative is one of many being delivered by Herefordshire Council and our partners over the next 18 months, which together will be a significant step-forward in transforming infrastructure, public services and economic opportunities for both urban and rural areas across the county.โ Andrew Dunham, Contracts Director for McPhillips, said: โThis ยฃ10 million investment represents far more than just a construction project โ it's a genuine investment in the future of Hereford and its community. The new hub will transform how people move around the city, providing modern bus facilities, improved parking, covered cycle storage, and indoor welfare facilities that will encourage a shift towards more sustainable transport options. โWhat makes this project particularly special for us is our commitment to supporting local supply chains throughout the delivery. Our approach ensures that the economic benefits of this investment flow directly into the local community โ from local suppliers to local skilled workers.โ The Transport Hub is part of the โImproving Transport in Herefordโ programme of works. It is supported by a ยฃ20.5 million investment from the UK Governmentโs Levelling Up Fund, aimed at delivering a package of transport and travel measures in and around Hereford city.
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A decision by Herefordshire Council to acquire and refurbish the John Haider building in central Hereford will offer 28 additional self-contained apartments for people needing emergency accommodation. The number of people presenting to the council as needing emergency accommodation has almost doubled in the past two years, and there is currently a shortage of suitable accommodation. This means that people may be housed in private sector dwellings (where available) or in budget hotel/bed-and-breakfast style accommodation. To help address this, the council is investing nearly ยฃ3.8Million to acquire and fully refurbish the John Haider building in central Hereford, bringing the building back into good condition to provide 28 high quality, self-contained, apartments. The decision follows Full Council approval of the outline business case in July 2024 and a detailed consultation process. Councillor Graham Biggs, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth at Herefordshire Council, commented: This is one of the first projects we have brought forward, working through our new cross-political working group and aiming to address the long-term social and affordable housing crisis we face across the county. The project will provide quality accommodation to some of those that need it most, while also regenerating an ageing building at a key gateway location to the city centre. In purchasing the John Haider building not only will we be able to provide good quality, safe accommodation for people who are in need of emergency accommodation, but we are projecting cost savings in excess of ยฃ600,000 each year. Refurbishment of the premises is expected to commence autumn 2025 with the first occupants expected to move in from autumn 2026.
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Emergency crews from Hereford Fire Station were dispatched to an incident on West Street, Hereford, shortly before 3:00pm this afternoon. A silver Volkswagen car had collided with The Stables pub, prompting a swift response from fire and rescue services. A spokesperson for West Mercia Police "We were called to reports of a car being in collision with The Stables pub on West Street at around 2.50pm today (Tuesday) - No arrests were made."
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Man Arrest on Suspicion of Causing GBH in Hereford
Hereford Voice replied to Hereford Voice's topic in Open Forum
UPDATE Monday 18th August: Man Charged Following Hereford Assault Thomas Burroughs, 29, of Foxwhelp Close in Hereford has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The charge is in relation to an incident on Commercial Street in Hereford on Sunday 17 August 2025. He has been remanded to appear at Kidderminster Magistratesโ Court today (18 August 2025). -
A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) following a fight involving two men in Hereford last night (Saturday 16 August). Police received multiple calls from members of the public reporting an assault in progress in the Commercial Street area of Hereford city centre around 11.30pm. Upon arrival, it was established that an isolated violent assault had taken place with the victim โ a man in his 40s - being punched and falling to the ground, hitting his head. No other persons and no weapons were involved. The victim sustained a serious head injury and was taken to hospital. The suspect fled the scene but was quickly tracked down thanks to the help of public witnesses and an off-duty police officer. A man was then detained by response officers. A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of assault GBH and remains in police custody helping with enquiries. A scene guard has been lifted this morning, and we would like to thank members of the public for their patience while our investigations continue at the location. Detective Inspector Colin Berry said: โA man has been arrested on suspicion of assault GBH following a violent attack in Hereford city centre last night. โWe would like to thank members of the public for their help in identifying a suspect in what was an isolated incident between two men which posed no wider risk to the public. โWe would also like to reassure people that there were no weapons involved despite some commentary on social media saying there were. โA suspect was identified and promptly arrested and is helping us with our enquiries.โ
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Wednesday night, three striking St George flags were placed on the railings outside Hereford Cathedral, briefly adding a patriotic touch to the city centre. However, the flags were removed earlier this morning by the Cathedralโs Head of Estates. We spoke directly with Alan Read, Head of Estates at Hereford Cathedral and a veteran himself, to understand why the flags were taken down. Alan clarified that the Cathedral is not opposed to flying the St George flagโin fact, it is regularly flown from the Cathedralโs main flagpole and was proudly on display again today. He explained that there is a formal procedure for placing any items on Cathedral property. Unauthorised attachments, particularly those using metal rings, can damage the ironwork and its protective paint. Additionally, the railings are private property, and proper permissions are required for any public displays. In light of this, Hereford Voice has now formally applied to display six flags on the railings in the coming months to coincide with a future event. 3 x St George Flags ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ฅ๓ ฎ๓ ง๓ ฟ 3 x Union Flags ๐ฌ๐ง We are also pleased to announce that Hereford Voice will be making a donation to Hereford Cathedral in support of its ongoing work and maintenance.
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Emergency services responded late last night (August 14) after a vehicle collided with a residential property on Whitefriars Road in Belmont. The incident occurred at approximately 11:44pm, when a car struck a house, causing significant structural damage. A spokesperson from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated the property prior to their arrival. Crews worked to secure the vehicle and established a safety cordon around the affected area. One male casualty was assessed and transferred to the care of the ambulance service. West Mercia Police also attended the scene. Update - A 51-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and dangerous driving. He remains in police custody as investigations continue. Police confirmed there were no injuries to the occupants of the property. Officers remain at the scene this morning to conduct further inquiries. ๐ท S. Burnett
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Planning permission has officially been granted for the redevelopment of Hampton Dene Primary School, Church Road, Hereford. The decision marks a significant milestone in the delivery of modern, inclusive, and sustainable education facilities for the local community. The approved plans include two new classrooms to enhance the learning environment, improve accessibility and will enable the school to offer additional spaces in the Language and Communication Centre for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The development will also feature an improved parking area and upgraded outdoor spaces. Construction is expected to begin in the autumn and be completed by early summer 2026. The project is part of a wider investment in education across the county, aimed at ensuring every child has access to high-quality learning spaces. Further updates will be shared with parents, carers, and the wider community as the project progresses. Councillor Ivan Powell, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, added: โWeโre delighted that planning permission has been granted, which means the improvement works can now go ahead. This project is part of the councilโs commitment to delivering high-quality inclusive education facilities that meets the needs of our children and young people.โ Councillor Harry Bramer, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Assets, said: โThis is a major step forward for education in Hereford. The improvement works at Hampton Dene Primary School will provide a safe, inspiring environment for students to thrive.โ
