Hereford Voice

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).

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: “Our thoughts are with the family of the woman who has sadly lost her life. “I 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. “You will notice a higher police presence in the area in the coming days as officers investigate this incident”.

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. 𝗥𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗗𝗢𝗡𝗦 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. 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗜𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁!

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 UK’s 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: “Every suicide is a heartbreaking loss, and we all have a part to play in preventing them. I’m honoured to carry the Baton of Hope on behalf of our Trust and the people we support. “This is a moment to stand together, speak openly, and ensure that support is visible and accessible for everyone.” As part of the day’s 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: “I’m 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. “I’m 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.” People are encouraged to visit the Baton of Hope website for more information.

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. Frank’s 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 Foundation’s milestone achievement of £8 million in local grant-making - a testament to his vision, energy, and unwavering commitment to Herefordshire. In Frank’s words: “It 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.” Bridie Sullivan, CEO of HCF, shared: “Frank 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.” 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 2023–2024 and has held numerous board-level roles. Mr Robinson’s deep local roots and strategic insight make him ideally placed to take the helm as HCF enters its next chapter. Robert Robinson commented: “I'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."

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 city’s 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 Venn’s lifelong commitment to helping people rebuild their lives through dignity, opportunity, and community support. John Venn served as vicar of St Peter’s and St Owen’s 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: “Renaming this building is more than symbolic, it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to the values John Venn championed. “His 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.” 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: “We continue John and Emelia Venn’s 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. “We are delighted to hear that the building will be renamed in his honour, a fitting tribute to his legacy.”

Herefordshire Council has approved a £2.055 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: “This investment is about protecting what matters most, our homes, our livelihoods, and our communities. “By prioritising the areas hit hardest, we’re making sure this funding delivers real, lasting benefits for the people of Herefordshire.” 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.

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 – one each from Hereford, Ewyas Harold and Fownhope Fire Station, including Hereford’s water first responders – 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. 📢 Hereford Voice - '𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲' 👏👏👏

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

Herefordshire Council has secured convictions against a man who failed to leave council owned land. On Tuesday 9 September 2025, at Hereford Magistrates’ 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 £1,049 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: “Our message is clear - those who ignore lawful directions, blight our environment with waste, or intimidate public servants will face firm action. I’m 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.”

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 Jamie’s 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 Police’s Major Investigation Unit, said: “We really welcome todays sentencing of Mathew Jonathan. “He 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. “Thankfully, 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. “I would also like to thank my investigation team who worked tirelessly, through some extremely difficult circumstances, to bring about today’s sentencing. “The investigation involved various teams from a number of forces who all worked together to bring Jonathan to justice”. In a statement Jamie’s family said: “We would like to thank the West Mercia Police and prosecution team for their dedication and support in bringing this case to its conclusion. “The 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. “Jamie will be forever in our hearts and remembered as the kind, funny and gentle man that he was.”

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: “I 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. “A 50-year-old man was quickly arrested after we received the report”. “We 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 touch” 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

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 Commissioner’s 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: “Making 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.” It has also been agreed that the hours PCSOs work will change following a recent consultation. ACC Wills said: “PCSOs 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. “We 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.” In March, the force launched its refreshed Local Policing Charter, which is based on three principles – visibility, accessibility and engagement – and sets out the force’s 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: “We are committed to building safer, stronger communities through visible, accessible, and engaging police activity.” 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 ‘find your area’ section.

Earlier this month, 3 St George’s 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 Cathedral’s Head of Estates, Alan Reid, who explained to us that while the Cathedral proudly flies the St George’s 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 Alan’s advice and with full respect to the Cathedral, Hereford Voice submitted a formal application to display 6 flags — 3 Union Flags and 3 St George’s Cross flags — 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: “It 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 George’s Cross, Union Flag or any other flags, in any locations within the Cathedral Close aside from the cathedral tower.” 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 Herefordshire’s 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.

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, Reuben’s mum, Sarah, unveiled an Emergency Bleed Control Kit, which is attached to the wall of the Station Yard shop in Leominster. “My children wanted to help anyone who might be in the same situation as their brother was,” said Sarah. “So, I did a bit of research into it and then happened to be in the St Michael’s Hospice shop in Leominster and began chatting to Bob about it.” Bob Miles is a St Michael’s 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 shop’s 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. “I want to get as many of these kits around as possible,” added Sarah. “If 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.” Reuby’s 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/