HERE are the stories making headlines in our part of the world, North Worcestershire and the Black Country. 

Dedicated doctors, nurses and staff working at Redditch’s Alexandra Hospital have been applauded for their hard work at a glittering awards ceremony.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust recently held its annual awards ceremony at the Chateau Impney hotel in Droitwich.

The full story can be read by clicking here.

A Kidderminster man has appeared in court charged with the rape of a woman.

Grant Roach is also charged with making threats to kill, sexual assault on a female, assault on a female aged 13 and over by penetration, and assault by causing actual bodily harm.

The story is here.

Stourbridge MP Margot James has said she is not going to fight the closure of the town's police station.

West Midlands Police announced this afternoon that it is considering moving out of 28 buildings across the region over the next two years – including stations at Stourbridge and Kingswinford.

Stourbridge News' story is here.

Meanwhile Black Country students met celebrities as well as enjoying heavy discounts at major retailers and live entertainment at this year’s Merry Hill Student Night.

Made in Chelsea’s Stephanie Pratt and 2014 X-Factor contestant Jake Quickenden put in appearances at the intu shopping centre.

The full story is here.