Redditch
Redditch is a town in Worcestershire on the River Arrow, 12 miles from Birmingham.
The town was established by the monks of Bordesley Abbey, a Cistercian house built in the 12th century.
It has long been known as a centre for needle making, extended to springs and fish hooks, particularly after needle makers were forced out of London by the Great Plague and the Great Fire.
Forge Mill contains the splendid Needle Museum, evocative of the town`s past.
There is a very fine indoor shopping centre, which incorporates the market.
Redditch is famous for its annual calendar, "The Roundabouts of Redditch".
Close to the town centre is the Arrow Lake Country Park.
The actor Charles Dance was born at Redditch.
The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, is M.P. for Redditch.
Blue Badge Guide Colin Crosby is available to lead Guided Walks around Redditch for groups.