The story so far

The Leader programme provides the opportunity for money to support rural communities' development.
To enable this to happen in Worcestershire the County Council arranged a meeting of groups/organisations likely to be interested in delivering a programme. From that was formed a Worcestershire Local Action Group (LAG). That group is made up of:-

• Robert Barlow, Interim Chair, Agricultural and Rural Chaplain for the Diocese of Worcester
• Chris Brooks, Regeneration Manager Wychavon District Council
• Dave Cropp, Chair of Worcestershire County Association of Local Councils
• Paul Esrich, Manager, Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  
• Joel Killer, Economic Development Officer, Malvern Hills District Council
• Serena Marshall, Worcestershire Young Farmers
• Steve Singleton, Economic Development & Tourism Manager, Wyre
  Forest District Council
• Catherine Smith, Community Liaison Officer, University of Worcester
• Richard Quallington, Chief Executive – Community First

It has been facilitated and supported by Worcestershire Count Council
The group has researched and consulted. On that basis it has been putting together a Development Strategy and Business Plan. The final draft is with LAG members for approval by the end of next week. It will then go to Advantage West Midlands, the Regional Development Agency that delivers the RDPE. After that, all being well, we launch the programme.