Looking back at the year of 2022 - The Worcester Observer
Online Editions

Looking back at the year of 2022

Rob George 31st Dec, 2022   0

2022 has been another year of highs and lows across Worcester and Malvern from floods to extreme heat and the arrival of the Commonwealth Games relay baton and the Knife Angel in the city.

The year of course was dominated by the death of Queen Elizabeth at the age of 96 and the respects paid to the late monarch by residents the Faithful City.

Here’s a selection of our photographer Marcus Mingins’ images from another year of headlines in Worcester and Malvern. 

FEBRUARY once again saw Worcester face the floods as the after effects of Storm Eunice saw the River Severn rise to just below the record of 5.79metres set in the floods of February 2020.




Despite this, the city suffered its worst flooding since the 2020 deluge which set records less than six years after the previous highs in floods of 2014.

A monument to knife crime was the centre of attention throughout the month March as the Knife Angel struck a dominant pose in the heart of Worcester.


Picture by Marcus Mingins 0922010MMR1 copyright Bullivant Media

The imposing 27ft-tall statue has been created from more than 100,000 knives and blades confiscated by 43 UK police forces.

It was designed by Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry, with the aim of bringing the issue of knife crime to the front of society’s consciousness.

Mum Hannah and one–year-old Sophie keep cool. Picture by Marcus Mingins 2922007MMR6 copyright Bullivant Media

July saw the county sizzle in the first of this summer’s hot spells before the arrival of the Commonwealth Games baton relay later in the month which saw community champions carry the baton through the city and even across the River Severn.

Ruan Sarris hands over to Tony Frobisher 2922024MMR9 copyright Bullivant Media

Meanwhile, September saw the collapse of Worcester Warriors into administration and the – hopefully temporary – end to men’s rugby at Sixways.

Picture by Marcus Mingins 3922005MMR1 copyright Bullivant Media

But the news was dominated by the passing of Her Majesty on September 9 and the accession of King Charles III

Books of condolences were opened across the county and floral tributes left as local people paid their respects and gave thanks for a life of service.

Picture by Marcus Mingins 3722004MMR1 copyright Bullivant Media

Wherever 2023 takes us, we look forward to bringing you all the news and sport from across Worcester and Malvern.

Thank you to all our readers and advertisers and a very Happy New Year to you all.