thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Hampshire police appeal after Basingstoke mum attacked

A MOTHER has spoken of the terrifying moment two men entered her home and hit her over the head with a crowbar while her children were in the next room .
Mamta Mathur was at home in Cromwell Road , South View , Basingstoke with her husband and three children at 8.30pm on Friday , August 28 when the two men attacked her , leaving her bleeding and unconscious .
The family - who believe they were targeted because they are Asian , with the intruders mistakenly thinking they had gold , have criticised the police for not doing enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital after men enter home and attack her with weapons Mamta , 44 , said she looked up to see a man standing in front of her , wearing all black and carrying an iron rod and spray can .
“ In that millisecond I had so many thoughts , ” she said .
“ I thought what if he ’ s here to harm me or my teenage daughters or my husband.
” The mother-of-three said her “ motherly instincts ” kicked in and she knew she needed to protect her family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was holding in the intruder ’ s face and screamed , which shocked him into taking a step back .
“ I saw my family in danger , my kids were in danger , ” she explained , adding : “ He started walking backwards and I started walking towards him .
First , I saw him as a human being but then he became a dark image .
We got to the door of my bedroom and he stumbled .
It was his last chance to do something and at that point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my head.
” She said the only words the man spoke were “ oi , get here ” .
Mamta then noticed a second man in the hallway .
She described both as wearing black trousers and black hoodies , with one having a French cut style beard .
Both were white British and aged in their early 20s .
“ For a split second my eyes went away from him and I saw there was another man at the door holding a crowbar .
As I was falling down , he hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my arm came in front of my stomach.
” The impact broke Mamta ’ s elbow into four pieces and she fell to the floor unconscious and bleeding .
Her daughters called the police , while Mamta ’ s husband Dr Rajiv walked towards the men screaming , and they left the house empty handed .
Rajiv , 44 , said : “ I stepped outside and started screaming help .
One came back towards me with a knife , so I stepped back in and locked the door behind me and pushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident has left the family terrified , with Mamta having nightmares every time she tries to sleep .
The mum , who runs two IT businesses , spent two days in hospital receiving treatment for her injuries , including 22 stitches in her head and her arm in a cast .
As part of an appeal , police say a third man was waiting outside in a vehicle during the attack .
The men are believed to have got into a nearby white car before leaving the area .
A spokesperson said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very distressing and traumatic experience for the family .
However , this is an ongoing investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment at this stage .
Police enquiries are still very much underway , and we will continue to liaise with the victim as to any update.
” Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 and quote 44200331960 .

Mamta Mathur was at home in Cromwell Road, South View, Basingstoke with her husband and three children at 8.30pm on Friday, August 28 when the two men attacked her, leaving her bleeding and unconscious.
The family - who believe they were targeted because they are Asian, with the intruders mistakenly thinking they had gold, have criticised the police for not doing enough about this problem.
Mamta Mathur
Mamta, 44, said she looked up to see a man standing in front of her, wearing all black and carrying an iron rod and spray can.
“In that millisecond I had so many thoughts,” she said. “I thought what if he’s here to harm me or my teenage daughters or my husband.”
The mother-of-three said her “motherly instincts” kicked in and she knew she needed to protect her family, so she threw some papers she was holding in the intruder’s face and screamed, which shocked him into taking a step back.
“I saw my family in danger, my kids were in danger,” she explained, adding: “He started walking backwards and I started walking towards him. First, I saw him as a human being but then he became a dark image. We got to the door of my bedroom and he stumbled. It was his last chance to do something and at that point he hit me with his rod on my head.”
She said the only words the man spoke were “oi, get here”.
Mamta then noticed a second man in the hallway. She described both as wearing black trousers and black hoodies, with one having a French cut style beard. Both were white British and aged in their early 20s.
“For a split second my eyes went away from him and I saw there was another man at the door holding a crowbar. As I was falling down, he hit my stomach. I was lucky that my arm came in front of my stomach.”
The impact broke Mamta’s elbow into four pieces and she fell to the floor unconscious and bleeding.
Her daughters called the police, while Mamta’s husband Dr Rajiv walked towards the men screaming, and they left the house empty handed.
Rajiv, 44, said: “I stepped outside and started screaming help. One came back towards me with a knife, so I stepped back in and locked the door behind me and pushed on it with my hands.”
The incident has left the family terrified, with Mamta having nightmares every time she tries to sleep.
The mum, who runs two IT businesses, spent two days in hospital receiving treatment for her injuries, including 22 stitches in her head and her arm in a cast.
As part of an appeal, police say a third man was waiting outside in a vehicle during the attack. The men are believed to have got into a nearby white car before leaving the area.
A spokesperson said: “We appreciate and understand this was a very distressing and traumatic experience for the family. However, this is an ongoing investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment at this stage. Police enquiries are still very much underway, and we will continue to liaise with the victim as to any update.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 and quote 44200331960.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--More than 800 nursing jobs across Hampshire unfilled

THERE are more than 800 empty nursing , midwifery and health visitor vacancies across Hampshire ’ s hospitals , the Daily Echo can reveal .
NHS England figures show that there are 842 vacancies across five hospitals in the county , in what has been described as a “ worrying ” figure .
Hospital bosses have said that they plan on “ capitalising ” on future recruitment campaigns , but add there has been a “ significant interest ” in positions within the NHS following the focus on the service during the coronavirus pandemic .
NHS England figures show there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visitor vacancies at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust ( UHS ) at the end of March , the latest period for which data is available .
Brenda Carter , interim assistant director of people at UHS , said : “ Delivering safe and effective patient care is our absolute priority at UHS .
“ Our recruitment drives both nationally and internationally , focus on getting the right staff for the positions we have available and who are able to embody our organisational “ We recognise the challenge we have in recruitment and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a range of routes including apprenticeships alongside developing partnerships with training providers both locally and nationally .
“ Like other health care providers , UHS has had to manage organisational challenges to ensure our staff are protected and supported through the Covid-19 pandemic .
However , the focus on the NHS during this time has resulting in significantly more interest in positions within the health profession and this will be something we are looking to capitalise on in future recruitment campaigns.
” The figures also revealed there were 223 nursing , midwifery and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foundation Trust and 159 nursing , midwifery and health visitor vacancies at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust at the end of At at Solent NHS Trust , there were 60 nursing , midwifery and health visitor vacancies and 142 nursing , midwifery and health visitor vacancies at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust at the end of March .
Southampton Test MP , Alan Whitehead , said : “ It is worrying that we have hundreds of nursing , midwifery and health visitor vacancies , especially as we go into what promises to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This has been a growing issue for a number of years and it is one that the government has not got a grip of .
Although nursing bursaries were reinstated for those starting this year , the previous removal of them made a big impact on the amount of new nurses coming onto the job .
“ We also face a lot of uncertainty around whether nurses from the EU will still come and work in the same number as they did before Brexit .
“ The government needs to do more to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursing unions have welcomed the move , they say it does not go far enough and are calling for better pay , and for tuition fees for all nursing students to be scrapped .
They were among 4,725 unfilled roles across the South East .
The Government said its £172 million package will enable healthcare employers to take up to 2,000 apprentices every year – double the current number – for the next four years , which it says will help deliver 50,000 more nurses by 2024-25 .
Employers will get £8,300 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ existing apprenticeships , which generally take four years and offer an alternative to university courses .
Mike Adams , the Royal College of Nursing ’ s director for England , said the investment was a “ welcome step ” .
“ It does , however , fall short of the wider investment needed to educate enough registered nurses for the future , ensuring health and care services have the staff needed , ” he added .
“ The full-time three-year nursing degree remains the best way to increase domestic nursing supply at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abolish self-funded tuition fees for all nursing students as well as introducing universal living maintenance grants that reflect actual student need if it is truly committed to delivering the 50,000 more nurses they Unison ’ s deputy head of health Helga Pile said a fair and consistent wage for nurses was also “ essential ” .
She added : “ Unless this is sorted urgently , the NHS will struggle to attract apprentices in the first place .
”

NHS England figures show that there are 842 vacancies across five hospitals in the county, in what has been described as a “worrying” figure.
Hospital bosses have said that they plan on “capitalising” on future recruitment campaigns, but add there has been a “significant interest” in positions within the NHS following the focus on the service during the coronavirus pandemic.
NHS England figures show there were 258 nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) at the end of March, the latest period for which data is available.
Brenda Carter, interim assistant director of people at UHS, said: “Delivering safe and effective patient care is our absolute priority at UHS.
“Our recruitment drives both nationally and internationally, focus on getting the right staff for the positions we have available and who are able to embody our organisational
values.
“We recognise the challenge we have in recruitment and that is why we attract staff through a range of routes including apprenticeships alongside developing partnerships with training providers both locally and nationally.
“Like other health care providers, UHS has had to manage organisational challenges to ensure our staff are protected and supported through the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the focus on the NHS during this time has resulting in significantly more interest in positions within the health profession and this will be something we are looking to capitalise on in future recruitment campaigns.”
The figures also revealed there were 223 nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and 159 nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust at the end of
March.
At at Solent NHS Trust, there were 60 nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies and 142 nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust at the end of March.
Southampton Test MP, Alan Whitehead, said: “It is worrying that we have hundreds of nursing, midwifery and health visitor vacancies, especially as we go into what promises to be a difficult winter for our NHS.
“This has been a growing issue for a number of years and it is one that the government has not got a grip of. Although nursing bursaries were reinstated for those starting this year, the previous removal of them made a big impact on the amount of new nurses coming onto the job.
“We also face a lot of uncertainty around whether nurses from the EU will still come and work in the same number as they did before Brexit.
“The government needs to do more to help UHS fill these vacancies.”
While nursing unions have welcomed the move, they say it does not go far enough and are calling for better pay, and for tuition fees for all nursing students to be scrapped.
They were among 4,725 unfilled roles across the South East.
The Government said its £172 million package will enable healthcare employers to take up to 2,000 apprentices every year – double the current number – for the next four years, which it says will help deliver 50,000 more nurses by 2024-25.
Employers will get £8,300 per placement per year for both new and existing apprenticeships, which generally take four years and offer an alternative to university courses.
Mike Adams, the Royal College of Nursing’s director for England, said the investment was a “welcome step”.
“It does, however, fall short of the wider investment needed to educate enough registered nurses for the future, ensuring health and care services have the staff needed,” he added.
“The full-time three-year nursing degree remains the best way to increase domestic nursing supply at the scale and pace
needed.
“The Government must abolish self-funded tuition fees for all nursing students as well as introducing universal living maintenance grants that reflect actual student need if it is truly committed to delivering the 50,000 more nurses they
promised.”
Unison’s deputy head of health Helga Pile said a fair and consistent wage for nurses was also “essential”.
She added: “Unless this is sorted urgently, the NHS will struggle to attract apprentices in the first place.”


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Gosport man jailed after 128mph fatal crash in 50mph zone

A HAMPSHIRE man has been jailed after he crashed into another car while speeding at nearly 130mph in a 50mph zone , killing the driver just days before Christmas .
Stephen Brown 's Audi reached speeds of approximately 128mph while travelling through roadworks on December 21 , 2018 .
The Gosport man then tried to jump from lane three to one , where he hit a Mini Clubman being driven by 59-year-old Vincent Taylor , Taunton Crown Court heard .
Mr Taylor died in hospital several hours later from his injuries .
The 25-year-old , who was driving on M5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time of the incident , was also found to be more than two times over the drink driving limit .
During an inspect of his car at the scene , police officers found an open bottle of beer in the centre console .
He pleaded guilty to the offence of causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for five years and three months .
In a victim impact statement read to the court , Mr Taylor ’ s partner Zoe Gale said : “ The impact of losing Vini has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us all .
“ When a loved one leaves the house , says goodbye but never returns it ’ s a hard situation to come to terms with .
“ Teamed with the horrific way he was taken from us by a drunk driver speeding and that he died alone is incredibly hard to bear.
” Investigating officer Dai Nicholas said : “ Vincent Taylor ’ s tragic death has had a devastating impact on his family and our thoughts remain with them at this time .
“ Mr Brown showed a flagrant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and an apparent disregard for the great danger being caused to others .
“ I hope this case serves as a stark reminder about the consequences of drink driving and driving in a dangerous manner .
”

Stephen Brown's Audi reached speeds of approximately 128mph while travelling through roadworks on December 21, 2018.
The Gosport man then tried to jump from lane three to one, where he hit a Mini Clubman being driven by 59-year-old Vincent Taylor, Taunton Crown Court heard.
Mr Taylor died in hospital several hours later from his injuries.
The 25-year-old, who was driving on M5 Northbound between junction 26 and 25 at the time of the incident, was also found to be more than two times over the drink driving limit.
During an inspect of his car at the scene, police officers found an open bottle of beer in the centre console.
He pleaded guilty to the offence of causing death by dangerous driving and was jailed for five years and three months.
In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mr Taylor’s partner Zoe Gale said:
“The impact of losing Vini has been and continues to be incredibly traumatic for us all.
“When a loved one leaves the house, says goodbye but never returns it’s a hard situation to come to terms with.
“Teamed with the horrific way he was taken from us by a drunk driver speeding and that he died alone is incredibly hard to bear.”
Investigating officer Dai Nicholas said: “Vincent Taylor’s tragic death has had a devastating impact on his family and our thoughts remain with them at this time.
“Mr Brown showed a flagrant disregard for the rules of the road and an apparent disregard for the great danger being caused to others.
“I hope this case serves as a stark reminder about the consequences of drink driving and driving in a dangerous manner.”


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Man jailed for 12 years after burglary in Romsey

A MAN who broke into a house and threatened two people with a metal pole has been jailed for 12 years .
Antony Agnew of Birch Close , Southampton was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on September 4 following a three day trial .
The court heard that on November 6 , 2018 at around 6.45pm , Agnew and another man forced their way into a house in Riverside Gardens , Romsey , Armed with a metal pole Agnew proceeded to threaten a 24-year-old man and his 57-year-old mother before taking £3,000 in cash and leaving the house , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injuries in the incident .
Detective Constable Chris Orr said : `` This was a concerning incident which has had a significant impact on the victims .
`` Agnew faced trial for this offence back in January this year , but it went to a retrial when the jury could not reach a verdict .
`` It means that not only have the victims had to go through the ordeal of what happened that evening , they have also had to relive their experience twice at trial .
`` They have shown great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Agnew was being monitored electronically at the time of the incident as he was on licence for a previous burglary conviction .
He was identified for the Romsey offence by one of the victims and data from his electronic monitoring tag .
Agnew has been sentenced to 12 years ' imprisonment for the crime and handed an indefinite restraining order not to contact the victims .

Antony Agnew of Birch Close, Southampton was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on September 4 following a three day trial.
The court heard that on November 6, 2018 at around 6.45pm, Agnew and another man forced their way into a house in Riverside Gardens, Romsey, Armed with a metal pole Agnew proceeded to threaten a 24-year-old man and his 57-year-old mother before taking £3,000 in cash and leaving the house, the jury heard.
The man sustained minor injuries in the incident.
Agnew was found guilty of aggravated burglary.
Detective Constable Chris Orr said: "This was a concerning incident which has had a significant impact on the victims.
"Agnew faced trial for this offence back in January this year, but it went to a retrial when the jury could not reach a verdict.
"It means that not only have the victims had to go through the ordeal of what happened that evening, they have also had to relive their experience twice at trial.
"They have shown great courage throughout."
The court heard that Agnew was being monitored electronically at the time of the incident as he was on licence for a previous burglary conviction.
He was identified for the Romsey offence by one of the victims and data from his electronic monitoring tag.
Agnew has been sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment for the crime and handed an indefinite restraining order not to contact the victims.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Man charged after brawl in St Mary's, Southampton

A MAN has been charged with two offences after a brawl broke out in a Southampton street .
At about @ @ @ @ @ 5 , police officers came across a fight in the street in Ascupart Road , @ @ @ @ @ dispersal order was put in place to clear the group following the incident .
Now @ @ @ @ @ of Dale Valley Road , Southampton , has been charged with affray and possession of @ @ @ @ @ public place .
He was due to appear at Southampton Magistrates ' Court yesterday .

At about 7.20pm on Saturday, September 5, police officers came across a fight in the street in Ascupart Road, Southampton.
A section 34 dispersal order was put in place to clear the group following the incident.
Now Waldemar Coelho, 26, of Dale Valley Road, Southampton, has been charged with affray and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
He was due to appear at Southampton Magistrates' Court yesterday.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Crew of HMS Queen Elizabeth in Portsmouth test positive for Covid

Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth has postponed its sailing from Portsmouth Naval Base after a number of crew tested positive for Covid-19 .
The £3 billion warship was set to leave Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Monday afternoon for training exercises but the departure was put on hold at the last moment .
A Ministry of Defence spokesman confirmed that “ fewer than 10 ” members of the 1,000-strong crew had tested positive for the coronavirus and had been taken ashore to be put into isolation in barracks .
Other sailors who had contact with their infected crew-mates will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is expected to leave Portsmouth as soon as Tuesday .
It is the second time the carrier has had to postpone its sailing after two crew members tested positive for Covid-19 in April .
A Royal Navy spokesman said : “ A small number of HMS Queen Elizabeth ’ s personnel have tested positive for Covid during routine preparation for sailing .
“ Those affected have been isolated and are working with the NHS Test and Trace system to ensure the virus does not spread further .
“ The crew will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HMS Queen Elizabeth will depart once their status has been confirmed.
” The spokesman said that the decision when to sail would be left to the carrier ’ s commanding officer Captain Angus Essenhigh who will act on PHE guidance .
The carrier is expected to carry out training exercises at sea before returning to base for supplies ahead of departing for major international exercises including the embarkment for the first time of both US and UK F35 Lightning jets .
It is aiming to declare strike carrier capability later this year ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The £3 billion warship was set to leave Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Monday afternoon for training exercises but the departure was put on hold at the last moment.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman confirmed that “fewer than 10” members of the 1,000-strong crew had tested positive for the coronavirus and had been taken ashore to be put into isolation in barracks.
Other sailors who had contact with their infected crew-mates will isolate on board the 65,000 tonne ship which is expected to leave Portsmouth as soon as Tuesday.
It is the second time the carrier has had to postpone its sailing after two crew members tested positive for Covid-19 in April.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “A small number of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s personnel have tested positive for Covid during routine preparation for sailing.
“Those affected have been isolated and are working with the NHS Test and Trace system to ensure the virus does not spread further.
“The crew will continue to follow appropriate health guidelines and the HMS Queen Elizabeth will depart once their status has been confirmed.”
The spokesman said that the decision when to sail would be left to the carrier’s commanding officer Captain Angus Essenhigh who will act on PHE guidance.
The carrier is expected to carry out training exercises at sea before returning to base for supplies ahead of departing for major international exercises including the embarkment for the first time of both US and UK F35 Lightning jets.
It is aiming to declare strike carrier capability later this year ahead of its first operational deployment in 2021.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Men from Southampton and Eastleigh to appear in court after Christchurch crash

TWO men are due to appear in court accused of dangerous driving following a five-vehicle crash which left a tanker @ @ @ @ @ leg injuries '' and another man seriously injured .
At 2.20pm on Friday May 24 @ @ @ @ @ on Matchams Lane in Christchurch between Raceway and Snowtrax involving a blue Mercedes , a @ @ @ @ @ Toyota Yaris , a Yamaha motorcycle and a tanker carrying human waste .
The driver @ @ @ @ @ 53-year-old man from Poole – was taken to Southampton General Hospital for treatment to serious @ @ @ @ @ potentially life-changing .
The driver of the blue Mercedes – a 35-year-old man from Eastleigh @ @ @ @ @ his spine and leg and was taken to Poole Hospital for treatment .
A 35-year-old @ @ @ @ @ has been issued with a postal requisition for causing serious injury by dangerous driving .
@ @ @ @ @ has been issued with a postal requisition for an offence of dangerous driving .
They @ @ @ @ @ at Poole Magistrates ’ Court on Tuesday 15 September 2020 .

At 2.20pm on Friday May 24 last year a collision occurred on Matchams Lane in Christchurch between Raceway and Snowtrax involving a blue Mercedes, a black Mercedes, a red Toyota Yaris, a Yamaha motorcycle and a tanker carrying human waste.
The driver of the tanker – a 53-year-old man from Poole – was taken to Southampton General Hospital for treatment to serious leg injuries, described as potentially life-changing.
The driver of the blue Mercedes – a 35-year-old man from Eastleigh – sustained serious injuries to his spine and leg and was taken to Poole Hospital for treatment.
A 35-year-old man from Eastleigh in Hampshire has been issued with a postal requisition for causing serious injury by dangerous driving. A 26-year-old man from Southampton has been issued with a postal requisition for an offence of dangerous driving. They are both due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 15 September 2020.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Coronavirus: 18 more Hampshire cases in last 24 hours

TWO more people tested positive for coronavirus in Southampton in the 24 hours leading up to 4pm on September 7 @ @ @ @ @ .
Across Hampshire , 18 people tested positive for the virus .
Data released by @ @ @ @ @ the course of the pandemic , 1,029 people have now tested positive for the virus @ @ @ @ @ a rate of 407.5 cases per 100,000 people .
In Eastleigh , four people tested @ @ @ @ @ to 470 and giving a rate of 351.8 per 100,000 people .
Seven people returned @ @ @ @ @ in the New Forest , taking the total to 524 and giving a rate of @ @ @ @ @ tested positive in Winchester , meaning the number of cases remained at 518 .
In @ @ @ @ @ positive , one in Fareham and none in Gosport .
Data released by NHS England @ @ @ @ @ hospitals across the county on September 6 , however that could be subject to change @

Across Hampshire, 18 people tested positive for the virus.
Data released by the government daily shows throughout the course of the pandemic, 1,029 people have now tested positive for the virus in Southampton.
This gives a rate of 407.5 cases per 100,000 people.
In Eastleigh, four people tested positive, taking the total to 470 and giving a rate of 351.8 per 100,000 people.
Seven people returned positive tests for the virus in the New Forest, taking the total to 524 and giving a rate of 291 per 100,000.
Nobody tested positive in Winchester, meaning the number of cases remained at 518.
In Portsmouth, four people tested positive, one in Fareham and none in Gosport.
Data released by NHS England showed that nobody died in hospitals across the county on September 6, however that could be subject to change.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Winmar Food store opens on Shirley High Street

A NEW international supermarket has officially opened in Southampton , bringing 25 jobs to the area .
Winmar Food store , now housed in the former Morrisons shop on Shirley high street , has set out to be one of the biggest international food shops in the city and is run by owner of Turkish restaurant Ottoman Kitchen , on Southampton high street .
It has over 15,000 food items , a deli counter , fresh Turkish butcher , halal meat and stock from Bulgaria , Romania , Poland , Turkey and Albania .
The opening party on Saturday ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barbecue showcasing meats from the Turkish butcher , a socially-distanced children ’ s balloon artist and a charity raffle for Wessex Cancer Trust charity .
The building has been completely refurbished .
Owner Niyazi Kaya said the business sells fresh fruit and vegetables , international foods that are hard to find , and frozen goods .
There is also talk of a home delivery service launching once the store has developed an online ordering website .
Mr Kaya said he took on full ownership of the unit in March this year after it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
The new shop has created 25 new jobs so far , as well as work for local tradesman during the lockdown .
When asked about competition in the area , with supermarkets Lidl and Sainsburys situated close by , Mr Kaya said the shop ’ s unique selling point is the Turkish butcher and international foods on sale .
He added : “ It ’ s taken us a while to get open longer than expected , we couldn ’ t work for a long time during the lockdown and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so we could get open.
” “ We ’ re unique because we ’ re one of the few international food stores in Southampton offering hard-to-find Turkish , Romanian , Bulgarian and polish products .
“ We have a history as butchers and this is what we ’ re passionate about and happy to finally open the first Turkish butcher in Southampton inside our supermarket .
”

Winmar Food store, now housed in the former Morrisons shop on Shirley high street, has set out to be one of the biggest international food shops in the city and is run by owner of Turkish restaurant Ottoman Kitchen, on Southampton high street.
It has over 15,000 food items, a deli counter, fresh Turkish butcher, halal meat and stock from Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Turkey and Albania.
The opening party on Saturday (September 5) involved a free street barbecue showcasing meats from the Turkish butcher, a socially-distanced children’s balloon artist and a charity raffle for Wessex Cancer Trust charity.
The building has been completely refurbished.
Owner Niyazi Kaya said the business sells fresh fruit and vegetables, international foods that are hard to find, and frozen goods.
There is also talk of a home delivery service launching once the store has developed an online ordering website.
Mr Kaya said he took on full ownership of the unit in March this year after it had been standing empty for over 12 months.
The new shop has created 25 new jobs so far, as well as work for local tradesman during the lockdown.
When asked about competition in the area, with supermarkets Lidl and Sainsburys situated close by, Mr Kaya said the shop’s unique selling point is the Turkish butcher and international foods on sale.
He added: “It’s taken us a while to get open longer than expected, we couldn’t work for a long time during the lockdown and then builders had to work day and night so we could get open.”
“We’re unique because we’re one of the few international food stores in Southampton offering hard-to-find Turkish, Romanian, Bulgarian and polish products.
“We have a history as butchers and this is what we’re passionate about and happy to finally open the first Turkish butcher in Southampton inside our supermarket.”


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--LETTER - Shame on Compass Inn over children ban

The landlord was a child once .
Although it may be easier to ban children , she is running a @ @ @ @ @ do behave , should not be banned from eating out with their well-behaved children .
@ @ @ @ @ a pub , you have to eject them/ban them , but you ca n't deal @ @ @ @ @ control/discipline children ?
If you are unable to manage a pub then you have no @ @ @ @ @ will get her own way with this method .
Who would want to visit such @ @ @ @ @ by those who want an adult only environment ?
From what I understand , the @ @ @ @ @ frighten children old enough to read them , but no action has been taken over @ @ @ @ @ should have a rethink !
!

The landlord was a child once.
Although it may be easier to ban children, she is running a pub.
Families whose children do behave, should not be banned from eating out with their well-behaved children.
If you have drunks in a pub, you have to eject them/ban them, but you can't deal with/ban parents who don't control/discipline children?
If you are unable to manage a pub then you have no place in one.
She will get her own way with this method.
Who would want to visit such a place that is patronised by those who want an adult only environment?
From what I understand, the notices previously displayed, would frighten children old enough to read them, but no action has been taken over this.
Anyone supporting this should have a rethink!!
Aloma Hack
e mail


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Fundraiser for University of Reading law student with cancer to get ONC201 drug

THE family of a 21-year-old student with cancer are asking for help to raise money for a “ life-saving treatment ” that isn ’ t available on the NHS .
Sabreena Majid , from Southampton , was diagnosed with brain tumour diffuse midline glioma on January 28 .
Sabreena , who attended St Anne ’ s Catholic School and sixth form , studied ICT , religious studies and sociology for her A-Levels and went on to study for a law degree at University of Reading .
In December 2019 , Sabreena started to suffer from double vision and loss of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But her family ’ s “ world changed ” when they were told she had a grade four tumour .
She later began to start 13 rounds of radiotherapy .
• Tributes paid to 'bubbly ' teaching assistant who died in hospital after short illness Her condition deteriorated quickly and as a result , she was made exempt from her final year law exams .
Sabreena ’ s family are asking for help to raise £48,000 for a drug called ONC201 .
It is a new drug candidate believed to kill cancer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her sister Nafisa Ilyas saw an article in the Daily Echo on Brooke Leavey , an 11-year-old who died after battling cancer .
They visited Brooke ’ s family , and Sabreena started taking ONC201 - costing £4,000 a month - from April to June .
Nafisa said : “ Sabreena is the youngest of five of us .
She ’ s the most bubbly , happy-go-lucky character .
“ We met Brooke ’ s family , who had raised money for treatment from Germany .
We were preparing for the worst case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this drug ONC201 that they had left.
” During an MRI scan in May , doctors discovered her tumour had reduced slightly , and in another MRI in August .
Nafisa added : “ If we ’ d never met Brooke ’ s family , we would never have known about this drug .
We can ’ t stress enough how grateful we are .
“ Once we realised the drug was very helpful , we wanted to get hold of it .
`` We ’ ve contacted a doctor in Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funds to go there and buy the drug .
”

Sabreena Majid, from Southampton, was diagnosed with brain tumour diffuse midline glioma on January 28.
Sabreena, who attended St Anne’s Catholic School and sixth form, studied ICT, religious studies and sociology for her A-Levels and went on to study for a law degree at University of Reading.
In December 2019, Sabreena started to suffer from double vision and loss of balance, and was rushed to hospital.
But her family’s “world changed” when they were told she had a grade four tumour. She later began to start 13 rounds of radiotherapy.
Her condition deteriorated quickly and as a result, she was made exempt from her final year law exams.
Sabreena’s family are asking for help to raise £48,000 for a drug called ONC201. It is a new drug candidate believed to kill cancer cells.
It comes after Sabreena and her sister Nafisa Ilyas saw an article in the Daily Echo on Brooke Leavey, an 11-year-old who died after battling cancer.
They visited Brooke’s family, and Sabreena started taking ONC201 - costing £4,000 a month - from April to June.
Nafisa said: “Sabreena is the youngest of five of us. She’s the most bubbly, happy-go-lucky character.
“We met Brooke’s family, who had raised money for treatment from Germany. We were preparing for the worst case scenario so they gave us six weeks of this drug ONC201 that they had left.”
During an MRI scan in May, doctors discovered her tumour had reduced slightly, and in another MRI in August.
Nafisa added: “If we’d never met Brooke’s family, we would never have known about this drug. We can’t stress enough how grateful we are.
“Once we realised the drug was very helpful, we wanted to get hold of it.
"We’ve contacted a doctor in Germany and are waiting until we have enough funds to go there and buy the drug.”
To donate, visit https://uk.gf.me/v/c/gfm/help-sabreena-beat-dipg.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Southampton world voyage goes on sale

Southampton world voyage goes on sale

Tickets for a luxurious world voyage sailing from Southampton have gone on sale today .
Queen Mary 2 will be setting sail from Southampton in January 2022 on Cunard ’ s World Voyage .
The ocean liner will be visiting Greece , Dubai , Sri Lanka , Singapore , Vietnam , Hong Kong , Australia and Bali , Abu Dhabi , Oman , Italy and Portugal over a 104 night voyage starting in January and ending in April .
Cunard president , Simon Palethorpe , said : `` Our guests have told us they want memorable destinations which combine intrinsic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programme spans 16 countries , offering a combined 33 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , which we hope will combine the perfect blend of exploration on shore and relaxation on board .
`` This 104 night voyage can be split into six sectors and booked individually , which is tailored to those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Cunard experience for just a portion of the journey .
`` It truly is the ultimate exploration of East meets West experienced from the magnificent setting of the world ’ s only ocean liner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guests on board will be able to take advantage of a multitude of luxurious offerings whether they want to be entertained , learn something new , get active or simply relax , while the ambience throughout the ship is warm , friendly and inclusive . ''
Prices for an inside stateroom for the complete 104 night voyage start from £11,499 per person .

Queen Mary 2 will be setting sail from Southampton in January 2022 on Cunard’s World Voyage.
The ocean liner will be visiting Greece, Dubai, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Australia and Bali, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Italy and Portugal over a 104 night voyage starting in January and ending in April.
Cunard president, Simon Palethorpe, said: "Our guests have told us they want memorable destinations which combine intrinsic glamour and heritage.
"This unique programme spans 16 countries, offering a combined 33 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which we hope will combine the perfect blend of exploration on shore and relaxation on board.
"This 104 night voyage can be split into six sectors and booked individually, which is tailored to those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Cunard experience for just a portion of the journey.
"It truly is the ultimate exploration of East meets West experienced from the magnificent setting of the world’s only ocean liner, the Queen Mary 2.
"Guests on board will be able to take advantage of a multitude of luxurious offerings whether they want to be entertained, learn something new, get active or simply relax, while the ambience throughout the ship is warm, friendly and inclusive."
Prices for an inside stateroom for the complete 104 night voyage start from £11,499 per person.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--When will a coronavirus vaccine be ready in the UK?

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has revealed when a coronavirus vaccine is likely to be ready for use across the UK .
The comments were made as Mr Hancock suggested that mass testing could see people given a 24-hour Covid-free “ pass ” to enable them to get back into theatres and sporting events where they may need to be in close contact .
What has Matt Hancock said ?
Speaking on LBC radio on Monday ( September 7 ) , Mr Hancock said younger people could still have serious illness and could pass on disease to more vulnerable people – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the number of cases we have seen in the last few days is concerning , ” he said .
“ It is concerning because we have seen a rise in cases in France , in Spain , in some other countries across Europe – nobody wants to see a second wave here .
“ It just reinforces the point that people must follow the social distancing rules , they are so important .
“ The rise in the number of cases we have seen over the last few days is largely among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between 17 and 21 – and the message to all your younger listeners is that even though you are at lower risk of dying from Covid if you ’ re under 25 , you can still have really serious symptoms and consequences .
“ Long Covid – where people six months on are still ill – is prevalent among younger people .
“ Also , that you can infect other people – this argument that we have seen that some people come out with saying ‘ you don ’ t need to worry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is younger people and they don ’ t die ’ – firstly they can get very , very ill. “ And secondly it inevitably leads to older people catching it from them – don ’ t infect your grandparents.
” He added : “ We will take action if people go to big social events that are completely inappropriate , sadly , in a time of coronavirus.
” Downing Street later reiterated the comments , with the Prime Minister ’ s official spokesman warning : “ Generally a rise in cases among younger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ population as a whole.
” Meanwhile , Mr Hancock said the rise in coronavirus cases was not restricted to poorer areas .
He added : “ Over the summer we had particular problems in some of the areas that are most deprived .
“ Actually , the recent increase we have seen in the last few days is more broadly spread .
“ It ’ s actually among more affluent younger people where we have seen the rise.
” Mr Hancock set out more detail for mass testing plans , which could give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are not infectious for at least 24 hours .
When could the UK get a coronavirus vaccine ?
He also said that should the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine be successful , it could be rolled out by the end of this year in a “ best case scenario ” – but the beginning of next year was “ most likely ” .
What about theatres in the UK ?
When asked about people getting back into theatres to go to pantomimes , Mr Hancock added : “ That is the hope that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can get things going even if there isn ’ t a vaccine , that we can use mass testing so people can check whether they have the virus today , if they don ’ t then ( they can ) go and do things , even if it means being in close confinement .
“ We need to use the next design of tests which don ’ t require you to send the swab off to the lab and get the result back .
“ There ’ s a new technology that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test where you can have the turn around essentially on the spot and so you can imagine being able to go to something like the theatre , or a sports event , or to work , and you have the test , you get the result back and then they can go into the theatre .
“ That is what we ’ re working on , that is the hope , and I also hope that will allow us to have a merry Christmas.
” Asked about mass testing to reduce quarantines for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock said current rapid tests show people are not infectious only “ at that moment ” .
“ For somebody coming in from Heathrow , we need to know also that they ’ re not incubating it , ” he said .
“ Under the mass-testing proposal you ’ d essentially get a pass to say ‘ for the next 24 hours we are confident that you ’ re not infectious ’ .
You might still be incubating it and get ill a week later .
“ The challenge with people coming in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that they ’ re not going to go out and about and infect everybody.
” What about the Covid-19 vaccine candidate ?
When asked about the Covid-19 vaccine candidate by AstraZeneca , Mr Hancock added : “ We have got 30 million doses already contracted with AstraZeneca , in fact they are starting to manufacture those doses already , ahead of approval , so that should approval come through – and it ’ s still not certain but it is looking up – should that approval come through then we are ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scenario is that happens this year .
I think more likely is the early part of next year – in the first few months of next year is the most likely .
“ But we ’ ve also bought vaccine ahead of it getting approved from a whole different series of international vaccines as well.
” When asked whether he had “ lost control ” of the coronavirus pandemic , Mr Hancock said : “ No , but the whole country needs to following social distancing .
“ We can only do this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a role to play.
” But he admitted that there have been “ operational issues ” over testing when probed about people being asked to travel long distances for tests .
Mr Hancock pledged that no one would be asked to travel for more than 75 miles to get a test , even though this could be a “ quite a hike ” for some .

The comments were made as Mr Hancock suggested that mass testing could see people given a 24-hour Covid-free “pass” to enable them to get back into theatres and sporting events where they may need to be in close contact.
What has Matt Hancock said?
Speaking on LBC radio on Monday (September 7), Mr Hancock said younger people could still have serious illness and could pass on disease to more vulnerable people – including their grandparents.
“The rise in the number of cases we have seen in the last few days is concerning,” he said.
“It is concerning because we have seen a rise in cases in France, in Spain, in some other countries across Europe – nobody wants to see a second wave here.
“It just reinforces the point that people must follow the social distancing rules, they are so important.
“The rise in the number of cases we have seen over the last few days is largely among younger people – under 25s, especially between 17 and 21 – and the message to all your younger listeners is that even though you are at lower risk of dying from Covid if you’re under 25, you can still have really serious symptoms and consequences.
“Long Covid – where people six months on are still ill – is prevalent among younger people.
“Also, that you can infect other people – this argument that we have seen that some people come out with saying ‘you don’t need to worry about a rise in cases because it is younger people and they don’t die’ – firstly they can get very, very ill.
“And secondly it inevitably leads to older people catching it from them – don’t infect your grandparents.”
He added: “We will take action if people go to big social events that are completely inappropriate, sadly, in a time of coronavirus.”
Downing Street later reiterated the comments, with the Prime Minister’s official spokesman warning: “Generally a rise in cases among younger people leads to a rise across the population as a whole.”
Meanwhile, Mr Hancock said the rise in coronavirus cases was not restricted to poorer areas.
He added: “Over the summer we had particular problems in some of the areas that are most deprived.
“Actually, the recent increase we have seen in the last few days is more broadly spread.
“It’s actually among more affluent younger people where we have seen the rise.”
Mr Hancock set out more detail for mass testing plans, which could give someone a “pass” to know they are not infectious for at least 24 hours.
When could the UK get a coronavirus vaccine?
He also said that should the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine be successful, it could be rolled out by the end of this year in a “best case scenario” – but the beginning of next year was “most likely”.
What about theatres in the UK?
When asked about people getting back into theatres to go to pantomimes, Mr Hancock added: “That is the hope that we hold out for the nation, that we can get things going even if there isn’t a vaccine, that we can use mass testing so people can check whether they have the virus today, if they don’t then (they can) go and do things, even if it means being in close confinement.
“We need to use the next design of tests which don’t require you to send the swab off to the lab and get the result back.
“There’s a new technology that we’re backing to get a test where you can have the turn around essentially on the spot and so you can imagine being able to go to something like the theatre, or a sports event, or to work, and you have the test, you get the result back and then they can go into the theatre.
“That is what we’re working on, that is the hope, and I also hope that will allow us to have a merry Christmas.”
Asked about mass testing to reduce quarantines for travellers arriving in the UK, Mr Hancock said current rapid tests show people are not infectious only “at that moment”.
“For somebody coming in from Heathrow, we need to know also that they’re not incubating it,” he said.
“Under the mass-testing proposal you’d essentially get a pass to say ‘for the next 24 hours we are confident that you’re not infectious’. You might still be incubating it and get ill a week later.
“The challenge with people coming in from abroad is that we need to know that they’re not going to go out and about and infect everybody.”
What about the Covid-19 vaccine candidate?
When asked about the Covid-19 vaccine candidate by AstraZeneca, Mr Hancock added: “We have got 30 million doses already contracted with AstraZeneca, in fact they are starting to manufacture those doses already, ahead of approval, so that should approval come through – and it’s still not certain but it is looking up – should that approval come through then we are ready to roll out.
“The best-case scenario is that happens this year. I think more likely is the early part of next year – in the first few months of next year is the most likely.
“But we’ve also bought vaccine ahead of it getting approved from a whole different series of international vaccines as well.”
When asked whether he had “lost control” of the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Hancock said: “No, but the whole country needs to following social distancing.
“We can only do this as a whole society – everybody has a role to play.”
But he admitted that there have been “operational issues” over testing when probed about people being asked to travel long distances for tests.
Mr Hancock pledged that no one would be asked to travel for more than 75 miles to get a test, even though this could be a “quite a hike” for some.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Three-car crash on A31 at Ringwood blocks A338 slip road

THERE were delays on the A31 this morning following a three-car crash in Ringwood .
Emergency services were called to @ @ @ @ @ the collision on the eastbound carriageway shortly after 8.30am .
The crash led to two @ @ @ @ @ for the A338 to be blocked .
Police were on the scene dealing with the @ @ @ @ @ reported .
A Hampshire Constabulary spokeswoman said : `` We were called just before 8.40am @ @ @ @ @ reports of a three vehicle collision on the A31 eastbound carriageway at Ringwood .
`` @ @ @ @ @ 500 , and a Kia Picanto were in collision causing two lanes to be blocked @ @ @ @ @ the A338 .
Minor injuries have been reported . ''
The road was cleared by @ @ @ @ @ no arrests have been made .

Emergency services were called to the scene following reports of the collision on the eastbound carriageway shortly after 8.30am.
The incident involved a Honda Jazz, a Fiat 500 and a Kia Picanto.
The crash led to two lanes of the off slip for the A338 to be blocked.
Police were on the scene dealing with the collision and minor injuries were reported.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokeswoman said: "We were called just before 8.40am, 8 September, to reports of a three vehicle collision on the A31 eastbound carriageway at Ringwood.
"A Honda Jazz, Fiat 500, and a Kia Picanto were in collision causing two lanes to be blocked on the off slip for the A338. Minor injuries have been reported."
The road was cleared by around 10.30am. Police confirmed no arrests have been made.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Southampton taxi drivers Civic Centre protest magnetic stickers

SOUTHAMPTON taxi drivers took to council doors , demanding for regulations to be relaxed so they can work for more than one company .
At least 30 of them went to the Civic Centre on Monday morning protesting to be given flexibility in their jobs .
They want Southampton City Council to allow them to use magnetic door signs on their cars in a bid to enable drivers to work for more than one firm and reduce the risks of taxis being vandalised .
The city council said magnetic door signs , which show the name of the taxi company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bid to protect the public .
However protest organiser Ali Haydor , the Southampton private hire trade representative , has hit back saying the council 's policy does n't cover out-of-town taxi cars .
He said : `` This has been going on for a long time and they keep on saying they want to protect the public .
We ’ re saying that ’ s fair enough .
But what public are we talking about , are we talking about city citizens ?
`` If that ’ s the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
Out-of-town cars licensed by other councils are using our lanes to pick up the same public in Southampton they are trying to protect . ''
`` We understand council policy , we just want to have a bit of leniency as we have got to follow all of these rules . ''
Ali added that his drivers have to follow the council 's rules while other taxi drivers are getting licenses from elsewhere .
Mr Haydor , who organised the protest with newly-elected representative Jamilur Rahman , also claimed that more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vandalised .
He said : `` We want to be able to take the signs off to give us privacy .
Not all of these drivers from out-of-town have to have stickers .
We want the flexibility . ''
Southampton City Councillor Dave Shields , cabinet member for stronger communities , said : “ The primary role of licensing is public safety and therefore we do not allow magnetic door signs .
Magnetic signs can easily be stolen and placed on an unlicensed vehicles , giving the appearance of a licensed vehicle that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We require the vehicle to display the current operator to assist those using the taxi to identify the vehicle they have booked .
`` There is no evidence that supports the argument that the removal of either of these safety requirements will increase the volume of work available to the trade as a whole .
`` The number of customers will remain the same .
We are not aware of any increase in the number of vehicles being damaged and to our knowledge incidents of vandalism to licensed vehicles remain low .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with safety and were the first authority to mandate the fitting of taxi cameras and as a leading authority in this area , we will always recommend that the public chose a Southampton licensed vehicle .
”

At least 30 of them went to the Civic Centre on Monday morning protesting to be given flexibility in their jobs.
They want Southampton City Council to allow them to use magnetic door signs on their cars in a bid to enable drivers to work for more than one firm and reduce the risks of taxis being vandalised.
The city council said magnetic door signs, which show the name of the taxi company and licensing authority, are not allowed in a bid to protect the public.
However protest organiser Ali Haydor, the Southampton private hire trade representative, has hit back saying the council's policy doesn't cover out-of-town taxi cars.
He said: "This has been going on for a long time and they keep on saying they want to protect the public. We’re saying that’s fair enough. But what public are we talking about, are we talking about city citizens?
"If that’s the case, you’re not dealing with them. Out-of-town cars licensed by other councils are using our lanes to pick up the same public in Southampton they are trying to protect."
"We understand council policy, we just want to have a bit of leniency as we have got to follow all of these rules."
Ali added that his drivers have to follow the council's rules while other taxi drivers are getting licenses from elsewhere.
Mr Haydor, who organised the protest with newly-elected representative Jamilur Rahman, also claimed that more taxis with a permanent sign are being vandalised.
He said: "We want to be able to take the signs off to give us privacy. Not all of these drivers from out-of-town have to have stickers. We want the flexibility."
Southampton City Councillor Dave Shields, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “The primary role of licensing is public safety and therefore we do not allow magnetic door signs. Magnetic signs can easily be stolen and placed on an unlicensed vehicles, giving the appearance of a licensed vehicle that could be used for unlawful purposes.
"We require the vehicle to display the current operator to assist those using the taxi to identify the vehicle they have booked.
"There is no evidence that supports the argument that the removal of either of these safety requirements will increase the volume of work available to the trade as a whole.
"The number of customers will remain the same. We are not aware of any increase in the number of vehicles being damaged and to our knowledge incidents of vandalism to licensed vehicles remain low.
"We are proud of our record with safety and were the first authority to mandate the fitting of taxi cameras and as a leading authority in this area, we will always recommend that the public chose a Southampton licensed vehicle.”


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Co-op ask customers where they should open new stores

Bosses at convenience store chain the Co-op have asked shoppers to suggest where they should open new branches across the country .
It comes as the retail giant announced last week that dozens of new stores nationwide will be opening their doors in the run up to Christmas - with about three new shops opening each week .
How many stores are the Co-op opening between September and Christmas 2020 ?
The convenience retailer will launch over 65 stores new and extended stores , with more than 100 further outlets receiving major makeovers as part of a £130M store investment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The latest announcement is in addition to the more than 1,000 permanent roles that came from temporary jobs created to keep communities fed during lockdown .
How can members of the public suggest where the Co-op should open a new store ?
Members of the public can let the Co-op know of sites where they would like to see a new Co-op serving their community at : https : //www.coop.co.uk/suggest-a-site .
Where will the Co-op open new stores and improve existing ones ?
Here is the full list of locations that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September and Christmas 2020 : What have bosses at the Co-op said ?
David Roberts , managing director , Co-op Property , said : “ Co-op works to operate at the heart of local life , making a difference in its communities .
`` Multiple factors motivate consumers , with ease , choice and added services chief among them .
`` We continually look for new locations , sites which are definitively convenient in their community – closer to our Members and customers with proximity shopping a key consumer consideration .
`` Co-operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and through our partnership approach we are enriching our offer to make convenience truly compelling in our communities.
” How to apply for a new job at the Co-op

It comes as the retail giant announced last week that dozens of new stores nationwide will be opening their doors in the run up to Christmas - with about three new shops opening each week.
How many stores are the Co-op opening between September and Christmas 2020?
The convenience retailer will launch over 65 stores new and extended stores, with more than 100 further outlets receiving major makeovers as part of a £130M store investment programme creating up to 1,000 local jobs.
The latest announcement is in addition to the more than 1,000 permanent roles that came from temporary jobs created to keep communities fed during lockdown.
How can members of the public suggest where the Co-op should open a new store?
Members of the public can let the Co-op know of sites where they would like to see a new Co-op serving their community at: https://www.coop.co.uk/suggest-a-site.
Where will the Co-op open new stores and improve existing ones?
Here is the full list of locations that the Co-op will open across the UK between September and Christmas 2020:
Islington, Holloway Road, Gainsborough Studios and Caledonian Road
Exeter, Belgrave Road – The Depot and, Pennsylvania Road
Roehampton, Danebury Avenue
Guildford, Connaught House
Hereford, Grandstand Road
Bath, Wellsway
Reading, London Road
Crieff, Town Green
Borrowash, Victoria Road
Kirkcaldy, Lauder Road
Perth, Darnhall Drive
Coppull, Spendmore Lane
Sandiacre, Market Place
Newcastle upon Tyne, Great North Road
Skelmanthorpe, Commercial Road
Grappenhall, Knutsford Road
Wakefield, Lupset petrol filling station and store
Aston, Sheffield, petrol filling station and store
Guisborough, petrol filling station and store
Cheshunt, Church Lane
Cottenham, High Street
Shenfield, Hutton Road
Bolton-Le-Sands, Bye Pass Road
Kennington, Walworth Road
Ebbsfleet, Castle Hill
Penyffordd, Hawarden Road
Swansea, Walter Road
Barnet, Millbrook Park
Beckenham, Albermarle Road
Dover, Crabble Hill
Invergordon, High Street
Leeds, Merrion Way
Coventry, Fairfax Street
Haddenham, Pegasus Way
Leeds, Burley Street
Birmingham, University Locks
Hove, Kingsway
Maidstone, Loose Road
Reading, Thames Valley Park (Microsoft)
Barrow-in-Furness, Abbey Road
Gatley, Gatley Road
Greenford, Greenford Green
Hastings, Parkstone Parade
Telford, Stafford Street
Cannock, Longford Road
Preston, Garstang Road
Crewe, Remer Street
Oughtibridge, Langsett Road
Royal Albert Wharf, Gallions Quarter
Templecombe, High Street
Edinburgh, Stockbridge
Ferniegair, Carlisle Road
Great Lumley, Front Street
Norbury, London Road
Oakley, Oakley Lane
Redditch, Evesham Road
Rosudgeon, Main Road
Wrexham, Lord Street
What have bosses at the Co-op said?
David Roberts, managing director, Co-op Property, said: “Co-op works to operate at the heart of local life, making a difference in its communities.
"Multiple factors motivate consumers, with ease, choice and added services chief among them.
"We continually look for new locations, sites which are definitively convenient in their community – closer to our Members and customers with proximity shopping a key consumer consideration.
"Co-operation is a fundamental part of our DNA, and through our partnership approach we are enriching our offer to make convenience truly compelling in our communities.”
How to apply for a new job at the Co-op
To search for roles, visit https://jobs.coop.co.uk/.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Hampshire Constabulary ask businesses to register for N.I.C.E Investigation system

RESIDENTS are being encouraged to upload footage in a bid to help the police fight crime .
CCTV can be uploaded through a new system to help officers gather the evidence needed to catch criminals faster .
Hampshire Police are now calling on businesses and residents to register their cameras onto a secure system called N.I.C.E Investigate .
Once firms are registered , it allows officers to request the footage to be uploaded to them , rather than their previous method of trying to upload CCTV onto a physical disc .
The system aims to make local communities become safer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public .
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said : `` Hampshire Constabulary has recognised the existence of the 21st century , apparently we are in it now .
With such a momentous occasion , we have decided to bring our CCTV collation into the new century .
`` Rather than relying on floppy disks or new-fangled ‘ compact discs ’ or ‘ universal serial bus stick ’ , we are asking you to upload footage to our secure cloud .
With this in mind we are asking for businesses in the area to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an idea of what cameras we have and where in case we need to ask for any footage . ''
Residents can also upload any CCTV footage if they have a private system or 'Ring ' doorbell installed .
The police spokesperson added : `` As we are using the information for the detection and prevention of crime , we are allowed to collate and store the information .
The information is kept secure , never made public and only other police forces will have access to the camera locations . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ emailing NICEDEMSSUPPORT @ hampshire.pnn.police.uk and informing the team you would like to register your business and cameras .
Hampshire Constabulary will then contact participants with a link to register .

CCTV can be uploaded through a new system to help officers gather the evidence needed to catch criminals faster.
Hampshire Police are now calling on businesses and residents to register their cameras onto a secure system called N.I.C.E Investigate.
Once firms are registered, it allows officers to request the footage to be uploaded to them, rather than their previous method of trying to upload CCTV onto a physical disc.
The system aims to make local communities become safer places for businesses and members of the public.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "Hampshire Constabulary has recognised the existence of the 21st century, apparently we are in it now. With such a momentous occasion, we have decided to bring our CCTV collation into the new century.
"Rather than relying on floppy disks or new-fangled ‘compact discs’ or ‘universal serial bus stick’, we are asking you to upload footage to our secure cloud. With this in mind we are asking for businesses in the area to register their cameras so that we can have an idea of what cameras we have and where in case we need to ask for any footage."
Residents can also upload any CCTV footage if they have a private system or 'Ring' doorbell installed.
The police spokesperson added: "As we are using the information for the detection and prevention of crime, we are allowed to collate and store the information. The information is kept secure, never made public and only other police forces will have access to the camera locations."
Footage can be uploaded for free by emailing NICEDEMSSUPPORT@hampshire.pnn.police.uk and informing the team you would like to register your business and cameras.
Hampshire Constabulary will then contact participants with a link to register.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Volunteers ‘overjoyed’ by ski slope work

A GROUP of volunteers have got together to prepare a city ski slope for reopening .
The ski slope at Alpine Snowsports Southampton was in need of some hard work before the weekend after months of not being used due to the pandemic meant that it was overgrown and damaged .
The Southampton Area Ski Association ( SASA ) uses the ski slope for its club and it got a group of volunteers together in order to prepare the slope for use once again .
Mike Barnes , a member of the association and a parent of one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it out on Facebook just asking the club members for help , and they responded .
“ I think we had over 30 people turn up on Saturday throughout the day .
“ We managed to do all of the jobs that the staff simply would not have time to do .
“ We went in there and we strimmed and hedge cut and weeded and cleaned up and got rid of all of the rubbish.
” The team of volunteers was made up of mostly parents and young members of the ski @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday morning , at about 4pm to get the ski slope back to normal .
Mike added : “ There was a lovely sense of the community there , it was really nice .
“ You don ’ t often get chance to say thank you .
“ The staff spend there spend their lives , teaching our children , whether it ’ s raining or snowing or freezing cold , they never complain , they ’ re always smiling and they do their job brilliantly .
so the idea that we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life a little bit easier is just a lovely thing .
“ We achieved everything that we had set out to and the place looks as good as I ’ ve seen it in many many Karen Platt , the venue manager said : “ For us we are overjoyed and really grateful that the slope looks nice .
“ It would have been very difficult for just our team if we hadn ’ t of had that help .
The slope is now all ready for the reopening on Saturday September 12 @

The ski slope at Alpine Snowsports Southampton was in need of some hard work before the weekend after months of not being used due to the pandemic meant that it was overgrown and damaged.
The Southampton Area Ski Association (SASA) uses the ski slope for its club and it got a group of volunteers together in order to prepare the slope for use once again.
Mike Barnes, a member of the association and a parent of one of the club members said: “We put it out on Facebook just asking the club members for help, and they responded.
“I think we had over 30 people turn up on Saturday throughout the day.
“We managed to do all of the jobs that the staff simply would not have time to do.
“We went in there and we strimmed and hedge cut and weeded and cleaned up and got rid of all of the rubbish.”
The team of volunteers was made up of mostly parents and young members of the ski club and were working from about 9am Saturday morning, at about 4pm to get the ski slope back to normal.
Mike added: “There was a lovely sense of the community there, it was really nice.
“You don’t often get chance to say thank you.
“The staff spend there spend their lives, teaching our children, whether it’s raining or snowing or freezing cold, they never complain, they’re always smiling and they do their job brilliantly. so the idea that we can give back to them and make their life a little bit easier is just a lovely thing.
“We achieved everything that we had set out to and the place looks as good as I’ve seen it in many many
years.”
Alpine Snowsports is run by a charity called Active Nation.
Karen Platt, the venue manager said: “For us we are overjoyed and really grateful that the slope looks nice.
“It would have been very difficult for just our team if we hadn’t of had that help.
The slope is now all ready for the reopening on Saturday September 12.
CONTACT ME
p: 07701 314275
e: timothy.edgley@dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Barbara the vintage horse trailer is home to a new mobile gin bar

HOUSED in a vintage horse trailer called Barbara , Tin & Tonic is a brand new mobile gin , Prosecco and artisan cider bar .
A long held dream of Jo Hudson from Sarisbury Green , the business has only become a reality since lockdown .
`` We are a newly established business that has come about due to being made redundant from the corporate HR world back in June , '' Jo told the Daily Echo. ''
It has always been my dream to do something for myself , so combined with my love for gin , and my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seemed the ideal solution .
The idea had been at the back of my mind for some time but the time just never felt right , but like many others having experienced the last couple of months in lockdown , then furlough and then redundancy my outlook on life has changed , and if I didn ’ t do it now then I never would have done it .
`` It ’ s definitely proving to be an exciting journey , and we are so looking forward to getting out and about and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events .
You name the event and we ’ ll be there .
Let the fun be-gin !
1982 vintage horse trailer Barbara , or Barbs for short , is available for hire at weddings , festivals , corporate dos , garden parties , anniversaries and any other manner of shindig .
She has been beautifully restored with a contemporary twist .
She has a grey exterior and warm midnight blue and copper interior which offers something unique and quirky that will guarantee that elusive wow factor .
She also loves dressing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wedding , a Christmas lights switch-on or a flower power festival , she will be dressed for the occasion .
Barbs and her team of helpers serve a range of locally sourced gins paired with premium mixers and garnishes which complement the specific botanicals within each different blend .
In addition to gin , they also serve Prosecco , artisan cider - produced on Jo 's cousin 's farm in Somerset , beer and premium soft drinks .
However , a bespoke menu with drinks suited to specific requirements can be served at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Tonic love supporting other small local businesses , so Mermaid Gin from the Isle of Wight and Gorilla Spirits from Upton Grey are always on the menu .
Their Gin and Elderflower Cocktail with Prosecco is a particular favourite .
Married Mum-of-two Jo is supported in the family business by chief security officer Monty the Labrador !

A long held dream of Jo Hudson from Sarisbury Green, the business has only become a reality since lockdown.
"We are a newly established business that has come about due to being made redundant from the corporate HR world back in June," Jo told the Daily Echo.
" It has always been my dream to do something for myself, so combined with my love for gin, and my passion for working with people, this seemed the ideal solution. The idea had been at the back of my mind for some time but the time just never felt right, but like many others having experienced the last couple of months in lockdown, then furlough and then redundancy my outlook on life has changed, and if I didn’t do it now then I never would have done it.
"It’s definitely proving to be an exciting journey, and we are so looking forward to getting out and about and being a part of people's special events. You name the event and we’ll be there. Let the fun be-gin!
1982 vintage horse trailer Barbara, or Barbs for short, is available for hire at weddings, festivals, corporate dos, garden parties, anniversaries and any other manner of shindig.
She has been beautifully restored with a contemporary twist. She has a grey exterior and warm midnight blue and copper interior which offers something unique and quirky that will guarantee that elusive wow factor. She also loves dressing up. Whether it's for a summer wedding, a Christmas lights switch-on or a flower power festival, she will be dressed for the occasion.
Barbs and her team of helpers serve a range of locally sourced gins paired with premium mixers and garnishes which complement the specific botanicals within each different blend. In addition to gin, they also serve Prosecco, artisan cider - produced on Jo's cousin's farm in Somerset, beer and premium soft drinks. However, a bespoke menu with drinks suited to specific requirements can be served at any Tin & Tonic event.
Tin & Tonic love supporting other small local businesses, so Mermaid Gin from the Isle of Wight and Gorilla Spirits from Upton Grey are always on the menu.
Their Gin and Elderflower Cocktail with Prosecco is a particular favourite.
Married Mum-of-two Jo is supported in the family business by chief security officer Monty the Labrador!


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--When can I book my driving test again? DVSA issue new update

The DVSA have revealed when learner drivers will be able top book a driving test after the service ran out of appointments within hours on Monday September 7 .
The service has been plagued by problems since the DVSA opened it up to the general public again in late August .
After crashing under the weight of enquiries , it was taken offline for maintenance .
Since being reinstated , it has been inundated by hundreds of thousands of users trying to secure a date for their practical driving test .
After running out of appointments twice last week the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spaces on Monday , September 7 , all of which were snapped up by early afternoon .
Learner drivers are now being told they will have to wait another week before they can try to make an appointment .
To book a practical driving test go to the DVSA online system .
You will need your driving licence number , a credit or debit card to pay the £62 fee , and your driving instructor ’ s personal reference number if you want to check they ’ re available .
You also must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which will be checked automatically .
However , currently the system is offline as all available appointments have been booked .
After tens of thousands of test appointments were snapped up in a few hours last week , the DVSA made another 30,000 available on Monday , September 7 .
However , by midday there were more than 150,000 people queuing for the final 4,000 slots and by 2pm the system was shut down again .
When it restarts , learners should expect similarly long waits to secure a slot , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can I book a driving test again ?
At the moment , the DVSA has only been releasing appointments up to six weeks in advance .
However , from next week it is releasing 375,000 more test slots that will cover the period from October to the end of January 2021 .
The next set of appointments will be made available via the online system from 8am on Monday , September 14 .
Appointments will be available for learners in England , Scotland and Wales , with Scottish test centres due to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after those in Wales and two months after England ’ s .
How to check availability at your local test centre To help learners find an appointment when the system goes live again , the DVSA has launched a tracking service .
Here you can check availability at your local test centre as well as any others nearby .
The service will be updated every 30 minutes as appointments are claimed .
What to do if your theory test is about to expire One of the knock-on effects of lockdown has been for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to expire or has already expired .
Theory test passes remain valid for two years but , unfortunately , if yours has expired or is due to expire before you can book a practical test , you will have to resit it .
The DVSA has said that learners will not be granted any extension on their theory test and without a valid theory test certificate you will not be able to book your practical test .
The booking system for the theory test remains open and new appointments cost £23 .

The service has been plagued by problems since the DVSA opened it up to the general public again in late August.
After crashing under the weight of enquiries, it was taken offline for maintenance. Since being reinstated, it has been inundated by hundreds of thousands of users trying to secure a date for their practical driving test.
After running out of appointments twice last week the DVSA released a further 30,000 driving test spaces on Monday, September 7, all of which were snapped up by early afternoon.
Learner drivers are now being told they will have to wait another week before they can try to make an appointment.
How can I book a driving test?
To book a practical driving test go to the DVSA online system.
You will need your driving licence number, a credit or debit card to pay the £62 fee, and your driving instructor’s personal reference number if you want to check they’re available. You also must have a valid theory test pass certificate, which will be checked automatically.
However, currently the system is offline as all available appointments have been booked.
After tens of thousands of test appointments were snapped up in a few hours last week, the DVSA made another 30,000 available on Monday, September 7. However, by midday there were more than 150,000 people queuing for the final 4,000 slots and by 2pm the system was shut down again.
When it restarts, learners should expect similarly long waits to secure a slot, although additional spaces should be available.
When can I book a driving test again?
At the moment, the DVSA has only been releasing appointments up to six weeks in advance.
However, from next week it is releasing 375,000 more test slots that will cover the period from October to the end of January 2021.
The next set of appointments will be made available via the online system from 8am on Monday, September 14.
Appointments will be available for learners in England, Scotland and Wales, with Scottish test centres due to reopen on September 14, more three weeks after those in Wales and two months after England’s.
How to check availability at your local test centre
To help learners find an appointment when the system goes live again, the DVSA has launched a tracking service. Here you can check availability at your local test centre as well as any others nearby. The service will be updated every 30 minutes as appointments are claimed.
What to do if your theory test is about to expire
One of the knock-on effects of lockdown has been for drivers whose theory test pass certificate is due to expire or has already expired.
Theory test passes remain valid for two years but, unfortunately, if yours has expired or is due to expire before you can book a practical test, you will have to resit it.
The DVSA has said that learners will not be granted any extension on their theory test and without a valid theory test certificate you will not be able to book your practical test.
The booking system for the theory test remains open and new appointments cost £23.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Tesco explain why shopping bills are being rounded up to the nearest pound

Tesco have explained why their shopping bills are being rounded up to the nearest pound .
It comes after the supermarket giant was met with complaints from a number of shoppers that the company was charging them more for the items they bought without their permission .
Are Tesco rounding up their bills - if so , why ?
Yes , in fact Tesco are doing this , but the company have explained that the extra pennies spent are for good causes .
It was reported by Mirror Money that a charity scheme introduced by Tesco at the start of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bills to the nearest pound without consulting the shoppers .
The scheme was introduced to help three charities - Cancer Research UK , Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation - who had lost income as a result of the pandemic , and allowed customers to round up to the nearest pound when paying .
However , some shoppers have claimed that Tesco have rounded-up the bills without their permission .
It was reported that Tesco customer Jodie Holtom and her partner Jamie were charged two different prices for the same thing at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in spite of their shopping taking place just ten minutes apart .
When they checked their receipts , Mirror Money reported that they found that one bill had been rounded up to the nearest pound .
Jodie said : `` Jamie was meant to spend £7.20 , but ended up paying £8 .
`` I know 80p is n't a lot but times are hard at moment .
He realised when we got home that he was charged more and said he was never asked about whether he wanted to contribute . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ she would like to round up her bill , and posted about the fiasco on Twitter .
What have Tesco said ?
Tesco followed up by apologising for the inconvenience , tweeting in reply : “ Hi Jodie , thanks for getting in touch .
I 'm sorry my colleague did n't ask for your husband 's consent , before rounding up the transaction at the till .
“ I 'll share your feedback with the Store Management team and I apologise for any inconvenience this has caused .
`` If you could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visited and the the time of your visit .
“ If you ’ re able to return to store with your receipt , one of my colleagues can refund you there .
TY . ''
A spokesman from Tesco added : `` To support our health charity partners at this critical time , we are encouraging our customers to round up the cost of their shopping to the nearest £1 .
`` Customers will be asked if they would like to donate by one of our checkout colleagues when they pay for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a self-service till .
`` We also have signs in our stores letting customers know about the campaign and how they can support it .
“ The response to the campaign so far has been overwhelmingly positive with very few customers feeding back that they were not aware that they had made a donation . ''

It comes after the supermarket giant was met with complaints from a number of shoppers that the company was charging them more for the items they bought without their permission.
Are Tesco rounding up their bills - if so, why?
Yes, in fact Tesco are doing this, but the company have explained that the extra pennies spent are for good causes.
It was reported by Mirror Money that a charity scheme introduced by Tesco at the start of the coronavirus pandemic automatically rounded up shopping bills to the nearest pound without consulting the shoppers.
The scheme was introduced to help three charities - Cancer Research UK, Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation - who had lost income as a result of the pandemic, and allowed customers to round up to the nearest pound when paying.
However, some shoppers have claimed that Tesco have rounded-up the bills without their permission.
It was reported that Tesco customer Jodie Holtom and her partner Jamie were charged two different prices for the same thing at the supermarket pharmacy in Cheltenham recrntly, in spite of their shopping taking place just ten minutes apart.
When they checked their receipts, Mirror Money reported that they found that one bill had been rounded up to the nearest pound.
Jodie said: "Jamie was meant to spend £7.20, but ended up paying £8.
"I know 80p isn't a lot but times are hard at moment. He realised when we got home that he was charged more and said he was never asked about whether he wanted to contribute."
At no point was Jodie asked if she would like to round up her bill, and posted about the fiasco on Twitter.
What have Tesco said?
Tesco followed up by apologising for the inconvenience, tweeting in reply:
“Hi Jodie, thanks for getting in touch. I'm sorry my colleague didn't ask for your husband's consent, before rounding up the transaction at the till.
“I'll share your feedback with the Store Management team and I apologise for any inconvenience this has caused.
"If you could please DM me with which pharmacy you visited and the the time of your visit.
“If you’re able to return to store with your receipt, one of my colleagues can refund you there. TY."
A spokesman from Tesco added: "To support our health charity partners at this critical time, we are encouraging our customers to round up the cost of their shopping to the nearest £1.
"Customers will be asked if they would like to donate by one of our checkout colleagues when they pay for their shopping or on-screen if they are using a self-service till.
"We also have signs in our stores letting customers know about the campaign and how they can support it.
“The response to the campaign so far has been overwhelmingly positive with very few customers feeding back that they were not aware that they had made a donation."


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--3.3-magnitude earthquake felt in parts of southern England

A 3.3-magnitude earthquake was felt in parts of southern England this morning , with witnesses describing houses shaking as if there had been “ an explosion ” .
The British Geological Survey ( BGS ) said it is investigating reports of an earthquake in Bedfordshire - and it could 've been felt in parts of Hampshire .
Initial data on the BGS site suggested the quake was felt in the region of Leighton Buzzard at around 8.45am and was magnitude 3.3 at a depth of 10km .
Local police said they were taking a “ large ” number of calls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Witnesses told the PA news agency they felt “ strong ” shaking during the tremor .
Usha Chapman from Luton said : “ I was on a video call with my mum when I felt a sideways push .
The door rattled and the TV fixed to the wall also rattled .
Bedfordshire Police said no injuries had been reported .
The force said in a tweet : “ Our control room are currently experiencing a large number of calls due to an earthquake which was felt across the county .
We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or major structural damage.
” One person in Aylesbury wrote online that their house shook “ as if it was hit by a vehicle ” .
Another from Dacorum in Hertfordshire said : “ Short quick quiet boom like an explosion .
”

The British Geological Survey (BGS) said it is investigating reports of an earthquake in Bedfordshire - and it could've been felt in parts of Hampshire.
Initial data on the BGS site suggested the quake was felt in the region of Leighton Buzzard at around 8.45am and was magnitude 3.3 at a depth of 10km.
Local police said they were taking a “large” number of calls from concerned members of the public.
Witnesses told the PA news agency they felt “strong” shaking during the tremor.
Usha Chapman from Luton said: “I was on a video call with my mum when I felt a sideways push. The door rattled and the TV fixed to the wall also rattled.
“It lasted for five seconds.”
Bedfordshire Police said no injuries had been reported.
The force said in a tweet: “Our control room are currently experiencing a large number of calls due to an earthquake which was felt across the county. We have currently received no reports of any injuries or major structural damage.”
One person in Aylesbury wrote online that their house shook “as if it was hit by a vehicle”.
Another from Dacorum in Hertfordshire said: “Short quick quiet boom like an explosion.”


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Hampshire-born artist has work featured in London exhibition

A ROMSEY-born artist will have his work showcased at an outdoor exhibition for more than two months in a bid to celebrate key workers amid coronavirus .
Benjamin Senior , who grew up in Romsey and attended Barton Peveril Sixth Form College in Eastleigh , is one of the few artists to have his artwork displayed at the Everyday Heroes exhibition outside of the Southbank Centre , London .
Now , the former Mountbatten school student has revealed the inspiration behind his painting , which will be displayed as part of the Everyday Heroes exhibition until November 7 , after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 38 , said : `` I was asked by Ralph Rugoff , who is the Hayward Gallery director , because I had worked with the gallery as part of their touring exhibition last year , called Slow Painting , so that is how he came across my work .
`` The exhibition celebrates key workers during the lockdown period and , since I have been painting market scenes for a while , it seemed natural to do a piece of my local market - [ Surrey Street Market , Croydon ] .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite a while and it has been a big inspiration for my paintings for a couple of years now , so this was the perfect excuse to just go right ahead and do it .
`` The jobs that keep us fed became a focal point in our lives during lockdown , because it meant going down to the high streets and hunting for things like flour , so shopping became this completely different activity for us . ''
He added : `` The painting took me two weeks to do and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebratory and positive at a time when it is so easy to respond with anxiety .
`` The original painting is only 40cm by 30cm , but it has been blown up five metres high and is on the front of the Royal Festival Hall facing the Thames . ''
When asked what other projects the artist has in the pipeline , Benjamin said he will be doing a group exhibition at the Carl Freedman Gallery in Margate , Kent , from November 8 .
As reported , Benjamin had the honour of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Rio 2016 .
He was selected by Team GB as one of eight official artists who represented the UK and had his work made into official Team GB posters .

Benjamin Senior, who grew up in Romsey and attended Barton Peveril Sixth Form College in Eastleigh, is one of the few artists to have his artwork displayed at the Everyday Heroes exhibition outside of the Southbank Centre, London.
Now, the former Mountbatten school student has revealed the inspiration behind his painting, which will be displayed as part of the Everyday Heroes exhibition until November 7, after it kicked off yesterday.
Benjamin, 38, said: "I was asked by Ralph Rugoff, who is the Hayward Gallery director, because I had worked with the gallery as part of their touring exhibition last year, called Slow Painting, so that is how he came across my work.
"The exhibition celebrates key workers during the lockdown period and, since I have been painting market scenes for a while, it seemed natural to do a piece of my local market - [Surrey Street Market, Croydon].
"I have been using that market for quite a while and it has been a big inspiration for my paintings for a couple of years now, so this was the perfect excuse to just go right ahead and do it.
"The jobs that keep us fed became a focal point in our lives during lockdown, because it meant going down to the high streets and hunting for things like flour, so shopping became this completely different activity for us."
He added: "The painting took me two weeks to do and it was nice to make something that is celebratory and positive at a time when it is so easy to respond with anxiety.
"The original painting is only 40cm by 30cm, but it has been blown up five metres high and is on the front of the Royal Festival Hall facing the Thames."
When asked what other projects the artist has in the pipeline, Benjamin said he will be doing a group exhibition at the Carl Freedman Gallery in Margate, Kent, from November 8.
As reported, Benjamin had the honour of being chosen as an official Olympic artist for Rio 2016.
He was selected by Team GB as one of eight official artists who represented the UK and had his work made into official Team GB posters.
To see Benjamin's work, follow https://bit.ly/3hDKMNJ.


thedailyecho--2020-09-08--Theatre Royal Winchester Survival Appeal

THEATRE Royal Winchester is edging closer to survival – but still needs £45,000 .
Last month Play to the Crowd , the charity behind the theatre and Hat Fair , launched its emergency appeal .
It has now raised more than £180,000 and fundraisers are working flatout to secure the final donations needed by September 25 .
Deryck Newland , chief executive , said : `` Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our Survival Appeal – we ’ ve been overwhelmed with our community ’ s generosity and messages of support so far .
`` The small team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Trustees , are working flat out to secure the last £45,000 – we are edging that little bit closer to our target each day .
Thank you .
`` We have now also submitted an application to the DCMS Cultural Recovery Fund – the £1.57 billion support package announced by the government .
`` Arts Council England will be administrating this fund and have been given £500 million to distribute for the arts .
If we are successful in our application the funds will help to manage ongoing risks and uncertainties around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve had to take the decision to postpone panto until next year .
`` We are absolutely determined to survive this .
Live performance and creative participation are absolutely vital to so many people ’ s well-being and positive mental health and beyond this crisis as a society we will need these activities more than ever . ''
Donations to Play to the Crowd ’ s Survival Appeal can be made via its Crowdfunder page , via cheque ( made payable to Play to the Crowd ) and sent to Theatre Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or by calling Theatre Royal Winchester ’ s Box Office on 01962 840 440 .
For further information contact Kirstie Mathieson , communications and development director kirstie @ playtothecrowd.co.uk .

Last month Play to the Crowd, the charity behind the theatre and Hat Fair, launched its emergency appeal.
It has now raised more than £180,000 and fundraisers are working flatout to secure the final donations needed by September 25.
Deryck Newland, chief executive, said: "Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our Survival Appeal – we’ve been overwhelmed with our community’s generosity and messages of support so far.
"The small team currently working, together with our Board of Trustees, are working flat out to secure the last £45,000 – we are edging that little bit closer to our target each day. Thank you.
"We have now also submitted an application to the DCMS Cultural Recovery Fund – the £1.57 billion support package announced by the government.
"Arts Council England will be administrating this fund and have been given £500 million to distribute for the arts. If we are successful in our application the funds will help to manage ongoing risks and uncertainties around Covid 19, particularly pertinent as we’ve had to take the decision to postpone panto until next year.
"We are absolutely determined to survive this. Live performance and creative participation are absolutely vital to so many people’s well-being and positive mental health and beyond this crisis as a society we will need these activities more than ever."
Donations to Play to the Crowd’s Survival Appeal can be made via its Crowdfunder page, via cheque (made payable to Play to the Crowd) and sent to Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street, SO23 8SB or by calling Theatre Royal Winchester’s Box Office on 01962 840 440.
For further information contact Kirstie Mathieson, communications and development director kirstie@playtothecrowd.co.uk.