thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Massive rise in firefighters being called to medical incidents in Hampshire

FIREFIGHTERS in Hampshire attended nearly 150 medical emergencies last year – a huge increase since 2010 .
The Fire Brigades Union says the rise in medical responses is typical of the additional pressures being put on firefighters , and that they should not be asked to play the part of doctors or paramedics .
The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 142 non fire-related medical incidents in 2018-19 , according to the latest Home Office statistics .
This was up from just four in 2010-11 , the earliest period for which data is available .
The increase mirrors that across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 19,900 such cases last year – a 77 per cent increase from eight years previously .
The number of call-outs peaked at 45,700 in 2016-17 , a year after emergency medical response trials were introduced that saw fire crews respond to medical emergencies alongside paramedics .
The Fire Brigades Union withdrew from the scheme in 2017 , but fire services are still responding to far more medical incidents than before it began .
Matt Wrack , FBU general secretary , said any increase to firefighters ’ workloads should include a “ significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with appropriate training .
“ Firefighters are there to keep their communities safe from fire and other hazardous emergency incidents , ” he added .
“ While there may be occasions when firefighters are required to attend medical emergencies , they are not doctors , paramedics , nurses , or social carers – and nor should they be .
“ Firefighters are overstretched and under-paid , and services are under-resourced.
” At the time the FBU withdrew from the trial , the National Fire Chiefs Council said it was `` very disappointed '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the Policing and Crime Act 2017 still required emergency services to collaborate , which could account for the increase in incidents .
She added : “ All fire and rescue services have their own risk plans to ensure communities are kept safe , and resources – such as fire appliances and firefighters – are always available to meet their emergencies . ''
There was huge variation in how many medical emergencies fire services responded to across the country last year .
While the Kent Fire and Rescue Service came top of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the services in both Northumberland and Hertfordshire was just two .
A Home Office spokesman said the rise in the number of medical incidents attended by fire crews coincided with the introduction of the emergency medical response trials .
He added : “ The Fire Brigades Union has since instructed their members to withdraw from the trials and as a result , some of this work has now stopped .
”

The Fire Brigades Union says the rise in medical responses is typical of the additional pressures being put on firefighters, and that they should not be asked to play the part of doctors or paramedics.
The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 142 non fire-related medical incidents in 2018-19, according to the latest Home Office statistics.
This was up from just four in 2010-11, the earliest period for which data is available.
The increase mirrors that across England, where fire crews were called to 19,900 such cases last year – a 77 per cent increase from eight years previously.
The number of call-outs peaked at 45,700 in 2016-17, a year after emergency medical response trials were introduced that saw fire crews respond to medical emergencies alongside paramedics.
The Fire Brigades Union withdrew from the scheme in 2017, but fire services are still responding to far more medical incidents than before it began.
Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said any increase to firefighters’ workloads should include a “significant” increase in their pay, along with appropriate training.
“Firefighters are there to keep their communities safe from fire and other hazardous emergency incidents,” he added.
“While there may be occasions when firefighters are required to attend medical emergencies, they are not doctors, paramedics, nurses, or social carers – and nor should they be.
“Firefighters are overstretched and under-paid, and services are under-resourced.”
At the time the FBU withdrew from the trial, the National Fire Chiefs Council said it was "very disappointed" with the decision.
An NFCC spokeswoman said the Policing and Crime Act 2017 still required emergency services to collaborate, which could account for the increase in incidents.
She added: “All fire and rescue services have their own risk plans to ensure communities are kept safe, and resources – such as fire appliances and firefighters – are always available to meet their emergencies."
There was huge variation in how many medical emergencies fire services responded to across the country last year.
While the Kent Fire and Rescue Service came top of the table with 5,600, the figure for the services in both Northumberland and Hertfordshire was just two.
A Home Office spokesman said the rise in the number of medical incidents attended by fire crews coincided with the introduction of the emergency medical response trials.
He added: “The Fire Brigades Union has since instructed their members to withdraw from the trials and as a result, some of this work has now stopped.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--The latest planning applications submitted in the Borough of Eastleigh

AMONG the applications submitted to planners in the Borough of Eastleigh were : 20/87310 - Single-storey rear extension including flue for log burner following demolition of existing garage , front porch , installation of flue and alterations to windows -7 Oakgrove Road , Bishopstoke 20/87285 - Single-storey side and rear extensions ; raise eaves and replace existing roof with dual-pitch roof with flat roof over rear extension ; install solar panels , gas central heating , 12 rooflights and four roof lantern ; increase size of car park plus repairs to existing building , new foul drainage path and tree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Church , Fair Oak Road , Bishopstoke 20/87442 - Erection of a detached two-bedroom dwelling with provision of dropped kerb from Westfield Crescent , and addition of single-storey side extension to 9 Westfield Road following demolition of existing attached store - 9 Westfield Road , Chandler 's Ford 20/87409 - Raising of ridge height to provide first floor living accommodation with two side and a front dormer , roof alterations to front flat roof element , new front porch with canopy and alterations to windows - 63 Park Road , Chandler 's Ford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ floor front extension , roof alterations to single-storey elements on North East and South West elevations , alterations to windows , extension and roof enlargement to detached garage to incorporate storage space above with rooflights and new entrance gates with piers - 217 Winchester Road , Chandler 's Ford 20/87393 - Single-storey rear extension , new side dormer , extension to existing side dormer , replacement garage on reduced footprint - 5 Merrieleas Close , Chandler 's Ford 20/87345 - Addition of new trifold doors and stepped patio to the rear , new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two rooflights to the pitched roof on the flank , a new flue and the repositioning of a satellite dish - 36 Cuckoo Bushes Lane , Chandler 's Ford 20/87341 - First floor side extension and addition of pitched roof on rear flat roof - 40 Oakmount Road , Chandler 's Ford 20/87344 - Single-storey rear extension to detached garage to form study/games room with external changing room & WC - The Kestrels , 8 Chapel Drove , Horton Heath 20/87407 - First floor rear extension with juliet balcony and addition of juliet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Close , Hamble-le-Rice 20/87296 - Alterations to roof to include hip to gable enlargement to front , addition of a side facing dormer window to western elevation , single storey side and front extension following demolition of existing garage and store - 4 Patricia Drive , Hedge End

BISHOPSTOKE
20/87310 - Single-storey rear extension including flue for log burner following demolition of existing garage, front porch, installation of flue and alterations to windows -7 Oakgrove Road, Bishopstoke
20/87285 - Single-storey side and rear extensions; raise eaves and replace existing roof with dual-pitch roof with flat roof over rear extension; install solar panels, gas central heating, 12 rooflights and four roof lantern; increase size of car park plus repairs to existing building, new foul drainage path and tree works - Church Hall, St Pauls Church, Fair Oak Road, Bishopstoke
CHANDLER'S FORD
20/87442 - Erection of a detached two-bedroom dwelling with provision of dropped kerb from Westfield Crescent, and addition of single-storey side extension to 9 Westfield Road following demolition of existing attached store - 9 Westfield Road, Chandler's Ford
20/87409 - Raising of ridge height to provide first floor living accommodation with two side and a front dormer, roof alterations to front flat roof element, new front porch with canopy and alterations to windows - 63 Park Road, Chandler's Ford
20/87376 - Single-storey rear extension and garage conversion - 18 Kelburn Close, Chandler's Ford
20/87402 - Two-storey rear extension, first floor front extension, roof alterations to single-storey elements on North East and South West elevations, alterations to windows, extension and roof enlargement to detached garage to incorporate storage space above with rooflights and new entrance gates with piers - 217 Winchester Road, Chandler's Ford
20/87393 - Single-storey rear extension, new side dormer, extension to existing side dormer, replacement garage on reduced footprint - 5 Merrieleas Close, Chandler's Ford
20/87345 - Addition of new trifold doors and stepped patio to the rear, new glazed Juliet balcony to replace existing, two rooflights to the pitched roof on the flank, a new flue and the repositioning of a satellite dish - 36 Cuckoo Bushes Lane, Chandler's Ford
20/87341 - First floor side extension and addition of pitched roof on rear flat roof - 40 Oakmount Road, Chandler's Ford
20/87294 - Garage Conversion incorporating raising of roof and single-storey front extension - 3 Oakwood Close, Chandler's Ford
20/87251 - Car port - 11 Beech Close, Chandler's Ford
EASTLEIGH
20/87441 - Single-storey front extension - 9 Leander Close, Eastleigh
19/87047 - Proposed single storey extension to ground floor Maisonette flat - 28 Selwyn Gardens, Eastleigh
20/87401 - Single storey rear extension - 4 Romsey Close, Eastleigh
20/87384 - Two-storey side extension, single-storey front extension, part loft conversion and alterations to windows - 15 Kenilworth Drive, Eastleigh
20/87320 - Side extension -75 Twyford Road, Eastleigh
FAIR OAK & HORTON HEATH
20/87338 - Porch to front of property - 18 Eastleigh Road, Fair Oak
20/87344 - Single-storey rear extension to detached garage to form study/games room with external changing room & WC - The Kestrels, 8 Chapel Drove, Horton Heath
HAMBLE-LE-RICE
20/87407 - First floor rear extension with juliet balcony and addition of juliet balcony on side elevation - 9 Kingfisher Close, Hamble-le-Rice
HEDGE END
20/87200 - Single-storey extension, connecting extension from existing double garage to existing house - Totford, 19 Grange Road, Hedge End
20/87395 - Replacement front porch - 12 Ratcliffe Road, Hedge End
20/87357 - Erection of boundary fence - 12 Maidman Place, Hedge End
20/87296 - Alterations to roof to include hip to gable enlargement to front, addition of a side facing dormer window to western elevation,single storey side and front extension following demolition of existing garage and store - 4 Patricia Drive, Hedge End
19/87083 - Single-storey side extension and conversion of existing garage - St Francis, 66 St Johns Road, Hedge End
WEST END
20/87356 - Proposed Garden Building with first floor office space - Winton, Botley Road, West End
20/87337 - Single-storey side extension - Silver Birches, Allington Lane, West End


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--VE Day anniversary 50p coins - where to buy them and how much they're worth

SEVEN new 50p coins have been released to mark 75 years since VE Day and the surrender of Nazi Germany in the Second World War .
Commemorating 75 years since the end of the Second World War in 2020 , seven new 50p coins have been released to commemorate the historic event .
The new Isle of Man coins spell out ‘ victory ’ , in honour of the VE Day anniversary - and they could be worth hundreds of pounds .
The Victory in Europe Day coins have been produced by Westminster Collection , with each of the seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which reflects victory celebrations during VE Day .
For the first time , Winston Churchill features on a 50p coin , having been depicted with his famous ‘ V ’ for ‘ victory ’ stance .
Among the other designs in the collection is an image of residents on the Isle of Man celebrating the end of the war , soldiers shaking hands in front of Trafalgar Square , and the HMS Dido Battleship returning home after battle .
Spitfires are also shown flying over St Paul ’ s Cathedral in London , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a soldier coming home to his family .
The coins are sure to be popular among collectors and could be worth more than £200 .
A rare Snowman 50p coin , which was also launched on the Isle of Man , sold for an impressive £292 on eBay in 2018 , with rare coins rarely selling for less than £200 on the online marketplace .
Where can I get the coins ?
The coins are available to buy online from the Westminster Collection , with prices starting from £6.25 for an individual coin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to buy the whole set , it is available for £43.75 .
The brilliant uncirculated coins are unlimited in quantity , but the silver coin is limited to 5,000 for the individual 50p , and 2,020 for the full set .
A number of special gold proof coins are also available , including the Winston Churchill 50p which is priced at £1,150 .
The coins can not be used in UK shops , as they are only legal tender on the Isle of Man .

Commemorating 75 years since the end of the Second World War in 2020, seven new 50p coins have been released to commemorate the historic event.
The new Isle of Man coins spell out ‘victory’, in honour of the VE Day anniversary - and they could be worth hundreds of pounds.
Victory coins
The Victory in Europe Day coins have been produced by Westminster Collection, with each of the seven coins featuring a design and a letter which reflects victory celebrations during VE Day.
For the first time, Winston Churchill features on a 50p coin, having been depicted with his famous ‘V’ for ‘victory’ stance.
Among the other designs in the collection is an image of residents on the Isle of Man celebrating the end of the war, soldiers shaking hands in front of Trafalgar Square, and the HMS Dido Battleship returning home after battle.
Spitfires are also shown flying over St Paul’s Cathedral in London, along with street party celebrations, and a soldier coming home to his family.
The coins are sure to be popular among collectors and could be worth more than £200.
A rare Snowman 50p coin, which was also launched on the Isle of Man, sold for an impressive £292 on eBay in 2018, with rare coins rarely selling for less than £200 on the online marketplace.
Where can I get the coins?
The coins are available to buy online from the Westminster Collection, with prices starting from £6.25 for an individual coin in brilliant uncirculated quality. If you want to buy the whole set, it is available for £43.75.
The brilliant uncirculated coins are unlimited in quantity, but the silver coin is limited to 5,000 for the individual 50p, and 2,020 for the full set.
A number of special gold proof coins are also available, including the Winston Churchill 50p which is priced at £1,150.
The coins cannot be used in UK shops, as they are only legal tender on the Isle of Man.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--New £35m retirement village Friary Meadow to open in March

A NEW £35 million retirement village is set to open its doors in a public launch event next month .
@ @ @ @ @ in Titchfield , is based on the ‘ extra-care living model , as recommended by @ @ @ @ @ give older people the `` opportunity to retain their independence for longer '' by allowing @ @ @ @ @ .
Anyone is invited to attend the launch on Saturday March 14 , from 10am @ @ @ @ @ allow them to see its 86 homes which took three years to build .
Dr. @ @ @ @ @ Oak Retirement and a former Minister of Health responsible for Social Care , said : @ @ @ @ @ exciting time for us ; after three years of developing this fantastic site , it @ @ @ @ @ we are able to announce the opening date and finally welcome people to Friary Meadow @ @

The Friary Meadow development, in Titchfield, is based on the ‘extra-care living model, as recommended by the Department of Health to give older people the "opportunity to retain their independence for longer" by allowing them to own the properties.
Anyone is invited to attend the launch on Saturday March 14, from 10am to 4pm, which will allow them to see its 86 homes which took three years to build.
Dr. Stephen Ladyman, founder of Oak Retirement and a former Minister of Health responsible for Social Care, said: “This is a very exciting time for us; after three years of developing this fantastic site, it is with great pride that we are able to announce the opening date and finally welcome people to Friary Meadow."


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--PHOTOS: Spring flowers bloom as birds take a rest on tree branches as captured by our Daily Echo Cam

PHOTOS: Spring flowers bloom as birds take a rest on tree branches as captured by our Daily Echo Camera Club members

SPRING flowers such as tulips are blooming in beds of grass while birds peek out from behind tree trunks .
@ @ @ @ @ March begins and hares are making their way across fields in groups .
A squirrel @ @ @ @ @ a tasty snack while keeping its balance on a pole .
Members of our Daily @ @ @ @ @ not fail to capture the beauty of nature in Hampshire .
The talented photographers in @ @ @ @ @ stand still in time the beautiful sunsets , animals - including birds gliding through the @ @ @ @ @ have spotted .
We have placed them into an incredible spread for our readers to @ @ @ @ @ to have a chance at getting your picture in the paper , you can become @ @ @ @ @ yourself by visiting www.facebook.com/groups/decameraclub/ .
We welcome submissions on virtually any topic or theme , @ @ @ @ @ easy and free .

Evenings have become lighter as March begins and hares are making their way across fields in groups.
A squirrel has also been seen enjoying a tasty snack while keeping its balance on a pole.
Members of our Daily Echo Camera Club again do not fail to capture the beauty of nature in Hampshire.
The talented photographers in the group have managed to stand still in time the beautiful sunsets, animals - including birds gliding through the sky - and plants they have spotted.
We have placed them into an incredible spread for our readers to enjoy.
If you want to have a chance at getting your picture in the paper, you can become a member of the club yourself by visiting www.facebook.com/groups/decameraclub/.
We welcome submissions on virtually any topic or theme, and joining the group is easy and free.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Reader letter: It's time for binding arbitration to solve railway strikes

How much longer in a civilised society can we go on with these railway strikes .
They seem designed to @ @ @ @ @ damage and distress to thousands of wholly innocent people , and to damage the national @ @ @ @ @ not be resolved by force and coercion .
You and I do not know the @ @ @ @ @ the problem .
If you and I have a dispute , and we can not @ @ @ @ @ go to the judge , and that is it .
Surely in matters affecting public @ @ @ @ @ required by law to try to negotiate and settle , or otherwise go to compulsory @ @ @ @ @ panel of wholly independent and respected experts hearing all the evidence and giving an impartial @ @ @ @ @ interest .

They seem designed to cause the maximum inconvenience, damage and distress to thousands of wholly innocent people, and to damage the national economy.
The matter should not be resolved by force and coercion.
You and I do not know the real merits and demerits of the problem.
If you and I have a dispute, and we cannot sort it out, we go to the judge, and that is it.
Surely in matters affecting public service the parties should be required by law to try to negotiate and settle, or otherwise go to compulsory binding independent arbitration by a panel of wholly independent and respected experts hearing all the evidence and giving an impartial informed decision in the public interest.
Alec Samuels
West End


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Fareham Borough Council has received a Government grant to tackle rough sleeping.

A HAMPSHIRE Council has been awarded a grant to help tackle rough sleeping .
Fareham Borough Council has been given £141,450 by the Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government , which will be used to support homelessness service Two Saints .
The grant has enabled the charity to employ two full time members of staff to support rough sleepers in the Fareham and Gosport area .
The new posts will focus particularly on helping those leaving prison and with complex needs such as substance misuse issues , mental health needs and behavioural challenges .
Along with this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and maintain suitable accommodation .
Councillor Trevor Cartwright , executive member for Health and Public Protection said : `` This funding is really good news for Fareham and will enable us to build on the good work we have already `` seen , particularly in Fareham Town Centre .
`` It is important to take the time to understand the range of issues that has brought someone to sleep rough so that we can try to provide the most appropriate help for them . ''
The funding comes as Fareham Council has introduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the town which has proven to be a positive move .
The security teams distribute leaflets to rough sleepers which provide information about where they can go to get help .
Anti-social behaviour is decreasing and rough sleepers are engaging more with the services that are on offer .

Fareham Borough Council has been given £141,450 by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, which will be used to support homelessness service Two Saints.
The grant has enabled the charity to employ two full time members of staff to support rough sleepers in the Fareham and Gosport area.
The new posts will focus particularly on helping those leaving prison and with complex needs such as substance misuse issues, mental health needs and behavioural challenges.
Along with this, the workers help rough sleepers to find and maintain suitable accommodation.
Councillor Trevor Cartwright, executive member for Health and Public Protection said: "This funding is really good news for Fareham and will enable us to build on the good work we have already "seen, particularly in Fareham Town Centre.
"It is important to take the time to understand the range of issues that has brought someone to sleep rough so that we can try to provide the most appropriate help for them."
The funding comes as Fareham Council has introduced security guards to tackle anti-social behaviour in the town which has proven to be a positive move.
The security teams distribute leaflets to rough sleepers which provide information about where they can go to get help.
Anti-social behaviour is decreasing and rough sleepers are engaging more with the services that are on offer.


thedailyecho--2020-03-01--Car crashes into house on Victoria Road, Southampton

A CAR crashed into the front of a Southampton family home last night , causing thousands of pounds worth of damage .
Just after 12am last night , a Vauxhall Zafira crashed into the front of a house on Victoria Road in Woolston , cause severe damage to the garage , front steps and the kitchen .
The car , with a man and a woman in it , struck the front of the house leaving a huge dent in the garage door as well as shunting the outside steps into the house causing cracks in the wall .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's kitchen , which in the basement of the home , and all of the cabinets have been damaged .
Plates , glasses and other items were thrown out of the cupboards and shattered on the floor .
The family that own the house , who have asked not to be names , said they were woken just after midnight with an `` almighty crash '' .
They said : `` We were just going to bed and there was this almighty crash .
`` I went down stairs and there was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The force of the crash has emptied the cupboards in the kitchen .
`` The kitchen is only six months old , and I would say I have lost 50 per cent of it . ''
Another relative added : `` I thought someone had thrown something through my window at first so I shot up and grabbed my car keys because I was ready to chase someone down the street .
`` People use the road as a race track due to the poor layout of the road . ''
The cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this time .
The Daily Echo has contacted Hampshire Police for a comment .

Just after 12am last night, a Vauxhall Zafira crashed into the front of a house on Victoria Road in Woolston, cause severe damage to the garage, front steps and the kitchen.
The car, with a man and a woman in it, struck the front of the house leaving a huge dent in the garage door as well as shunting the outside steps into the house causing cracks in the wall.
A hole has been left in the family's kitchen, which in the basement of the home, and all of the cabinets have been damaged.
Plates, glasses and other items were thrown out of the cupboards and shattered on the floor.
The family that own the house, who have asked not to be names, said they were woken just after midnight with an "almighty crash".
They said: "We were just going to bed and there was this almighty crash.
"I went down stairs and there was a car planted in my doorway.
"The force of the crash has emptied the cupboards in the kitchen.
"The kitchen is only six months old, and I would say I have lost 50 per cent of it."
Another relative added: "I thought someone had thrown something through my window at first so I shot up and grabbed my car keys because I was ready to chase someone down the street.
"People use the road as a race track due to the poor layout of the road."
The cost of the damage is still unknown at this time.
The Daily Echo has contacted Hampshire Police for a comment.


thedailyecho--2020-03-01--Is there a new Banksy painting on Mount Pleasant Road in Southampton?

A NEW Banksy-style mural has appeared in Southampton .
The artwork has been created on a wall in Mount Pleasant Road in Southampton , but residents are unsure of when it first appeared .
It shows the figure of a child holding a balloon with the words `` our future '' sprayed across the top .
It features an almost identical figure to one in Bevois Valley that the Daily Echo revealed to be the work of Banksy in November 2010 , and artwork at New Century Bingo in Shirley Road .
The artwork discovered on Shirley Road in 2011 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry insider who said that it was `` unlikely '' to be Banksy .
One resident said : `` I would n't be able to say when it was done , you see so much graffiti here , there and everywhere in these parts of the city . ''
Another added : `` I really hope it is Banksy , I think that would be a nice focus-point for this area . ''
The artwork on Mount Pleasant Road is yet to be confirmed as a Banksy piece .
Banksy is an anonymous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is famous all around the world .

The artwork has been created on a wall in Mount Pleasant Road in Southampton, but residents are unsure of when it first appeared.
It shows the figure of a child holding a balloon with the words "our future" sprayed across the top.
It features an almost identical figure to one in Bevois Valley that the Daily Echo revealed to be the work of Banksy in November 2010, and artwork at New Century Bingo in Shirley Road.
The artwork discovered on Shirley Road in 2011 was surrounded by doubt from an art industry insider who said that it was "unlikely" to be Banksy.
One resident said: "I wouldn't be able to say when it was done, you see so much graffiti here, there and everywhere in these parts of the city."
Another added: "I really hope it is Banksy, I think that would be a nice focus-point for this area."
The artwork on Mount Pleasant Road is yet to be confirmed as a Banksy piece.
Banksy is an anonymous England-based street artists and political activist who is famous all around the world.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Barclays bank on Above Bar Street closed by Greenpeace activists

A SOUTHAMPTON bank has been shut down my activists as part of a national protest against climate change .
The Above Bar Street branch of Barclays in Southampton was rendered out of action by Greenpeace activists who disabled the doors , preventing staff from entering early this morning .
Greenpeace are protesting the bank 's carbon footprint and have taken action at 95 sites in towns and cities across the UK .
At targeted branches , images of Barclays customers bearing slogans such as Stop Funding Fossil Fuels and Stop Funding the Climate Emergency were plastered on branch windows .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ branches of the bank in Belfast , Cardiff , Glasgow , London and Manchester .
The exhibitions displayed photographs of some of the worst climate emergency disasters in the four years since the Paris Climate agreement was signed .
Morten Thaysen , climate finance campaigner at Greenpeace UK said : `` From floods in Southampton to bushfires across the globe and record heat in Antarctica , the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face .
`` We ’ ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Barclays spokesperson said : “ We recognise that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today , and are determined to do all we can to support the transition to a low carbon economy , while also ensuring that global energy needs continue to be met .
`` Greenpeace has a view on these issues to which they are completely entitled , but we would ask that – in expressing that view – they stop short of behaviour which targets our customers , and our colleagues , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country .
”

The Above Bar Street branch of Barclays in Southampton was rendered out of action by Greenpeace activists who disabled the doors, preventing staff from entering early this morning.
Greenpeace are protesting the bank's carbon footprint and have taken action at 95 sites in towns and cities across the UK.
At targeted branches, images of Barclays customers bearing slogans such as Stop Funding Fossil Fuels and Stop Funding the Climate Emergency were plastered on branch windows.
Pop-up exhibitions have blocked access to major branches of the bank in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, London and Manchester.
The exhibitions displayed photographs of some of the worst climate emergency disasters in the four years since the Paris Climate agreement was signed.
Morten Thaysen, climate finance campaigner at Greenpeace UK said: "From floods in Southampton to bushfires across the globe and record heat in Antarctica, the impacts of this crisis are staring us in the face.
"We’ve shut down branches across the country to shine a spotlight on Barclays’ role in bankrolling this emergency."
Barclays spokesperson said: “We recognise that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today, and are determined to do all we can to support the transition to a low carbon economy, while also ensuring that global energy needs continue to be met.
"Greenpeace has a view on these issues to which they are completely entitled, but we would ask that – in expressing that view – they stop short of behaviour which targets our customers, and our colleagues, going about their lives in communities around the country.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Man arrested after car crash leaves one dead and one "seriously injured"

A man has been arrested following a car crash which killed an 18-year-old man from Eastleigh .
Police were called to a collision yesterday evening on Allbrook Way , involving a blue Ford Fiesta and a blue Subaru Impreza .
Emergency services attended but the driver of the fiesta , an 18-year-old man from Eastleigh was pronounced dead at the scene .
A 35-year-old woman from London was also taken to hospital after `` suffering serious injuries '' during the incident which took place at around 9.46pm last night .
Now a Winchester man has been arrested on suspicion of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or consideration while over the specified limit of a controlled drug and witnesses of the incident are being urged to come forward .
Officers say the 35-year-old was driving while `` over the specified limit '' of a controlled drug .
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said : `` We are appealing for witnesses after a man sadly died following a collision in Eastleigh involving two vehicles last night ( March 1 ) .
`` Emergency services attended , but the driver of the Fiesta , an 18-year-old from Eastleigh , was sadly pronounced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 34-year-old man from Winchester has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving without due care or consideration while over specified limit of a controlled drug .
`` Officers are investigating the exact circumstances of the collision and are keen to speak with any witnesses .
If you saw the collision , or have dash cam footage of the collision or either of the vehicles in the Allbrook Way area in the time leading up to 9.46pm , please call 101 , quoting 44200078958 .
`` Alternatively , you can call Crimestoppers @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Police were called to a collision yesterday evening on Allbrook Way, involving a blue Ford Fiesta and a blue Subaru Impreza.
Emergency services attended but the driver of the fiesta, an 18-year-old man from Eastleigh was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 35-year-old woman from London was also taken to hospital after "suffering serious injuries" during the incident which took place at around 9.46pm last night.
Now a Winchester man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving without due care or consideration while over the specified limit of a controlled drug and witnesses of the incident are being urged to come forward.
Officers say the 35-year-old was driving while "over the specified limit" of a controlled drug.
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: "We are appealing for witnesses after a man sadly died following a collision in Eastleigh involving two vehicles last night (March 1).
"Emergency services attended, but the driver of the Fiesta, an 18-year-old from Eastleigh, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
"A 34-year-old man from Winchester has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by driving without due care or consideration while over specified limit of a controlled drug.
"Officers are investigating the exact circumstances of the collision and are keen to speak with any witnesses. If you saw the collision, or have dash cam footage of the collision or either of the vehicles in the Allbrook Way area in the time leading up to 9.46pm, please call 101, quoting 44200078958.
"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--"Disgusting" man who spat in police officer's face is jailed for 10 weeks

A SOUTHAMPTON man who spat in a police officer 's face has been jailed .
Oskar Feliks Starostka , 27 , committed the `` disgusting '' offence as police attempted to arrest him at his home in Southampton .
Starostka also attempted to knock an officer off balance as he attempted to move him down a flight of stairs .
Starostka , who pleaded guilty to one count of assault on an emergency worker , was jailed for 10 weeks .
Southampton Magistrates ' Court heard how officers were called to an address in Bitterne Road West after reports of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court that when they arrived they found Starostka `` intoxicated '' and `` out of it '' .
Mr Hunter said that as officers attempted to arrest Starostka he shouted `` do not touch me '' , but he was eventually handcuffed .
The court heard that as police attempted to lead Starostka out of the building he spat at one of the officers , catching him in the face .
He was then put in a spit hood .
In a victim impact statement , read out in court , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spitting `` disgusting '' .
Mr Hunter said Starostka also attempted to kick off the stairs and caused an officer to become imbalanced during the incident .
In mitigation , Eve Shelley said her client suffered from severe mental health difficulties including depression and anxiety , as well as suffering seizures .
Ms Shelley said Starostka was on medication and was showing signs of improvement .
She added that Starostka had `` no recollection '' of the incident .
Magistrates ' jailed Starostka , who also pleaded guilty to committing an offence while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an assault on an officer , was jailed for a total of 10 weeks .
Starostka , of Bitterne Road West , Southampton , was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £122 .

Oskar Feliks Starostka, 27, committed the "disgusting" offence as police attempted to arrest him at his home in Southampton.
Starostka also attempted to knock an officer off balance as he attempted to move him down a flight of stairs.
Starostka, who pleaded guilty to one count of assault on an emergency worker, was jailed for 10 weeks.
Southampton Magistrates' Court heard how officers were called to an address in Bitterne Road West after reports of a disturbance.
Prosecutor Liam Hunter told the court that when they arrived they found Starostka "intoxicated" and "out of it".
Mr Hunter said that as officers attempted to arrest Starostka he shouted "do not touch me", but he was eventually handcuffed.
The court heard that as police attempted to lead Starostka out of the building he spat at one of the officers, catching him in the face.
He was then put in a spit hood.
In a victim impact statement, read out in court, the officer said they found the act of spitting "disgusting".
Mr Hunter said Starostka also attempted to kick off the stairs and caused an officer to become imbalanced during the incident.
In mitigation, Eve Shelley said her client suffered from severe mental health difficulties including depression and anxiety, as well as suffering seizures.
Ms Shelley said Starostka was on medication and was showing signs of improvement.
She added that Starostka had "no recollection" of the incident.
Magistrates' jailed Starostka, who also pleaded guilty to committing an offence while on a community order, also for an assault on an officer, was jailed for a total of 10 weeks.
Starostka, of Bitterne Road West, Southampton, was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £122.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Coronavirus: The situation in Hampshire and the latest advice

HERE is everything we know about Coronavirus , both in the Southampton region and nationally .
A GP surgery in Romsey was shut last week over worries of the coronavirus .
The Nightingale Site of Abbeywell Surgery in Romsey closed on February 27 “ due to a potential infection ” .
A spokesperson for the surgery confirmed to the Daily Echo that the closure was due to worries over the coronavirus .
A cruise ship which sailed from Southampton was turned away from a Caribbean port at the weekend after fears of Coronavirus .
Eight passengers travelling on MS Braemar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struck down with flu-like symptoms .
The Braemar which set sail from Southampton on December 3 was due to dock at the Port of La Romana in the Dominican Republic on Wednesday , February 26 .
However , the Dominican health authority turned the vessel away after the captain reported passengers had symptoms including fever , cough , or breathing difficulties .
Staff at Southampton General Hospital have also been told to shave to help limit the spread of coronavirus , it has been reported .
Which schools were affected last week ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ school seemed to be affected last week .
A Romsey school has issued a warning to parents over the coronavirus .
The Romsey School has confirmed in an official statement that some students have gone home as a `` precautionary measure '' .
Though it is not known whether any members of staff or students have got the virus .
An official statement said : `` There have been no known cases of any member of the school community having the coronavirus .
`` Any pupils who have gone home have done so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand-shakes is one effective way of reducing the risk of catching coronavirus , experts say .
Thorough hand-washing , maintaining distance from others and avoiding contact like hand-shakes can be a good way to stem the spread of the virus .
As fears intensify over the European spread of Covid-19 , health professionals have said everyday precautions like carrying hand sanitiser are the best tools to protect against contracting the illness .
Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze , rather than your hands , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helpful , according to NHS guidance .
The Prime Minister is to chair an emergency Cobra meeting on coronavirus following a weekend which saw the number of people infected in the UK climb to 36 .
Boris Johnson is expected to warn ministers that Covid-19 will present a `` significant challenge '' to the country as he finalises a new battle plan by the Government .
Thirteen new coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the UK as the number of people infected climbed to 36 .
The first person in Scotland to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelled from Italy - the worst-affected country in Europe .
Twelve new cases were diagnosed in England on Sunday and the Health Secretary admitted it was `` inevitable '' the deadly virus would continue to spread .
Matt Hancock would not rule out following China 's lead in shutting down cities if the Covid-19 outbreak escalates .
The UK looks set for more widespread infection of coronavirus as more cases occur among people with no links to overseas outbreaks , a senior Public Health England ( PHE ) official has said .
Globally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the virus exceeds 3,000 and there have been almost 90,000 confirmed cases .

What's the situation in Hampshire?
A person from Hampshire has been confirmed as testing positive for coronavirus - the first case in the county since the outbreak in China.
A government department has confirmed that 12 further patients have tested positive in England.
No further details have been released about the patient from Hampshire.
A GP surgery in Romsey was shut last week over worries of the coronavirus.
The Nightingale Site of Abbeywell Surgery in Romsey closed on February 27 “due to a potential infection”.
A spokesperson for the surgery confirmed to the Daily Echo that the closure was due to worries over the coronavirus.
A cruise ship which sailed from Southampton was turned away from a Caribbean port at the weekend after fears of Coronavirus.
Eight passengers travelling on MS Braemar operated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines were struck down with flu-like symptoms.
The Braemar which set sail from Southampton on December 3 was due to dock at the Port of La Romana in the Dominican Republic on Wednesday, February 26.
However, the Dominican health authority turned the vessel away after the captain reported passengers had symptoms including fever, cough, or breathing difficulties.
Staff at Southampton General Hospital have also been told to shave to help limit the spread of coronavirus, it has been reported.
Which schools were affected last week?
In our area, just the one school seemed to be affected last week.
A Romsey school has issued a warning to parents over the coronavirus.
The Romsey School has confirmed in an official statement that some students have gone home as a "precautionary measure".
Though it is not known whether any members of staff or students have got the virus.
An official statement said: "There have been no known cases of any member of the school community having the coronavirus.
"Any pupils who have gone home have done so as a precautionary measure."
What’s the latest advice?
AVOIDING hand-shakes is one effective way of reducing the risk of catching coronavirus, experts say.
Thorough hand-washing, maintaining distance from others and avoiding contact like hand-shakes can be a good way to stem the spread of the virus.
As fears intensify over the European spread of Covid-19, health professionals have said everyday precautions like carrying hand sanitiser are the best tools to protect against contracting the illness.
Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze, rather than your hands, and binning used tissues immediately is also helpful, according to NHS guidance.
What's happened nationally?
Up to one in five workers in the UK could be off sick during a coronavirus peak, while the police may switch to only dealing with serious crime, a new Government battle plan says.
The 27-page document sets out the UK-wide response to Covid-19, with possible measures including the cancellation of non-urgent operations and retired NHS staff being called "back to duty".
Twelve new cases were recorded in the UK as of 9am today, officials said, including two in Bury and another in Bolton.
The other cases were confirmed in London, Hampshire, Northamptonshire, Wirral, Humberside and Kent.
The Government's battle plan was set out before Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed that the number of people diagnosed with coronavirus in the UK has risen to 51.
Matt Hancock would not rule out following China's lead in shutting down cities if the Covid-19 outbreak escalates.
The UK looks set for more widespread infection of coronavirus as more cases occur among people with no links to overseas outbreaks, a senior Public Health England (PHE) official has said.
Globally, the number of people killed worldwide by the virus exceeds 3,000 and there have been almost 90,000 confirmed cases.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Gosport Class A drugs supply conspiracy: seven men charged after police probe

SEVEN men from Gosport have been charged with drug supply offences following a police probe .
All of the men have been charged in relation to an alleged Class A drug supply conspiracy in Gosport .
The investigation , launched by officers from Hampshire Constabulary ’ s Serious and Organised Crime Unit , focused on the period between September 1 2018 and May 1 2019 .
On Friday February 28 , the following people were charged or issued with summons to court : - Jack Zachary Darvill , aged 21 years , of Central Road in Fareham , charged with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Class A drug .
- Rayhaan Hoque , aged 37 years , of Woolmore Street , Tower Hamlets , London , charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug .
- John Edward Parham , aged 32 years , of The Crossways in Gosport , charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug .
- Luke Alan Goldsmith , aged 27 years , of Rambler Drive , Gosport , charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug , and one count @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - Jacob James , aged 25 years , of Briar Close , Gosport , charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug .
- Lance Burt , aged 21 years , of Bury Hall Lane in Gosport , charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug .
- Liam Whitnell , aged 36 years , of no fixed abode , summonsed to court to face two charges of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug .
All seven are due to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ @ @

All of the men have been charged in relation to an alleged Class A drug supply conspiracy in Gosport.
The investigation, launched by officers from Hampshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit, focused on the period between September 1 2018 and May 1 2019.
On Friday February 28, the following people were charged or issued with summons to court:
- Jack Zachary Darvill, aged 21 years, of Central Road in Fareham, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
- Rayhaan Hoque, aged 37 years, of Woolmore Street, Tower Hamlets, London, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
- John Edward Parham, aged 32 years, of The Crossways in Gosport, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
- Luke Alan Goldsmith, aged 27 years, of Rambler Drive, Gosport, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug, and one count of perverting the course of justice.
- Jacob James, aged 25 years, of Briar Close, Gosport, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
- Lance Burt, aged 21 years, of Bury Hall Lane in Gosport, charged with two counts of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
- Liam Whitnell, aged 36 years, of no fixed abode, summonsed to court to face two charges of conspiracy to supply a Class A drug.
All seven are due to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court on Thursday March 26.


thedailyecho--2020-03-02--Peter Andre laughs off Coronavirus selfie ban

PETER Andre has laughed off claims that he refused to touch fans in Southampton over Coronavirus fears .
Taking to Twitter , the Mysterious Girl singer reacted to reports that signs were put up at the An Evening with Peter Andre event at Central Hall at the weekend asking fans to keep their distance .
He said : `` Ok this must be a wind up because I hugged everyone I met .
People were saying to me that they had been told not to touch me and that there were signs.I thought they were joking .
Brilliant .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a diva .On a serious note though don ’ t touch me . ''
His Tweet was followed by a face with tears of laughter emoji .
Fans were reportedly told not to touch or take selfies with the singer on signs which read : `` Due to the recent cases of the coronavirus please DO NOT have any physical contact with Peter Andre . ''
But a number took to social media to say the popular crooner was as tactile as ever .
`` He put his arm around me and was @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Taking to Twitter, the Mysterious Girl singer reacted to reports that signs were put up at the An Evening with Peter Andre event at Central Hall at the weekend asking fans to keep their distance.
He said: "Ok this must be a wind up because I hugged everyone I met. People were saying to me that they had been told not to touch me and that there were signs.I thought they were joking. Brilliant. I am now officially a diva without being a diva .On a serious note though don’t touch me." His Tweet was followed by a face with tears of laughter emoji.
Fans were reportedly told not to touch or take selfies with the singer on signs which read: "Due to the recent cases of the coronavirus please DO NOT have any physical contact with Peter Andre."
But a number took to social media to say the popular crooner was as tactile as ever. "He put his arm around me and was really lovely," one said.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Man admits sexual assault and dangerous driving outside Southampton nightclub

A MAN sexually assaulted a woman outside a Southampton nightclub before getting into his car and mounting a kerb near to her and her friends .
Joseph Smith-Butcher grabbed at the woman 's backside before being tackled to the floor by door staff at Cafe Parfait in Above Bar Street .
But after walking away , Smith-Butcher returned in a blue Ford Focus which he drove onto a kerb near to the woman and her friends – causing them to jump to their right-hand side in fear .
Smith-Butcher then reversed his car into an Uber vehicle before speeding off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chase .
Southampton Crown Court heard how the incident began near to Cafe Parfait on February 14 last year .
CCTV showed Smith-Butcher approaching a group of women before putting his hand on his victim 's backside .
Prosecutor Keeley Harvey told the court Smith-Butcher held his hand there for `` five to 10 seconds '' before he was tackled to the floor by two nearby doormen .
Ms Harvey said Smith-Butcher then walked away along Above Bar Street , in the direction of London Road .
But the court heard that minutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smith-Butcher , mounted the kerb near to where the group were standing – narrowly missing a passer-by in the process .
Ms Harvey said the incident caused the women to move to their right-hand side in fear of the car .
CCTV showed the Ford Focus then driving away , before reversing back into an Uber car , causing substantial damage to the driver 's vehicle .
Smith-Butcher then drove away down Above Bar Street at speed , turning into London Road and managing to evade chasing police .
His vehicle was found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side of the road near Stoneham Way around an hour after the incident in Above Bar Street .
When later tested by police he was found to have 153 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood .
The legal limit is 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood , meaning he was nearly double the drink-drive limit .
In mitigation , Jamie Gammon said Smith-Butcher accepted his driving was dangerous , but that he had not driven deliberately at the women outside Cafe Parfait .
He said Smith-Butcher had suffered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been released from Southampton-based psychiatric intensive care unit a month before the incident .
Smith-Butcher , of Walkers Lane North , Blackfield , to 14 months in prison , pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and one count of dangerous driving .
Judge Nicholas Rowland sentenced him to 14 months in prison , suspended for two years .
Smith-Butcher was also ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and 30 days of rehabilitation activity requirement .
In a previous hearing , at Southampton Magistrates ' Court , Smith-Butcher was banned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilty to drink-driving .
He will not be allowed to drive again until he passes an extended retest .

Joseph Smith-Butcher grabbed at the woman's backside before being tackled to the floor by door staff at Cafe Parfait in Above Bar Street.
But after walking away, Smith-Butcher returned in a blue Ford Focus which he drove onto a kerb near to the woman and her friends – causing them to jump to their right-hand side in fear.
Smith-Butcher then reversed his car into an Uber vehicle before speeding off down Above Bar Street as police gave chase.
Southampton Crown Court heard how the incident began near to Cafe Parfait on February 14 last year.
CCTV showed Smith-Butcher approaching a group of women before putting his hand on his victim's backside.
Prosecutor Keeley Harvey told the court Smith-Butcher held his hand there for "five to 10 seconds" before he was tackled to the floor by two nearby doormen.
Ms Harvey said Smith-Butcher then walked away along Above Bar Street, in the direction of London Road.
But the court heard that minutes later a Ford Focus, driven by Smith-Butcher, mounted the kerb near to where the group were standing – narrowly missing a passer-by in the process.
Ms Harvey said the incident caused the women to move to their right-hand side in fear of the car.
CCTV showed the Ford Focus then driving away, before reversing back into an Uber car, causing substantial damage to the driver's vehicle.
Smith-Butcher then drove away down Above Bar Street at speed, turning into London Road and managing to evade chasing police.
His vehicle was found, with him inside, on the side of the road near Stoneham Way around an hour after the incident in Above Bar Street.
When later tested by police he was found to have 153 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.
The legal limit is 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, meaning he was nearly double the drink-drive limit.
In mitigation, Jamie Gammon said Smith-Butcher accepted his driving was dangerous, but that he had not driven deliberately at the women outside Cafe Parfait.
He said Smith-Butcher had suffered from mental health issues and had recently been released from Southampton-based psychiatric intensive care unit a month before the incident.
Smith-Butcher, of Walkers Lane North, Blackfield, to 14 months in prison, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and one count of dangerous driving.
Judge Nicholas Rowland sentenced him to 14 months in prison, suspended for two years.
Smith-Butcher was also ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and 30 days of rehabilitation activity requirement.
In a previous hearing, at Southampton Magistrates' Court, Smith-Butcher was banned from driving for five years after pleading guilty to drink-driving.
He will not be allowed to drive again until he passes an extended retest.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Fareham coach company Lucketts Travel Group bought by National Express

A MULTI-million pound Fareham company known as the south coast 's largest coach operator has been bought by National Express after 94 years .
Family-run business Lucketts Travel Group has now handed over ownership to the biggest scheduled national coach network in the UK .
The luxury coach hire group , which employs 350 people and operates Coliseum Coaches , Mortons Travel , Solent Coaches and Worthing Coaches , has provided first class holidays and day trips to tens of thousands of customers every year since 1926 .
Although the Lucketts family have now handed over the company to National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under its existing name .
Leader of Fareham Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Heritage and Culture Sean Woodward has praised the new purchase .
He said : “ Lucketts is a very well-established company which has brought lots of employment to Fareham .
“ I ’ m delighted to see them move onto their next stage .
It is very good news indeed.
” Services will continue to run as normal while new owners National Express will be “ building upon what Lucketts has developed ” .
Director of Lucketts , Ian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delighted that Lucketts Group is joining National Express with whom we have had a strong relationship for many years .
“ We know we can trust them to look after what our family built up and we are confident that they will be able to take the business to the next level.
” The value of the purchase has been undisclosed but it is believed to be worth millions .
In 2019 , Lucketts Travel Group had a turnover of £25.2m and made £1m profit before tax .
National Express managing director for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We already have a strong relationship with Lucketts so know it is a fantastic company with an excellent record of delivering high quality services .
“ The acquisition enables us to expand further into the private hire and tours market and we look forward to welcoming all our new colleagues to National Express .
”

Family-run business Lucketts Travel Group has now handed over ownership to the biggest scheduled national coach network in the UK.
The luxury coach hire group, which employs 350 people and operates Coliseum Coaches, Mortons Travel, Solent Coaches and Worthing Coaches, has provided first class holidays and day trips to tens of thousands of customers every year since 1926.
Although the Lucketts family have now handed over the company to National Express, it will continue to trade under its existing name.
Leader of Fareham Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Heritage and Culture Sean Woodward has praised the new purchase.
He said: “Lucketts is a very well-established company which has brought lots of employment to Fareham.
“I’m delighted to see them move onto their next stage. It is very good news indeed.”
Services will continue to run as normal while new owners National Express will be “building upon what Lucketts has developed”.
Director of Lucketts, Ian Luckett, said: “We are delighted that Lucketts Group is joining National Express with whom we have had a strong relationship for many years.
“We know we can trust them to look after what our family built up and we are confident that they will be able to take the business to the next level.”
The value of the purchase has been undisclosed but it is believed to be worth millions.
In 2019, Lucketts Travel Group had a turnover of £25.2m and made £1m profit before tax.
National Express managing director for UK and Germany Tom Stables said: “We already have a strong relationship with Lucketts so know it is a fantastic company with an excellent record of delivering high quality services.
“The acquisition enables us to expand further into the private hire and tours market and we look forward to welcoming all our new colleagues to National Express.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Jayzer Sam Wilkie and Jak Dylan Wilkie jailed for robbery and aggravated burglary

TWO brothers have been jailed for a total of 21 years for robbery and burglary - including a carjacking in Hampshire .
A man was driving along School Lane in Lymington when his Renault Clio was flagged down by Jayzer Sam Wilkie and his younger brother , Jak Dylan Wilkie .
The driver , a man in his 30s , was assaulted by both defendants who then stole his car .
They were stopped and arrested by police a short time later before being charged with robbery .
Jayzer Wilkie , 31 , of Pallance Road in Northwood , near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , of no fixed abode , admitted the offence at a magistrates ' court hearing on the Isle of Wight .
They were also charged with aggravated burglary following an incident in Westminster Lane , Newport , in which they forced entry to a property and threatened the occupant with knives .
Nothing was stolen in the incident , which occurred on August 29 last year - a few days before the carjacking in Lymington .
Both men initially denied the burglary but on the first day of their trial at Isle of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They were each jailed for nine-and-a-half-years for the burglary and 12 months each for the robbery .

A man was driving along School Lane in Lymington when his Renault Clio was flagged down by Jayzer Sam Wilkie and his younger brother, Jak Dylan Wilkie.
The driver, a man in his 30s, was assaulted by both defendants who then stole his car.
They were stopped and arrested by police a short time later before being charged with robbery.
Jayzer Wilkie, 31, of Pallance Road in Northwood, near Cowes, and Jak Wilkie, 28, of no fixed abode, admitted the offence at a magistrates' court hearing on the Isle of Wight.
They were also charged with aggravated burglary following an incident in Westminster Lane, Newport, in which they forced entry to a property and threatened the occupant with knives.
Nothing was stolen in the incident, which occurred on August 29 last year - a few days before the carjacking in Lymington.
Both men initially denied the burglary but on the first day of their trial at Isle of Wight Crown Court they pleaded guilty.
They were each jailed for nine-and-a-half-years for the burglary and 12 months each for the robbery.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Mum, baby and dog escape car fire without any injuries

A ROMSEY woman has spoken of her horror after escaping from a burning car with her baby and dog .
Sara-Jane Reilly was driving along Bypass Road , Romsey , with her 14-month-old girl when her car stopped and smoke started `` blowing out of the bonnet '' .
Now the 36-year-old has thanked the man and woman who helped her family in their hour of need after her Peugeot 208 HDI was engulfed in flames .
Sara-Jane , who lives in Sandy Lane , said : `` I was driving back from my parents at 6.15pm when my engine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rolls to a halt .
`` Smoke started blowing out of the car bonnet , so I jumped out of the car and grabbed my daughter , Lily , from the back seat .
`` It was pitch black , no cars were stopping and I started to panic because within a couple of minutes flames were coming out of the car roof .
`` I feared for my daughter 's life because I have seen cars exploded before and my Chihuahua , Merlin , was terrified too .
`` I was worried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been run over . ''
She added : `` It seemed like an eternity , but a man called Dave Barker stopped and he tried to get my dog out of the car ; Merlin was frightened and tried to bite him . ''
`` I passed Lily to Dave and managed to get Merlin out of the car .
I was in a state of shock .
`` It was terrifying and Dave gave me his phone to ring the emergency services , as we realised we were putting ourselves in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I am lucky because cars can auto-lock in fires , so I was fortunate I could get out quickly as my car burnt out in 15 minutes . ''
Sara-Jane , who is a laboratory assistant for the NHS , stressed how a woman called Debbie Allen helped the family and stopped behind Dave to drive them to the Three Tuns to get away from the fire .
She added : `` I want to thank both Dave and Debbie for stopping to help me and I am very grateful . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has affected her , Sara-Jane said : `` My car was worth £5,000 , which will be covered by my insurance , but I am going to have to pay £350 in excess and it has made me feel nervous about driving , because the car was only five-years-old .
`` I have also written a letter to the managing director of Peugeot , because I would not expect a car to go up in flames . ''
Sara-Jane said she is currently being helped by her husband , Philip Moore , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Hampshire Fire and Rescue said : `` We got a phone call at 6.13pm from a woman who said her car was on fire .
`` One crew from Totton attended the scene and the car was 100 percent destroyed by the fire .
`` Police were also called to manage traffic as the car was on an unlit section of the road . ''
The stop message came in at 7.04pm .
Hampshire police has been contacted for comment .
The car burst into flames on Saturday , February 22 .

Sara-Jane Reilly was driving along Bypass Road, Romsey, with her 14-month-old girl when her car stopped and smoke started "blowing out of the bonnet".
Now the 36-year-old has thanked the man and woman who helped her family in their hour of need after her Peugeot 208 HDI was engulfed in flames.
Sara-Jane, who lives in Sandy Lane, said: "I was driving back from my parents at 6.15pm when my engine light comes on and then my cars rolled to a halt.
"Smoke started blowing out of the car bonnet, so I jumped out of the car and grabbed my daughter, Lily, from the back seat.
"It was pitch black, no cars were stopping and I started to panic because within a couple of minutes flames were coming out of the car roof.
"I feared for my daughter's life because I have seen cars exploded before and my Chihuahua, Merlin, was terrified too.
"I was worried if I let him out he would have been run over."
She added: "It seemed like an eternity, but a man called Dave Barker stopped and he tried to get my dog out of the car; Merlin was frightened and tried to bite him."
"I passed Lily to Dave and managed to get Merlin out of the car. I was in a state of shock.
"It was terrifying and Dave gave me his phone to ring the emergency services, as we realised we were putting ourselves in danger.
"It was very surreal and I am lucky because cars can auto-lock in fires, so I was fortunate I could get out quickly as my car burnt out in 15 minutes."
Sara-Jane, who is a laboratory assistant for the NHS, stressed how a woman called Debbie Allen helped the family and stopped behind Dave to drive them to the Three Tuns to get away from the fire.
She added: "I want to thank both Dave and Debbie for stopping to help me and I am very grateful."
When asked about how the car fire has affected her, Sara-Jane said: "My car was worth £5,000, which will be covered by my insurance, but I am going to have to pay £350 in excess and it has made me feel nervous about driving, because the car was only five-years-old.
"I have also written a letter to the managing director of Peugeot, because I would not expect a car to go up in flames."
Sara-Jane said she is currently being helped by her partner, Philip Moore, who owns his own car.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Fire and Rescue said: "We got a phone call at 6.13pm from a woman who said her car was on fire.
"One crew from Totton attended the scene and the car was 100 percent destroyed by the fire.
"Police were also called to manage traffic as the car was on an unlit section of the road."
The stop message came in at 7.04pm.
Hampshire police has been contacted for comment.
The car burst into flames on Saturday, February 22.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--CCTV released of man following house burglary on Burgess Road, Southampton

POLICE have released CCTV of a man they would like to following a house burglary in Southampton .
A kitchen @ @ @ @ @ items including an iPad pro , jewellery , tools , cash and bank cards were @ @ @ @ @ Burgess Road while the home owner was out .
The debit card that was among @ @ @ @ @ used for small transactions in local shops .
It took place between 9am and 3.45pm @ @ @ @ @ A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said : `` We are releasing these images of a @ @ @ @ @ speak to as he may be able to assist our enquiries .
`` He is @ @ @ @ @ years old with dark hair and a tattoo on his hand .
`` It is @ @ @ @ @ to the Swaythling and Portswood area .
`` If you recognise this him or have @ @ @ @ @ our investigation , please call us on 101 , quoting reference 44200010565 .

A kitchen window was smashed and various items including an iPad pro, jewellery, tools, cash and bank cards were stolen from a home on Burgess Road while the home owner was out.
The debit card that was among the stolen items was subsequently used for small transactions in local shops.
It took place between 9am and 3.45pm on Thursday January 9.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We are releasing these images of a man we are keen to speak to as he may be able to assist our enquiries.
"He is described as being between 20-40 years old with dark hair and a tattoo on his hand.
"It is believed he may have links to the Swaythling and Portswood area.
"If you recognise this him or have any information that might assist our investigation, please call us on 101, quoting reference 44200010565.
"Alternatively, people can call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--New stylish bar opens its doors in Southampton

A BRAND new stylish bar and kitchen has just opened its doors for the first time in Southampton .
Named The Handlebar , Christian Astridge has opened his new alehouse named after his moustache and style .
He is well known around Southampton for working behind the counters and in the kitchens of many of the top bars and restaurants .
Now , at 27 years old , Christian has opened his own alehouse and kitchen on The Avenue , Southampton .
It is purely coincidental that Southampton City Council has just constructed a new cycleway directly outside his premises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handlebar ” theme .
For Christian his new venture is a dream come true .
He said it took months of hard work to transform the building from the former Dock O The Bay premises to an intimate alehouse with its mezzanine and bar areas which cater for 60 customers .
Southampton graffiti artist , Slam Daniels , has worked his magic with two new murals , one of which has a handlebar depiction .
Christian said : “ I see it as a hybrid between a traditional pub and something a little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however , there were no flashing lights , loud music , televisions or gaming machine .
He added : '' We are not that kind of pub .
`` Rather we see it as a place where people come for conversation , a place to meet over a great product . ''
The bar , which is a free house , has six hand pumps and is serves local ales .
The bar includes a solid wood counter with a new cellar and wetroom , new toilet facilities , new tables , seating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and whole new décor .
Eye-catching signage has been erected with a decking area in the front of the bar .
Christian said : `` My Mum has been a great influence and I am delighted to say that she will be cooking for our customers every Wednesday evening with her delicious cottage pie , meatballs and pasta , and fish and chips dishes on the menu .
`` It will be ‘ Sandy ’ s Wednesday ’ and the kitchen will be all hers . ''
He also paid tribute to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the next month , The Handle Bar will offer a simple lunch menu consisting of homemade soups , ploughmans and jacket potatoes .

Named The Handlebar, Christian Astridge has opened his new alehouse named after his moustache and style.
He is well known around Southampton for working behind the counters and in the kitchens of many of the top bars and restaurants.
Now, at 27 years old, Christian has opened his own alehouse and kitchen on The Avenue, Southampton.
It is purely coincidental that Southampton City Council has just constructed a new cycleway directly outside his premises adding a little more to the “handlebar” theme.
For Christian his new venture is a dream come true.
He said it took months of hard work to transform the building from the former Dock O The Bay premises to an intimate alehouse with its mezzanine and bar areas which cater for 60 customers.
Southampton graffiti artist, Slam Daniels, has worked his magic with two new murals, one of which has a handlebar depiction.
Christian said: “I see it as a hybrid between a traditional pub and something a little more trendy."
He said, however, there were no flashing lights, loud music, televisions or gaming machine.
He added:"We are not that kind of pub.
"Rather we see it as a place where people come for conversation, a place to meet over a great product."
The bar, which is a free house, has six hand pumps and is serves local ales.
The bar includes a solid wood counter with a new cellar and wetroom, new toilet facilities, new tables, seating, lighting, a refurbished kitchen area and whole new décor.
Eye-catching signage has been erected with a decking area in the front of the bar.
Christian said: "My Mum has been a great influence and I am delighted to say that she will be cooking for our customers every Wednesday evening with her delicious cottage pie, meatballs and pasta, and fish and chips dishes on the menu.
"It will be ‘Sandy’s Wednesday’ and the kitchen will be all hers."
He also paid tribute to his business associate and fellow Director Graham Harrison.
In the next month, The Handle Bar will offer a simple lunch menu consisting of homemade soups, ploughmans and jacket potatoes.
The Handle Bar opened on February 27, 2020.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Body found in search for missing Hampshire man

A BODY has been found by officers following a search for a missing Hampshire man .
After Jonathan Wainwright went missing just after 11am yesterday morning , an appeal was sent out to residents to help find the 47-year-old from Hayling Island .
During the search yesterday , officers searching for him located a man 's body and formal identification is currently taking place .
Police say at this stage the death is not being treated as suspicious .
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said : `` You may have seen our post this morning about missing Jonathan Wainwright from Hayling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wainwright have today located a man ’ s body ( March 2 ) .
Formal identification procedures are ongoing and Mr Wainwright ’ s next of kin have been made aware .
`` At this stage , the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner . ''
This comes after the 47-year-old was last seen at his home on Kings Road in Hayling Island .
He sent a text message to his wife just before 11am to say he was going on a bicycle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen since , which is reportedly `` extremely out of character '' of him .
As previously reported , it is believed he will be wearing cycling clothing but could have gone out with slippers on rather than normal shoes .
Jonathan likes to ride his bicycle to Farlington Marshes and could also be in the Emsworth area .
If you have any information , you can contact police on 101 , quoting the reference number 44200078790 .

After Jonathan Wainwright went missing just after 11am yesterday morning, an appeal was sent out to residents to help find the 47-year-old from Hayling Island.
During the search yesterday, officers searching for him located a man's body and formal identification is currently taking place.
Police say at this stage the death is not being treated as suspicious.
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: "You may have seen our post this morning about missing Jonathan Wainwright from Hayling Island.
"Officers searching for Mr Wainwright have today located a man’s body (March 2). Formal identification procedures are ongoing and Mr Wainwright’s next of kin have been made aware.
"At this stage, the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner."
This comes after the 47-year-old was last seen at his home on Kings Road in Hayling Island.
He sent a text message to his wife just before 11am to say he was going on a bicycle ride, but he hasn't been seen since, which is reportedly "extremely out of character" of him.
As previously reported, it is believed he will be wearing cycling clothing but could have gone out with slippers on rather than normal shoes.
Jonathan likes to ride his bicycle to Farlington Marshes and could also be in the Emsworth area.
If you have any information, you can contact police on 101, quoting the reference number 44200078790.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Safety plea to M27  speeders

Safety plea to M27  speeders

HAMPSHIRE Police chiefs have issued a safety plea to motorists after it was revealed that 12,000 drivers were caught speeding through the M27 ’ s temporary 50mph speed limit .
Police bosses say excessive speeds on the roads have “ catastrophic consequences ” .
And they have backed the use of the temporary 50mph limit , in place while Highways England upgrades the M27 to a smart motorway , saying it is in place to protect road users and workers on the motorway .
The plea comes after a Freedom of Information ( FOI ) request by the Daily Echo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers breaking the temporary limit , between Fareham and Eastleigh , since it was introduced in February 2019 .
The figures also revealed that one driver was caught speeding at 117mph through the temporary speed zone .
Commenting on the figures , a spokesperson for Hampshire Police said : “ Driving at excessive and inappropriate speeds can have catastrophic consequences and cause devastation for families and loved ones of those involved in collisions as a result .
“ The 50mph limit on the M27 is not just in place for the safety of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the safety of the workers operating along the motorway.
” Figures revealed police handed out more than 3,200 fixed penalty notices to drivers caught between February 2019 and January 2020 , while 3,000 drivers were “ retrained ” and 1,446 drivers were prosecuted in the courts – with more cases still to come .
The temporary limit is in place while Highways England carries out a £250 million smart motorway upgrade on the M27 , which will see the hard shoulder converted into a fourth lane , with emergency refuges throughout .

Police bosses say excessive speeds on the roads have “catastrophic consequences”.
And they have backed the use of the temporary 50mph limit, in place while Highways England upgrades the M27 to a smart motorway, saying it is in place to protect road users and workers on the motorway.
The plea comes after a Freedom of Information (FOI) request by the Daily Echo revealed how average speed cameras clocked 12,295 drivers breaking the temporary limit, between Fareham and Eastleigh, since it was introduced in February 2019.
The figures also revealed that one driver was caught speeding at 117mph through the temporary speed zone.
Commenting on the figures, a spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: “Driving at excessive and inappropriate speeds can have catastrophic consequences and cause devastation for families and loved ones of those involved in collisions as a result.
“The 50mph limit on the M27 is not just in place for the safety of all road users, but also for the safety of the workers operating along the motorway.”
Figures revealed police handed out more than 3,200 fixed penalty notices to drivers caught between February 2019 and January 2020, while 3,000 drivers were “retrained” and 1,446 drivers were prosecuted in the courts – with more cases still to come.
The temporary limit is in place while Highways England carries out a £250 million smart motorway upgrade on the M27, which will see the hard shoulder converted into a fourth lane, with emergency refuges throughout.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Delays on Gosport Road, Fareham following earlier crash

A CRASH has left motorists facing up to 40-minute delays on a main road in Fareham .
Gosport Road is @ @ @ @ @ to Mill Road .
The blockage is due to an earlier incident that is causing @ @ @ @ @ and Fareham Road .

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thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Co-op thief stole Rustlers burgers, fish and gift sets

Alex James Leigh , 26 , stole numerous gift sets of an unknown value from Co-Op on Winchester Hill , @ @ @ @ @ .
On December 16 , he the entered Co-Op in Romsey and stole fish and @ @ @ @ @ of £53.60 .
He then used threatening and abusive language towards a man at the @ @ @ @ @ Magistrates ' Court , he pleaded guilty to two accounts of theft and one account @ @ @ @ @ cause alarm of distress .
Leigh , of Withy Close , Romsey , was discharged @ @ @ @ @ ordered to pay compensation of £263.60 .

Alex James Leigh, 26, stole numerous gift sets of an unknown value from Co-Op on Winchester Hill, Romsey, on November 15.
On December 16, he the entered Co-Op in Romsey and stole fish and Rustlers burgers to the value of £53.60.
He then used threatening and abusive language towards a man at the shop.
Appearing at Southampton Magistrates' Court, he pleaded guilty to two accounts of theft and one account of using abusive language to cause alarm of distress.
Leigh, of Withy Close, Romsey, was discharged conditionally for 12 months and ordered to pay compensation of £263.60.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: These are the airlines cancelling hundreds of flights

Airlines including British Airways , Ryanair , and EasyJet have cancelled hundreds of flights due to growing outbreak of coronavirus .
The news comes as the number of infected people around the world topped a total of 90,000 .
More than 3,000 have now died from the disease .
In Italy , Europe ’ s worst hit country , there are nearly 2,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 .
Fears surrounding the global outbreak have affected travel companies , many of which have reported significant falls in demand .
As a result , hundreds of flights have been cancelled or rescheduled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flights between Heathrow airport and destinations in : They have also cancelled flights to and from Gatwick airport and Italy , France , and Albania , and connection flights to Germany and Italy from London City airport .
Willie Walsh , the boss of IAG which owns BA , said in February that there had been `` a significant fall-off in demand in Italy '' .
Ryanair has reduced its short-haul flight schedule by almost a quarter over the next three weeks , blaming a “ significant drop in bookings ” for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how many passengers would be impacted , but said most flights were to destinations in Italy , where the government is struggling to contain Europe ’ s largest Covid-19 outbreak .
Ryanair boss , Michael O ’ Leary said , “ Our focus at this time is on minimising any risk to our people and our passengers .
“ While we are heavily booked over the next two weeks , there has been a notable drop in forward bookings towards the end of Mar , into early April .
“ It makes sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from those airports where travel has been most affected by the Covid-19 outbreak .
“ This is a time for calm .
We will make sensible cuts to our schedules over the coming weeks to reflect weaker bookings , and changing travel patterns .
All affected customers will be advised of any schedule changes at least 14 days in advance.
” EasyJet has announced a raft of cancellations to flights in and out of their North Italian destinations .
In a statement , the company said , “ We have seen a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ] some slower demand across our other European markets .
“ As a result we will be making decisions to cancel some flights , particularly those into and out of Italy , while continuing to monitor the situation and adapting our flying programme to support demand .
“ Our procedures for dealing with communicable diseases are similar to those developed during the SARS epidemic and other global health emergencies.
” It warned investors that it was “ too early to determine ” how damaging the coronavirus outbreak would be to the company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it was planning to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 by cutting costs , including : We 've put together some information by the World Health Organisation and NHS on coronavirus : COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways .
It is caused by a virus called coronavirus .
What caused coronavirus ?
The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus , like others of its kind , has come from animals .
How is it spread ?
As this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still aren ’ t sure how it is spread .
But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets .
Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing , and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised .
Viruses like coronavirus can not live outside the body for very long .
What are the symptoms ?
The NHS states that the symptoms are : a dry cough , high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness .
Look out for flu-like symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nasal congestion , runny nose and a sore throat .
It ’ s important to remember that some people may become infected but won ’ t develop any symptoms or feel unwell .
What precautions can be taken ?
Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly .
The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve ( not your hands ) when you cough or sneeze ; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mouth unless your hands are clean .
Should I avoid public places ?
Most people who feel well can continue to go to work , school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service .
What should I do if I feel unwell ?
Don ’ t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms , have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus .

The news comes as the number of infected people around the world topped a total of 90,000.
More than 3,000 have now died from the disease. In Italy, Europe’s worst hit country, there are nearly 2,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19.
Fears surrounding the global outbreak have affected travel companies, many of which have reported significant falls in demand. As a result, hundreds of flights have been cancelled or rescheduled.
Which British Airways flights are affected?
BA has cancelled dozens of its flights between Heathrow airport and destinations in:
Italy
France
Austria
Belgium
Germany
Ireland
Switzerland
JFK airport in New York
They have also cancelled flights to and from Gatwick airport and Italy, France, and Albania, and connection flights to Germany and Italy from London City airport.
Willie Walsh, the boss of IAG which owns BA, said in February that there had been "a significant fall-off in demand in Italy".
Which Ryanair flights are affected?
Ryanair has reduced its short-haul flight schedule by almost a quarter over the next three weeks, blaming a “significant drop in bookings” for the decision.
The company did not say how many passengers would be impacted, but said most flights were to destinations in Italy, where the government is struggling to contain Europe’s largest Covid-19 outbreak.
Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary said, “Our focus at this time is on minimising any risk to our people and our passengers.
“While we are heavily booked over the next two weeks, there has been a notable drop in forward bookings towards the end of Mar, into early April.
“It makes sense to selectively prune our schedule to and from those airports where travel has been most affected by the Covid-19 outbreak.
“This is a time for calm. We will make sensible cuts to our schedules over the coming weeks to reflect weaker bookings, and changing travel patterns. All affected customers will be advised of any schedule changes at least 14 days in advance.”
Which EasyJet flights are affected?
EasyJet has announced a raft of cancellations to flights in and out of their North Italian destinations.
In a statement, the company said, “We have seen a significant softening of demand [in Italy, and] some slower demand across our other European markets.
“As a result we will be making decisions to cancel some flights, particularly those into and out of Italy, while continuing to monitor the situation and adapting our flying programme to support demand.
“Our procedures for dealing with communicable diseases are similar to those developed during the SARS epidemic and other global health emergencies.”
It warned investors that it was “too early to determine” how damaging the coronavirus outbreak would be to the company’s profits this year.
It said it was planning to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 by cutting costs, including:
Budget cuts administrative areas
Recruitment, promotion, and pay freezes
Offering unpaid leave and halting non-mandatory training
Aircraft reallocation
We've put together some information by the World Health Organisation and NHS on coronavirus:
What is coronavirus?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.
What caused coronavirus?
The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.
How is it spread?
As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.
What are the symptoms?
The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.
What precautions can be taken?
Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.
Should I avoid public places?
Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.
What should I do if I feel unwell?
Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.
When to call NHS 111
NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Coronavirus: First patient from Hampshire confirmed

A PERSON from Hampshire has been confirmed as testing positive for coronavirus - the first case in the county since the outbreak in China .
A government department has confirmed that 12 further patients have tested positive in England .
• Coronavirus : The situation in Hampshire and the latest advice The patients are from Hampshire , London , Northamptonshire , Bury , Wirral , Greater Manchester , Humberside and Kent .
The Department of Health and Social Care has reported that eight patients had recently travelled from Italy , one from Germany , one from Singapore , one from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further details have been released about the patient from Hampshire .
Included in the above figures are 12 further cases in England .
Following previously reported confirmed cases in Northern Ireland , Wales and Scotland , the total number of UK cases is 51 .
All are being investigated and contact tracing has begun .
pic.twitter.com/XyzmAWvAl8 — Department of Health and Social Care ( @ DHSCgovuk ) March 3 , 2020 Following previously reported confirmed cases in Northern Ireland , Wales and Scotland , the total number of UK cases is 51 .

Health officials last night confirmed that 12 further patients have tested positive for the deadly virus in England.
Bringing the total of UK cases to 51, the patients are from Hampshire, London, Northamptonshire, Bury, Wirral, Greater Manchester, Humberside and Kent.
According to a joint statement from the county council and Public Health England, the Hampshire patient has recently returned from Italy but is now in a treatment centre in London.
Included in the above figures are 12 further cases in England.
Following previously reported confirmed cases in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland, the total number of UK cases is 51.
All are being investigated and contact tracing has begun. pic.twitter.com/XyzmAWvAl8 — Department of Health and Social Care (@DHSCgovuk) March 3, 2020
The Department of Health and Social Care has reported that seven other patients had recently travelled from Italy, one from Germany, one from Singapore, one from Japan and one from Iran.
The Daily Echo has asked the government department for further details about the Hampshire patient but it refused citing patient confidentiality.
Hampshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, Simon Bryant, said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low.
“We are working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Hampshire are protected as much as possible.”
With around 90,000 reported cases, more than 3,000 people have died of the virus globally with most of the victims in China.
One of the countries worst hit aside from China is Italy, which on Monday saw a jump in its death toll from 34 to 52.
Last week a cruise ship which sailed from Southampton was turned away from the Dominican Republic after fears of Coronavirus.
Eight passengers on MS Braemar operated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines were struck down with flu-like symptoms.
The ship was due to dock at the Port of La Romana, however, the Dominican health authority turned it away.
It was later revealed that no guests or crew had the virus.


thedailyecho--2020-03-03--Woman injured in crash outside Lidl in Shirley

A WOMAN has been seriously injured in a crash outside a Southampton Lidl store .
Police say the pedestrian suffered @ @ @ @ @ by a van in the car park of Lidl in Shirley .
A spokesperson for @ @ @ @ @ were called to Shirley Road at 10.44am .
`` Someone in their eighties was hit @ @ @ @ @ to University Hospital Southampton with serious injuries .
`` We sent an ambulance crew and @ @ @ @ @ '' A police spokesperson said : `` We were called at 10.57am to a serious @ @ @ @ @ a van .
`` The pedestrian has serious injuries .
SCAS attended and she has @ @ @ @ @ '' Anyone who saw the incident or has dashcam footage should call 101 quoting incident @ @

Police say the pedestrian suffered serious injuries after being struck by a van in the car park of Lidl in Shirley.
The crash happened around 11am today.
A spokesperson for SCAS said: "We were called to Shirley Road at 10.44am.
"Someone in their eighties was hit by a van and sent to University Hospital Southampton with serious injuries.
"We sent an ambulance crew and a critical care car."
A police spokesperson said: "We were called at 10.57am to a serious collision – female pedestrian and a van.
"The pedestrian has serious injuries. SCAS attended and she has been taken to SGH."
Anyone who saw the incident or has dashcam footage should call 101 quoting incident 344.