thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Ferry bookings rise — as visitors head to Tier One Isle of Wight

PEOPLE are being urged not to travel to the Isle of Wight unless they need to visit relatives or have a second home on the Island .
Cornwall , the Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly are the only three regions to have been placed in Tier One — which allows households to mix indoors up to a maximum of six people , and pubs can serve alcohol without the need for a 'substantial meal ' .
This has led to concerns people may travel here to take advantage of looser coronavirus restrictions in Tier One .
Keith Greenfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year ’ s Christmas crossings would be quieter , but ferry bookings are rising post-lockdown .
Our sister paper the County Press , he said : “ It is by no means a huge rush , but lots of people will have been waiting to travel .
“ There are lots of second home owners and people who come here regularly , I imagine , for Christmas who have been waiting to see if they are allowed to travel and they are now booking .
`` There has been a small rise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” He said it was not the job of the ferry companies to restrict movement — despite some complaints from locals that crossings be for essential travel only — but said the Island is reliant on visitors “ respecting the rules ” .
He said each ferry operates strict social distancing on board .
Cllr Stewart urged people not to visit the Island unless they have a “ decent need ” to do so .
He said only those with family on the Island or second homes should consider travelling , with everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you don ’ t need to come , don ’ t come , ” Mr Stewart said , adding that the council is working up plans to station Covid support officers at the ferry terminals .
“ They will be providing leaflets and information to people , encouraging them if they haven ’ t got a decent need to come over , not to come.
” Mr Stewart said , while he was supportive of local Island businesses who need the trade after a difficult year , people should try to remain local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we don ’ t want to do anything that will increase the rate , because we all lose that way , ” he said .
Chief executive of Visit Isle of Wight , Mr Myles , said : “ We are not actively promoting saying that people from various different tiers should visit the Island , but travel the ‘ Wight ’ way and do the right thing .
“ People from Tier Two , if they are coming should be adhering to Tier Two restrictions.
” The organisation said it is working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel .
Mr Myles said : “ We are not saying stop and don ’ t come , but we are not actively rushing out there and saying come and visit the Island .
“ But our businesses are here and they need that support , so come and enjoy them , there ’ s no problem with that whatsoever.
” Anyone travelling from a Tier Two area has to follow the same rules as the area they came from , including a ban on household mixing indoors .
Those living under Tier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel to any Tier One region .

Cornwall, the Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly are the only three regions to have been placed in Tier One — which allows households to mix indoors up to a maximum of six people, and pubs can serve alcohol without the need for a 'substantial meal'.
This has led to concerns people may travel here to take advantage of looser coronavirus restrictions in Tier One.
Keith Greenfield, chief executive of Wightlink, said this year’s Christmas crossings would be quieter, but ferry bookings are rising post-lockdown.
Our sister paper the County Press, he said: “It is by no means a huge rush, but lots of people will have been waiting to travel.
“There are lots of second home owners and people who come here regularly, I imagine, for Christmas who have been waiting to see if they are allowed to travel and they are now booking.
"There has been a small rise, but it’s not dramatic.”
He said it was not the job of the ferry companies to restrict movement — despite some complaints from locals that crossings be for essential travel only — but said the Island is reliant on visitors “respecting the rules”.
He said each ferry operates strict social distancing on board.
Cllr Stewart urged people not to visit the Island unless they have a “decent need” to do so. He said only those with family on the Island or second homes should consider travelling, with everyone else encouraged to wait.
“If you don’t need to come, don’t come,” Mr Stewart said, adding that the council is working up plans to station Covid support officers at the ferry terminals.
“They will be providing leaflets and information to people, encouraging them if they haven’t got a decent need to come over, not to come.”
Mr Stewart said, while he was supportive of local Island businesses who need the trade after a difficult year, people should try to remain local.
“We are very concerned that we don’t want to do anything that will increase the rate, because we all lose that way,” he said.
Chief executive of Visit Isle of Wight, Mr Myles, said: “We are not actively promoting saying that people from various different tiers should visit the Island, but travel the ‘Wight’ way and do the right thing.
“People from Tier Two, if they are coming should be adhering to Tier Two restrictions.”
The organisation said it is working with the local council to promote safe travel.
Mr Myles said: “We are not saying stop and don’t come, but we are not actively rushing out there and saying come and visit the Island.
“But our businesses are here and they need that support, so come and enjoy them, there’s no problem with that whatsoever.”
Anyone travelling from a Tier Two area has to follow the same rules as the area they came from, including a ban on household mixing indoors.
Those living under Tier Three restrictions have been asked not to travel to any Tier One region.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Still set to snow? Met Office gives updated forecast

DESPITE temperatures dropping this week , Hampshire residents might not be set to see snow .
As previously reported on Monday , the Met Office had forecast hail , sleet and snow across the county .
But now , weather experts are predicting that the rest of the week will be dry and cold .
Tomorrow , temperatures are set to plummet , with a high of 6° and a low of 3° .
Further into the weekend and the start of next week , temperatures are sat to fall to -1° in some areas .
Today is set to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout the day .
But the weather is set to dry up later tonight and remain that way until next week .
Steve Ramsdale , Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office , said : “ Although we ’ re going to see a few days with colder conditions , we shouldn ’ t be surprised that the start of winter brings a brief spell of wintry weather .
Some parts of the UK , especially northern hills , may see snow , but for many , this will only be short-lived .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will issue warnings accordingly .
”

As previously reported on Monday, the Met Office had forecast hail, sleet and snow across the county.
But now, weather experts are predicting that the rest of the week will be dry and cold.
Today, temperatures are set to plummet, with a high of 6° and a low of 3°.
Further into the weekend and the start of next week, temperatures are sat to fall to -1° in some areas.
But the weather is set to dry up later tonight and remain that way until next week.
Steve Ramsdale, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Although we’re going to see a few days with colder conditions, we shouldn’t be surprised that the start of winter brings a brief spell of wintry weather.
"Some parts of the UK, especially northern hills, may see snow, but for many, this will only be short-lived. We’ll be monitoring the forecast and we will issue warnings accordingly.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Kuti's Brasserie, Southampton,  celebrates British Curry Day

FANCY an onion bhaji with your curry ?
Well now there 's even more of an excuse – raising cash for charity !
This is the plan by Southampton restaurant Kuti ’ s Brasserie , which will be donating all money raised from bhaji sales to help fight cancer .
The drive is taking place today as part of British Curry Day .
Owner Kuti Miah , who employed chancellor Rishi Sunak as a waiter during his student days , will be donating profits to Cancer Research UK in memory of his late friend Shab Uddin , who owned the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Miah said : “ Shab was a great friend and he worked very hard .
`` We worked together in Southampton and when I opened my first restaurant he helped me out.
” The donation is part of the ‘ Back The Bhaji ’ campaign launched by Asian restaurants sector magazine Spice Business .
The campaign aims to celebrate the curry industry post-lockdown and commemorate the pioneers that have made the industry such an integral part of British society .
Enam Ali , publisher of Spice Business said : “ Tragically we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s first curry restaurateurs , who are now elderly with severe underlying health issues , to the pandemic.
” “ These people came to a strange foreign land at the invitation of the British government and through their own endeavours and willingness to work anti -social hours – often enduring blatant racism from post pub closing time drunks – built a special industry , which is now an integral part of British society.
” Mr Miah said : “ Curry is n't just Indian anymore - the Chicken tikka masala is the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very proud to be British , to cook with British produce and of the revenue the curry industry brings to the UK economy . ''
It is hoped British Curry Day will become an annual fixture in the culinary calendar which will support the sector and raise money for good causes .

This is the plan by Southampton restaurant Kuti’s Brasserie, which will be donating all money raised from bhaji sales to help fight cancer.
The drive is taking place today as part of British Curry Day.
Owner Kuti Miah, who employed chancellor Rishi Sunak as a waiter during his student days, will be donating profits to Cancer Research UK in memory of his late friend Shab Uddin, who owned the Momtaz restaurant in Boscombe, Bournemouth.
Mr Miah said: “Shab was a great friend and he worked very hard.
"We worked together in Southampton and when I opened my first restaurant he helped me out.”
Kuti Miah
The donation is part of the ‘Back The Bhaji’ campaign launched by Asian restaurants sector magazine Spice Business.
The campaign aims to celebrate the curry industry post-lockdown and commemorate the pioneers that have made the industry such an integral part of British society.
Enam Ali, publisher of Spice Business said: “Tragically we are losing many of the country’s first curry restaurateurs, who are now elderly with severe underlying health issues, to the pandemic.”
“These people came to a strange foreign land at the invitation of the British government and through their own endeavours and willingness to work anti -social hours – often enduring blatant racism from post pub closing time drunks – built a special industry, which is now an integral part of British society.”
Mr Miah said: “Curry isn't just Indian anymore - the Chicken tikka masala is the UK's favourite dish!
"I'm very proud to be British, to cook with British produce and of the revenue the curry industry brings to the UK economy."
It is hoped British Curry Day will become an annual fixture in the culinary calendar which will support the sector and raise money for good causes.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Man admits punching Louise Smith but says he did not murder her

A MAN accused of the `` brutal '' murder of 16-year-old Louise Smith has told a court he punched her repeatedly in the face but had not intended to kill her .
Shane Mays , of Havant , Hampshire , is on trial at Winchester Crown Court charged with the murder of Louise Smith who disappeared on VE Day .
Her body was found `` defiled and burned '' 13 days later in woodland at Havant Thicket .
She had suffered multiple blows to her head .
The 30-year-old told the court that Louise had started living with him and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mays , at the end of April .
He said she had been happy at first but arguments had started between them over chores at the flat and about her smoking cannabis with her boyfriend , Bradley Kercher .
After being shown a Snapchat video of him tickling Louise 's feet , he said he was not flirting with her and said it was a `` playful '' act that he would do with `` all the kids that came to stay '' .
He said that Louise had wanted to refer to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and dad '' and he `` sometimes '' regarded himself as like her father as she had lived with them previously .
The defendant said that , on May 8 , Louise asked him to walk with her to pick up some clothes from a friend .
He said she led him to woodland at Havant Thicket where he claimed she attacked him with a stick after she asked him about smoking cannabis again .
Mays said : `` She was getting all aggressive about it and started shouting , raising her voice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to starting taking weed again , I said 'You do not want to end up like your mum ' .
`` She picked up this big stick and started hitting me on the side with it .
`` I grabbed the branch off her , threw it on the floor , then I punched her .
`` The first punch she was standing , the second punch she went down . ''
When asked if there had been blood on her face , he replied : `` I heard cracks but I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he continued punching her on the ground and added : `` I was angry and I lost control of myself . ''
He continued : `` I got up and began to walk away , I looked back and I heard her moaning and I carried on walking . ''
Mays denied sexually assaulting Louise or burning her body and added : `` I did not kill her . ''
The defendant said he told his mother and the police that he had been with Louise to Emsworth because he thought that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he only remembered the violent incident with Louise when he was in prison after he was arrested for her murder .
Mays also told the court that he left school at the age of 15 and had previously worked as a mechanic , in factories and laying asphalt but had not worked since he was 24 .
He said that he played video games on his Xbox console for nine hours a day playing games such as Call Of Duty , Need For Speed and Fortnite .
He said that he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past between the ages of 18 and 29 .

Shane Mays, of Havant, Hampshire, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court charged with the murder of Louise Smith who disappeared on VE Day.
Her body was found "defiled and burned" 13 days later in woodland at Havant Thicket.
She had suffered multiple blows to her head.
The 30-year-old told the court that Louise had started living with him and his wife Chazlynn Jayne (CJ) Mays, at the end of April.
He said she had been happy at first but arguments had started between them over chores at the flat and about her smoking cannabis with her boyfriend, Bradley Kercher.
After being shown a Snapchat video of him tickling Louise's feet, he said he was not flirting with her and said it was a "playful" act that he would do with "all the kids that came to stay".
He said that Louise had wanted to refer to his wife and him as "mum and dad" and he "sometimes" regarded himself as like her father as she had lived with them previously.
The defendant said that, on May 8, Louise asked him to walk with her to pick up some clothes from a friend.
He said she led him to woodland at Havant Thicket where he claimed she attacked him with a stick after she asked him about smoking cannabis again.
Mays said: "She was getting all aggressive about it and started shouting, raising her voice.
"She said about she wanted to starting taking weed again, I said 'You do not want to end up like your mum'.
"She picked up this big stick and started hitting me on the side with it.
"I grabbed the branch off her, threw it on the floor, then I punched her.
"The first punch she was standing, the second punch she went down."
When asked if there had been blood on her face, he replied: "I heard cracks but I am not sure."
He described how he continued punching her on the ground and added: "I was angry and I lost control of myself."
He continued: "I got up and began to walk away, I looked back and I heard her moaning and I carried on walking."
Mays denied sexually assaulting Louise or burning her body and added: "I did not kill her."
The defendant said he told his mother and the police that he had been with Louise to Emsworth because he thought that was where he had been.
He added that he only remembered the violent incident with Louise when he was in prison after he was arrested for her murder.
Mays also told the court that he left school at the age of 15 and had previously worked as a mechanic, in factories and laying asphalt but had not worked since he was 24.
He said that he played video games on his Xbox console for nine hours a day playing games such as Call Of Duty, Need For Speed and Fortnite.
He said that he had used cannabis, cocaine and ecstasy in the past between the ages of 18 and 29.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Cat injured after being shot with steel ball

A NEW Forest family have been left horrified after their beloved cat was left mutilated following a “ barbaric ” attack .
The Nicholson family have told of their horror after discovering that their pet cat , Beans , had been shot in the head with a 15mm steel ball .
The 10-year-old cat has been left with a horrific injury and a fractured skull following the attack on November 27 and vets were forced to remove his eye .
It is believed the metal ball was shot from a slingshot or small cross-bow type device .
The family from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find the perpetrator .
Beans had come “ staggering ” home on Friday evening and his owners discovered the tabby cat had sustained a serious injury to his head .
Beans was rushed to Seadown Vet and he was taken in for emergency surgery .
During the surgery , they were forced to remove his eye as it could not be saved .
But they were stunned to find a 15mm steel ball buried in Beans ’ skull .
Peter Nicholson , Beans ’ owner , told the Daily Echo : “ He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had also sustained a fractured skull in the mindless attack .
“ We live in a small village in the New Forest and can not believe how someone could want to shoot , and clearly try to kill someone ’ s pet .
“ Whether you love cats or hate them , there can be no excuse for such a barbaric and cruel act .
The matter was reported to the police and the RSPCA who are both keen to receive any further information if anyone can shed any light on who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ This person must be stopped before they injure , or kill another pet or even a cause harm to a person.
” Fortunately , Beans was able to return home and is now on a slow road to recovery .
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said : “ We hope that Beans is making a good recovery after his ordeal .
It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals .
“ Cats and wildlife are sadly more susceptible to these incidents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open with no one to protect them .
“ We ’ d encourage anyone with information about the person who did this to contact us on 0300 1234 999.
” A spokesperson from Hampshire Police confirmed they are aware of the incident .
They said : `` We can confirm that an incident was reported to police at 1.36pm on Sunday 29 November after a cat was attacked with a small marble or steel ball near to Chinham Road .
`` The incident occurred sometime between 9pm and 9.20pm on Friday 27 November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a result .
`` Anyone with information is asked to call 101 , quoting 44200461683 .
Alternatively , you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . ''

The Nicholson family have told of their horror after discovering that their pet cat, Beans, had been shot in the head with a 15mm steel ball.
The 10-year-old cat has been left with a horrific injury and a fractured skull following the attack on November 27 and vets were forced to remove his eye.
It is believed the metal ball was shot from a slingshot or small cross-bow type device.
The family from Bartley are now appealing for help to find the perpetrator.
Beans had come “staggering” home on Friday evening and his owners discovered the tabby cat had sustained a serious injury to his head.
Beans was rushed to Seadown Vet and he was taken in for emergency surgery.
During the surgery, they were forced to remove his eye as it could not be saved.
But they were stunned to find a 15mm steel ball buried in Beans’ skull.
Peter Nicholson, Beans’ owner, told the Daily Echo: “He was incredibly lucky to have survived as he had also sustained a fractured skull in the mindless attack.
“We live in a small village in the New Forest and cannot believe how someone could want to shoot, and clearly try to kill someone’s pet.
“Whether you love cats or hate them, there can be no excuse for such a barbaric and cruel act. The matter was reported to the police and the RSPCA who are both keen to receive any further information if anyone can shed any light on who may have perpetrated such a horrible act.
“This person must be stopped before they injure, or kill another pet or even a cause harm to a person.”
Fortunately, Beans was able to return home and is now on a slow road to recovery.
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We hope that Beans is making a good recovery after his ordeal. It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals.
“Cats and wildlife are sadly more susceptible to these incidents simply because they are out in the open with no one to protect them.
“We’d encourage anyone with information about the person who did this to contact us on 0300 1234 999.”
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police confirmed they are aware of the incident.
They said: "We can confirm that an incident was reported to police at 1.36pm on Sunday 29 November after a cat was attacked with a small marble or steel ball near to Chinham Road.
"The incident occurred sometime between 9pm and 9.20pm on Friday 27 November, with the cat suffering significant injuries as a result.
"Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting 44200461683. Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Drink drivers, drug offences and assault: Some of the cases heard at Southampton Magistrates'

The following cases were heard at Southampton Magistrates ’ Court ... LUKASZ MAREK BUNIEK , 38 , of Portswood Road , Southampton .
Pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of taking a vehicle without consent .
Fined £400 .
Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £40 and court costs of £621 .
PEDRO GONCALVES , 31 , of Suffolk Avenue , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to drink driving and driving without a licence .
Committed to prison for 12 months suspended for 12 months and ordered to carry out 120 hours unpaid work .
Also disqualified from driving for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of £500 .
BEAU DONALD THOMAS BUTCHERS , 20 , of Black Swan Buildings , Winchester .
Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and failing to pay for a train ticket .
Fined £175 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £32 .
VICTORIA MORROW , 37 , of Northam Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating and one count of using threatening and abusive language .
Handed community order and ordered to pay £50 compensation .
Also ordered to pay £40 court costs .
LIAM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Close , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to assault by beating , damaging a mobile phone and damaging a bedroom door .
Handed a restraining order banning him from contacting his victim .
Also handed a community order and ordered to pay compensation of £250 .
Ordered to pay court costs of £300 .
FARAG FATAHE , 42 , of Padwell Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to driving without insurance .
Driving record endorsed with six points .
Fined £300 .
Ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 court costs .
GEORGE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to speeding .
Driving record endorsed with three points .
Fined £100 and ordered to pay £34 victim surcharge .
HEIDI LOUISE JONES , 32 , of Conduct Gardens , Eastleigh .
Pleaded guilty to speeding .
Driving record endorsed with three points .
Fined £68 and ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge .
BETH THORNE , 51 , of Harney Hayes Lane , Cadnam .
Pleaded guilty to speeding .
Driving record endorsed with three points .
Fined £68 points and ordered to pay £32 victim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of no fixed address .
Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating .
Fined £500 .
Ordered to pay £500 compensation and £85 court costs .
PHILIP DAVID MCKEON , 42 , of Coxford Road , Southampton .
Pleaded guilty to drink driving .
Disqualified from driving for 24 months .
Fined £450 .
Ordered to pay £45 victim surcharge and £85 court costs .

LUKASZ MAREK BUNIEK, 38, of Portswood Road, Southampton. Pleaded not guilty but was found guilty of taking a vehicle without consent. Fined £400. Ordered to pay victim surcharge of £40 and court costs of £621.
PEDRO GONCALVES, 31, of Suffolk Avenue, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to drink driving and driving without a licence. Committed to prison for 12 months suspended for 12 months and ordered to carry out 120 hours unpaid work. Also disqualified from driving for 28 months. Ordered to pay comepensation of £500.
BEAU DONALD THOMAS BUTCHERS, 20, of Black Swan Buildings, Winchester. Pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and failing to pay for a train ticket. Fined £175 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £32.
VICTORIA MORROW, 37, of Northam Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating and one count of using threatening and abusive language. Handed community order and ordered to pay £50 compensation. Also ordered to pay £40 court costs.
LIAM DWYER, 23, of Pat Bear Close, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to assault by beating, damaging a mobile phone and damaging a bedroom door. Handed a restraining order banning him from contacting his victim. Also handed a community order and ordered to pay compensation of £250. Ordered to pay court costs of £300.
FARAG FATAHE, 42, of Padwell Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to driving without insurance. Driving record endorsed with six points. Fined £300. Ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.
GEORGE IONUT CIOROIU, 25, of Devonshire Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to speeding. Driving record endorsed with three points. Fined £100 and ordered to pay £34 victim surcharge.
HEIDI LOUISE JONES, 32, of Conduct Gardens, Eastleigh. Pleaded guilty to speeding. Driving record endorsed with three points. Fined £68 and ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge.
BETH THORNE, 51, of Harney Hayes Lane, Cadnam. Pleaded guilty to speeding. Driving record endorsed with three points. Fined £68 points and ordered to pay £32 victim surcharge.
JOSEPH MURPHY, 40, of no fixed address. Pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating. Fined £500. Ordered to pay £500 compensation and £85 court costs.
PHILIP DAVID MCKEON, 42, of Coxford Road, Southampton. Pleaded guilty to drink driving. Disqualified from driving for 24 months. Fined £450. Ordered to pay £45 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--PS5 and XSX hard to find  - Christmas presents of the past

SHOPPING for Christmas presents this year is going to be very different , but that wo n't stop youngsters from @ @ @ @ @ toys .
There 's little doubt that almost every child will have either an Xbox @ @ @ @ @ 5 at the top of their list - although finding stock may prove a difficult @ @ @ @ @ n't a new thing - in fact , it 's become somewhat of a tradition @ @ @ @ @ flown off shelves at Christmas time , often adding to the hype surrounding them .
@ @ @ @ @ Mr Potato Head to Furby - we list some of our favorites below .
In @ @ @ @ @ , we ’ re asking our readers to vote for their favorite so we can @ @ @ @ @ Christmas gift of all time .
Having your say is easy .
Simply click on @ @ @ @ @ favorite toy .
The more votes it gets , the higher it climbs up the @ @

There's little doubt that almost every child will have either an Xbox Series X or a PlayStation 5 at the top of their list - although finding stock may prove a difficult task.
But this isn't a new thing - in fact, it's become somewhat of a tradition. For decades must-have toys flown off shelves at Christmas time, often adding to the hype surrounding them.
From Barbie to Fingerlings, Mr Potato Head to Furby - we list some of our favorites below.
In the name of festive fun, we’re asking our readers to vote for their favorite so we can see which is the best-loved Christmas gift of all time.
Having your say is easy. Simply click on the vote number of your favorite toy. The more votes it gets, the higher it climbs up the list.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Southampton man abandoned snake at Poole barbershop

A MAN who abandoned a snake at a barbershop has been banned from owning animals .
Dominic Ash left a boa constrictor to suffer after dumping it at a former barbershop .
The 31-year-old had left the two-metre-long reptile in a tank with no water .
It was found by police lying in “ sludge ” at the Office Barber Shop in Ashley Road , Poole .
Following a successful prosecution by the RSPCA , Ash has been banned from owning animals for five years .
Ash , whose address was given as Sullivan Road , Southampton , was charged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animal by failing to provide constant access to an adequate supply of clean fresh drinking water .
He had been due to appear before magistrates last January but he failed to attend and a warrant was issued for his arrest .
At a subsequent court appearance he pleaded guilty to the offence which took place between May 31 and June 5 last year .
RSPCA inspector Jo Story investigated the incident for the animal welfare charity .
She said : “ Police gained entry to the shop and once inside I could see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inside it .
There was no water source and a sludge at the bottom of the vivarium .
“ There was nowhere for the snake to hide.
” A vet examined the snake to find it was dehydrated and to check for any other health problems .
Details of the case were revealed when Ash appeared at Poole Magistrates Court on November 18 .
As well as being banned from animals he was also fined £200 .
The bench further ordered Ash to pay £200 court costs and a £32 victim surcharge .

Dominic Ash left a boa constrictor to suffer after dumping it at a former barbershop.
The 31-year-old had left the two-metre-long reptile in a tank with no water.
It was found by police lying in “sludge” at the Office Barber Shop in Ashley Road, Poole.
Following a successful prosecution by the RSPCA, Ash has been banned from owning animals for five years.
Ash, whose address was given as Sullivan Road, Southampton, was charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal by failing to provide constant access to an adequate supply of clean fresh drinking water.
He had been due to appear before magistrates last January but he failed to attend and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
At a subsequent court appearance he pleaded guilty to the offence which took place between May 31 and June 5 last year.
RSPCA inspector Jo Story investigated the incident for the animal welfare charity.
She said: “Police gained entry to the shop and once inside I could see the large vivarium with a common boa inside it. There was no water source and a sludge at the bottom of the vivarium.
“There was nowhere for the snake to hide.”
A vet examined the snake to find it was dehydrated and to check for any other health problems.
Details of the case were revealed when Ash appeared at Poole Magistrates Court on November 18.
As well as being banned from animals he was also fined £200.
The bench further ordered Ash to pay £200 court costs and a £32 victim surcharge.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Fury over theft of Christmas lights equipment in Totton

THIEVES have stolen Christmas lights equipment in a Hampshire town for the second year running .
Volunteers from Totton 's Christmas lights committee were checking the fixtures on the town 's main roundabout when they discovered that electrical cables had been taken .
The `` Grinch-style '' theft has sparked widespread anger , with one social media user describing the culprits as `` mindless imbeciles '' .
Cllr Neville Penman , a member of the committee , added : `` Someone has cut the wires on the boards and stolen leads .
“ We have CCTV on the roundabout so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forest District Council can help but we now have to go out and buy more cables , lights and fittings .
It is so disheartening . ''
Last year thieves stole two star-shaped motifs that had been left beside a lamppost shortly before they were due to be put up .
The latest theft has been condemned on social media .
One person posted : `` In a very difficult year this is unbelievable .
Efforts by a dedicated few to bring so much pleasure to everyone in Totton , only to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media user added : `` Somebody is being like the Grinch . ''
Meanwhile a fundraising campaign has been launched to pay for the upkeep of the lights and a new artificial tree .
Writing on the campaign 's JustGiving page Cllr Dave Hills says : `` Every year the lights committee puts on an excellent display for people in the town .
`` Volunteers give up many hours of their own time to maintain and install the decorations and take them all down again once Christmas is over .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put up Silent Soldiers and banners for Remembrance Day .
`` However , none of this is cheap .
Not only do the lights themselves cost money there are loads of other things that need to be paid for to ensure the display goes ahead . ''
Cllr Hills says the volunteers have to repair and maintain the decorations as well as buying new ones .
He adds : `` They have just purchased a new , artificial tree which will look great and is good for the environment but has cost a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where we , the people of Totton can help .
`` Money is obviously very tight for us all but if you can afford to make a donation , however small , the committee will be very , very grateful . ''
To donate go online and visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/xmas-lights .

Volunteers from Totton's Christmas lights committee were checking the fixtures on the town's main roundabout when they discovered that electrical cables had been taken.
The "Grinch-style" theft has sparked widespread anger, with one social media user describing the culprits as "mindless imbeciles".
Cllr Neville Penman, a member of the committee, added: "Someone has cut the wires on the boards and stolen leads.
“We have CCTV on the roundabout so I'm going to see if New Forest District Council can help but we now have to go out and buy more cables, lights and fittings. It is so disheartening."
Last year thieves stole two star-shaped motifs that had been left beside a lamppost shortly before they were due to be put up.
The latest theft has been condemned on social media.
One person posted: "In a very difficult year this is unbelievable. Efforts by a dedicated few to bring so much pleasure to everyone in Totton, only to be trashed by heartless individuals."
Another social media user added: "Somebody is being like the Grinch."
Meanwhile a fundraising campaign has been launched to pay for the upkeep of the lights and a new artificial tree.
Writing on the campaign's JustGiving page Cllr Dave Hills says: "Every year the lights committee puts on an excellent display for people in the town.
"Volunteers give up many hours of their own time to maintain and install the decorations and take them all down again once Christmas is over.
"The team also help the Royal British Legion put up Silent Soldiers and banners for Remembrance Day.
"However, none of this is cheap. Not only do the lights themselves cost money there are loads of other things that need to be paid for to ensure the display goes ahead."
Cllr Hills says the volunteers have to repair and maintain the decorations as well as buying new ones.
He adds: "They have just purchased a new, artificial tree which will look great and is good for the environment but has cost a lot of money.
"This is where we, the people of Totton can help.
"Money is obviously very tight for us all but if you can afford to make a donation, however small, the committee will be very, very grateful."
To donate go online and visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/xmas-lights.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Craig David, a Spice Girl and The Fonz are among the celebrities you've been snapped with

IT 'S a first appearance in our celebrity column for one of Southampton 's favourite sons Craig David today .
@ @ @ @ @ Girls fame and I 'm Gon na Be ( 500 miles ) crooners The Proclaimers @ @ @ @ @ celebrity spotters .
There 's also room for The Fonz and Arg from TOWIE .
@ @ @ @ @ George among your celebrity selfies • James Ward-Prowse of Saints and England appears this week @ @ @ @ @ , these lovely snaps hark back to a time when you could snuggle up to @ @ @ @ @ selfie .
To be featured , submit your picture to dailyecho.co.uk/celebrityselfies

Singers Geri Halliwell of Spice Girls fame and I'm Gonna Be (500 miles) crooners The Proclaimers also appear with some local celebrity spotters.
There's also room for The Fonz and Arg from TOWIE.
Clearly not taken in 2020, these lovely snaps hark back to a time when you could snuggle up to your favourite celebrity for a selfie.
To be featured, submit your picture to dailyecho.co.uk/celebrityselfies


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Jennifer Saunders to star in Sister Act at Mayflower Theatre in 2021

CELEBRATED comedian Jennifer Saunders will lead the cast of Sister Act the Musical when it returns to Southampton next year .
She will reprise the role of Mother Superior at Mayflower Theatre from September 7 to 11 .
Jennifer joins Brenda Edwards as Deloris Van Cartier and Clive Rowe as Eddie Souther .
Based on the iconic movie , this sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship , sisterhood and music tells the hilarious story of the disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder .
Under protective custody she is hidden in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found – a convent !
Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior , Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own .
Sister Act is produced by Whoopi Goldberg who starred in the hit film version .
Jennifer Saunders is a multi award-winning actress , comedian and writer .
She is one half of the successful comedy duo French and Saunders and also wrote and starred in five series , three specials and a feature film of her hit comedy Absolutely Fabulous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public ’ s attention when she became a semi-finalist in the 2005 series of ITV1 ’ s The X Factor .
Since then , she has become one of the most sought-after leading ladies in musical theatre .
Her many West End and touring credits include We will Rock You and Chicago .
Clive Rowe won the Olivier award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for Guys and Dolls in the West End .
Tickets for the show are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811 .

She will reprise the role of Mother Superior at Mayflower Theatre from September 7 to 11.
Jennifer joins Brenda Edwards as Deloris Van Cartier and Clive Rowe as Eddie Souther.
Based on the iconic movie, this sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music tells the hilarious story of the disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.
Sister Act is produced by Whoopi Goldberg who starred in the hit film version.
Jennifer Saunders is a multi award-winning actress, comedian and writer. She is one half of the successful comedy duo French and Saunders and also wrote and starred in five series, three specials and a feature film of her hit comedy Absolutely Fabulous.
Brenda Edwards first came to the public’s attention when she became a semi-finalist in the 2005 series of ITV1’s The X Factor. Since then, she has become one of the most sought-after leading ladies in musical theatre. Her many West End and touring credits include We will Rock You and Chicago.
Clive Rowe won the Olivier award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for Guys and Dolls in the West End.
Tickets for the show are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--DVSA issues new guidance on driving tests in England

People learning to drive have seen huge disruption in driving lessons and tests amid the coronavirus pandemic .
All testing and lessons were suspended during the first UK-wide lockdown and again during the second English lockdown in November .
As England moves into a tiered system of restrictions , the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ( DVSA ) has issued new guidance on theory and practical driving tests and driving lessons .
From December 2 theory and practical driving tests are taking place in most parts of the country .
Theory tests have resumed across all regions , with social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at test centres .
Practical driving tests in Tier 1 and Tier 2 areas resume on Tuesday December 2 .
In Tier 3 areas they will restart on Thursday December 3 , with additional restrictions in place .
Anyone whose test was cancelled during the most recent lockdown will have to rebook .
If your theory test pass certificate has expired during the lockdown you will need to resit the theory test before taking a practical test .
Changes to driving tests in Tier 3 Driving tests in England ’ s Tier 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as usual , with pre-existing conditions in place ( see below ) .
However , in Tier 3 in England , the DVSA is reducing the number of tests an examiner can conduct each day .
From December 3 , examiners in Tier 3 will only carry out five tests per day , meaning some drivers may find their tests postponed or cancelled .
The DVSA is yet to clarify how this decision will be made or what will happen to those affected .
Any driver in Tier 3 who can not wear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also have their test delayed unless an examiner is willing to conduct the test with a candidate not wearing a mask .
To reduce the risk of spreading the Covid infection , the DVSA has introduced new rules around driving tests .
Candidates and instructors must wear a face covering unless they have a good reason not to .
These reasons include a physical or mental illness or impairment , or a disability that means you can not put on , wear or remove a face covering , or if putting on , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause you severe distress .
If you arrive for your test without a mask and do not have a valid reason for not wearing one your test will be cancelled .
Candidates should arrive at the test centre no more than five minutes before their test and should ensure that their car interior is cleaned before the examiner gets in .
This includes tidying away unnecessary items and wiping down all controls and touchpoints .
Windows in the test vehicle must be kept open at all times .
Instructors are not allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but can listen to post-test feedback as long as social distancing is maintained .
You should not attend for your test if you or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms or if you have been told by the track and trace service that you ’ ve been in contact with someone who has the virus .
If you can not attend at short notice due to these rules , you can change your driving test appointment free of charge via the DVSA website .
As with driving tests , driving lessons can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tier 3 regions .
However , learners must not take a lesson if they or anyone they have come into contact with has coronavirus symptoms .
Before and during lessons , learners and instructors should observe basic hygiene procedures and wear face coverings unless they have a good reason not to .
Instructors are expected to keep cars well ventilated and disinfect all controls and touchpoints between learners , and some may wear disposable gloves as well .

All testing and lessons were suspended during the first UK-wide lockdown and again during the second English lockdown in November.
As England moves into a tiered system of restrictions, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued new guidance on theory and practical driving tests and driving lessons.
When can driving tests restart?
From December 2 theory and practical driving tests are taking place in most parts of the country.
Theory tests have resumed across all regions, with social distancing and stricter hygiene measures in place at test centres.
Practical driving tests in Tier 1 and Tier 2 areas resume on Tuesday December 2.
In Tier 3 areas they will restart on Thursday December 3, with additional restrictions in place.
Anyone whose test was cancelled during the most recent lockdown will have to rebook.
If your theory test pass certificate has expired during the lockdown you will need to resit the theory test before taking a practical test.
Read more: The busiest and quietest driving test centres - easiest place to book a test revealed
Changes to driving tests in Tier 3
Driving tests in England’s Tier 1 and Tier 2 are being carried out as usual, with pre-existing conditions in place (see below).
However, in Tier 3 in England, the DVSA is reducing the number of tests an examiner can conduct each day. From December 3, examiners in Tier 3 will only carry out five tests per day, meaning some drivers may find their tests postponed or cancelled. The DVSA is yet to clarify how this decision will be made or what will happen to those affected.
Any driver in Tier 3 who cannot wear a face mask during their test may also have their test delayed unless an examiner is willing to conduct the test with a candidate not wearing a mask.
Driving test rules
To reduce the risk of spreading the Covid infection, the DVSA has introduced new rules around driving tests.
Candidates and instructors must wear a face covering unless they have a good reason not to. These reasons include a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering, or if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress. If you arrive for your test without a mask and do not have a valid reason for not wearing one your test will be cancelled.
Candidates should arrive at the test centre no more than five minutes before their test and should ensure that their car interior is cleaned before the examiner gets in. This includes tidying away unnecessary items and wiping down all controls and touchpoints.
Windows in the test vehicle must be kept open at all times.
Instructors are not allowed to remain in the car during the test but can listen to post-test feedback as long as social distancing is maintained.
You should not attend for your test if you or someone you live with has coronavirus symptoms or if you have been told by the track and trace service that you’ve been in contact with someone who has the virus.
If you cannot attend at short notice due to these rules, you can change your driving test appointment free of charge via the DVSA website.
Driving lessons
As with driving tests, driving lessons can now resume across England, including in Tier 3 regions.
However, learners must not take a lesson if they or anyone they have come into contact with has coronavirus symptoms.
Before and during lessons, learners and instructors should observe basic hygiene procedures and wear face coverings unless they have a good reason not to. Instructors are expected to keep cars well ventilated and disinfect all controls and touchpoints between learners, and some may wear disposable gloves as well.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Man died in Southampton hospital after kitesurfing accident

A KITESURFER died following an accident which left him with head and neck injuries , an inquest opening heard .
@ @ @ @ @ was taken to Southampton General Hospital on June 28 , this year , after the @ @ @ @ @ Brien , 50 , of Bath Road , Woolhampton , Reading , died just two @ @ @ @ @ whilst in hospital .
The 50-year-old was identified by Paul Sweeney , a kitesurfing instructor @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Brien at the time of the accident .
Forensic pathologist Dr Basil Purdu @ @ @ @ @ on Mr O ’ Brien ’ s body and gave the cause of death as @ @ @ @ @ head injury .
An inquest into the death was opened on Tuesday at Winchester Coroner @ @ @ @ @ coroner Jason Pegg .
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to take @ @ @ @ @ next year .

Nicholas James O’Brien was taken to Southampton General Hospital on June 28, this year, after the incident.
Mr O’Brien, 50, of Bath Road, Woolhampton, Reading, died just two days later on June 30 whilst in hospital.
The 50-year-old was identified by Paul Sweeney, a kitesurfing instructor, who was with Mr O’Brien at the time of the accident.
Forensic pathologist Dr Basil Purdu carried out a post mortem on Mr O’Brien’s body and gave the cause of death as delayed effects of neck and head injury.
An inquest into the death was opened on Tuesday at Winchester Coroner’s Court by area coroner Jason Pegg.
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to take place on June 9, next year.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Southampton man who died of a drug overdose found unresponsive by family

A SOUTHAMPTON man who died of a drug overdose was found unresponsive by family members , an inquest opening has @ @ @ @ @ McCann , 47 , was discovered at his home by his family and a friend @ @ @ @ @ , on September 11 , this year .
An inquest into his death was opened @ @ @ @ @ Jason Pegg at Winchester Coroner ’ s Court .
Following McCann ’ s death a @ @ @ @ @ and a cause of death has been given as dihydrocodeine overdose .
Mr Pegg adjourned @ @ @ @ @ inquest to take place on August 10 , next year .

Michael Neil McCann, 47, was discovered at his home by his family and a friend in Chiltern Green, Southampton, on September 11, this year.
An inquest into his death was opened on Tuesday by area coroner Jason Pegg at Winchester Coroner’s Court.
Following McCann’s death a post mortem was carried out and a cause of death has been given as dihydrocodeine overdose.
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to take place on August 10, next year.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--PHOTOS: These Hampshire newborns spent some of their early life under lockdown

THESE five little newborns have started life during lockdown and are bringing joy to their families during a strange year .
We have a longed for rainbow tot born after seven miscarriages and one girl whose parents were told she was a boy until the very late stages of their pregnancy .
• These bouncing babies were born in Southampton or Winchester in recent weeks • These bundles of joy have been born in Hampshire • Meet more than 100 Hampshire babies born in lockdown Some were early , some were late to the party , but all are very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent weeks at Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton or at Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester .
To feature , click here • HARLEI Lynne Rose Cooper is a tiny miracle after seven miscarriages .
Daughter of Claire and Kim , she weighed in at 7lbs 15oz at Princess Anne Hospital on May 7 .
• EXPECTING a boy , Anastasia Blankson and Dale Ford from Hamble were blessed with a little girl 6lbs 3oz Ada-Rose Violet Ford , born on November 9 .
• ELI Terrance Tobias Ip was nine days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13 .
The 7lbs 9oz Millbrook lad is a son for Nicola McLennan and Jordan Ip .
• MEET little Roman Kitcher , the first born son of Sophie Barber and Connor Kitcher from Holbury .
He weighed 7lbs 7oz on September 25 .
• LOGAN Barry Richard Taylor came into the world on September 20 , weighing 7lbs 3oz .
He ’ s a son for Aimee and Tom from Eastleigh .

We have a longed for rainbow tot born after seven miscarriages and one girl whose parents were told she was a boy until the very late stages of their pregnancy.
Some were early, some were late to the party, but all are very much-loved.
They came into the world in recent weeks at Princess Anne Hospital in Southampton or at Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.
To feature, click here


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Share pictures of your festive pets with us

DOGS in Santa hats and jumpers , and cats hiding in Christmas trees .
We want Daily Echo readers pictures @ @ @ @ @ the festive spirit .
We 'd love to see your photos of your cat , @ @ @ @ @ , parrot etc in their Christmas outfits .
Does your gecko have a Santa hat @ @ @ @ @ of tinsel ?
Do you have a mouse who loves carols or a guinea pig @ @ @ @ @ his love for baubles .
We 'd love to hear all about it .
It @ @ @ @ @ festive and will be a great addition to our regular Saturday pets column throughout December @ @ @ @ @ !
Just fill in the form below and we will feature as many of your @ @ @ @ @

We want Daily Echo readers pictures of their pets getting in the festive spirit.
We'd love to see your photos of your cat, dog, horse, rabbit, parrot etc in their Christmas outfits.
Does your gecko have a Santa hat or is your snake fond of tinsel? Do you have a mouse who loves carols or a guinea pig who just can't hide his love for baubles. We'd love to hear all about it.
It will make us feel more festive and will be a great addition to our regular Saturday pets column throughout December.
All pets are welcome! Just fill in the form below and we will feature as many of your beloved pets as possible.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--MP slams Facebook over anti-vaccine "fake news"

The spreading of `` fake news '' on social media poses the greatest risk to the UK 's way out of the golobal coronavirus pandemic , a British MP has warned .
Former DCMS Select Committee chair Damian Collins warned lawmakers that people spreading misleading information about the vaccine pose “ one of the clearest examples of real-world harms that fake news can cause ” .
His comments followed news that the UK became the first country in the world to approve the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine .
The MP for Folkestone and Hythe drew upon a recent study by campaign group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ websites spreading health disinformation on Facebook have almost four times as many estimated views as content shared from the website of the world ’ s 10 leading health institutions .
“ Here Facebook ’ s own algorithms are pushing anti-vaxx content over authentic health information , ” he said .
“ The impact of this is declining trust in the vaccine.
” Speaking more widely about imminent regulation , Mr Collins said it is “ time for the tech sector to catch up ” and that it should not be up to tech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zuckerberg to decide which content should be allowed on social networks .
Damian Collins took aim at Facebook as the International Grand Committee convened virtually .
Picture : PA Wire He also suggested there be international rules to keep an eye on how tech giants “ behave ” .
“ It shouldn ’ t be left to people like Mark Zuckerberg to determine when Instagram should remove images that could lead teenagers to self-harm , how quickly a company should respond to a terrorist attack being broadcast on Facebook Live or whether it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call for the beheading of public servants on his Facebook page , ” the MP said .
“ Facebook says it removes 95 % of harmful content before anyone reports it but there has never been any independent scrutiny of that and they frequently deny academic researchers the opportunity to do so .
“ There needs to be external auditing of how effectively they remove harmful content .
He added : “ We should remember too that the real harm we are regulating here has not been caused by people crossing the line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that speech can cause others .
“ ( It ’ s ) a business model that makes money by amplifying content based on engagement regardless of whether it is harmful or not .
“ Freedom of reach is not the same as freedom of speech.
” Mr Collins is one of the founding members of the International Grand Committee , a group of cross-party elected representatives from around the world that scrutinises efforts by social media to combat harmful content , hate speech and electoral interference online .
Lord David Puttnam and Baroness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lords Select Committee on Digital Technologies and Democracy , were also in attendance virtually , alongside lawmakers from other countries including the US , Canada , India , and Singapore .
“ One of the greatest risks to the success of this programme is anti-vaccine disinformation warning people not to take it , ” Mr Collins explained .
“ I think it is really important that there are some international rules around the way companies behave .
They are global companies .
“ The local legislation may be different in different countries around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should expect them to work to I think should be consistent .
He added : “ In financial services we created those sorts of international frameworks… I think it ’ s really important there is something like that for the tech sector .
“ ( That way ) we ’ ve got good laws in our own countries but also those companies know they can ’ t get away with allowing things to happen in other parts of the world where maybe the regulations aren ’ t as tight .
”

Former DCMS Select Committee chair Damian Collins warned lawmakers that people spreading misleading information about the vaccine pose “one of the clearest examples of real-world harms that fake news can cause”.
His comments followed news that the UK became the first country in the world to approve the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.
The MP for Folkestone and Hythe drew upon a recent study by campaign group Avaaz, which found the top 10 websites spreading health disinformation on Facebook have almost four times as many estimated views as content shared from the website of the world’s 10 leading health institutions.
“Here Facebook’s own algorithms are pushing anti-vaxx content over authentic health information,” he said.
“The impact of this is declining trust in the vaccine.”
Speaking more widely about imminent regulation, Mr Collins said it is “time for the tech sector to catch up” and that it should not be up to tech bosses such as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg to decide which content should be allowed on social networks.
Damian Collins took aim at Facebook as the International Grand Committee convened virtually. Picture: PA Wire
He also suggested there be international rules to keep an eye on how tech giants “behave”.
“It shouldn’t be left to people like Mark Zuckerberg to determine when Instagram should remove images that could lead teenagers to self-harm, how quickly a company should respond to a terrorist attack being broadcast on Facebook Live or whether it’s okay for Steve Bannon to call for the beheading of public servants on his Facebook page,” the MP said.
“Facebook says it removes 95% of harmful content before anyone reports it but there has never been any independent scrutiny of that and they frequently deny academic researchers the opportunity to do so.
“There needs to be external auditing of how effectively they remove harmful content.
He added: “We should remember too that the real harm we are regulating here has not been caused by people crossing the line between freedom of speech and the harm that speech can cause others.
“(It’s) a business model that makes money by amplifying content based on engagement regardless of whether it is harmful or not.
“Freedom of reach is not the same as freedom of speech.”
Mr Collins is one of the founding members of the International Grand Committee, a group of cross-party elected representatives from around the world that scrutinises efforts by social media to combat harmful content, hate speech and electoral interference online.
Lord David Puttnam and Baroness Beeban Kidron, from the House of Lords Select Committee on Digital Technologies and Democracy, were also in attendance virtually, alongside lawmakers from other countries including the US, Canada, India, and Singapore.
“One of the greatest risks to the success of this programme is anti-vaccine disinformation warning people not to take it,” Mr Collins explained.
“I think it is really important that there are some international rules around the way companies behave. They are global companies.
“The local legislation may be different in different countries around the world, but the standards we should expect them to work to I think should be consistent.
He added: “In financial services we created those sorts of international frameworks… I think it’s really important there is something like that for the tech sector.
“(That way) we’ve got good laws in our own countries but also those companies know they can’t get away with allowing things to happen in other parts of the world where maybe the regulations aren’t as tight.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Free screening of Back to the Future to celebrate Southampton cinema reopening

TO celebrate its reopening , Showcase Cinema de Lux Southampton will be treating film fans to a free screening of Back to the Future on Friday at 6.30pm .
To welcome back cinemagoers this Friday , timeless classic Back to the Future will be screened , so guests can sit back , relax and enjoy the big screen experience without having to pay a penny .
Starring Michael J .
Fox as high school student Marty McFly , and Christopher Lloyd as quirky and eccentric scientist Doc Brown , Back to the Future sees this unlikely friendship embark on an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fuelled with action , comedy , romance and sci-fi , this film has everything you need to escape reality , and more .
So , whether you ’ d like to visit as a family or for an overdue date night , then this is the perfect way to finish the week off .
Showcase Cinemas UK General Manager , Mark Barlow , said : “ We are delighted that we are able to open Showcase Cinema de Lux Southampton and we look forward to welcoming back families and households to the big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in the area have missed the big screen experience , so we are thrilled to welcome guests ‘ Back to the Cinema ’ by offering a complimentary screening as a welcome back gift .
”

To welcome back cinemagoers this Friday, timeless classic Back to the Future will be screened, so guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the big screen experience without having to pay a penny.
Starring Michael J. Fox as high school student Marty McFly, and Christopher Lloyd as quirky and eccentric scientist Doc Brown, Back to the Future sees this unlikely friendship embark on an adventure of a lifetime…30 years ago.
Fuelled with action, comedy, romance and sci-fi, this film has everything you need to escape reality, and more. So, whether you’d like to visit as a family or for an overdue date night, then this is the perfect way to finish the week off.
Showcase Cinemas UK General Manager, Mark Barlow, said: “We are delighted that we are able to open Showcase Cinema de Lux Southampton and we look forward to welcoming back families and households to the big screen.
“We know how much people in the area have missed the big screen experience, so we are thrilled to welcome guests ‘Back to the Cinema’ by offering a complimentary screening as a welcome back gift.”
To book, visit showcasecinemas.co.uk/film-info/back-to-the-future


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Householder at Marley Mount, Sway, withdraws planning application

PLANS to upgrade a conservatory in the New Forest National Park have been withdrawn by the applicant .
The Lymington-based @ @ @ @ @ ) is no longer studying an application relating to a semi-detached Victorian cottage at Marley @ @ @ @ @ applicant had sought consent to carry out alterations to the walls and roof of a @ @ @ @ @ : `` As is common with conservatories it becomes too hot in summer and unusable @ @ @ @ @ proposal is to change the roof to a flat roof with a glass lantern with @ @ @ @ @ `` Most of the windows which face the side boundary would be replaced by a @ @ @ @ @ would increase the privacy between the two houses and also significantly improve the thermal insulation @ @ @ @ @ But the application was opposed by Sway Parish Council .
In a letter to the @ @ @ @ @ alterations suggested that the conservatory was going to be turned into an extension of the @ @

The Lymington-based National Park Authority (NPA) is no longer studying an application relating to a semi-detached Victorian cottage at Marley Mount, Sway.
The applicant had sought consent to carry out alterations to the walls and roof of a conservatory.
Their application said: "As is common with conservatories it becomes too hot in summer and unusable in winter. Thus the
proposal is to change the roof to a flat roof with a glass lantern with very high thermal insulation.
"Most of the windows which face the side boundary would be replaced by a cavity wall.
"This would increase the privacy between the two houses and also significantly improve the thermal insulation of the conservatory."
But the application was opposed by Sway Parish Council.
In a letter to the NPA it said the proposed alterations suggested that the conservatory was going to be turned into an extension of the house.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Plan to build property at Elvin Close, Hordle, refused

PROPOSALS to replace a garage with a two-bedroom house have been rejected .
New Forest District Council ( NFDC ) @ @ @ @ @ application relating to a property at Elvin Close in Hordle .
Hordle Parish Council had @ @ @ @ @ proposal , saying it amounted to over-development .
The authority also received ten letters of @ @ @ @ @ cited the `` overbearing impact '' of the scheme .
They also raised road safety @ @ @ @ @ NFDC members said the applicant had attempted to overcome the objections to the earlier proposal @ @ @ @ @ `` minor revisions '' made did not address the main impact of the scheme on @ @ @

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has refused to support an application relating to a property at Elvin Close in Hordle.
Hordle Parish Council had urged NFDC to reject the proposal, saying it amounted to over-development.
The authority also received ten letters of objection from locals, who cited the "overbearing impact" of the scheme. They also raised road safety concerns.
A similar application was rejected earlier this year.
A report to NFDC members said the applicant had attempted to overcome the objections to the earlier proposal.
But it said the "minor revisions" made did not address the main impact of the scheme on the area.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Plan to upgrade property in Hordle given go-ahead

PLANNING chiefs in the New Forest have seen one of their decisions overturned .
An appeal was lodged after the @ @ @ @ @ relating to a property at Pegasus Avenue in Hordle .
The applicants had sought consent @ @ @ @ @ association with first floor accommodation '' .
Now government-appointed planning inspector Martin Allen has quashed @ @ @ @ @ His report says : `` The proposed increase in height of the property would be @ @ @ @ @ .
However , the shallow pitch and general form of the roof would be retained @ @ @ @ @ retain the characteristic attributes that the property shares with its neighbours .
`` The increase @ @ @ @ @ dwelling would not result in it being an overly dominant or incongruous feature . ''

An appeal was lodged after the district council rejected an application relating to a property at Pegasus Avenue in Hordle.
The applicants had sought consent for "roof alterations in association with first floor accommodation".
Now government-appointed planning inspector Martin Allen has quashed the council's decision.
His report says: "The proposed increase in height of the property would be readily apparent from the road. However, the shallow pitch and general form of the roof would be retained.
"The scheme would retain the characteristic attributes that the property shares with its neighbours.
"The increase in the height of the dwelling would not result in it being an overly dominant or incongruous feature."


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Florence Nightingale Day at Stroud School

YEAR One pupils at Stroud School in Romsey have been celebrating Florence Nightingale , the founder of modern nursing and @ @ @ @ @ children really enjoyed Florence Nightingale Day , learning about her life and work , most @ @ @ @ @ .
They made lanterns and investigated artefacts from her lifetime .
At the end of @ @ @ @ @ was turned into an old , dirty hospital and the young ‘ nurses ’ transformed @ @ @ @ @ hospital , whilst feeding the injured soldiers , reading to them by lamp light and @ @ @ @ @ and ink .
This year saw the 200th anniversary of the birth of the ‘ @ @ @ @ @ .
Florence Nightingale lived at Embley Park near Romsey , just a few miles from @ @ @ @ @ buried at West Wellow , also very close by .

The children really enjoyed Florence Nightingale Day, learning about her life and work, most notably during the Crimean War.
They made lanterns and investigated artefacts from her lifetime.
At the end of the day, the classroom was turned into an old, dirty hospital and the young ‘nurses’ transformed the hospital into a clean hospital, whilst feeding the injured soldiers, reading to them by lamp light and writing letters using a quill and ink.
This year saw the 200th anniversary of the birth of the ‘Lady with the Lamp’.
Florence Nightingale lived at Embley Park near Romsey, just a few miles from Stroud School, and is buried at West Wellow, also very close by.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Bullied sailor stabbed mate in the heart - but was it murder?

THE more he heard , the more his heart sank , sickened by the relentless brutality a young black American endured on a British-registered ship .
Standing in front of Mr Justice Hawkins was bewildered Robert Fisher , thousands of miles away from home and facing the death penalty .
Some reports put him as 17 , others said he was as little as 15 , and how he came to work on the Voyageur , a three masted schooner , is unknown .
Slavery had long been abolished and one can only surmise he had come aboard on his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjected to the tyrannical regime of the first mate and captain .
In the middle of the night in mid-ocean , the teenager was ordered aloft to grease a mast .
When he was eventually allowed down , he left the pot on the dock and it overturned , another excuse for the mate James Macauley to vent his anger .
No one saw the fatal incident .
The mate was found lying on his back after being knifed in the heart .
Within minutes he breathed his last and Fisher was clapped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back illustrating he had been injured in a struggle .
At his Hampshire Assizes trial in 1882 , the prosecutor was highly sympathetic .
`` There was considerable violence from the man who took hold of his neck , '' Mr Warry told jurors in his opening address .
`` If you are of the opinion that he wilfully intended to murder the mate , you must find him guilty . ''
But then he significantly added : `` If you can see your way to any other conclusion , no one will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is to probe a crime of this character to the very bottom . ''
Fisher was making his first trip on a boat and the Voyageur was laden with flour to be unloaded in the north east state of Pernambuco in Brazil .
It was December 20 , 1881 , and the abused youth was ordered up the mizen mast at midnight , a practise unknown to seasoned sailor Antoine Hellgren .
`` It is usual to scrape the masts in the day time , '' the Finn told jurors .
`` Night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a boy up .
He would not have gone up in such a manner without orders .
He was new to the work and did not understand it . ''
Hellgren was asked by defence counsel Mr Coleridge : `` Was he brutally beaten in consequence ? ''
He replied : `` Both by the captain and the mate .
I had seen the mate strike him four times with his hands but never with a rope 's end or a belaying pin . ''
That night he had only just returned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or crying '' and found Macauley lying on the deck bleeding .
Nearby lay a bloodstained knife .
Macauley died four minutes later and his body was committed to the deep .
Fisher was clapped in irons and taken ashore to be questioned by the consul before being transferred to the West India Company 's Neva which arrived in Southampton Docks in company with two witnesses , the knife and relevant papers .
The following morning , January 30 , 1882 , in a state of distress , he appeared before the local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to proceed with his case until they had received instructions from London .
After he had been granted a week 's bail on the unusual condition he remained at the seamen 's hostel , the court clerk informed Fisher he would contact the American consul in Southampton as to the appropriate steps that could be taken in his defence , but owing to his illness and difficulty in acquiring a suitable interpreter for foreign witnesses , he did not return until February 23 when the magistrates were told of the mate 's bullying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to step between the pair the morning before the fatal drama .
Joseph James told him : `` You 're always striking the boy and if you do it again , you will have me to lick . ''
Following the production of the dead man 's bloodied clothing , Fisher was committed to stand trial on a charge of wilful murder , eventually appearing before Mr Justice Hawkins on May 19 when his constant ill-treatment formed the basis of his defence .
`` This boy 's life was a succession of unmerited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of intolerable outrage and cruelty , '' said Mr Coleridge .
`` The result was that he was goaded nearly to frenzy , and although that does not justify the use of a knife , yet it will account for the hatred which he had of those on board the vessel .
`` No one knows what foul insult he was subject to that night but what we do know that at midnight when the ship was in mid ocean , he was sent to grease the mast , a work which all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to at such an hour .
`` I suggest the defendant had a fair right on this night to assume he was to be made the subject of greater violence than an ordinary beating .
He was in such a situation that the act was justifiable , he only acted in self defence . ''
In his summing up , the judge said Fisher was little more than `` an inexperienced child '' and condemned the severity of the punishment which could only arouse the utmost indignation .
There was , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the mast at such an hour .
`` But there is no doubt the wound was inflicted by him , and you have to decide whether this amounted to murder or manslaughter , or was there such justification as will entitle him to his dismissal . ''
Jurors retired for only a minute and in finding him guilty of manslaughter , they recommended him to mercy because of his suffering .
`` Do i understand you to mean that in your opinion he has been ill-treated all along or only on that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` All along , '' the foreman firmly replied .
Passing sentence , the judge said he had listened to the case with `` a sickened heart '' that his shipmates had not treated him as well as they should have done .
`` I hope the details of this case will be brought before those who have the power to express an opinion and to act with propriety and justice towards those persons who are guilty of the brutality practised upon him .
I am very much afraid there are many cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victim of heartless cruelty . ''
He then told Fisher : `` It seems you lost your temper and was goaded to commit this unlawful act . ''
Mindful he had been held clapped in irons and the length of his remand , the judge jailed him for one month with hard labour for his friends to arrange his plans .
`` At the same time act I hope this will act as a lesson that in future he should govern his temper .

Standing in front of Mr Justice Hawkins was bewildered Robert Fisher, thousands of miles away from home and facing the death penalty.
Some reports put him as 17, others said he was as little as 15, and how he came to work on the Voyageur, a three masted schooner, is unknown. Slavery had long been abolished and one can only surmise he had come aboard on his own volition, but there he was subjected to the tyrannical regime of the first mate and captain.
Eventually, his patience snapped.
In the middle of the night in mid-ocean, the teenager was ordered aloft to grease a mast. When he was eventually allowed down, he left the pot on the dock and it overturned, another excuse for the mate James Macauley to vent his anger.
No one saw the fatal incident. The mate was found lying on his back after being knifed in the heart. Within minutes he breathed his last and Fisher was clapped in irons, deep marks on his back illustrating he had been injured in a struggle.
At his Hampshire Assizes trial in 1882, the prosecutor was highly sympathetic.
"There was considerable violence from the man who took hold of his neck," Mr Warry told jurors in his opening address. "If you are of the opinion that he wilfully intended to murder the mate, you must find him guilty."
But then he significantly added: "If you can see your way to any other conclusion, no one will be more glad than myself whose job is to probe a crime of this character to the very bottom."
Fisher was making his first trip on a boat and the Voyageur was laden with flour to be unloaded in the north east state of Pernambuco in Brazil.
It was December 20, 1881, and the abused youth was ordered up the mizen mast at midnight, a practise unknown to seasoned sailor Antoine Hellgren.
"It is usual to scrape the masts in the day time," the Finn told jurors. "Night would be an unusual time to send a boy up. He would not have gone up in such a manner without orders. He was new to the work and did not understand it."
Hellgren was asked by defence counsel Mr Coleridge: "Was he brutally beaten in consequence?"
He replied: "Both by the captain and the mate. I had seen the mate strike him four times with his hands but never with a rope's end or a belaying pin."
That night he had only just returned to duty when he heard "a moaning or crying" and found Macauley lying on the deck bleeding. Nearby lay a bloodstained knife. Macauley died four minutes later and his body was committed to the deep.
Fisher was clapped in irons and taken ashore to be questioned by the consul before being transferred to the West India Company's Neva which arrived in Southampton Docks in company with two witnesses, the knife and relevant papers.
The following morning, January 30, 1882, in a state of distress, he appeared before the local magistrates who told him it was impossible to proceed with his case until they had received instructions from London.
After he had been granted a week's bail on the unusual condition he remained at the seamen's hostel, the court clerk informed Fisher he would contact the American consul in Southampton as to the appropriate steps that could be taken in his defence, but owing to his illness and difficulty in acquiring a suitable interpreter for foreign witnesses, he did not return until February 23 when the magistrates were told of the mate's bullying attitude and the ship's cook had to step between the pair the morning before the fatal drama.
Joseph James told him: "You're always striking the boy and if you do it again, you will have me to lick."
Following the production of the dead man's bloodied clothing, Fisher was committed to stand trial on a charge of wilful murder, eventually appearing before Mr Justice Hawkins on May 19 when his constant ill-treatment formed the basis of his defence.
"This boy's life was a succession of unmerited insults and he was made the victim of intolerable outrage and cruelty," said Mr Coleridge. "The result was that he was goaded nearly to frenzy, and although that does not justify the use of a knife, yet it will account for the hatred which he had of those on board the vessel.
"No one knows what foul insult he was subject to that night but what we do know that at midnight when the ship was in mid ocean, he was sent to grease the mast, a work which all the men admitted they had never been asked to at such an hour.
"I suggest the defendant had a fair right on this night to assume he was to be made the subject of greater violence than an ordinary beating. He was in such a situation that the act was justifiable, he only acted in self defence."
In his summing up, the judge said Fisher was little more than "an inexperienced child" and condemned the severity of the punishment which could only arouse the utmost indignation. There was, he maintained, no justification for sending him up the mast at such an hour.
"But there is no doubt the wound was inflicted by him, and you have to decide whether this amounted to murder or manslaughter, or was there such justification as will entitle him to his dismissal."
Jurors retired for only a minute and in finding him guilty of manslaughter, they recommended him to mercy because of his suffering.
"Do i understand you to mean that in your opinion he has been ill-treated all along or only on that night?" the judge asked.
"All along," the foreman firmly replied.
Passing sentence, the judge said he had listened to the case with "a sickened heart" that his shipmates had not treated him as well as they should have done.
"I hope the details of this case will be brought before those who have the power to express an opinion and to act with propriety and justice towards those persons who are guilty of the brutality practised upon him. I am very much afraid there are many cases of helpless children at sea being the victim of heartless cruelty."
He then told Fisher: "It seems you lost your temper and was goaded to commit this unlawful act."
Mindful he had been held clapped in irons and the length of his remand, the judge jailed him for one month with hard labour for his friends to arrange his plans.
"At the same time act I hope this will act as a lesson that in future he should govern his temper.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Aldi and Deliveroo offer Christmas dinner delivery for £5

Christmas dinner is the star of the show when it comes to celebrating the festive season with families and friends .
But while most of us ca n't wait to tuck into our turkey , with all the trimmings of course , it 's often a not so enjoyable for whoever is left to cook it .
If slaving over the stove isn ’ t your idea of a perfect Christmas , Aldi has solved the problem by offering freshly cooked Christmas dinners to be delivered straight to your door for just £5 .
How to order - and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a full hot roast dinner for delivery at Christmas , with orders to be made via Deliveroo .
The dinners will be available to pre-order from Saturday 12 December on the food delivery app , and dropped off the following day at a time of your choosing .
Unfortunately the offer will only be rolled out in select locations in London , Edinburgh and Manchester on Sunday 13 December .
The meal has a choice of a traditional meat or vegan option , and comes with all the trimmings , including carrots , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooked by top chef , Neil Rankin .
And it only costs £5 , with the donation to be given to charity .
Julie Ashfield , managing director of buying at Aldi , said , `` After a year unlike any other , we want to give our customers a treat by taking the stress out of cooking at home , which is why we ’ ve partnered with Neil Rankin and Deliveroo to create Christmas on a Plate .
`` Our research has shown that people will be celebrating in many different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is for certain – the nation is still gearing up to enjoy an amazing Christmas dinner and that ’ s where we ’ re best placed to help , with beautiful food at great value .
“ We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy quality food not just at Christmas , but every day of the year , and that ’ s why all proceeds of our initiative will go to Neighbourly , supporting local charities and communities.
” What does the dinner include ?
The following food items will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivery menu :

But while most of us can't wait to tuck into our turkey, with all the trimmings of course, it's often a not so enjoyable for whoever is left to cook it.
If slaving over the stove isn’t your idea of a perfect Christmas, Aldi has solved the problem by offering freshly cooked Christmas dinners to be delivered straight to your door for just £5.
How to order - and how much it costs
The supermarket is providing a full hot roast dinner for delivery at Christmas, with orders to be made via Deliveroo. The dinners will be available to pre-order from Saturday 12 December on the food delivery app, and dropped off the following day at a time of your choosing.
Unfortunately the offer will only be rolled out in select locations in London, Edinburgh and Manchester on Sunday 13 December.
The meal has a choice of a traditional meat or vegan option, and comes with all the trimmings, including carrots, roast potatoes and pigs in blankets, cooked by top chef, Neil Rankin.
And it only costs £5, with the donation to be given to charity.
Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi, said, "After a year unlike any other, we want to give our customers a treat by taking the stress out of cooking at home, which is why we’ve partnered with Neil Rankin and Deliveroo to create Christmas on a Plate.
"Our research has shown that people will be celebrating in many different ways this year, but one thing is for certain – the nation is still gearing up to enjoy an amazing Christmas dinner and that’s where we’re best placed to help, with beautiful food at great value.
“We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy quality food not just at Christmas, but every day of the year, and that’s why all proceeds of our initiative will go to Neighbourly, supporting local charities and communities.”
What does the dinner include?
The following food items will be including in Aldi’s Christmas dinner delivery menu:
Meat option
Portion of roast turkey
Truffle Pigs in Blankets
‘Aldi Amazing’ Roast Potatoes
Cumin roasted carrots
Yorkshire Puds made from scratch
Spiced cider Stuffing, roast squash and cranberry onion Pithivier
Fried sprouts with, cranberries, rainbow peppercorns, ginger and garlic
Vegan option


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Eastleigh businesses benefit from financial support

More than 200 businesses have benefited from almost £325k in financial support following the second lockdown .
The national Local @ @ @ @ @ is being paid out by Eastleigh Borough Council , supports businesses that were open as @ @ @ @ @ to close due to restrictions .
Businesses may be eligible if they occupy property on @ @ @ @ @ , have been required to close because of local restrictions and has been able to @ @ @ @ @ service .
Local leaders are now encouraging all businesses who have not yet applied , @ @ @ @ @ Lead for the Economy , Councillor Derek Pretty , said : “ During these difficult @ @ @ @ @ pleased to again be able to help businesses in the Borough by ensuring they are @ @ @ @ @ can .
`` These businesses contribute a great deal to our local economy and we @ @ @ @ @ to trade successfully in the future .
”

The national Local Restrictions Support Grant, which is being paid out by Eastleigh Borough Council, supports businesses that were open as usual, but were required to close due to restrictions.
Businesses may be eligible if they occupy property on which they pay business rates, have been required to close because of local restrictions and has been able to provide its usual in-person customer service.
Local leaders are now encouraging all businesses who have not yet applied, to do so.
Cabinet Lead for the Economy, Councillor Derek Pretty, said: “During these difficult times we’re so pleased to again be able to help businesses in the Borough by ensuring they are getting all the support they can.
"These businesses contribute a great deal to our local economy and we want to see them continuing to trade successfully in the future.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--Three quarters of Hampshire residents to donate to charity this Xmas

ALMOST three quarters of Hampshire residents intend to donate to a charity close to home this Christmas , a new @ @ @ @ @ released from Ecclesiastical Insurance ’ s 12 Days of Giving campaign shows 4,669 people in @ @ @ @ @ nominated a local cause to receive a £1,000 donation .
A total of 70 per @ @ @ @ @ will donate to a charity this Christmas because of the current climate , and a @ @ @ @ @ believe it ’ s more important than ever to support the work of local charities @ @ @ @ @ Giving will see 120 different charities receive an early Christmas gift of a £1,000 donation @ @ @ @ @ are being asked to nominate a charity close to their hearts to receive a festive @ @ @ @ @ people suggesting 3,927 good causes already , in the last two weeks alone .
Nominations @ @ @ @ @ and you can vote for your favourite charity at www.movementforgood.com/12days .

Data released from Ecclesiastical Insurance’s 12 Days of Giving campaign shows 4,669 people in the county have so far nominated a local cause to receive a £1,000 donation.
A total of 70 per cent of people said they will donate to a charity this Christmas because of the current climate, and a total of 84 per cent believe it’s more important than ever to support the work of local charities.
The 12 Days of Giving will see 120 different charities receive an early Christmas gift of a £1,000 donation.
Members of the public are being asked to nominate a charity close to their hearts to receive a festive financial boost with nearly 140,000 people suggesting 3,927 good causes already, in the last two weeks alone.
Nominations are open until December 21 and you can vote for your favourite charity at www.movementforgood.com/12days.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--50 jobs created at Home Instead Senior Care Southampton

A HOME care business is creating around 50 jobs and launching a live-in service after seeing a surge in demand .
Home Instead Senior Care Southampton is looking to hire around 20 live-in caregivers and 30 regular carers .
It says demand for all its services has spiked during the coronavirus crisis .
Greg Harrold , co-owner of Home Instead Southampton , said : “ Many people have been looking for an alternative to care homes for their loved ones throughout the pandemic .
“ It allows people to stay in the comfort of their own home , around their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from our specialist-trained caregivers .
“ With many sectors facing turbulence and uncertainty , including hospitality , aviation and retail , we know this is a challenging time for the job market .
“ A career in the care sector could be the next chapter for many , especially if they see the appeal in making a real difference to older people ’ s lives , ” he added .
Live-in caregivers move into the client ’ s home to give them the support they need and act as a trusted companion .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are able to rest , sleep and enjoy regular activities .
Home Instead Senior Care Southampton specialises in care for the elderly in and around the city , enabling people to continue living in their own homes .
It is a local franchise of the national Home Instead Senior Care business .
It also supports people with sensory and physical impairment and is registered by the Quality Care Commission to provide personal care .
A number of its clients are living with dementia or Alzheimer ’ s .
Home Instead Southampton recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Care Quality Commission in the “ caring ” category and a “ good ” rating overall .
The inspector reported at the time : “ Everyone we spoke with was consistently positive about the caring attitude of staff and described the trusting relationships they had built.
” The business is run by father-and-son team Mike and Greg Harrold , who joined in late 2019 , taking over from the founding owners .

Home Instead Senior Care Southampton is looking to hire around 20 live-in caregivers and 30 regular carers.
It says demand for all its services has spiked during the coronavirus crisis.
Greg Harrold, co-owner of Home Instead Southampton, said: “Many people have been looking for an alternative to care homes for their loved ones throughout the pandemic.
“Our live-in care service offers just that.
“It allows people to stay in the comfort of their own home, around their familiar surroundings, all whilst receiving care from our specialist-trained caregivers.
“With many sectors facing turbulence and uncertainty, including hospitality, aviation and retail, we know this is a challenging time for the job market.
“A career in the care sector could be the next chapter for many, especially if they see the appeal in making a real difference to older people’s lives,” he added.
Live-in caregivers move into the client’s home to give them the support they need and act as a trusted companion. When not working their agreed hours, they are able to rest, sleep and enjoy regular activities.
Home Instead Senior Care Southampton specialises in care for the elderly in and around the city, enabling people to continue living in their own homes. It is a local franchise of the national Home Instead Senior Care business.
It also supports people with sensory and physical impairment and is registered by the Quality Care Commission to provide personal care. A number of its clients are living with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Home Instead Southampton recently received an “outstanding” rating from the Care Quality Commission in the “caring” category and a “good” rating overall.
The inspector reported at the time: “Everyone we spoke with was consistently positive about the caring attitude of staff and described the trusting relationships they had built.”
The business is run by father-and-son team Mike and Greg Harrold, who joined in late 2019, taking over from the founding owners.


thedailyecho--2020-12-03--LETTER - Vaccine is answer to our prayers

The coronorvirus vaccine , which is 95 % effective , is also an answer to prayer .
People have been praying long and hard for God to show His grace yet again and the roll out of the vaccine is a perfect example of that .
I know of gospel halls that have been open for prayer during the pandemic and this in itself has provided lots of opportunities for prayer too .
As a result , people prayed for our leaders and people on the frontline and grace has been given .
However , this grace is only available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone .
Which is exactly why , even though we all fall short of the glory of God , there is still time as I write for anyone to repent and come into a personal relationship with Him because , Mark my words , even the beginning of sorrows is going to be far more global and far more deadly than anything ever seen to date - even Coronavirus !
Yet there is a way out at the rapture of the church that is 100 % effective , It will happen in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shall rise first and disciples of Jesus Christ will follow and whilst the world shall plunge into tribulation , disciples of Christ will be blessed in a land flowing with milk , honey and the company of our Heavenly Father .

People have been praying long and hard for God to show His grace yet again and the roll out of the vaccine is a perfect example of that.
I know of gospel halls that have been open for prayer during the pandemic and this in itself has provided lots of opportunities for prayer too.
As a result, people prayed for our leaders and people on the frontline and grace has been given.
However, this grace is only available for a period of time unknown to anyone.
Which is exactly why, even though we all fall short of the glory of God, there is still time as I write for anyone to repent and come into a personal relationship with Him because, Mark my words, even the beginning of sorrows is going to be far more global and far more deadly than anything ever seen to date - even Coronavirus!
Yet there is a way out at the rapture of the church that is 100% effective,
It will happen in the twinkling of an eye, the dead shall rise first and disciples of Jesus Christ will follow and whilst the world shall plunge into tribulation, disciples of Christ will be blessed in a land flowing with milk, honey and the company of our Heavenly Father.
Geoffrey Brooking
Havant