thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Volunteer mask maker partners with Winchester college to raise over £1,000 for basics bank

A VOLUNTEER mask maker has raised more than £1,000 thanks to the help of staff at a Winchester college .
Keen quilter Carol Edwards was in between projects and had an extensive stash of fabrics when she began making the masks , and now she has raised vital funds for the the Southampton Basics Bank .
She said : “ As soon as the need for face masks was proposed I started making them for my family and friends , as I strongly oppose the use of plastic for throwaway items .
Friends of my daughters started asking for masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them for charity was born.
” Tom Prentki , Carol ’ s son-in-law , works at Peter Symonds College and suggested taking in a basket of masks for fellow teachers , with donations going to charity .
The first basket sold out and was very quickly replaced , and Carol estimates that she has made over 350 masks in just over a month , raising much needed funds for the basics bank , which supports local people in need with emergency food and clothing supplies .
Carol said : “ I have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of years , and for me it is an important charity to support during these uncertain times when so many people are suffering financial hardship.
” She added : “ I have been amazed at the response to my masks and delighted that they have sold so well .
I will continue to make them as long as the need is there.
” Commenting on behalf of basics bank , Jen Ball said : “ Last December we fed over 1,300 people and this year we expect to be even busier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for using her skills to not only keep people safe but also to raise funds which will help us distribute food and clothing to many people facing hardship during this crisis.
” So far , Carol has raised £1,022 for the basics bank , the bulk of which was raised from sales at Peter Symonds College .

Keen quilter Carol Edwards was in between projects and had an extensive stash of fabrics when she began making the masks, and now she has raised vital funds for the the Southampton Basics Bank.
She said: “As soon as the need for face masks was proposed I started making them for my family and friends, as I strongly oppose the use of plastic for throwaway items. Friends of my daughters started asking for masks too and so the idea of making them for charity was born.”
Tom Prentki, Carol’s son-in-law, works at Peter Symonds College and suggested taking in a basket of masks for fellow teachers, with donations going to charity.
The first basket sold out and was very quickly replaced, and Carol estimates that she has made over 350 masks in just over a month, raising much needed funds for the basics bank, which supports local people in need with emergency food and clothing supplies.
Carol said: “I have been a supporter of Southampton Basics Bank for a number of years, and for me it is an important charity to support during these uncertain times when so many people are suffering financial hardship.”
She added: “I have been amazed at the response to my masks and delighted that they have sold so well. I will continue to make them as long as the need is there.”
Commenting on behalf of basics bank, Jen Ball said: “Last December we fed over 1,300 people and this year we expect to be even busier. We are hugely grateful to Carol for using her skills to not only keep people safe but also to raise funds which will help us distribute food and clothing to many people facing hardship during this crisis.”
So far, Carol has raised £1,022 for the basics bank, the bulk of which was raised from sales at Peter Symonds College.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--LETTER -Priti Patel letter disrespectful and condescending

We are lucky to air our views and promote free speech in the Daily Echo .
Mr Newman , on December 3 you wrote a reply to letters supporting Priti Patel .
Whilst applauding your right to reply I am disappointed at the format .
I found his letter towards Priti Patel disrespectful and condescending .
You did your home work and raised interesting facts but she is not the only politician in our present and past governments to make mistakes and cost this country monetary problems and loss of respect .
The Windrush scandal is a classic example and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being dealt with .
Another point Mr Newman , I have in the past worked in the Civil Service and had the experience of the arrogance within , and often decisions are made with no regard for the views of the people who put pay their wages .
I think Brexit is a classic example .
Nobody predicted the outcome and there was evidence in the media of those who put up barriers to stop it even though the country had a democratic vote .
I would also like to say a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involved at the very beginning when all the Windrush Generation entered this country .
I would also like to applaud our home secretary for the recent attempt to deport criminals from this country who were guests and committed appalling crimes , once again the Woke brigade celebrities instigated on stopping the deportation .
Mr Newman was she wrong to deport them ?
We now face our tax payers money being diverted to lawyers ' fees , instead of helping the Windrush survivors .
Do you think Mr Newman this is right ?
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were victims of these crimes would they be so vocal ?
I do not think so .
Mr Newman , you mentioned the word hilarious but I hope you did not mean it in the context it seemed to , as none of the points are hilarious they are very serious and need to be taken as such .
Your letter was very good and interesting and I hope I have not offended you in my reply .

Mr Newman, on December 3 you wrote a reply to letters supporting Priti Patel.
Whilst applauding your right to reply I am disappointed at the format.
I found his letter towards Priti Patel disrespectful and condescending.
You did your home work and raised interesting facts but she is not the only politician in our present and past governments to make mistakes and cost this country monetary problems and loss of respect.
The Windrush scandal is a classic example and caused this country embarrassment and now rightly being dealt with.
Another point Mr Newman, I have in the past worked in the Civil Service and had the experience of the arrogance within, and often decisions are made with no regard for the views of the people who put pay their wages.
I think Brexit is a classic example.
Nobody predicted the outcome and there was evidence in the media of those who put up barriers to stop it even though the country had a democratic vote.
I would also like to say a lot of staff from the Civil Service were involved at the very beginning when all the Windrush Generation entered this country.
I would also like to applaud our home secretary for the recent attempt to deport criminals from this country who were guests and committed appalling crimes, once again the Woke brigade celebrities instigated on stopping the deportation.
Mr Newman was she wrong to deport them?
We now face our tax payers money being diverted to lawyers' fees, instead of helping the Windrush survivors.
Do you think Mr Newman this is right?
My suspicion is if any of these celebrities were victims of these crimes would they be so vocal? I do not think so.
Mr Newman, you mentioned the word hilarious but I hope you did not mean it in the context it seemed to , as none of the points are hilarious they are very serious and need to be taken as such.
Your letter was very good and interesting and I hope I have not offended you in my reply.
Christine Cassell
Southampton


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--LETTER - Success for Southampton Sea Cadets

DESPITE all the challenges imposed by Covid 19 , Southampton Sea Cadets have had a successful year earning one of the corp 's highest allocates , the Burgee flag .
Working within Government legislation and the sea cadets own policies on training , the Southampton unit has continued to be successful and at its annual inspection ( Unit Review – UR ) increased its score from 84 % to 91 % .
This result means Southampton is one of the best performing units in the country and is awarded the coveted Burgee flag .
Lt ( SCC ) Lindsay Basset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unit said : “ The year has not been without its challenges but we have continued to engage with over 90 % of our cadets and continued with training remotely via Zoom and now face to face again in controlled environments .
`` Only last week we saw cadets promoted to leading roles with success in First Aid , Marine Engineering , Communication Systems , & Seamanship.
” Looking forward to 2021 the unit will be focusing on practical boating skills .
If anyone is interested in joining as a cadet ( boys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or as staff please contact admin @ sotonsea-cadets.org

Working within Government legislation and the sea cadets own policies on training, the Southampton unit has continued to be successful and at its annual inspection (Unit Review – UR) increased its score from 84% to 91%.
This result means Southampton is one of the best performing units in the country and is awarded the coveted Burgee flag.
Lt (SCC) Lindsay Basset RNR, the commanding officer of the unit said: “The year has not been without its challenges but we have continued to engage with over 90% of our cadets and continued with training remotely via Zoom and now face to face again in controlled environments.
"Only last week we saw cadets promoted to leading roles with success in First Aid, Marine Engineering, Communication Systems, & Seamanship.”
Looking forward to 2021 the unit will be focusing on practical boating skills.
If anyone is interested in joining as a cadet (boys & girls aged nine to 18) or as staff please contact admin@sotonsea-cadets.org
Ted Hill
Southampton Sea Cadets


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--LETTER - Where's data that supports climate change agenda?

HUMANS have lived through thousands of years of lengthy warming periods , lengthy cooling periods , massive floods , long @ @ @ @ @ and hurricanes .
What we have never had to live through is arrogant politicians and @ @ @ @ @ temperatures , sea levels , and storm activity forever if we just destroy our economy @ @ @ @ @ oil .
Oil has greatly improved the quality and length of life for everyone who @ @ @ @ @ somebody with an ear to politicians , just ask one simple question : On fifty @ @ @ @ @ , can you please give us the scientific data that supports the agenda ?

What we have never had to live through is arrogant politicians and bureaucrats pretending they can control temperatures, sea levels, and storm activity forever if we just destroy our economy by stopping the use of oil.
Oil has greatly improved the quality and length of life for everyone who has used it.
Can somebody with an ear to politicians, just ask one simple question:
On fifty years of pushing climate-change agenda, can you please give us the scientific data that supports the agenda?
Dave Christian
Southampton


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Workplace of the future will need new laws, says report by law firm Paris Smith

THE laws governing the workplace need a major rethink after months of home working .
That is the case made in a report by a Southampton law firm , which takes into account such issues as mental health , “ Zoom fatigue ” , the “ right to disconnect ” and flexible working .
Paris Smith has released a white paper , The Workforce of the Future , which explores the challenges faced by employers in the “ new normal ” .
Clive Dobbin , partner at Paris Smith , said : “ Employers now have to carefully consider whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business as normal ’ or whether they should instead start to plan for a new normal which embraces flexible working .
“ The law needs to be completely updated to give greater rights to challenge an employer ’ s refusal to allow homeworking.
” The report looks at leadership and how new ways of working can support employee wellbeing and productivity .
Dr Simon Fox , head of law at Solent University , told the authors : “ We are living through a revolution .
Working practices and the law evolve through time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a revolution , as we are forced to make rapid and immediate changes to how we socialise , live and work .
“ I am concerned that there needs to be a proper consideration of people ’ s wellbeing and their mental health , as well as their physical health , in regard to working remotely and working from home .
That leads back to the law needing to adjust and keep pace.
” Hannah Leach , vice president of employee experience and culture at Carnival UK , which operates the P @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Leaders have a critical role in setting a vision for the future that enables their people to see beyond the near-term crisis ; that helps people understand their role in getting to brighter , better days .
“ The learnings from the last few months are much broader than home vs office .
We ’ re interested to explore new ways of working that support wellbeing and productivity.
” The report also considers what the changes mean for physical offices and for town and city centres .
Andrew Edmonds , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & Williamson , said : “ The buzz phrase around the firm seems to be ‘ Come to the office to collaborate , go home to work.
” The report can be found here .
Other contributors to the report include Draper Tools , KPMG , global farming and food group Barfoots , accountants Smith & Williamson , Marwell Wildlife , TW Metals , King Edward VI School and GO !
Southampton .

That is the case made in a report by a Southampton law firm, which takes into account such issues as mental health, “Zoom fatigue”, the “right to disconnect” and flexible working.
Paris Smith has released a white paper, The Workforce of the Future, which explores the challenges faced by employers in the “new normal”.
Clive Dobbin, partner at Paris Smith, said: “Employers now have to carefully consider whether they still wish to return to ‘business as normal’ or whether they should instead start to plan for a new normal which embraces flexible working.
“The law needs to be completely updated to give greater rights to challenge an employer’s refusal to allow homeworking.”
The report looks at leadership and how new ways of working can support employee wellbeing and productivity.
Dr Simon Fox, head of law at Solent University, told the authors: “We are living through a revolution. Working practices and the law evolve through time. Covid-19 has moved such an evolution into a revolution, as we are forced to make rapid and immediate changes to how we socialise, live and work.
“I am concerned that there needs to be a proper consideration of people’s wellbeing and their mental health, as well as their physical health, in regard to working remotely and working from home. That leads back to the law needing to adjust and keep pace.”
Hannah Leach, vice president of employee experience and culture at Carnival UK, which operates the P&O Cruises & Cunard brands, said: “Leaders have a critical role in setting a vision for the future that enables their people to see beyond the near-term crisis; that helps people understand their role in getting to brighter, better days.
“The learnings from the last few months are much broader than home vs office. We’re interested to explore new ways of working that support wellbeing and productivity.”
The report also considers what the changes mean for physical offices and for town and city centres.
Andrew Edmonds, managing partner at Southampton accountancy firm Smith & Williamson, said: “The buzz phrase around the firm seems to be ‘Come to the office to collaborate, go home to work.”
The report can be found here.
Other contributors to the report include Draper Tools, KPMG, global farming and food group Barfoots, accountants Smith & Williamson, Marwell Wildlife, TW Metals, King Edward VI School and GO! Southampton.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--LETTER - Sharks are circling the United Kingdom

NOW the deadline is approaching for ending the transition period for the UK to leave the European Union it is @ @ @ @ @ to me that the sharks are circling , the UK is becoming a very remote @ @ @ @ @ political world .
President elect Joe Biden has already hinted the special relationship between the @ @ @ @ @ will not be so strong as it has been with previous Presidents .
Only last @ @ @ @ @ including a surfaced submarine in British waters which required the Royal Navy to escort them @ @

As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles.
Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services.
These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--LETTER - Seven young people a day are told they have cancer

EVERY day , seven teenagers and young people in the UK hear the devastating news that they have cancer .
@ @ @ @ @ nurse with this group for many years , and the way they adapt to such @ @ @ @ @ young age never fails to amaze me .
But they have been hit harder than @ @ @ @ @ .
Many have been unable to see their friends and have worries that their treatment @ @ @ @ @ fear catching the virus while their immune system is lowered and some have had to @ @ @ @ @ without loved ones due to infection control measures .
Donations to the charity I work @ @ @ @ @ , mean that we can provide young people with expert nurses to support them through @ @ @ @ @ coordinators to help them cope with anxiety and isolation – and at this difficult time @ @ @ @ @ than ever .
That ’ s why I ’ m writing to ask you to @ @ @ @ @ to our Christmas appeal , to help us continue our work www.teenagecancertrust.org/xmas

I have worked as a nurse with this group for many years, and the way they adapt to such challenging circumstances at such a young age never fails to amaze me.
But they have been hit harder than most by the coronavirus pandemic.
Many have been unable to see their friends and have worries that their treatment could be disrupted.
Others fear catching the virus while their immune system is lowered and some have had to face hospital visits and stays without loved ones due to infection control measures.
Donations to the charity I work for, Teenage Cancer Trust, mean that we can provide young people with expert nurses to support them through treatment and dedicated youth support coordinators to help them cope with anxiety and isolation – and at this difficult time they need our help more than ever.
That’s why I’m writing to ask you to consider donating a few pounds to our Christmas appeal, to help us continue our work www.teenagecancertrust.org/xmas
Dr Louise Soanes,
Chief Nurse, Teenage Cancer Trust


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Police called to Bow Lake Gardens in Bishopstoke for 'suspicious substance'

EMERGENCY services were called to a Hampshire residential street this morning following reports of a `` suspicious substance '' .
Police and fire crews arrived at Bow Lake Gardens in Bishopstoke at around 10am today .
An engineer attending to a junction box on the street found a barrel containing an unknown substance behind the box and reported it as `` suspicious '' .
Six fire crews and police arrived at the scene and set up a cordon in the area while the barrel was investigated .
Firefighters from Eastleigh , St Mary ’ s , Redbridge , Cosham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at around 10.20am to assist with the investigation .
But the barrel was found to not contain anything hazardous and the cordon was lifted .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said : `` We were called at around 10am this morning .
`` An engineer attending to a junction box in Bow Lake Gardens , found a barrel containing an unknown substance behind the box and reported it as suspicious .
`` Officers attended along with Hampshire Fire and Rescue and a small cordon was put in place while Fire officers examined the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identified to not contain anything hazardous and the cordon was lifted shortly afterwards .
`` There were no evacuations of residents . ''

Police and fire crews arrived at Bow Lake Gardens in Bishopstoke at around 10am today.
An engineer attending to a junction box on the street found a barrel containing an unknown substance behind the box and reported it as "suspicious".
Six fire crews and police arrived at the scene and set up a cordon in the area while the barrel was investigated.
Firefighters from Eastleigh, St Mary’s, Redbridge, Cosham, Winchester and Romsey arrived at the scene at around 10.20am to assist with the investigation.
But the barrel was found to not contain anything hazardous and the cordon was lifted.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "We were called at around 10am this morning.
"An engineer attending to a junction box in Bow Lake Gardens, found a barrel containing an unknown substance behind the box and reported it as suspicious.
"Officers attended along with Hampshire Fire and Rescue and a small cordon was put in place while Fire officers examined the barrel.
"The barrel was quickly identified to not contain anything hazardous and the cordon was lifted shortly afterwards.
"There were no evacuations of residents."


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Meet the new Amur tiger to arrive at Marwell Zoo, Hampshire

MEET the new tiger who has arrived at Marwell Zoo .
The Amur tiger arrived yesterday at the Hampshire wildlife @ @ @ @ @ is called Valentia and has come from Hodonin Zoo in the Czech Republic .
She @ @ @ @ @ companion for male tiger Bagai .
The new arrival comes after the unexpected death of @ @ @ @ @ in September .
Animal Collection Manager at Marwell , Ian Goodwin said : “ We @ @ @ @ @ to Marwell .
`` She ’ s settling in to her new home well and @ @ @ @ @ positive interaction with Bagai with lots of sniffing and chuffing through the fence .
Valentina @ @ @ @ @ we hope one day that she may mother cubs to help secure the future of @ @ @ @ @ are found in the Russian far east and north-eastern China , are endangered with less @ @ @ @ @ in the wild due to extensive habitat loss and poaching .

The Amur tiger arrived yesterday at the Hampshire wildlife park.
The endangered female is called Valentia and has come from Hodonin Zoo in the Czech Republic.
She joins the park as a companion for male tiger Bagai.
The new arrival comes after the unexpected death of a tiger at the zoo in September.
Animal Collection Manager at Marwell, Ian Goodwin said: “We are excited to welcome Valentina to Marwell.
"She’s settling in to her new home well and she’s had some positive interaction with Bagai with lots of sniffing and chuffing through the fence. Valentina is a young animal and we hope one day that she may mother cubs to help secure the future of this species.”
Amur tigers are found in the Russian far east and north-eastern China, are endangered with less than 500 believed to remain in the wild due to extensive habitat loss and poaching.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Coronavirus: Seven more deaths recorded across Hampshire

SEVEN further coronavirus deaths have been recorded across the county in the last 24 hours .
Figures published by NHS @ @ @ @ @ that seven more people have died with coronavirus .
Across the whole of Hampshire , @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March .
At Hampshire Hospitals NHS @ @ @ @ @ patients have , in the last 24 hours , been confirmed as having died from @ @ @ @ @ total death toll up to 224 .
A further four patients were recorded as having @ @ @ @ @ hours at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust bringing the total up to 304 .
No other @ @ @ @ @ county 's other Trusts .
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust has seen a total @ @ @ @ @ .
At Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust there have been 23 deaths since the start @ @ @ @ @ deaths at Solent NHS Trust .

Figures published by NHS England at 2pm today reveal that seven more people have died with coronavirus.
Across the whole of Hampshire, 783 people have died with Covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March.
At Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, three more patients have, in the last 24 hours, been confirmed as having died from the virus, bringing the total death toll up to 224.
A further four patients were recorded as having died in the last 24 hours at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust bringing the total up to 304.
No other deaths were recorded across the county's other Trusts.
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust has seen a total of 228 deaths since March.
At Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust there have been 23 deaths since the start of the pandemic and three deaths at Solent NHS Trust.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--MDMA worth £44million found stuffed in excavator

Three men have been arrested after £44million worth of MDMA was found hidden in machinery that had been shipped from Southampton to Australia .
The boom of the excavator had been lined with lead in a bid to conceal 450 kilos of the Class A drug .
But the 226 packages were revealed by an X-ray machine on March 15 .
The excavator was shipped from Southampton to the Port of Brisbane but was destined for Sydney .
Danny Brown , 53 , and German national Stefan Baldauf , 60 , were arrested in London by National Crime Agency ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Peter Murray , 57 , was held outside his home in Greenwich on October 1 .
All three have been charged with conspiring to export Class A drugs , while Baldauf was also charged with illegal entry in breach of a deportation order , and the men are due to appear at Kingston Crown Court on January 15 next year .
Australian Federal Police ( AFP ) arrested two men , aged 33 and 42 , in Sydney , who have also been charged .
Investigators believe a London-based crime group were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to Australia in heavy plant machinery .
MDMA , worth £44 million , that was found hidden in an excavator when the machinery was shipped to Australia The alleged plot was uncovered as part of Operation Venetic – the UK investigation into the EncroChat encrypted messaging platform which was shut down by the authorities in June .
Chris Hill , senior investigating officer for the NCA , said : “ This was a global conspiracy to import huge amounts of Class A drugs into the UK , then out to Australia .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ partners and analysis of encrypted messages recovered as part of Op Venetic , we were able to uncover this highly organised conspiracy and prevent the criminals behind it from making millions in illicit profits .
“ In the UK , this amount of MDMA could potentially make close to £18 million .
In Australia , profits would have been even higher – 79 million Australian dollars ( £44m ) if sold on the streets.
” The MDMA , worth £44 million , that was found hidden Canberra-based Mark Bishop , head of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : “ The AFP are a key partner in this effort and their ongoing support is vital in disrupting those international crime syndicates with links to Australia and the UK .
“ Throughout Operation Venetic alone , we have jointly seized two tonnes of cocaine , MDMA , and methamphetamine headed to , or in , Australia this year.
” Bruce Giles , AFP ’ s assistant commissioner southern command , added : “ Organised crime groups seek to move illicit goods in bulk whenever they can and however they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that hiding the drugs in machinery would be innocuous enough to avoid detection by Australian authorities .
”

The boom of the excavator had been lined with lead in a bid to conceal 450 kilos of the Class A drug.
But the 226 packages were revealed by an X-ray machine on March 15.
The excavator was shipped from Southampton to the Port of Brisbane but was destined for Sydney.
Danny Brown, 53, and German national Stefan Baldauf, 60, were arrested in London by National Crime Agency (NCA) officers on June 15, while Peter Murray, 57, was held outside his home in Greenwich on October 1.
All three have been charged with conspiring to export Class A drugs, while Baldauf was also charged with illegal entry in breach of a deportation order, and the men are due to appear at Kingston Crown Court on January 15 next year.
Australian Federal Police (AFP) arrested two men, aged 33 and 42, in Sydney, who have also been charged.
Investigators believe a London-based crime group were importing drugs into the UK before exporting them to Australia in heavy plant machinery.
MDMA, worth £44 million, that was found hidden in an excavator when the machinery was shipped to Australia
The alleged plot was uncovered as part of Operation Venetic – the UK investigation into the EncroChat encrypted messaging platform which was shut down by the authorities in June.
Chris Hill, senior investigating officer for the NCA, said: “This was a global conspiracy to import huge amounts of Class A drugs into the UK, then out to Australia.
“Through close working with our Australian partners and analysis of encrypted messages recovered as part of Op Venetic, we were able to uncover this highly organised conspiracy and prevent the criminals behind it from making millions in illicit profits.
“In the UK, this amount of MDMA could potentially make close to £18 million. In Australia, profits would have been even higher – 79 million Australian dollars (£44m) if sold on the streets.”
The MDMA, worth £44 million, that was found hidden
Canberra-based Mark Bishop, head of the Asia and Pacific region for the NCA, said: “The AFP are a key partner in this effort and their ongoing support is vital in disrupting those international crime syndicates with links to Australia and the UK.
“Throughout Operation Venetic alone, we have jointly seized two tonnes of cocaine, MDMA, and methamphetamine headed to, or in, Australia this year.”
Bruce Giles, AFP’s assistant commissioner southern command, added: “Organised crime groups seek to move illicit goods in bulk whenever they can and however they can.
“In this case they thought that hiding the drugs in machinery would be innocuous enough to avoid detection by Australian authorities.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Self-isolation for Covid-19 contacts cut to 10 days

The self-isolation period for contacts of a positive coronavirus case will be cut from 14 days to 10 days , the UK ’ s chief medical officers have announced .
Those required to quarantine after returning from countries which are not on the travel corridor list will also see their isolation period reduced , in an approach agreed by all four nations .
Health chiefs said in a joint statement that following a review of the evidence , they were “ confident ” that the self-isolation period could be shortened .
It comes as the weekly surveillance survey by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found that the proportion of people testing positive for Covid-19 is estimated to have increased in London .
There are early signs that rates may have increased in eastern England , according to the ONS , while rates have decreased in all other regions .
Elsewhere on Friday , the reproduction number , or R value , of coronavirus transmission across the UK is now between 0.9 and 1 , the Government Office for Science and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) said .
This is a slight increase from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be between 0.8 and 1 .
Changes to the self-isolation period already apply in Wales following an announcement by the Welsh Government earlier this week , while they will take effect in England , Scotland and Northern Ireland from Monday .
The new rules will apply to all those who are currently self-isolating , including those who began doing so before Monday .
“ Self-isolation is essential to reducing the spread of Covid as it breaks the chains of transmission , ” a joint statement by the health chiefs said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now confident that we can reduce the number of days that contacts self-isolate from 14 days to 10 days .
“ People who return from countries which are not on the travel corridor list should also self-isolate for 10 days instead of 14 days.
” They said those who test positive for Covid-19 should continue to self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of symptoms , or from taking a positive test if asymptomatic .
“ We urge everyone to self-isolate when appropriate , it will save lives , ” they added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty , Scotland ’ s interim chief medical officer Dr Gregor Smith , Northern Ireland ’ s chief medical officer Dr Michael McBride and Wales ’ chief medical officer Dr Frank Atherton .
People are most infectious in the first two days before developing symptoms , if they are symptomatic , and for a small number of days afterwards .
But by day 10 , only around one to two people in 100 are likely to still be capable of passing on the virus to others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes to self-isolation , people are still advised to avoid high-risk activities when this period ends due to a residual risk of being infectious .
England ’ s deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said the decision was based on a “ continuous accumulation of evidence ” throughout the pandemic .
“ And all of those combined together showed that the tail-end of infectiousness , if you like , is the one where an individual is least likely to transmit infection , ” she told reporters .
“ So allowing somebody out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is a reasonable balance between managing the risk to the public but allowing us not to intrude on their lives.
” NHS Test and Trace will tell people to self-isolate for 10 days from Monday , but due to the time taken to develop technical changes , the NHS Covid-19 app will only do the same from Thursday .
Those who receive a notification to self-isolate on the app prior to Thursday will be able to end their quarantine when the countdown timer says there are three days left .
Meanwhile , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the self-isolation period could be scrapped entirely in the new year .
In a pilot in Liverpool , contacts of a confirmed coronavirus case are to be tested daily for a period after exposure and are not asked to self-isolate unless they test positive for the virus .
This approach could be adopted nationwide in early 2021 dependent on the success of the pilots .
According to the ONS weekly surveillance survey , modelling suggests infection rates in England remain highest among secondary school-aged children and young adults up to the age of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unveiled more details on the areas in England where secondary school and college students will receive coronavirus testing .
Staff , students and families in secondary schools and colleges in parts of north-east London , south Essex and Kent are being urged to get tested .

Those required to quarantine after returning from countries which are not on the travel corridor list will also see their isolation period reduced, in an approach agreed by all four nations.
Health chiefs said in a joint statement that following a review of the evidence, they were “confident” that the self-isolation period could be shortened.
It comes as the weekly surveillance survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that the proportion of people testing positive for Covid-19 is estimated to have increased in London.
There are early signs that rates may have increased in eastern England, according to the ONS, while rates have decreased in all other regions.
Elsewhere on Friday, the reproduction number, or R value, of coronavirus transmission across the UK is now between 0.9 and 1, the Government Office for Science and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) said.
This is a slight increase from last week, when it was estimated to be between 0.8 and 1.
Changes to the self-isolation period already apply in Wales following an announcement by the Welsh Government earlier this week, while they will take effect in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland from Monday.
The new rules will apply to all those who are currently self-isolating, including those who began doing so before Monday.
Self-isolation for contacts of people with coronavirus shortened from 14 to 10 days across UK from Mon Change also applies to people instructed to quarantine after returning from non-exempt countries. And 'Test to Release' available after 5 days for non-Travel Corridor returns — Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) December 11, 2020
“Self-isolation is essential to reducing the spread of Covid as it breaks the chains of transmission,” a joint statement by the health chiefs said.
“After reviewing the evidence, we are now confident that we can reduce the number of days that contacts self-isolate from 14 days to 10 days.
“People who return from countries which are not on the travel corridor list should also self-isolate for 10 days instead of 14 days.”
They said those who test positive for Covid-19 should continue to self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of symptoms, or from taking a positive test if asymptomatic.
“We urge everyone to self-isolate when appropriate, it will save lives,” they added.
The joint statement was issued by England’s chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty, Scotland’s interim chief medical officer Dr Gregor Smith, Northern Ireland’s chief medical officer Dr Michael McBride and Wales’ chief medical officer Dr Frank Atherton.
People are most infectious in the first two days before developing symptoms, if they are symptomatic, and for a small number of days afterwards.
(PA Graphics)
But by day 10, only around one to two people in 100 are likely to still be capable of passing on the virus to others, according to experts.
Despite the changes to self-isolation, people are still advised to avoid high-risk activities when this period ends due to a residual risk of being infectious.
England’s deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said the decision was based on a “continuous accumulation of evidence” throughout the pandemic.
“And all of those combined together showed that the tail-end of infectiousness, if you like, is the one where an individual is least likely to transmit infection,” she told reporters.
“So allowing somebody out of self-isolation a short time earlier than that is a reasonable balance between managing the risk to the public but allowing us not to intrude on their lives.”
NHS Test and Trace will tell people to self-isolate for 10 days from Monday, but due to the time taken to develop technical changes, the NHS Covid-19 app will only do the same from Thursday.
(PA Graphics)
Those who receive a notification to self-isolate on the app prior to Thursday will be able to end their quarantine when the countdown timer says there are three days left.
Meanwhile, testing pilots are underway to examine if the self-isolation period could be scrapped entirely in the new year.
In a pilot in Liverpool, contacts of a confirmed coronavirus case are to be tested daily for a period after exposure and are not asked to self-isolate unless they test positive for the virus.
This approach could be adopted nationwide in early 2021 dependent on the success of the pilots.
According to the ONS weekly surveillance survey, modelling suggests infection rates in England remain highest among secondary school-aged children and young adults up to the age of 24.
On Friday, the Government unveiled more details on the areas in England where secondary school and college students will receive coronavirus testing.
Staff, students and families in secondary schools and colleges in parts of north-east London, south Essex and Kent are being urged to get tested.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Man accused of trying to murder Hampshire police officer

A MAN accused of trying to murder a Hampshire police officer has had his trial date set .
Thomas Gracey @ @ @ @ @ , was arrested following an incident in Basingstoke on April 12 .
Basingstoke Magistrates Court @ @ @ @ @ attended an address on Churchill Way to respond to a concern for welfare .
During @ @ @ @ @ , who is in his 20s , was stabbed with two knives , causing injuries @ @ @ @ @ and hands .
Gracey has been charged with attempted murder .
The officer is now @ @ @ @ @ work .
The 44-year-old remains on conditional bail before the next hearing at Winchester Crown @ @ @ @ @

Thomas Gracey, of Littlemore, Oxfordshire, was arrested following an incident in Basingstoke on April 12.
Basingstoke Magistrates Court heard yesterday that officers had attended an address on Churchill Way to respond to a concern for welfare.
During an altercation, the officer, who is in his 20s, was stabbed with two knives, causing injuries to his head, neck and hands.
Gracey has been charged with attempted murder.
The officer is now fully recovered and back at work.
The 44-year-old remains on conditional bail before the next hearing at Winchester Crown Court on January 13.


thedailyecho--2020-12-11--Bedknobs and Broomsticks world premiere set for Southampton

DISNEY 'S Academy Award winning movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks will make its world premiere as a stage musical , visiting Southampton in January 2022 .
Enter a world of magic and fantasy with Disney ’ s classic movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks .
With the original songs by the legendary Sherman Brothers ( Mary Poppins , The Jungle Book , Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ) , including Portobello Road , The Age Of Not Believing , The Beautiful Briny and new music and lyrics by Neil Bartram and book by Brian Hill , Bedknobs and Broomsticks will be brought to life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harrison .
When the three orphaned Rawlins children are reluctantly evacuated from wartime London to live with the mysterious Eglantine Price , they have no idea what adventures lie ahead .
Upon discovering Eglantine to be a trainee witch , they join forces to search for a secret spell that will defeat the enemy once and for all .
Armed with an enchanted bedknob , a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed , they encounter surprising new friendships on their journey from Portobello Road to the depths of the beautiful briny sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayflower Theatre from January 11 to 16 2022 .
Tickets go on sale on Monday from mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811 .

Enter a world of magic and fantasy with Disney’s classic movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks. With the original songs by the legendary Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), including Portobello Road, The Age Of Not Believing, The Beautiful Briny and new music and lyrics by Neil Bartram and book by Brian Hill, Bedknobs and Broomsticks will be brought to life by award-winning theatre-makers Candice Edmunds and Jamie Harrison.
When the three orphaned Rawlins children are reluctantly evacuated from wartime London to live with the mysterious Eglantine Price, they have no idea what adventures lie ahead. Upon discovering Eglantine to be a trainee witch, they join forces to search for a secret spell that will defeat the enemy once and for all. Armed with an enchanted bedknob, a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed, they encounter surprising new friendships on their journey from Portobello Road to the depths of the beautiful briny sea.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks will be at Mayflower Theatre from January 11 to 16 2022.
Tickets go on sale on Monday from mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811.


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Woman banned from Fareham caught begging again in Gosport

A HAMPSHIRE woman banned from a town centre for begging has been locked up .
Rebecca Connelly was handed a court order banning her from entering certain areas of Fareham town centre , and from begging for money , in November last year .
But last month the 29-year-old was caught begging again , in Victoria Street in Gosport .
The same day , she burgled a house on the same street between 6.50pm and 7.20pm when she stole £260 in cash .
Now Connelly , of no fixed address , has appeared before a court and been jailed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Criminal Behaviour Order ( CBO ) .
The 29-year-old was handed a CBO in November last year which prohibited her entering certain areas of Fareham town centre , and from begging for money .
At Portsmouth Crown Court she admitted the offences and was jailed for 10 months for the burglary , and an additional two months for breaching the CBO which will be served consecutively .
Gosport Inspector Matt Wake said : “ Rebecca Connelly is a persistent beggar in the Fareham and Gosport areas .
`` While we of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , this type of behaviour has a negative impact on people who live and work in the town and can sometimes be linked to other criminality .
“ This was the case for Connelly , whose behaviour escalated to committing burglary .
“ CBOs are imposed to prevent people from continuing this sort of behaviour , but there are those individuals who ignore the conditions and continue to break the law .
“ We encourage anyone effected by this type of behaviour , and by other forms of anti-social behaviour and associated criminal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can take action .
”

Rebecca Connelly was handed a court order banning her from entering certain areas of Fareham town centre, and from begging for money, in November last year.
But last month the 29-year-old was caught begging again, in Victoria Street in Gosport.
The same day, she burgled a house on the same street between 6.50pm and 7.20pm when she stole £260 in cash.
Now Connelly, of no fixed address, has appeared before a court and been jailed for a year for burglary and breach of a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).
The 29-year-old was handed a CBO in November last year which prohibited her entering certain areas of Fareham town centre, and from begging for money.
At Portsmouth Crown Court she admitted the offences and was jailed for 10 months for the burglary, and an additional two months for breaching the CBO which will be served consecutively.
Gosport Inspector Matt Wake said: “Rebecca Connelly is a persistent beggar in the Fareham and Gosport areas.
"While we of course sympathise with people’s individual circumstances, this type of behaviour has a negative impact on people who live and work in the town and can sometimes be linked to other criminality.
“This was the case for Connelly, whose behaviour escalated to committing burglary.
“CBOs are imposed to prevent people from continuing this sort of behaviour, but there are those individuals who ignore the conditions and continue to break the law.
“We encourage anyone effected by this type of behaviour, and by other forms of anti-social behaviour and associated criminal activity to report this to us so we can take action.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--More than 89k fines dished out for speeding across Hampshire

MORE than 89,000 drivers were caught speeding in Hampshire last year , Echo analysis can reveal .
This was 22 % more than the 73,031 logged during the previous year , and more than double the 8 % increase across the 43 police forces in England and Wales .
In Hampshire , cameras caught nearly all ( 98 % ) recorded speeding offences last year , which accounted for 93 % of all motoring offences over the period – compared to 85 % across England and Wales .
Speeding drivers in the area were sent on a speed awareness course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26,300 offences resulted in a fine .
Offences were cancelled in around 9,000 cases , while 6,700 resulted in court action .
Earlier this year , the Echo also revealed that 12,000 drivers were caught speeding through the M27 ’ s temporary 50mph speed limit since it was set up in February 2019 .
A Freedom of Information ( FOI ) request revealed how average speed cameras clocked 12,295 drivers breaking the temporary limit , between Fareham and Eastleigh , since it was introduced in February 2019 .
And as previously reported , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the number of drivers caught speeding at the start of lockdown in April , compared to a year earlier .
Speaking about the speeding figures , road safety charity the RAC Foundation said this could be down to a variety of factors , including differences in road networks , traffic volumes , policing priorities and resources , and the availability of detection technology .
The group ’ s director Steve Gooding said : “ Not for the first time there seems to be a patchwork approach to speed enforcement across England and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels of resource into catching those who break the limit.
” Across the country the number of people caught breaking the speed limit hit 2.6 million in 2019-20 .
Hampshire police did not comment when approached .

Home Office figures show that Hampshire Constabulary recorded 89,315 offences in 2019-20.
This was 22% more than the 73,031 logged during the previous year, and more than double the 8% increase across the 43 police forces in England and Wales.
In Hampshire, cameras caught nearly all (98%) recorded speeding offences last year, which accounted for 93% of all motoring offences over the period – compared to 85% across England and Wales.
Speeding drivers in the area were sent on a speed awareness course on around 47,300 occasions, while around 26,300 offences resulted in a fine.
Offences were cancelled in around 9,000 cases, while 6,700 resulted in court action.
Earlier this year, the Echo also revealed that 12,000 drivers were caught speeding through the M27’s temporary 50mph speed limit since it was set up in February 2019.
A Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed how average speed cameras clocked 12,295 drivers breaking the temporary limit, between Fareham and Eastleigh, since it was introduced in February 2019.
And as previously reported, Hampshire Constabulary had recorded a dramatic drop in the number of drivers caught speeding at the start of lockdown in April, compared to a year earlier.
Speaking about the speeding figures, road safety charity the RAC Foundation said this could be down to a variety of factors, including differences in road networks, traffic volumes, policing priorities and resources, and the availability of detection technology.
The group’s director Steve Gooding said: “Not for the first time there seems to be a patchwork approach to speed enforcement across England and Wales, with different constabularies dedicating varying levels of resource into catching those who break the limit.”
Across the country the number of people caught breaking the speed limit hit 2.6 million in 2019-20.
Hampshire police did not comment when approached.


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Crash on M3 near Winchester

Crash on M3 near Winchester

One lane of the M3 northbound has been blocked between junction 12 near Eastleigh and junction 11 near Winchester .
@ @ @ @ @ lane BLOCKED due to RTI between J12/A335 # Eastleigh and J11/A3090 # Winchester , heavy @ @ @ @ @ pic.twitter.com/GBdY9cSg0K — ROMANSE ( @ ROMANSE ) December 12 , 2020 The crash is causing @ @ @ @ @


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Southampton hospitals to get £2.3m in funding for upgrades

TWO Southampton hospitals are to benefit from £2.3m in funding to support upgrades and refurbishment.. Six projects across University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust and the Solent NHS Trust have been awarded a total of £2.3 million following successful applications to the fund .
The news has been welcomed by one Southampton MP , who said the money will `` help our NHS heroes '' .
The money will be spread between six projects at the two Trusts , which are now getting underway and will be completed `` swiftly '' up until March 2021 .
The funding is part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced in the summer to build an NHS that is fit for the future , which also includes plans to modernise mental health facilities , expand A & E capacity and improve infection control measures .
University Hospital Southampton is set to receive £1.7m , which is set to be spent on fire compartmentation and electrical infrastructure.. David Jones , director of estates at UHS , said : “ University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust welcomes this funding that will not only support the estate infrastructure , but will also allow the Trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the improvement of front line services.
” Solent NHS Trust will be befitting from a total of £616,000 , which will enable the hospital to carry out refurbishment and upgrade works to the roof of Bitterne Health Centre in Southampton as well as replacing a lift used by patients at St Mary ’ s Hospital in Portsmouth .
Gordon Fowler , Acting Chief Finance Officer at Solent NHS Trust , said : “ We welcome £616,000 of funding from the Department of Health and Social Care as it will enable us to carry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roof of Bitterne Health Centre in Southampton as well as replacing a lift used by patients at St Mary ’ s Hospital in Portsmouth .
`` These are two of the latest examples of how we remain focussed on delivering the best value for money so that our service users can continue to receive high quality care in the best possible facilities.
” Welcoming the news , Southampton Itchen MP , Royston Smith , said : “ It is very welcome news for Southampton that our hospitals have been awarded additional funding from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” “ All the staff working at our hospitals continue to do heroic work to care for patients with a full range of conditions whilst coping with the impacts of coronavirus .
This investment will only help our NHS heroes continue to provide world-class care ”

Six projects across University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust and the Solent NHS Trust have been awarded a total of £2.3 million following successful applications to the fund.
The news has been welcomed by one Southampton MP, who said the money will "help our NHS heroes".
The money will be spread between six projects at the two Trusts, which are now getting underway and will be completed "swiftly" up until March 2021.
The funding is part of the £1.5 billion capital funding which was announced in the summer to build an NHS that is fit for the future, which also includes plans to modernise mental health facilities, expand A&E capacity and improve infection control measures.
University Hospital Southampton is set to receive £1.7m, which is set to be spent on fire compartmentation and electrical infrastructure..
David Jones, director of estates at UHS, said: “University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust welcomes this funding that will not only support the estate infrastructure, but will also allow the Trust to direct its own capital funding to the improvement of front line services.”
Solent NHS Trust will be befitting from a total of £616,000, which will enable the hospital to carry out refurbishment and upgrade works to the roof of Bitterne Health Centre in Southampton as well as replacing a lift used by patients at St Mary’s Hospital in Portsmouth.
Gordon Fowler, Acting Chief Finance Officer at Solent NHS Trust, said: “We welcome £616,000 of funding from the Department of Health and Social Care as it will enable us to carry out refurbishment and upgrade works to the roof of Bitterne Health Centre in Southampton as well as replacing a lift used by patients at St Mary’s Hospital in Portsmouth.
"These are two of the latest examples of how we remain focussed on delivering the best value for money so that our service users can continue to receive high quality care in the best possible facilities.”
Welcoming the news, Southampton Itchen MP, Royston Smith, said: “It is very welcome news for Southampton that our hospitals have been awarded additional funding from the Government to assist with upgrade projects.”
“All the staff working at our hospitals continue to do heroic work to care for patients with a full range of conditions whilst coping with the impacts of coronavirus. This investment will only help our NHS heroes continue to provide world-class care”


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Police record 46 speeding drivers in the New Forest

POLICE said they are `` sad and disappointed '' after recording 46 speeding drivers in the New Forest in just @ @ @ @ @ and speedwatch members recorded speeds up to 68mph on the B3078 Roger Penny Way .
@ @ @ @ @ Heart Cops said : `` One driver even managed to pass us twice , speeding @ @ @ @ @ can not see us in high-vis , or a flashing sign , you are not @ @ @ @ @ Slow down . ''
The speed checks were carried out on Thursday December 10 .

Hampshire Police and speedwatch members recorded speeds up to 68mph on the B3078 Roger Penny Way.
A spokesman for New Forest Heart Cops said: "One driver even managed to pass us twice, speeding both times. If you cannot see us in high-vis, or a flashing sign, you are not going to see livestock. Slow down."
The speed checks were carried out on Thursday December 10.


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Christmas train travel - plan ahead due to engineering works

PASSENGERS in the south are being urged to plan ahead for train journeys due to closures and engineering works over Christmas .
South Western Railway have planned works across the network over the festive season .
No services will run on Christmas Day or Boxing Day ( December 25 or 26 ) .
The line between Clapham Junction and London Waterloo will see works at the Nine Elms junction .
There will be a reduced service on that line between Sunday December 27 and Sunday January 3 .
Vauxhall and Queenstown Road stations will be closed .
Works are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bridges and Andover station .
Engineers will close the line and a replacement bus service will run from Sunday 27 December to Sunday January 3 .
In the Portsmouth area , Network Rail are replacing track and renewing a railway bridge .
Buses will also replace trains between Fareham and Portsmouth Harbour from New Year ’ s Day ( January 1 ) to Sunday January 3 .
SWR are also asking railway passengers to keep safe whilst travelling over the festive period .
It comes as lockdown restrictions will be eased between December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are asking customers to plan ahead and buy mobile tickets where possible to avoid contact ; wear a face covering on trains and at stations ( unless exempt ) ; wash your hands regularly and keep a social distance between others .
SWR ’ s Chief Operating Officer , Mike Houghton , said : “ Working together with our customers , we want to make sure that every single one of our passengers can travel with confidence over the Christmas period .
We ’ re working hard to provide enough capacity for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also need our customers to follow some simple steps , such as planning ahead and wearing a face covering ” .
Check before you travel at www.southwesternrailway.com/plan-my-journey

South Western Railway have planned works across the network over the festive season.
Service will close early on Christmas Eve (December 24).
No services will run on Christmas Day or Boxing Day (December 25 or 26).
The line between Clapham Junction and London Waterloo will see works at the Nine Elms junction.
There will be a reduced service on that line between Sunday December 27 and Sunday January 3.
Vauxhall and Queenstown Road stations will be closed.
Works are also taking place between Basingstoke and Salisbury to bridges and Andover station.
Engineers will close the line and a replacement bus service will run from Sunday 27 December to Sunday January 3.
In the Portsmouth area, Network Rail are replacing track and renewing a railway bridge.
Buses will also replace trains between Fareham and Portsmouth Harbour from New Year’s Day (January 1) to Sunday January 3.
SWR are also asking railway passengers to keep safe whilst travelling over the festive period.
It comes as lockdown restrictions will be eased between December 23 and 27.
The travel company are asking customers to plan ahead and buy mobile tickets where possible to avoid contact; wear a face covering on trains and at stations (unless exempt); wash your hands regularly and keep a social distance between others.
SWR’s Chief Operating Officer, Mike Houghton, said: “Working together with our customers, we want to make sure that every single one of our passengers can travel with confidence over the Christmas period. We’re working hard to provide enough capacity for our passengers to travel safely, but we also need our customers to follow some simple steps, such as planning ahead and wearing a face covering”.
Check before you travel at www.southwesternrailway.com/plan-my-journey


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--'Please don't contact us': Hampshire hospitals urge public not to call about the vaccine

HAMPSHIRE hospitals are urging people to not contact the NHS to seek a coronavirus vaccine .
Hospitals across the county have asked local residents to not call , approach or contact the NHS in regards to getting their coronavirus vaccine , and promises that the Trust will contact you when the time is right .
It comes just days after the start of the biggest immunisation programme in history .
As previously reported , the coronavirus vaccination programme began on December 8 across the UK .
People aged 80 and over as well as care home workers will be first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS workers who are at higher risk .
Hampshire first local hub is located at Portsmouth University Hospitals Trust - one of the first 50 hubs to be rolled out during the first wave .
Next week , a number of GPs in Totton are expected to begin administering the jab .
AFC Totton Football Club based on Salisbury Road is to be used as a vaccination hub stating next week as New Horizons Medical Partnership on Hazel Farm Road and Testvale Surgery on Salisbury Road are set to receive almost 1,000 doses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Trusts are urging people to be patient as the vaccine begins to roll out across more of the county .
A spokesperson from University Hospital Southampton said : `` This will be a marathon , not a sprint , and over the coming weeks and months the NHS will keep expanding the programme as we get more vaccine , more sites , and potentially other vaccines come available .
`` The public can really help the NHS deliver this effectively to those who need it most . ''
They added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will contact you when it ’ s the right time to come forward , so please don ’ t contact the NHS to seek a vaccine before then .
`` Please act on your invite when it comes , and make sure you attend your appointments when you arrange them .
`` And of course , please continue to abide by all the social distancing and hand hygiene guidance , which will still save lives . ''
By not contacting the NHS , you are helping to alleviate the ever-growing pressure on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying times across the globe .
Speaking to the Daily Echo , the NHS confirmed that those ages 80 and over , care home workers , and some NHS staff will be the first to receive the vaccine .
These people will be contacted by their GP or the NHS via letter which will include all of the information they need such as the address of their local vaccination hub and their NHS number .

Hospitals across the county have asked local residents to not call, approach or contact the NHS in regards to getting their coronavirus vaccine, and promises that the Trust will contact you when the time is right.
It comes just days after the start of the biggest immunisation programme in history.
As previously reported, the coronavirus vaccination programme began on December 8 across the UK.
People aged 80 and over as well as care home workers will be first to receive the jab, along with NHS workers who are at higher risk.
Hampshire first local hub is located at Portsmouth University Hospitals Trust - one of the first 50 hubs to be rolled out during the first wave.
Next week, a number of GPs in Totton are expected to begin administering the jab.
AFC Totton Football Club based on Salisbury Road is to be used as a vaccination hub stating next week as New Horizons Medical Partnership on Hazel Farm Road and Testvale Surgery on Salisbury Road are set to receive almost 1,000 doses of the jab.
But now, the Trusts are urging people to be patient as the vaccine begins to roll out across more of the county.
A spokesperson from University Hospital Southampton said: "This will be a marathon, not a sprint, and over the coming weeks and months the NHS will keep expanding the programme as we get more vaccine, more sites, and potentially other vaccines come available.
"The public can really help the NHS deliver this effectively to those who need it most."
They added: "Our asks are [that] we will contact you when it’s the right time to come forward, so please don’t contact the NHS to seek a vaccine before then.
"Please act on your invite when it comes, and make sure you attend your appointments when you arrange them.
"And of course, please continue to abide by all the social distancing and hand hygiene guidance, which will still save lives."
By not contacting the NHS, you are helping to alleviate the ever-growing pressure on the county's Trusts and staff during these trying times across the globe.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, the NHS confirmed that those ages 80 and over, care home workers, and some NHS staff will be the first to receive the vaccine.
These people will be contacted by their GP or the NHS via letter which will include all of the information they need such as the address of their local vaccination hub and their NHS number.


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Homes in Southampton area only lottery winners can afford

Are you hoping of winning the lottery so you buy the home you 've always dreamed of ?
The latest Euromillions jackpot was £150 million - just imagine all you could do with that !
A new home is the first thing Brits buy when they win the lottery , according to the money site Hitachi Personal Finance .
Here are some of the million-pound pads in and around Southampton worth splashing the cash on if you win big : This immaculate family home in Romsey is more like a hotel than a home epitomising modern resort living .
Sitting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is nestled on the edge of the New Forest National Park .
A real millionaires playground this home has a swimming pool , cinema , home gym and more .
If you won the lottery ( big time ) you could afford to buy this incredible country home and have some money left over to modernise it .
The property sits on 1.25 acres and is located in one of the most sought after locations across the solent .
The gated entrance leads on to a large driveway with a four car garage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plenty of space to build up a large collection of Bentleys .
Straight out of Tatler magazine , this property is a brilliant show of wealth boasting equestrian facilities as well as a swimming pool and pool house .
This stunning 17th Century manor house is set in approximately 10 acres backing on to the River Hamble .
There are three stables , a tack room and paddock plus a secondary semi-detached home .
Find out more on Zoopla .
Have you ever dreamt of owning your own castle ?
Well , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This huge 10-bedroom home in West Wellow dates back to the Victorian era and sits on a stunning 40 acres of land which include paddocks , woodland and river frontage .
There is an impressive eight bay garage , tennis court and formal grounds as well as planning consent for a further five bedrooms , cinema room , games room and an indoor swimming complex .
See more on Zoopla .
Originally built in the 18th century as the New Inn , this property is steeped with history and is famous for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This lavish family home has endless character features including high ceilings , open feature fireplaces and more .
This Grade II Listed home sits on two acres of beautifully kept gardens with extensive private views of Greyladyes Park .
Find out more on Zoopla .
Which property is your favourite ?
Let us know in the comments .

The latest Euromillions jackpot was £150 million - just imagine all you could do with that!
A new home is the first thing Brits buy when they win the lottery, according to the money site Hitachi Personal Finance.
Here are some of the million-pound pads in and around Southampton worth splashing the cash on if you win big:
Six bed detached house
Gardeners Lane, East Wellow
£3,500,000
This immaculate family home in Romsey is more like a hotel than a home epitomising modern resort living.
Sitting on 12 acres of land this property is nestled on the edge of the New Forest National Park.
A real millionaires playground this home has a swimming pool, cinema, home gym and more.
View more incredible pictures on Zoopla.
Five bed detached house
Hook Park Road, Warsash
£2,750,000
If you won the lottery (big time) you could afford to buy this incredible country home and have some money left over to modernise it.
The property sits on 1.25 acres and is located in one of the most sought after locations across the solent.
The gated entrance leads on to a large driveway with a four car garage and another double garage - giving you plenty of space to build up a large collection of Bentleys.
For more details visit Zoopla.
Eight bed detached house
Church Lane, Botley
£2,500,000
Straight out of Tatler magazine, this property is a brilliant show of wealth boasting equestrian facilities as well as a swimming pool and pool house.
This stunning 17th Century manor house is set in approximately 10 acres backing on to the River Hamble.
There are three stables, a tack room and paddock plus a secondary semi-detached home.
Find out more on Zoopla.
10 bed detached house
Crawley Hill, West Wellow
£2,500,000
Have you ever dreamt of owning your own castle? Well, it's surprisingly cheaper than you might think.
This huge 10-bedroom home in West Wellow dates back to the Victorian era and sits on a stunning 40 acres of land which include paddocks, woodland and river frontage.
There is an impressive eight bay garage, tennis court and formal grounds as well as planning consent for a further five bedrooms, cinema room, games room and an indoor swimming complex.
See more on Zoopla.
Six bed detached house for sale
High Street, Bursledon
POA
Originally built in the 18th century as the New Inn, this property is steeped with history and is famous for starring in ‘Howards Way’.
This lavish family home has endless character features including high ceilings, open feature fireplaces and more.
This Grade II Listed home sits on two acres of beautifully kept gardens with extensive private views of Greyladyes Park.
Find out more on Zoopla.
Which property is your favourite? Let us know in the comments.


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Warning as man impersonates police officer in attempt to scam

POLICE have issued warning a warning after a man pretends to be a police officer in part of a new scam .
Officers are alerting residents to a scam in which someone pretending to be a police officer calls you and tells you your account is subject to fraud .
This week , an elderly gentleman , 84 , from Alresford near Winchester was targeted .
On Tuesday , 8 December , an 84-year-old man was contacted and asked to withdraw £5,000 .
The man phoned the police before parting with any money .
The scammers say that you must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being stolen from your accent .
They then send someone round to collect the cash in person .
They may also say that you need to withdraw the money in relation to an ongoing investigation against you .
The scammers often say they are from a police station in London , that they are working undercover , and that there is fraudulent activity in your account , when in fact it is them scamming you .
In this instance , the fraudsters said that the victim ’ s car had been involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to withdraw the cash .
They ask for your help and are very convincing .
A spokesperson from Winchester Police said : `` We want to remind you that a police officer would never call you and ask you for money .
`` No one , not even someone from your bank , would call you and ask for your financial details or to withdraw cash . ''

Officers are alerting residents to a scam in which someone pretending to be a police officer calls you and tells you your account is subject to fraud.
This week, an elderly gentleman, 84, from Alresford near Winchester was targeted.
On Tuesday, 8 December, an 84-year-old man was contacted and asked to withdraw £5,000.
The man phoned the police before parting with any money.
The scammers say that you must immediately withdraw money to protect it from being stolen from your accent.
They then send someone round to collect the cash in person.
They may also say that you need to withdraw the money in relation to an ongoing investigation against you.
The scammers often say they are from a police station in London, that they are working undercover, and that there is fraudulent activity in your account, when in fact it is them scamming you.
In this instance, the fraudsters said that the victim’s car had been involved in an investigation in London before asking him to withdraw the cash.
They ask for your help and are very convincing.
A spokesperson from Winchester Police said: "We want to remind you that a police officer would never call you and ask you for money.
"No one, not even someone from your bank, would call you and ask for your financial details or to withdraw cash."


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Warning to van owners after spike in thefts

POLICE have issued a warning to van owners following a spike in thefts .
Officers from Test Valley Police have reports a number of theft of tools from vans , or attempted thefts , in recent days .
The thefts have occurred across the Test Valley district .
Between December 2 and 3 , tools were stolen from a van parked on Sarson Close , Andover .
Tools were stolen from a van parked on Crescent Road , North Baddesley , overnight between December 7 and 8 .
A van was damaged after entry was attempted overnight between December 9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Pembroke Close in Romsey .
A van was broken into on Alma Road in Romsey on December 10 , nothing was stolen .
nspector Chris Taylor said : “ These are hardworking trades people having their livelihood put at risk by criminals .
“ Our local neighbourhood teams are conducting late night operations to combat this , and there will targeted patrols in hot-spot areas .
“ As you know we can ’ t be everywhere all the time , so we want to remind you to make sure your vehicle is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information from the public that can help us combat these offences .
If you know anyone who is selling second-hand tools and equipment please let us know by phoning 101 , or reporting online via our website .
”

Officers from Test Valley Police have reports a number of theft of tools from vans, or attempted thefts, in recent days.
The thefts have occurred across the Test Valley district.
Between December 2 and 3, tools were stolen from a van parked on Sarson Close, Andover.
Tools were stolen from a van parked on Crescent Road, North Baddesley, overnight between December 7 and 8.
A van was damaged after entry was attempted overnight between December 9 and 10, the vehicle was parked on Pembroke Close in Romsey.
A van was broken into on Alma Road in Romsey on December 10, nothing was stolen.
nspector Chris Taylor said: “These are hardworking trades people having their livelihood put at risk by criminals.
“Our local neighbourhood teams are conducting late night operations to combat this, and there will targeted patrols in hot-spot areas.
“As you know we can’t be everywhere all the time, so we want to remind you to make sure your vehicle is secure.
“We also welcome any information from the public that can help us combat these offences. If you know anyone who is selling second-hand tools and equipment please let us know by phoning 101, or reporting online via our website.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--Taller gates and fences to be installed at Eling Wharf

PLANS to improve security at a large industrial site opposite Southampton docks have been given the go-ahead .
Associated British Ports ( ABP ) has received consent to install taller gates and fencing at five locations around the edge of the 41-acre Eling Wharf , Totton .
Two years ago ABP bought the site in a multi-million-pound deal .
It was sold by Burt Boulton Holdings , which had previously been in talks with New Forest District Council over plans to create 350 jobs by building housing , leisure and retail facilities .
ABP said its purchase of the wharf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key role the site played in supporting the port of Southampton .
The company added : “ Port users have increasingly relied on Eling Wharf to support their operations as the port has become busier .
As we progressively enhance the site over the next five years , we will work with the council to explore longer term options for Eling Wharf . ''
Now the council has approved an application to increase security at the site .
A report to members said : `` The application relates to a number of individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ footway at Eling Lane .
`` The southernmost elements are located within/adjacent to Eling Conservation Area .
`` Residential properties are located on the opposite side of Eling Lane , some of which have an outlook that is directly towards the proposed fencing/gates . ''
The report says the new gates and sections of fencing will `` generally '' be higher than the ones they replace .
It added : `` It is proposed to erect replacement boundary fencing and replacement gates in five locations around the periphery of Eling Wharf to improve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report said the new weldmesh fencing would look more attractive than the existing palisade design .
`` The proposal is considered to represent an overall visual improvement in the street scene , '' it said .

Associated British Ports (ABP) has received consent to install taller gates and fencing at five locations around the edge of the 41-acre Eling Wharf, Totton.
Two years ago ABP bought the site in a multi-million-pound deal.
It was sold by Burt Boulton Holdings, which had previously been in talks with New Forest District Council over plans to create 350 jobs by building housing, leisure and retail facilities.
ABP said its purchase of the wharf was designed to secure employment and the key role the site played in supporting the port of Southampton.
The company added: “Port users have increasingly relied on Eling Wharf to support their operations as the port has become busier. As we progressively enhance the site over the next five years, we will work with the council to explore longer term options for Eling Wharf."
Disappointment as ABP buy Eling Wharf site
Now the council has approved an application to increase security at the site.
A report to members said: "The application relates to a number of individual sections of boundary that extend alongside the footway at Eling Lane.
"The southernmost elements are located within/adjacent to Eling Conservation Area.
"Residential properties are located on the opposite side of Eling Lane, some of which have an outlook that is directly towards the proposed fencing/gates."
The report says the new gates and sections of fencing will "generally" be higher than the ones they replace.
It added: "It is proposed to erect replacement boundary fencing and replacement gates in five locations around the periphery of Eling Wharf to improve security at the site."
The report said the new weldmesh fencing would look more attractive than the existing palisade design.
"The proposal is considered to represent an overall visual improvement in the street scene," it said.
CONTACT ME
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dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-12-12--When you can see the Geminid meteor shower this weekend

Break out the warm weather gear and turn your eyes to the skies for a shooting stars display this weekend ( hopefully ) .
Night-time sky-watchers can look forward to a celestial display of shooting stars on Sunday night , as the Earth passes through a cloud of cometary dust .
The Geminid meteor shower , which returns every December , is expected to peak some time during the night of December 13 and will be visible until the early morning of December 14 .
An absent moon will ensure that the meteors , which are widely regarded as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out brightly as they streak across the sky , with as many as 70 an hour .
The Geminids originate from a rocky asteroid called 3200 Phaethon with a comet-like orbit , and were first observed in 1862 .
The meteors , small pieces of interplanetary debris , appear to radiate from near the bright star Castor in the constellation Gemini .
Friction with the upper atmosphere heats up the incoming debris , causing the air around them to glow brightly .
This leads to streaks of light that are also known as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Observatory in Greenwich , the Geminids are unusual as they can be multi-coloured – mainly white , some yellow and a few green , red and blue .
These colours are partly caused by the presence of traces of metals like sodium and calcium , the same effect that is used to make fireworks colourful , experts at the Royal Observatory said .
The Geminids also have a slower closing speed than many other comets as they enter Earth ’ s atmosphere at an angle , travelling at about 79,200mph .
In comparison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Leonids at 162,000mph .
To see the shower , observers should look upwards after 10pm UK time on Sunday , when the radiant will be high in the south-eastern sky , experts at the Royal Astronomical Society said .
The best views are always away from city lights , but with a clear sky even urban skywatchers should see at least a few meteors , they added .
Sadly , the forecast looks to be overcast with showers on Sunday evening , but of course that could all change .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 17 .

Night-time sky-watchers can look forward to a celestial display of shooting stars on Sunday night, as the Earth passes through a cloud of cometary dust.
The Geminid meteor shower, which returns every December, is expected to peak some time during the night of December 13 and will be visible until the early morning of December 14.
An absent moon will ensure that the meteors, which are widely regarded as the most impressive of the year, stand out brightly as they streak across the sky, with as many as 70 an hour.
The Geminids originate from a rocky asteroid called 3200 Phaethon with a comet-like orbit, and were first observed in 1862.
The meteors, small pieces of interplanetary debris, appear to radiate from near the bright star Castor in the constellation Gemini.
Friction with the upper atmosphere heats up the incoming debris, causing the air around them to glow brightly.
This leads to streaks of light that are also known as shooting stars.
According to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the Geminids are unusual as they can be multi-coloured – mainly white, some yellow and a few green, red and blue.
These colours are partly caused by the presence of traces of metals like sodium and calcium, the same effect that is used to make fireworks colourful, experts at the Royal Observatory said.
The Geminids also have a slower closing speed than many other comets as they enter Earth’s atmosphere at an angle, travelling at about 79,200mph.
In comparison, the Perseids approach Earth at 133,200mph and the Leonids at 162,000mph.
To see the shower, observers should look upwards after 10pm UK time on Sunday, when the radiant will be high in the south-eastern sky, experts at the Royal Astronomical Society said.
The best views are always away from city lights, but with a clear sky even urban skywatchers should see at least a few meteors, they added.
Sadly, the forecast looks to be overcast with showers on Sunday evening, but of course that could all change.
The showers will continue to be visible until December 17.