thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Eight-year-old girl keeping Locks Heath clean

AN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD girl has got her friends together to clear up her local area .
Atillya Flewin , from Locks Heath , got the idea when she saw a man , Michael Hill , founder of litter picking group , Mundo Limpio , doing a clean up of his own .
When she saw the amount of rubbish that had been collected , she was ‘ shocked and mortified ’ by it according to mother , Karen .
From then on , the eight-year-old took it upon herself to make a difference and got five of her schoolfriends together to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nearby park .
Atillya ’ s mum , Karen said : “ It ’ s nice because the kids will be brought up knowing not to do what a lot of the teenagers round here are doing which is just chucking stuff and not caring .
“ They want to put up little signs asking children at the skatepark to not leave their cannisters and bottles on the floor to put it in the bin .
“ Whether that will work I don ’ t know , but they ’ re going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group , ‘ Litter Picking Club ’ and they now plan to go back to the park once a month to clear the area up .
The five friends collected things like beer bottles , plastic bags and paper , as well as Helium canisters that had been discarded .
Since doing this , the girls have been praised by their school , Saint Anthony ’ s Catholic Primary School , and even recieved an award for their efforts .
Karen said : “ Her school makes them quite aware of the environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think it ’ s great to get hold of them at a young age and teach it to them then .
“ If they start small at a young age , hopefully they will care more about the rest of the world when they ’ re older.
” Mundo Limpio founder , Michael provided the girls with litter picks and bags He said : “ I think a big part of trying to resolve the issue is to inspire people .
“ Its a really amazing thing that she ’ s done and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I inspired her .
”

Atillya Flewin, from Locks Heath, got the idea when she saw a man, Michael Hill, founder of litter picking group, Mundo Limpio, doing a clean up of his own.
When she saw the amount of rubbish that had been collected, she was ‘shocked and mortified’ by it according to mother, Karen.
From then on, the eight-year-old took it upon herself to make a difference and got five of her schoolfriends together to carry out their own litter pick in a nearby park.
Atillya’s mum, Karen said: “It’s nice because the kids will be brought up knowing not to do what a lot of the teenagers round here are doing which is just chucking stuff and not caring.
“They want to put up little signs asking children at the skatepark to not leave their cannisters and bottles on the floor to put it in the bin.
“Whether that will work I don’t know, but they’re going to try.”
They are calling their group, ‘Litter Picking Club’ and they now plan to go back to the park once a month to clear the area up.
The five friends collected things like beer bottles, plastic bags and paper, as well as Helium canisters that had been discarded.
Since doing this, the girls have been praised by their school, Saint Anthony’s Catholic Primary School, and even recieved an award for their efforts.
Karen said: “Her school makes them quite aware of the environment and litter and recycling.
“I think it’s great to get hold of them at a young age and teach it to them then.
“If they start small at a young age, hopefully they will care more about the rest of the world when they’re older.”
Mundo Limpio founder, Michael provided the girls with litter picks and bags
He said: “I think a big part of trying to resolve the issue is to inspire people.
“ Its a really amazing thing that she’s done and I feel quite proud of myself that I inspired her.”


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Motorist stopped in Telford Way, Southampton

A CONVICTED drink-driver has been banned from the roads for almost two years .
Andrejs Kirsanovs was more than three @ @ @ @ @ when he was stopped at Telford Way in Southampton .
Kirsanovs , 38 , of @ @ @ @ @ , pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol when he appeared at Southampton Magistrates ' @ @ @ @ @ told he had 107 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath when he was @ @ @ @ @ is 35 microgrammes .
Kirsanovs was banned from driving for 23 months and as well @ @ @ @ @ order that included a requirement to do 60 hours of unpaid work .
He was @ @ @ @ @ costs and a £90 victim services surcharge .

Andrejs Kirsanovs was more than three times the legal drink-drive limit when he was stopped at Telford Way in Southampton.
Kirsanovs, 38, of Tamor Gardens, West End, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol when he appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court.
The court was told he had 107 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath when he was stopped. The legal limit is 35 microgrammes.
Kirsanovs was banned from driving for 23 months and as well as being handed a community order that included a requirement to do 60 hours of unpaid work.
He was also told to pay £85 costs and a £90 victim services surcharge.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Colden Common man refused planning permission by Winchester City Council

A COLDEN Common resident has been told he can not develop land next to his house – despite being the legal owner .
Darren Holyoake had been seeking Winchester City Council 's permission to erect a detached timber building to use as a workshop and garden room .
This would have been on the greenspace between his property , 13 Hack Drive , and his neighbour 's at number 15 .
At a committee his plans , which received 24 public objections , were refused as they breached the parish council 's village design statement .
`` These houses were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open plan appearance , '' said parish council representative Debbie Harding '' Building this structure on the grass walkway is unacceptable .
Residents would lose too much of their greenspace . ''
City councillor Sue Cook added : `` This building would be rather overbearing .
It certainly does not comply to the local plan .
`` The dimensions would dramatically impact the amount of sunlight that house number 15 would get through the windows , and walkers may be under the impression that the space is no longer a walkway . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Holyoake at the meeting , did not see anything wrong with the plans .
She said : `` There would still be plenty of greenspace either side of the building .
The design is sub-serving to most of the buildings in Hack Drive .
`` These plans would allow the applicant to better use the side garden as well as tidy up some dead space . ''
Chairman of the committee , Cllr Therese Evans , agreed with Ms Blunt .
`` I believe that you should be allowed to do what you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as you follow the correct procedures in terms of planning , '' she said .
`` Those who wish to turn it down , I ca n't quite see what the planning reason would be . ''
Six out of eight members voted to refuse the application .
Mr Holyoake had also applied to convert the integral garage in to an annexe , which the committee had no problem with .
However , splitting an application is not allowed , so all proposals have been refused .

Darren Holyoake had been seeking Winchester City Council's permission to erect a detached timber building to use as a workshop and garden room.
This would have been on the greenspace between his property, 13 Hack Drive, and his neighbour's at number 15.
At a committee his plans, which received 24 public objections, were refused as they breached the parish council's village design statement.
"These houses were built in the 1970s to have an open plan appearance," said parish council representative Debbie Harding
"Building this structure on the grass walkway is unacceptable. Residents would lose too much of their greenspace."
City councillor Sue Cook added: "This building would be rather overbearing. It certainly does not comply to the local plan.
"The dimensions would dramatically impact the amount of sunlight that house number 15 would get through the windows, and walkers may be under the impression that the space is no longer a walkway."
But Kim Blunt, who represented Mr Holyoake at the meeting, did not see anything wrong with the plans.
She said: "There would still be plenty of greenspace either side of the building. The design is sub-serving to most of the buildings in Hack Drive.
"These plans would allow the applicant to better use the side garden as well as tidy up some dead space."
Chairman of the committee, Cllr Therese Evans, agreed with Ms Blunt.
"I believe that you should be allowed to do what you want with your land, as long as you follow the correct procedures in terms of planning," she said.
"Those who wish to turn it down, I can't quite see what the planning reason would be."
Six out of eight members voted to refuse the application.
Mr Holyoake had also applied to convert the integral garage in to an annexe, which the committee had no problem with.
However, splitting an application is not allowed, so all proposals have been refused.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Plans for Water Garden by Winchester Cathedral spark battle

THE planning battle over a much-loved Winchester beauty spot has erupted .
As of today , Alan Stone 's plans to build on Water Garden have received 480 public objections .
Back in 2018 , the former leader of Hampshire Ukip purchased the land off Colebrook Street , sparking fears that it would be developed .
At the time he promised this would not be the case , and is now facing huge opposition .
Ted Wake , the chairman of Hampshire Gardens Trust said : `` The Water Close Garden is an exquisite and perfect place that enriches this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most wonderful way .
`` For such a small space to create such a strong impact in this location is a reflection of the care , attention and foresight of the original designers and Sir Peter Smithers who left the garden as a fitting legacy for the people of Winchester .
`` Anyone who knows the Water Close Garden will know that it would be an act of reckless vandalism to destroy this place for the sole benefit of the owner whose purpose is simply to maximise their financial gain at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planning application states disingenuously that the Water Close Garden ‘ has no heritage significance ’ .
This is far from the truth . ''
Orange signs for the planning application only went up last week .
Members of the public have until November 11 to object .
The Water Garden was created by Sir Peter Smithers , who served as Winchester MP from 1950 to 1964 .
It features a pond , classical statue underneath a magnolia tree , only some 50 yards from the cathedral .

As of today, Alan Stone's plans to build on Water Garden have received 480 public objections.
Back in 2018, the former leader of Hampshire Ukip purchased the land off Colebrook Street, sparking fears that it would be developed.
At the time he promised this would not be the case, and is now facing huge opposition.
Ted Wake, the chairman of Hampshire Gardens Trust said: "The Water Close Garden is an exquisite and perfect place that enriches this corner of the heart of Winchester in the most wonderful way.
"For such a small space to create such a strong impact in this location is a reflection of the care, attention and foresight of the original designers and Sir Peter Smithers who left the garden as a fitting legacy for the people of Winchester.
"Anyone who knows the Water Close Garden will know that it would be an act of reckless vandalism to destroy this place for the sole benefit of the owner whose purpose is simply to maximise their financial gain at the expense of all else.
"This planning application states disingenuously that the Water Close Garden ‘has no heritage significance’. This is far from the truth."
Orange signs for the planning application only went up last week.
Members of the public have until November 11 to object.
The Water Garden was created by Sir Peter Smithers, who served as Winchester MP from 1950 to 1964.
It features a pond, classical statue underneath a magnolia tree, only some 50 yards from the cathedral.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Solent University graduate launches mental health film

A DOCUMENTARY about mental health created by a university graduate has now been released .
'Braking the Cycle ' is a documentary about how cycling can improve your mental health created by Solent University graduate , Harrison Read .
Harrison who studied BA ( Hons ) Sports Journalism , created the documentary over 10 days , interviewing several cyclists who have seen the benefit cycling has had on their lives .
The film is half an hour long and since being launched on Youtube , it has been promoted by Cycling UK during their online lockdown awards ceremony .
Harrison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ film this and get the message out their that cycling can improve your wellbeing .
`` Cycling UK got in touch really loved the film and they were doing their lockdown awards ceremony online , and during their awards ceremony they launched it for me .
`` It 's been really good .
People who I do n't even know have been messaging me and asking to share it .
`` A lot of people within the mental health services have got in touch with me to ask to spread it out to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released to coincide with World Mental Health Day .
Harrison is now looking for his next project and says it has to be something that is going to make a difference to other people .

'Braking the Cycle' is a documentary about how cycling can improve your mental health created by Solent University graduate, Harrison Read.
Harrison who studied BA (Hons) Sports Journalism, created the documentary over 10 days, interviewing several cyclists who have seen the benefit cycling has had on their lives.
The film is half an hour long and since being launched on Youtube, it has been promoted by Cycling UK during their online lockdown awards ceremony.
Harrison said: "The idea was to film this and get the message out their that cycling can improve your wellbeing.
"Cycling UK got in touch really loved the film and they were doing their lockdown awards ceremony online, and during their awards ceremony they launched it for me.
"It's been really good. People who I don't even know have been messaging me and asking to share it.
"A lot of people within the mental health services have got in touch with me to ask to spread it out to their patients."
The documentary was released to coincide with World Mental Health Day.
Harrison is now looking for his next project and says it has to be something that is going to make a difference to other people.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Eastleigh nursery named in top 20 settings across South East

A NURSERY has been rated as one of the top 20 nurseries in the South East .
Sherborne House Nursery in Eastleigh was rated parents after only opening in January of this year .
It was rated along with the other 2,014 early years settings in the area and will now receive an award from the leading day nurseries review site daynurseries.co.uk .
The award is based on the nursery ’ s reviews from the children ’ s families and carers .
Nursery Manager Lauren Kavanagh said : “ We are really proud that it is now possible for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flourish in our Nursery environment and use this solid foundation of learning to seamlessly progress through the school providing a launch pad for secondary education , no matter what the destination school .
`` We are very proud to offer children a high standard of care within a secure , inspiring learning environment where children are helped to develop , become active and learn independently.
” Attached to an independent prep school for pre-reception to children aged 11 years , Sherborne House School made the decision to expand its Nursery provision to meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursery has three rooms , 6 months - 2 years , 2 years - 3 years and 3 years - 4 years and lessons include French , P.E.
, music and drama .
Amanda Hopkins , reviews manager of daynurseries.co.uk , said : `` Being chosen as one of the best nurseries by family and carers of children that attend the setting is a huge achievement .
“ This year has been a huge challenge for nurseries , many of whom were offering childcare to vulnerable and keyworker children during lockdown and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and children that vital return to ‘ normality ’ .
“ We hope these awards will boost the spirits of nursery staff and give parents valuable guidance in choosing the right nursery for their child . ''
Sherborne House School and Nursery form part of the wider Bellevue Education group , which has 21 schools across its educational portfolio .

Sherborne House Nursery in Eastleigh was rated parents after only opening in January of this year.
It was rated along with the other 2,014 early years settings in the area and will now receive an award from the leading day nurseries review site daynurseries.co.uk.
The award is based on the nursery’s reviews from the children’s families and carers.
Nursery Manager Lauren Kavanagh said: “We are really proud that it is now possible for the babies in our school community to now flourish in our Nursery environment and use this solid foundation of learning to seamlessly progress through the school providing a launch pad for secondary education, no matter what the destination school.
"We are very proud to offer children a high standard of care within a secure, inspiring learning environment where children are helped to develop, become active and learn independently.”
Attached to an independent prep school for pre-reception to children aged 11 years, Sherborne House School made the decision to expand its Nursery provision to meet the needs of working parents.
The nursery has three rooms, 6 months - 2 years, 2 years - 3 years and 3 years - 4 years and lessons include French, P.E., music and drama.
Amanda Hopkins, reviews manager of daynurseries.co.uk, said: "Being chosen as one of the best nurseries by family and carers of children that attend the setting is a huge achievement.
“This year has been a huge challenge for nurseries, many of whom were offering childcare to vulnerable and keyworker children during lockdown and have now opened up fully, giving parents and children that vital return to ‘normality’.
“We hope these awards will boost the spirits of nursery staff and give parents valuable guidance in choosing the right nursery for their child."
Sherborne House School and Nursery form part of the wider Bellevue Education group, which has 21 schools across its educational portfolio.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Chandler's Ford estate agent receives national award

AN ESTATE agents has been awarded 'exceptional ' status at a recent awards ceremony .
Chandler ‘ s Ford independent Estate Agents , Sparks Ellison , was handed the honour at Estate Agency Masters ‘ Best Estate Agent Guide ’ award ceremony .
This is said to be the highest possible accolade an agent can achieve and an honour bestowed to only 5 % of the nations estate agents .
The ‘ Best Estate Agent Guide ’ awards are awarded for marketing , business results and customer service .
Adam & Mark , Co-Founders and Directors of Sparks Ellison comment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ellison have been genuinely incredible and we wanted to acknowledge the efforts they have put in .
`` They are by no means immune to the worries of the times in which we live but their resilience and positivity is an amazing thing for us to see .
`` We don ’ t think it is an exaggeration to say that they are drawing strength from the simple act of being able to look after other people and fulfil their dreams of moving .
`` That Sparks Ellison has been awarded such a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such high standards , is a tribute and reward for over 17 years hard work and dedication to be the best we can be . ''
Over 15,000 Estate Agencies are included in the assessment which is conducted by the Property Academy and the leading property website , Rightmove.co.uk .
Each office is scored using a combination of data analysis and mystery shopping from which the best agencies in the country are identified .
Peter Knight , the Academy founder , said : `` Only the very best agents make it to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ award .
`` For Sparks Ellison to be awarded our highest accolade , and be recognised in the top 5 % in the country , is truly amazing ”

Chandler‘s Ford independent Estate Agents, Sparks Ellison, was handed the honour at Estate Agency Masters ‘Best Estate Agent Guide’ award ceremony.
This is said to be the highest possible accolade an agent can achieve and an honour bestowed to only 5% of the nations estate agents.
The ‘Best Estate Agent Guide’ awards are awarded for marketing, business results and customer service.
Adam & Mark, Co-Founders and Directors of Sparks Ellison comment said: ”Our team at Sparks Ellison have been genuinely incredible and we wanted to acknowledge the efforts they have put in.
"They are by no means immune to the worries of the times in which we live but their resilience and positivity is an amazing thing for us to see.
"We don’t think it is an exaggeration to say that they are drawing strength from the simple act of being able to look after other people and fulfil their dreams of moving.
"That Sparks Ellison has been awarded such a high accolade, and still be hitting such high standards, is a tribute and reward for over 17 years hard work and dedication to be the best we can be."
Over 15,000 Estate Agencies are included in the assessment which is conducted by the Property Academy and the leading property website, Rightmove.co.uk.
Each office is scored using a combination of data analysis and mystery shopping from which the best agencies in the country are identified.
Peter Knight, the Academy founder, said: "Only the very best agents make it to the guide and the exceptional recognised with an award.
"For Sparks Ellison to be awarded our highest accolade, and be recognised in the top 5% in the country, is truly amazing”


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Outcome of appeal relating to site at Chapel Lane, Bransgore

A PROPOSAL to retain a fence that was built without planning permission has been rejected .
A government-appointed planning inspector @ @ @ @ @ retrospective application relating to a property at Chapel Lane in Bransgore .
The inspector 's @ @ @ @ @ site is occupied by a two-storey thatched cottage .
It is an attractive building which @ @ @ @ @ the street scene .
`` The tall close-boarded fence has introduced a more urban type @ @ @ @ @ runs for a considerable length and appears as a striking and unduly prominent feature within @ @ @ @ @ conclude that the development harms the character and appearance of the area . ''

A government-appointed planning inspector has refused to support a retrospective application relating to a property at Chapel Lane in Bransgore.
The inspector's report says: "The site is occupied by a two-storey thatched cottage. It is an attractive building which makes a positive contribution to the street scene.
"The tall close-boarded fence has introduced a more urban type of frontage.
"It runs for a considerable length and appears as a striking and unduly prominent feature within the street.
"I conclude that the development harms the character and appearance of the area."


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Appeal lodged over application for Fennel Gardens, Lymington

AN appeal has been lodged after civic chiefs rejected plans to build a house beside an existing property .
New @ @ @ @ @ ) refused to support an application relating to a site at Fennel Gardens in Lymington @ @ @ @ @ to consent to sever part of the plot and use the land to provide a @ @ @ @ @ But Lymington and Pennington Town Council urged NFDC to reject the proposal .
The authority @ @ @ @ @ objection from a Fennel Gardens resident who said the street was `` over-populated and can @ @ @ @ @ .
Announcing its decision NFDC said the scheme would result in a cramped and intrusive @ @ @ @

New Forest District Council (NFDC) refused to support an application relating to a site at Fennel Gardens in Lymington.
The applicant had sought to consent to sever part of the plot and use the land to provide a house with associated parking.
But Lymington and Pennington Town Council urged NFDC to reject the proposal.
The authority also received a letter of objection from a Fennel Gardens resident who said the street was "over-populated and cannot accommodate further dwellings".
Announcing its decision NFDC said the scheme would result in a cramped and intrusive form of development.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Southampton bus company Bluestar begins consultation

A SOUTHAMPTON bus operator has launched a consultation that could lead to an overhaul of ticketing .
Bluestar has announced it will be launching a consultation to discover the effects coronavirus has had on the travel habits of those living in the region .
The move could lead to an overhaul of ticketing and prices - to encourage an increase in the use of sustainable transport in-and-around Southampton .
The company is asking members of the public who use the service to come forward and take part in the consultation .
“ We are welcoming back a steadily growing number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are travelling with us for a number of reasons - for work , shopping and for other social occasions , ” said Bluestar head of communications , Nikki Honer .
“ This is very encouraging , as we have now increased our services back to pre-Covid levels .
But we understand people ’ s habits may have altered .
“ For example , commuters may be splitting their time between working from home and the office .
Some may have chosen to ‘ staycation ’ on the south coast , whilst others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have never been to before - perhaps a bit further afield .
“ In view of this , our existing ticketing structure may need a little tweaking .
Obviously , if our research shows people are happy with it already , them we will leave it the way it is .
We are always looking for ways to improve our offering - and our new consultation is a big part of that . ''
The company is keen to hear from those living and working in Hampshire - whether they currently take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out how they can make travelling in the region easier for them .
To take part in the ticketing consultation , visit www.bluestarbus.co.uk/ticketing-consultation

Bluestar has announced it will be launching a consultation to discover the effects coronavirus has had on the travel habits of those living in the region.
The move could lead to an overhaul of ticketing and prices - to encourage an increase in the use of sustainable transport in-and-around Southampton.
The company is asking members of the public who use the service to come forward and take part in the consultation.
“We are welcoming back a steadily growing number of customers on-board our buses, and they are travelling with us for a number of reasons - for work, shopping and for other social occasions,” said Bluestar head of communications, Nikki Honer.
“This is very encouraging, as we have now increased our services back to pre-Covid levels. But we understand people’s habits may have altered.
“For example, commuters may be splitting their time between working from home and the office. Some may have chosen to ‘staycation’ on the south coast, whilst others might be trying out pubs and eateries they have never been to before - perhaps a bit further afield.
“In view of this, our existing ticketing structure may need a little tweaking. Obviously, if our research shows people are happy with it already, them we will leave it the way it is. We are always looking for ways to improve our offering - and our new consultation is a big part of that."
The company is keen to hear from those living and working in Hampshire - whether they currently take the bus or not - to find out how they can make travelling in the region easier for them.
To take part in the ticketing consultation, visit www.bluestarbus.co.uk/ticketing-consultation


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--More deaths recorded in Southampton than this time last year

SOUTHAMPTON has recorded over 10 % more deaths in the first nine months of this year than last , official figures show .
The total number of monthly deaths across England and Wales rose in September for the first time since the first full month of lockdown in April , though deaths due to coronavirus were not in the top 10 leading causes .
Office for National Statistics figures show 1,517 deaths were recorded in Southampton between January and September – 14 % more than by the same point last year .
Of these , 135 occurred last month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Across England and Wales , 453,026 deaths were recorded by the end of September – 62,104 ( 16 % ) more than in 2019 .
The monthly total for September 2020 ( 42,432 ) was 6 % more than in 2019 .
Separate ONS figures show the age-standardised mortality rate in September due to Covid-19 was 12.6 per 100,000 people in England .
Age-standardised mortality rates are used to allow comparisons between populations that may contain different proportions of people of different ages .
This figure was up from 7.2 per 100,000 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
But the figure is still much lower than the peak of the virus in April when it was 623.2 deaths per 100,000 people .
The ONS said : “ In September 2020 , the number of deaths and mortality rate due to Covid-19 remained significantly below levels seen in March 2020 – the first month a Covid-19 death was registered in England and Wales .
“ However , the mortality rate due to Covid-19 was significantly higher in England in September 2020 compared with the previous month , August 2020.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 ” , which includes those where the virus is mentioned anywhere on a death certificate .
Professor Kevin McConway , emeritus professor of applied statistics at The Open University , said the increase in deaths from August to September in England and Wales was “ definitely not ” due to deaths directly caused by coronavirus .
He said : “ In both countries , the most common cause of death is dementia and Alzheimer ’ s disease , which is typical for this time of year , and indeed this has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole year since 2015.
” A Department of Health and Social Care spokeswoman said : “ Every death is a tragedy and our deepest sympathies go to the families and loved ones of those who have died .
Throughout the global pandemic the NHS has remained open for urgent care and we continue to urge anyone who needs healthcare to come forward .
”

The total number of monthly deaths across England and Wales rose in September for the first time since the first full month of lockdown in April, though deaths due to coronavirus were not in the top 10 leading causes.
Office for National Statistics figures show 1,517 deaths were recorded in Southampton between January and September – 14% more than by the same point last year.
Of these, 135 occurred last month, two fewer than in September 2019.
Across England and Wales, 453,026 deaths were recorded by the end of September – 62,104 (16%) more than in 2019.
The monthly total for September 2020 (42,432) was 6% more than in 2019.
Separate ONS figures show the age-standardised mortality rate in September due to Covid-19 was 12.6 per 100,000 people in England.
Age-standardised mortality rates are used to allow comparisons between populations that may contain different proportions of people of different ages.
This figure was up from 7.2 per 100,000 in August and is the first increase since April.
But the figure is still much lower than the peak of the virus in April when it was 623.2 deaths per 100,000 people.
The ONS said: “In September 2020, the number of deaths and mortality rate due to Covid-19 remained significantly below levels seen in March 2020 – the first month a Covid-19 death was registered in England and Wales.
“However, the mortality rate due to Covid-19 was significantly higher in England in September 2020 compared with the previous month, August 2020.”
These are different from those “involving Covid-19”, which includes those where the virus is mentioned anywhere on a death certificate.
Professor Kevin McConway, emeritus professor of applied statistics at The Open University, said the increase in deaths from August to September in England and Wales was “definitely not” due to deaths directly caused by coronavirus.
He said: “In both countries, the most common cause of death is dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, which is typical for this time of year, and indeed this has been the leading cause of death over the whole year since 2015.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokeswoman said: “Every death is a tragedy and our deepest sympathies go to the families and loved ones of those who have died. Throughout the global pandemic the NHS has remained open for urgent care and we continue to urge anyone who needs healthcare to come forward.”


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Plan to open tattoo parlour in Fordingbridge

PROPOSALS to open a tattoo parlour in the historic heart of a Hampshire town have been unveiled .
New Forest @ @ @ @ @ planning application to convert a shop in High Street , Fordingbridge .
The proposals have @ @ @ @ @ Perkins , of Lovingink Tattoos .
Mr Perkins is seeking consent to use the building @ @ @ @ @ and tattoo removal '' .
The district council has emailed details of the proposed development @ @ @ @ @ the organisation 's reply says : `` On the basis of the information available to @ @ @ @ @ you do not need to notify or consult us this application under the relevant statutory @ @ @ @ @ the application has not sparked any letters of support or objection .

New Forest District Council has received a planning application to convert a shop in High Street, Fordingbridge.
The proposals have been drawn up by Chris Perkins, of Lovingink Tattoos.
Mr Perkins is seeking consent to use the building for "tattooing, piercing and tattoo removal".
The district council has emailed details of the proposed development to Historic England.
But the organisation's reply says: "On the basis of the information available to date, in our view you do not need to notify or consult us this application under the relevant statutory provisions."
So far the application has not sparked any letters of support or objection.


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Plan for Nursery Road, Ringwood, thrown out

PLANS to build eight homes in a Hampshire town have been thrown out .
Civic chiefs have rejected an application relating to a site at Nursery Road , Ringwood , amid fears the proposed development would `` fail to improve '' the town 's conservation area as well as creating extra parking problems .
The application was submitted by the PC Crutcher Trust .
It sought consent to demolish outbuildings and turn the front of an existing building into a two-bedroom cottage as well as building six three-bedroom houses and a two-bedroom property .
The scheme also included 11 parking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Forest District Council said the proposed development would appear over dominant and would have a detrimental impact on the character of the area .
It also ruled that people and working near the proposed parking area would suffer from noise and disturbance .
The application said : `` This underused brownfield site represents an excellent opportunity to create new dwellings in an accessible location . ''
But Ringwood Town Council had urged NFDC to reject the application , which it described as over-development .
In a letter to the authority it said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ properties would be out of keeping and have a detrimental impact on the character of the area .
`` There would be a lack of amenity for the new properties , with little outdoor space and small gardens . ''

Civic chiefs have rejected an application relating to a site at Nursery Road, Ringwood, amid fears the proposed development would "fail to improve" the town's conservation area as well as creating extra parking problems.
The application was submitted by the PC Crutcher Trust.
It sought consent to demolish outbuildings and turn the front of an existing building into a two-bedroom cottage as well as building six three-bedroom houses and a two-bedroom property. The scheme also included 11 parking spaces in an inner courtyard.
But New Forest District Council said the proposed development would appear over dominant and would have a detrimental impact on the character of the area.
It also ruled that people and working near the proposed parking area would suffer from noise and disturbance.
The application said: "This underused brownfield site represents an excellent opportunity to create new dwellings in an accessible location."
But Ringwood Town Council had urged NFDC to reject the application, which it described as over-development. In a letter to the authority it said: "The general appearance of the properties would be out of keeping and have a detrimental impact on the character of the area.
"There would be a lack of amenity for the new properties, with little outdoor space and small gardens."


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--Dragons' Den style event values student's AI business at £700,000

AN INVENTION by a postgraduate student at Southampton University was valued at a record-breaking £770,000 at a Dragons ’ Den-style event .
Iris Kramer was offered investment of £70,000 in her ‘ deep learning ’ tool to help developers identify where archaeological sites are likely to be .
The Future Worlds accelerator event also saw investment offered in two other start-ups from Southampton students , bringing the combined total valuation of their businesses to more than £1.1million .
Iris Kramer ’ s invention , ArchAI , is the first in the world to apply artificial intelligence to the detection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laser scanning and satellite imagery to work out the likelihood of a given location containing an archaeological site .
Ground work can then confirm its report .
The investors rewarded Ms Kramer ’ s pitch with the biggest valuation in the event ’ s history , funding her so she can focus on product development , sales and marketing .
She said : “ Receiving this offer of investment has brought me much closer to achieving my vision of disrupting the commercial archaeology market .
“ Having spent years during my PhD honing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work with the Dragons to save time and costs for developers and protect our archaeological heritage both in the UK and internationally , ” she added .
ArchAI combines its inventor ’ s expertise from her masters in archaeological engineering and her PhD in machine learning , both at Southampton University .
The 27-year-old doctoral student made her pitch from 200 miles away in the Netherlands , where she is staying with her grandmother during the Covid crisis .
She was pitching to investors in the UK , France and Jersey .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites was a source of costs and delay for big infrastructure and development projects .
“ It ’ s a legal requirement before any construction can take place , they have to do all the archaeological research .
That takes six to 12 months and it ’ s a long time before they can start building anywhere , ” she added .
The event also saw aerospace engineering Dimitris Stoidis attract a pledge of £20,000 for his business Future Brew , a carbon-negative approach to brewing beer , which uses surplus bread as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Avila Chidume raised £15,000 for her business Kutenda , an online marketplace that celebrates the inclusion of underrepresented groups .
Ben Clark , Future Worlds director , said : “ Future Worlds Dragons ’ Den 2020 has seen immensely talented founders meet committed and supportive multi-millionaire investors to launch audacious startup adventures .
I ’ m inspired by how the ambitious students have battled through this year ’ s challenging process in lockdown to seize life-changing opportunities and reach for international success .
”

Iris Kramer was offered investment of £70,000 in her ‘deep learning’ tool to help developers identify where archaeological sites are likely to be.
The Future Worlds accelerator event also saw investment offered in two other start-ups from Southampton students, bringing the combined total valuation of their businesses to more than £1.1million.
Iris Kramer’s invention, ArchAI, is the first in the world to apply artificial intelligence to the detection of archaeological sites.
It uses data from laser scanning and satellite imagery to work out the likelihood of a given location containing an archaeological site. Ground work can then confirm its report.
The investors rewarded Ms Kramer’s pitch with the biggest valuation in the event’s history, funding her so she can focus on product development, sales and marketing.
She said: “Receiving this offer of investment has brought me much closer to achieving my vision of disrupting the commercial archaeology market.
“Having spent years during my PhD honing my technology, I’m excited to work with the Dragons to save time and costs for developers and protect our archaeological heritage both in the UK and internationally,” she added.
ArchAI combines its inventor’s expertise from her masters in archaeological engineering and her PhD in machine learning, both at Southampton University.
The 27-year-old doctoral student made her pitch from 200 miles away in the Netherlands, where she is staying with her grandmother during the Covid crisis.
She was pitching to investors in the UK, France and Jersey.
She said the need to identify archaeological sites was a source of costs and delay for big infrastructure and development projects.
“It’s a legal requirement before any construction can take place, they have to do all the archaeological research. That takes six to 12 months and it’s a long time before they can start building anywhere,” she added.
The event also saw aerospace engineering Dimitris Stoidis attract a pledge of £20,000 for his business Future Brew, a carbon-negative approach to brewing beer, which uses surplus bread as a main ingredient.
Southampton law graduate Avila Chidume raised £15,000 for her business Kutenda, an online marketplace that celebrates the inclusion of underrepresented groups.
Ben Clark, Future Worlds director, said: “Future Worlds Dragons’ Den 2020 has seen immensely talented founders meet committed and supportive multi-millionaire investors to launch audacious startup adventures. I’m inspired by how the ambitious students have battled through this year’s challenging process in lockdown to seize life-changing opportunities and reach for international success.”


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--LETTER: We should ban fireworks

LETTER: We should ban fireworks

Firework night is not too far away and all the enthusiastic parliamentarians are celebrating prematurely by what sounds like barrels of gunpowder being detonated every five minutes .
We all have to blame Guy Fawkes , the rascal who started it all , when he decided to re-arrange the structure of the Houses of Parliament .
Not one of them – he wanted the whole lot to go skyward .
I was thinking about his little indiscretion when there was an almighty bang which rendered me with a loss of hearing and an urgent need to change my trousers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time and he was n't too pleased either and after biting my leg he leapt into my arms , all three and a half stone of him , nearly knocking me off balance .
I was not a happy chappy , even less so now as every time some clown lets off one of their `` bombs '' , Rover snaps at me before diving under the table .
Much more of this and it will be all over for Rover .
So lets ban these noisy , deafening fireworks before I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP , throw a wobbler , and build a bomb shelter .

We all have to blame Guy Fawkes, the rascal who started it all, when he decided to re-arrange the structure of the Houses of Parliament.
Not one of them – he wanted the whole lot to go skyward. I was thinking about his little indiscretion when there was an almighty bang which rendered me with a loss of hearing and an urgent need to change my trousers.
I was walking my dog Rover at the time and he wasn't too pleased either and after biting my leg he leapt into my arms, all three and a half stone of him, nearly knocking me off balance.
I was not a happy chappy, even less so now as every time some clown lets off one of their "bombs", Rover snaps at me before diving under the table.
Much more of this and it will be all over for Rover.
So lets ban these noisy, deafening fireworks before I contact the Blue Cross, contact my MP, throw a wobbler, and build a bomb shelter.
Peter Green
Email


thedailyecho--2020-11-02--LETTER: I am amazed Desmond Swayne harps on about how he believes Covid-19 isn't a threat

I am amazed that Desmond Swayne , MP for New Forest West , wastes the opportunity to have space within the local press , to continually harp on about how he believes , Covid 19 , is not much of a threat .
Nearly every week , he is informing readers , he is right and everybody else is wrong .
He is against lock downs , as he does not accept scientists opinion , given to the Government .
Within his own column , he as usual argues with himself .
How often have to seen Desmond Swayne sitting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons looking totally bored and doing , nothing ?
Answer , too often !
He claims that lock downs effect mental and well being of people .
I do n't expect anyone disagree with that , apart from , catching Covid 19 is far worse .
And deadly .
Than , having to take the necessary precautions in the attempt to save lives .
He is worried about the effect upon businesses .
His Government have thrown billions and billions of pounds in supporting businesses and people who can not now go to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worse debts in the world .
Business owners , also could accept that by shutting down , they are protecting their own lives and those around them .
In effect , they are breaking Health & Safety rules by not complying , as the MP appears to want them to do .
I quote from his recent comment 'most dissent comes however from within the governing party itself .
This is because the coronavirus strategy has been particularly difficult for the Conservatives like myself , for whom the belief that individuals make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that case , Mr. Swayne , you can stand down as you are not worth your salary .
He also writes , 'As Winston Churchill summed it up , `` trust the people '' .
We the people , do trust each other , more than you Mr. Swayne .
People all over the Country including New Forest West , do not want to die .
You , as a Brexiteer have made matters worse through making EU nurses ad doctors feel unwelcomed .
You forget , Winston Churchill founded the European Movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not run away from them .
Your leader , keeps on telling us that outside of the EU , we have so many opportunities to offer , from this wonderful Country of ours .
But , he nor you , have not told us what those are !
Finally , Winston Churchill was for a while a Liberal .
He was never an outright Tory .

Nearly every week, he is informing readers, he is right and everybody else is wrong. He is against lock downs, as he does not accept scientists opinion, given to the Government. Within his own column, he as usual argues with himself.
How often have to seen Desmond Swayne sitting on the benches within the House of Commons looking totally bored and doing, nothing? Answer, too often!
He claims that lock downs effect mental and well being of people. I don't expect anyone disagree with that, apart from, catching Covid 19 is far worse. And deadly. Than, having to take the necessary precautions in the attempt to save lives.
He is worried about the effect upon businesses. His Government have thrown billions and billions of pounds in supporting businesses and people who can not now go to work. We now have one of the worse debts in the world.
Business owners, also could accept that by shutting down, they are protecting their own lives and those around them.
In effect, they are breaking Health & Safety rules by not complying, as the MP appears to want them to do.
I quote from his recent comment 'most dissent comes however from within the governing party itself. This is because the coronavirus strategy has been particularly difficult for the Conservatives like myself, for whom the belief that individuals make better decisions for themselves'.
In that case, Mr. Swayne, you can stand down as you are not worth your salary.
He also writes, 'As Winston Churchill summed it up, "trust the people".
We the people, do trust each other, more than you Mr. Swayne.
People all over the Country including New Forest West, do not want to die.
You, as a Brexiteer have made matters worse through making EU nurses ad doctors feel unwelcomed. You forget, Winston Churchill founded the European Movement, so that we did join forces, not run away from them.
Your leader, keeps on telling us that outside of the EU, we have so many opportunities to offer, from this wonderful Country of ours.
But, he nor you, have not told us what those are!
Finally, Winston Churchill was for a while a Liberal. He was never an outright Tory.
Richard Grant
Ringwood


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Headteacher of Southampton school confirms 27 COVID cases

The headteacher of a Southampton high school has sent a letter to parents confirming more than 25 Covid-19 cases in students and staff - with himself included in the figure .
Stuart Woods , headteacher of Upper Shirley High on Bellemoor Road confirmed the cases whilst self-isolating and said he has `` every faith in [ his ] excellent team of staff . ''
• School staff worried over 'difficult social distancing ' and 'close contact ' with pupils The letter read : `` To confirm , we have 23 reported student cases and 4 staff absent due to Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this number , although I continue to lead the school remotely and have every faith in my excellent team of staff . ''
Mr Woods outlined safety precautions planned in the school to limit the spread of the virus , including pupils wearing facemaks .
He wrote : `` USH is joining with other secondary schools to ask students to wear face-coverings in lessons , as well as when moving about the school .
`` This is a new and additional measure to help us stay open and keep providing face-to-face education throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means it is all the more important that you provide your child with appropriate face-coverings to wear in and around school and ensure they have a spare/washable replacement . ''
The facemask rule will be a 28 day trial starting from today and will be evaluated by staff on a weekly basis .
• LISTED : The roads set to close outside Southampton schools The letter also encouraged parents to speak to their children about effective hand-hygiene and the importance of socially distancing from friends .
Mr Woods warned that a strategy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timetable changes may be requires to reduce transmission rates .
He wrote : `` In the event of student cases rising further , we may need to inform you that your child ’ s class , or if necessary , your child ’ s year group , needs to self-isolate for a period of two weeks to break the chain of transmission ... We adopted this approach for Year 9 and Public Health England have endorsed this decision . ''
Parents were reassured that `` full time on-site provision '' would still apply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children of key workers would also be supported .
Mr Woods said : `` Watching the news , it ’ s clear this half-term will bring fresh challenges to schools , but USH remains resolutely here for our children and families . ''

Stuart Woods, headteacher of Upper Shirley High on Bellemoor Road confirmed the cases whilst self-isolating and said he has "every faith in [his] excellent team of staff."
The letter read: "To confirm, we have 23 reported student cases and 4 staff absent due to Covid.
"I am currently included in this number, although I continue to lead the school remotely and have every faith in my excellent team of staff."
Mr Woods outlined safety precautions planned in the school to limit the spread of the virus, including pupils wearing facemaks.
He wrote: "USH is joining with other secondary schools to ask students to wear face-coverings in lessons, as well as when moving about the school.
"This is a new and additional measure to help us stay open and keep providing face-to-face education throughout this pandemic.
"This preventative measure means it is all the more important that you provide your child with appropriate face-coverings to wear in and around school and ensure they have a spare/washable replacement."
The facemask rule will be a 28 day trial starting from today and will be evaluated by staff on a weekly basis.
The letter also encouraged parents to speak to their children about effective hand-hygiene and the importance of socially distancing from friends. Mr Woods warned that a strategy of entire year groups self-isolating at once or timetable changes may be requires to reduce transmission rates.
He wrote: "In the event of student cases rising further, we may need to inform you that your child’s class, or if necessary, your child’s year group, needs to self-isolate for a period of two weeks to break the chain of transmission...We adopted this approach for Year 9 and Public Health England have endorsed this decision."
Parents were reassured that "full time on-site provision" would still apply for students with educational support needs and children of key workers would also be supported.
Mr Woods said: "Watching the news, it’s clear this half-term will bring fresh challenges to schools, but USH remains resolutely here for our children and families."


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Murder probe into missing Southampton woman Joanne Sheen

A MURDER probe has been launched following the disappearance of a Southampton woman .
Jo Sheen was reported missing on February 22 this year having not been seen by her family for several months .
Police have now opened a murder investigation and today made three arrests .
The 44-year-old is still missing and her body has not been recovered .
• Police find car following search for Southampton woman who has been missing for six months • A 50-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on conspiracy to murder • A 63-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Basingstoke has been arrested on conspiracy to murder All three remain in police custody at this time .
The last known corroborated sighting of Jo is on Thursday 5 December 2019 when she travelled from Fareham , back to Southampton , with a friend .
• Police search River Itchen for Southampton woman missing for six months Multiple appeals have been made by police since then in an effort to trace her .
A police spokesperson said : `` We continue to appeal for information in relation to this case .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assist us with this investigation , please get in touch by calling 101 and quoting Operation Blackboard or 44200068330 .

Jo Sheen was reported missing on February 22 this year having not been seen by her family for several months.
Police have now opened a murder investigation and today made three arrests.
The 44-year-old is still missing and her body has not been recovered.
Officers have arrested three people:
• A 50-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on conspiracy to murder
• A 63-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on conspiracy to murder
• A 29-year-old man from Basingstoke has been arrested on conspiracy to murder
All three remain in police custody at this time.
The last known corroborated sighting of Jo is on Thursday 5 December 2019 when she travelled from Fareham, back to Southampton, with a friend.
Multiple appeals have been made by police since then in an effort to trace her.
A police spokesperson said: "We continue to appeal for information in relation to this case.
"If anyone has any information that may assist us with this investigation, please get in touch by calling 101 and quoting Operation Blackboard or 44200068330.
"Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Hampshire police dish out 92 fines for Halloween Covid breaches

HAMPSHIRE police issued 92 on-the-spot fines over Halloween weekend as people flouted rules aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus .
Officers say they were called to a spate of incidents involving revellers who were risking their health - and the health of loved ones - by hosting house parties and generally breaching the Rule of Six .
People attending a house party at Gordon Avenue , Southampton , tried to get away from police by running out of the back door .
In another incident officers investigating reports of an assault were spat at by someone claiming he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In total we attended 33 incidents where health regulations were being breached , and issued 92 fines .
`` Over Friday and Saturday night we issued 12 Fixed Penalty Notices to people having a house party at a property in Sherborne Road , Southampton .
`` We issued 25 fines to one group of people who were found to be having a house party at a property in Osbourne Road North , Southampton .
`` We then issued an additional 30 Fixed Penalty Notices to people at a house party on Gordon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrival many people tried to get away by running out of the back of the house .
All those found to be attending were issued with individual fines . ''
`` Despite the national announcement on Saturday regarding the increasing risks of the virus transmission and stricter measures , in Winchester a man was reported for a breach of Covid regulations after he allowed more than six people to gather in his house .
`` Officers attending the report of an assault at a home in Southsea on November 1 were spat at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man claiming he had coronavirus . ''
Assistance Chief Constable Maggie Blyth added : “ The only way we can get this virus under control and save lives is by everyone in the community sticking to the legislation and taking responsibility .
“ The health regulations are in place to protect you , your friends , your families .
`` But this weekend has proved there are always a few people who ignore what is best for them and others , and make decisions that put other people ’ s lives at risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we attended on Saturday night were house parties organised by adults and attended by significantly more than six people .
`` Where this is still happening our enforcement activity is , by necessity , focused and robust . ''

Officers say they were called to a spate of incidents involving revellers who were risking their health - and the health of loved ones - by hosting house parties and generally breaching the Rule of Six.
People attending a house party at Gordon Avenue, Southampton, tried to get away from police by running out of the back door.
In another incident officers investigating reports of an assault were spat at by someone claiming he had coronavirus.
A police spokesperson said: "In total we attended 33 incidents where health regulations were being breached, and issued 92 fines.
"Over Friday and Saturday night we issued 12 Fixed Penalty Notices to people having a house party at a property in Sherborne Road, Southampton.
"We issued 25 fines to one group of people who were found to be having a house party at a property in Osbourne Road North, Southampton.
"We then issued an additional 30 Fixed Penalty Notices to people at a house party on Gordon Avenue, Southampton.
"On our arrival many people tried to get away by running out of the back of the house. All those found to be attending were issued with individual fines."
"Despite the national announcement on Saturday regarding the increasing risks of the virus transmission and stricter measures, in Winchester a man was reported for a breach of Covid regulations after he allowed more than six people to gather in his house.
"Officers attending the report of an assault at a home in Southsea on November 1 were spat at, sneezed and coughed at by a man claiming he had coronavirus."
Assistance Chief Constable Maggie Blyth added: “The only way we can get this virus under control and save lives is by everyone in the community sticking to the legislation and taking responsibility.
“The health regulations are in place to protect you, your friends, your families.
"But this weekend has proved there are always a few people who ignore what is best for them and others, and make decisions that put other people’s lives at risk.
"The majority of the incidents we attended on Saturday night were house parties organised by adults and attended by significantly more than six people.
"Where this is still happening our enforcement activity is, by necessity, focused and robust."


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Southampton man charged following stabbing in Eastleigh home

A MAN has been charged following a stabbing in Eastleigh .
Officers investigating reports of a disturbance at a property @ @ @ @ @ Eastleigh , has charged a man .
It comes after a home was broken into @ @ @ @ @ and stabbed in the early hours of November 1 .
Daniel James Poskitt , 31 @ @ @ @ @ Southampton was charged with one count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent , one @ @ @ @ @ count of assaulting by beating of an emergency worker .
He appeared at Southampton Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ ) , where he was denied bail and remanded to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court @ @ @ @ @

Officers investigating reports of a disturbance at a property in Tommy Green Walk, Eastleigh, has charged a man.
It comes after a home was broken into and a man was threatened and stabbed in the early hours of November 1.
Daniel James Poskitt, 31, of Franklyn Avenue, Southampton was charged with one count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, one count of burglary and one count of assaulting by beating of an emergency worker.
He appeared at Southampton Magistrates Court yesterday (2 November), where he was denied bail and remanded to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on 4 December 2020.


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Road rage attacker wearing red football shirt punched man in face near M27

A ROAD rage attacker in a red football shirt punched another driver in the face near the M27 .
The @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday , October 31 , near Southampton Airport and the slip road to the @ @ @ @ @ Police say a black Nissan Qashqai became aggressive towards a driver who had stopped at @ @ @ @ @ his horn .
The driver of the Nissan then pulled in front of the victim @ @ @ @ @ his window , opened his door , and punched him in the face before fleeing @ @ @ @ @ as being an Asian man in his late 20s , about five feet seven inches @ @ @ @ @ and a moustache .
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said : `` Were you on the @ @ @ @ @ Did you witness the incident ?
Perhaps you have dash-cam footage that could help our @ @ @ @ @ information is asked to call 101 , quoting the reference 44200422428 .
Alternatively , you @ @ @ @ @ anonymously on 0800 555 111.
``

The incident happened at about 10.35am on Saturday, October 31, near Southampton Airport and the slip road to the M27 eastbound and A33.
Police say a black Nissan Qashqai became aggressive towards a driver who had stopped at a roundabout and began beeping his horn.
The driver of the Nissan then pulled in front of the victim's care, came to his window, opened his door, and punched him in the face before fleeing.
The suspect is described as being an Asian man in his late 20s, about five feet seven inches tall, with brown hair and a moustache.
He was wearing a red football top.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: "Were you on the road at the time? Did you witness the incident? Perhaps you have dash-cam footage that could help our investigation?
"Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting the reference 44200422428. Alternatively, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. "


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Woman seen sitting on railings on the Itchen Bridge

EMERGENCY services rushed to Itchen Bridge last night to reports of a woman sat on railings .
Police raced to @ @ @ @ @ after a woman was spotted sitting on the railings .
The woman was later detained @ @ @ @ @ .
A police spokesperson said : `` We were called at 5.33pm on 2 November @ @ @ @ @ for welfare after a woman was seen sat on the railings of the Itchen Bridge @ @ @ @ @ attended and the incident was resolved .
The woman was detained under the Mental Health @ @ @ @ @ appropriate care . ''

Police raced to Itchen Bridge at around 5.30pm after a woman was spotted sitting on the railings.
The woman was later detained under the mental health act.
A police spokesperson said: "We were called at 5.33pm on 2 November to reports of a concern for welfare after a woman was seen sat on the railings of the Itchen Bridge, Southampton.
"Officers attended and the incident was resolved. The woman was detained under the Mental Health Act and transferred into the appropriate care."


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--LIVE: Covid-19 updates on November 3 from Southampton

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thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Firefighters attend bush fire in Holbury

Firefighters raced to a bush fire in the early hours of this morning .
Crews first responded to the scene @ @ @ @ @ Another section of fire was later discovered , promptong more firefighters to join the efforts @ @ @ @ @ to buildings and cars .
Crews are working with Hampshire Constabulary to work our the @ @ @ @ @


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Hythe man accused of raping teen

Hythe man accused of raping teen

A MAN has appeared in court accused of sexually abusing and raping a young girl and asking her how she lost her virginity .
Stephen Boyt was charged with sexually abusing a young girl over the course of a more than a decade , a court heard .
He faces nine charges which include raping his victim and a string of sexual assaults - he denies all accusations .
The 69-year-old of Beech Crescent , Hythe appeared at Southampton Crown Court on Monday where he stands trial .
The alleged campaign of historical abuse is said to have taken place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the 80s and 90s .
Video footage played to members of a jury showed his alleged victim sobbing and clutching a tissue during a police interview .
After raping her , he is said to have asked how she lost her virginity .
Struggling to compose herself and answer questions , she said how he told her no one would believe her claims he had abused her .
The woman finally reported the abuse to police in August 2018 after suffering a breakdown .
During the interview , she told how Boyt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while at Eaglehurst House near Calshot .
She said : “ I just want to go away and cry .
“ I just want to be on my own .
“ Take me away , anywhere but here.
” She described Boyt as medium build , with a ponytail and said he would wear a Harley Davidson t-shirt .
Boyt was spoken to by police on November 14 , 2018 , and denied the accusations .
Prosecution barrister , David Richards told the court how Boyt claimed the victim wanted to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was putting her up to it ” .

Stephen Boyt was charged with sexually abusing a young girl over the course of a more than a decade, a court heard.
He faces nine charges which include raping his victim and a string of sexual assaults - he denies all accusations.
The 69-year-old of Beech Crescent, Hythe appeared at Southampton Crown Court on Monday where he stands trial.
The alleged campaign of historical abuse is said to have taken place across Netley View, Calshot and Fawley during the 80s and 90s.
Video footage played to members of a jury showed his alleged victim sobbing and clutching a tissue during a police interview.
After raping her, he is said to have asked how she lost her virginity.
Struggling to compose herself and answer questions, she said how he told her no one would believe her claims he had abused her.
The woman finally reported the abuse to police in August 2018 after suffering a breakdown.
During the interview, she told how Boyt demanded oral sex, and then on other occasions touched her sexually.
She said: “I just want to go away and cry.
“I just want to be on my own.
“Take me away, anywhere but here.”
She described Boyt as medium build, with a ponytail and said he would wear a Harley Davidson t-shirt.
Boyt was spoken to by police on November 14, 2018, and denied the accusations.
Prosecution barrister, David Richards told the court how Boyt claimed the victim wanted to be the centre of attention and that “someone was putting her up to it”.
The trial continues.


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Southampton schools join scheme for healthier school run

MORE Southampton schools are set to close their roads to vehicles as part of plans for safer and healthier school runs .
Shirley Infant School , Freemantle C of E Community Academy and Mansbridge Primary School will all be trialling the ‘ School Streets ’ scheme .
The scheme is run in partnership with Southampton City Council and Sustrans , a UK walking and cycling charity .
It aims to create a safer , greener and more attractive environment for residents on their journey to school .
Councillor Steve Leggett , Cabinet Member for Green City & Place , says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a significant portion of traffic on our roads at peak times so schemes like this are vital to reducing congestion across the city .
“ By closing the roads outside our schools at drop off and pick up times , we can also give people more space to walk , cycle or scoot to school safely and confidently .
“ This will translate into numerous positive benefits for our city ’ s air quality and people ’ s health .
“ The School Streets scheme in Southampton will ensure that we can adjust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the current challenges in a successful , sustainable and innovative way.
” The initiative forms an important part of the council ’ s wider plans to tackle poor air quality and create a fairer , greener and healthier city .
These three new schools take the total number of School Streets schemes in Southampton up to six .
It follows the now permanent scheme at St John ’ s Primary and Nursery School and an ongoing trial at St Mary ’ s C of E Primary School .
In September , Shirley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ implement the measures and the first in the city to do so as part of the council ’ s Covid-19 response .
St Monica Primary School , Fairisle Infant and Junior Schools and Sholing Infant and Junior Schools have all also trialled similar schemes as part of a national day-long event to celebrate the start of Sustrans ’ Big Pedal challenge last year .
Additional initiatives are also said to be in the pipeline for a further three schools in the city .
James Cleeton , Sustrans director for the South of England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of physical distancing , the space gained by having a road free of vehicles is so important to help families get to school safely .
“ Previous School Streets schemes show that making this change creates a cleaner , and more pleasant environment outside the school , as well as improving road safety and air quality .
“ This all helps to increase the likelihood that children will walk or cycle to school .
”

Shirley Infant School, Freemantle C of E Community Academy and Mansbridge Primary School will all be trialling the ‘School Streets’ scheme.
The scheme is run in partnership with Southampton City Council and Sustrans, a UK walking and cycling charity.
It aims to create a safer, greener and more attractive environment for residents on their journey to school.
Councillor Steve Leggett, Cabinet Member for Green City & Place, says: “The school run accounts for a significant portion of traffic on our roads at peak times so schemes like this are vital to reducing congestion across the city.
“By closing the roads outside our schools at drop off and pick up times, we can also give people more space to walk, cycle or scoot to school safely and confidently.
“This will translate into numerous positive benefits for our city’s air quality and people’s health.
“The School Streets scheme in Southampton will ensure that we can adjust safely to the new norm and recover from the current challenges in a successful, sustainable and innovative way.”
The initiative forms an important part of the council’s wider plans to tackle poor air quality and create a fairer, greener and healthier city.
These three new schools take the total number of School Streets schemes in Southampton up to six.
It follows the now permanent scheme at St John’s Primary and Nursery School and an ongoing trial at St Mary’s C of E Primary School.
In September, Shirley Junior School became the third school to implement the measures and the first in the city to do so as part of the council’s Covid-19 response.
St Monica Primary School, Fairisle Infant and Junior Schools and Sholing Infant and Junior Schools have all also trialled similar schemes as part of a national day-long event to celebrate the start of Sustrans’ Big Pedal challenge last year.
Additional initiatives are also said to be in the pipeline for a further three schools in the city.
James Cleeton, Sustrans director for the South of England, says: “At a time of physical distancing, the space gained by having a road free of vehicles is so important to help families get to school safely.
“Previous School Streets schemes show that making this change creates a cleaner, and more pleasant environment outside the school, as well as improving road safety and air quality.
“This all helps to increase the likelihood that children will walk or cycle to school.”


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Locked up in October: Eight criminals jailed in Hampshire

THOSE sentenced in October include a prolific paedophile , a man who tried to rob petrol station with screwdriver and a dad found with 85k worth of class A drugs .
Courts across the county have given out hefty prison sentences for all manner of crimes last month .
These are just some of the court cases our reporters have covered in October 2020 .
Here are the criminals and their crimes : Wayne Diamond was jailed after he was found with almost a kilogram of heroin and crack cocaine at his address at Lower Brook Street , Basingstoke when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The 57-year-old father was also found with a taser , which he said was used as a deterrent when dealing .
Diamond , who has previously been sent to prison both in the UK and France for drugs trafficking , was in debt because of his drug addiction .
He was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court to six years and eight months in prison , of which he is expected to serve half .
James Sharrock , 55 , was given a community order in 2011 for possession of indecent images of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his computer .
Sharrock previously pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children , three counts of distributing indecent images of children , possessing nine prohibited images of children and 638 extreme pornographic images .
Winchester Crown Court heard this month that Surrey Police , the Met Police and Hampshire Constabulary had been investigating Sharrock when officers attend his address in Spicers Court on July 24 , last year .
In total 4,333 images were found on several of his devices , 2,069 of them were described as category A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of indecent images .
The officer in the case PC Kristin McMahon said these “ were some of the worst images of child abuse I ’ ve seen ” , adding that they were “ sadistic ” showing “ children tied up , degraded and suffering physical as well as sexual abuse ” .
Some of the images also showed children that were drugged , with the age of those in the videos and pictures ranging from two months to 12-years-old .
Sharrock was jailed for two years and must be on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .
Dwain Ward has been jailed for more than two years for offences including a robbery at a Co-op garage in Millbrook Road West , Southampton in April .
Ward used a screwdriver added menace to the robbery .
The following night Ward and another man burgled two garden sheds at Green Park Road , Southampton .
Ward , 37 , of no fixed address , admitted robbery , two counts of burglary and possessing a prohibited weapon - a pepper spray .
The court heard that Ward had previous convictions for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving .
Ward was jailed for a total of 25 months , including 19 months for the robbery .
George Thomson was arrested on December 5 , 2019 , as part of an investigation into class A drugs supply at an address in Lydgate Road , Southampton .
The 23-year-old was found to be carrying around £2,000 worth of class A drugs , as well as hundreds of pounds in cash when he was stopped by police .
He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of class A drugs with intent to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a class B drug – relating to cannabis .
Appearing at the same Southampton Crown Court on October 22 , he was jailed for 32 months .
He was also ordered to forfeit £432.30 in cash and two mobile phones .
Staff and customers had to lock themselves in the back room of a shop when Ross Smith smashed wine bottles over the floor and threatened the duty manager with a steak knife .
Smith , of Falcon Road , East Cowes , also stole nearly £4,500 from an elderly neighbour of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ card multiple times to make cash withdrawals .
Smith admitted possession of a knife in a public place , criminal damage and common assault at the East Cowes Co-op on August 9 , 2020 , and theft on dates between April 16 and May 16 , 2020 .
Smith , a father of two , already had 35 convictions for 91 previous offences , including the most recent one in 2013 , when he was jailed for three years for intimidating a witness .
The 42-year-old was jailed for 15 months at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accountant Wing Chan was jailed after stealing £124,000 from his employer to fund his gambling habit .
His fraudulent activity had such a severe impact on Spanfair Limited , that company director Ronald Woodthorpe had to use £75,000 of his own money to shore up the business .
Mr Woodthorpe gave Chan a second chance after he began stealing cash and tried to cover his tracks by billing it as a salary loan .
But an audit conducted last year established that more money had gone missing , resulting in the defendant making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' confession .
Chan , 41 , of Manor Farm Road , Southampton , admitted fraud and has been jailed for 28 months .
Aaron Paul Morgan of Sydney Avenue , Hamble-Le-Rice was jailed after pleading guilty to two counts of burglary and one count of attempted burglary across Hampshire .
The 29-year-old , along with a gang of other offenders , targeted three Tesco Express stores in a crime spree last year .
After purchasing a sledgehammer at B & Q Hedge End , Morgan and three unknown men robbed the Tesco @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gang of men and Morgan also attempted to burgle the Tesco Express in Farlington , Portsmouth .
After being unable to get inside , they instead burgled the Tesco Express in Brockenhurst just over an hour and a half later , where they smashed the main entrance glass with a sledgehammer .
Just minutes after the offence , officers pulled over the vehicle and the occupants then ran into the grounds of a nearby house .
A police dog found Morgan who pleaded guilty to the offences .
He was jailed for 32 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mottram , aged 18 , pleaded guilty at Southampton Crown Court to a range of offences including arson , burglary , aggravated taking of a motor vehicle and driving without insurance – all of which occurred in Southampton between 11pm and midnight on Saturday 14 March 2020 .
Whilst on Court bail , Mottram carried out a robbery on 30th July , during which he stole the victim ’ s car in Hamble , driving it dangerously before being detained by officers in Fareham .
Mottram , of Verdon Avenue , Hamble-Le-Rice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six years in jail and disqualified from driving for four years upon his release .
He was found guilty of 13 offences in total including one count of arson , four counts of attempted burglary , one count of burglary , one count of aggravated taking of a motor vehicle , one count of robbery , and one count of dangerous driving and driving whilst intoxicated .
He was also sentenced for handling of stolen goods following a theft of a motor vehicle in December 2019 .

Courts across the county have given out hefty prison sentences for all manner of crimes last month.
These are just some of the court cases our reporters have covered in October 2020.
Here are the criminals and their crimes:
Wayne Diamond
Wayne Diamond
Wayne Diamond was jailed after he was found with almost a kilogram of heroin and crack cocaine at his address at Lower Brook Street, Basingstoke when he was stopped by police in September.
The 57-year-old father was also found with a taser, which he said was used as a deterrent when dealing.
Diamond, who has previously been sent to prison both in the UK and France for drugs trafficking, was in debt because of his drug addiction.
He was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court to six years and eight months in prison, of which he is expected to serve half.
James Sharrock
James Sharrock
James Sharrock, 55, was given a community order in 2011 for possession of indecent images of children when his wife found pictures on his computer.
Sharrock previously pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children, three counts of distributing indecent images of children, possessing nine prohibited images of children and 638 extreme pornographic images.
Winchester Crown Court heard this month that Surrey Police, the Met Police and Hampshire Constabulary had been investigating Sharrock when officers attend his address in Spicers Court on July 24, last year.
In total 4,333 images were found on several of his devices, 2,069 of them were described as category A, said to be the worst type of indecent images.
The officer in the case PC Kristin McMahon said these “were some of the worst images of child abuse I’ve seen”, adding that they were “sadistic” showing “children tied up, degraded and suffering physical as well as sexual abuse”.
Some of the images also showed children that were drugged, with the age of those in the videos and pictures ranging from two months to 12-years-old.
Sharrock was jailed for two years and must be on the sex offender’s register for 10 years.
Dwain Ward
Dwain Ward has been jailed for more than two years for offences including a robbery at a Co-op garage in Millbrook Road West, Southampton in April.
Ward used a screwdriver added menace to the robbery.
The following night Ward and another man burgled two garden sheds at Green Park Road, Southampton.
Ward, 37, of no fixed address, admitted robbery, two counts of burglary and possessing a prohibited weapon - a pepper spray.
The court heard that Ward had previous convictions for offences including shoplifting, burglary and dangerous driving.
Ward was jailed for a total of 25 months, including 19 months for the robbery.
George Thomson
George Thomson
George Thomson was arrested on December 5, 2019, as part of an investigation into class A drugs supply at an address in Lydgate Road, Southampton.
The 23-year-old was found to be carrying around £2,000 worth of class A drugs, as well as hundreds of pounds in cash when he was stopped by police.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply, and one count of possession of a class B drug – relating to cannabis.
Appearing at the same Southampton Crown Court on October 22, he was jailed for 32 months.
He was also ordered to forfeit £432.30 in cash and two mobile phones.
Ross Smith
Ross Smith
Staff and customers had to lock themselves in the back room of a shop when Ross Smith smashed wine bottles over the floor and threatened the duty manager with a steak knife.
Smith, of Falcon Road, East Cowes, also stole nearly £4,500 from an elderly neighbour of his mother, by using her bank card multiple times to make cash withdrawals.
Smith admitted possession of a knife in a public place, criminal damage and common assault at the East Cowes Co-op on August 9, 2020, and theft on dates between April 16 and May 16, 2020.
Smith, a father of two, already had 35 convictions for 91 previous offences, including the most recent one in 2013, when he was jailed for three years for intimidating a witness.
The 42-year-old was jailed for 15 months at the Isle of Wight Crown Court.
Wing Chan
Wing Chan
Trainee accountant Wing Chan was jailed after stealing £124,000 from his employer to fund his gambling habit.
His fraudulent activity had such a severe impact on Spanfair Limited, that company director Ronald Woodthorpe had to use £75,000 of his own money to shore up the business.
Mr Woodthorpe gave Chan a second chance after he began stealing cash and tried to cover his tracks by billing it as a salary loan.
But an audit conducted last year established that more money had gone missing, resulting in the defendant making a "full, frank and tearful" confession.
Chan, 41, of Manor Farm Road, Southampton, admitted fraud and has been jailed for 28 months.
Aaron Paul Morgan
Aaron Paul Morgan
Aaron Paul Morgan of Sydney Avenue, Hamble-Le-Rice was jailed after pleading guilty to two counts of burglary and one count of attempted burglary across Hampshire.
The 29-year-old, along with a gang of other offenders, targeted three Tesco Express stores in a crime spree last year.
After purchasing a sledgehammer at B&Q Hedge End, Morgan and three unknown men robbed the Tesco Express in Charlton, Andover.
The gang of men and Morgan also attempted to burgle the Tesco Express in Farlington, Portsmouth. After being unable to get inside, they instead burgled the Tesco Express in Brockenhurst just over an hour and a half later, where they smashed the main entrance glass with a sledgehammer.
Just minutes after the offence, officers pulled over the vehicle and the occupants then ran into the grounds of a nearby house.
A police dog found Morgan who pleaded guilty to the offences.
He was jailed for 32 months at Southampton Crown Court.
Bradley Mottram
Bradley Mottram
Bradley Mottram, aged 18, pleaded guilty at Southampton Crown Court to a range of offences including arson, burglary, aggravated taking of a motor vehicle and driving without insurance – all of which occurred in Southampton between 11pm and midnight on Saturday 14 March 2020.
Whilst on Court bail, Mottram carried out a robbery on 30th July, during which he stole the victim’s car in Hamble, driving it dangerously before being detained by officers in Fareham.
Mottram, of Verdon Avenue, Hamble-Le-Rice, was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court to six years in jail and disqualified from driving for four years upon his release.
He was found guilty of 13 offences in total including one count of arson, four counts of attempted burglary, one count of burglary, one count of aggravated taking of a motor vehicle, one count of robbery, and one count of dangerous driving and driving whilst intoxicated.
He was also sentenced for handling of stolen goods following a theft of a motor vehicle in December 2019.


thedailyecho--2020-11-03--Coronavirus: Hampshire school staff worried over 'social distancing'

THE government is being urged to protect school staff in Hampshire amid claims that social distancing is “ very difficult ” .
Trade unions said Hampshire school staff are worried as children find social distancing “ very difficult ” and staff end up being in “ close contact ” with pupils .
Union bosses said staff in Hampshire schools are facing a “ too high risk ” and feel they do not have “ adequate protection ” .
The news comes as a national lockdown will begin on November 5 but schools will remain open .
The government said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wellbeing from not attending school outweighs any other risks .
But some trade unions are calling for colleges and schools to close during lockdown while others are asking for further support including smaller bubbles and the reintroduction of shielding .
Union bosses said most of the concerns in the Hampshire County Council area have been raised by teaching assistants and classroom support staff in primary and secondary schools .
Callum Williamson , branch secretary at Hampshire Unison , said : “ It is very difficult for these children to social distance so they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Particularly if these children have particular needs .
It is almost every day we are hearing from members who are in schools and are worried about their safety at work due to Covid.
” Mr Williamson said most of the complaints come from clinically vulnerable staff and are expected to increase over the coming weeks .
It comes as according to the county council there have been 133 coronavirus cases across its 534 schools since September .
Of these cases , 114 were recorded in October .
Karen Williams , joint branch secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the National Education Union ( NEU ) , said : “ Members are concerned about the reality of social distancing .
Without fewer pupils in a class , or more rooms , feedback from members suggests that many believe they can not carry out their job effectively at two metres , and are approaching children more closely than this .
This is taking place in classroom settings where masks are not worn and where ventilation is often inadequate .
Without increased funding , schools will struggle to address these issues , and many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not have adequate protection against an airborne virus.
” Ms Williams said many clinically vulnerable Hampshire school staff are getting in touch with the union as they do not feel safe .
“ Last lockdown these workers were recognised as needing extra protections within a period where schools were only open for a limited number of pupils – now they are expected to work in schools which are open to all pupils , with the usual numbers in the usual-sized classrooms , ” she added .
She also said there are concerns about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and in their own families and communities .
Union leaders are calling for the reintroduction of shielding and further financial support for schools .
They are also asking the government for increased support for home working for staff , more investment in infection control measures , increased use of PPE and consideration of wider use of face coverings as well as “ an effective test and trace system ” .
Cllr Roz Chadd , executive member for education at Hampshire County Council , said the Government has issued “ extensive guidance ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place .
She added : “ We fully understand that staff may feel anxious and we encourage them to talk with the school ’ s leadership to ensure their concerns are listened to and that , where possible , additional measures are put in place to address those concerns.
” The government said school employers and leaders are required to minimise the risks “ recognising they can not completely eliminate the risk of coronavirus ” .
A Government spokesperson said : “ Schools have put in a range of protective measures , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce the risk of transmission .
The Chief and Deputy Chief Medical Officers have repeatedly confirmed children do not drive infections in the community in the same way as with other infections like flu .
Their assessment remains the risks to children ’ s education and wellbeing from not attending school outweighs any other risks .
”

Trade unions said Hampshire school staff are worried as children find social distancing “very difficult” and staff end up being in “close contact” with pupils.
Union bosses said staff in Hampshire schools are facing a “too high risk” and feel they do not have “adequate protection”.
The news comes as a national lockdown will begin on November 5 but schools will remain open.
The government said the risks to children’s education and wellbeing from not attending school outweighs any other risks.
But some trade unions are calling for colleges and schools to close during lockdown while others are asking for further support including smaller bubbles and the reintroduction of shielding.
Union bosses said most of the concerns in the Hampshire County Council area have been raised by teaching assistants and classroom support staff in primary and secondary schools.
Callum Williamson, branch secretary at Hampshire Unison, said: “It is very difficult for these children to social distance so they come in close contact with staff. Particularly if these children have particular needs. It is almost every day we are hearing from members who are in schools and are worried about their safety at work due to Covid.”
Mr Williamson said most of the complaints come from clinically vulnerable staff and are expected to increase over the coming weeks.
It comes as according to the county council there have been 133 coronavirus cases across its 534 schools since September. Of these cases, 114 were recorded in October.
Karen Williams, joint branch secretary at the Hampshire State Education Branch of the National Education Union (NEU), said: “Members are concerned about the reality of social distancing. Without fewer pupils in a class, or more rooms, feedback from members suggests that many believe they cannot carry out their job effectively at two metres, and are approaching children more closely than this. This is taking place in classroom settings where masks are not worn and where ventilation is often inadequate. Without increased funding, schools will struggle to address these issues, and many of our members feel that they do not have adequate protection against an airborne virus.”
Ms Williams said many clinically vulnerable Hampshire school staff are getting in touch with the union as they do not feel safe.
“Last lockdown these workers were recognised as needing extra protections within a period where schools were only open for a limited number of pupils – now they are expected to work in schools which are open to all pupils, with the usual numbers in the usual-sized classrooms,” she added.
She also said there are concerns about pupils mixing across bubbles on home-school transport, and in their own families and communities.
Union leaders are calling for the reintroduction of shielding and further financial support for schools.
They are also asking the government for increased support for home working for staff, more investment in infection control measures, increased use of PPE and consideration of wider use of face coverings as well as “an effective test and trace system”.
Cllr Roz Chadd, executive member for education at Hampshire County Council, said the Government has issued “extensive guidance” about the measures that schools should put in place. She added: “We fully understand that staff may feel anxious and we encourage them to talk with the school’s leadership to ensure their concerns are listened to and that, where possible, additional measures are put in place to address those concerns.”
The government said school employers and leaders are required to minimise the risks “recognising they cannot completely eliminate the risk of coronavirus”.
A Government spokesperson said: “Schools have put in a range of protective measures, endorsed by Public Health England, to reduce the risk of transmission. The Chief and Deputy Chief Medical Officers have repeatedly confirmed children do not drive infections in the community in the same way as with other infections like flu. Their assessment remains the risks to children’s education and wellbeing from not attending school outweighs any other risks.”