thedailyecho--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Drug to prevent worsening of virus effects is being trialled at University of Southampt

Coronavirus: Drug to prevent worsening of virus effects is being trialled at University of Southampton

AN INHALED drug that could prevent worsening of COVID-19 in those most at risk is being trialled by Southampton researchers .
The trial comes as 32 new deaths hit the UK as a result of coronavirus , taking the country 's death toll to 104 .
Led by Tom Wilkinson , Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Southampton and a consultant in respiratory medicine at University Hospital Southampton , it will involve 100 patients at Southampton and up to ten other NHS hospitals taking part .
Those patients will receive the `` best current '' COVID-19 care , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a special formulation of the naturally occurring antiviral protein interferon beta 1a , called IFN-B , for two weeks .
SNG001 has been developed by Synairgen - a drug development company founded by University of Southampton professors Stephen Holgate , Donna Davies and Ratko Djukanovic - to prevent severe lower respiratory tract illness caused by cold and flu infections when they spread to the lungs .
Phase two clinical trials in asthmatic patients have previously shown that SNG001 is well tolerated , enhances the lungs ’ antiviral defences and improves lung function @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researchers have shown that key high risk groups for COVID-19 , including older people and those with some chronic diseases have lower levels of IFN-B , a natural antiviral produced in lungs during viral lung infections .
SNG001 delivers extra IFN-B direct to the lungs , counteracting viral strategies to avoid immune defences by inhibiting natural IFN-B production .
Professor Wilkinson said : “ COVID-19 is presenting a major challenge to vulnerable patients , the health service and wider society whilst a vaccine will be key , that could some time away .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatments to give doctors the tools to treat the most vulnerable and to help patients recover quickly as the pressure on health systems mounts.
” Responding to the urgency of the pandemic , Synairgen and Professor Wilkinson worked with regulators and Southampton ’ s R & D department to open the study within weeks .
“ We have worked intensively with the relevant authorities and collaborators to enable SNG001 to be assessed in COVID-19 patients .
A successful outcome from this trial in COVID-19 patients would be a major breakthrough in the fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richard Marsden , CEO of Synairgen .
According to the university , positive initial results from this trial could see the drug expanded to more hospitals .

The trial comes as 32 new deaths hit the UK as a result of coronavirus, taking the country's death toll to 104.
Led by Tom Wilkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Southampton and a consultant in respiratory medicine at University Hospital Southampton, it will involve 100 patients at Southampton and up to ten other NHS hospitals taking part.
Those patients will receive the "best current" COVID-19 care, whilst inhaling either a placebo or SNG001, a special formulation of the naturally occurring antiviral protein interferon beta 1a, called IFN-B, for two weeks.
SNG001 has been developed by Synairgen - a drug development company founded by University of Southampton professors Stephen Holgate, Donna Davies and Ratko Djukanovic - to prevent severe lower respiratory tract illness caused by cold and flu infections when they spread to the lungs.
Phase two clinical trials in asthmatic patients have previously shown that SNG001 is well tolerated, enhances the lungs’ antiviral defences and improves lung function during cold or flu infection.
Southampton researchers have shown that key high risk groups for COVID-19, including older people and those with some chronic diseases have lower levels of IFN-B, a natural antiviral produced in lungs during viral lung infections.
SNG001 delivers extra IFN-B direct to the lungs, counteracting viral strategies to avoid immune defences by inhibiting natural IFN-B production.
Professor Wilkinson said: “COVID-19 is presenting a major challenge to vulnerable patients, the health service and wider society whilst a vaccine will be key, that could some time away.
"Right now we need effective frontline treatments to give doctors the tools to treat the most vulnerable and to help patients recover quickly as the pressure on health systems mounts.”
Responding to the urgency of the pandemic, Synairgen and Professor Wilkinson worked with regulators and Southampton’s R&D department to open the study within weeks.
“We have worked intensively with the relevant authorities and collaborators to enable SNG001 to be assessed in COVID-19 patients. A successful outcome from this trial in COVID-19 patients would be a major breakthrough in the fight against this coronavirus pandemic,” said Richard Marsden, CEO of Synairgen.
According to the university, positive initial results from this trial could see the drug expanded to more hospitals.


thedailyecho--2020-03-19--Romsey schools react to Government's school closure decision

A NUMBER of Romsey schools have been affected by the Government 's announcement of school closures .
Boris Johnson said schools in England will close their gates on Friday until further notice , but urged parents not to leave children in the care of grandparents or older relatives who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill with coronavirus .
The school closures have also affected exams , with it thought GCSE and A Level exams also being cancelled .
In the Test Valley , The Romsey School , Mountbatten School and Stroud School were among those partially closing before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Now , schools have reacted to the news .
Colm McKavanagh , headteacher of The Romsey School said : `` As you can imagine it is all hands on deck at the moment to make sure that pupils are set up to continue their learning once schools are closed .
`` Staff have been brilliant and have made sure that the on-line learning portals are filled with activities for the pupils and will be continuing to monitor and assess the work that they do , albeit remotely .
`` We are of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of key workers and we are working collaboratively with our cluster of schools to act as a hub , providing continued education , activities and a daily meal .
We await further clarification with regard to the cancelling of all exams so that we can provide further reassurance to our Year 11 students who are naturally anxious for the future .
`` Our message to parents and the children is keep following the advice from Public Health England and we will all pull through this difficult time . ''
Mr Worrall , Headmaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented '' moment .
He said : “ In recent days , I have been humbled by both the efforts of the staff and the response by our parents .
`` This is not an event that features in normal school planning and is unprecedented in my 20 years of teaching .
Despite this , the staff have been amazing , preparing for a closure whilst still teaching a ‘ normal ’ full timetable load .
`` Our parents , who are just as stretched within their own working lives , have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will close the school on Friday ; sending home children who remain happy and secure in the knowledge that we will get through this as a whole community . ''
Cliff Canning , Headmaster , Embley , said : “ For some time , we have been preparing for an announcement that the Government may close schools .
“ Embley ’ s Digital Learning Strategy has been in place for three years and all pupils having access to our ecosystem of digital resources .
“ Combined with virtual feedback , support and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can provide continuity in our high standards of teaching and learning while the school is temporarily closed .
”

Boris Johnson said schools in England will close their gates on Friday until further notice, but urged parents not to leave children in the care of grandparents or older relatives who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill with coronavirus.
The school closures have also affected exams, with it thought GCSE and A Level exams also being cancelled.
In the Test Valley, The Romsey School, Mountbatten School and Stroud School were among those partially closing before the news was announced by Mr Johnson.
Now, schools have reacted to the news.
Colm McKavanagh, headteacher of The Romsey School said: "As you can imagine it is all hands on deck at the moment to make sure that pupils are set up to continue their learning once schools are closed.
"Staff have been brilliant and have made sure that the on-line learning portals are filled with activities for the pupils and will be continuing to monitor and assess the work that they do, albeit remotely.
"We are of course providing a local provision for children of key workers and we are working collaboratively with our cluster of schools to act as a hub, providing continued education, activities and a daily meal.
We await further clarification with regard to the cancelling of all exams so that we can provide further reassurance to our Year 11 students who are naturally anxious for the future.
"Our message to parents and the children is keep following the advice from Public Health England and we will all pull through this difficult time."
Mr Worrall, Headmaster of Stroud School, described this "unprecedented" moment.
He said: “In recent days, I have been humbled by both the efforts of the staff and the response by our parents.
"This is not an event that features in normal school planning and is unprecedented in my 20 years of teaching. Despite this, the staff have been amazing, preparing for a closure whilst still teaching a ‘normal’ full timetable load.
"Our parents, who are just as stretched within their own working lives, have been nothing but supportive.
"Together, we will close the school on Friday; sending home children who remain happy and secure in the knowledge that we will get through this as a whole community."
Cliff Canning, Headmaster, Embley, said: “For some time, we have been preparing for an announcement that the Government may close schools.
“Embley’s Digital Learning Strategy has been in place for three years and all pupils having access to our ecosystem of digital resources.
“Combined with virtual feedback, support and encouragement from our teaching staff, we can provide continuity in our high standards of teaching and learning while the school is temporarily closed.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Shoppers queue outside Sainsbury's in Lordshill

HUNDREDS of elderly and vulnerable people have got up at the crack of dawn and queued in the rain to beat `` panic buyers '' .
Many shelves at supermarkets across Southampton and the surrounding areas have been stripped bare by people worried by the Coronavirus outbreak .
This has left many pensioners and vulnerable people short of food and supplies .
However , for the first hour of trading , supermarkets including Sainsbury 's and Iceland opened their doors just for people over 60-years-old and those with disabilities .
This morning , reporters from the Daily Echo spoke to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Sainsbury 's in Lordshill to open at 7am .
Elderly shoppers complained of the chaos bulk-buying had caused and how they struggled to buy everyday items .
One woman who wished to remain unnamed said : `` I ca n't understand what 's going on .
`` It 's disgusting .
I have a disabled brother who I look after and it 's absolutely awful .
I am shopping for him .
`` I think supermarkets should limit a shoppers to buying two of each items a week .
`` People are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ die of flu each year .
China seems to be getting over it . ''
Another pensioner from Romsey added : `` I am shopping for me my wife .
My wife is a carer for a 103-year-old woman .
`` I have queued since 6.20am .
I do n't want to bulk-buy I want to do my normal shopping .
`` As a couple we have not been able to shop properly for three weeks .
Also queuing today ( Thursday ) was Southampton resident , John Goodey , who is `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Coronavirus crisis , the pensioner says we have to accept what we have and get on with life .
Last spring a tree crashed into John 's house coming within inches of crushing him and his wife Joan , 82 .
Meanwhile their roof and upstairs bedrooms were seriously damaged .
The couple married for 40-years were made homeless but have since returned to their house in Dunkirk Road .
This morning John , 76 , was smiling and happy .

Many shelves at supermarkets across Southampton and the surrounding areas have been stripped bare by people worried by the Coronavirus outbreak.
This has left many pensioners and vulnerable people short of food and supplies.
However, for the first hour of trading, supermarkets including Sainsbury's and Iceland opened their doors just for people over 60-years-old and those with disabilities.
This morning, reporters from the Daily Echo spoke to people as they waited for the doors at Sainsbury's in Lordshill to open at 7am.
Elderly shoppers complained of the chaos bulk-buying had caused and how they struggled to buy everyday items.
One woman who wished to remain unnamed said: "I can't understand what's going on.
"It's disgusting. I have a disabled brother who I look after and it's absolutely awful. I am shopping for him.
"I think supermarkets should limit a shoppers to buying two of each items a week.
"People are being selfish. More than 5,000 people die of flu each year. China seems to be getting over it."
Another pensioner from Romsey added: "I am shopping for me my wife. My wife is a carer for a 103-year-old woman.
"I have queued since 6.20am. I don't want to bulk-buy I want to do my normal shopping.
"As a couple we have not been able to shop properly for three weeks.
Also queuing today (Thursday) was Southampton resident, John Goodey, who is "lucky to be alive".
Despite the Coronavirus crisis, the pensioner says we have to accept what we have and get on with life.
Last spring a tree crashed into John's house coming within inches of crushing him and his wife Joan, 82.
Shattered glass and broken debris covered the couples' back garden.
Meanwhile their roof and upstairs bedrooms were seriously damaged.
The couple married for 40-years were made homeless but have since returned to their house in Dunkirk Road.
This morning John, 76, was smiling and happy.


thedailyecho--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Shoppers queue outside Sainsbury's, Southampton

HUNDREDS of elderly and vulnerable people have got up at the crack of dawn and queued in the rain to beat `` panic buyers '' .
Many shelves at supermarkets across Southampton and the surrounding areas have been stripped bare by people worried by the Coronavirus outbreak .
Waiting for the doors to open outside Sainsbury 's , Lordshill on Thursday , March 19 This has left many pensioners and vulnerable people short of food and supplies .
However , for the first hour of trading , supermarkets including Sainsbury 's and Iceland opened their doors just for people over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning , reporters from the Daily Echo spoke to people as they waited for the doors at Sainsbury 's in Lordshill to open at 7am .
One woman just wants to buy everyday items Elderly shoppers complained of the chaos bulk-buying had caused and how they struggled to buy everyday items .
One woman who wished to remain unnamed said : `` I ca n't understand what 's going on .
`` It 's disgusting .
I have a disabled brother who I look after and it 's absolutely awful .
I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supermarkets should limit a shoppers to buying two of each items a week .
`` People are being selfish .
More than 5,000 people die of flu each year .
China seems to be getting over it . ''
Another pensioner from Romsey added : `` I am shopping for me my wife .
My wife is a carer for a 103-year-old woman .
`` I have queued since 6.20am .
I do n't want to bulk-buy I want to do my normal shopping .
`` As a couple we have not been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Also queuing today ( Thursday ) was Southampton resident , John Goodey , who is `` lucky to be alive '' .
Despite the Coronavirus crisis , the pensioner says we have to accept what we have and get on with life .
Last spring a tree crashed into John 's house coming within inches of crushing him and his wife Joan , 82 .
Meanwhile their roof and upstairs bedrooms were seriously damaged .
The couple married for 40-years were made homeless but have since returned to their house in Dunkirk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was smiling and happy .

Many shelves at supermarkets across Southampton and the surrounding areas have been stripped bare by people worried by the Coronavirus outbreak.
Waiting for the doors to open outside Sainsbury's, Lordshill on Thursday, March 19
This has left many pensioners and vulnerable people short of food and supplies.
However, for the first hour of trading, supermarkets including Sainsbury's and Iceland opened their doors just for people over 60-years-old and those with disabilities.
This morning, reporters from the Daily Echo spoke to people as they waited for the doors at Sainsbury's in Lordshill to open at 7am.
One woman just wants to buy everyday items
Elderly shoppers complained of the chaos bulk-buying had caused and how they struggled to buy everyday items.
One woman who wished to remain unnamed said: "I can't understand what's going on.
"It's disgusting. I have a disabled brother who I look after and it's absolutely awful. I am shopping for him.
"I think supermarkets should limit a shoppers to buying two of each items a week.
"People are being selfish. More than 5,000 people die of flu each year. China seems to be getting over it."
Another pensioner from Romsey added: "I am shopping for me my wife. My wife is a carer for a 103-year-old woman.
"I have queued since 6.20am. I don't want to bulk-buy I want to do my normal shopping.
"As a couple we have not been able to shop properly for three weeks.
Also queuing today (Thursday) was Southampton resident, John Goodey, who is "lucky to be alive".
John Goodey outside Sainsbury's, Lordshill on Thursday, March 19
Despite the Coronavirus crisis, the pensioner says we have to accept what we have and get on with life.
Last spring a tree crashed into John's house coming within inches of crushing him and his wife Joan, 82.
Shattered glass and broken debris covered the couples' back garden.
Meanwhile their roof and upstairs bedrooms were seriously damaged.
The couple married for 40-years were made homeless but have since returned to their house in Dunkirk Road.
This morning John, 76, was smiling and happy.


thedailyecho--2020-03-19--Southampton City Council shuts libraries and museums over coronavirus

LIBRARIES and museums in Southampton have been shut with immediate effect amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Southampton City Council has announced the closure of all libraries and cultural venues in the city .
It comes as the government has told residents to avoid mass gatherings and crowded places in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19 .
The city council has announced that from this morning the Tudor House and Gardens , SeaCity Museum , Southampton City Art Gallery , Southampton Archive and all libraries including Central Library , Bitterne Library , Lordshill Library , Portswood Library , Shirley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Service will remain closed until further notice .
The authority said the measures have been implemented to help protect public health and the wellbeing of visitors , staff and volunteers .
`` Prearranged activities at these locations will now be on hold until further notice , '' the council said .
In a statement to the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) Councillor Satvir Kaur , cabinet member for homes and culture at the city council , said : `` This is a challenging and unprecedented time for all of us in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cultural venues during this period is not a decision which has been taken lightly , as we know how important they are for our local communities .
We have made this decision to help protect the health and well-being of our staff , volunteers and visitors .
Whilst this may be disappointing to some , keeping our communities safe must always remain our priority .
I hope people in Southampton remain kind and support each other during these troubling times and I am optimistic that culture is part of the solution when we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to welcoming you back in due course .
”

Southampton City Council has announced the closure of all libraries and cultural venues in the city.
It comes as the government has told residents to avoid mass gatherings and crowded places in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19.
The city council has announced that from this morning the Tudor House and Gardens, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Southampton Archive and all libraries including Central Library, Bitterne Library, Lordshill Library, Portswood Library, Shirley Library, Woolston Library and School Library Service will remain closed until further notice.
The authority said the measures have been implemented to help protect public health and the wellbeing of visitors, staff and volunteers.
"Prearranged activities at these locations will now be on hold until further notice," the council said.
In a statement to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) Councillor Satvir Kaur, cabinet member for homes and culture at the city council, said: "This is a challenging and unprecedented time for all of us in Southampton. Closing our much-loved libraries and cultural venues during this period is not a decision which has been taken lightly, as we know how important they are for our local communities. We have made this decision to help protect the health and well-being of our staff, volunteers and visitors. Whilst this may be disappointing to some, keeping our communities safe must always remain our priority. I hope people in Southampton remain kind and support each other during these troubling times and I am optimistic that culture is part of the solution when we re-emerge from this. We look forward to welcoming you back in due course.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Samurai sword-wielding man arrested in Southampton

A SAMURAI sword-wielding man was arrested in Southampton by armed police .
Officers rushed to Shirley Road at around 9.30am on Wednesday March 18 after receiving reports that a man was waving a samurai sword around outside of a boots store .
A 32-year-old man , of no fixed address , was arrested at the scene on suspicion of possessing a knife or sharp pointed article in a public place .
Witnesses were `` quite amazed '' by what they saw , as eight police officers , `` one armed with a pistol '' , reportedly held a gun to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ground .
Mikey Wilson , who works as a bartender for the Santo Lounge in Shirley , said : `` I saw around eight policeman and one of them was armed with a pistol .
It was quite a scene .
Someone walked into the restaurant after and said that there was a man with a sword outside of boots .
He said police had him on the floor with a gun to his head .
`` I was quite amazed really , it 's bizarre seeing things like that happen so close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it all seems to be going on in Shirley at the moment ! ''
Hampshire Police confirmed the man has `` been released '' but remains under investigation in relation to that offence .
A spokesperson said : `` I can confirm officers stopped a man on Shirley Road shortly after 9.30am on Wednesday March 18 .
The 32-year-old , of no fixed abode , was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife/sharp pointed article in a public place .
It has been described as a Samurai sword .
He was released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that offence . ''
Southampton MP , Royston Smith described this as a `` highly irresponsible act '' .
He said : `` I am pleased the police acted so quickly .
Behaviour like this simply can not be tolerated .
Our public services , including our police officers , have enough to do keeping the public safe and reassured during these very challenging times without having to respond to incidents such as this one . ''
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information can contact police on 101 , quoting the @ @ @ @

Officers rushed to Shirley Road at around 9.30am on Wednesday March 18 after receiving reports that a man was waving a samurai sword around outside of a boots store.
A 32-year-old man, of no fixed address, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of possessing a knife or sharp pointed article in a public place.
Witnesses were "quite amazed" by what they saw, as eight police officers, "one armed with a pistol", reportedly held a gun to the head of a man on the ground.
Mikey Wilson, who works as a bartender for the Santo Lounge in Shirley, said: "I saw around eight policeman and one of them was armed with a pistol. It was quite a scene. Someone walked into the restaurant after and said that there was a man with a sword outside of boots. He said police had him on the floor with a gun to his head.
"I was quite amazed really, it's bizarre seeing things like that happen so close. It was a big operation and it all seems to be going on in Shirley at the moment!"
Hampshire Police confirmed the man has "been released" but remains under investigation in relation to that offence.
A spokesperson said: "I can confirm officers stopped a man on Shirley Road shortly after 9.30am on Wednesday March 18. The 32-year-old, of no fixed abode, was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife/sharp pointed article in a public place. It has been described as a Samurai sword. He was released but remains under investigation in relation to that offence."
Southampton MP, Royston Smith described this as a "highly irresponsible act".
He said: "I am pleased the police acted so quickly. Behaviour like this simply cannot be tolerated. Our public services, including our police officers, have enough to do keeping the public safe and reassured during these very challenging times without having to respond to incidents such as this one."
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information can contact police on 101, quoting the reference number 44200101525.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Hampshire  outdoor centres shut

SOME outdoor centres across Hampshire have been shut due to the coronavirus outbreak .
Hampshire County Council has decided to close all its outdoor centres until further notice .
It comes as measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 are being implemented across the country .
The county council said there will be no public access at any centre , including Calshot Activities Centre where the café , climbing wall , ski slopes , velodrome , campsite and toilets are now closed .
Public carparks , boat storage and slipways at Calshot will remain open for the time being .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centre in the New Forest and the Runway 's End Outdoor Centre near Farnborough have been closed .
Cllr Seán Woodward , executive member for recreation and heritage at the county council , said : `` We acknowledge that this will cause disruption , but the health of Hampshire residents and visitors is paramount .
When we can reopen our centres will be subject to ongoing reviews.
” Anyone who has a booking in the next few months will be contacted in the next few days , the authority said .
The news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were closed yesterday .

Hampshire County Council has decided to close all its outdoor centres until further notice.
It comes as measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 are being implemented across the country.
The county council said there will be no public access at any centre, including Calshot Activities Centre where the café, climbing wall, ski slopes, velodrome, campsite and toilets are now closed.
Public carparks, boat storage and slipways at Calshot will remain open for the time being.
Calshot Activities Centre and Tile Barn Outdoor Centre in the New Forest and the Runway's End Outdoor Centre near Farnborough have been closed.
Cllr Seán Woodward, executive member for recreation and heritage at the county council, said: "We acknowledge that this will cause disruption, but the health of Hampshire residents and visitors is paramount. When we can reopen our centres will be subject to ongoing reviews.”
Anyone who has a booking in the next few months will be contacted in the next few days, the authority said.
The news comes as libraries and museums in Southampton were closed yesterday.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Eastleigh taxi firm starts discounted delivery service for self isolating residents

AN EASTLEIGH-based taxi firm has started offering a discounted delivery service to residents in self isolation .
Taxi company , `` 440 cars '' has started delivering essential shop supplies and medications to the homes of residents that are in self isolation because of the coronavirus .
Residents can call up the company as usual and request a delivery , where they will then say what items they need , pay over the phone and then the items are delivered outside of the their house to avoid all unnecessary contact .
While there is a charge for petrol to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be dependent on the distance of the journey and will be discounted , with the taxi firm paying for some of the cost .
Shamus Farooq , 30 , is the manager of 440 cars and he believes this is a way of `` giving back to the community '' .
He said : `` People are n't ordering taxis anymore as people are n't leaving their house , and all of our drivers are self-employed .
This was a way to get the drivers driving again , and help out our local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money on advertisement and have put it all into allowing this scheme to take place .
We wo n't be making a profit from this , we 're just trying to break even , not exploit people .
`` Hopefully other companies follow suit .
We have 50 or 60 cars , some taxi firms have hundreds .
Imagine what they could do for the community and they should be ashamed if they do n't . ''
Shamus also owns Wintax Cars , based in Winchester , where the same service is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an elderly only service , but has since been adapted to help all people in the community who have been forced to self isolate .

Taxi company, "440 cars" has started delivering essential shop supplies and medications to the homes of residents that are in self isolation because of the coronavirus.
Residents can call up the company as usual and request a delivery, where they will then say what items they need, pay over the phone and then the items are delivered outside of the their house to avoid all unnecessary contact.
While there is a charge for petrol to ensure the service can continue, this will be dependent on the distance of the journey and will be discounted, with the taxi firm paying for some of the cost.
Shamus Farooq, 30, is the manager of 440 cars and he believes this is a way of "giving back to the community".
He said: "People aren't ordering taxis anymore as people aren't leaving their house, and all of our drivers are self-employed. This was a way to get the drivers driving again, and help out our local community.
"I have stopped all money on advertisement and have put it all into allowing this scheme to take place. We won't be making a profit from this, we're just trying to break even, not exploit people.
"Hopefully other companies follow suit. We have 50 or 60 cars, some taxi firms have hundreds. Imagine what they could do for the community and they should be ashamed if they don't."
Shamus also owns Wintax Cars, based in Winchester, where the same service is being offered.
The scheme originally began as an elderly only service, but has since been adapted to help all people in the community who have been forced to self isolate.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Romsey man's life saved by 11-year-old passing by

A ROMSEY man 's life was saved when a 11-year-old boy came to his rescue .
Dave Holland , was walking in Campion Drive , Romsey with his two-year-old grandchild when he fell into a cardiac arrest .
A year seven Mountbatten School pupil , Jacob Goodchild , was on his bike when Dave fell .
He hopped off to rescue the pushchair and discovered that Dave was unresponsive and injured .
Luckily , she happened to be a GP and immediately started CPR on 76-year-old Dave .
She was quickly supported by a cardiologist and an off duty paramedic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area , as well as family-friends of Dave who lived in the road .
Another resident appeared with a defibrillator from Woodley Village Hall , Romsey to revive the father .
Dave 's wife Jenny and their son , Tom Holland arrived at the scene when he regained consciousness and was taken to Southampton General Hospital .
Tom , 36 , said : `` Given that the survival rate for a cardiac arrest outside of hospital is 10 % , it ’ s a miracle that he ’ s still alive .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he absolutely would have died if it wasn ’ t for the quick thinking and response of those first at the scene.
” '' For an 11-year-old to have the clarity of thought in that situation to protect my nephew , to call 999 , and to raise the alarm for help , is really amazing . ''
Abby Goodchild , Jacob 's mum , said : `` We are all incredibly proud of Jacob and the doctor said without his quick thinking Dave probably would n't be here today .
`` To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11-year-old and cope with a level head and so well , it is amazing really . ''
Dave suffered broken ribs , which is common after CPR , and has led to a chest infection but he is recovering well and is getting stronger .
His wife Jenny , said “ We will be forever grateful to Jacob , who for someone so young , acted with maturity way beyond his years .
`` We just hope this encourages people to attend a first aid course and to find out where their local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s life.
” Former Chairman of Romsey Extra Parish Council , Chris Wesson , received a call last week to say the defibrillator he installed at Woodley Village Hall four years ago - had been used to save Dave 's life .
Chris said : `` To hear the defib save a life - it was just like magic .
`` I am very pleased and £1,500 to save a life is cheap all considering , I was so elated that somebody managed to save him . ''

Dave Holland, was walking in Campion Drive, Romsey with his two-year-old grandchild when he fell into a cardiac arrest.
A year seven Mountbatten School pupil, Jacob Goodchild, was on his bike when Dave fell.
He hopped off to rescue the pushchair and discovered that Dave was unresponsive and injured.
Jacob called 999 and flagged down a nearby resident.
Luckily, she happened to be a GP and immediately started CPR on 76-year-old Dave.
She was quickly supported by a cardiologist and an off duty paramedic who both happened to be in the area, as well as family-friends of Dave who lived in the road.
Another resident appeared with a defibrillator from Woodley Village Hall, Romsey to revive the father.
Dave's wife Jenny and their son, Tom Holland arrived at the scene when he regained consciousness and was taken to Southampton General Hospital.
Tom, 36, said: "Given that the survival rate for a cardiac arrest outside of hospital is 10%, it’s a miracle that he’s still alive. The consultant at the hospital has said that he absolutely would have died if it wasn’t for the quick thinking and response of those first at the scene.”
"For an 11-year-old to have the clarity of thought in that situation to protect my nephew, to call 999, and to raise the alarm for help, is really amazing."
Abby Goodchild, Jacob's mum, said: "We are all incredibly proud of Jacob and the doctor said without his quick thinking Dave probably wouldn't be here today.
"To be first on the scene as an 11-year-old and cope with a level head and so well, it is amazing really."
Dave suffered broken ribs, which is common after CPR, and has led to a chest infection but he is recovering well and is getting stronger.
His wife Jenny, said “We will be forever grateful to Jacob, who for someone so young, acted with maturity way beyond his years.
"We just hope this encourages people to attend a first aid course and to find out where their local defibrillator is because that knowledge saved Dave’s life.”
Former Chairman of Romsey Extra Parish Council, Chris Wesson, received a call last week to say the defibrillator he installed at Woodley Village Hall four years ago - had been used to save Dave's life.
Chris said: "To hear the defib save a life - it was just like magic.
"I am very pleased and £1,500 to save a life is cheap all considering, I was so elated that somebody managed to save him."


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Communicare urges for more volunteers amid fears of UK lockdown

A SOUTHAMPTON charity that helps the city ’ s isolated is expecting a surge in demand if the country goes into lockdown .
Communicare , which aims to eradicate loneliness across the coastal city , says it is “ coping at the moment ” .
But the charity is now urging people to volunteer to help others in their community with essential supplies and support if the coronavirus situation gets worse .
They say it is putting a strain on what they can offer to those using their service , such as elderly people with wellbeing issues .
Manager Annie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facing a number of challenges .
Many of our volunteers are in vulnerable situations being aged either 70 plus , or they have an underlying health condition , so they rightly need to self-isolate now , as per the Government ’ s and health experts ’ recommendations .
“ We ’ re , of course , taking all this very seriously , but it is putting a strain on what we can offer our service users , who are also mainly elderly and have mental and physical wellbeing issues too.
” The charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give their time freely to help those in need .
Communicare ’ s Good Neighbours ’ Network supports nearly 400 individuals and families annually , covering more than 2,300 tasks including one-to-one befriending , transport to activities , such as the regular lunch clubs and tea parties .
Annie added : “ At the moment we ’ re coping well with the current demands we have for our services but we ’ re bracing ourselves and would love to hear from anyone who can help .
“ The sort of assistance people can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a phone call from your home to someone in theirs on a regular basis would help .
“ We have had volunteers kindly stepping up and taking on more .
We ’ ve stopped all one-to-one visiting where necessary and we ’ re offering people different support options .
“ But we still need more volunteers , as we ’ re expecting unprecedented calls and requests for our help in the coming weeks , maybe months , especially if the country goes into a lockdown situation .
“ If we ’ re all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the loneliest , so if you are likely to be in this situation you would be helping others , as well as potentially giving yourself some essential socialisation in the process , by volunteering to telephone one of our service users .
”

Communicare, which aims to eradicate loneliness across the coastal city, says it is “coping at the moment”.
But the charity is now urging people to volunteer to help others in their community with essential supplies and support if the coronavirus situation gets worse.
They say it is putting a strain on what they can offer to those using their service, such as elderly people with wellbeing issues.
Manager Annie Clewlow said: “We’re facing a number of challenges. Many of our volunteers are in vulnerable situations being aged either 70 plus, or they have an underlying health condition, so they rightly need to self-isolate now, as per the Government’s and health experts’ recommendations.
“We’re, of course, taking all this very seriously, but it is putting a strain on what we can offer our service users, who are also mainly elderly and have mental and physical wellbeing issues too.”
The charity’s band of Communiteers volunteer to give their time freely to help those in need.
Communicare’s Good Neighbours’ Network supports nearly 400 individuals and families annually, covering more than 2,300 tasks including one-to-one befriending, transport to activities, such as the regular lunch clubs and tea parties.
Annie added: “At the moment we’re coping well with the current demands we have for our services but we’re bracing ourselves and would love to hear from anyone who can help.
“The sort of assistance people can provide is simple. Even just making a phone call from your home to someone in theirs on a regular basis would help.
“We have had volunteers kindly stepping up and taking on more. We’ve stopped all one-to-one visiting where necessary and we’re offering people different support options.
“But we still need more volunteers, as we’re expecting unprecedented calls and requests for our help in the coming weeks, maybe months, especially if the country goes into a lockdown situation.
“If we’re all in isolation anyone who lives alone will be the loneliest, so if you are likely to be in this situation you would be helping others, as well as potentially giving yourself some essential socialisation in the process, by volunteering to telephone one of our service users.”
To volunteer, call 023 8021 6023 or visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Southampton, Eastleigh, and New Forest news

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thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Ikea set to temporarily close all stores to help combat coronavirus spread

SWEDISH favourite Ikea is to temporarily close all UK and Ireland stores until further notice .
The closures will begin from 6pm on Friday , March 20 .
The flat pack furniture giant had already closed its restaurants and cafés but said it will now close fully in 'these extraordinary circumstances ' .
A spokesman added : `` Ikea UK & Ireland today announced that , as a precautionary measure against the ongoing risk of COVID-19 , it will temporarily close its stores to customers at 6pm on Friday 20 March .
`` In line with recommendations from local authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures in place , including the closure of its restaurants , cafes and bistros ; enhanced cleaning routines ; and the closure of its outside playground facilities .
`` Customers will continue to be able to shop online at IKEA.co.uk and have products delivered directly to their homes .
`` They will be able to request contact-free deliveries if they prefer .
`` People are at the heart of the Ikea business and the retailer is committed to supporting its co-workers in the best possible way during this complex and fast-evolving situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to its stores soon and thanks customers for their understanding during these extraordinary circumstances . ''

The closures will begin from 6pm on Friday, March 20.
The flat pack furniture giant had already closed its restaurants and cafés but said it will now close fully in 'these extraordinary circumstances'.
A spokesman added: "Ikea UK & Ireland today announced that, as a precautionary measure against the ongoing risk of COVID-19, it will temporarily close its stores to customers at 6pm on Friday 20 March.
"In line with recommendations from local authorities, Ikea had already put additional precautionary measures in place, including the closure of its restaurants, cafes and bistros; enhanced cleaning routines; and the closure of its outside playground facilities.
"Customers will continue to be able to shop online at IKEA.co.uk and have products delivered directly to their homes.
"They will be able to request contact-free deliveries if they prefer.
"People are at the heart of the Ikea business and the retailer is committed to supporting its co-workers in the best possible way during this complex and fast-evolving situation.
"IKEA looks forward to welcoming customers back to its stores soon and thanks customers for their understanding during these extraordinary circumstances."


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Daily Echo #ThereWithYou campaign

We are living in unprecedented times .
None of us has seen anything like the coronavirus pandemic before .
As the Prime Minister said : we are facing the worst public health crisis in a generation .
But together , down the years , this newspaper and its readers have come through some of the greatest threats to society ever recorded and if we continue to stick together , we will come through this , too .
Our lives are being turned upside down : schools are shutting down ; parents are struggling to juggle work and home life ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whilst safeguarding their very futures .
Pubs , clubs , restaurants .
Theatres , cafes , sports centres and many , many more small independent traders , all facing months of tradeless isolation .
Thanks must go to those putting themselves in harm ’ s way in the care sector , as the NHS prepares to look coronavirus in the eye and not back down , caring for our loved ones should they be among those who contract the virus .
Thousands will .
But there are things we can all do to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It starts by seeking out the very latest expert guidance on what to do and what not to do as the pandemic gathers pace in the coming weeks and months .
We will bring you that guidance .
We know that for you , having a constant feed of reliable news and information that you trust is vital , and this is our commitment to you : whatever happens , we will be there for you .
There to help you make sense of the situation .
There to steer you towards any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer reassurance and a calm , steady hand .
We know that in the worst of times , the very best in people comes to the fore and so part of the commitment we are making to you today is to shine a light on the heroes in this hour of need .
The volunteers getting bread , cheese and milk for those who can not .
The fundraisers keeping small businesses afloat .
The care in the community nurses not stopping for breath on their mission to look after the vulnerable .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and good causes .
We know that you are going to need us just as much as we need you .
We will be there for you as , down the years , you have been there for us .
Together , we will defeat coronavirus and emerge from it as stronger , tighter , more resilient communities than ever before .
Look after each other .

But together, down the years, this newspaper and its readers have come through some of the greatest threats to society ever recorded and if we continue to stick together, we will come through this, too.
Our lives are being turned upside down: schools are shutting down; parents are struggling to juggle work and home life; businesses are scrambling to protect their employees whilst safeguarding their very futures. Pubs, clubs, restaurants. Theatres, cafes, sports centres and many, many more small independent traders, all facing months of tradeless isolation.
Thanks must go to those putting themselves in harm’s way in the care sector, as the NHS prepares to look coronavirus in the eye and not back down, caring for our loved ones should they be among those who contract the virus. Thousands will. But there are things we can all do to better protect ourselves and our families. It starts by seeking out the very latest expert guidance on what to do and what not to do as the pandemic gathers pace in the coming weeks and months. We will bring you that guidance.
We know that for you, having a constant feed of reliable news and information that you trust is vital, and this is our commitment to you: whatever happens, we will be there for you. There to help you make sense of the situation. There to steer you towards any help you might need. There to offer reassurance and a calm, steady hand.
We know that in the worst of times, the very best in people comes to the fore and so part of the commitment we are making to you today is to shine a light on the heroes in this hour of need. The volunteers getting bread, cheese and milk for those who cannot. The fundraisers keeping small businesses afloat. The care in the community nurses not stopping for breath on their mission to look after the vulnerable.
We will highlight any positive community initiatives and good causes. We know that you are going to need us just as much as we need you. We will be there for you as, down the years, you have been there for us.
Together, we will defeat coronavirus and emerge from it as stronger, tighter, more resilient communities than ever before.
Look after each other.
Gordon Sutter,
Editor, Southern Daily Echo.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Biker took baseball bat to Hunters Inn, Romsey, and demanded apology from another customer

AN ANGRY biker turned up to a pub with a baseball bat to demand an apology from a fellow customer who he had become embroiled in a row with , a court was told .
Lindsay Dean Hastings returned to the Hunters Inn , in Romey , with the weapon tucked in his jacket .
The incident came after he had been arguing with the man earlier on the same evening .
But Hastings , of Mortimer Close , Totton , quickly left the scene after he was told the man , named only as “ Paul ” , had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Inn then locked the pub up following the incident .
Now Hastings has been given a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to an offence of possessing an offensive weapon .
Southampton Crown Court heard how the incident began when Hastings and a group were in the pub , on Winchester Hill , on March 10 , 2019 .
The court heard Hastings was being “ loud ” and swearing when he was asked to calm down by bar staff .
The 46-year-old was later asked to leave by a man named “ Paul @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come outside .
Hastings left the scene on his motorbike , but returned around 9pm .
The court heard that on his return he was spotted with a baseball bat and he asked if Paul was there as he wanted an apology .
He was told that Paul was not there and he later left the scene .
Mitigating , Fran Kirby told the court that Hastings did not brandish the baseball bat , which was kept in his jacket throughout the incident .
She said Hastings was asked to leave the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Hastings suffered from memory problems and did not remember the incident .
In sentencing , Judge Peter Henry said : “ To go to the pub with a baseball bat in those circumstances was not only stupid but it was very dangerous.
” Hastings was given a four month prison sentence , which was suspended for two years .
He was also ordered to pay court costs of £400 .

Lindsay Dean Hastings returned to the Hunters Inn, in Romey, with the weapon tucked in his jacket.
The incident came after he had been arguing with the man earlier on the same evening.
But Hastings, of Mortimer Close, Totton, quickly left the scene after he was told the man, named only as “Paul”, had since left.
Bosses at the Hunters Inn then locked the pub up following the incident.
Now Hastings has been given a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to an offence of possessing an offensive weapon.
Southampton Crown Court heard how the incident began when Hastings and a group were in the pub, on Winchester Hill, on March 10, 2019.
The court heard Hastings was being “loud” and swearing when he was asked to calm down by bar staff.
The 46-year-old was later asked to leave by a man named “Paul” and Hastings responded by asking him to come outside.
Hastings left the scene on his motorbike, but returned around 9pm.
The court heard that on his return he was spotted with a baseball bat and he asked if Paul was there as he wanted an apology.
He was told that Paul was not there and he later left the scene.
Mitigating, Fran Kirby told the court that Hastings did not brandish the baseball bat, which was kept in his jacket throughout the incident.
She said Hastings was asked to leave the pub and did.
Ms Kirby added that Hastings suffered from memory problems and did not remember the incident.
In sentencing, Judge Peter Henry said: “To go to the pub with a baseball bat in those circumstances was not only stupid but it was very dangerous.”
Hastings was given a four month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to pay court costs of £400.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Man attacked two Department for Work and Pensions employees

A SOUTHAMPTON man who assaulted two job centre employees has been jailed .
Scott Kevin Moore , 41 , assaulted @ @ @ @ @ Pensions ( DWP ) employees in Southampton on December 11 .
Appearing at Southampton Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ guilty to two accounts of assault by beating .
Moore , of Springford Road , @ @ @ @ @ prison for 10 week and handed a restraining order banning him from entering the Southampton @ @ @ @ @ House on Bernard Street .
He was ordered to pay £175 compensation as well as @ @ @ @ @ court costs .

Scott Kevin Moore, 41, assaulted two Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) employees in Southampton on December 11.
Appearing at Southampton Magistrates' Court, he pleaded guilty to two accounts of assault by beating.
Moore, of Springford Road, Southampton, was committed to prison for 10 week and handed a restraining order banning him from entering the Southampton Job Centre at St Cross House on Bernard Street.
He was ordered to pay £175 compensation as well as £122 victim surcharge and £498 court costs.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--All pubs, cafes, nightclubs and bars ordered to shut due to coronavirus pandemic

Boris Johnson has ordered pubs and restaurants across the country to close as the Government announced unprecedented measures to cover the wages of workers who would otherwise lose their jobs due to the coronavirus outbreak .
The Prime Minister said that nightclubs , theatres , gyms and leisure centres should close their doors from Friday night to slow the spread of Covid-19 and prevent the NHS coming under unsustainable pressure .
At his daily Downing Street press conference , the Prime Minister said the measures were needed to reduce `` unnecessary '' social gatherings by 75 % in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The speed of our eventual recovery depends entirely on our collective ability to get on top of the virus now and that means we have to take the next steps on scientific advice , '' he told the daily Covid-19 press conference , '' he said .
`` And following our plan we are strengthening the measures announced on Monday .
`` We need now to push down further on that curve of transmission between us . ''
He was followed by Chancellor Rushi Sunak who said he was establishing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit by the outbreak .
He said that they would be able to apply to HM Revenue and Customs to cover 80 % of the wages of staff they keep on up to £2,500 a week .

The Prime Minister said that nightclubs, theatres, gyms and leisure centres should close their doors from Friday night to slow the spread of Covid-19 and prevent the NHS coming under unsustainable pressure.
At his daily Downing Street press conference, the Prime Minister said the measures were needed to reduce "unnecessary" social gatherings by 75% in order to have an impact on the infection rate.
"The speed of our eventual recovery depends entirely on our collective ability to get on top of the virus now and that means we have to take the next steps on scientific advice," he told the daily Covid-19 press conference," he said.
"And following our plan we are strengthening the measures announced on Monday.
"We need now to push down further on that curve of transmission between us."
He was followed by Chancellor Rushi Sunak who said he was establishing a coronavirus job protection scheme to help employers hit by the outbreak.
He said that they would be able to apply to HM Revenue and Customs to cover 80% of the wages of staff they keep on up to £2,500 a week.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Krystian Kwarta guilty of raping woman at Southampton's Westquay centre

A MAN has pleaded gullty to raping a woman at Westquay shopping centre in Southampton .
Krystian Kwarta , 20 @ @ @ @ @ Milford-on-Sea , admitted two charges of rape and one of assault occasioning bodily harm .
@ @ @ @ @ Crown Court today came following an investigation by Hampshire Constabulary 's Operation Amberstone team .
@ @ @ @ @ morning of February 15 this year .
As reported by the Daily Echo , police @ @ @ @ @ at about 8am and put a cordon up after the 21-year-old woman was attacked .
@ @ @ @ @ near the entrance to John Lewis , off Harbour Parade .
Following the incident Southampton @ @ @ @ @ cabinet member for a healthier and safer city , said : `` I 'm always @ @ @ @ @ in the city centre at any time , and I 'm keen to work with @ @ @ @ @ to make Southampton a safer place . ''
Kwarta will be sentenced at the same @ @ @ @ @

Krystian Kwarta, 20, of Keyhaven Road, Milford-on-Sea, admitted two charges of rape and one of assault occasioning bodily harm.
The guilty plea at Southampton Crown Court today came following an investigation by Hampshire Constabulary's Operation Amberstone team.
The incident happened on the morning of February 15 this year.
As reported by the Daily Echo, police were called to the scene at about 8am and put a cordon up after the 21-year-old woman was attacked.
Officers were at the scene near the entrance to John Lewis, off Harbour Parade.
Following the incident Southampton City Councillor Dave Shields, cabinet member for a healthier and safer city, said: "I'm always concerned to see serious crime in the city centre at any time, and I'm keen to work with local businesses and the police to make Southampton a safer place."
Kwarta will be sentenced at the same court on April 30.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Wetherspoons sparks row by refusing to close pubs

THE boss of Wetherspoons has sparked a row by insisting his pubs should be allowed to stay open .
Chairman Tim Martin claimed closing pubs would not have health benefits , despite the government ’ s advice that people should stay away from gathering in bars and restaurants .
His views contrast with those of the Brewhouse & Kitchen chain , which said it was “ not prepared to run our business in denial ” .
Mr Martin , 64 , who describes himself as a former heavy smoker with two major operations under his belt , said he would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` If someone offered me the opportunity now to have it under supervised conditions , I think I 'd probably take it because your chances are very , very good , '' he told reporters on a call .
He said : `` Our main desire is that pubs should remain open , rather in the way that Parliament has remained open .
`` You 'd be aghast if every MP was sitting next to every other MP , but it 's right that it should stay open on a sensible basis .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing '' would happen automatically in Wetherspoons as the number of punters drops .
Wetherspoon ’ s 867 pubs include Southampton revenues the Standing Order , the Admiral Sir Lucius Curtis and the Red Lion , as well as the Oal Gaolhouse in Winchester , the Wagon Works in Eastleigh and the Six Bells in Lymington .
Mr Martin also said that he could introduce rules which prevent people from standing at the bar and would get staff to clean down the surfaces twice an hour .
Mr Martin said that one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This would not be possible to roll-out to all Wetherspoons outlets , but it is `` one of a variety of moves '' available to management .
`` Closure is much more draconian , and we do n't think that it brings health benefits , and it certainly does n't bring economic benefits , '' he added .
Government advice , which it received from healthcare experts , is to stay away from pubs and restaurants to limit the spread of the disease .
The Brewhouse & Kitchen and Loungers chains are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has a pub in Highfield Lane , Southampton , said in its announcement : “ We are not prepared to ‘ play chicken ’ with the government , defy the advice of the science over the safety of our team , our guests and our wider communities .
“ We are responsible members of the community , and as such we will take the right and appropriate measures .
It is time to show decisiveness , we are now consulting with our teams , who so far have been amazing and fully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been overwhelming .
“ We are not prepared to run our business in denial , we have made a difficult decision , we now need leadership and support over the coming months.
” It said it was working on “ a number of initiatives to support our communities and health workers ” and would reopen when it was safe .

Chairman Tim Martin claimed closing pubs would not have health benefits, despite the government’s advice that people should stay away from gathering in bars and restaurants.
His views contrast with those of the Brewhouse & Kitchen chain, which said it was “not prepared to run our business in denial”.
Mr Martin, 64, who describes himself as a former heavy smoker with two major operations under his belt, said he would take his chances with the disease.
"If someone offered me the opportunity now to have it under supervised conditions, I think I'd probably take it because your chances are very, very good," he told reporters on a call.
He said: "Our main desire is that pubs should remain open, rather in the way that Parliament has remained open.
"You'd be aghast if every MP was sitting next to every other MP, but it's right that it should stay open on a sensible basis."
He said that "reasonable social distancing" would happen automatically in Wetherspoons as the number of punters drops.
Wetherspoon’s 867 pubs include Southampton revenues the Standing Order, the Admiral Sir Lucius Curtis and the Red Lion, as well as the Old Gaolhouse in Winchester, the Wagon Works in Eastleigh and the Six Bells in Lymington.
Mr Martin also said that he could introduce rules which prevent people from standing at the bar and would get staff to clean down the surfaces twice an hour.
Mr Martin said that one of his pubs had introduced a regulars-only policy. This would not be possible to roll-out to all Wetherspoons outlets, but it is "one of a variety of moves" available to management.
"Closure is much more draconian, and we don't think that it brings health benefits, and it certainly doesn't bring economic benefits," he added.
Government advice, which it received from healthcare experts, is to stay away from pubs and restaurants to limit the spread of the disease.
The Brewhouse & Kitchen and Loungers chains are closing temporarily.
Brewhouse & Kitchen, which has a pub in Highfield Lane, Southampton, said in its announcement: “We are not prepared to ‘play chicken’ with the government, defy the advice of the science over the safety of our team, our guests and our wider communities.
“We are responsible members of the community, and as such we will take the right and appropriate measures. It is time to show decisiveness, we are now consulting with our teams, who so far have been amazing and fully understand our decision, their support has been overwhelming.
“We are not prepared to run our business in denial, we have made a difficult decision, we now need leadership and support over the coming months.”
It said it was working on “a number of initiatives to support our communities and health workers” and would reopen when it was safe.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Paultons Park closes "until further notice" due to coronavirus

HAMPSHIRE theme park , Paultons Park will close this evening until further notice -and its four-acre expansion has been postponed .
The popular children 's theme park , based in Romey , announced that due to the government 's advice to practise social distancing because of the coronavirus outbreak , the park will close this evening at 5pm and will remain closed until further notice .
According to the theme park management , this is `` not a decision that 's been made easily '' but the health of guests and staff members is the number one priority .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the developing situation surrounding coronavirus and the most recent advice from the government , we are very sorry to say that Paultons Park will close from 5pm on Friday March 20 until further notice .
`` This is not a decision that has been made easily having already implemented many additional measures to protect both our guests , staff and suppliers .
However , we now feel this is the only and correct course of action available to us in order to limit social interaction in line with the clear recommendations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We know this is disappointing news , particularly to those who have planned a visit , but as a family business , the health and wellbeing of our guests and staff is and always has been our top priority , and we hope you understand and support us in this decision . ''
As part of this closure , the four-acre park expansion that was due to open in May has also been postponed .
The Tornado Springs expansion , set to bring another eight rides and attractions to the park has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unveiled in June 2019 , the rides are themed around a Midwest desert town in 1950 's America , with the `` Storm Chaser '' rollercoaster -a free-spinning ride taking carriages to a height of 20 metres above ground- set to be the only ride of its kind in the UK .
It is not yet known when this expansion will officially open after its launch was postponed .
Anyone who has purchased advanced online tickets can use them to visit the park until November 2 , and if they ca n't make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tickets can be upgraded to the 2021 season on arrival at the park next year .
While season tickets will be valid once the park re-opens and further information will be provided at a later date .
If you have booked a `` Paultons Official Short Break '' between March 19 and April 24 , you will be contacted to cancel your booking and receive a refund , or a voucher to book at a later date .

The popular children's theme park, based in Romey, announced that due to the government's advice to practise social distancing because of the coronavirus outbreak, the park will close this evening at 5pm and will remain closed until further notice.
According to the theme park management, this is "not a decision that's been made easily" but the health of guests and staff members is the number one priority.
A Paultons Park spokesperson said: "In response to the developing situation surrounding coronavirus and the most recent advice from the government, we are very sorry to say that Paultons Park will close from 5pm on Friday March 20 until further notice.
"This is not a decision that has been made easily having already implemented many additional measures to protect both our guests, staff and suppliers. However, we now feel this is the only and correct course of action available to us in order to limit social interaction in line with the clear recommendations laid out by the Prime Minister.
"We know this is disappointing news, particularly to those who have planned a visit, but as a family business, the health and wellbeing of our guests and staff is and always has been our top priority, and we hope you understand and support us in this decision."
As part of this closure, the four-acre park expansion that was due to open in May has also been postponed.
The Tornado Springs expansion, set to bring another eight rides and attractions to the park has been put on hold.
After being unveiled in June 2019, the rides are themed around a Midwest desert town in 1950's America, with the "Storm Chaser" rollercoaster -a free-spinning ride taking carriages to a height of 20 metres above ground- set to be the only ride of its kind in the UK.
It is not yet known when this expansion will officially open after its launch was postponed.
Anyone who has purchased advanced online tickets can use them to visit the park until November 2, and if they can't make it before the expiry date, the tickets can be upgraded to the 2021 season on arrival at the park next year.
While season tickets will be valid once the park re-opens and further information will be provided at a later date.
If you have booked a "Paultons Official Short Break" between March 19 and April 24, you will be contacted to cancel your booking and receive a refund, or a voucher to book at a later date.


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Dogstival put back from May until September - and it's moving from Pylewell Park to Burley Park

ONE of Hampshire 's biggest animal events has been postponed until the autumn as coronavirus continues to tighten its grip on the county .
The two-day Dogstival show was due to be held at Pylewell Park , near Lymington , in May but is now scheduled to take place at Burley Park , Burley , in September .
Co-founder Richard Nowell said : “ It 's obvious that trying to put on a live event in under eight weeks ' time would not be a responsible decision under the current circumstances .
`` People are naturally concerned and should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unnecessary contact with others in order to stop the spread of coronavirus .
“ We have been in ongoing contact with various event stakeholders and are delighted to have received their overwhelming support for September 5 and 6 .
`` While there are still a number of areas to be finalised , Dogstival is set to be a great day out for dogs and dog-lovers .
`` It 's disappointing to be leaving Pylewell Park but the estate has a busy schedule of weddings across late summer and autumn so a new date @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Our new venue in Burley is in the very heart of the New Forest and the space works brilliantly .
`` We 'd like to extend a huge thanks to Anthony Climpson at Go New Forest for his work and support with the change of venue .
His wealth of contacts and desire to find solutions has been invaluable . ''
Mr Nowell said Dogstival organisers were working hard to ensure that dog-lovers would experience a raft of entertainment .
He added : `` While there will be changes to the line-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming days , the festival will still host a wealth of have-a-go activities , advice and tips from experts . ''
Mr Nowell said the event would also feature live music , more than 150 retailers and a raft of food and drink supplied by New Forest producers .
He added : `` Unfortunately the change of venue means our pop-up ‘ festival ’ campsite will not be possible – something we are working to find a solution for .
`` Dogstival is also delighted to have retained the support from its sponsors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like to thank each of them in-turn , especially during difficult economic times . ''
Anyone who has bought tickets for May will be able to use them in September instead .
If they are unable to attend their tickets will be valid for the 2021 Dogstival .
`` If their preference is for a full refund this will of course be honoured but we hope people will try to find a way of supporting the event , '' said Mr Nowell .

The two-day Dogstival show was due to be held at Pylewell Park, near Lymington, in May but is now scheduled to take place at Burley Park, Burley, in September.
Co-founder Richard Nowell said: “It's obvious that trying to put on a live event in under eight weeks' time would not be a responsible decision under the current circumstances.
"People are naturally concerned and should be staying at home wherever possible, avoiding unnecessary contact with others in order to stop the spread of coronavirus.
“We have been in ongoing contact with various event stakeholders and are delighted to have received their overwhelming support for September 5 and 6.
"While there are still a number of areas to be finalised, Dogstival is set to be a great day out for dogs and dog-lovers.
"It's disappointing to be leaving Pylewell Park but the estate has a busy schedule of weddings across late summer and autumn so a new date for Dogstival was just not feasible.
"Our new venue in Burley is in the very heart of the New Forest and the space works brilliantly.
"We'd like to extend a huge thanks to Anthony Climpson at Go New Forest for his work and support with the change of venue. His wealth of contacts and desire to find solutions has been invaluable."
Mr Nowell said Dogstival organisers were working hard to ensure that dog-lovers would experience a raft of entertainment.
He added: "While there will be changes to the line-up, which will be announced over the coming days, the festival will still host a wealth of have-a-go activities, advice and tips from experts."
Mr Nowell said the event would also feature live music, more than 150 retailers and a raft of food and drink supplied by New Forest producers.
He added: "Unfortunately the change of venue means our pop-up ‘festival’ campsite will not be possible – something we are working to find a solution for.
"Dogstival is also delighted to have retained the support from its sponsors, commercial partners and stallholders and would like to thank each of them in-turn, especially during difficult economic times."
Anyone who has bought tickets for May will be able to use them in September instead. If they are unable to attend their tickets will be valid for the 2021 Dogstival.
"If their preference is for a full refund this will of course be honoured but we hope people will try to find a way of supporting the event," said Mr Nowell.
CONTACT ME
t: 023 8042 4503
e: chris.yandell@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-03-20--Two young men assaulted in Southampton home

OFFICERS attended an assault in Southampton this morning .
Police say they were called by South Central Ambulance Service at @ @ @ @ @ reports of two young men being assaulted .
The assault took place at a home @ @ @ @ @ .
Police say there will be no investigation into the assault .
A full police @ @ @ @ @ were called at 8.46am this morning by our colleagues in South Central Ambulance Service reporting @ @ @ @ @ been assaulted at a home in Ocean Way .
`` At this time , neither @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Police say they were called by South Central Ambulance Service at 8.46am to Ocean Village following reports of two young men being assaulted.
The assault took place at a home on Ocean Way, Southampton.
Police say there will be no investigation into the assault.
A full police statement said: "We were called at 8.46am this morning by our colleagues in South Central Ambulance Service reporting that two young men had been assaulted at a home in Ocean Way.
"Officers attended the scene.
"At this time, neither victim supports a police investigation."


thedailyecho--2020-03-21--Outraged residents shocked by Southampton customers "total disrespect" of elderly residents

OUTRAGED residents are shocked by the `` total disrespect '' of shoppers not listening to supermarkets ' plea to allow elderly residents to more time to shop .
As previously reported , many supermarkets have introduced shopping restrictions to allow elderly and vulnerable residents the chance to shop for their essentials before crowds empty the shelves .
Shops such as Sainsburys , Iceland and Asda have urged shoppers to be considerate and follow their requests to delay their shopping until certain times to allow this to happen .
• The 13 alternative supermarket ingredients to use if what you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Southampton , believes this is not being respected by shoppers and said that elderly people were being `` pushed aside '' at Asda in Totton on the morning of February 20 , which was packed despite fit and healthy customers being asked to wait until 9am to shop .
• Which high street shops are open and closed due to coronavirus ?
The retired policewoman said : `` I was there shopping for my elderly mother but it was absolute mayhem .
No one was being checked at the door , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it being for the elderly .
It 's a total disrespect !
Elderly shoppers were being pushed aside , and I even saw a younger woman take a toilet roll from an older woman 's trolley but staff did n't seem to care .
I was shocked by how people were being treated , it 's an absolute farce . ''
Another shopper at a Southampton Tesco Store said : `` I went there this morning to get a few bits .
People Pushing and shoving .
Was particularly appalled at an old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the last packet of free range eggs . ''
A spokesperson for Asda has again pleaded for the public to be responsible .
They said : `` We are asking those customers who know they aren ’ t in these group categories to not shop at this time and let these vulnerable groups have access and to shop responsibly .
There are enough essential items to go around . ''
• The 13 alternative supermarket ingredients to use if what you need is n't available Southampton MP , Alan Whitehead has urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the community can `` get through this together '' .
He said : `` This is troubling to hear .
I have already had a number of calls from elderly constituents who are struggling to get shopping delivered online but who are worried about going out to busy shops .
`` I would urge everyone to respect these hours and allow older people who have been told that they are in the at risk group , to shop at a quieter time .
The food supply chain is not disrupted at the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to get everything back on the shelves as quickly as possible .
This will be easier if people respect limits on essentials and do n't stockpile .
`` Please be kind to each other and we will get through this together . ''

As previously reported, many supermarkets have introduced shopping restrictions to allow elderly and vulnerable residents the chance to shop for their essentials before crowds empty the shelves.
Shops such as Sainsburys, Iceland and Asda have urged shoppers to be considerate and follow their requests to delay their shopping until certain times to allow this to happen.
However, Julia Veal from Southampton, believes this is not being respected by shoppers and said that elderly people were being "pushed aside" at Asda in Totton on the morning of February 20, which was packed despite fit and healthy customers being asked to wait until 9am to shop.
The retired policewoman said: "I was there shopping for my elderly mother but it was absolute mayhem. No one was being checked at the door, it was packed from 7am until 9am despite it being for the elderly. It's a total disrespect! Elderly shoppers were being pushed aside, and I even saw a younger woman take a toilet roll from an older woman's trolley but staff didn't seem to care. I was shocked by how people were being treated, it's an absolute farce."
Another shopper at a Southampton Tesco Store said: "I went there this morning to get a few bits. People Pushing and shoving. Was particularly appalled at an old lady being pushed out of the way for the last packet of free range eggs."
A spokesperson for Asda has again pleaded for the public to be responsible.
They said: "We are asking those customers who know they aren’t in these group categories to not shop at this time and let these vulnerable groups have access and to shop responsibly. There are enough essential items to go around."
Southampton MP, Alan Whitehead has urged the public to be kind so that the community can "get through this together".
He said: "This is troubling to hear. I have already had a number of calls from elderly constituents who are struggling to get shopping delivered online but who are worried about going out to busy shops.
"I would urge everyone to respect these hours and allow older people who have been told that they are in the at risk group, to shop at a quieter time. The food supply chain is not disrupted at the moment and I know local shops are working hard to get everything back on the shelves as quickly as possible. This will be easier if people respect limits on essentials and don't stockpile.
"Please be kind to each other and we will get through this together."


thedailyecho--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: 107 cases now confirmed in Hampshire

THE number of confirmed cases in Hampshire now stands at 107 .
It is the second highest number of cases @ @ @ @ @ .
The latest figures , which were published on Friday night , give the number @ @ @ @ @ on Friday .
Southwark has the highest number of cases at 110 .
The total @ @ @ @ @ UK is 3,983 , with 3,384 in England .
According to the latest figures , @ @ @ @ @ cases .
A total of 177 people have died in the UK .

It is the second highest number of cases across the UK by authority.
The latest figures, which were published on Friday night, give the number of cases as of 9am on Friday.
Southwark has the highest number of cases at 110.
The total number of cases in the UK is 3,983, with 3,384 in England.
According to the latest figures, there were 714 daily confirmed cases.
A total of 177 people have died in the UK.
More follows.


thedailyecho--2020-03-21--Coronavirus: the latest across Hampshire as 107 cases are confirmed