thedailyecho--2020-08-27--Thief's RIDICULOUS excuse as to why he took Donald the donkey

DONALD the donkey belied his breed 's reputation by running away from his pedestrian pursuers , even pulling a cart .
He had been left outside a pub for just two minutes while owner George Newman slaked his thirst , unaware wily Walter Wilcox was watching .
The old rogue then strolled across the road and clambered on board .
`` George , someone is moving your cart , '' shouted Tom Humby , a fellow drinker at the Roebuck Tavern in Gosport 's town centre .
Newman , a gardener , dashed from the bar , only to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street and around Market Street corner .
Licensee Fred Brown joined the pair in giving chase , a hopeless one at that .
`` I saw him galloping up North Street , I would say at a rate of 12 miles an hour , '' he recounted .
`` I have never seen a donkey move so fast in all my life .
There was a man in the cart flogging it in a fearful manner . ''
By chance , Brown came across Pc Abbott and together they took a cab to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neared the town side of the old double arches , they met another cab owner in Bill Phillips who had only gone after Willcox , holding the donkey in one hand and the villain in the other .
When challenged , Wilcox blustered : `` All right , Mr Ripley told me to take this donkey to Portsea . ''
That story had little credence and three days later on March 10 , 1874 , he appeared before the town magistrates , charged with theft of the donkey which was valued at £4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had been walking down the High Street when he was approached by a stranger who offered him a job .
`` He said his name was Ripley and he asked me if I would drive the donkey to The Wire public house and if anyone asked me where I was going , I was not to tell .
He told me 'There is a stick in the bottom of the cart and you can wake him up with that .
I 'll be there in half an hour and you can have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then pulled out some money but altered his mind and placed it back in his pocket . ''
Magistrates committed him for trial and he appeared before Melville Portal at Hampshire Quarter Sessions on April 6 where he put forward the same preposterous story .
Jurors never bothered to leave their seats to return the inevitable conviction which resulted in four months hard labour and a scolding from the judge : `` This was the most impudent and barefaced attempt at robbery . ''

He had been left outside a pub for just two minutes while owner George Newman slaked his thirst, unaware wily Walter Wilcox was watching. The old rogue then strolled across the road and clambered on board.
"George, someone is moving your cart," shouted Tom Humby, a fellow drinker at the Roebuck Tavern in Gosport's town centre.
Newman, a gardener, dashed from the bar, only to see the donkey being driven down the High Street and around Market Street corner.
Licensee Fred Brown joined the pair in giving chase, a hopeless one at that.
"I saw him galloping up North Street, I would say at a rate of 12 miles an hour," he recounted. "I have never seen a donkey move so fast in all my life. There was a man in the cart flogging it in a fearful manner."
By chance, Brown came across Pc Abbott and together they took a cab to go after the thief but as they neared the town side of the old double arches, they met another cab owner in Bill Phillips who had only gone after Willcox, holding the donkey in one hand and the villain in the other.
When challenged, Wilcox blustered: "All right, Mr Ripley told me to take this donkey to Portsea."
That story had little credence and three days later on March 10, 1874,he appeared before the town magistrates, charged with theft of the donkey which was valued at £4.
Pleading not guilty, Wilcox claimed he had been walking down the High Street when he was approached by a stranger who offered him a job.
"He said his name was Ripley and he asked me if I would drive the donkey to The Wire public house and if anyone asked me where I was going, I was not to tell. He told me 'There is a stick in the bottom of the cart and you can wake him up with that. I'll be there in half an hour and you can have plenty of booze.'
"He then pulled out some money but altered his mind and placed it back in his pocket."
Magistrates committed him for trial and he appeared before Melville Portal at Hampshire Quarter Sessions on April 6 where he put forward the same preposterous story.
Jurors never bothered to leave their seats to return the inevitable conviction which resulted in four months hard labour and a scolding from the judge: "This was the most impudent and barefaced attempt at robbery."


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--Newborns bring joy to Hampshire families

WAVE a special greeting to the region ’ s cutest new additions .
We ’ ve brought our readers the cutest little faces that were captured just moments after being born , or during their first week in the world .
And life is slightly different for the newborns , as they have arrived in Hampshire during a global pandemic .
While many people across the region are still shielding or adjusting to their newly-shaped lives , parents across Southampton , the New Forest , Winchester , Eastleigh and Fareham have been bringing lovely little humans into the world .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but having a newborn amid the coronavirus pandemic has been a battle for many across the region .
In one instance , a father was unable to be at the birth of his new daughter as he is not allowed off the ship where he works .
Much like other parents , they have had to adjust to some unusual circumstances due to Covid-19 .
Our readers have been left cooing over our weekly addition of featured new residents .
It doesn ’ t stop there either , as we can ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ babies to be showcased in the Daily Echo .
Every Thursday on our New Arrivals page we give them a big welcome to the world .
To share your newborn with the world , fill in the short form at dailyecho.co.uk/new-arrivals and add a picture .
• ARLO Finley Hodder was born just under two weeks before the lockdown on March 12 in Southampton .
The 7lbs 10oz is already a Saints fan alongside his family - Lew Hodder and Laura Pearce .
• BEAUTIFUL lockdown baby Barney David Rowe weighed in at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anne Hospital on April 7 .
He 's the son of Tess Caton and David Rowe .
• EMILIA Mei Ziemann is the newest arrival to the Ziemann family and was born into the world at Princess Anne Hospital .
The 5lb 14oz baby , born on June 25 , is the daughter of Catherine and James .
• EVERLEIGH Rose Whale has joined older brother Logan as a gorgeous new addition in Winchester , a newborn to Paige Louise Harper and Anthony Aaron Whale .
She weighed in at 8lb 5oz after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Royal Hampshire Hospital on May 18 .
• GRACIE Dorothy Ann Louise Rose is the latest addition to the Rose family from Winchester .
Born the day before the lockdown was announced , the beautiful newborn of Charlotte and Stuart arrived in Winchester on March 22 at 8lb 6oz .
• JASPER Stephen David Collinson has been keeping his brother Oliver entertained in Marchwood , joining the Collinsons with 8lbs 8.5oz in weight .
The beautiful baby boy was born into the world on June 25 , at Princess Anne Hospital .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ newest member of the Weeks family from Thornhill .
Born in Southampton on May 6 weighing 6lbs 14oz , he is the son of Hayley and Rikki .
• KYANNA Bella-Rose Wright arrived at Princess Anne Hospital on June 1 to Amanda and Jase Wright .
The only child to the Southampton-based family weighed in at 8lbs 3oz .
• LEO Christopher Vokes is the youngest new sibling to Jake and Evie .
Keeping them and his parents Katie and Ben Vokes busy during the lockdown , he came into the world at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on June 16 .
• MARLI Aria Mae Rosalin was born while the Covid-19 lockdown was well underway , on June 13 .
She is the gorgeous newborn of Katie Martin and Byren Rosalin , who live in Romsey , and weighed 6lbs 12oz .
• MILA Rae Burrough has been welcomed into the world by Simon and Sam Burrough from Eastleigh .
Their 7lbs 8oz daughter was born on May 15 at Royal Hampshire Hospital in Winchester .
• THOMAS Derick Edward Burnett joined the Burnett family in Southampton on June 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was born two weeks past his due date to Emily and Oliver from Hedge End .

We’ve brought our readers the cutest little faces that were captured just moments after being born, or during their first week in the world.
And life is slightly different for the newborns, as they have arrived in Hampshire during a global pandemic.
While many people across the region are still shielding or adjusting to their newly-shaped lives, parents across Southampton, the New Forest, Winchester, Eastleigh and Fareham have been bringing lovely little humans into the world.
Birth is never usually an easy ride, but having a newborn amid the coronavirus pandemic has been a battle for many across the region.
In one instance, a father was unable to be at the birth of his new daughter as he is not allowed off the ship where he works. Much like other parents, they have had to adjust to some unusual circumstances due to Covid-19.
Our readers have been left cooing over our weekly addition of featured new residents.
It doesn’t stop there either, as we can’t wait to show you many more babies to be showcased in the Daily Echo.
Every Thursday on our New Arrivals page we give them a big welcome to the world.
To share your newborn with the world, fill in the short form at dailyecho.co.uk/new-arrivals and add a picture.


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--Landslip blocks lines between Winchester and Micheldever

RAIL passengers are facing disruption following a landslip that has blocked lines between Micheldever and Winchester .
South Western Railway ( SWR ) has announced that services running through the two stations may be cancelled , delayed or diverted via Havant .
The company warned that disruption was expected to continue `` until the end of the day '' .
The landslide , thought to have triggered by strong winds and torrential rain , has brought misery to people returning home in the evening rush-hour .
In a statement SWR said : `` We have been informed of a landslip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that all lines are currently blocked between these stations .
`` Until further notice , the following alterations may apply : '' Services between London Waterloo and Bournemouth may be diverted via Havant .
`` We have also requested replacement buses between Basingstoke and Southampton Central .
Once these are confirmed , start times and locations will be updated/ '' For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point .
`` We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause @ @ @ @ @

South Western Railway (SWR) has announced that services running through the two stations may be cancelled, delayed or diverted via Havant.
The company warned that disruption was expected to continue "until the end of the day".
The landslide, thought to have triggered by strong winds and torrential rain, has brought misery to people returning home in the evening rush-hour.
In a statement SWR said: "We have been informed of a landslip between Micheldever and Winchester. This means that all lines are currently blocked between these stations.
"Until further notice, the following alterations may apply:
"Services between London Waterloo and Bournemouth may be diverted via Havant.
"We have also requested replacement buses between Basingstoke and Southampton Central. Once these are confirmed, start times and locations will be updated/
"For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.
"We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey."


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--New play area in Eastleigh Park

New play area in Eastleigh Park

Work is taking place at Pirelli Park with large area 's being fenced off .
As of August 17 , work has been taking place at the park to construct a new play area .
Local residents will not have full access to the park until later in the autumn when construction will be complete and the playground will be ready for children to play on .
The estate in Eastleigh is located on the site the Pirelli Cable Factory used to be and as a result , designers have taken inspiration from this heritage for their new project .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cable drums and wires to create structures for play that are unique to this park with the patterns in the safety surface featuring some of the artwork created by local children .
Contracts were finalised with the design company as they worked safely offsite throughout the pandemic to build the pieces for the playground before starting work at the site itself .
The funding for the project came from a combined fund for Play and Public Art , drawn from contributions from the developer of nearby homes , Bellway .
This has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area for the park .

As of August 17, work has been taking place at the park to construct a new play area.
Local residents will not have full access to the park until later in the autumn when construction will be complete and the playground will be ready for children to play on.
The estate in Eastleigh is located on the site the Pirelli Cable Factory used to be and as a result, designers have taken inspiration from this heritage for their new project.
The play space uses the shapes of the cable drums and wires to create structures for play that are unique to this park with the patterns in the safety surface featuring some of the artwork created by local children.
Contracts were finalised with the design company as they worked safely offsite throughout the pandemic to build the pieces for the playground before starting work at the site itself.
The funding for the project came from a combined fund for Play and Public Art, drawn from contributions from the developer of nearby homes, Bellway.
This has been used to commission a bespoke play area for the park.


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--Council pledges to keep borough clean.

Council pledges to keep borough clean.

CIVIC leaders in Eastleigh has pledged its support for this year 's Great British September Clean .
The campaign , run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy , brings together individuals , community organisations , businesses and councils to show they love where they live and in 2019 more than half a million # LitterHeroes collected more than 900,000 bags of rubbish .
The event was postponed in early spring because of the Covid-19 pandemic , and is now running in September from 11-27 .
It is hoped that the campaign will encourage the British public to take part in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ litter from streets , parks and beaches across the country .
Alongside announcing Eastleigh Borough Council 's ( EBC ) support for the campaign , cabinet lead for the environment Cllr Rupert Kyrle said : `` The Great September Spring Clean gives local people a great opportunity to act against litter and improve their local area together .
`` It ’ s such a shame littering happens at all .
`` It ’ s a blight on our environment , harms wildlife and is completely avoidable if people take their litter home with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin .
`` Last spring residents made a real difference so we hope people will be just as enthusiastic about this autumn ’ s community clean up . ''
As part of their commitment to making Eastleigh a greener , cleaner Borough , EBC are loaning litter pickers to groups and are supplying free rubbish bags .
Groups taking part can also liaise with the EBC Street Scene team to arrange for the litter they have gathered to be collected and disposed of .

The campaign, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, brings together individuals, community organisations, businesses and councils to show they love where they live and in 2019 more than half a million #LitterHeroes collected more than 900,000 bags of rubbish.
The event was postponed in early spring because of the Covid-19 pandemic, and is now running in September from 11-27.
It is hoped that the campaign will encourage the British public to take part in small, socially distanced clean-ups to remove litter from streets, parks and beaches across the country.
Alongside announcing Eastleigh Borough Council's (EBC) support for the campaign, cabinet lead for the environment Cllr Rupert Kyrle said: "The Great September Spring Clean gives local people a great opportunity to act against litter and improve their local area together.
"It’s such a shame littering happens at all.
"It’s a blight on our environment, harms wildlife and is completely avoidable if people take their litter home with them or put it in a public bin.
"Last spring residents made a real difference so we hope people will be just as enthusiastic about this autumn’s community clean up."
As part of their commitment to making Eastleigh a greener, cleaner Borough, EBC are loaning litter pickers to groups and are supplying free rubbish bags.
Groups taking part can also liaise with the EBC Street Scene team to arrange for the litter they have gathered to be collected and disposed of.


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--Factory switches to making thousands of the 'world's safest visors'

NHS workers are wearing visors dubbed the “ safest in the world thanks ” to a local business .
BEC Group , a plastic injection moulding specialist , has shifted its resources to providing fully-certified personal protective equipment ( PPE ) .
It is making what it calls the “ world ’ s safest face visors ” , which went through testing , tool and machine moulding stages before being manufactured at the New Milton business .
They were made , assembled and delivered within eight weeks .
BEC Group said its team had “ worked all hours ” on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV ’ s Good Morning Britain being dispatched to University College London .
The company normally produces plastic parts for a range of industries , making everything from tumble dryer and kettle filters to diesel emission reducing filters , smart meters , helmets , electronic casings and anti-flood bricks .
Clare Elvy , BEC ’ s marketing manager , said : “ The scale of this pandemic has weighed heavily on us all and as experienced manufacturers we were keen to step up .
So , when we were approached by Protecting Heroes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS protective face shields , we didn ’ t hesitate.
” The company was producing nearly 2,000 visors a day but saw that quantity multiplied tenfold when the product won level three EU certification .
The certification means the product meets the requirements of EU regulations on PPE , which is one of the highest standards available .
It has been stepping up production further by making a two-cavity tool , so hundreds of thousands of the shields can be made .
Clare Elvy added : “ Our ability to act quickly in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve been able to help but has also given us a new revenue stream for the future .
And because of our agility and quick mindedness to adapt our operation we haven ’ t needed to furlough any staff during the pandemic , putting three people to work full time on the project .
We ’ ve even had to employ two more part time staff on the project.
” BEC Group , on New Milton ’ s Gore Road Industrial Estate , has more than 41 years ’ experience in its @ @

BEC Group, a plastic injection moulding specialist, has shifted its resources to providing fully-certified personal protective equipment (PPE).
It is making what it calls the “world’s safest face visors”, which went through testing, tool and machine moulding stages before being manufactured at the New Milton business. They were made, assembled and delivered within eight weeks.
BEC Group said its team had “worked all hours” on the masks, which were seen on TV’s Good Morning Britain being dispatched to University College London.
The company normally produces plastic parts for a range of industries, making everything from tumble dryer and kettle filters to diesel emission reducing filters, smart meters, helmets, electronic casings and anti-flood bricks.
Clare Elvy, BEC’s marketing manager, said: “The scale of this pandemic has weighed heavily on us all and as experienced manufacturers we were keen to step up. So, when we were approached by Protecting Heroes to assist in large scale manufacture of NHS protective face shields, we didn’t hesitate.”
The company was producing nearly 2,000 visors a day but saw that quantity multiplied tenfold when the product won level three EU certification. The certification means the product meets the requirements of EU regulations on PPE, which is one of the highest standards available.
It has been stepping up production further by making a two-cavity tool, so hundreds of thousands of the shields can be made.
Clare Elvy added: “Our ability to act quickly in the crisis has not only meant we’ve been able to help but has also given us a new revenue stream for the future. And because of our agility and quick mindedness to adapt our operation we haven’t needed to furlough any staff during the pandemic, putting three people to work full time on the project. We’ve even had to employ two more part time staff on the project.”
BEC Group, on New Milton’s Gore Road Industrial Estate, has more than 41 years’ experience in its field.


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--LETTER - In coalition Lib Dems rejected House of Lords reform

I smiled at the letter from Lib-Dem councillor David Harrison .
We had a referendum in 2011 on the alternative @ @ @ @ @ , and the system was decisively rejected by the electorate .
From 2010 to 2015 @ @ @ @ @ with the Lib-Dems , which was decisively rejected by the electorate in 2015 .
In @ @ @ @ @ opposed and prevented reform of the House of Lords .
It seems that the Lib-Dems @ @ @ @ @ and they say one thing and do another .

We had a referendum in 2011 on the alternative vote system at Lib-Dem insistence, and the system was decisively rejected by the electorate.
From 2010 to 2015 there was a coalition government with the Lib-Dems, which was decisively rejected by the electorate in 2015.
In the coalition government the Lib-Dems opposed and prevented reform of the House of Lords.
It seems that the Lib-Dems wish to rerun lost battles and they say one thing and do another.
Alec Samuels
West End


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--LETTER - Hampshire council faces £109 million Covid losses

YOUR correspondent is correct to say the financial reserves of Hampshire are shown as £643million .
Hampshire residents can be relieved that the council ’ s finances have been in such prudent hands .
Other areas are not so fortunate and I fear we will see some councils face severe problems as a result of Covid19 I can say as former leader of the county that the strength of Hampshire ’ s finances is no thanks to the Lib Dem opposition .
Had we listened to Lib Dem councillors over the years those reserves would have long been exhausted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to read them in detail and the county finance director ’ s reports carefully explain only a limited proportion of reserves are not earmarked eg for essential purposes such as new schools .
In a report to county councillors the finance director revealed that total costs and losses faced by HCC due to Covid19 stood at £195 million whilst various Government grants , welcome as they were , amounted to just over £55 million The net unfounded losses after various other savings were estimated at £109 millon .
I have little doubt we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deal in part with an unprecedented situation and let us be thankful our county finances are sound but without doubt difficult decisions will need to be made .

Hampshire residents can be relieved that the council’s finances have been in such prudent hands.
Other areas are not so fortunate and I fear we will see some councils face severe problems as a result of Covid19
I can say as former leader of the county that the strength of Hampshire’s finances is no thanks to the Lib Dem opposition.
Had we listened to Lib Dem councillors over the years those reserves would have long been exhausted.
When reading accounts it is always important to read them in detail and the county finance director’s reports carefully explain only a limited proportion of reserves are not earmarked eg for essential purposes such as new schools.
In a report to county councillors the finance director revealed that total costs and losses faced by HCC due to Covid19 stood at £195 million whilst various Government grants, welcome as they were, amounted to just over £55 million
The net unfounded losses after various other savings were estimated at £109 millon.
This is a huge challenge.
I have little doubt we shall indeed have to call on reserves to deal in part with an unprecedented situation and let us be thankful our county finances are sound but without doubt difficult decisions will need to be made.
Roy Perry
County councillor Romsey Rural


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--LETTER - Remember NSPCC’s Childline service

AS A VOLUNTEER for the NSPCC ’ s Childline service I have seen first-hand how lockdown has impacted a generation of children .
Combined with the closure of schools and the lack of contact with their usual support networks , many already vulnerable children have been placed at increased risk of mental health difficulties .
Since lockdown began , Childline has delivered 21,827 counselling sessions for support with mental and emotional health issues .
It is vital that children know we are still here for them and that Childline can continue to provide a vital lifeline for them .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ readers to remember us in their will this Remember a Charity Week ( 7 - 13 September ) .
Leaving a legacy can have an incredible impact – the amount we receive through legacies is the equivalent of the cost of running our Speak out Stay safe programme and Childline combined for a year .
As we move from crisis to recovery , we need your help to continue to support children during this challenging , ever-changing situation and beyond .
To find out how you can help please call 020 7825 2505 @ @ @

Combined with the closure of schools and the lack of contact with their usual support networks, many already vulnerable children have been placed at increased risk of mental health difficulties.
Since lockdown began, Childline has delivered 21,827 counselling sessions for support with mental and emotional health issues. It is vital that children know we are still here for them and that Childline can continue to provide a vital lifeline for them.
This is why I am appealing to your readers to remember us in their will this Remember a Charity Week (7 - 13 September). Leaving a legacy can have an incredible impact – the amount we receive through legacies is the equivalent of the cost of running our Speak out Stay safe programme and Childline combined for a year.
As we move from crisis to recovery, we need your help to continue to support children during this challenging, ever-changing situation and beyond.
To find out how you can help please call 020 7825 2505 or visit nspcc.org.uk/guardian
Michelle Bigwood
Volunteer at the NSPCC’s Childline


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--LETTER - Did Southampton City Council get the memo?

Been reading a report today by the Transport Minister Grant Shapps , stating the government ’ s spending £27 billion @ @ @ @ @ reducing congestion , pollution and journey times , I think Southampton City Council were out @ @ @ @ @ memo was sent , they seem to be doing the complete opposite

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


thedailyecho--2020-08-27--LETTER - Dreaming of a U turn on The Avenue cycle lanes

AN apology that I am sure I read somewhere ... On behalf of Southampton City Council please accept our sincere apologies for the disruption that our well intentioned installation of cycle lanes in the Avenue has brought .
We did not realise how few cyclists would actually take advantage of the facility .
Despite our extensive research covering a period of in excess of one week , we did not realise that the no right turn from The Avenue into Burgess Road would cause a tailback causing problems for drivers turning north out of Highfield Lane .
Nor did we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a single lane would cause problems in all directions at the Winchester Road roundabout and we are now concerned that when daily traffic to the port area when the cruise ships return and Saints recommence playing at St Marys that this could be exacerbated .
We would like to reassure residents and visitors that our far reaching vision will also extend , when more traffic enters and leaves the city centre , to ensuring that drivers wishing to leave the city northbound will be able to use Bedford Place as well as just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Having considered all aspects carefully and noting the concerns for a variety of reasons , we are pleased to confirm that the road system will be returned to its former version .
Our target date for this change is 1st April next year .
• Council reveal that Bassett Avenue cycle lane to be removed Anyway , I was certain of the validity of this , then I awoke from my slumbers .

Dear Avenue road users,
On behalf of Southampton City Council please accept our sincere apologies for the disruption that our well intentioned installation of cycle lanes in the Avenue has brought. We did not realise how few cyclists would actually take advantage of the facility. Despite our extensive research covering a period of in excess of one week, we did not realise that the no right turn from The Avenue into Burgess Road would cause a tailback causing problems for drivers turning north out of Highfield Lane.
Nor did we realise that restricting Upper Bassett Avenue to a single lane would cause problems in all directions at the Winchester Road roundabout and we are now concerned that when daily traffic to the port area when the cruise ships return and Saints recommence playing at St Marys that this could be exacerbated.
We would like to reassure residents and visitors that our far reaching vision will also extend, when more traffic enters and leaves the city centre, to ensuring that drivers wishing to leave the city northbound will be able to use Bedford Place as well as just the lower reaches of the Avenue.
Having considered all aspects carefully and noting the concerns for a variety of reasons, we are pleased to confirm that the road system will be returned to its former version.
Our target date for this change is 1st April next year.
Anyway, I was certain of the validity of this, then I awoke from my slumbers.
Ian Ritchie
Chandler's Ford


thedailyecho--2020-08-26--M27 to be closed for a full weekend for new Fareham bridge installation

THE M27 will be closed to allow works to install a new bridge over the motorway .
As part of the scheme to upgrade the 15-mile stretch of road , Highways England will be installing the new North Fareham footbridge , which will be situated between junctions 10 and 11 of the M27 .
The bridge installation will result in the full closure of the M27 between junction 9 and junction 11 from Friday , September 4 at 9pm to Monday , September 7 , at 6am .
The bridge installation is to take place over night due to less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close the motorway with reduced impact for the travelling public .
In a statement on their website , Highways England said : `` We apologise in advance for any disturbance caused , as the bridge installation may be noisy at times , and we have written to local residents to inform them of this installation in advance .
`` The closure dates may be subject to change owing to operational requirements or adverse weather conditions .
Diversion routes will be clearly signposted .
`` We would advise road users to plan their journeys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ website or by following our Twitter feed : @ HighwaysSEAST . ''
It comes after the M27 was closed for two days between junction 3 and 4 in January for a bridge to be demolished .
Motorists faced a 55-mile diversion as part of the final phase of the £19m scheme to replace the Romsey Road bridge following previous closures last year .

As part of the scheme to upgrade the 15-mile stretch of road, Highways England will be installing the new North Fareham footbridge, which will be situated between junctions 10 and 11 of the M27.
The bridge installation will result in the full closure of the M27 between junction 9 and junction 11 from Friday, September 4 at 9pm to Monday, September 7, at 6am.
The bridge installation is to take place over night due to less traffic, which will allow workers to close the motorway with reduced impact for the travelling public.
In a statement on their website, Highways England said: "We apologise in advance for any disturbance caused, as the bridge installation may be noisy at times, and we have written to local residents to inform them of this installation in advance.
"The closure dates may be subject to change owing to operational requirements or adverse weather conditions. Diversion routes will be clearly signposted.
Stunning time-lapse video shows Romsey Road bridge demolition and replacement
"We would advise road users to plan their journeys in advance by visiting the Traffic England website or by following our Twitter feed: @HighwaysSEAST."
It comes after the M27 was closed for two days between junction 3 and 4 in January for a bridge to be demolished.
Motorists faced a 55-mile diversion as part of the final phase of the £19m scheme to replace the Romsey Road bridge following previous closures last year.


thedailyecho--2020-08-26--Covid-19 vaccine trials may begin in Southampton this autumn

A CORONAVIRUS vaccine candidate developed by scientists in Southampton could begin clinical trials in the city in the autumn .
A £1.9 million funding boost from Innovate UK , the Government ’ s innovation agency , has provided support for a collaboration between Cambridge spin-out company DIOSynVax , the University of Cambridge and the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust .
The cash will allow the team to take the vaccine candidate to clinical trial .
This will take place at the National Institute for Health Research ( NIHR ) Southampton Clinical Research Facility and could begin as early as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pupils will have to wear face masks Professor Jonathan Heeney , founder of DIOSynVax , said : “ Our approach involves 3D computer modelling of the SARS-CoV-2 [ the virus that causes Covid-19 ] structure .
“ It uses information on the virus itself as well as its relatives – SARS , MERS and other coronaviruses carried by animals that threaten to ‘ spill over ’ to humans again to cause future human epidemics .
• Five more cases of coronavirus diagnosed in Southampton in 24-hours “ We ’ re looking for chinks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus that we can use to construct the vaccine to direct the immune response in the right direction .
“ Ultimately we aim to make a vaccine that will not only protect from SARS-CoV-2 , but also other related coronaviruses that may spill over from animals to humans . ''
“ Our strategy includes targeting those domains of the virus ’ s structure that are absolutely critical for docking with a cell , while avoiding the parts that could make things worse .
“ What we end up with is a mimic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minus those non-essential elements that could trigger a bad immune response.
” As reported , the research team has used banks of genetic sequences of all known coronaviruses to develop their vaccine candidate called DIOS-CoVax2 .
They have developed libraries of computer-generated antigen structures that can train the immune system to target key regions of the virus and system to make good anti-viral responses .
These immune responses include neutralising antibodies , which block virus infection , and T-cells , which remove virus-infected cells .

A £1.9 million funding boost from Innovate UK, the Government’s innovation agency, has provided support for a collaboration between Cambridge spin-out company DIOSynVax, the University of Cambridge and the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust.
The cash will allow the team to take the vaccine candidate to clinical trial.
This will take place at the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Southampton Clinical Research Facility and could begin as early as autumn this year.
Professor Jonathan Heeney, founder of DIOSynVax, said: “Our approach involves 3D computer modelling of the SARS-CoV-2 [the virus that causes Covid-19] structure.
“It uses information on the virus itself as well as its relatives – SARS, MERS and other coronaviruses carried by animals that threaten to ‘spill over’ to humans again to cause future human epidemics.
“We’re looking for chinks in its armour, crucial pieces of the virus that we can use to construct the vaccine to direct the immune response in the right direction.
“Ultimately we aim to make a vaccine that will not only protect from SARS-CoV-2, but also other related coronaviruses that may spill over from animals to humans."
“Our strategy includes targeting those domains of the virus’s structure that are absolutely critical for docking with a cell, while avoiding the parts that could make things worse.
“What we end up with is a mimic, a synthetic part of the virus minus those non-essential elements that could trigger a bad immune response.”
As reported, the research team has used banks of genetic sequences of all known coronaviruses to develop their vaccine candidate called DIOS-CoVax2.
They have developed libraries of computer-generated antigen structures that can train the immune system to target key regions of the virus and system to make good anti-viral responses. These immune responses include neutralising antibodies, which block virus infection, and T-cells, which remove virus-infected cells.


thedailyecho--2020-08-26--Tributes paid to former Daily Echo business editor Mike Ford

TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Daily Echo journalist who spent more than 40 years on the paper .
Mike Ford , who has died aged 81 , was the business editor when he retired in 2004 and was widely regarded as one of the best informed commentators on the south 's economy .
He gained an intimate insight into the workings of politics , commerce and industry in the Southampton area .
In the months leading up to his retirement he stepped back from day-to-day involvement with the workings of the business community , allowing him and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughters in Italy and France .
But he retained his association with the Daily Echo and associated publications within the Newsquest Media group .
Mike , who lived at Slab Lane in West Wellow , joined the paper at Basingstoke and soon joined the head office in Southampton , where he worked on the paper 's newsdesk .
Later he specialised in news about industry and commerce and also became the paper 's motoring correspondent .
Mike and his wife Jill were married in 1975 .
He also leaves a daughter , Michelle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first marriage , Rob and Claire .
For 17 years he edited a sailing magazine for the Royal Southampton Yacht Club and was also treasurer and webmaster at the Yachting Journalists ' Association ( YJA ) .
In a statement the yacht club said : `` It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of Mike Ford .
`` For many years Mike lent his considerable skills to editing many of our various publications , not least The Yachter magazine .
He would often be found photographing and documenting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on social media the YJA added : `` Mike managed the membership aspects for many years and was a YJA member for even longer .
His knowledge , experience and friendship will be a great loss to all of us .
`` We have expressed our sincerest condolences to his wife Jill and daughter Michelle on behalf of all YJA members around the world .
`` We are sure you will join our chairman Cliff Webb and the members of the YJA Committee in wishing to remember Mike ’ s life and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many long years . ''
Mike and his wife Gillian were married in 1975 .
He also leaves a daughter , Michelle , and two children from Gillian 's first marriage , Rob and Claire .

Mike Ford, who has died aged 81, was the business editor when he retired in 2004 and was widely regarded as one of the best informed commentators on the south's economy.
He gained an intimate insight into the workings of politics, commerce and industry in the Southampton area.
In the months leading up to his retirement he stepped back from day-to-day involvement with the workings of the business community, allowing him and his wife Gillian to spend time with their daughters in Italy and France.
But he retained his association with the Daily Echo and associated publications within the Newsquest Media group.
Mike, who lived at Slab Lane in West Wellow, joined the paper at Basingstoke and soon joined the head office in Southampton, where he worked on the paper's newsdesk. Later he specialised in news about industry and commerce and also became the paper's motoring correspondent.
Mike and his wife Jill were married in 1975. He also leaves a daughter, Michelle, and two children from Jill's first marriage, Rob and Claire.
For 17 years he edited a sailing magazine for the Royal Southampton Yacht Club and was also treasurer and webmaster at the Yachting Journalists' Association (YJA).
In a statement the yacht club said: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of Mike Ford.
"For many years Mike lent his considerable skills to editing many of our various publications, not least The Yachter magazine. He would often be found photographing and documenting club events for publication."
Posting on social media the YJA added: "Mike managed the membership aspects for many years and was a YJA member for even longer. His knowledge, experience and friendship will be a great loss to all of us.
"We have expressed our sincerest condolences to his wife Jill and daughter Michelle on behalf of all YJA members around the world.
"We are sure you will join our chairman Cliff Webb and the members of the YJA Committee in wishing to remember Mike’s life and his tremendous contribution to the YJA for so many long years."
Mike and his wife Gillian were married in 1975. He also leaves a daughter, Michelle, and two children from Gillian's first marriage, Rob and Claire.


thedailyecho--2020-08-26--Christopher Scott Bryan jailed at Southampton Crown Court

A man who targeted `` vulnerable people '' during a string of offences has been jailed for ten years .
Christopher Scott Bryan carried out burglaries , robberies and frauds across Southampton and Portsmouth between January 2 and April 24 this year .
The 45-year-old even targeted two extremely vulnerable people during separate residential burglaries .
• `` Professional '' burglar who broke through supermarket roof is jailed Bryan , of no fixed address , was jailed for ten years at Southampton Crown Court on Tuesday .
He was found guilty of four counts of burglary , three counts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one count of attempted robbery .
Detective Sergeant , Simon Price , said : `` With the support of our Op Hawk team , an offender who acted in a cowardly manner by targeting vulnerable victims , has been punished at court and handed a substantial custodial sentence .
`` We are pleased to see that he has been given a lengthy sentence which reflects the severity of his crimes , including the two residential burglaries of vulnerable people .
“ This sentence has not only safeguarded the victims of his crimes from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local communities as a whole can feel safer going about their day-to-day business .
”

Christopher Scott Bryan carried out burglaries, robberies and frauds across Southampton and Portsmouth between January 2 and April 24 this year.
The 45-year-old even targeted two extremely vulnerable people during separate residential burglaries.
Bryan, of no fixed address, was jailed for ten years at Southampton Crown Court on Tuesday. He was found guilty of four counts of burglary, three counts of fraud, one count of theft and one count of attempted robbery.
Detective Sergeant, Simon Price, said: "With the support of our Op Hawk team, an offender who acted in a cowardly manner by targeting vulnerable victims, has been punished at court and handed a substantial custodial sentence.
"We are pleased to see that he has been given a lengthy sentence which reflects the severity of his crimes, including the two residential burglaries of vulnerable people.
“This sentence has not only safeguarded the victims of his crimes from becoming repeat victims but also means that local communities as a whole can feel safer going about their day-to-day business.”


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Winchester city centre hit by flash floods

TORRENTIAL raid brought flooding to Winchester city centre and chaos to Hampshire 's rail network .
The shopping centre was under feet of water while the main rail route from London to the south coast was blocked by a landslip .
Roads were blocked around Winchester and emergency services were out unblocking drains .
It comes after torrential rain hit the county last night .
And there are warnings there could be more heavy rain today .
Police urged motorists to be patient as water blocked roads .
Speaking to the Daily Echo , local Sam Buller said the water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guildhall .
He said : “ It was all the way up to my knees .
I walked in it and it was a very strong current .
You can see all the silt and everything that ’ s come down from the main road.
” One Winchester resident , who did not wish to be named , said : “ It filled about 60 per cent of the high street.
” While another person said : “ It ’ s what happens when the council don ’ t clear the drains ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another local who said it was down to “ under investment ” .
On Twitter Winchester Cops said : `` Lots of flooding around the City at this time .
`` Many roads are blocked or slow so please be patient .
`` HCC are already out unblocking drains .
`` Please consider all pedestrians on footpaths . ''
Also it was reported that there were major delays on bus services coming in and out of the city 's bus station because of flooding to the Broadway .
There was also flooding at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Stanmore area .
Winchester Services on the southbound M3 was also closed due to flooding .
Meanwhile , a landslip near Micheldever caused by the rain brought chaos to commuters .
A number of South Western Railway services between London Waterloo and the south coast have been cancelled after the landslip , which came just after heavy showers struck the region .
Replacement bus services are operating between Basingstoke and Southampton , whilst CrossCountry services are being diverted via Salisbury .
Other services from the New Forest and Dorset are being diverted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption was expected to continue `` until the end of the day '' .
In a statement SWR said : `` We have been informed of a landslip between Micheldever and Winchester .
This means that all lines are currently blocked between these stations .
`` Until further notice , the following alterations may apply : `` Services between London Waterloo and Bournemouth may be diverted via Havant .
`` We have also requested replacement buses between Basingstoke and Southampton Central .
Once these are confirmed , start times and locations will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point .
`` We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey . ''

The shopping centre was under feet of water while the main rail route from London to the south coast was blocked by a landslip.
Roads were blocked around Winchester and emergency services were out unblocking drains.
It comes after torrential rain hit the county last night.
Winchester High Street has opened a new all weather pool to attract visitors to the city pic.twitter.com/fQrPl8pxNG — lawrence chiari (@lolchiari) August 27, 2020
And there are warnings there could be more heavy rain today.
Police urged motorists to be patient as water blocked roads.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, local Sam Buller said the water went all the way up to The Guildhall.
He said: “It was all the way up to my knees. I walked in it and it was a very strong current. You can see all the silt and everything that’s come down from the main road.”
One Winchester resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “It filled about 60 per cent of the high street.”
While another person said: “It’s what happens when the council don’t clear the drains” - a comment which was backed by another local who said it was down to “under investment”.
On Twitter Winchester Cops said: "Lots of flooding around the City at this time.
"Many roads are blocked or slow so please be patient.
"HCC are already out unblocking drains.
"Please consider all pedestrians on footpaths."
Also it was reported that there were major delays on bus services coming in and out of the city's bus station because of flooding to the Broadway.
There was also flooding at Airlie Corner and Christchurch Road in Winchester's Stanmore area.
Winchester Services on the southbound M3 was also closed due to flooding.
Meanwhile, a landslip near Micheldever caused by the rain brought chaos to commuters.
A number of South Western Railway services between London Waterloo and the south coast have been cancelled after the landslip, which came just after heavy showers struck the region.
Replacement bus services are operating between Basingstoke and Southampton, whilst CrossCountry services are being diverted via Salisbury.
Other services from the New Forest and Dorset are being diverted via Havant.
The company warned that disruption was expected to continue "until the end of the day".
In a statement SWR said: "We have been informed of a landslip between Micheldever and Winchester. This means that all lines are currently blocked between these stations.
"Until further notice, the following alterations may apply: "Services between London Waterloo and Bournemouth may be diverted via Havant.
"We have also requested replacement buses between Basingstoke and Southampton Central. Once these are confirmed, start times and locations will be updated/ "For further information or onward travel advice please speak to a member of staff or use a station help point.
"We are very sorry for any delay that this may cause to your journey."


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--PICTURES: Winchester hit by flash flooding

Relentless heavy rain has caused flooding in Winchester 's city centre and it 's surrounding suburbs .
Benches , bins @ @ @ @ @ partially submerged in the water , which took hold of the city yesterday .
Winchester @ @ @ @ @ new all weather pool to attract visitors to the city pic.twitter.com/fQrPl8pxNG — lawrence chiari ( @ @ @ @ @ , 2020 This caused travel misery for many as roads were blocked .
The emergency @ @ @ @ @ drains .
Send us you pictures - Winchester hit by flash floods Do you have @ @ @ @ @ in Winchester yesterday ?
Add your contribution now By uploading a contribution , for use @ @ @ @ @ you accept our contributor terms .
You will either own or have permission to use @ @ @ @

Benches, bins, and even cars were partially submerged in the water, which took hold of the city yesterday.
Winchester High Street has opened a new all weather pool to attract visitors to the city pic.twitter.com/fQrPl8pxNG — lawrence chiari (@lolchiari) August 27, 2020
This caused travel misery for many as roads were blocked.
The emergency services were even out unblocking drains.


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Paultons Park make changes to season tickets after no-shows

Families and visitors to Paultons Park have hit out at changes to season tickets .
Paultons Park posted a statement on their Facebook page yesterday informing loyal visitors they would be introducing a £1 charge per guest when booking spaces to visit the park following claims of 'misuse ' .
A spokesperson for the family theme park in Romsey , said they were disappointed to see `` many Season Ticket Holders misusing the pre-booking system and not using our freely available cancellation portal '' .
They have been seeing a no-show rate of more than 30 % , with some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only visiting four or five times .
The £1 fee will be donated to our charity partner , Southampton Children ’ s Hospital Charity .
It comes into force today .
The non-refundable charge will be required for each Season Ticket Holder attending .
And the spokesperson added : `` If we continue to see unfair use of the system after this change we will limit season ticket holders to one booking per week , again this is something which we do not want to do and we hope the changes being made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We apologise to season ticket holders who have been responsibly using the system , however we have been forced to find a way to curb the significant amount of over booking we are seeing – and provide the fairest system for everyone to use , so you can all enjoy a day out to Paultons . ''
The post has attracted more than 1,300 comments on their Facebook page .
One person , who contacted the Daily Echo said : `` Paultons Park now think it ’ s acceptable to start charging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for their season tickets a £1 charge per visit per person on top of what they have already paid .
`` They are also threatening to limit season ticket holders how many times they can visit even though they ’ ve paid for a ticket that gives them the freedom to go as many times as they wish .
`` And above all this today they have decided to increase their ticket prices from £140 to £169 the second increase this year .
Shame on Paultons . ''
Another person commenting on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappointing .
We have only been once since you ’ ve opened .
As a nurse and working shifts and throughout lockdown we have been looking forward to some family time but as I work shifts I ’ ve been unable to log on countless times on a Friday to see what is available .
`` And by the time I get to have a look nothing is available .
You have treated season ticket holders really badly .
I feel the best way to resolve this is to charge the repeat offenders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most loyal customers .
One disappointed customer said : `` I feel sad .
I always cancel my tickets and update the Facebook group so that others can use my ticket .
I am trying hard to be positive Paultons but with a huge increase in season ticket prices my positivity is declining . ''

Paultons Park posted a statement on their Facebook page yesterday informing loyal visitors they would be introducing a £1 charge per guest when booking spaces to visit the park following claims of 'misuse'.
A spokesperson for the family theme park in Romsey, said they were disappointed to see "many Season Ticket Holders misusing the pre-booking system and not using our freely available cancellation portal".
They have been seeing a no-show rate of more than 30%, with some people pre-booking more than 30 tickets and only visiting four or five times.
The £1 fee will be donated to our charity partner, Southampton Children’s Hospital Charity.
It comes into force today.
The non-refundable charge will be required for each Season Ticket Holder attending.
And the spokesperson added: "If we continue to see unfair use of the system after this change we will limit season ticket holders to one booking per week, again this is something which we do not want to do and we hope the changes being made at this time will be enough.
"We apologise to season ticket holders who have been responsibly using the system, however we have been forced to find a way to curb the significant amount of over booking we are seeing – and provide the fairest system for everyone to use, so you can all enjoy a day out to Paultons."
The post has attracted more than 1,300 comments on their Facebook page.
One person, who contacted the Daily Echo said: "Paultons Park now think it’s acceptable to start charging season ticket holders who have already paid for their season tickets a £1 charge per visit per person on top of what they have already paid.
"They are also threatening to limit season ticket holders how many times they can visit even though they’ve paid for a ticket that gives them the freedom to go as many times as they wish.
"And above all this today they have decided to increase their ticket prices from £140 to £169 the second increase this year. Shame on Paultons."
Another person commenting on their page said: "This is hugely disappointing. We have only been once since you’ve opened. As a nurse and working shifts and throughout lockdown we have been looking forward to some family time but as I work shifts I’ve been unable to log on countless times on a Friday to see what is available.
"And by the time I get to have a look nothing is available. You have treated season ticket holders really badly. I feel the best way to resolve this is to charge the repeat offenders, not punish everyone and alienate your most loyal customers.
"Our season tickets run out next month and as a result of this we are not going to renew."
One disappointed customer said: "I feel sad. I always cancel my tickets and update the Facebook group so that others can use my ticket. I am trying hard to be positive Paultons but with a huge increase in season ticket prices my positivity is declining."


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Cyclist suffers serious injuries following car crash in Beaulieu

A CYCLIST has been left with serious injuries after crashing with a car .
The cyclist was rushed to hospital @ @ @ @ @ a cut to the knee .
It followed an incident on the B3054 in Beaulieu @ @ @ @ @ involving the cyclist and a car .
Police have now launched an investigation and are @ @ @ @ @ them .
A police spokesperson said : `` Enquiries into how the accident occurred are @ @ @ @ @ re also turning to the public for help .
`` Were you in the area @ @ @ @ @ you see what happened ?
Or maybe you have dashcam footage available .
`` Anyone @ @ @ @ @ call us on 101 , quoting 4200328630 .
`` Alternatively , you can phone Crimestoppers @ @ @ @ @ . ''

The cyclist was rushed to hospital after suffered serious injuries including a cut to the knee.
It followed an incident on the B3054 in Beaulieu at around 4.30pm on Wednesday involving the cyclist and a car.
Police have now launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses to help them.
A police spokesperson said: "Enquiries into how the accident occurred are ongoing, but we’re also turning to the public for help.
"Were you in the area at the time? Did you see what happened? Or maybe you have dashcam footage available.
"Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101, quoting 4200328630.
"Alternatively, you can phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Fareham car park charges could pay for lost council funding

Extra car park charges in Fareham could be introduced to help pay for lost income from Coronavirus .
Coastal car parks in Fareham could see charges introduced as a way to help pay for lost revenue during Coronavirus .
A report is set to go to Fareham Borough Council to recommend introducing charges to coastal car parks in Swanwick , Warsash , Meon Shore , Hill Head and Portchester .
The report on September 7 could bring Fareham in line with all other local authorities along the south coast , who charge for parking .
One recommendation is for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10am and 6pm .
Other options to charge by the hour will also be considered .
The new charges could make up to £900,000 for the council each year which could offset council losses made during the pandemic .
Executive Member for Health and Public Protection , Cllr Trevor Cartwright , said : `` For some time we have been the only local authority on the south coast of England that has not charged people to use our coastal car parks , but now we must .
`` I am pleased that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day-time parking charges in Fareham Town Centre which have now been frozen for over a decade and I hope this will continue to encourage people back into the centre for shopping and leisure . ''

Coastal car parks in Fareham could see charges introduced as a way to help pay for lost revenue during Coronavirus.
A report is set to go to Fareham Borough Council to recommend introducing charges to coastal car parks in Swanwick, Warsash, Meon Shore, Hill Head and Portchester.
The report on September 7 could bring Fareham in line with all other local authorities along the south coast, who charge for parking.
One recommendation is for a £3 charge for a four-hour stay between 10am and 6pm. Other options to charge by the hour will also be considered.
The new charges could make up to £900,000 for the council each year which could offset council losses made during the pandemic.
Executive Member for Health and Public Protection, Cllr Trevor Cartwright, said: "For some time we have been the only local authority on the south coast of England that has not charged people to use our coastal car parks, but now we must.
"I am pleased that we are able to continue to freeze the day-time parking charges in Fareham Town Centre which have now been frozen for over a decade and I hope this will continue to encourage people back into the centre for shopping and leisure."


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Fire rips through car following Lymington accident

A FIRE has ripped through a car following a traffic accident in a New Forest town .
Firefighters rushed to @ @ @ @ @ reports of a crash .
On arrival , they found a car `` well alight @ @ @ @ @ Car fire on M27 blocks road as flames rip through vehicle A crew from Lymington @ @ @ @ @ the scene after receiving an emergency call at around 2.15am this morning .
No other @ @ @ @ @ one was trapped , according to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services .
The stop message @ @ @ @

Firefighters rushed to Southampton Road in Lymington to reports of a crash.
On arrival, they found a car "well alight".
A crew from Lymington Fire Station was sent to the scene after receiving an emergency call at around 2.15am this morning.
No other vehicles were involved and no one was trapped, according to Hampshire Fire and Rescue Services.
The stop message came in at 2.35am
More to follow...


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Red Funnel ferry Red Osprey withdrawn from service

A RED FUNNEL ferry has been withdrawn from service following an inspection , it has been revealed .
The company said that defects had been found on the Red Osprey vessel and it has been taken out of service .
The move will cause travel disruption for those using the ferry over the Bank Holiday weekend .
Earlier this month the company announced that it was making 40 redundancies following a 'prolonged downturn ' over the summer .
It comes as capactiy of the ferries from Southampton to East Cowes has been slashed due to social distancing rules .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 jobs The statement said that following a routine inspection aboard Red Osprey , defects have been noted on the vessel ’ s aft main engine and the Voith propulsion system .
While the two defects are not serious enough to affect the safe operation of the vessel , it is important that immediate repairs are undertaken to prevent greater damage , it added .
Accordingly , said the company , the vessel has been withdrawn from service , and repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the weekend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is expected to cause disruption to Red Funnel ’ s timetable into the weekend .
Leanna Lakes , operations director , Red Funnel said : “ We truly apologise for the anticipated disruption to our vehicle ferry service between Southampton and East Cowes , especially as we head into the bank holiday weekend .
`` Our teams shore-side and on-board will be working extremely hard and doing their very best to help passengers get to their destination as quickly and as safely as possible .
`` We recognise that the interruption could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially for those with holiday plans and for this , we sincerely apologise .
We will keep customers informed of our progress and hope to resolve this matter as quickly as possible.
” All affected passengers with existing bookings will be contacted by Red Funnel and receive the latest information about revised expected departure times , the company said in a statement .
Any customers wishing to amend their booking between now and the end of the bank holiday weekend can do so free of charge , with no additional amendment fees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service in 1994 and was given a reft ten years later .
Then in 2015 Red Funnel invested £2.2m in giving the vessel , whichnormally has a capacity of 895 passengers and 220 cars , another refit .
Red Funnel said customers wishing to cancel their booking can also do so and receive a full refund , with no added cancellation fees .
The statent added that customers without a booking are advised not to arrive to the vehicle ferry terminals .
This advice applies to all passengers travelling with private vehicles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as pushbikes .
Red Funnel has taken measures to maximise space for private vehicle traffic aboard its other two vehicle ferries , Red Falcon and Red Eagle .
Red Kestrel , Red Funnel ’ s ‘ freight only ’ ferry will be brought in to complete additional ( previously unscheduled ) trips , freeing more vehicle deck space for non-freight vehicle traffic .
With the current passenger capacity of the vehicle ferries capped at 500 , in response to Covid-19 social distancing measures , the company is also redirecting all foot passenger traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is currently running to timetable .
The company will also be arranging transport to help streamline foot passenger movement between East and West Cowes .
Red Funnel customer service teams will be on hand to assist customers with amendments , refunds and queries .
For all the latest on the roads , rails and ferries visit Hampshire Travel News

The company said that defects had been found on the Red Osprey vessel and it has been taken out of service.
The move will cause travel disruption for those using the ferry over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Earlier this month the company announced that it was making 40 redundancies following a 'prolonged downturn' over the summer.
It comes as capactiy of the ferries from Southampton to East Cowes has been slashed due to social distancing rules.
The statement said that following a routine inspection aboard Red Osprey, defects have been noted on the vessel’s aft main engine and the Voith propulsion system.
While the two defects are not serious enough to affect the safe operation of the vessel, it is important that immediate repairs are undertaken to prevent greater damage, it added.
Accordingly, said the company, the vessel has been withdrawn from service, and repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the weekend.
The withdrawal of Red Osprey from service is expected to cause disruption to Red Funnel’s timetable into the weekend.
Leanna Lakes, operations director, Red Funnel said: “We truly apologise for the anticipated disruption to our vehicle ferry service between Southampton and East Cowes, especially as we head into the bank holiday weekend.
"Our teams shore-side and on-board will be working extremely hard and doing their very best to help passengers get to their destination as quickly and as safely as possible.
"We recognise that the interruption could not have come at a worse time, especially for those with holiday plans and for this, we sincerely apologise. We will keep customers informed of our progress and hope to resolve this matter as quickly as possible.”
All affected passengers with existing bookings will be contacted by Red Funnel and receive the latest information about revised expected departure times, the company said in a statement.
Any customers wishing to amend their booking between now and the end of the bank holiday weekend can do so free of charge, with no additional amendment fees, it added.
Red Osprey first entered service in 1994 and was given a reft ten years later.
Then in 2015 Red Funnel invested £2.2m in giving the vessel, whichnormally has a capacity of 895 passengers and 220 cars, another refit.
Red Funnel said customers wishing to cancel their booking can also do so and receive a full refund, with no added cancellation fees.
The statent added that customers without a booking are advised not to arrive to the vehicle ferry terminals. This advice applies to all passengers travelling with private vehicles, including motorcycles, scooters, as well as pushbikes.
Red Funnel has taken measures to maximise space for private vehicle traffic aboard its other two vehicle ferries, Red Falcon and Red Eagle. Red Kestrel, Red Funnel’s ‘freight only’ ferry will be brought in to complete additional (previously unscheduled) trips, freeing more vehicle deck space for non-freight vehicle traffic.
With the current passenger capacity of the vehicle ferries capped at 500, in response to Covid-19 social distancing measures, the company is also redirecting all foot passenger traffic to its Hi-Speed Red Jet service, which is currently running to timetable.
The company will also be arranging transport to help streamline foot passenger movement between East and West Cowes.
Red Funnel customer service teams will be on hand to assist customers with amendments, refunds and queries.
For all the latest on the roads, rails and ferries visit Hampshire Travel News


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Robberies in Bitterne Park and Swaythling in Southampton

A TEENAGER has been arrested following a series of armed robberies across Southampton .
Police say that the 17-year-old is @ @ @ @ @ the knifepoint robberies in the city 's Swaythling and Bitterne Park areas .
The teenager @ @ @ @ @ has been questioned over the crimes by detectivies at Southampton central police station .
Officers @ @ @ @ @ for anyone else in connection with the robberies .
On twitter Southampton Central Police said @ @ @ @ @ a 17-year-old boy from Southampton in relation to a number of knifepoint robberies that took @ @ @ @ @ Bitterne Park areas of Southampton earlier this evening ( 27 August ) .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ at this time .
`` Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with @ @ @ @

Police say that the 17-year-old is being held in connection with the knifepoint robberies in the city's Swaythling and Bitterne Park areas.
The teenager was arrested last night and has been questioned over the crimes by detectivies at Southampton central police station.
Officers say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the robberies.
On twitter Southampton Central Police said: "Officers have arrested a 17-year-old boy from Southampton in relation to a number of knifepoint robberies that took place in the Swaythling and Bitterne Park areas of Southampton earlier this evening (27 August).
"The 17-year-old remains in police custody at this time.
"Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with these offences."
More to follow...


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Calls to remove bus lane on Bitterne Road West

OPPOSITION bosses have renewed calls to remove a temporary bus lane on a major Southampton road .
Cllr Dan Fitzhenry is urging Southampton City Council to remove the temporary bus lane on Bitterne Road West before schools reopen next month .
The news comes as earlier this week civic chiefs announced they will remove the controversial pop-up cycle lane on Bassett Avenue between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Road roundabout .
The leader of the opposition at the city council is now urging the authority to also remove the bus lane on Bitterne Road West .
Cllr Fitzhenry said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traffic chaos .
I am worried that there will be considerable congestion across the city if we don ’ t remove these bus lanes before schools go back .
`` The traffic has been considerable already.
” As reported , he had previously called on the council to remove the bus lane on Bitterne Road West .
But he said that when schools will reopen next week traffic and pollution levels could also increase .
Cllr Fitzhenry said the money spent on the bus lane on Bitterne Road West could have been spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sensible conversation about how we can create a sensible transport plan for the city , ” he added .
As previously reported , the measures are part of the council ’ s Green Transport Recovery Plan ( GTRP ) .
Cllr Steve Leggett , cabinet member for green city and place , said : “ The council was asked to put measures in place to allow for environmentally friendly travel , by means of cycling , walking and public transport .
`` During the time since these temporary road alterations have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and where the data shows significant delays or increase in traffic , decisions have then been made to remove them , as was the case with the cycle lane in Bassett Avenue .
`` If the data demonstrates problems with the changes to Bitterne Road West , then a decision will be made on whether to remove the bus lanes or not .
`` Demands from opposition members without the data to back them up are not appropriate reasons to make changes to any part of the GTRP.
” As reported , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ called back in ” in July to be scrutinised further .
It came as opposition bosses and a number of residents raised concerns over some of the proposals .

Cllr Dan Fitzhenry is urging Southampton City Council to remove the temporary bus lane on Bitterne Road West before schools reopen next month.
The news comes as earlier this week civic chiefs announced they will remove the controversial pop-up cycle lane on Bassett Avenue between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Road roundabout.
The leader of the opposition at the city council is now urging the authority to also remove the bus lane on Bitterne Road West.
Cllr Fitzhenry said: “There’s the potential for traffic chaos. I am worried that there will be considerable congestion across the city if we don’t remove these bus lanes before schools go back.
"The traffic has been considerable already.”
As reported, he had previously called on the council to remove the bus lane on Bitterne Road West.
But he said that when schools will reopen next week traffic and pollution levels could also increase.
Cllr Fitzhenry said the money spent on the bus lane on Bitterne Road West could have been spent differently.
“Let’s have a sensible conversation about how we can create a sensible transport plan for the city,” he added.
As previously reported, the measures are part of the council’s Green Transport Recovery Plan (GTRP).
Cllr Steve Leggett, cabinet member for green city and place, said: “The council was asked to put measures in place to allow for environmentally friendly travel, by means of cycling, walking and public transport.
"During the time since these temporary road alterations have been in place, traffic has been monitored, and where the data shows significant delays or increase in traffic, decisions have then been made to remove them, as was the case with the cycle lane in Bassett Avenue.
"If the data demonstrates problems with the changes to Bitterne Road West, then a decision will be made on whether to remove the bus lanes or not.
"Demands from opposition members without the data to back them up are not appropriate reasons to make changes to any part of the GTRP.”
As reported, the council’s transport plan was “called back in” in July to be scrutinised further.
It came as opposition bosses and a number of residents raised concerns over some of the proposals.


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Victim left with PTSD after Southampton Burger King robbery

A MAN who robbed a fast-food restaurant left his victims shaken and anxious .
A staff member at Burger King in Above Bar Street was forced to `` take time off work '' and now suffers from a “ mild case of PTSD ” .
Another was thought to be having a panic attack when Wilson Oliveira robbed the branch on September 12 last year .
He wore a bandana and dark glasses when demanding staff emptied the safe of money..
However , unbeknown to her colleagues , Ana Tavares Da Costa had let him in through a back door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Southampton Crown Court heard .
• Man held knife to woman 's throat during Burger King robbery - but the hostage was in on it too • ‘ I want to kill you now ’ : Knife-wielding teen 's chilling threat to neighbours Both appeared before a judge on Thursday to be sentenced for robbery .
Oliveira , of Romsey Road , faced an additional charge for possessing a bladed article .
Prosecution barrister Simon Foster told how once inside Oliveira demanded the staff members put their phones on the floor and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ made threats he was going to cut Da Costa ’ s throat ” .
After he “ pushed ” her away , he made off with £2,378 in cash which he told one of his victims to put in a rucksack .
However , when police officers checked CCTV footage from behind the restaurant they saw Da Costa “ beckoning ” someone over .
• Man queuing to buy lollipop snatched cash from till in store raid The court heard how Oliveira had met her the day of the robbery and told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go through with the heist with or without her .
At the end of the shift four members of staff - including Da Costa - had gone for a cigarette break .
Da Costa claimed she had “ left her phone outside ” and went back to open the door .
When police searched her home in Cranbury Avenue they found money in a wardrobe and a hoodie which matched the one worn by Oliveira .
She “ immediately said that the person responsible was Oliveira ” .
Both had previously pleaded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Pair accused of robbery at Burger King in Southampton Defending barrister Paul Walker said there had been “ some degree of immaturity ” on Oliveira ’ s behalf .
Meanwhile , it was argued that Da Costa had been coerced .
Da Costa was given a two-year sentence suspended for two years .

A staff member at Burger King in Above Bar Street was forced to "take time off work" and now suffers from a “mild case of PTSD”.
Another was thought to be having a panic attack when Wilson Oliveira robbed the branch on September 12 last year.
The 22-year-old held a ten-inch knife to a fake hostage's throat.
He wore a bandana and dark glasses when demanding staff emptied the safe of money..
However, unbeknown to her colleagues, Ana Tavares Da Costa had let him in through a back door and was in on the robbery, Southampton Crown Court heard.
Both appeared before a judge on Thursday to be sentenced for robbery.
Oliveira, of Romsey Road, faced an additional charge for possessing a bladed article.
Prosecution barrister Simon Foster told how once inside Oliveira demanded the staff members put their phones on the floor and to know where the safe was.
He “made threats he was going to cut Da Costa’s throat”.
After he “pushed” her away, he made off with £2,378 in cash which he told one of his victims to put in a rucksack.
However, when police officers checked CCTV footage from behind the restaurant they saw Da Costa “beckoning” someone over.
The court heard how Oliveira had met her the day of the robbery and told her he had a knife and planned to go through with the heist with or without her.
At the end of the shift four members of staff - including Da Costa - had gone for a cigarette break.
Da Costa claimed she had “left her phone outside” and went back to open the door.
When police searched her home in Cranbury Avenue they found money in a wardrobe and a hoodie which matched the one worn by Oliveira.
She “immediately said that the person responsible was Oliveira”.
Both had previously pleaded guilty to the charges against them.
Defending barrister Paul Walker said there had been “some degree of immaturity” on Oliveira’s behalf.
Meanwhile, it was argued that Da Costa had been coerced.
Judge Peter Henry jailed Oliveira for 46 months.
Da Costa was given a two-year sentence suspended for two years.


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Mystery still surrounds future of Abbey Hotel, Romsey

MYSTERY still surrounds the fate of a former Romsey hotel after community leaders voted to defer plans to turn part of the building into flats .
A planning application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council ( TVBC ) to create two flats and a maisonette spanning across the first and second floor of the Abbey Hotel , Church Street .
The plans , submitted by property investor Brightbeech Property Limited , aim to create see a two-bedroom house built at the back of the site , with zero car parking spaces .
If approved , the kitchen company , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ floor of the property , however TVBC has stressed this move is not officially `` part of the current application '' , but is being done under `` development rights '' .
Now , the plans have been pushed back after councillors agreed at the Southern Area Planning Committee on Tuesday the lack of parking would not be suitable for future residents .
Earlier in the meeting , the plans were refused by nine votes to two , with councillors citing the following reasons : a loss of tourist accommodation in the town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more pressure on off-street parking nearby and the conservation area could be negatively impacted .
However , case officer for TVBC , Paul Goodman , suggested the community leaders defer the plans to allow them to `` discuss with the applicant the ability to provide parking '' , adding he was `` struggling with the three reasons for refusal , given the compelling evidence the applicant has given '' .
Cllr Alan Dowden , who represents Valley Park on the borough council , said : `` I do n't like the application as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would at least be useful to defer the plans to see if we can get some parking there , because there is the risk if we want to appeal then we will lose it .
`` We have a much better chance of getting something that is acceptable , because the space is there and it would be in the applicant 's interest to allocate some parking . ''
Cllr John Parker , who represents the Romsey Tadburn ward , said : `` It is the fact the Abbey Hotel is in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the best of times .
`` There is scope for increased pressure on that limited amount of off-street parking in the area and further afield in other residential streets within walking distance of the site . ''
Cllr Parker also objected to the plans , believing the flats would result in a `` loss of tourist accommodation in the Romsey area '' .
He added councillors could not discuss the `` impact it will have in the conservation area '' , due to not all `` parts of the site '' being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brightbeech Property Limited , Tim Lincoln , said : `` We are disappointed that the planning committee ignored the planning officer 's recommendation for approval of the application and initially proposed refusing the application .
`` We share the disappointment of the councillors that the building is no longer viable as a hotel , but given the extraordinary negative economic circumstances we are experiencing we had hoped that a proposal for substantial financial investment to a building that has been in disrepair for more than six years would have been welcomed . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited for refusal was on the grounds of lack of parking and it was regrettable that councillors chose to ignore their own highways experts , Hampshire County Council , who are satisfied that the development does not require on-site parking .
`` It is important to clarify that planning consent was not required to convert the ground floor of the premises to a shop , so those works will happen shortly .
The application before the committee was solely for the conversion of the letting rooms to flats and the redundant function room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited for refusal was on the grounds of lack of parking and It was regrettable that councillors chose to ignore their own highways experts , Hampshire County Council , who are satisfied that the development does not require on-site parking .
`` The planning department have been very thorough and professional in their interrogation of our application and we will continue to engage with them to try and find a way forward . ''

A planning application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to create two flats and a maisonette spanning across the first and second floor of the Abbey Hotel, Church Street.
The plans, submitted by property investor Brightbeech Property Limited, aim to create see a two-bedroom house built at the back of the site, with zero car parking spaces.
If approved, the kitchen company, Kutchenhaus, could relocate into the ground floor of the property, however TVBC has stressed this move is not officially "part of the current application", but is being done under "development rights".
Now, the plans have been pushed back after councillors agreed at the Southern Area Planning Committee on Tuesday the lack of parking would not be suitable for future residents.
Earlier in the meeting, the plans were refused by nine votes to two, with councillors citing the following reasons: a loss of tourist accommodation in the town, no parking spaces could result in more pressure on off-street parking nearby and the conservation area could be negatively impacted.
However, case officer for TVBC, Paul Goodman, suggested the community leaders defer the plans to allow them to "discuss with the applicant the ability to provide parking", adding he was "struggling with the three reasons for refusal, given the compelling evidence the applicant has given".
Cllr Alan Dowden, who represents Valley Park on the borough council, said: "I don't like the application as it is, but I think it would at least be useful to defer the plans to see if we can get some parking there, because there is the risk if we want to appeal then we will lose it.
"We have a much better chance of getting something that is acceptable, because the space is there and it would be in the applicant's interest to allocate some parking."
Cllr John Parker, who represents the Romsey Tadburn ward, said: "It is the fact the Abbey Hotel is in an area, which is right for parking at the best of times.
"There is scope for increased pressure on that limited amount of off-street parking in the area and further afield in other residential streets within walking distance of the site."
Cllr Parker also objected to the plans, believing the flats would result in a "loss of tourist accommodation in the Romsey area".
He added councillors could not discuss the "impact it will have in the conservation area", due to not all "parts of the site" being included in the plans.
Director of Brightbeech Property Limited, Tim Lincoln, said: "We are disappointed that the planning committee ignored the planning officer's recommendation for approval of the application and initially proposed refusing the application.
"We share the disappointment of the councillors that the building is no longer viable as a hotel, but given the extraordinary negative economic circumstances we are experiencing we had hoped that a proposal for substantial financial investment to a building that has been in disrepair for more than six years would have been welcomed."
He added: "The principle reason cited for refusal was on the grounds of lack of parking and it was regrettable that councillors chose to ignore their own highways experts, Hampshire County Council, who are satisfied that the development does not require on-site parking.
"It is important to clarify that planning consent was not required to convert the ground floor of the premises to a shop, so those works will happen shortly. The application before the committee was solely for the conversion of the letting rooms to flats and the redundant function room to a house. The principle reason cited for refusal was on the grounds of lack of parking and It was regrettable that councillors chose to ignore their own highways experts, Hampshire County Council, who are satisfied that the development does not require on-site parking.
"The planning department have been very thorough and professional in their interrogation of our application and we will continue to engage with them to try and find a way forward."


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Coronavirus cases increase Southampton

Coronavirus cases increase Southampton

THE number of recorded coronavirus cases in Southampton increased by seven over the last 24 hours , official figures show @ @ @ @ @ show that 1,008 people had been confirmed as testing positive for Covid-19 by 9am on @ @ @ @ @ in Southampton , up from 1,001 the same time on Wednesday .
The health body @ @ @ @ @ tests – those carried out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests , which @ @ @ @ @ PHE laboratories and which made up the first stage of the Government 's mass testing @ @ @ @ @ infection in Southampton now stands at 399 cases per 100,000 people , far lower than @ @ @ @ @ .
Across the UK , the number of recorded cases increased by 1,522 over the @ @ @ @ @ Southampton 's cases were among the 37,373 recorded across the South East , a figure @ @ @ @ @ the period .
Cumulative case counts include patients who are currently unwell , have recovered @ @ @ @ @ .

Public Health England figures show that 1,008 people had been confirmed as testing positive for Covid-19 by 9am on Thursday (August 27) in Southampton, up from 1,001 the same time on Wednesday.
The health body is now including Pillar 2 tests – those carried out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests, which are analysed in NHS or PHE laboratories and which made up the first stage of the Government's mass testing programme.
The rate of infection in Southampton now stands at 399 cases per 100,000 people, far lower than the England average of 507.
Across the UK, the number of recorded cases increased by 1,522 over the period, to 330,368.
Southampton's cases were among the 37,373 recorded across the South East, a figure which rose by 93 over the period.
Cumulative case counts include patients who are currently unwell, have recovered and those that have died.


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--NHS Test and Trace system issues for Southampton residents

The NHS Test and Trace system has faced fresh criticism for a flaw in its online booking system which tries to direct people from Southampton to test centres more than 60 miles away .
Some people with coronavirus symptoms who try to book a test online are directed to centres which would take them hours to reach by car .
A number of local residents with a Southampton postcode are being directed to the north edge of Wiltshire to the city of Swindon – around a four-hour round trip .
This is despite testing centres in Portsmouth , and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to drive past on their way to Swindon .
Problems with the booking system have been highlighted from early on in the crisis but it appears that glitches in the system – which seem to disproportionately affect those on the coast – are yet to be rectified .
Down the road , a person in Gosport has been directed to the test site at Chessington World of Adventures , in Greater London , rather than the Covid-19 drive-through test site in Portsmouth .
Driving from Gosport to the Portsmouth centre takes around 26 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving from Gosport to Chessington takes almost an hour-and-a-half for a 67-mile journey .
Nationally , Labour said it was “ hugely disappointing ” that the issues were still occurring and called on the Government to address the issues as a “ matter of urgency ” .
Shadow health minister Justin Madders said : “ From the first days when testing centres were being rolled out , we have heard stories of people being sent unfeasibly long distances just to get a test , but for this to be still happening at this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and easy access to testing are cornerstones of an effective test and trace system but once again the Tories seem unable to get the basics right .
“ They must solve these problems as a matter of urgency.
” A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said : “ NHS Test and Trace is working , it ’ s completely free and is stopping the spread of coronavirus .
“ Regional testing slots are allocated based on the nearest testing site with availability and we are working to ensure this takes into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the UK should get a test as soon as possible .
”

Some people with coronavirus symptoms who try to book a test online are directed to centres which would take them hours to reach by car.
A number of local residents with a Southampton postcode are being directed to the north edge of Wiltshire to the city of Swindon – around a four-hour round trip.
This is despite testing centres in Portsmouth, and even in Salisbury - which users would have to drive past on their way to Swindon.
Problems with the booking system have been highlighted from early on in the crisis but it appears that glitches in the system – which seem to disproportionately affect those on the coast – are yet to be rectified.
Down the road, a person in Gosport has been directed to the test site at Chessington World of Adventures, in Greater London, rather than the Covid-19 drive-through test site in Portsmouth.
Driving from Gosport to the Portsmouth centre takes around 26 minutes for the 11-mile trip, while driving from Gosport to Chessington takes almost an hour-and-a-half for a 67-mile journey.
Nationally, Labour said it was “hugely disappointing” that the issues were still occurring and called on the Government to address the issues as a “matter of urgency”.
Shadow health minister Justin Madders said: “From the first days when testing centres were being rolled out, we have heard stories of people being sent unfeasibly long distances just to get a test, but for this to be still happening at this stage is hugely disappointing.
“Quick and easy access to testing are cornerstones of an effective test and trace system but once again the Tories seem unable to get the basics right.
“They must solve these problems as a matter of urgency.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “NHS Test and Trace is working, it’s completely free and is stopping the spread of coronavirus.
“Regional testing slots are allocated based on the nearest testing site with availability and we are working to ensure this takes into account journey times. Anyone with symptoms across the UK should get a test as soon as possible.”


thedailyecho--2020-08-28--Ancient symbols carved into New Forest trees recorded for posterity

THEY were carved into trees in the New Forest centuries ago and provide a fascinating insight into the distant past .
Initials , dates and royal symbols can be found at woodland sites across the national park - thanks to previous generations who literally left their mark on the area .
Now more than 100 examples of `` tree graffiti '' have been logged for posterity before they are lost forever .
Many of the etchings are being damaged by animals and people .
Trees blowing over or dying of old age also pose a threat to the survival of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempts to ward off evil spirits .
The graffiti has been recorded on a database set up by the National Park Authority ( NPA ) , which is striving to document the Forest 's rich history .
One of the most common symbols in the King 's Mark , used to identify timber that might be needed in the construction of Royal Navy vessels in the 18th and early 19th century .
Buckler 's Hard was a major shipbuilding centre that produced some of the ships which fought at the Battle of Trafalgar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following the increasing use of iron and steel but still bear their royal mark .
Some of the more recent carvings are thought to have been made by US serviceman based at RAF Stoney Cross , near Fritham , during the Second World War .
The bomber base was a hive of activity during the build-up to the D-Day landings in June 1944 .
The project to record the graffiti was launched earlier this year .
Speaking at the time NPA archaeologist Lawrence Shaw said : `` To date , there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graffiti found across the New Forest .
`` We want to be able to refer back to these glimpses into the Forest ’ s past , even when the trees themselves are lost . ''
Assistant tree officer Lucy Saunders , who has since left the authority , added : `` The New Forest is lucky to have the densest population of ancient and veteran trees in Western Europe .
`` These come with a lot of stories , as well as old graffiti you might not find anywhere else in the country @ @

Initials, dates and royal symbols can be found at woodland sites across the national park - thanks to previous generations who literally left their mark on the area.
Now more than 100 examples of "tree graffiti" have been logged for posterity before they are lost forever.
Many of the etchings are being damaged by animals and people. Trees blowing over or dying of old age also pose a threat to the survival of the historic records, which include artistic attempts to ward off evil spirits.
The graffiti has been recorded on a database set up by the National Park Authority (NPA), which is striving to document the Forest's rich history.
One of the most common symbols in the King's Mark, used to identify timber that might be needed in the construction of Royal Navy vessels in the 18th and early 19th century.
Buckler's Hard was a major shipbuilding centre that produced some of the ships which fought at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
The trees were spared following the increasing use of iron and steel but still bear their royal mark.
Some of the more recent carvings are thought to have been made by US serviceman based at RAF Stoney Cross, near Fritham, during the Second World War. The bomber base was a hive of activity during the build-up to the D-Day landings in June 1944.
The project to record the graffiti was launched earlier this year.
Speaking at the time NPA archaeologist Lawrence Shaw said: "To date, there’s no central record of the known tree graffiti found across the New Forest.
"We want to be able to refer back to these glimpses into the Forest’s past, even when the trees themselves are lost."
Assistant tree officer Lucy Saunders, who has since left the authority, added: "The New Forest is lucky to have the densest population of ancient and veteran trees in Western Europe.
"These come with a lot of stories, as well as old graffiti you might not find anywhere else in the country."