thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Lorries queued at port as Covid crisis worsens

BUSINESS leaders in Hampshire have urged the government to get freight moving again after Britain found itself cut off from large parts of Europe .
Traffic across the channel was halted after a new and faster-spreading strain of Covid-19 prompted dozens of countries to stop travel from the UK .
France introduced a 48-hour ban on hauliers crossing the channel with their cargo , bringing lorry traffic to a standstill at Dover .
Ross McNally , chief executive of Hampshire Chamber , said : “ This is an urgent situation that needs to be resolved as an absolute priority .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Hampshire and the rest of the UK is essential for consumers and businesses .
“ We call on ministers to ensure a protocol to resume freight movement is agreed and in place the moment France reopens its border with the UK after the 48-hour shutdown .
“ Governments must have meaningful discussions with each other .
There are examples of how to keep travel routes open , for example by having PCR tests up and running , that would enable freight to start moving again .
“ Ministers must take whatever steps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential products and services across borders.
” Although the crisis is threatening supplies all over the UK , the operator of the Port of Southampton said there was no direct effect on its operations .
A spokesman for ABP said : “ All of our freight services in Southampton are running as normal at present and supplies continue to come into the UK through the port as before .
“ The major impacts on freight movement relates to France and we handle very little freight directly to or from France in the Southampton.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ establish a health protocol so that lorry journeys between the UK and the continent could resume .
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said hauliers were “ quite used to anticipating disruption ” , adding there were variations in supply “ all the time ” .

Traffic across the channel was halted after a new and faster-spreading strain of Covid-19 prompted dozens of countries to stop travel from the UK.
France introduced a 48-hour ban on hauliers crossing the channel with their cargo, bringing lorry traffic to a standstill at Dover.
Ross McNally, chief executive of Hampshire Chamber, said: “This is an urgent situation that needs to be resolved as an absolute priority. The smooth movement of freight to and from Hampshire and the rest of the UK is essential for consumers and businesses.
“We call on ministers to ensure a protocol to resume freight movement is agreed and in place the moment France reopens its border with the UK after the 48-hour shutdown.
“Governments must have meaningful discussions with each other. There are examples of how to keep travel routes open, for example by having PCR tests up and running, that would enable freight to start moving again.
“Ministers must take whatever steps are necessary to safeguard to flow of essential products and services across borders.”
Although the crisis is threatening supplies all over the UK, the operator of the Port of Southampton said there was no direct effect on its operations.
A spokesman for ABP said: “All of our freight services in Southampton are running as normal at present and supplies continue to come into the UK through the port as before.
“The major impacts on freight movement relates to France and we handle very little freight directly to or from France in the Southampton.”
France was last night looking to establish a health protocol so that lorry journeys between the UK and the continent could resume.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said hauliers were “quite used to anticipating disruption”, adding there were variations in supply “all the time”.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Four animal accidents - including three in Beaulieu area

ANOTHER four animals have been involved in accidents in the New Forest - all of which occurred at the same @ @ @ @ @ mare was killed in a collision on the B3054 at Hilltop , near Beaulieu - @ @ @ @ @ in the Forest for animal accidents .
In a separate accident a calf was injured @ @ @ @ @ Bridge road .
A heifer was hit by a vehicle at Summer Lane , Beaulieu @ @ @ @ @ .
A sheep was reported to have been involved in a collision on the B3078 @ @ @ @ @ , but the animal could not be found .
The accidents occurred in the week @ @ @ @ @ .
According to the New Forest Verderers all four collisions took place between 5.15pm and @ @

A mare was killed in a collision on the B3054 at Hilltop, near Beaulieu - one of the worst areas in the Forest for animal accidents.
In a separate accident a calf was injured on the Hilltop to Ipers Bridge road.
A heifer was hit by a vehicle at Summer Lane, Beaulieu, but was not injured. A sheep was reported to have been involved in a collision on the B3078 at Wittensford, near Brook, but the animal could not be found.
The accidents occurred in the week beginning Monday, December 14.
According to the New Forest Verderers all four collisions took place between 5.15pm and 5.50pm.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Festive pets from across Hampshire don their Christmas gear

YOUR pets are feeling festive in the run up to Christmas .
We 're featuring as many of your much @ @ @ @ @ festive gear as possible .
From dogs in reindeer antlers to cats in Santa hats @ @ @ @ @ are loving getting all dressed up and ready .
One Hampshire dog was even lucky @ @ @ @ @ man himself .
As the big day fast approaches , we 're excited to see @ @ @ @ @ festive mood .
These are just a few of our favourite pictures of pets sent @ @ @ @ @ .

We're featuring as many of your much loved four-legged friends in their festive gear as possible.
From dogs in reindeer antlers to cats in Santa hats, they look like they are loving getting all dressed up and ready.
One Hampshire dog was even lucky enough to meet the big man himself.
As the big day fast approaches, we're excited to see your pets getting in the festive mood.
These are just a few of our favourite pictures of pets sent in by Daily Echo readers.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--The best Middle Eastern restaurant in the UK is in Southampton

IT 'S the family run eatery serving up recipes passed through the generations which have seen it scoop the Best Middle Eastern Restaurant in the UK award twice .
Ottoman Kitchen , which opened in the High Street , Southampton in the spring of 2019 , was awarded the accolade for the second time in as many years at the recent Asian Restaurant Awards .
Judges praised the superb food , decor and atmosphere .
The business was a long-held dream for restaurateurs Ali Fistikci and Niyazi Kaya .
They hail from a small village outside Istanbul , but had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than a decade and running a top class butchers in London .
A customer mentioned that he owned a stunning building sitting unoccupied in the heart of Southampton .
The building , previously occupied by the Ferryman and Firkin pub but unused for many years , was the perfect fit for an authentic Turkish restaurant , the first in the city .
The owners of Ottoman Kitchen pride themselves on fresh quality ingredients , tender meats expertly marinaded and grilled over Charcoal , home-baked breads and of course a warm Turkish welcome .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Halloumi , Chicken Shish , adana kofte and falafels .
Ottoman Kitchen ’ s own pastry chef also prepares various cakes from scratch every week , from traditional Baklava to favourites such as Chocolate and Honey cake .
Drinks include a range of cocktails and Efes lager on draught .
It 's been a tough year for the restaurant , which has supported local charities including the Saints Foundation , Wessex Cancer Trust and Breast Cancer Haven .
They continued to serve takeaways throughout both lockdowns and have reopened with a reduced capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retractable roof allows outdoor dining for five tables of six and the restaurant will remain open over Christmas as well as hosting a socially distanced New Year 's Eve event .
`` It 's been a very difficult balance , '' says founder Ali Fistikci .
`` The main thing for us is the staff .
We 're really trying to keep as many of our staff on as we can .
We 've probably got more staff than we actually need at the moment , but they 're a brilliant team and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at stake .
`` It 's about trying to survive at the moment , until we can get back to normal .
We have big plans and high hopes for the restaurant once we can . ''
• To feature as our trader of the week , click here

Ottoman Kitchen, which opened in the High Street, Southampton in the spring of 2019, was awarded the accolade for the second time in as many years at the recent Asian Restaurant Awards. Judges praised the superb food, decor and atmosphere.
The business was a long-held dream for restaurateurs Ali Fistikci and Niyazi Kaya. They hail from a small village outside Istanbul, but had been living in the UK for more than a decade and running a top class butchers in London.
A customer mentioned that he owned a stunning building sitting unoccupied in the heart of Southampton. The building, previously occupied by the Ferryman and Firkin pub but unused for many years, was the perfect fit for an authentic Turkish restaurant, the first in the city.
The owners of Ottoman Kitchen pride themselves on fresh quality ingredients, tender meats expertly marinaded and grilled over Charcoal, home-baked breads and of course a warm Turkish welcome.
Guests can enjoy classics such as Grilled Halloumi, Chicken Shish, adana kofte and falafels. Ottoman Kitchen’s own pastry chef also prepares various cakes from scratch every week, from traditional Baklava to favourites such as Chocolate and Honey cake. Drinks include a range of cocktails and Efes lager on draught.
It's been a tough year for the restaurant, which has supported local charities including the Saints Foundation, Wessex Cancer Trust and Breast Cancer Haven.
They continued to serve takeaways throughout both lockdowns and have reopened with a reduced capacity of 90. A conservatory with a retractable roof allows outdoor dining for five tables of six and the restaurant will remain open over Christmas as well as hosting a socially distanced New Year's Eve event.
"It's been a very difficult balance," says founder Ali Fistikci. "The main thing for us is the staff. We're really trying to keep as many of our staff on as we can. We've probably got more staff than we actually need at the moment, but they're a brilliant team and we know this is people's livelihoods at stake.
"It's about trying to survive at the moment, until we can get back to normal. We have big plans and high hopes for the restaurant once we can."


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Eastleigh residents say goodbye to their lollipop lady

A TOWN has come out in force to say farewell to their lollipop lady of 30 years .
Sharon Malcolm , who has worked as a lollipop lady on the corner of Chamberlayne Road , Eastleigh , for more than half her life , yesterday had her last day .
After years of crossing children travelling to the nearby Norwood Primary School and also local people going to work , Sharron has become well known to Eastleigh residents .
Yesterday , those residents as well as the Mayor of Eastleigh , Darshan Mann , were all in attendance to wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lady , famous for wearing her high heels whilst at work , has been doing the job since 1990 and yesterday received gifts and cards .
One parent , said : `` We will all miss Sharon , and wish her a happy retirement . ''
Now Sharon has left , she is looking forward to spending more time with her husband , and her grandson .
She said : `` I 'm going to miss the kids so much , I 've had so many lovely presents and gifts and cards and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show how much people think of me .
`` I had a big bouquet of flowers from the mayor and a local heroes award .
`` It will be nice to not have to get up so early in the morning , and be out in all weathers . ''

Sharon Malcolm, who has worked as a lollipop lady on the corner of Chamberlayne Road, Eastleigh, for more than half her life, yesterday had her last day.
After years of crossing children travelling to the nearby Norwood Primary School and also local people going to work, Sharron has become well known to Eastleigh residents.
Yesterday, those residents as well as the Mayor of Eastleigh, Darshan Mann, were all in attendance to wish Sharon a happy retirement.
The lollipop lady, famous for wearing her high heels whilst at work, has been doing the job since 1990 and yesterday received gifts and cards.
One parent, said: "We will all miss Sharon, and wish her a happy retirement."
Now Sharon has left, she is looking forward to spending more time with her husband, and her grandson.
She said: "I'm going to miss the kids so much, I've had so many lovely presents and gifts and cards and money.
"It just goes to show how much people think of me.
"I had a big bouquet of flowers from the mayor and a local heroes award.
"It will be nice to not have to get up so early in the morning, and be out in all weathers."


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Man arrested after drugs found at New Forest home

A MAN has been arrested after drugs were found at a New Forest home .
Hampshire police say officers executed @ @ @ @ @ on Chapel Lane in Lyndhurst at 8am this morning .
A `` quantity '' of @ @ @ @ @ other items associated with drug-related activity - as well as a number of tools .
@ @ @ @ @ was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and conspiracy to commit a @ @ @ @ @ custody at this time .

Hampshire police say officers executed a warrant at a property on Chapel Lane in Lyndhurst at 8am this morning.
A "quantity" of drugs were seized along with other items associated with drug-related activity - as well as a number of tools.
A 25-year-old man from Lyndhurst was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and conspiracy to commit a burglary.
He remains in custody at this time.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Drop in emergency contraceptives in Southampton

MORE than 100 fewer emergency contraceptives were provided to women in Southampton through sexual health services last year , new figures The British Pregnancy Advisory Service says lifestyle changes among younger women could be driving down demand for the morning-after pill across England .
But the decline may suggest those who do need emergency contraception are finding it harder to access after deep cuts to services , the charity Around 50 emergency contraceptives were provided to women in Southampton by sexual and reproductive health ( SRH ) services in 2019-20 , NHS Digital data shows .
This was down from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2014-15 , when local figures were first published .
Emergency contraception can be the morning-after pill or an intrauterine device – often called the coil , which is inserted into the womb to stop the egg developing .
The figures cover services including family planning and community contraception clinics , and young people ’ s advice centres , and are rounded to the nearest five for confidentiality .
Between one and seven items were provided to under-16s in Southampton last year , compared to none in 2018-19 .
Across England , around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group – 9 % fewer than the previous year and down 74 % from 2009-10 .
Katherine O ’ Brien , associate director of campaigns at BPAS , said the sharp national drop among younger women in recent years could be down to lifestyle trends .
She said : “ Our research has found that teenagers ’ patterns of social interaction – often with their families , often online , combined with lower levels of alcohol intake – may be impacting on their likelihood of engaging in sexual activity , and therefore their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people are also focused on their education , aware of economic challenges , and value responsibility and maturity when it comes to alcohol consumption and sex , the report found .
Nationally , 78,300 emergency contraception items were given to women of all ages last year – a 14 % year-on-year drop and 45 % fewer than a decade previously .
NHS Digital cautions that the figures do not represent all ways to access contraception , as it excludes services provided by hospital out-patient clinics , GPs , and pharmacies .
National figures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the number of emergency contraception items provided “ in the community ” , which includes pharmacists and GPs .

reveal.
The British Pregnancy Advisory Service says lifestyle changes among younger women could be driving down demand for the morning-after pill across England.
But the decline may suggest those who do need emergency contraception are finding it harder to access after deep cuts to services, the charity
warns.
Around 50 emergency contraceptives were provided to women in Southampton by sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services in 2019-20, NHS Digital data shows.
This was down from 180 the previous year, and 325 in 2014-15, when local figures were first published.
Emergency contraception can be the morning-after pill or an intrauterine device – often called the coil, which is inserted into the womb to stop the egg developing.
The figures cover services including family planning and community contraception clinics, and young people’s advice centres, and are rounded to the nearest five for confidentiality.
Between one and seven items were provided to under-16s in Southampton last year, compared to none in 2018-19.
Across England, around 4,300 items were given to the age group – 9% fewer than the previous year and down 74% from 2009-10.
Katherine O’Brien, associate director of campaigns at BPAS, said the sharp national drop among younger women in recent years could be down to lifestyle trends.
She said: “Our research has found that teenagers’ patterns of social interaction – often with their families, often online, combined with lower levels of alcohol intake – may be impacting on their likelihood of engaging in sexual activity, and therefore their need to access emergency contraception.”
Younger people are also focused on their education, aware of economic challenges, and value responsibility and maturity when it comes to alcohol consumption and sex, the report found.
Nationally, 78,300 emergency contraception items were given to women of all ages last year – a 14% year-on-year drop and 45% fewer than a decade previously.
NHS Digital cautions that the figures do not represent all ways to access contraception, as it excludes services provided by hospital out-patient clinics, GPs, and pharmacies.
National figures by the body show a similar drop in the number of emergency contraception items provided “in the community”, which includes pharmacists and GPs.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Civic chiefs approve plans submitted by Millbrook Industries

PLANS to upgrade a company car park in a Hampshire town have been given the go-ahead .
Millbrook Industries has @ @ @ @ @ create additional `` formalised '' car parking for staff at its site in Nutwood Way @ @ @ @ @ Eling Town Council had urged New Forest District Council ( NFDC ) to approve the @ @ @ @ @ to the authority it said the proposal would enhance the current system , creating designated @ @ @ @ @ would improve parking arrangements for staff .
A report to NFDC members added : `` @ @ @ @ @ in principle and would not result in undue impacts on trees , drainage , amenity @ @ @ @ @ of the surrounding area . ''

Millbrook Industries has been given planning permission to create additional "formalised" car parking for staff at its site in Nutwood Way, Totton.
Totton and Eling Town Council had urged New Forest District Council (NFDC) to approve the application.
In a letter to the authority it said the proposal would enhance the current system, creating designated spaces in a move that would improve parking arrangements for staff.
A report to NFDC members added: "The application is considered acceptable in principle and would not result in undue impacts on trees, drainage, amenity, or the existing character of the surrounding area."


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Romsey's Liftaway to recycle Christmas trees for charity

IF you do n't know what to do with your Christmas tree once the festive period has been and gone @ @ @ @ @ solution for you .
A Romsey company is to provide a Christmas tree collection and @ @ @ @ @ while raising money for charity .
Between January 4 and January 8 , Ace Liftaway @ @ @ @ @ from people 's driveways or front gardens in exchange for a minimum £5 donation .
@ @ @ @ @ the company 's site on Yokesford Hill where they will be recycled through a wood @ @ @ @ @ mass fuel .
All proceeds will be donated to Alfie 's Wish , a charity @ @ @ @ @ in the UK by funding days out with their families so they can make memories @ @ @ @ @ up in memory of five-year-old Alfie Butler , from Romsey , who died from a @ @ @ @ @ a slot or get more information on which areas are covered call 01794 367939 .

A Romsey company is to provide a Christmas tree collection and recycling service to avoid wastage while raising money for charity.
Between January 4 and January 8, Ace Liftaway Ltd will be collecting trees from people's driveways or front gardens in exchange for a minimum £5 donation.
Trees will be taken to the company's site on Yokesford Hill where they will be recycled through a wood shredder and used for bio mass fuel.
All proceeds will be donated to Alfie's Wish, a charity that supports children with cancer in the UK by funding days out with their families so they can make memories together.
It was set up in memory of five-year-old Alfie Butler, from Romsey, who died from a brain tumour.
To book a slot or get more information on which areas are covered call 01794 367939.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--It's better to give than receive, says resident GP Dr Zak

IT 'S better to give than to receive .
While this may sound like common sense to some , or perhaps a touch trite to others , scientific evidence irrefutably demonstrates that simple acts of kindness , which need neither cost a lot of money , nor require vast amounts of time , can be as good for you as the person receiving your gesture .
It is no longer uncommon for volunteers well into their eighth , ninth and remarkably even tenth decades to be regularly assisting local organisations , for no financial recompense whatsoever , yet with genuine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would be easy to say , “ why bother ?
” , those who help others live longer and report lower levels of both physical and mental ill health .
The effect of volunteering can be as beneficial as five portions of fruit and vegetables a day .
Kindness is somewhat difficult to define , but it is often thought of as an action or gesture , no matter how small , done for the benefit of another , or others , without expecting reward .
It has been shown to improve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Acts of kindness increase levels of the hormone oxytocin , which causes the release of the chemical nitric oxide ( NO ) .
NO causes blood vessels to dilate , reducing blood pressure .
Raised blood pressure is one of the biggest contributors to the development of heart disease .
Kindness has also been demonstrated to decrease levels of inflammation in the body .
Excess inflammation is linked with greater risk of heart disease , diabetes , joint conditions and even cancer .
Kindness benefits our mental health in multiple ways .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ serotonin in the brain , which may be sustained for up to seven days after a single act of kindness .
It causes a drop in cortisol , the hormone associated with the fight or flight response , and the emotions of fear and pain .
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging ( fMRI ) demonstrates reduced activity in the amygdala , the area of the brain associated with fear , in those who regularly practice kindness .
The perception of pain can also be affected by kindness .
Those who give blood report less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sample is taken for other reasons .
It has been found that kindness may be as effective in the management of anxiety and depression as counselling and medication .
Kindness also has the ability to refocus your perception .

And although it would be easy to say, “why bother?”, those who help others live longer and report lower levels of both physical and mental ill health. The effect of volunteering can be as beneficial as five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.
Kindness is somewhat difficult to define, but it is often thought of as an action or gesture, no matter how small, done for the benefit of another, or others, without expecting reward.
It has been shown to improve our health and wellbeing in several ways. Acts of kindness increase levels of the hormone oxytocin, which causes the release of the chemical nitric oxide (NO). NO causes blood vessels to dilate, reducing blood pressure. Raised blood pressure is one of the biggest contributors to the development of heart disease. Kindness has also been demonstrated to decrease levels of inflammation in the body. Excess inflammation is linked with greater risk of heart disease, diabetes, joint conditions and even cancer.
Kindness benefits our mental health in multiple ways. It raises concentrations of the feel-good chemical serotonin in the brain, which may be sustained for up to seven days after a single act of kindness. It causes a drop in cortisol, the hormone associated with the fight or flight response, and the emotions of fear and pain. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) demonstrates reduced activity in the amygdala, the area of the brain associated with fear, in those who regularly practice kindness.
The perception of pain can also be affected by kindness. Those who give blood report less pain when donating than when a blood sample is taken for other reasons.
It has been found that kindness may be as effective in the management of anxiety and depression as counselling and medication.
Kindness also has the ability to refocus your perception.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Openreach creating jobs with rollout of full fibre broadband

OPENREACH is to create 69 jobs in Hampshire and 341 in the South East next year as it improves its networks and connects people to ultra-fast ‘ full fibre ’ broadband .
The BT-owned infrastructure company says its expansion will create more than 2,500 full time jobs in its own business and an estimated 2,800 in its supply chain .
It has also made a commitment to convert all its 27,000 vehicles , the second largest commercial fleet in the UK , to electric by 2030 .
Openreach aims for its full fibre programme to reach 20million homes and businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right investment conditions exist .
It says it is delivering faster and more reliable internet to 40,000 more homes and businesses each week .
The Centre for Economics and Business Research ( CEBR ) has found a nationwide full-fibre broadband network would boost UK productivity by £59billion by 2025 and could help nearly a million more people into jobs by allowing them to work at home – including more than 300,000 carers , nearly 250,000 older workers and 400,000 parents .
The economic benefit for the South East could be up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ As a major employer and infrastructure builder , we believe Openreach can play a leading role in helping the UK to build back better and greener .
“ Our full fibre network build is going faster than ever and we ’ re now looking for people across the South East to build a career with Openreach and help us upgrade broadband connections and continue improving service levels throughout the region .
We ’ re also investing in our supply chain , which will support the creation of thousands of jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We know the network we ’ re building can deliver a host of green benefits – from consuming less power to enabling more home working and fewer commuting trips – and we ’ re going to take that a step further , by committing to build and maintain that network using state of the art electric vehicles across our 27,000-strong fleet .
We ’ ll have completely transitioned to EVs by 2030.
” Chancellor Rishi Sunak said : “ Throughout this crisis I ’ ve been clear that our number one economic priority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m delighted to welcome this announcement of 5,000 new skilled roles .
“ We ’ re investing billions of pounds across the UK as part of our Plan for Jobs to ensure nobody is left without hope or opportunity.
” More than 3.5m premises can now order a gigabit capable Full Fibre broadband service from a range of competing service providers using Openreach ’ s new network .

The BT-owned infrastructure company says its expansion will create more than 2,500 full time jobs in its own business and an estimated 2,800 in its supply chain.
It has also made a commitment to convert all its 27,000 vehicles, the second largest commercial fleet in the UK, to electric by 2030.
Openreach aims for its full fibre programme to reach 20million homes and businesses by the mid to late 2020s if the right investment conditions exist.
It says it is delivering faster and more reliable internet to 40,000 more homes and businesses each week.
The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has found a nationwide full-fibre broadband network would boost UK productivity by £59billion by 2025 and could help nearly a million more people into jobs by allowing them to work at home – including more than 300,000 carers, nearly 250,000 older workers and 400,000 parents. The economic benefit for the South East could be up to £8.7bn.
Openreach regional director Connie Dixon said: “As a major employer and infrastructure builder, we believe Openreach can play a leading role in helping the UK to build back better and greener.
“Our full fibre network build is going faster than ever and we’re now looking for people across the South East to build a career with Openreach and help us upgrade broadband connections and continue improving service levels throughout the region. We’re also investing in our supply chain, which will support the creation of thousands of jobs based all over the UK.
“We know the network we’re building can deliver a host of green benefits – from consuming less power to enabling more home working and fewer commuting trips – and we’re going to take that a step further, by committing to build and maintain that network using state of the art electric vehicles across our 27,000-strong fleet. We’ll have completely transitioned to EVs by 2030.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: “Throughout this crisis I’ve been clear that our number one economic priority is to protect jobs, so I’m delighted to welcome this announcement of 5,000 new skilled roles.
“We’re investing billions of pounds across the UK as part of our Plan for Jobs to ensure nobody is left without hope or opportunity.”
More than 3.5m premises can now order a gigabit capable Full Fibre broadband service from a range of competing service providers using Openreach’s new network.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Care home approved on former pub site at Otterbourne

CITY councillors have approved revised plans for a new care home in Otterbourne .
Barchester Healthcare applied to alter permission for a 62-bedroom facility and nurses accommodation on the site of the demolished Captain Barnard public house on Otterbourne Road .
That scheme was approved in February and now Barchester has applied to add two bedroom and remove the nurses accommodation and provide 21 parking spaces .
Planning officer Verity Murphy told the planning committee that the overall height had been reduced and the new plan was similar in design and scale to the one most recently approved .
Two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The proposal attracted 25 objections .
Near neighbour James Marshall sold part of his garden to a previous care home developer in 2010 with a covenant to prevent the development close to his property and a limit on the height to two storeys .
Mr Marshall said the new proposal , unlike previous ones , had unacceptable overlooking into his garden .
But the committee that was a civil and not a planning issue .
Tim Hunt , speaking for Compton and Shawford Parish Council , raised concerns about the lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parking on the Otterbourne Road .
`` It will be pretty terrible .
At rush hour that road becomes very busy .
Any vehicles that do park usually have to park on the pavement , otherwise the road gets completely snarled up . ''
Nick Billington , agent for Barchester , said : `` I do n't think there will be significant overspill on a regular basis .
I ca n't say there wo n't be any , but I think we have provided sufficient that it will be minimised . ''
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official guidance Mr Billington said he understood Barchester was complying with the covenant with Mr Marshall .
Cllr Jane Rutter said the committee hands were tied because of previous planning approvals .
`` It is a good site for development and we all need how much we need supported housing like this .
It is a sustainable site with regular buses from early to very late . ''
Cllr Frank Pearson said : `` More care homes are desperately needed .
This looks like a grand one . ''

Barchester Healthcare applied to alter permission for a 62-bedroom facility and nurses accommodation on the site of the demolished Captain Barnard public house on Otterbourne Road.
That scheme was approved in February and now Barchester has applied to add two bedroom and remove the nurses accommodation and provide 21 parking spaces.
Planning officer Verity Murphy told the planning committee that the overall height had been reduced and the new plan was similar in design and scale to the one most recently approved. Two mature trees on site will be retained.
The proposal attracted 25 objections. Near neighbour James Marshall sold part of his garden to a previous care home developer in 2010 with a covenant to prevent the development close to his property and a limit on the height to two storeys.
Mr Marshall said the new proposal, unlike previous ones, had unacceptable overlooking into his garden. But the committee that was a civil and not a planning issue.
Tim Hunt, speaking for Compton and Shawford Parish Council, raised concerns about the lack of parking on site and the likelihood of parking on the Otterbourne Road. "It will be pretty terrible. At rush hour that road becomes very busy. Any vehicles that do park usually have to park on the pavement, otherwise the road gets completely snarled up."
Nick Billington, agent for Barchester, said: "I don't think there will be significant overspill on a regular basis. I can't say there won't be any, but I think we have provided sufficient that it will be minimised."
Ms Murphy said the 21 spaces complied with official guidance
Mr Billington said he understood Barchester was complying with the covenant with Mr Marshall.
Cllr Jane Rutter said the committee hands were tied because of previous planning approvals. "It is a good site for development and we all need how much we need supported housing like this. It is a sustainable site with regular buses from early to very late."
Cllr Frank Pearson said: "More care homes are desperately needed. This looks like a grand one."
The plan was unanimously approved.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Fareham council to improve firework safety and reduce noise

A COUNCIL in Hampshire has agreed to run a campaign to encourage the responsible use of fireworks .
At a meeting on December 17 , Fareham Borough Council agreed to run a campaign to make fireworks quieter and improve safety measures around using them .
The council hopes to encourage all public firework displays are advertised in advanced and use 'quieter ' fireworks ; to raise awareness of fireworks on animal welfare , vulnerable people and the environment ; to lobby government to make a law on the maximum noise level of fireworks ; to use fireworks that are reduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local suppliers of fireworks to stock 'quieter ' fireworks for public and private displays .
Councillor Tom Davies said : `` I 'm absolutely delighted the amended motion has passed .
This was a real team and cross party effort and demonstrates the commitment of our Councillors to address this issue which is so close to the hearts of many of our residents .
`` Our MP Suella Braverman and I ran a poll last year and found overwhelming support for fireworks restrictions and I 'm so pleased that we 've been able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wildlife , vulnerable people and pets that this motion will assist .
`` We are calling now on the government to legislate for change that they must recognise the people of our Country demand .
We are not being kill joys , we are not suggesting a ban , we are asking to reduce the level of noise and pollution as well as the duration of fireworks .
We owe it to the animals and the vulnerable to act . ''

At a meeting on December 17, Fareham Borough Council agreed to run a campaign to make fireworks quieter and improve safety measures around using them.
The council hopes to encourage all public firework displays are advertised in advanced and use 'quieter' fireworks; to raise awareness of fireworks on animal welfare, vulnerable people and the environment; to lobby government to make a law on the maximum noise level of fireworks; to use fireworks that are reduced noise and environmentally friendly and to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock 'quieter' fireworks for public and private displays.
Councillor Tom Davies said: "I'm absolutely delighted the amended motion has passed. This was a real team and cross party effort and demonstrates the commitment of our Councillors to address this issue which is so close to the hearts of many of our residents.
"Our MP Suella Braverman and I ran a poll last year and found overwhelming support for fireworks restrictions and I'm so pleased that we've been able to go some way to helping the wildlife, vulnerable people and pets that this motion will assist.
"We are calling now on the government to legislate for change that they must recognise the people of our Country demand. We are not being kill joys, we are not suggesting a ban, we are asking to reduce the level of noise and pollution as well as the duration of fireworks. We owe it to the animals and the vulnerable to act."


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--UK TV company looks for people to take part in new series

A TV company is looking for people to apply for it 's new series set in rural Britain .
Five @ @ @ @ @ brand-new TV series next year for a `` major British channel '' and is now @ @ @ @ @ to take part .
The series is said to be about saying goodbye to smartphones @ @ @ @ @ media , Amazon and all the distractions and pressures of normal life .
• Netflix @ @ @ @ @ popular baby names of 2020 It will look at going and live a simpler life @ @ @ @ @ life ’ fantasy to think about `` what our modern life and its multitude of @ @ @ @ @ us '' .
The show will explore the idea of whether in fact , less @ @ @ @ @ take place over a number of months next year in rural Britain .
The TV @ @ @ @ @ of all ages to apply ; families , couples , single people , `` to @ @ @ @ @ normal life and step into a different way of living '' .

Five Mile Films is making a brand-new TV series next year for a "major British channel" and is now looking for people to apply to take part.
The series is said to be about saying goodbye to smartphones, Zoom calls, social media, Amazon and all the distractions and pressures of normal life.
It will look at going and live a simpler life and experiencing the ‘good life’ fantasy to think about "what our modern life and its multitude of choices, has really given us".
The show will explore the idea of whether in fact, less is more.
Filming will take place over a number of months next year in rural Britain.
The TV company is looking for people of all ages to apply; families, couples, single people, "to take time out from their normal life and step into a different way of living".


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--AGONY ADVICE: Counsellor Fiona Caine talks divorce and early menopause

Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine advises a woman worried about early menopause and another whose husband walked out .
MY PARENTS THINK I SHOULD GET A DIVORCE - ARE THEY RIGHT ?
I am 24 and have a lovely but noisy 18-month-old baby and another one on the way .
Last week , my husband of only two years , who is 22 , simply walked out and went back to live with his mum .
He did n't say why he was leaving but he 's really been struggling with everything lately .
He lost his job five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and he 's been so worried about money .
On top of that , I think he was finding the reality of family life just too much .
My parents are horrified that he 's done this , they 've never really liked him and are putting great pressure on me to get a divorce .
They think he is always going to be a weak husband and father and that I should cut my losses and run now .
But I 'm not sure that that is what I want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My husband speaks to me almost every day , and I know he 's struggling and is very unhappy .
Whilst he has n't gone into any details , I think he would like to make at least one attempt to rescue our marriage , but my parents wo n't listen .
Are they right - is my husband just weak , or will he ever be able to cope with life ?
I 'm just not sure what I should do .
FIONA SAYS : THIS IS YOUR MARRIAGE AND LIFE I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolated at the moment and feel the need to turn to your parents for help , but please do n't let them dictate to you what happens next .
This is YOUR life , YOUR marriage , and if you allow them to override your wishes now , I am sure you will regret it later .
So many people have developed anxiety , depression and other mental health issues as a result of the huge economic and social upheaval the pandemic has caused .
For your parents to judge him as 'weak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm sure he 's desperately worried about life and how he 's going to cope raising a young family without a job .
It 's unsurprising he wants to feel like he 's somewhere 'safe ' with less pressure , so if he had a happy , secure childhood , it makes sense that he would turn to his family home .
The very fact that he 's contacting you every day indicates that he still feels a responsibility towards you and the children .
For what it 's worth , I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if that is what you want .
As a first step , I suggest you maintain the contact with your husband and encourage him to talk about his feelings and what he wants from life .
Whilst it may not be easy to find a new job , perhaps encourage him in this too ; he might want to consider new or additional training .
As your parents are being so negative about him , I would also suggest you keep them apart from each another .
If his mental health is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could set back any recovery he is making .
That does n't mean you and the children should n't see them , but do so without your husband for the time being .
I would also be quite firm with them , if they start pushing you on divorce matters .
Whilst they obviously have your wellbeing at heart , they may not have been impacted in the same way , either economically or psychologically , so do n't really understand .
It could well be worth suggesting to your husband that you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relate.org.uk ) .
It would give you a chance to talk through relationship concerns , as well as how you can support and help each other to prevent it breaking down again .
That way , even if things do still eventually lead to separating , you 'll know that you 'll have done all you could to try and work things out .
COULD I BE GOING THROUGH MENOPAUSE AT 42 ?
I 'm only 42 - so I was shocked and really upset when a friend suggested I might be starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some extreme mood swings over the past couple of months , but I put it down to anxiety about life as it is right now .
I know I 've had times when I 've got really angry , but she says I 've been shouting at people for little or no reason .
I 've just put that down to the fact I 'm having trouble sleeping .
I 've also had times when I 've burst into tears or simply wanted to be left alone , but I put it down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggled a bit with period problems .
When my friend pointed out that I 've been like this continually for over three months now , it was a bit of a shock .
Could she be right ?
Surely I am too young to be entering the menopause ?
I checked with my mum and she was in her mid-50s when she went through hers .
FIONA SAYS : TALK TO YOUR GP Whilst the majority of women start to go through menopause between age 45 and 55 , it can start earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So , although you are only 42 and your mother was older when she had hers , that does n't automatically mean you 're not starting to show symptoms now .
However , this is really a conversation to have with your GP .
You mention mood swings , which are significant enough for your friend to make a comment .
You do n't mention whether you 've experienced any other possible signs and symptoms that may be related to menopause , such as irregular bleeding , urinary problems , vaginal dryness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these can all be indicators .
Sleep disturbances can also be an indicator of menopause - so whilst anxiety , as you say , could certainly be causing your sleeping difficulties , it 's worth bearing in mind that it could be linked to something else too .
I suggest you arrange to see your doctor and discuss it all .
They may want to do a blood test to check your hormone levels .
If it turns out you are entering the menopause , please do n't panic .
There are numerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as helpful lifestyle advice and complementary therapies .
Although it 's been around a while , you might also find it helpful to read the book Is it Me , Or Is It Hot in Here ?
A Modern Woman 's Guide To The Menopause by Jenni Murray .
It might be a little dated but I think it 's still one of the best books on menopause .
Whatever happens , it sounds like it could be a good idea to talk to your GP anyway .
There are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with things like anxiety and sleep problems .
You might consider counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy ( CBT ) , which is a type of talking therapy that can help with low mood and anxiety .
SHOULD I TAKE THIS DREAM JOB OVERSEAS ?
I left University two years ago and struggled to get a decent job , so I 'm back living at home where , to be honest , I 'm happy and comfortable .
I could chug along in the rather dead-end job I 've got , but I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moving abroad .
Obviously , I 'm excited but I 'm also nervous .
What if I mess it up ?
Will I be able to cope without my friends and family around me ?
Certainly , the thought of leaving them all behind is upsetting , but this is a tremendous opportunity with accommodation thrown in and I 'd be a fool to waste it .
Everyone is encouraging me , but I still feel very confused about what to do .
FIONA SAYS : IT 'S NATURAL TO BE ANXIOUS I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity but I can understand why you feel apprehensive - Any new job carries with it an equal measure of excitement and doubt .
One that involves moving to a different country will , of course , carry additional anxiety - but what 's the worst that can happen ?
If it does n't work out , you can always come home , so all you really need is to make sure you have enough money for your return airfare .
You could find out if the company offers regular return trips as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably only likely to be annual though .
The company obviously has confidence in you , so try and have a bit more faith in your own abilities .
Find out as much as you can about the job you 'll be doing and about the area you 'll be living in .
Look at what leisure facilities and social activities are on offer and whether you 'll have local colleagues to guide you .
Once you 're armed with a bit more information , I 'm sure it wo n't seem as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start to feel homesick , try and stick it out for at least six months because homesickness almost always passes once a new lifestyle kicks in .
Here 's wishing you the best of luck for success in the future !
WHY IS IT SO HARD TO MEET SOMEONE ?
Why is it so hard to find somebody to share my life with ?
I 've had two failed marriages and several failed relationships .
My second marriage ended because my husband knocked me about , and of the two children from that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with me .
He has epilepsy and learning difficulties and will always be dependent , but I feel I need a relationship with someone my own age .
The trouble is , whenever I meet someone .
they seem to want sex straight away and I just want to be able to meet people without having to get involved immediately .
I have been on my own now for 10 years and I think it 's time I tried again .
FIONA SAYS : COULD YOU FOCUS ON FRIENDSHIP INSTEAD ?
I wonder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach to dating ?
Some people do want to have sex right away or might be after something casual , but there are also plenty of people who want to take things slowly and are focused on meeting the right person - it 's a question of finding suitable matches for you and being clear about what you are looking for .
Obviously , it 's tricky right now and the focus may be on dating apps .
But this could perhaps be a chance to get to know someone at a distance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out with strangers is n't as easy anyway ?
Alternatively , could it be time to stop thinking about meeting someone to share your life with and think , instead , of finding new friends ?
If you were , for example , to try to introduce some other interests into your life , such as a hobby or craft , a sport of some kind , an education class , or even some voluntary work ( these may be on hold until restrictions allow things to open up again , of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you do , just as long as it brings you into contact with potential friends .
Then , once you 've established the companionship you need , you 'll be able to think more clearly about a serious relationship - and one might grow out of a friendship that you 've made .
If you have a problem you need help with , email Fiona by writing to help @ askfiona.net for advice .
All letters are treated in complete confidence and , to protect this privacy , Fiona is unable to pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fiona regrets that she can not enter into personal correspondence .

MY PARENTS THINK I SHOULD GET A DIVORCE - ARE THEY RIGHT?
I am 24 and have a lovely but noisy 18-month-old baby and another one on the way. Last week, my husband of only two years, who is 22, simply walked out and went back to live with his mum.
He didn't say why he was leaving but he's really been struggling with everything lately. He lost his job five months ago when his company went bust, and he's been so worried about money. On top of that, I think he was finding the reality of family life just too much.
My parents are horrified that he's done this, they've never really liked him and are putting great pressure on me to get a divorce. They think he is always going to be a weak husband and father and that I should cut my losses and run now. But I'm not sure that that is what I want to do, at least not yet.
My husband speaks to me almost every day, and I know he's struggling and is very unhappy. Whilst he hasn't gone into any details, I think he would like to make at least one attempt to rescue our marriage, but my parents won't listen.
Are they right - is my husband just weak, or will he ever be able to cope with life? I'm just not sure what I should do.
C. S.
FIONA SAYS: THIS IS YOUR MARRIAGE AND LIFE
I'm sure you're feeling a bit isolated at the moment and feel the need to turn to your parents for help, but please don't let them dictate to you what happens next. This is YOUR life, YOUR marriage, and if you allow them to override your wishes now, I am sure you will regret it later.
So many people have developed anxiety, depression and other mental health issues as a result of the huge economic and social upheaval the pandemic has caused.
For your parents to judge him as 'weak' is hardly fair, when I'm sure he's desperately worried about life and how he's going to cope raising a young family without a job.
It's unsurprising he wants to feel like he's somewhere 'safe' with less pressure, so if he had a happy, secure childhood, it makes sense that he would turn to his family home. The very fact that he's contacting you every day indicates that he still feels a responsibility towards you and the children.
For what it's worth, I think you are right to attempt a reconciliation, if that is what you want. As a first step, I suggest you maintain the contact with your husband and encourage him to talk about his feelings and what he wants from life. Whilst it may not be easy to find a new job, perhaps encourage him in this too; he might want to consider new or additional training.
As your parents are being so negative about him, I would also suggest you keep them apart from each another. If his mental health is fragile, a disparaging remark from them could set back any recovery he is making. That doesn't mean you and the children shouldn't see them, but do so without your husband for the time being.
I would also be quite firm with them, if they start pushing you on divorce matters. Whilst they obviously have your wellbeing at heart, they may not have been impacted in the same way, either economically or psychologically, so don't really understand.
It could well be worth suggesting to your husband that you talk to a Relate counsellor together (relate.org.uk).
It would give you a chance to talk through relationship concerns, as well as how you can support and help each other to prevent it breaking down again. That way, even if things do still eventually lead to separating, you'll know that you'll have done all you could to try and work things out.
COULD I BE GOING THROUGH MENOPAUSE AT 42?
I'm only 42 - so I was shocked and really upset when a friend suggested I might be starting the menopause. I've been having some extreme mood swings over the past couple of months, but I put it down to anxiety about life as it is right now.
I know I've had times when I've got really angry, but she says I've been shouting at people for little or no reason.
I've just put that down to the fact I'm having trouble sleeping. I've also had times when I've burst into tears or simply wanted to be left alone, but I put it down to being pre-menstrual as I've always struggled a bit with period problems.
When my friend pointed out that I've been like this continually for over three months now, it was a bit of a shock. Could she be right? Surely I am too young to be entering the menopause? I checked with my mum and she was in her mid-50s when she went through hers.
P. A.
FIONA SAYS: TALK TO YOUR GP
Whilst the majority of women start to go through menopause between age 45 and 55, it can start earlier - in some cases, much earlier. So, although you are only 42 and your mother was older when she had hers, that doesn't automatically mean you're not starting to show symptoms now. However, this is really a conversation to have with your GP.
You mention mood swings, which are significant enough for your friend to make a comment. You don't mention whether you've experienced any other possible signs and symptoms that may be related to menopause, such as irregular bleeding, urinary problems, vaginal dryness, hot flushes and sudden sweats - these can all be indicators. Sleep disturbances can also be an indicator of menopause - so whilst anxiety, as you say, could certainly be causing your sleeping difficulties, it's worth bearing in mind that it could be linked to something else too.
I suggest you arrange to see your doctor and discuss it all. They may want to do a blood test to check your hormone levels. If it turns out you are entering the menopause, please don't panic. There are numerous treatments available to help manage the symptoms, as well as helpful lifestyle advice and complementary therapies.
Although it's been around a while, you might also find it helpful to read the book Is it Me, Or Is It Hot in Here? A Modern Woman's Guide To The Menopause by Jenni Murray. It might be a little dated but I think it's still one of the best books on menopause.
Whatever happens, it sounds like it could be a good idea to talk to your GP anyway. There are also lots of things that can help with things like anxiety and sleep problems. You might consider counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a type of talking therapy that can help with low mood and anxiety.
SHOULD I TAKE THIS DREAM JOB OVERSEAS?
I left University two years ago and struggled to get a decent job, so I'm back living at home where, to be honest, I'm happy and comfortable. I could chug along in the rather dead-end job I've got, but I've been offered a dream job which means moving abroad.
Obviously, I'm excited but I'm also nervous. What if I mess it up? Will I be able to cope without my friends and family around me? Certainly, the thought of leaving them all behind is upsetting, but this is a tremendous opportunity with accommodation thrown in and I'd be a fool to waste it.
Everyone is encouraging me, but I still feel very confused about what to do.
S. M.
FIONA SAYS: IT'S NATURAL TO BE ANXIOUS
I think you know you should take this opportunity but I can understand why you feel apprehensive - Any new job carries with it an equal measure of excitement and doubt.
One that involves moving to a different country will, of course, carry additional anxiety - but what's the worst that can happen?
If it doesn't work out, you can always come home, so all you really need is to make sure you have enough money for your return airfare. You could find out if the company offers regular return trips as part of the package - these are probably only likely to be annual though.
The company obviously has confidence in you, so try and have a bit more faith in your own abilities. Find out as much as you can about the job you'll be doing and about the area you'll be living in. Look at what leisure facilities and social activities are on offer and whether you'll have local colleagues to guide you. Once you're armed with a bit more information, I'm sure it won't seem as daunting.
If you do go and start to feel homesick, try and stick it out for at least six months because homesickness almost always passes once a new lifestyle kicks in. Here's wishing you the best of luck for success in the future!
WHY IS IT SO HARD TO MEET SOMEONE?
Why is it so hard to find somebody to share my life with?
I've had two failed marriages and several failed relationships. My second marriage ended because my husband knocked me about, and of the two children from that marriage, the younger one still lives with me. He has epilepsy and learning difficulties and will always be dependent, but I feel I need a relationship with someone my own age.
The trouble is, whenever I meet someone. they seem to want sex straight away and I just want to be able to meet people without having to get involved immediately. I have been on my own now for 10 years and I think it's time I tried again.
E. M.
FIONA SAYS: COULD YOU FOCUS ON FRIENDSHIP INSTEAD?
I wonder whether it's worth trying a different approach to dating? Some people do want to have sex right away or might be after something casual, but there are also plenty of people who want to take things slowly and are focused on meeting the right person - it's a question of finding suitable matches for you and being clear about what you are looking for.
Obviously, it's tricky right now and the focus may be on dating apps. But this could perhaps be a chance to get to know someone at a distance maybe, since meeting up and going out with strangers isn't as easy anyway?
Alternatively, could it be time to stop thinking about meeting someone to share your life with and think, instead, of finding new friends? If you were, for example, to try to introduce some other interests into your life, such as a hobby or craft, a sport of some kind, an education class, or even some voluntary work (these may be on hold until restrictions allow things to open up again, of course). It doesn't matter what you do, just as long as it brings you into contact with potential friends. Then, once you've established the companionship you need, you'll be able to think more clearly about a serious relationship - and one might grow out of a friendship that you've made.
If you have a problem you need help with, email Fiona by writing to help@askfiona.net for advice. All letters are treated in complete confidence and, to protect this privacy, Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers. Fiona regrets that she cannot enter into personal correspondence.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--How Churches are celebrating Christmas differently this year

CHURCHES across Hampshire have come up with alternative ways to celebrate Christmas among lockdown restrictions .
Churchgoers in the South have instead found creative ways to bring the community together .
Outdoor , drive-in and digital services are allowing congregations to sing together and be COVID-safe .
St John ’ s Church , Locks Heath , is creating an Advent Trail during December .
Every day , a new Advent window will be created in a home in the local area .
Families and others can walk around the neighbourhood to spot the themed windows .
A drive-in carol service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Swanmore village hall car park .
The service will take place on December 20 at 6pm , in partnership with Swanmore parish council and Swanmore methodist church .
Young people from St Barnabas have also pre-recorded a Nativity play - premiered online at 5pm on Christmas Eve .
Residents in Sarisbury Green are invited to record themselves singing at home for a virtual community carol service .
The videos will be edited together and broadcast during services led by St Paul ’ s , Sarisbury Green , on December 20 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Church are encouraged to sing carols on their doorsteps as part of the BBC radio initiative 'Doorstep Carols ' - 6-7pm on December 16 .
Congregations from Holy Trinity and St Columba , Fareham , have contacted those who lost loved ones during 2020 with a ‘ bag of hope ’ .
The church was unable to welcome bereaved families for its regular November service and instead have sent each person a bag which includes a prayer card , a floating candle and a tulip bulb , all of which can be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There is also a star onto which each person can write the name of their loved one , bring it to church and hang it on the Christmas tree there ( or their tree at home ) .
The churches are open from 10am-12pm on Saturday mornings .
At All Saints Church , Botley , a Nativity with life-size images of characters from the story of Jesus ’ s birth has been set up .
This will progress every week through Advent and Christmas , ending with the wise men at Epiphany @ @ @

Churchgoers in the South have instead found creative ways to bring the community together.
Outdoor, drive-in and digital services are allowing congregations to sing together and be COVID-safe.
St John’s Church, Locks Heath, is creating an Advent Trail during December.
Every day, a new Advent window will be created in a home in the local area. Families and others can walk around the neighbourhood to spot the themed windows.
A drive-in carol service is being organised at St Barnabas Church in the Swanmore village hall car park.
The service will take place on December 20 at 6pm, in partnership with Swanmore parish council and Swanmore methodist church.
Young people from St Barnabas have also pre-recorded a Nativity play - premiered online at 5pm on Christmas Eve.
Residents in Sarisbury Green are invited to record themselves singing at home for a virtual community carol service.
The videos will be edited together and broadcast during services led by St Paul’s, Sarisbury Green, on December 20, 24 and 27.
Worshippers from Whiteley Church are encouraged to sing carols on their doorsteps as part of the BBC radio initiative 'Doorstep Carols' - 6-7pm on December 16.
Congregations from Holy Trinity and St Columba, Fareham, have contacted those who lost loved ones during 2020 with a ‘bag of hope’.
The church was unable to welcome bereaved families for its regular November service and instead have sent each person a bag which includes a prayer card, a floating candle and a tulip bulb, all of which can be used as part of their reflections at home.
There is also a star onto which each person can write the name of their loved one, bring it to church and hang it on the Christmas tree there (or their tree at home). The churches are open from 10am-12pm on Saturday mornings.
At All Saints Church, Botley, a Nativity with life-size images of characters from the story of Jesus’s birth has been set up.
This will progress every week through Advent and Christmas, ending with the wise men at Epiphany in January.


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--Covid safe festive fun gets underway at Hampshire parks

Socially distanced festive fun has now got underway at Hampshire country parks .
Families are being invited to follow a new socially distanced Elfventure Christmas Trail and use the clues to help elves , Oak and Thistle , find the lost Christmas gifts in time for Santa 's delivery run on Christmas Eve .
The event is taking place daily at Hampshire County Council ’ s Royal Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Lepe country parks and is suitable fr children aged two and above .
Christmas events still going ahead in Southampton It is running until December 23 at Queen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Lepe and Royal Victoria with tickets costing £5 per child .
County Council Executive Member for Recreation , Heritage , Countryside and Rural Affairs , Councillor Edward Heron , said : “ As Hampshire ’ s children count down the remaining sleeps till Christmas , we know that many families are having to celebrate this year in different ways due to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Our Elfventure Christmas Trail has been specially designed with COVID-secure measures and maximum festive fun in mind , and we hope it offers families an enjoyable @ @ @ @ @ @

Families are being invited to follow a new socially distanced Elfventure Christmas Trail and use the clues to help elves, Oak and Thistle, find the lost Christmas gifts in time for Santa's delivery run on Christmas Eve.
The event is taking place daily at Hampshire County Council’s Royal Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and Lepe country parks and is suitable fr children aged two and above.
Christmas events still going ahead in Southampton
It is running until December 23 at Queen Elizabeth Country Park and until Christmas Eve at Lepe and Royal Victoria with tickets costing £5 per child.
County Council Executive Member for Recreation, Heritage, Countryside and Rural Affairs, Councillor Edward Heron, said: “As Hampshire’s children count down the remaining sleeps till Christmas, we know that many families are having to celebrate this year in different ways due to the coronavirus pandemic.
"Our Elfventure Christmas Trail has been specially designed with COVID-secure measures and maximum festive fun in mind, and we hope it offers families an enjoyable and memorable time out."


thedailyecho--2020-12-22--What you need to know about lasting powers of attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney are a way of giving someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you lack mental capacity at some time in the future , or if you no longer wish to make decisions for yourself .
A pandemic naturally forces people to think about their financial affairs and consider worst-case scenarios – and most people will consider what will happen after their death , making sure their will is written or up to date .
However , it ’ s also really important to discuss your wishes should you lose mental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to imagine being in a situation where you don ’ t have complete control of your personal affairs .
The reality is that there are many illnesses , such as cancer or heart disease , that can leave us reliant on those around us .
Statistics show that every 90 seconds someone is admitted to hospital in the UK with a brain injury .
Such an event can lead to temporary dependency on our friends and family – and , sadly , there are unexpected incidents that can impede upon our ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All you need to know about Lasting Powers of Attorney Lasting Powers of Attorney ( LPAs ) replaced the previous Enduring Power of Attorney ( EPA ) system .
EPAs set up before 1 October 2007 are still valid , whether or not they have been registered , though they must be registered when the person who gave the authority loses capacity .
Two types of Lasting Power of Attorney Regardless of the size of your estate , anyone aged 18 or over can make an LPA .
For clarity , your estate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accounts , pensions , stocks , shares , property , insurance policies and belongings .
There are two types of LPA : Lasting Powers of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs : This gives you the power to appoint a person or persons ( an ‘ Attorney ’ ) to make decisions , if appropriate , regarding your bank accounts ( i.e .
opening , closing , using your bank and building society accounts ) , claiming , receiving and using your benefits , pensions and allowances , paying your household , care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investments and indeed buying or selling your home .
Lasting Powers of Attorney for Health and Care : This enables you to appoint an Attorney to make decisions on your behalf on matters such as refusing or giving consent to health care ( including life sustaining treatment ) , staying in your own home and getting help and support from social services , moving into residential care , finding a good care home and perhaps day to day matters such as your diet , dress or daily routine .
However , your Attorneys @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not have mental capacity to make those decisions yourself - and that is a very important distinction between this LPA and the LPA for Property and Financial Affairs .
In order for the powers of either LPA to be used , they must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian ( OPG ) .
The OPG charges £82 to process an LPA application .
What happens if you don ’ t make Lasting Powers of Attorney ?
It ’ s often assumed that if a person loses their capacity to manage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member can simply step in for them .
This is not the case ( even for a spouse ) unless the proper paperwork is in place .
If there comes a time in the future when you don ’ t have the mental capacity to make a particular decision , and you haven ’ t created a valid LPA ( or have an existing EPA ) , your assets will be effectively frozen and , as you can imagine , this can lead to problems paying bills , claiming pensions , other entitlements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investments .
In this situation , it would be necessary for someone ( termed a ‘ Deputy ’ ) to be appointed by the Court of Protection to make decisions for you to the extent that you are unable to do so yourself .
There is a risk that this may not be a person you would have chosen - and it could even be someone that you don ’ t know .
Your loved ones can face long , distressing delays and expense in applying to the Court to take control and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to know the decisions you would have made yourself , if you had retained your capacity .
In addition , once appointed , the Court oversees the work of the Deputy and , once a year , he/she has to submit an annual account to show how the money of the patient has been spent .
The Court then takes an annual administration fee , which is based on a scale fee .
What can you do now ?
To avoid these issues , it is crucial to set up an LPA while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other words well before you need it .
The most important thing to remember is that you will not lose control of your personal affairs by doing so .
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 ensures that you can choose whether the LPA can be used either before , or only when , you lose mental capacity .
It ’ s a fundamental safeguarding principle of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 that any decision made on behalf of someone who lacks capacity must be made in their best interests .
Every adult , whatever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make their own decisions wherever possible .
Find out more at : parissmith.co.uk/our-people/william-hadley/

All you need to know about Lasting Powers of Attorney
Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) replaced the previous Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) system. EPAs set up before 1 October 2007 are still valid, whether or not they have been registered, though they must be registered when the person who gave the authority loses capacity.
Two types of Lasting Power of Attorney
Regardless of the size of your estate, anyone aged 18 or over can make an LPA. For clarity, your estate is essentially everything you own – bank accounts, pensions, stocks, shares, property, insurance policies and belongings.
There are two types of LPA:
Lasting Powers of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs : This gives you the power to appoint a person or persons (an ‘Attorney’) to make decisions, if appropriate, regarding your bank accounts (i.e. opening, closing, using your bank and building society accounts), claiming, receiving and using your benefits, pensions and allowances, paying your household, care and other bills, making or selling investments and indeed buying or selling your home.
Lasting Powers of Attorney for Health and Care : This enables you to appoint an Attorney to make decisions on your behalf on matters such as refusing or giving consent to health care (including life sustaining treatment), staying in your own home and getting help and support from social services, moving into residential care, finding a good care home and perhaps day to day matters such as your diet, dress or daily routine. However, your Attorneys can only make decisions if you do not have mental capacity to make those decisions yourself - and that is a very important distinction between this LPA and the LPA for Property and Financial Affairs.
In order for the powers of either LPA to be used, they must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). The OPG charges £82 to process an LPA application.
What happens if you don’t make Lasting Powers of Attorney?
It’s often assumed that if a person loses their capacity to manage their financial affairs, an immediate family member can simply step in for them. This is not the case (even for a spouse) unless the proper paperwork is in place. If there comes a time in the future when you don’t have the mental capacity to make a particular decision, and you haven’t created a valid LPA (or have an existing EPA), your assets will be effectively frozen and, as you can imagine, this can lead to problems paying bills, claiming pensions, other entitlements and making vital decisions regarding property and investments.
In this situation, it would be necessary for someone (termed a ‘Deputy’) to be appointed by the Court of Protection to make decisions for you to the extent that you are unable to do so yourself. There is a risk that this may not be a person you would have chosen - and it could even be someone that you don’t know. Your loved ones can face long, distressing delays and expense in applying to the Court to take control and the Deputy may not be best placed to know the decisions you would have made yourself, if you had retained your capacity. In addition, once appointed, the Court oversees the work of the Deputy and, once a year, he/she has to submit an annual account to show how the money of the patient has been spent. The Court then takes an annual administration fee, which is based on a scale fee.
What can you do now?
To avoid these issues, it is crucial to set up an LPA while you are still mentally capable, in other words well before you need it. The most important thing to remember is that you will not lose control of your personal affairs by doing so. The Mental Capacity Act 2005 ensures that you can choose whether the LPA can be used either before, or only when, you lose mental capacity. It’s a fundamental safeguarding principle of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 that any decision made on behalf of someone who lacks capacity must be made in their best interests. Every adult, whatever their disability, has the right to make their own decisions wherever possible.
William Hadley
LLP Partner
01962 679 771
william.hadley@parissmith.co.uk
Find out more at: parissmith.co.uk/our-people/william-hadley/


thedailyecho--2020-12-23--Controversial cycle lane in Southampton cost council £150k

A CONTROVERSIAL cycle lane in Southampton has cost more than £150,000 worth of public money , it has been revealed .
Civic chiefs have spent a total of £152,419.50 on a temporary cycle lane on The Avenue and Bassett Avenue .
The 4.9km stretch of cycle lane on The Avenue remains in place .
But as reported , the one on Bassett Avenue - between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Road roundabout - was put in place at the end of May and removed at the start of September .
The removal of the two-kilometers-long cycle lane followed an increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and councillors .
Both cycle lanes were delivered as one scheme , the council said and were funded with government grants .
The measures were among those taken in a bid to provide alternative transport while ensuring social distancing .
Southampton City Council said the trial gave the authority an insight into the `` benefits and challenges '' of cycle provision in that part of the city .
But opposition leaders said it was “ a waste of money ” .
According to the council , £115,429.68 was spent to put both cycle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was spent for the maintenance of the schemes and a total of £29070.69 was spent for the removal of the section between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Roundabout .
Royston Smith , MP for Southampton Itchen , said : “ These cycle lanes were and are a complete waste of money .
They have not , for the most part , increased the take up of cycling and as far as I am aware have encouraged not a single driver out of their car.
” Opposition councillor Steven Galton said the council spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no positive benefit either short term or long term ” .
But Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead said : '' The government gave the council money to implement these active travel schemes quickly and on an emergency basis to try and take pressure off public transport .
`` There was always an expectation that some of them would be temporary and some of them would remain .
I think it 's a good thing that the council took bold action and that many of the cycle lanes implemented have stayed . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temporary traffic regulation orders to trial emergency transport measures during the pandemic and to ensure social distancing .
The council said this allowed for adjustments to be made throughout the trials .
Cllr Steve Leggett , cabinet member for green city , added : “ We were asked by the Government to introduce these measures immediately , and to assess whether they should be amended or not using real time data , rather than modelling .
`` We were able to assess that some amendments were necessary , including in Bassett Avenue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place , it has been successful in encouraging more Southampton residents to walk and cycle . ''
Caroline Nokes MP has been approached for comment .

Civic chiefs have spent a total of £152,419.50 on a temporary cycle lane on The Avenue and Bassett Avenue.
The 4.9km stretch of cycle lane on The Avenue remains in place.
But as reported, the one on Bassett Avenue - between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Road roundabout - was put in place at the end of May and removed at the start of September.
The removal of the two-kilometers-long cycle lane followed an increase in traffic and concerns from local residents and councillors.
Both cycle lanes were delivered as one scheme, the council said and were funded with government grants.
The measures were among those taken in a bid to provide alternative transport while ensuring social distancing.
Southampton City Council said the trial gave the authority an insight into the "benefits and challenges" of cycle provision in that part of the city.
But opposition leaders said it was “a waste of money”.
According to the council, £115,429.68 was spent to put both cycle lanes in place.
An extra £7919.13 was spent for the maintenance of the schemes and a total of £29070.69 was spent for the removal of the section between Winchester Road roundabout and Chilworth Roundabout.
Royston Smith, MP for Southampton Itchen, said: “These cycle lanes were and are a complete waste of money. They have not, for the most part, increased the take up of cycling and as far as I am aware have encouraged not a single driver out of their car.”
Opposition councillor Steven Galton said the council spent “a great deal of money for no positive benefit either short term or long term”.
But Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead said:"The government gave the council money to implement these active travel schemes quickly and on an emergency basis to try and take pressure off public transport.
"There was always an expectation that some of them would be temporary and some of them would remain. I think it's a good thing that the council took bold action and that many of the cycle lanes implemented have stayed."
The authority said councils were encouraged to use temporary traffic regulation orders to trial emergency transport measures during the pandemic and to ensure social distancing.
The council said this allowed for adjustments to be made throughout the trials.
Cllr Steve Leggett, cabinet member for green city, added: “We were asked by the Government to introduce these measures immediately, and to assess whether they should be amended or not using real time data, rather than modelling.
"We were able to assess that some amendments were necessary, including in Bassett Avenue.
"Since the plan has been put in place, it has been successful in encouraging more Southampton residents to walk and cycle."
Caroline Nokes MP has been approached for comment.


thedailyecho--2020-12-23--Woman robbed on Aldermoor Road in Southampton

A WOMAN has been kicked to the floor and robbed by a man on a bicycle in Southampton .
Police are appealing for witnesses following the robbery in the Coxford area of the city .
The incident happened at around 11.20am on Monday , December 21 .
A woman in her 30s was stood at the bus stop on the junction of Aldermoor Road and Myrtle Road on her way to do some Christmas shopping when she was approached by a man on a mountain bike .
The cyclist pushed the victim over with his foot before grabbing her handbag @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the direction of the shops at the top of the hill .
He was described as a white man , `` quite '' skinny , wearing white Nike trainers , a black tracksuit with the hood up and a black face covering .
The tracksuit was described as looking `` too big '' for him .
The bike was a silver mountain bike with suspension on the front and back and it had a Fox logo on the frame of the bike .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this man in the area , or perhaps drove through the area and has Dash Cam that may have captured him .
`` Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 , quoting 44200490778 .
`` Alternatively , you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 % anonymously on 0800 555 111 , or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org . ''

Police are appealing for witnesses following the robbery in the Coxford area of the city.
The incident happened at around 11.20am on Monday, December 21.
A woman in her 30s was stood at the bus stop on the junction of Aldermoor Road and Myrtle Road on her way to do some Christmas shopping when she was approached by a man on a mountain bike.
The cyclist pushed the victim over with his foot before grabbing her handbag and cycling off down Aldermoor Road, in the direction of the shops at the top of the hill.
He was described as a white man, "quite" skinny, wearing white Nike trainers, a black tracksuit with the hood up and a black face covering.
The tracksuit was described as looking "too big" for him.
The bike was a silver mountain bike with suspension on the front and back and it had a Fox logo on the frame of the bike.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "We’re appealing for anyone who saw this man in the area, or perhaps drove through the area and has Dash Cam that may have captured him.
"Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44200490778.
"Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org."


thedailyecho--2020-12-23--Covid-19: More areas of England could move into Tier 4

MORE areas of England could be put into Tier 4 from Boxing Day .
Reports have suggested ministers will meet today , December 23 , to decide whether more parts of the country would be put under the toughest restrictions amid fears over the spread of a new mutant strain of coronavirus .
It came as France lifted its travel ban and allowed journeys from the UK to resume , but said those seeking to travel must have a negative coronavirus test result .
Genomic researchers have found the new variant , which is said to be 70 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already spread around the UK , with cases identified in Wales and Scotland .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has written to the Prime Minister to say his party would back any Government moves to tighten restrictions if that is what scientists recommended .
Sinn Fein has said an island-wide travel shutout should be introduced in Ireland to stem the spread of the new variant there .
Robert Jenrick said there is no “ immediate plan ” to widen coronavirus restrictions on Boxing Day .
But the Communities Secretary told BBC Breakfast that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review the situation and “ make a judgment ” .
He said : “ We don ’ t have an immediate plan to take action , but the number of cases is rising and the ( new coronavirus ) variant is spreading to other parts of the country , so we will see whether it ’ s necessary to do more and make sure that the tiered system is sufficiently robust for the new circumstances .
“ Because remember , the tiered system was designed before we knew the full ferocity of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to make sure it ’ s sufficiently robust to be able to withstand this and to stop cases just rising at the very worrying levels they are now in parts of the country.
” Meanwhile , NHS Test and Trace staff and the military are being deployed for the mass testing programme in Kent , where more than 2,800 HGVs were stuck on Tuesday afternoon .
France said a negative test result taken less than 72 hours before the journey would be required for those entering the country from the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ flow tests – which can give results in about 30 minutes – will be used in the testing programme , while the French authorities will be carrying out similar testing on hauliers entering the UK .
Full details of the testing programme have not yet been released , but Mr Shapps warned it could take until Christmas for congestion to be relieved near ports .
He said : “ We have managed to get all those tests to Kent , enough for all the vehicles which will want to return before Christmas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue .
“ Obviously there ’ s a physical issue of providing the test , getting the results .
A negative test allows you to leave .
“ But all of that requires operationalising and that can ’ t happen in an instant , so this will take two or three days for things to be cleared.
” He urged hauliers not to travel to Kent until further notice .
The Road Haulage Association ( RHA ) warned UK supply chains would be affected despite the mass testing programme being introduced .
An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border is opened up , a short delay in the process is going to mean huge delays in the supply chain.
” Elizabeth de Jong , policy director at business group Logistics UK , said it was “ vital ” that testing procedures are “ stood up fast to ensure drivers can be processed and get home for Christmas safely ” .
She added : “ The backlog of traffic across the region will take time to clear so hauliers should wait for further news before travelling to Kent.
” The protocol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reviewed on December 31 – but could run until January 6 , the Department for Transport ( DfT ) said .
Those who can make journeys include French and EU residents , British or third-party nationals who normally live in France or the EU , as well as some other groups .
The Transport Secretary also announced the temporary relaxation of drivers ’ hours for hauliers to help them get through UK borders safely over the coming weeks .
The Netherlands has lifted its travel restrictions on passengers from the UK , provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 72 hours of departure .

Reports have suggested ministers will meet today, December 23, to decide whether more parts of the country would be put under the toughest restrictions amid fears over the spread of a new mutant strain of coronavirus.
It came as France lifted its travel ban and allowed journeys from the UK to resume, but said those seeking to travel must have a negative coronavirus test result.
Genomic researchers have found the new variant, which is said to be 70 per cent more infectious than previous strains, has already spread around the UK, with cases identified in Wales and Scotland.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has written to the Prime Minister to say his party would back any Government moves to tighten restrictions if that is what scientists recommended.
Sinn Fein has said an island-wide travel shutout should be introduced in Ireland to stem the spread of the new variant there.
Robert Jenrick said there is no “immediate plan” to widen coronavirus restrictions on Boxing Day.
But the Communities Secretary told BBC Breakfast that the Government would be meeting today to review the situation and “make a judgment”.
He said: “We don’t have an immediate plan to take action, but the number of cases is rising and the (new coronavirus) variant is spreading to other parts of the country, so we will see whether it’s necessary to do more and make sure that the tiered system is sufficiently robust for the new circumstances.
“Because remember, the tiered system was designed before we knew the full ferocity of the new variant, and so we do have to make sure it’s sufficiently robust to be able to withstand this and to stop cases just rising at the very worrying levels they are now in parts of the country.”
Meanwhile, NHS Test and Trace staff and the military are being deployed for the mass testing programme in Kent, where more than 2,800 HGVs were stuck on Tuesday afternoon.
France said a negative test result taken less than 72 hours before the journey would be required for those entering the country from the UK.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said rapid lateral flow tests – which can give results in about 30 minutes – will be used in the testing programme, while the French authorities will be carrying out similar testing on hauliers entering the UK.
Full details of the testing programme have not yet been released, but Mr Shapps warned it could take until Christmas for congestion to be relieved near ports.
He said: “We have managed to get all those tests to Kent, enough for all the vehicles which will want to return before Christmas, so that won’t be an issue.
“Obviously there’s a physical issue of providing the test, getting the results. A negative test allows you to leave.
“But all of that requires operationalising and that can’t happen in an instant, so this will take two or three days for things to be cleared.”
He urged hauliers not to travel to Kent until further notice.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) warned UK supply chains would be affected despite the mass testing programme being introduced.
An RHA spokesman said: “Even if the border is opened up, a short delay in the process is going to mean huge delays in the supply chain.”
Elizabeth de Jong, policy director at business group Logistics UK, said it was “vital” that testing procedures are “stood up fast to ensure drivers can be processed and get home for Christmas safely”.
She added: “The backlog of traffic across the region will take time to clear so hauliers should wait for further news before travelling to Kent.”
The protocol agreed with the French government will be reviewed on December 31 – but could run until January 6, the Department for Transport (DfT) said.
Those who can make journeys include French and EU residents, British or third-party nationals who normally live in France or the EU, as well as some other groups.
The Transport Secretary also announced the temporary relaxation of drivers’ hours for hauliers to help them get through UK borders safely over the coming weeks.
The Netherlands has lifted its travel restrictions on passengers from the UK, provided they return a negative test result within 72 hours of departure.


thedailyecho--2020-12-23--Plans for new McDonald's drive-thru on M27

PLANS for a McDonald 's drive-through on the M27 have been slammed by a community leader , claiming it flies in the face of the Government 's anti-obesity message amid the coronavirus crisis .
An application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council ( TVBC ) to build the two-storey drive-through at the Rownhams East Motorway Service Area , which would generate 20 jobs .
The proposals , tabled by Roadchef Motorways Limited , could offer an extra 113 parking spaces to customers and would replace the existing McDonald 's in the service area 's main building .
Liberal Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fast-food restaurant contradicts the Government 's national campaign launched in July urging Britons to lose weight .
The campaign , unveiled as part of the Government ’ s new Obesity Strategy , encourages people to kick-start their health in a bid to reduce their risk of serious illness , including COVID-19 .
However , a spokesperson from Roadchef insisted the plans would allow them to introduce a brand new LEON restaurant in the service area 's main building , claiming it offers `` healthy fast food , super food salads , wraps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` The creation of more and easier access to fast-food outlets , such as a drive-through McDonald 's , goes against the Government ’ s strategy of encouraging healthier eating to reduce the high levels of obesity in our society .
`` This is increasingly prevalent in our young adults who are drawn towards this type of food and the impact on our health from fast-food is well documented .
`` We are all facing the challenges of Covid-19 and the huge impact it is having on our lives , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthy as we can .
A well-balanced diet will support us . ''
A spokesperson from Roadchef said : “ The Drive-Thru will replace the existing McDonald ’ s restaurant in our main building , with a menu including traditional McDonald ’ s favourites , as well as a range of salads , wraps , vegetarian options and sugar-free beverages .
`` The plans will also support our commitment to offering road users a wide choice of high street brands by allowing the introduction of a brand new LEON restaurant in the main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthy fast food , with a wide range of rice boxes , super food salads , wraps and vegan options .
“ The new plans will introduce an additional 113 parking spaces , including 9 accessible spaces , 4 for Large Good Vehicles and 24 electric vehicle charging points , helping to support the transition to green transport and bringing the total number of spaces to 267.
” This comes after plans to install a new McDonald 's drive-through at the service area were withdrawn to make some revisions to an earlier design @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to decide on the plans on Monday , February 8 2021 .

An application was submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to build the two-storey drive-through at the Rownhams East Motorway Service Area, which would generate 20 jobs.
The proposals, tabled by Roadchef Motorways Limited, could offer an extra 113 parking spaces to customers and would replace the existing McDonald's in the service area's main building.
Liberal Democrat Celia Dowden criticised the plans, believing the fast-food restaurant contradicts the Government's national campaign launched in July urging Britons to lose weight.
The campaign, unveiled as part of the Government’s new Obesity Strategy, encourages people to kick-start their health in a bid to reduce their risk of serious illness, including COVID-19.
However, a spokesperson from Roadchef insisted the plans would allow them to introduce a brand new LEON restaurant in the service area's main building, claiming it offers "healthy fast food, super food salads, wraps and vegan options".
Cllr Dowden said: "The creation of more and easier access to fast-food outlets, such as a drive-through McDonald's, goes against the Government’s strategy of encouraging healthier eating to reduce the high levels of obesity in our society.
"This is increasingly prevalent in our young adults who are drawn towards this type of food and the impact on our health from fast-food is well documented.
"We are all facing the challenges of Covid-19 and the huge impact it is having on our lives, and we need to be as strong and healthy as we can. A well-balanced diet will support us."
A spokesperson from Roadchef said: “The Drive-Thru will replace the existing McDonald’s restaurant in our main building, with a menu including traditional McDonald’s favourites, as well as a range of salads, wraps, vegetarian options and sugar-free beverages.
"The plans will also support our commitment to offering road users a wide choice of high street brands by allowing the introduction of a brand new LEON restaurant in the main service area building.
"LEON offer healthy fast food, with a wide range of rice boxes, super food salads, wraps and vegan options.
“The new plans will introduce an additional 113 parking spaces, including 9 accessible spaces, 4 for Large Good Vehicles and 24 electric vehicle charging points, helping to support the transition to green transport and bringing the total number of spaces to 267.”
This comes after plans to install a new McDonald's drive-through at the service area were withdrawn to make some revisions to an earlier design, the spokesperson confirmed.
TVBC is due to decide on the plans on Monday, February 8 2021.