thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Saints held to goalless draw after drab affair with West Ham

SAINTS were held to a second goalless draw in the space of four days after a tepid contest against West Ham .
Having failed to find the breakthrough against strugglers Fulham on Boxing Day , Saints were again blunted in attack as the Hammers earned a share of the spoils to take back to east London .
The returning Danny Ings did find the net early on for Saints , but it was ruled out for offside , while the Hammers almost nicked a winner in the final minutes with Alex McCarthy brilliantly denying Said Benrahma .
The draw for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of five consecutive defeats in previous meetings with West Ham , as they end an impressive 2020 in the top half of the Premier League table .
Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl was absent from the sidelines and forced to manage the side from home via a video link as he self-isolated following a member of his household testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this week .
Assistant boss Richard Kitzbichler along with the rest of the coaching staff were on hand from the dugout , keeping in contact with Hasenhuttl .
The starting XI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draw at Fulham .
Ings returned from a hamstring injury to start while Oriol Romeu was back from a one-match suspension and Moussa Djenepo recalled .
Shane Long , Ibrahima Diallo and Stuart Armstrong all dropped to the bench .
West Ham made five changes from their weekend draw with Brighton with Andriy Yarmolenko and Manuel Lanzini among the players recalled .
The game at St Mary ’ s was once again behind closed doors due to a tightening of coronavirus restrictions in Southampton .
Saints , seeking a first win in four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Having dominated possession in the early stages , the hosts had the ball in the net on six minutes after Che Adams collected a long ball forward and teed up Ings .
The striker wriggled free in the box and fired home , but the goal was disallowed for an offside earlier in the move .
That proved to be the end of the excitement for much of the rest of the half .
Theo Walcott fired wide from 20 yards while at the other end two West Ham free-kicks looked dangerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dawson , who inadvertently kicked Adams in the head as he looked to volley in , while Sebastien Haller could not take an Aaron Cresswell set piece into his stride in the box .
Walcott teed up Ings for Saints , but the flag again went up after the former Liverpool frontman ’ s flick was saved by Lukasz Fabianski .
The final openings of the half fell the way of West Ham .
McCarthy was called into action to save from a close-range Ryan Fredericks header after good work down the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over with the final kick of a cagey first half .
West Ham started the second half the better of the two sides with Yarmolenko looking a threat and moments after Romeu fired over the bar , the hosts made their first switch of the evening with Long replacing Adams up front .
But it was neither of the new men to the field who carved out the next opening with Walcott , finding space in the centre of the pitch , letting fly from more than 25 yards and calling former Arsenal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop .
Walcott caused problems again with 70 minutes on the clock , driving into the box before the loose ball fell kindly for Kyle Walker-Peters , whose low drive was comfortable for Fabianski .
Tomas Soucek , who netted for the Hammers at the weekend , had his first glimpse of goal of the contest moments later , connecting with a Declan Rice free-kick but his header into the ground did not unduly trouble McCarthy .
The Czech ace found space again a couple of minutes later .
After West Ham outnumbered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soucek in the centre of the box was vitally cut out by Ryan Bertrand .
Both managers turned to their benches as the game entered its final 15 minutes with attacking options Armstrong and Michail Antonio introduced .
And the Hammers nearly got the goal they craved as Benrahma found space in the box , but McCarthy spread himself to produce a huge save from six yards to preserve his clean sheet and earn his side a point .

Having failed to find the breakthrough against strugglers Fulham on Boxing Day, Saints were again blunted in attack as the Hammers earned a share of the spoils to take back to east London.
The returning Danny Ings did find the net early on for Saints, but it was ruled out for offside, while the Hammers almost nicked a winner in the final minutes with Alex McCarthy brilliantly denying Said Benrahma.
The draw for Saints does at least halt a run of five consecutive defeats in previous meetings with West Ham, as they end an impressive 2020 in the top half of the Premier League table.
Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl was absent from the sidelines and forced to manage the side from home via a video link as he self-isolated following a member of his household testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.
Assistant boss Richard Kitzbichler along with the rest of the coaching staff were on hand from the dugout, keeping in contact with Hasenhuttl.
The starting XI showed three changes from the Boxing Day draw at Fulham. Ings returned from a hamstring injury to start while Oriol Romeu was back from a one-match suspension and Moussa Djenepo recalled. Shane Long, Ibrahima Diallo and Stuart Armstrong all dropped to the bench.
West Ham made five changes from their weekend draw with Brighton with Andriy Yarmolenko and Manuel Lanzini among the players recalled.
The game at St Mary’s was once again behind closed doors due to a tightening of coronavirus restrictions in Southampton.
Saints, seeking a first win in four, got off to a bright start. Having dominated possession in the early stages, the hosts had the ball in the net on six minutes after Che Adams collected a long ball forward and teed up Ings. The striker wriggled free in the box and fired home, but the goal was disallowed for an offside earlier in the move.
That proved to be the end of the excitement for much of the rest of the half.
Theo Walcott fired wide from 20 yards while at the other end two West Ham free-kicks looked dangerous. The first fell to defender Craig Dawson, who inadvertently kicked Adams in the head as he looked to volley in, while Sebastien Haller could not take an Aaron Cresswell set piece into his stride in the box.
Walcott teed up Ings for Saints, but the flag again went up after the former Liverpool frontman’s flick was saved by Lukasz Fabianski.
The final openings of the half fell the way of West Ham. McCarthy was called into action to save from a close-range Ryan Fredericks header after good work down the right from the Hammers, before Lanzini fired over with the final kick of a cagey first half.
West Ham started the second half the better of the two sides with Yarmolenko looking a threat and moments after Romeu fired over the bar, the hosts made their first switch of the evening with Long replacing Adams up front.
David Moyes instantly responded, bringing on Benrahma.
But it was neither of the new men to the field who carved out the next opening with Walcott, finding space in the centre of the pitch, letting fly from more than 25 yards and calling former Arsenal team-mate Fabianski into a smart, low stop.
Walcott caused problems again with 70 minutes on the clock, driving into the box before the loose ball fell kindly for Kyle Walker-Peters, whose low drive was comfortable for Fabianski.
Tomas Soucek, who netted for the Hammers at the weekend, had his first glimpse of goal of the contest moments later, connecting with a Declan Rice free-kick but his header into the ground did not unduly trouble McCarthy.
The Czech ace found space again a couple of minutes later. After West Ham outnumbered Saints in attack, the ball to Soucek in the centre of the box was vitally cut out by Ryan Bertrand.
Both managers turned to their benches as the game entered its final 15 minutes with attacking options Armstrong and Michail Antonio introduced.
And the Hammers nearly got the goal they craved as Benrahma found space in the box, but McCarthy spread himself to produce a huge save from six yards to preserve his clean sheet and earn his side a point.
Saints: McCarthy; Walker-Peters, Bednarek, Stephens, Bertrand; Ward-Prowse, Romeu; Walcott, Djenepo (Armstrong, 78); Adams (Long, 58), Ings.
Unused subs: Valery, Vokins, Salisu, Smallbone, Diallo, Obafemi, Forster (g/k).
Booked: Bertrand, Djenepo, Walker-Peters.
West Ham: Fabianski; Fredericks, Dawson, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Rice, Soucek; Lanzini (Benrahma, 60), Fornals, Yarmolenko (Bowen, 72); Haller (Antonio, 77).
Unused subs: Diop, Johnson, Coufal, Noble, Snodgrass, Randolph (g/k).
Booked: Yarmolenko.
Referee: Andy Madley.
VAR: Andre Marriner.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Spartans Gym in Tier 4 Southampton 'refuses to close'

A SOUTHAMPTON gym facing legal action for allegedly breaching lockdown rules appears to be flouting covid restrictions again .
Based in Millbank Street in the Northam part of the city , Spartans is reported to have opened during the November lockdown .
Despite the city being classed as Tier 4 , gym-goers could be seen walking in and out of Spartans Gym earlier today .
In November , Josh Gosling appeared at Southampton Magistrates ’ Court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown .
He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ England .
Gosling , of Tickner Close , Botley , previously represented himself and protested his innocence .
He argued he is a passionate gym member and is neither the manager or owner of Spartans .
The council has confirmed it is aware the gym is open .
Councillor Jacqui Rayment , Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Customer and Organisation said : `` The Council is working with the police to monitor activity at business premises , including Spartan ’ s gym .
`` The Council has initiated a prosecution for breaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s gym earlier in the year .
While in tier 4 and with case numbers rising , we ask the public to think about and to respect the restrictions in place . ''
The Daily Echo has contacted Spartans and Hampshire Police for comment .

Based in Millbank Street in the Northam part of the city, Spartans is reported to have opened during the November lockdown.
Despite the city being classed as Tier 4, gym-goers could be seen walking in and out of Spartans Gym earlier today.
In November, Josh Gosling appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown.
He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable instruction given by a relevant person in England.
Gosling, of Tickner Close, Botley, previously represented himself and protested his innocence.
He argued he is a passionate gym member and is neither the manager or owner of Spartans.
The council has confirmed it is aware the gym is open.
Councillor Jacqui Rayment, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Customer and Organisation said: "The Council is working with the police to monitor activity at business premises, including Spartan’s gym.
"The Council has initiated a prosecution for breaches of the restrictions which occurred at Spartan’s gym earlier in the year. While in tier 4 and with case numbers rising, we ask the public to think about and to respect the restrictions in place."
The Daily Echo has contacted Spartans and Hampshire Police for comment.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--COVID outbreak at Southampton primary school

All staff and pupils at a Southampton primary school have been told to isolate following a rise in COVID-19 cases before the Christmas break .
A concerned parent provided a letter to The Daily Echo sent to parents of children at Oakwood Primary School on Sandpiper Road on December 22 .
In the letter headteacher Maria Whitmarsh said further cases had been confirmed that day and `` any member of the school community who has been in school in the week commencing [ Dec ] 14th '' should isolate .
The letter read : `` Unfortunately , we have continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in both staff and pupils across the school over the last few days . ''
`` Any member of the school community who has been in school in the week commencing the 14th , should self-isolate for 10 days from the last date they were in school . ''
In the letter Ms Whitmarsh said she had been in regular contact with Public Health England .
It is not yet known how many members of faculty and pupils have tested positive .
The Daily Echo has contacted Oakwood Primary School for comment .

A concerned parent provided a letter to The Daily Echo sent to parents of children at Oakwood Primary School on Sandpiper Road on December 22.
In the letter headteacher Maria Whitmarsh said further cases had been confirmed that day and "any member of the school community who has been in school in the week commencing [Dec] 14th" should isolate.
The letter read: "Unfortunately, we have continued to see a rise in positive cases in both staff and pupils across the school over the last few days."
"Any member of the school community who has been in school in the week commencing the 14th, should self-isolate for 10 days from the last date they were in school."
In the letter Ms Whitmarsh said she had been in regular contact with Public Health England.
It is not yet known how many members of faculty and pupils have tested positive.
The Daily Echo has contacted Oakwood Primary School for comment.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Coronavirus: More than 1,000 positive cases across Hampshire

MORE than 1,000 new coronavirus cases have been recorded across Hampshire in the last 24 hours .
Public Health England @ @ @ @ @ the Government website at 4.50pm today ( December 29 ) - show that 1,110 more @ @ @ @ @ the virus in a 24 hour period .
The health body is now including Pillar @ @ @ @ @ out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests , which are analysed in NHS @ @ @ @ @ made up the first stage of the Government 's mass testing programme .
Below are @ @ @ @ @ authority in the 24 hours to 4.50pm on December 29 : • Basingstoke and Deane @ @ @ @ @ total since start of pandemic )

Public Health England figures - as recorded on the Government website at 4.50pm today (December 29) - show that 1,110 more people have tested positive for the virus in a 24 hour period.
The health body is now including Pillar 2 tests – those carried out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests, which are analysed in NHS or PHE laboratories and which made up the first stage of the Government's mass testing programme.
Below are the confirmed cases by local authority in the 24 hours to 4.50pm on December 29:


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Gritters hit Southampton roads as temperatures set to plummet

GRITTERS are set to hit the roads tonight as temperatures begin to plummet .
Gritters are set to hit the @ @ @ @ @ treating `` priority routes '' through the city .
It comes as the Met Office @ @ @ @ @ snow and ice across the city and Hampshire .
Temperatures have plunged across the country @ @ @ @ @ close to freezing in the city on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning , with a @ @ @ @ @ of -4C .
Snow is not currently forecast to fall in the city but the @ @ @ @ @ from 10am on Wednesday until 6am on Thursday and the Met Office says this could @ @ @ @ @ power cuts , or injuries from people slipping on icy surfaces .

Southampton City Council has warned motorists of dropping temperatures overnight.
Gritters are set to hit the roads at 6pm tonight, treating "priority routes" through the city.
Road Salting Update 29/12/2020.
With temperatures dropping overnight, our gritters will be out treating our priority routes from 18:00.
For more information, https://t.co/E0rOfj9iD5 — Southampton Travel (@scchighways) December 29, 2020
It comes as the Met Office has issued a warning for snow and ice across the city and Hampshire.
Temperatures have plunged across the country and are expected to drop close to freezing in the city on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, with a "feels like" temperature of -4C.
Snow is not currently forecast to fall in the city but the weather warning is in place from 10am on Wednesday until 6am on Thursday and the Met Office says this could cause disruption to travel, power cuts, or injuries from people slipping on icy surfaces.
Read more here.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Man attacked and robbed by three men in Southampton street

A MAN has suffered head injuries after he was attacked and robbed in Southampton .
The incident took place some time between 3.30pm and 4pm on Christmas Eve .
A man in his 40s was walking home from the shops on a footpath at the top of Rockstone Lane , near to the YMCA .
Three men approached the man and attacked him , before stealing his mobile phone .
The trio are then said to have ran off past the YMCA .
The victim suffered head injuries and a cut above his eyebrow .
Police are now appealing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man is described as being white , around 30-years-old and approximately 5ft 6ins tall .
He was wearing a black jacket , dark jeans and a dark coloured face covering .
The second man is descried as being white , around 30 years old , approximately 5ft 8ins tall .
He was wearing a black jacked and a dark coloured face covering .
The third man is described as being white , around 30 years old and approximately 5ft 8ins tall .
He was wearing a camouflage jacket and dark trousers .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you in the area at the time of the incident ?
Did you witness anything ?
Do you recognise any of the descriptions of the men involved ?
`` Perhaps you were driving in the area and have dash-cam footage ?
`` If you have any information about this incident , please call us on 101 quoting 44200494929 .
`` Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . ''

The incident took place some time between 3.30pm and 4pm on Christmas Eve.
A man in his 40s was walking home from the shops on a footpath at the top of Rockstone Lane, near to the YMCA.
Three men approached the man and attacked him, before stealing his mobile phone.
The trio are then said to have ran off past the YMCA.
The victim suffered head injuries and a cut above his eyebrow.
Police are now appealing to witnesses to the robbery.
The first man is described as being white, around 30-years-old and approximately 5ft 6ins tall.
He was wearing a black jacket, dark jeans and a dark coloured face covering.
The second man is descried as being white, around 30 years old, approximately 5ft 8ins tall.
He was wearing a black jacked and a dark coloured face covering.
The third man is described as being white, around 30 years old and approximately 5ft 8ins tall.
He was wearing a camouflage jacket and dark trousers.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: "Were you in the area at the time of the incident? Did you witness anything? Do you recognise any of the descriptions of the men involved?
"Perhaps you were driving in the area and have dash-cam footage?
"If you have any information about this incident, please call us on 101 quoting 44200494929.
"Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Fire crews from five stations called to blaze in Lymington

FIRE crews from five different stations have been called to a blaze at a pub .
The fire was said @ @ @ @ @ of an outbuilding at a pub in Chequers Green , Lymington .
Hampshire Fire and @ @ @ @ @ at about 5pm today .
Crews from Lymington , Brockenhurst , Beaulieu , New Milton @ @ @ @ @ .
They used 18 breathing apparatus , two hose reels and one main water jet @ @ @ @ @ The fire was put out and the crews stepped down just after 8pm .

The fire was said to be in the roof of an outbuilding at a pub in Chequers Green, Lymington.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service recieved the call at about 5pm today.
Crews from Lymington, Brockenhurst, Beaulieu, New Milton and Eastleigh were in attendance.
They used 18 breathing apparatus, two hose reels and one main water jet to fight the blaze.
The fire was put out and the crews stepped down just after 8pm.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Tributes paid to Hampshire councillor, Keith Evans

TRIBUTES have been paid after the death of a `` dedicated '' councillor .
Hampshire County Councillor and Fareham Borough Councillor , Keith Evans passed away on Sunday .
He served as ward councillor for Locks heath and previously , Sarisbury for more than three decades and was first elected to Hampshire County Council on May 5 , 2005 to serve Fareham Warsash division .
He held the position continuously until he passed away and also served the county council on a number of committees .
These included : Chairman of the Audit Committee and the River Hamble Harbour Board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Policy and Resources Select Committee and Employment in Hampshire County Council Committee .
Leader of Hampshire County Council , Councillor Keith Mans has now paid tribute to the longstanding councillor .
He said “ On behalf of Hampshire County Council , I wish to express my deep-felt sadness over the death of County Councillor Keith Evans .
“ Keith made a significant contribution to the County Council , for which we will always be grateful .
`` He was highly regarded by peers and officers , alike – and had the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention through speaking softly and calmly .
`` He will be missed by us all - and we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends.
” Councillor Evans ’ seat will remain vacant until the County Council elections in May as there is no requirement for a by-election due to the Coronavirus Act .
Flags at Hampshire County Council and the Civic Offices in Fareham have been flying at half-mast in honour of Councillor Evans .
Councillor , Seán Woodward , Leader of Fareham Borough Council , said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will miss Keith terribly .
`` We have worked together for the past three decades and he has been a valued member of the Executive and indeed a personal friend .
`` My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children at this very difficult time . ''

Hampshire County Councillor and Fareham Borough Councillor, Keith Evans passed away on Sunday.
He served as ward councillor for Locks heath and previously, Sarisbury for more than three decades and was first elected to Hampshire County Council on May 5, 2005 to serve Fareham Warsash division.
He held the position continuously until he passed away and also served the county council on a number of committees.
These included: Chairman of the Audit Committee and the River Hamble Harbour Board, Vice-Chairman of the Conduct Advisory Panel, the Policy and Resources Select Committee and Employment in Hampshire County Council Committee.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Keith Mans has now paid tribute to the longstanding councillor.
He said “On behalf of Hampshire County Council, I wish to express my deep-felt sadness over the death of County Councillor Keith Evans.
“Keith made a significant contribution to the County Council, for which we will always be grateful. "He was highly regarded by peers and officers, alike – and had the rare gift of commanding complete respect and attention through speaking softly and calmly.
"He will be missed by us all - and we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends.”
Councillor Evans’ seat will remain vacant until the County Council elections in May as there is no requirement for a by-election due to the Coronavirus Act.
Flags at Hampshire County Council and the Civic Offices in Fareham have been flying at half-mast in honour of Councillor Evans.
Councillor, Seán Woodward, Leader of Fareham Borough Council, said: "I am extremely saddened by this news and will miss Keith terribly.
"We have worked together for the past three decades and he has been a valued member of the Executive and indeed a personal friend.
"My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children at this very difficult time."


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Coronavirus: 12 more deaths recorded across Hampshire

TWELVE further coronavirus deaths have been recorded across the county in the last 24 hours .
Figures published by NHS @ @ @ @ @ December 29 ) reveal that 12 more people have died with coronavirus .
Across the @ @ @ @ @ people have died with Covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March .
@ @ @ @ @ have been recorded as having died at Portsmouth Hospitals Trust in the last 24 hours @ @ @ @ @ 388 .
One further death has been recorded at Hampshire Hospitals Trust , bringing the @ @ @ @ @ since the start of the pandemic .
Two people have died at University Hospital Southampton @ @ @ @ @ 240 .
No other deaths were recorded across the county 's other Trusts .
At @ @ @ @ @ there have been 23 deaths since the start of the pandemic and four deaths at @ @ @ @

Figures published by NHS England at 2pm today (December 29) reveal that 12 more people have died with coronavirus.
Across the whole of Hampshire, 895 people have died with Covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March.
Nine people suffering with coronavirus have been recorded as having died at Portsmouth Hospitals Trust in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 388.
One further death has been recorded at Hampshire Hospitals Trust, bringing the total up to 240 deaths since the start of the pandemic.
Two people have died at University Hospital Southampton, bringing the total to 240.
No other deaths were recorded across the county's other Trusts.
At Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust there have been 23 deaths since the start of the pandemic and four deaths at Solent NHS Trust.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Do you think Southampton schools should reopen?

SCHOOLS across Southampton and Hampshire are set to reopen in January .
The Government is “ still planning for a @ @ @ @ @ after Christmas but is keeping the plan under constant review , Downing Street has said @ @ @ @ @ s official spokesman has said : “ We ’ re still planning for a staggered @ @ @ @ @ are working to ensure testing is in place .
“ As we have said throughout @ @ @ @ @ keep all measures under constant review.
” Meanwhile , the Chair of the Education Select @ @ @ @ @ has called for the Government to “ weigh up ” the risks of Covid-19 to @ @ @ @ @ risk closing schools poses to their wellbeing .
The Daily Echo is asking readers what @ @ @

The Government is “still planning for a staggered opening of schools” after Christmas but is keeping the plan under constant review, Downing Street has said.
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman has said: “We’re still planning for a staggered opening of schools and we are working to ensure testing is in place.
“As we have said throughout the pandemic, we obviously keep all measures under constant review.”
Meanwhile, the Chair of the Education Select Committee, Robert Halfon, has called for the Government to “weigh up” the risks of Covid-19 to children, compared to the risk closing schools poses to their wellbeing.
The Daily Echo is asking readers what they think.
Please answer our ballot.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Volunteers test for Covid at Portsmouth International Port

TEAMS of volunteers are now running a Covid-19 testing station at an international port .
Current restrictions require that those @ @ @ @ @ a negative COVID test , which has caused a huge number of lorries to be @ @ @ @ @ testing is now underway for pre-booked freight drivers on their way to France from Portsmouth @ @ @ @ @ Hampshire Search and Rescue have been running a testing station at the port since Boxing @ @ @ @ @ been covering all sailings since it opened in an effort to reduce the numbers waiting @ @ @ @ @ organisation was asked on Christmas Eve if any assistance could be provided and within a @ @ @ @ @ request over 50 members agreed to help .
Their roles include assisting the drivers in @ @ @ @ @ taking swabs and testing the swabs .
PPE is worn by all the team and @ @ @ @ @ sacks .
The volunteers will be running the testing station up until New Years Eve @ @ @ @ @ they will have covered 17 sailings and tested up to 1250 drivers .

Current restrictions require that those entering France have proof of a negative COVID test, which has caused a huge number of lorries to be held back.
However, testing is now underway for pre-booked freight drivers on their way to France from Portsmouth International Port.
Teams from Hampshire Search and Rescue have been running a testing station at the port since Boxing Day.
The station has been covering all sailings since it opened in an effort to reduce the numbers waiting to travel.
The voluntary organisation was asked on Christmas Eve if any assistance could be provided and within a few hours of sending the request over 50 members agreed to help.
Their roles include assisting the drivers in completing their registration cards, taking swabs and testing the swabs.
PPE is worn by all the team and disposed of in clinical waste sacks.
The volunteers will be running the testing station up until New Years Eve, at which point, they will have covered 17 sailings and tested up to 1250 drivers.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Premier League: Saints v West Ham - as it happened

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thedailyecho--2020-12-29--Westquay Saints Store set to close as online orders increase

A SOUTHAMPTON Football Club store is set to close as it focuses more resources on online orders .
The club has taken the decision to close the Saints Store at Westquay from January 31 .
This is said to be a part of the ongoing improvements to the clubs retail offering .
• Hasenhuttl absent for Saints due to COVID-19 in his household The news comes after a complete overhaul of Southampton FC 's online retail store at the start of this year .
The club claimed the change `` helped to better serve the ever increasing number of supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and products online rather than in store '' .
With the percentage of transactions completed online vs in store expected to continue to rise , it has been decided that it is no longer viable to operate two physical stores within a one-mile radius of each other .
The club says this move will `` allow the club to focus even more resource on fulfilling its online orders '' .
Supporters can still shop in person at the Stadium Store at St Mary ’ s once tier restrictions allow .
If restrictions change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a clearance event will take place at the store before it shuts its doors for the final time .

The club has taken the decision to close the Saints Store at Westquay from January 31.
This is said to be a part of the ongoing improvements to the clubs retail offering.
The news comes after a complete overhaul of Southampton FC's online retail store at the start of this year.
The club claimed the change "helped to better serve the ever increasing number of supporters who wish to purchase their Saints merchandise and products online rather than in store".
With the percentage of transactions completed online vs in store expected to continue to rise, it has been decided that it is no longer viable to operate two physical stores within a one-mile radius of each other.
The club says this move will "allow the club to focus even more resource on fulfilling its online orders".
Supporters can still shop in person at the Stadium Store at St Mary’s once tier restrictions allow.
If restrictions change between now and the closing date, a clearance event will take place at the store before it shuts its doors for the final time.


thedailyecho--2020-12-29--What would Tier 5 rules look like?

What would Tier 5 rules look like?

CORONAVIRUS infection rates continue to climb and with a tier review expected tomorrow , many are wondering if there will be a new Tier 5 introduced .
Government scientists have reportedly told Boris Johnson that stricter measures are needed to stop the virus from spiralling out of control .
A review which will decide whether more areas will be moved into the harshest tier is expected tomorrow , December 30 , as the new highly infectious variant spreads across the UK .
More than six million people in east and south-east England went into the highest level of restrictions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people .
The tier review will consider the surge in hospital admissions and infection rates .
There are currently more people in hospital with the virus than during the first wave peak in April and infection hit a new high with 41,385 cases confirmed yesterday , December 28 .
So what would the tougher measure entail ?
There is no suggestion stricter measure would be labelled `` Tier 5 '' , but there are calls for tougher restrictions than the current Tier 4 .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove has not ruled out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 whilst the PM has not ruled out a third national lockdown .
Current Tier 4 restrictions require non-essential shops to close , along with pubs , bars and restaurants .
Leisure and entertainment venues must also close their doors , but schools remain open .
You can only meet one person , not from your household or bubble , outside in a public place such as a park .
If stricter measures were introduced , they may take similar shape to the first lockdown back in March .
Under the first lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable people were forced to “ shield ” and people were unable to meet anyone from another household , even for a walk around the park .
Travelling to holiday homes or second homes was banned , hotels were closed and even playgrounds were shut .
You were only permitted to leave your home for specific reasons , such as exercise that was limited to one hour a day per person .
All of these past restrictions may be reconsidered to curb the rise in infections .
However , Michael Gove has insisted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to school over reducing the infection levels .
The next tier review will be on December 30 and it will determine if we will enter 2021 in another lockdown .

Government scientists have reportedly told Boris Johnson that stricter measures are needed to stop the virus from spiralling out of control.
A review which will decide whether more areas will be moved into the harshest tier is expected tomorrow, December 30, as the new highly infectious variant spreads across the UK.
More than six million people in east and south-east England went into the highest level of restrictions on Saturday, which now affects 24 million people.
The tier review will consider the surge in hospital admissions and infection rates.
There are currently more people in hospital with the virus than during the first wave peak in April and infection hit a new high with 41,385 cases confirmed yesterday, December 28.
So what would the tougher measure entail?
There is no suggestion stricter measure would be labelled "Tier 5", but there are calls for tougher restrictions than the current Tier 4.
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove has not ruled out the whole country being moved into Tier 4 whilst the PM has not ruled out a third national lockdown.
Current Tier 4 restrictions require non-essential shops to close, along with pubs, bars and restaurants.
Leisure and entertainment venues must also close their doors, but schools remain open.
You can only meet one person, not from your household or bubble, outside in a public place such as a park.
If stricter measures were introduced, they may take similar shape to the first lockdown back in March.
Under the first lockdown, schools were shut, elderly and vulnerable people were forced to “shield” and people were unable to meet anyone from another household, even for a walk around the park.
Travelling to holiday homes or second homes was banned, hotels were closed and even playgrounds were shut.
You were only permitted to leave your home for specific reasons, such as exercise that was limited to one hour a day per person.
All of these past restrictions may be reconsidered to curb the rise in infections.
However, Michael Gove has insisted that the government is prioritising children returning to school over reducing the infection levels.
The next tier review will be on December 30 and it will determine if we will enter 2021 in another lockdown.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Man killed by lorry on M27

Man killed by lorry on M27

A MAN who tried to walk across a Hampshire motorway has been killed after he was hit by a lorry .
Police are appealing for witnesses following the fatal collision on the M27 yesterday .
Officers were called at 7.37pm last night to reports of a collision involving a brown Peugeot car and the central reservation of the M27 between junction 8 and junction 9 .
The driver of the Peugeot , a 41-year-old man , is then believed to have exited his car and walk across the westbound carriageway where he was involved in a collision with a Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pronounced dead at the scene .
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said : `` Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision are ongoing at this time and the M27 has been fully reopened .
`` We are keen to speak to any motorists who were driving along this stretch of the M27 at around the time of the incidents and may have seen anything or has dash cam footage .
`` Anyone with information about this incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , quoting 44200499198 . ''
Part of the M27 was closed around 12 hours , and reopened at 7.10am this morning .

Police are appealing for witnesses following the fatal collision on the M27 yesterday.
Officers were called at 7.37pm last night to reports of a collision involving a brown Peugeot car and the central reservation of the M27 between junction 8 and junction 9.
The driver of the Peugeot, a 41-year-old man, is then believed to have exited his car and walk across the westbound carriageway where he was involved in a collision with a Royal Mail lorry.
The 41-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
The lorry driver was uninjured.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision are ongoing at this time and the M27 has been fully reopened.
"We are keen to speak to any motorists who were driving along this stretch of the M27 at around the time of the incidents and may have seen anything or has dash cam footage.
"Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call us on 101, quoting 44200499198."
Part of the M27 was closed around 12 hours, and reopened at 7.10am this morning.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Fire near Chequers Inn in Lymington

Fire near Chequers Inn in Lymington

EMERGENCY services rushed to a fire at a Hampshire pub last night .
Five fire crews arrived at an outbuilding @ @ @ @ @ in Lymington at 5.01pm last night .
Crews from Lymington , Brockenhurst , Beaulieu , @ @ @ @ @ in attendance .
• Fire crews from five stations called to blaze in outbuilding roof @ @ @ @ @ used 18 breathing apparatus , two hose reels and one main water jet to fight @ @ @ @ @ was put out and the crews stepped down just after 8pm .

Five fire crews arrived at an outbuilding next to the Chequers Inn in Lymington at 5.01pm last night.
Crews from Lymington, Brockenhurst, Beaulieu, New Milton and Eastleigh were in attendance.
They used 18 breathing apparatus, two hose reels and one main water jet to fight the blaze.
The fire was put out and the crews stepped down just after 8pm.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--LIVE: Updates as Covid Tier announcement due this afternoon


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--University Hospital Southampton opens Covid-19 vaccine hub

A SOUTHAMPTON hospital has become the latest hub to begin administering Covid-19 vaccinations .
The dedicated vaccination hub at University Hospital Southampton ( UHS ) opened yesterday after the vaccine was delivered to the Trust .
This hospital is now able to play its part in one of the biggest immunisation programmes in the nations history , joining a network of GP practices and community locations already in operation .
People aged 80 and over , care home workers , and healthcare workers who are at higher risk , can now be vaccinated at the hub .
UHS interim chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ proud ” to administer the vaccine to the most vulnerable in the community and thanked those who have enabled the hospital to get to this point .
“ We are all too aware of the challenge that lies ahead of the NHS , and so having the opportunity to join the national vaccination programme is hugely welcomed.
” he said .
Among the first to receive the vaccination was Dr Sanjay Gupta , clinical lead for intensive care at UHS .
He said : “ It is a feeling of relief that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine at UHS .
“ Certainly for staff on the frontline it means they will feel better protected .
“ We are hugely confident in the vaccine and now we are able to play our part in the vaccination programme.
” The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is typically delivered by an injection in the shoulder .
There is a complex logistical challenge however to deliver it from the manufacturers to patients .
The vaccine needs to be stored at -70C before being thawed out and can only be moved four times within that cold chain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ James Allen , led the project team and oversaw the first vaccinations being delivered at UHS .
He said : “ This has been a huge undertaking for the Trust to be able to start our vaccination programme today and a testament to the hard work of the entire project team and those who have answered the call to help deliver the vaccinations .
”

The dedicated vaccination hub at University Hospital Southampton (UHS) opened yesterday after the vaccine was delivered to the Trust.
This hospital is now able to play its part in one of the biggest immunisation programmes in the nations history, joining a network of GP practices and community locations already in operation.
People aged 80 and over, care home workers, and healthcare workers who are at higher risk, can now be vaccinated at the hub.
UHS interim chief executive David French said the trust is “proud” to administer the vaccine to the most vulnerable in the community and thanked those who have enabled the hospital to get to this point.
“We are all too aware of the challenge that lies ahead of the NHS, and so having the opportunity to join the national vaccination programme is hugely welcomed.” he said.
Among the first to receive the vaccination was Dr Sanjay Gupta, clinical lead for intensive care at UHS.
He said: “It is a feeling of relief that we are now able to deliver the vaccine at UHS.
“Certainly for staff on the frontline it means they will feel better protected.
“We are hugely confident in the vaccine and now we are able to play our part in the vaccination programme.”
The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is typically delivered by an injection in the shoulder.
There is a complex logistical challenge however to deliver it from the manufacturers to patients.
The vaccine needs to be stored at -70C before being thawed out and can only be moved four times within that cold chain ahead of use.
Chief pharmacist, James Allen, led the project team and oversaw the first vaccinations being delivered at UHS.
He said: “This has been a huge undertaking for the Trust to be able to start our vaccination programme today and a testament to the hard work of the entire project team and those who have answered the call to help deliver the vaccinations.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--COVID: Gov to announce tougher restrictions for English area

More areas in England will be placed under the country ’ s toughest coronavirus restrictions , Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to tell the Commons on Wednesday .
Pressure mounted on the Government to act as hospitals across England warned of increasing strains on services due to Covid-19 patient numbers , which have reached their highest levels during the pandemic , while 51,135 further cases and 414 deaths were reported on Tuesday .
Local authorities in Essex have declared a “ major incident ” as the number of coronavirus cases threatens to overwhelm health services in the county .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals including the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel and Queen ’ s Hospital in Romford , both in east London , and Queen Elizabeth Hospital , Birmingham , om Tuesday , and a junior doctor in the capital said his his hospital was “ aggressively overstretched ” by Covid-19 patients .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson chaired a meeting of the Government ’ s Covid-19 Operations committee on Tuesday evening , when changes to the tier system were discussed .
With case rates rising in all regions of England , as well as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any review is likely to involve areas moving up a tier rather than down .
Areas that may be moved from Tier 3 to Tier 4 due to increasing case rates include parts of the East Midlands , such as Northamptonshire and Leicestershire , as well as all areas of the West Midlands metropolitan county .
Hartlepool in north-east England , along with a handful of areas in Lancashire – Blackburn with Darwen , Burnley , Pendle and Ribble Valley – could also be upgraded from Tier 3 to 4 .
The Times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imposing the country ’ s toughest measures on parts of the south west and Cumbria .
Saffron Cordery , deputy chief executive of NHS Providers , warned “ options were narrowing ” and that moving areas into the highest tier was necessary .
“ Pressures on the NHS in some parts of the country are rising at an unsustainable rate , ” she said “ Thankfully , trusts in other areas have been helping out .
But with the virus spreading fast alongside mounting winter pressures , the options are narrowing .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak .
The Covid-19 tier review offers an opportunity to do that .
“ It will require difficult decisions , moving millions more people to the highest level .
“ The Government must act with boldness , speed and clarity in curbing the threat of Covid-19.
” Figures from NHS England showed there were 21,787 patients in NHS hospitals in England as of 8am on Tuesday , compared with 20,426 on Monday , and 18,974 at the first wave peak on April 12 .
Five of the seven NHS regions in England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 hospital patients : Eastern England , London , the Midlands , south-east England and south-west England .
The other two regions , north-east and north-west England , remain below peak levels that were set in mid-November .
Meanwhile the number of further lab-confirmed cases recorded in a single day in the UK hit a new record on Tuesday , rising above 50,000 for the first time , to 53,135 .
It is not possible to make direct comparisons with the level of infection during the first wave of the virus , because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK in May , but it has been estimated there may have been as many 100,000 cases a day at the peak in late March and early April .
The Government said a further 414 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Tuesday , bringing the UK total to 71,567 .
Dr Susan Hopkins , senior medical adviser for Public Health England , said the “ unprecedented levels ” of Covid-19 infection across the UK was of “ extreme concern ” .
More than six million people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the highest level of restrictions on Saturday , meaning 24 million – 43 % of the population – are now affected .

Pressure mounted on the Government to act as hospitals across England warned of increasing strains on services due to Covid-19 patient numbers, which have reached their highest levels during the pandemic, while 51,135 further cases and 414 deaths were reported on Tuesday.
Local authorities in Essex have declared a “major incident” as the number of coronavirus cases threatens to overwhelm health services in the county.
Meanwhile, ambulances were seen queueing outside hospitals including the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel and Queen’s Hospital in Romford, both in east London, and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, om Tuesday, and a junior doctor in the capital said his his hospital was “aggressively overstretched” by Covid-19 patients.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson chaired a meeting of the Government’s Covid-19 Operations committee on Tuesday evening, when changes to the tier system were discussed.
With case rates rising in all regions of England, as well as the number of Covid-19 patients in hospitals, any review is likely to involve areas moving up a tier rather than down.
Areas that may be moved from Tier 3 to Tier 4 due to increasing case rates include parts of the East Midlands, such as Northamptonshire and Leicestershire, as well as all areas of the West Midlands metropolitan county.
Hartlepool in north-east England, along with a handful of areas in Lancashire – Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Pendle and Ribble Valley – could also be upgraded from Tier 3 to 4.
The Times also reported that ministers are also considering imposing the country’s toughest measures on parts of the south west and Cumbria.
Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, warned “options were narrowing” and that moving areas into the highest tier was necessary.
“Pressures on the NHS in some parts of the country are rising at an unsustainable rate,” she said
“Thankfully, trusts in other areas have been helping out. But with the virus spreading fast alongside mounting winter pressures, the options are narrowing.
“We urgently need to get ahead of the outbreak. The Covid-19 tier review offers an opportunity to do that.
“It will require difficult decisions, moving millions more people to the highest level.
“The Government must act with boldness, speed and clarity in curbing the threat of Covid-19.”
Figures from NHS England showed there were 21,787 patients in NHS hospitals in England as of 8am on Tuesday, compared with 20,426 on Monday, and 18,974 at the first wave peak on April 12.
Five of the seven NHS regions in England are currently reporting a record number of Covid-19 hospital patients: Eastern England, London, the Midlands, south-east England and south-west England.
The other two regions, north-east and north-west England, remain below peak levels that were set in mid-November.
Meanwhile the number of further lab-confirmed cases recorded in a single day in the UK hit a new record on Tuesday, rising above 50,000 for the first time, to 53,135.
It is not possible to make direct comparisons with the level of infection during the first wave of the virus, because mass testing was only introduced in the UK in May, but it has been estimated there may have been as many 100,000 cases a day at the peak in late March and early April.
The Government said a further 414 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Tuesday, bringing the UK total to 71,567.
Dr Susan Hopkins, senior medical adviser for Public Health England, said the “unprecedented levels” of Covid-19 infection across the UK was of “extreme concern”.
More than six million people in east and south-east England went into the highest level of restrictions on Saturday, meaning 24 million – 43% of the population – are now affected.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Man dies after crash between Vespa and Mini Cooper

A MAN has died following a crash between a scooter and a car .
Police are appealing for witnesses following @ @ @ @ @ at 11.21pm yesterday .
Officers were called to reports of a collision between a Vespa @ @ @ @ @ Copnor Road in Portsmouth , near to the junction with Torrington Road .
The rider @ @ @ @ @ man in his 30s from Portsmouth , was pronounced dead at the scene .
His @ @ @ @ @ informed and are being supported .
Officers are making enquiries as to the exact circumstances @ @ @ @ @ keen to hear from anyone who can assist them .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police @ @ @ @ @ witnessed the incident , or have dash cam footage from Copnor Road around 11.21pm or @ @ @ @ @ which point out towards the road , then we are keen to speak with you @ @ @ @ @ should call 101 , quoting the reference 44200499342 . ''

Police are appealing for witnesses following the crash, which happened at 11.21pm yesterday.
Officers were called to reports of a collision between a Vespa and a Mini Cooper on Copnor Road in Portsmouth, near to the junction with Torrington Road.
The rider of the scooter, a man in his 30s from Portsmouth, was pronounced dead at the scene.
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported.
Officers are making enquiries as to the exact circumstances of the collision and are keen to hear from anyone who can assist them.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "If you witnessed the incident, or have dash cam footage from Copnor Road around 11.21pm or CCTV cameras outside your house which point out towards the road, then we are keen to speak with you.
"Anyone with information should call 101, quoting the reference 44200499342."


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Man charged with supplying, concealing and importing cocaine in Southampton

A MAN has been charged with drug importation offences .
Following an investigation by the South East Regional Organised Crime @ @ @ @ @ working alongside Hampshire Constabulary , Gwent Constabulary , Border Force and the National Crime Agency @ @ @ @ @ been charged .
Medi Cenmurati , 27 , of Fenner Brockway Close , Newport , @ @ @ @ @ , December 22 , and was charged on Wednesday .
He was charged with one @ @ @ @ @ supply of cocaine between 30 November and 5 December ; one count of concealing , @ @ @ @ @ or removing criminal property ; and one count of possessing or dealing in goods the @ @ @ @ @ is prohibited or restricted , with intent to evade any such prohibition or restriction .
@ @ @ @ @ with the search of a container at Southampton Docks by Border Force on Monday 30 @ @ @ @ @ Southampton Magistrates Court on 24 December , where he was remanded , and the next @ @ @ @ @ January at Southampton Crown Court .

Following an investigation by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), working alongside Hampshire Constabulary, Gwent Constabulary, Border Force and the National Crime Agency, a second man has been charged.
Medi Cenmurati, 27, of Fenner Brockway Close, Newport, Wales was arrested on Tuesday, December 22, and was charged on Wednesday.
He was charged with one count of being concerned in supply of cocaine between 30 November and 5 December; one count of concealing, disguising, converting, transferring or removing criminal property; and one count of possessing or dealing in goods the importation or exportation of which is prohibited or restricted, with intent to evade any such prohibition or restriction.
The charges are in connection with the search of a container at Southampton Docks by Border Force on Monday 30 November.
Cenmurati appeared at Southampton Magistrates Court on 24 December, where he was remanded, and the next hearing is set for 13 January at Southampton Crown Court.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--M27 reopened following police incident

M27 reopened following police incident

A MOTORWAY has been reopened 11 hours after it was closed following a police incident .
Police have announced this @ @ @ @ @ junctions 8 and 9 ( Windhover and Park Gate ) of the M27 is reopen @ @ @ @ @ was made at around 7.10am .
• UPDATE : Man who 'tried to walk across @ @ @ @ @ hit by lorry It comes after the road was shut at around 8pm last night @ @ @ @ @ As previously reported , officers were forcing traffic caught up in the delays to make @ @ @ @ @ that due to the `` nature of the incident '' , traffic was not allowed @ @ @ @ @ A police spokesperson said : `` These closures will be in place for some time @ @ @ @ @ avoid the area . ''
The Daily Echo has contacted Hampshire Police for more information @

Police have announced this morning that the motorway between junctions 8 and 9 (Windhover and Park Gate) of the M27 is reopen this morning.
The announcement was made at around 7.10am.
It comes after the road was shut at around 8pm last night following a police incident.
As previously reported, officers were forcing traffic caught up in the delays to make a U-turn.
They said that due to the "nature of the incident", traffic was not allowed to be released forward.
A police spokesperson said: "These closures will be in place for some time and we urge people to avoid the area."
The Daily Echo has contacted Hampshire Police for more information.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Hampshire police 'continue to monitor' Southampton gym

POLICE say they will continue to monitor a Southampton gym as it again appears to be flouting Covid restrictions after the city entered Tier 4 over the weekend .
As reported , fitness fanatics were spotted going in and out of Spartans Gym , on Millbank Street .
This was despite new Government rules which came into law on Boxing Day forcing gyms , swimming pools , studios and sports facilities to close indefinitely .
The firm is already facing court action over allegedly refusing to close during the November lockdown .
Hampshire Police say they are continuing to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaches of the current Health Protection Regulations at Spartan gym on Millbank Street in Southampton .
A spokesperson for the force said : `` The city council leads on business breaches of the regulations and court proceedings are active in this case .
• Southampton gym which 'refused to close in November lockdown ' still open in Tier 4 • Gym lockdown charge : Man pleads not guilty - and insists he does n't own or manage gym '' We will continue to carry our patrols in the area to address any issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public place .
On Tuesday morning , an Echo reporter counted more than a dozen visitors , some arriving in groups of three , and nearly all not wearing any protective face coverings - such as masks .
Southampton City Council says it is working with Hampshire Constabulary to monitor the business .
It added that it is aware the gym is open .
Spartans Gym did not respond to the Echo 's request for comment .
However , speaking to a national newspaper , a spokesperson for the gym said those entering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` working '' .
They added : `` We are closed but doing a lot of maintenance and also trying to paint , taking advantage of being closed… people coming and going will be working . ''
As reported last month , Josh Gosling appeared at Southampton Magistrates ’ Court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown .
He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable instruction given by a relevant person in England .
Gosling , of Tickner Close , Botley , previously represented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ argued he is a passionate gym member and is neither the manager nor owner of Spartans

As reported, fitness fanatics were spotted going in and out of Spartans Gym, on Millbank Street.
This was despite new Government rules which came into law on Boxing Day forcing gyms, swimming pools, studios and sports facilities to close indefinitely.
The firm is already facing court action over allegedly refusing to close during the November lockdown.
Hampshire Police say they are continuing to support Southampton City Council in relation to potential breaches of the current Health Protection Regulations at Spartan gym on Millbank Street in Southampton.
A spokesperson for the force said: "The city council leads on business breaches of the regulations and court proceedings are active in this case.
"We will continue to carry our patrols in the area to address any issues that are identified to us in a public place.
On Tuesday morning, an Echo reporter counted more than a dozen visitors, some arriving in groups of three, and nearly all not wearing any protective face coverings - such as masks.
Southampton City Council says it is working with Hampshire Constabulary to monitor the business.
It added that it is aware the gym is open.
Spartans Gym did not respond to the Echo's request for comment. However, speaking to a national newspaper, a spokesperson for the gym said those entering the site in full gym gear were "working".
They added: "We are closed but doing a lot of maintenance and also trying to paint, taking advantage of being closed… people coming and going will be working."
As reported last month, Josh Gosling appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown.
He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable instruction given by a relevant person in England.
Gosling, of Tickner Close, Botley, previously represented himself and protested his innocence.
He argued he is a passionate gym member and is neither the manager nor owner of Spartans


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--What do we know about the Oxford Covid-19 vaccine?

Every adult in Britain will be able to get a coronavirus vaccine , the Health Secretary has confirmed .
Officials had previously confirmed that those in at-risk groups will get a jab while alluding to wider vaccination .
But now the Oxford and AstraZeneca vaccine has been given the green light for widespread use , Matt Hancock has said that all adults will be eligible – with the exception of those who can not have the jab for medical reasons .
• Read more : Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine approved for mass rollout in the UK The jab has been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial volunteers in March .
Nine months later , it has been approved by the UK ’ s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) .
So what do we know about the vaccine ?
For people given two full doses of the jab in one study , the vaccine was 62.1 % effective .
In a study where people received a half dose followed by a full dose , the vaccine was 90 % effective .
Researchers said there were no admissions to hospital or severe disease in people receiving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dosage approved for use is the full dose/full dose regimen .
Phase three trials also suggested there were some promising signs about the vaccine potentially stopping transmission of Covid-19 .
The study suggested vaccine efficacy against asymptomatic transmission is around 27 % .
Like the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine , the Oxford vaccine is based on two doses .
During clinical trials , one set of volunteers were inadvertently given a half dose as the first jab .
Preliminary phase three results suggested the half dose , followed by the full dose was more effective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full doses .
However , this finding raised some eyebrows as it only included a small number of people , and was an apparent mistake .
Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has acknowledged the finding was as a result of a dosing error .
It confirmed that the MHRA approved the vaccine for use based on the full dose/full dose regimen .
The group of experts which advise the Government on vaccination – the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation – has recommended that for both the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab , as well as the Pfizer/BioNTech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give as many people in at-risk groups their first dose , rather than providing the required two doses in as short a time as possible .
Everyone will still receive their second dose and this will be within 12 weeks of their first .
AstraZeneca confirmed that in the trials of the vaccine some participants did receive their second dose 12 weeks after the first .
Pfizer said that its assessments of safety and efficacy of its own jab are based on a two-dose schedule , separated by 21 days and it urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regimens .
Who will get it and when ?
Mr Hancock has said every adult will be able to be vaccinated , with the exception of those who can not have the jab for medical reasons .
He told Times Radio : “ We have enough of this vaccine on order that all adults can have this vaccine and of course we ’ ll go to those who are clinically most vulnerable first and the healthcare professionals and those colleagues who work in social care .
“ We ’ ll go to them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but yes , after that – this vaccine will be available for the under-50s.
” The vaccine has not been approved for use in children .
Asked if he could provide a timeline for when under-50s without pre-existing conditions may be vaccinated , Mr Hancock told Times Radio : “ It depends on the speed of manufacture , I wish I could give you a date , but we can ’ t because it depends on the speed of the manufacture.
” But he added that now a second jab has been approved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be “ accelerated ” .
How many doses of vaccine do we have ?
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford University vaccine – enough to vaccinate 50 million people .
Officials also pre-ordered 40 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech jab – enough for 20 million people .

Officials had previously confirmed that those in at-risk groups will get a jab while alluding to wider vaccination.
But now the Oxford and AstraZeneca vaccine has been given the green light for widespread use, Matt Hancock has said that all adults will be eligible – with the exception of those who cannot have the jab for medical reasons.
The jab has been in the spotlight since it started screening for trial volunteers in March.
Nine months later, it has been approved by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
So what do we know about the vaccine?
Effectiveness
For people given two full doses of the jab in one study, the vaccine was 62.1% effective.
In a study where people received a half dose followed by a full dose, the vaccine was 90% effective.
Researchers said there were no admissions to hospital or severe disease in people receiving the vaccine.
AstraZeneca confirmed that the dosage approved for use is the full dose/full dose regimen.
Phase three trials also suggested there were some promising signs about the vaccine potentially stopping transmission of Covid-19.
The study suggested vaccine efficacy against asymptomatic transmission is around 27%.
Dosing
Like the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, the Oxford vaccine is based on two doses.
During clinical trials, one set of volunteers were inadvertently given a half dose as the first jab.
Preliminary phase three results suggested the half dose, followed by the full dose was more effective at protecting against coronavirus, than two full doses.
However, this finding raised some eyebrows as it only included a small number of people, and was an apparent mistake.
Pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has acknowledged the finding was as a result of a dosing error.
It confirmed that the MHRA approved the vaccine for use based on the full dose/full dose regimen.
The group of experts which advise the Government on vaccination – the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation – has recommended that for both the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab, as well as the Pfizer/BioNTech one, the priority should be to give as many people in at-risk groups their first dose, rather than providing the required two doses in as short a time as possible.
Everyone will still receive their second dose and this will be within 12 weeks of their first.
AstraZeneca confirmed that in the trials of the vaccine some participants did receive their second dose 12 weeks after the first.
Pfizer said that its assessments of safety and efficacy of its own jab are based on a two-dose schedule, separated by 21 days and it urged surveillance of any “alternative” dosing regimens.
Who will get it and when?
Mr Hancock has said every adult will be able to be vaccinated, with the exception of those who cannot have the jab for medical reasons.
He told Times Radio: “We have enough of this vaccine on order that all adults can have this vaccine and of course we’ll go to those who are clinically most vulnerable first and the healthcare professionals and those colleagues who work in social care.
“We’ll go to them first, according to that clinical prioritisation but yes,
after that – this vaccine will be available for the under-50s.”
The vaccine has not been approved for use in children.
Asked if he could provide a timeline for when under-50s without pre-existing conditions may be vaccinated, Mr Hancock told Times Radio: “It depends on the speed of manufacture, I wish I could give you a date, but we can’t because it depends on the speed of the manufacture.”
But he added that now a second jab has been approved for use, the vaccination programme can be “accelerated”.
How many doses of vaccine do we have?
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford University vaccine – enough to vaccinate 50 million people.
Officials also pre-ordered 40 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech jab – enough for 20 million people.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Covid: What can and can't you do in Tiers 1, 2, 3 and 4?

Further changes to England ’ s tier system are expected to be announced on Wednesday , just days after millions of people came under harsher coronavirus restrictions on Boxing Day .
Matt Hancock is due to address the Commons on Wednesday afternoon , with more areas set to move into the lockdown-like Tier 4 due to rising case rates around the country .
Here is a summary of the Covid-19 tier levels ahead of Mr Hancock ’ s update .
A total of 24 million people are living in Tier 4 – 43 % of the population of England .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tier 4 from Boxing Day in the following areas : These areas join Bedfordshire , Berkshire , Buckinghamshire , Peterborough in Cambridgeshire , Hastings and Rother in East Sussex , the rest of Essex , the rest of Hampshire , Hertfordshire , Kent , London and the rest of Surrey , which were already in Tier 4 .
The main restrictions in Tier 4 are : • No household mixing allowed , though one person can meet one other person outside in a public space • All non-essential shops and businesses must close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Nobody can enter or leave Tier 4 areas • Residents must not stay overnight away from home Some four million people moved to Tier 3 from December 26 , bringing the Tier 3 total to 25 million people , or 44 % of the population of England .
The areas that moved into Tier 3 from Boxing Day were : • Hampshire : Isle of Wight and New Forest These areas joined the already Tier 3 Derbyshire , County Durham , South Gloucestershire , Greater Manchester , the Humber , Lancashire , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , South Yorkshire , Staffordshire , Tees Valley , Tyne & Wear , Warwickshire , the West Midlands metropolitan county and West Yorkshire .
The main restrictions in Tier 3 are : • No household mixing allowed indoors or outdoors , except in parks and public gardens • All hospitality is closed , except for takeaways and deliveries • All accommodation and entertainment venues are closed The number of people living in Tier 2 currently stands at seven million , or 13 % of the population of England .
Two areas were moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boxing Day : Cornwall and Herefordshire .
They joined Cumbria , Devon , the Liverpool City Region , North Yorkshire , Rutland , Shropshire , Wiltshire ( not including Swindon ) , Worcestershire and York in Tier 2 .
The main restrictions in Tier 2 are : • No household mixing allowed indoors , but the “ rule of six ” applies outdoors • Hospitality venues must close unless serving substantial meals with drinks • Large sport and entertainment events are allowed but with a very limited audience Just 2,000 people are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the population of the Isles of Scilly .
The main restrictions in Tier 1 are : • The “ rule of six ” must apply indoors and outdoors • There must be table service in hospitality venues , with last orders at 10pm and closing time at 11pm • Large sporting and entertainment events are allowed but with a limited audience .

Matt Hancock is due to address the Commons on Wednesday afternoon, with more areas set to move into the lockdown-like Tier 4 due to rising case rates around the country.
Here is a summary of the Covid-19 tier levels ahead of Mr Hancock’s update.
Tier 4
A total of 24 million people are living in Tier 4 – 43% of the population of England.
Some six million people were added to Tier 4 from Boxing Day in the following areas:
Cambridgeshire: Cambridge, East Cambridgeshire, Fenland, Huntingdonshire and South Cambridgeshire
East Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Eastbourne, Lewes and Wealden
Essex: Colchester, Tendring and Uttlesford
Hampshire: Basingstoke & Deane, East Hampshire, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hart, Rushmoor, Southampton, Test Valley and Winchester
Norfolk: Breckland, Broadland, Great Yarmouth, King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, North Norfolk, Norwich, South Norfolk
Oxfordshire: Cherwell, Oxford, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse and West Oxfordshire
Suffolk: Babergh, East Suffolk, Ipswich, Mid Suffolk and West Suffolk
Surrey: Waverley
West Sussex: Adur, Arun, Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, Mid Sussex and Worthing
These areas join Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Peterborough in Cambridgeshire, Hastings and Rother in East Sussex, the rest of Essex, the rest of Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London and the rest of Surrey, which were already in Tier 4.
The main restrictions in Tier 4 are:
No household mixing allowed, though one person can meet one other person outside in a public space
All non-essential shops and businesses must close, including personal care and indoor entertainment
Nobody can enter or leave Tier 4 areas
Residents must not stay overnight away from home
Tier 3
Some four million people moved to Tier 3 from December 26, bringing the Tier 3 total to 25 million people, or 44% of the population of England.
The areas that moved into Tier 3 from Boxing Day were:
Bristol
Cheshire: Cheshire East, Cheshire West & Chester and Warrington
Gloucestershire: Cheltenham, Cotswold, Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Stroud and Tewkesbury
Hampshire: Isle of Wight and New Forest
Northamptonshire: Corby, Daventry, East Northamptonshire, Kettering, Northampton, South Northamptonshire and Wellingborough
Somerset: Bath & North East Somerset, Mendip, North Somerset, Sedgemoor, Somerset West & Taunton and South Somerset
Swindon
These areas joined the already Tier 3 Derbyshire, County Durham, South Gloucestershire, Greater Manchester, the Humber, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northumberland, Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Tees Valley, Tyne & Wear, Warwickshire, the West Midlands metropolitan county and West Yorkshire.
The main restrictions in Tier 3 are:
No household mixing allowed indoors or outdoors, except in parks and public gardens
All hospitality is closed, except for takeaways and deliveries
All accommodation and entertainment venues are closed
Tier 2
The number of people living in Tier 2 currently stands at seven million, or 13% of the population of England.
Two areas were moved from Tier 1 to Tier 2 on Boxing Day: Cornwall and Herefordshire.
They joined Cumbria, Devon, the Liverpool City Region, North Yorkshire, Rutland, Shropshire, Wiltshire (not including Swindon), Worcestershire and York in Tier 2.
The main restrictions in Tier 2 are:
No household mixing allowed indoors, but the “rule of six” applies outdoors
Hospitality venues must close unless serving substantial meals with drinks
Large sport and entertainment events are allowed but with a very limited audience
Tier 1
Just 2,000 people are in Tier 1 as of December 26 – the population of the Isles of Scilly.
The main restrictions in Tier 1 are:


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine approved for mass rollout in the UK

A COVID-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca has been approved for use in the UK , paving the way for mass rollout .
The jab , which has been described as a “ game changer ” , was given the green light by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the approval is “ fantastic news ” and confirmed the rollout will begin on January 4 .
“ This is a moment to celebrate British innovation – not only are we responsible for discovering the first treatment to reduce mortality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made available to some of the poorest regions of the world at a low cost , helping protect countless people from this awful disease , ” he said .
“ It is a tribute to the incredible UK scientists at Oxford University and AstraZeneca whose breakthrough will help to save lives around the world.
” It comes amid increasing strain on hospitals in England , where the number of Covid-19 patients is the highest it has been during the pandemic .
Mr Hancock is due to announce any changes to tier areas in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With case rates rising in all regions of England , and record patient numbers , any changes are likely to involve areas moving up a tier rather than down .
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford University vaccine – enough to vaccinate 50 million people .
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said : “ The Government has today accepted the recommendation from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) to authorise Oxford University/AstraZeneca ’ s Covid-19 vaccine for use .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ analysis of the data by experts at the MHRA , which has concluded that the vaccine has met its strict standards of safety , quality and effectiveness.
” The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation ( JCVI ) , which advises ministers , will publish its latest guidance on who should receive the vaccine and in which order later .
Data published in The Lancet medical journal in early December showed the vaccine was 62 % effective in preventing Covid-19 among a group of 4,440 people given two standard doses of the vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placebo drug .
Of 1,367 people given a half first dose of the vaccine followed by a full second dose , there was 90 % protection against Covid-19 when compared with a control group of 1,374 people .
The overall Lancet data , which was peer-reviewed , set out full results from clinical trials of more than 20,000 people .
Among the people given the placebo drug , 10 were admitted to hospital with coronavirus , including two with severe Covid which resulted in one death .
But among those receiving the vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe cases .
People receiving the Oxford vaccine or the one from Pfizer/BioNTech , which is also being rolled out , will now receive their first dose of the vaccine followed by a second dose up to 12 weeks later .
The aim is to give as many people as possible a first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine .
The Department of Health spokesman said : “ Having studied evidence on both the Pfizer/BioNTech and Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccines , the JCVI has advised the priority should be to give as many people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than providing the required two doses in as short a time as possible .
“ Everyone will still receive their second dose and this will be within 12 weeks of their first .
The second dose completes the course and is important for longer term protection .
“ From today the NHS across the UK will prioritise giving the first dose of the vaccine to those in the most high-risk groups .
“ With two vaccines now approved , we will be able to vaccinate a greater number of people who are at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease and reducing mortality and hospitalisation.
” AstraZeneca chief executivde Pascal Soriot said : “ Today is an important day for millions of people in the UK who will get access to this new vaccine .
“ It has been shown to be effective , well-tolerated , simple to administer and is supplied by AstraZeneca at no profit.
” Professor Andrew Pollard , director of the Oxford Vaccine Group , who led the clinical trial , said : “ The regulator ’ s assessment that this is a safe and effective vaccine is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the huge effort from a devoted international team of researchers and our dedicated trial participants .
“ Though this is just the beginning , we will start to get ahead of the pandemic , protect health and economies when the vulnerable are vaccinated everywhere , as many as possible as soon possible.
” During the Oxford vaccine trial , the half-dose followed by a full-dose regime came about as a result of an accident .
However , the MHRA was made aware of what happened and clinical trials for the vaccine were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Sunday Times , Mr Soriot suggested that further data submitted to the regulator showed the vaccine could match the 95 % efficacy achieved by the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines .
“ We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that , after two doses , is up there with everybody else , ” he said .

The jab, which has been described as a “game changer”, was given the green light by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the approval is “fantastic news” and confirmed the rollout will begin on January 4.
“This is a moment to celebrate British innovation – not only are we responsible for discovering the first treatment to reduce mortality for Covid-19, this vaccine will be made available to some of the poorest regions of the world at a low cost, helping protect countless people from this awful disease,” he said.
“It is a tribute to the incredible UK scientists at Oxford University and AstraZeneca whose breakthrough will help to save lives around the world.”
It comes amid increasing strain on hospitals in England, where the number of Covid-19 patients is the highest it has been during the pandemic.
Mr Hancock is due to announce any changes to tier areas in a statement to the Commons on Wednesday.
With case rates rising in all regions of England, and record patient numbers, any changes are likely to involve areas moving up a tier rather than down.
The UK has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford University vaccine – enough to vaccinate 50 million people.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: “The Government has today accepted the recommendation from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to authorise Oxford University/AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine for use.
“This follows rigorous clinical trials and a thorough analysis of the data by experts at the MHRA, which has concluded that the vaccine has met its strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness.”
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which advises ministers, will publish its latest guidance on who should receive the vaccine and in which order later.
Data published in The Lancet medical journal in early December showed the vaccine was 62% effective in preventing Covid-19 among a group of 4,440 people given two standard doses of the vaccine when compared with 4,455 people given a placebo drug.
Of 1,367 people given a half first dose of the vaccine followed by a full second dose, there was 90% protection against Covid-19 when compared with a control group of 1,374 people.
The overall Lancet data, which was peer-reviewed, set out full results from clinical trials of more than 20,000 people.
Among the people given the placebo drug, 10 were admitted to hospital with coronavirus, including two with severe Covid which resulted in one death.
But among those receiving the vaccine, there were no hospital admissions or severe cases.
People receiving the Oxford vaccine or the one from Pfizer/BioNTech, which is also being rolled out, will now receive their first dose of the vaccine followed by a second dose up to 12 weeks later.
The aim is to give as many people as possible a first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
The Department of Health spokesman said: “Having studied evidence on both the Pfizer/BioNTech and Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccines, the JCVI has advised the priority should be to give as many people in at-risk groups their first dose, rather than providing the required two doses in as short a time as possible.
“Everyone will still receive their second dose and this will be within 12 weeks of their first. The second dose completes the course and is important for longer term protection.
“From today the NHS across the UK will prioritise giving the first dose of the vaccine to those in the most high-risk groups.
“With two vaccines now approved, we will be able to vaccinate a greater number of people who are at highest risk, protecting them from the disease and reducing mortality and hospitalisation.”
AstraZeneca chief executivde Pascal Soriot said: “Today is an important day for millions of people in the UK who will get access to this new vaccine.
“It has been shown to be effective, well-tolerated, simple to administer and is supplied by AstraZeneca at no profit.”
Professor Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, who led the clinical trial, said: “The regulator’s assessment that this is a safe and effective vaccine is a landmark moment, and an endorsement of the huge effort from a devoted international team of researchers and our dedicated trial participants.
“Though this is just the beginning, we will start to get ahead of the pandemic, protect health and economies when the vulnerable are vaccinated everywhere, as many as possible as soon possible.”
During the Oxford vaccine trial, the half-dose followed by a full-dose regime came about as a result of an accident.
However, the MHRA was made aware of what happened and clinical trials for the vaccine were allowed to continue.
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Mr Soriot suggested that further data submitted to the regulator showed the vaccine could match the 95% efficacy achieved by the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines.
“We think we have figured out the winning formula and how to get efficacy that, after two doses, is up there with everybody else,” he said.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Staff at Sainsbury's Bitterne test positive for coronavirus

A NUMBER of Southampton supermarket staff have been force to isolate after testing positive for coronavirus .
A group of colleagues have tested positive for the virus at Sainsbury 's in Bitterne , but the store has not been closed .
The store , on Bitterne Road , has confirmed that a `` small number '' of their staff have been forced to isolate after testing positive .
A number of other staff are also self-isolating as a precaution .
Sainsbury 's confirmed the cases to the Daily Echo today , adding that safety is their `` highest priority '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have began to enforce stricter social distancing measures .
There are also hand sanitiser stations , Perspex screens and PPE for all staff .
A Sainsbury ’ s spokesperson said : “ A small number of colleagues have tested positive at our Bitterne store and they are self-isolating at home .
Some colleagues are self-isolating as a precaution .
“ Safety is our highest priority .
We have introduced additional cleaning and have strict social distancing measures in all our stores , as well as hand sanitiser stations , Perspex screens and PPE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to support Test and Trace and remain in close contact with them.
” It has not been confirmed how many of the staff have tested positive or how many staff are currently self-isolating .
The store remains open at this time .

A group of colleagues have tested positive for the virus at Sainsbury's in Bitterne, but the store has not been closed.
The store, on Bitterne Road, has confirmed that a "small number" of their staff have been forced to isolate after testing positive.
A number of other staff are also self-isolating as a precaution.
Sainsbury's confirmed the cases to the Daily Echo today, adding that safety is their "highest priority".
Management have introduced additional cleaning and have began to enforce stricter social distancing measures. There are also hand sanitiser stations, Perspex screens and PPE for all staff.
A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “A small number of colleagues have tested positive at our Bitterne store and they are self-isolating at home. Some colleagues are self-isolating as a precaution.
“Safety is our highest priority. We have introduced additional cleaning and have strict social distancing measures in all our stores, as well as hand sanitiser stations, Perspex screens and PPE for all our colleagues.
"We continue to support Test and Trace and remain in close contact with them.”
It has not been confirmed how many of the staff have tested positive or how many staff are currently self-isolating.
The store remains open at this time.


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Eastleigh Labour Party raises questions on council spending

A CAMPAIGNER has branded council spending “ worrying ” after his party discovered a spend of over £4m this year .
Eastleigh Labour Party claims Eastleigh Borough Council has spent £4,223,917 this year on Consultants Fees .
This is part of an ongoing investigation into council spending .
Items highlighted include what appears to be horse riding lessons from Equine Access Limited , and £2m paid to PMC Construction Development Services .
The party also says thousands of pounds show as being given to “ redacted recipients ” .
Eastleigh Labour has reportedly made enquiries to the council , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why this money has been spent in this way .
Campaigner and senior officer at Eastleigh Labour , Sam Jordan , said : “ We have a right to know where Eastleigh ’ s money is going and why it is being spent this way .
“ We are in the midst of a global pandemic which is crippling our local economy – the Liberal Democrat-run council is happily closing Eastleigh ’ s Market and High Streets but is failing to provide answers on where and why public money is being spent like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m not the only one who thinks it ’ s a total scandal.
” A Council spokesperson said : “ The Council employs specialist contractors to achieve best value to help all our residents .
“ Some of those specialist skills are required for individual projects , and not as permanent staff , just like a homeowner pays tradespeople to do work on their home but doesn ’ t employ them all year round .
”

Eastleigh Labour Party claims Eastleigh Borough Council has spent £4,223,917 this year on Consultants Fees.
This is part of an ongoing investigation into council spending.
Items highlighted include what appears to be horse riding lessons from Equine Access Limited, and £2m paid to PMC Construction Development Services.
The party also says thousands of pounds show as being given to “redacted recipients”.
Eastleigh Labour has reportedly made enquiries to the council, but no clarification has been provided as to why this money has been spent in this way.
Campaigner and senior officer at Eastleigh Labour, Sam Jordan, said: “We have a right to know where Eastleigh’s money is going and why it is being spent this way.
“We are in the midst of a global pandemic which is crippling our local economy – the Liberal Democrat-run council is happily closing Eastleigh’s Market and High Streets but is failing to provide answers on where and why public money is being spent like this.
“I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks it’s a total scandal.”
A Council spokesperson said: “The Council employs specialist contractors to achieve best value to help all our residents.
“Some of those specialist skills are required for individual projects, and not as permanent staff, just like a homeowner pays tradespeople to do work on their home but doesn’t employ them all year round.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Romsey micropub could open next year after plans are approved by Test Valley Borough Council

A NEW nautical-themed micropub in the heart of Romsey could open its doors in February .
This comes as a planning application to revamp the empty 8 Market Place into a new pub was approved by Test Valley Borough Council ( TVBC ) yesterday .
The plans , submitted by Anchor Real Estate Ltd , will see the ground floor of the grade II listed building transformed into the pub , while the second floor and attic will be changed for residential use .
• Royal Oak at Fritham , New Forest , is country pub of the year The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anchor Real Estate Ltd , Ian Paxton , who revealed the micropub will be called the Cocky Anchor and could host as many as 40 people .
Ian , 41 , said : `` I have lived in Romsey for over 20 years now , I have always liked this building and remember when it was Boots ; when the opportunity came up I thought it was the perfect place to have a nautical-themed pub , because it has views of the abbey and the Market Place .
`` My wife , Libby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specialist in the navy , and my family have strong links with the navy , so I thought this would be a good thing to do .
`` The pub could hold around 40 people , which does n't include the beer garden , and I would like to open in February , but that is subject to Covid-19 and what restrictions are in place then . ''
When asked how the pub will stand out compared to its competitors , Ian said : `` We will not serve food , apart from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traditional pub and a nice place to come for a drink .
`` There will not be any loud music either , it will be a quality pub where people can sit down and enjoy a conversation . ''
Ian said there will also be nautical objects hanging from the ceiling and customers will even be able to sit on gun powder barrels to match the theme of the business .
This comes after community leaders threw their support behind the plans , believing the new business could help the market town continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who represents Romsey Cupernham on the borough council , said : `` Anything that brings business into the Market Place is wonderful , because we have got quite a few empty units and it would be really good to have a new business there .
Cllr Nik Daas , who represents the Romsey Abbey ward , said : `` That is very good news for Romsey if that empty building can be filled .
`` If we can get something new and exciting in there I am glad to hear it . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ impact the business , Cllr Daas said : `` As with all shops , pubs and restaurants there are social distancing rules and we are [ having to adapt ] to a new normal , so I am sure they will be able to work it out . ''

This comes as a planning application to revamp the empty 8 Market Place into a new pub was approved by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) yesterday.
The plans, submitted by Anchor Real Estate Ltd, will see the ground floor of the grade II listed building transformed into the pub, while the second floor and attic will be changed for residential use.
Royal Oak at Fritham, New Forest, is country pub of the year
The Advertiser spoke to the managing director of Anchor Real Estate Ltd, Ian Paxton, who revealed the micropub will be called the Cocky Anchor and could host as many as 40 people.
Ian, 41, said: "I have lived in Romsey for over 20 years now, I have always liked this building and remember when it was Boots; when the opportunity came up I thought it was the perfect place to have a nautical-themed pub, because it has views of the abbey and the Market Place.
"My wife, Libby, who used to be a warfare specialist in the navy, and my family have strong links with the navy, so I thought this would be a good thing to do.
"The pub could hold around 40 people, which doesn't include the beer garden, and I would like to open in February, but that is subject to Covid-19 and what restrictions are in place then."
When asked how the pub will stand out compared to its competitors, Ian said: "We will not serve food, apart from snacks, so it will be a traditional pub and a nice place to come for a drink.
"There will not be any loud music either, it will be a quality pub where people can sit down and enjoy a conversation."
Ian said there will also be nautical objects hanging from the ceiling and customers will even be able to sit on gun powder barrels to match the theme of the business.
This comes after community leaders threw their support behind the plans, believing the new business could help the market town continue to thrive.
Cllr Dorothy Baverstock, who represents Romsey Cupernham on the borough council, said: "Anything that brings business into the Market Place is wonderful, because we have got quite a few empty units and it would be really good to have a new business there.
Cllr Nik Daas, who represents the Romsey Abbey ward, said: "That is very good news for Romsey if that empty building can be filled.
"If we can get something new and exciting in there I am glad to hear it."
When asked if the coronavirus crisis could impact the business, Cllr Daas said: "As with all shops, pubs and restaurants there are social distancing rules and we are [having to adapt] to a new normal, so I am sure they will be able to work it out."


thedailyecho--2020-12-30--Area fenced off after flag pole on Southampton Bargate snaps

A CITY centre building has been cordoned off after a flag pole broke in strong winds .
The Union Jack @ @ @ @ @ above Southampton High Street has reportedly snapped and is currently hanging over the edge of @ @ @ @ @ now led to the area being cordoned off for safety reasons as Southampton City Council @ @ @ @ @ .
The damage has been blamed on high winds experienced recently in the area .
@ @ @ @ @ : `` ‘ The Council is aware that the Union Jack Flag over the main @ @ @ @ @ has fallen down due to the pole snapping in the recent winds and is now @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We are currently working towards fencing off the area to make it safe @ @ @ @ @ be repaired . ''
The Bargate is a Grade I listed medieval gatehouse , constructed @ @ @ @ @ of the Southampton town walls .

The Union Jack Flag which normally flies high above Southampton High Street has reportedly snapped and is currently hanging over the edge of the Bargate.
This has now led to the area being cordoned off for safety reasons as Southampton City Council work to repair the flag.
The damage has been blamed on high winds experienced recently in the area.
A City Council spokesperson said: "‘The Council is aware that the Union Jack Flag over the main archway of the Bargate itself has fallen down due to the pole snapping in the recent winds and is now hanging down over the arch.
"We are currently working towards fencing off the area to make it safe until the flag pole can be repaired."
The Bargate is a Grade I listed medieval gatehouse, constructed in Norman times as part of the Southampton town walls.