thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Parents and teachers demand answers over 'chaotic' school shutdown plans

The children of key workers and those most in need will still be able to go in , the Government said – but it was not clear how this would work .
Most pupils will not return this school year in an escalation in the Government ’ s coronavirus response .
It came as the UK death toll climbed to 104 as another 32 people in England and one in Scotland died .
And it emerged a lockdown of London is planned as early as next week as the infections race ahead in the capital .
Multiple sources told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tightened , with businesses closed and restrictions on travel .
A senior Government source signalled it could come within days , saying : “ It ’ s not going to happen today or tomorrow.
” It took London ’ s City Hall by surprise , with a source saying : “ We haven ’ t heard anything on this – this lack of information doesn ’ t sound like the best way to govern in a national emergency.
” A mobile mortuary was set up in the capital to cope with expected deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope with news that a “ game-changer ” test to see if an individual has developed antibodies to tackle the virus is “ coming down the track ” .
Announcing the closure of schools , nurseries , childminding services and colleges from tomorrow , Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said : “ They will remain closed until further notice .
`` This will be for all children except to those of key workers and children who are most vulnerable.
” From Monday all schools will be expected to open but only the children of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be allowed to attend .
Over the next two weeks headteachers will work out the best way to run a skeleton operation , with some teachers and children being asked to go to a different school than usual .
But the head of the NUT union said the announcement left “ more questions than answers ” .
The move will radically change life for almost nine million children , millions of parents and more than 500,000 teachers across the UK .
The Prime Minister said exams will be cancelled but the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need .
However , he did not say how or what form that would take .
Thousands of students will have university or college offers dependent on their A-level results .
Clare Marchant , boss of universities admissions body UCAS said plans had already been put in place for this scenario .
But it remained unclear how the new system would work with some teachers worrying that relying on predicted grades would disadvantage worse-off families .
Scottish leaders said there is no guarantee schools there would reopen before the summer .
Schools in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people in need ” .
• Prince Harry and wife Meghan want to help people cope with the mental stress by using their soon-to-be-rebranded @ sussexroyal Instagram account to share resources .
• Prince William supported a national appeal to raise funds for those in need through the National Emergencies Trust .
He said : “ It will ensure the support reaches those across the UK who need it most as quickly and efficiently as possible.
” • A Navy hospital ship that supported operations to curb the Ebola outbreak could be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on packed NHS wards .
Helicopters and other aircraft could be made available , with some 20,000 troops on standby .
Scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory at Porton Down , Wilts , are working on fighting the spread of coronavirus .
• Retired and part-time police could be called on to help depleted forces , with voluntary police specials paid and diverted from their day jobs if sickness hits the regular service .
• Donald Trump said the border between the US and Canada would be closed to all but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he plans to bar undocumented immigrants from crossing the southern border .
He said America is on a wartime footing and that he sees himself as a “ wartime president ” .
• Some 108 Brits , most elderly , were stranded on a cruise ship off Brazil .
British diplomats are negotiating with the Brazilian authorities to try to get the passengers off the Silver Shadow .
What has been announced ?
Schools in England will shut to most pupils after lessons on Friday but remain open for kids of keyworkers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the latest ” in Scotland they shut by the end of the week .
They close in Northern Ireland from Monday .
Special schools , private schools and nurseries shut too .
Who will look after the children ?
Millions of children will be sent home meaning in most cases , parents will stay home to care for them .
Asking elderly relatives to help out is not an option as over-70s are at risk .
Employers will be expected to make allowances for working from home .
Children of key workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social care workers and delivery drivers .
A full list will be published today .
“ Vulnerable pupils ” will also be asked to turn up - meaning those who either have a social worker , or an education , health and care plan .
What about kids who have exams ?
All GCSE , AS- and A-Level exams are to be axed .
The PM said pupils would get the qualifications they need .
Options include teachers submitting predicted grades .
Thousands will have university or college offers dependent on results .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Year 6 children .
Teachers have to draw up home lesson plans .
What happens if kids get free meals ?
There will be vouchers for children eligible for free school meals .
It could just apply for children who get means-tested free meals rather than infants pupils who receive them universally .
Are my children are now at risk ?
Research suggests the younger you are , the less likely you are to have complications from COVID-19 .
We don ’ t know .
Science chiefs previously said for a shutdown to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to shut for three to four months .
Why weren ’ t they closed before now ?
When millions take time off to look after their kids it harms the economy , the NHS and society .
The balance of riks has now changed .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Pippa Crerar, Nicola Bartlett)

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced all schools will close on Friday
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced all schools will close on Friday
Boris Johnson has announced that schools across the UK will shut their doors from Friday and it is unclear which will stay open for the children of 'key workers'
Parents and teachers demanded answers as chaos surrounded Friday’s school closures.
The children of key workers and those most in need will still be able to go in, the Government said – but it was not clear how this would work.
Most pupils will not return this school year in an escalation in the Government’s coronavirus response.
It came as the UK death toll climbed to 104 as another 32 people in England and one in Scotland died.
And it emerged a lockdown of London is planned as early as next week as the infections race ahead in the capital.
Multiple sources told the Mirror they expected restrictions to be hugely tightened, with businesses closed and restrictions on travel.
A senior Government source signalled it could come within days, saying: “It’s not going to happen today or tomorrow.”
It took London’s City Hall by surprise, with a source saying: “We haven’t heard anything on this – this lack of information doesn’t sound like the best way to govern in a national emergency.”
A mobile mortuary was set up in the capital to cope with expected deaths from the disease.
But there was hope with news that a “game-changer” test to see if an individual has developed antibodies to tackle the virus is “coming down the track”.
Announcing the closure of schools, nurseries, childminding services and colleges from tomorrow, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “They will remain closed until further notice.
"This will be for all children except to those of key workers and children who are most vulnerable.”
From Monday all schools will be expected to open but only the children of key workers and those classed as vulnerable will be allowed to attend.
Over the next two weeks headteachers will work out the best way to run a skeleton operation, with some teachers and children being asked to go to a different school than usual.
But the head of the NUT union said the announcement left “more questions than answers”.
The move will radically change life for almost nine million children, millions of parents and more than 500,000 teachers across the UK.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
The Prime Minister said exams will be cancelled but the government would ensure pupils get the qualifications they need. However, he did not say how or what form that would take.
Thousands of students will have university or college offers dependent on their A-level results.
Clare Marchant, boss of universities admissions body UCAS said plans had already been put in place for this scenario.
But it remained unclear how the new system would work with some teachers worrying that relying on predicted grades would disadvantage worse-off families.
GMB chief Rehana Azam said: “More detail is urgently needed.”
Scottish leaders said there is no guarantee schools there would reopen before the summer. Schools in Wales will be re-purposed to help “people in need”.
Elsewhere:
Prince Harry and wife Meghan want to help people cope with the mental stress by using their soon-to-be-rebranded @sussexroyal Instagram account to share resources.
Prince William supported a national appeal to raise funds for those in need through the National Emergencies Trust. He said: “It will ensure the support reaches those across the UK who need it most as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
A Navy hospital ship that supported operations to curb the Ebola outbreak could be used to treat coronavirus patients and ease pressure on packed NHS wards. Helicopters and other aircraft could be made available, with some 20,000 troops on standby. Scientists at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory at Porton Down, Wilts, are working on fighting the spread of coronavirus.
When should you call NHS 111? Those experiencing coronavirus symptoms, such as a cough or fever, should self-isolate for seven days. You should stay at home if you or or anyone in your household has a high temperature or a new and continuous cough - even if it's mild. Everyone in your household must stay at home for 14 days and keep away from others as it can take 14 days for them to appear.
DO NOT go to your GP or hospital.
Go to NHS.UK to check your symptoms and follow the specialist medical advice.
Only call 111 if you can't get online, you feel like you can't cope at home, or your symptoms do not get better after the seven days.
If you are pregnant you should call 111 if you have any concerns about yourself or unborn baby during self-isolation.
Pregnant women are advised to contact their midwife, out-of-hours helplines or a maternity team who will provide information on whether you need to go to hospital.
Retired and part-time police could be called on to help depleted forces, with voluntary police specials paid and diverted from their day jobs if sickness hits the regular service.
Donald Trump said the border between the US and Canada would be closed to all but “essential traffic”, and confirmed he plans to bar undocumented immigrants from crossing the southern border. He said America is on a wartime footing and that he sees himself as a “wartime president”.
Some 108 Brits, most elderly, were stranded on a cruise ship off Brazil. British diplomats are negotiating with the Brazilian authorities to try to get the passengers off the Silver Shadow.
What has been announced?
Schools in England will shut to most pupils after lessons on Friday but remain open for kids of keyworkers. Schools in Wales close on Friday “at the latest”in Scotland they shut by the end of the week. They close in Northern Ireland from Monday. Special schools, private schools and nurseries shut too.
Who will look after the children?
Millions of children will be sent home meaning in most cases, parents will stay home to care for them. Asking elderly relatives to help out is not an option as over-70s are at risk. Employers will be expected to make allowances for working from home.
Image: ANP/AFP via Getty Images) ANP/AFP via Getty Images)
Which children can attend school?
Children of key workers which include NHS staff, police, social care workers and delivery drivers. A full list will be published today. “Vulnerable pupils” will also be asked to turn up - meaning those who either have a social worker, or an education, health and care plan.
What about kids who have exams?
All GCSE, AS- and A-Level exams are to be axed. The PM said pupils would get the qualifications they need. Options include teachers submitting predicted grades. Thousands will have university or college offers dependent on results. Primary school SATS will be cancelled for Year 6 children. Teachers have to draw up home lesson plans.
What happens if kids get free meals?
There will be vouchers for children eligible for free school meals. It could just apply for children who get means-tested free meals rather than infants pupils who receive them universally.
Are my children are now at risk?
Research suggests the younger you are, the less likely you are to have complications from COVID-19.
How long will schools stay shut?
We don’t know. Science chiefs previously said for a shutdown to work against the virus, schools would have to shut for three to four months.
Why weren’t they closed before now?
When millions take time off to look after their kids it harms the economy, the NHS and society. The balance of riks has now changed.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--EastEnders cast partied in pubs for St Patrick’s Day days before set shut down

Cast members from EastEnders were partying for St Patrick 's Day just days before the BBC soap 's set was shut down .
The show has placed filming on hold due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic , with the soap cutting the number of episodes down to two per week .
The move will see the episodes that have already been recorded last longer on viewers ' screens .
However , fans who follow cast members on social media will have noticed that they were making the most of time together before the government advised the public to avoid pubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday of St Patrick 's Day , EastEnders cast members Lorraine Stanley , Max Bowden , and Shona McGarty were out and about with Max 's girlfriend Danielle .
Lorraine was seen holding Danielle 's legs in the pics as the actors celebrated together .
Max captioned the photo : `` Amongst all the madness , happy St Patrick ’ s day ! ''
Lorraine also shared some pics , writing : `` Sat night giggles for Paddy ’ s day with my good friends . ''
The group were having a wonderful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close down production for the foreseeable future .
A spokesperson confirmed : `` In light of the spread of COVID-19 , after much consideration , it has been decided that filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice .
`` The decision has been made after the latest government update .
`` We will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation Public Health England .
`` We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two so that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to enjoy EastEnders in their home for as long as possible . ''
While EastEnders will not be filming for the time being , ITV soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale have decided to continue at present but with a slightly reduced episode count .
EastEnders will continue to air on Monday and Tuesday evenings , meaning episodes due to air next week - including Dennis Rickman 's funeral - wo n't begin airing until the following week now .
Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0207 29 33033 .

The cast of BBC One soap opera EastEnders were seen partying for the Irish holiday ahead of advice on social distancing due to the coronavirus pandemic
Cast members from EastEnders were partying for St Patrick's Day just days before the BBC soap's set was shut down.
The show has placed filming on hold due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, with the soap cutting the number of episodes down to two per week.
The move will see the episodes that have already been recorded last longer on viewers' screens.
However, fans who follow cast members on social media will have noticed that they were making the most of time together before the government advised the public to avoid pubs and social distance.
Image: lorraine_stanley_/Instagram) lorraine_stanley_/Instagram)
Celebrating the Irish holiday of St Patrick's Day, EastEnders cast members Lorraine Stanley, Max Bowden, and Shona McGarty were out and about with Max's girlfriend Danielle.
Lorraine was seen holding Danielle's legs in the pics as the actors celebrated together.
Max captioned the photo: "Amongst all the madness, happy St Patrick’s day!"
Lorraine also shared some pics, writing: "Sat night giggles for Paddy’s day with my good friends."
The group were having a wonderful time but days later the show would close down production for the foreseeable future.
Image: bowden5/Instagram) bowden5/Instagram) Image: lorraine_stanley_/Instagram) lorraine_stanley_/Instagram)
A spokesperson confirmed: "In light of the spread of COVID-19, after much consideration, it has been decided that filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice.
"The decision has been made after the latest government update.
"We will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation Public Health England.
"We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two so that we can ensure the audience can continue to enjoy EastEnders in their home for as long as possible."
While EastEnders will not be filming for the time being, ITV soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale have decided to continue at present but with a slightly reduced episode count.
EastEnders will continue to air on Monday and Tuesday evenings, meaning episodes due to air next week - including Dennis Rickman's funeral - won't begin airing until the following week now.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Strictly Come Dancing's Kevin Clifton quit the show because he felt 'too old'

Kevin Clifton has revealed the reason why he left Strictly Come Dancing .
The 37-year-old professional dancer revealed that he threw in the towel because he did n't want to be the oldest two-stepper in the cast .
The flame-footed star - who won the show back in 2018 with his now girlfriend Stacey Dooley - said that by him leaving , it will give younger dancers a chance at showing off their talent on the hit show .
`` Me leaving gives younger dancers the chance to come through now .
Nobody is bigger than the show , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has appeared on Strictly for the past seven years - stated that he could n't see himself progressing on the show any longer as he 's about to hit his forties .
`` At age 23 it would be different .
I ’ d look at it and think , ‘ I can stay on this for the next ten or 15 years ’ , but at 37 years old I was thinking , ‘ I ’ m going to turn 38 ' . ''
Instead , he wants to place his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him .
Kevin explained : `` If it ’ s going to be similar to what I have already done I don ’ t see myself doing it into my forties .
I have got so many other interests and I thought , ‘ I ’ ll have to leave at some point ' '' .
Although leaving the show after seven years was a pretty huge risk for Kevin , there 's no doubt that it 's paid off as the star has already landed his 'dream job ' .
The 37-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead part of Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical .
Strictly Ballroom The Musical tells the story of a professional dancer Scott who partners up with beginner Fran after his radical dance style irritates the Australian Federation .
The pair find courage to defy dancing traditions with their performances .
Overwhelmed Kevin shared his excitement to chase his dreams of starring in a theatrical adaptation of Baz Luhrmann 's 1992 film .
He says : `` I 'm beyond excited to be finally fulfilling a lifelong ambition to play Scott Hastings in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was 10 years old I first watched the movie that would become my favourite film of all time .
This is my dream role . ''
But it wo n't be completely unfamiliar faces as the choreographer will reunite with Strictly 's judge Craig Revel Horwood .
He adds : `` Plus I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood again !
`` I really ca n't wait to don the golden jacket and waltz all over the UK from September this year in what 's set to be an incredible show @ @

The 37-year-old professional dancer revealed that he threw in the towel because he didn't want to be the oldest two-stepper in the cast
Strictly Come Dancing's Kevin Clifton admits he quit the show because he felt 'too old'
Kevin Clifton has revealed the reason why he left Strictly Come Dancing.
The 37-year-old professional dancer revealed that he threw in the towel because he didn't want to be the oldest two-stepper in the cast.
The flame-footed star - who won the show back in 2018 with his now girlfriend Stacey Dooley - said that by him leaving, it will give younger dancers a chance at showing off their talent on the hit show.
"Me leaving gives younger dancers the chance to come through now. Nobody is bigger than the show," he told The Sun.
Image: PA) PA)
Kevin - who has appeared on Strictly for the past seven years - stated that he couldn't see himself progressing on the show any longer as he's about to hit his forties.
"At age 23 it would be different. I’d look at it and think, ‘I can stay on this for the next ten or 15 years’, but at 37 years old I was thinking, ‘I’m going to turn 38'."
Instead, he wants to place his focus on other vessels of importance to him.
Image: BBC/PA) BBC/PA)
Kevin explained: "If it’s going to be similar to what I have already done I don’t see myself doing it into my forties. I have got so many other interests and I thought, ‘I’ll have to leave at some point'".
Although leaving the show after seven years was a pretty huge risk for Kevin, there's no doubt that it's paid off as the star has already landed his 'dream job'.
The 37-year-old will take to the stage as the lead part of Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical.
Image: PA) PA)
Strictly Ballroom The Musical tells the story of a professional dancer Scott who partners up with beginner Fran after his radical dance style irritates the Australian Federation.
The pair find courage to defy dancing traditions with their performances.
Overwhelmed Kevin shared his excitement to chase his dreams of starring in a theatrical adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's 1992 film.
Image: Internet Unknown) Internet Unknown)
He says: "I'm beyond excited to be finally fulfilling a lifelong ambition to play Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical.
"When I was 10 years old I first watched the movie that would become my favourite film of all time. This is my dream role."
But it won't be completely unfamiliar faces as the choreographer will reunite with Strictly's judge Craig Revel Horwood.
Craig is the musical show's director.
He adds: "Plus I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood again!
"I really can't wait to don the golden jacket and waltz all over the UK from September this year in what's set to be an incredible show."


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Mirror editor Alison Phillips' message to readers during coronavirus crisis

In uncertain times we all cling to the things we trust and treasure .
To family , to friends , to the memories of good times .
And we know – because you ’ ve told us – that you also cling to the paper you trust : The Mirror .
There has been no time in this nation ’ s history since the Second World War more uncertain than now .
But for 117 years the Mirror has informed and reassured our readers .
And now , in this current crisis , we pledge to continue doing just that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a loved one – can still keep receiving your Mirror , today we ’ ve come up with a way you can have it delivered straight to your letterbox .
With no delivery fee .
For 12 weeks .
Because the Mirror is more than just a paper .
We are a family .
There are our brilliant writers .
There are our reporters across the country .
There are the printers who man the presses every night .
And you – our readers .
Like any family we stick together when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mirror will bring you the most up to date news on the coronavirus .
We will hold the scientists and politicians making decisions about our future to account .
Veteran Mirror man Paul Routledge will share his diary from self-isolation .
We ’ ll have regular pullouts packed with useful information and helpful tips .
We ’ ll give you something to smile about too , including eight pages of puzzles to test your brain .
However challenging the next few months may become , we ’ ll be here for you .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The Mirror's journalists will continue to provide brilliant coverage to its family of readers during this crisis - just as it has done for the past 117 years
Dear Readers,
In uncertain times we all cling to the things we trust and treasure.
To family, to friends, to the memories of good times.
And we know – because you’ve told us – that you also cling to the paper you trust: The Mirror.
There has been no time in this nation’s history since the Second World War more uncertain than now.
But for 117 years the Mirror has informed and reassured our readers. And now, in this current crisis, we pledge to continue doing just that.
And to make sure you – or a loved one – can still keep receiving your Mirror, today we’ve come up with a way you can have it delivered straight to your letterbox. With no delivery fee. For 12 weeks.
Because the Mirror is more than just a paper. We are a family. There are our brilliant writers. There are our reporters across the country. There are the printers who man the presses every night.
And you – our readers.
Like any family we stick together when times are tough.
Every day the Mirror will bring you the most up to date news on the coronavirus. We will hold the scientists and politicians making
decisions about our future to account.
Dr Miriam Stoppard will answer your questions.
Veteran Mirror man Paul Routledge will share his diary from self-isolation. We’ll have regular pullouts packed with useful information and helpful tips.
We’ll give you something to smile about too, including eight pages of puzzles to test your brain.
However challenging the next few months may become, we’ll be here for you. Together we’ll get through this.
Alison Phillips, Editor


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Salford boss Ian Blease calls for Government to help save rugby league

Salford director Ian Blease has called on the Government to help save rugby league - after warning many clubs would be in danger after a month without action .
Blease believes a portion of the £350 billion package to help businesses during the coronavirus pandemic should be put aside for the sport because of the role it plays in local communities .
A working party to press rugby league ’ s case has been set up and Blease - whose club reached last year ’ s Grand Final - says financial aid is needed quickly .
The Red Devils boss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same as any other club - missing the game against Castleford this weekend is a large part of our income straight out of our budget .
But we ’ re not on our own - this is every club and all sports .
“ What did please me at the meeting of clubs on Monday was how the RFL and Super League are working together .
The RFL have been tremendous , I ’ d like to say that .
“ I went into the meeting with a game-wide vision - we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from St Helens to Whitehaven .
We ’ re all going to suffer , it ’ s just pro rata between us and a club like Wigan , Warrington or Saints .
We ’ re the smaller version within Super League but it won ’ t be easy for any club to pull through this .
“ It ’ s a big worry , but what was reassuring about Monday ’ s meeting is that it ’ s not about the size of your club , we ’ re all in this together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or so without the income generated from home games , sponsorship and hospitality .
“ It could be horrific - and every club around that table recognised what is round the corner for them in a month or two.
” Blease believes that Government assistance would go a long way to providing clubs with some stability in a time of significant uncertainty .
He said : “ We are working in the background on putting a package together for that to try and make sure we don ’ t let any clubs go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures to help businesses and I know a working party has been put together to look at this .
“ There has to be some Government help , not just for Super League but the whole game .
They have invested heavily in the World Cup next year but if there ’ s no game and no players then there ’ s no World Cup .
“ It ’ s longer term than just what ’ s happening right now - it ’ s about next year and the year after that.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their local areas should be taken into account .
He added : “ Everything we do at Salford is based around the community and working alongside businesses in the city , and they would suffer as well .
“ We ’ ve put a statement out for fans to keep backing us and there ’ s been a great response , but we can ’ t do it on our own .
We always go back to them when we ’ re in need but this is bigger than that .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local communities since day dot , the day it was formed , and it ’ s still the same now .
Togetherness is what our sport has been built on .
“ It ’ s an all inclusive sport that welcomes everybody with open arms no matter what gender or generation , and it plays a huge part in local communities everywhere it is .
”

Blease warns clubs could be in trouble within a month of no action but are united in difficult times
Salford director Ian Blease has called on the Government to help save rugby league - after warning many clubs would be in danger after a month without action.
Blease believes a portion of the £350 billion package to help businesses during the coronavirus pandemic should be put aside for the sport because of the role it plays in local communities.
A working party to press rugby league’s case has been set up and Blease - whose club reached last year’s Grand Final - says financial aid is needed quickly.
The Red Devils boss said: “We’re the same as any other club - missing the game against Castleford this weekend is a large part of our income straight out of our budget. But we’re not on our own - this is every club and all sports.
Image: Steve McCormick/Salford Red Devils) Steve McCormick/Salford Red Devils)
“What did please me at the meeting of clubs on Monday was how the RFL and Super League are working together. The RFL have been tremendous, I’d like to say that.
“I went into the meeting with a game-wide vision - we’re all in the same boat, from St Helens to Whitehaven. We’re all going to suffer, it’s just pro rata between us and a club like Wigan, Warrington or Saints. We’re the smaller version within Super League but it won’t be easy for any club to pull through this.
“It’s a big worry, but what was reassuring about Monday’s meeting is that it’s not about the size of your club, we’re all in this together. Everybody would only last a month or so without the income generated from home games, sponsorship and hospitality.
“It could be horrific - and every club around that table recognised what is round the corner for them in a month or two.”
Blease believes that Government assistance would go a long way to providing clubs with some stability in a time of significant uncertainty.
He said: “We are working in the background on putting a package together for that to try and make sure we don’t let any clubs go. The Government has come out with measures to help businesses and I know a working party has been put together to look at this.
Image: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com) Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com)
“There has to be some Government help, not just for Super League but the whole game. They have invested heavily in the World Cup next year but if there’s no game and no players then there’s no World Cup.
“It’s longer term than just what’s happening right now - it’s about next year and the year after that.”
Blease also says the work clubs do in their local areas should be taken into account.
He added: “Everything we do at Salford is based around the community and working alongside businesses in the city, and they would suffer as well.
“We’ve put a statement out for fans to keep backing us and there’s been a great response, but we can’t do it on our own. We always go back to them when we’re in need but this is bigger than that.
“Rugby league has been part of its local communities since day dot, the day it was formed, and it’s still the same now. Togetherness is what our sport has been built on.
“It’s an all inclusive sport that welcomes everybody with open arms no matter what gender or generation, and it plays a huge part in local communities everywhere it is.”


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--WWE star Sheamus on his ultimate goal now he's back in action

WWE superstar Sheamus says he is aiming to become the first ever Irish Grand Slam Champion .
The 42-year-old is back on SmackDown , where he looks to re-establish himself after the best part of 12 months recovering from injury .
And with WrestleMania 36 on the horizon , he has set his sights firmly on winning Sami Zayn 's Intercontinental Championship , which would allow him to enter an exclusive club .
The Grand Slam is an accomplishment given to a wrestler able to win a combination of four specific titles , last revised by WWE in 2015 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ winning either the WWE Championship or Universal Championship , either Raw or SmackDown 's tag team titles , and both the Intercontinental and United States belts .
The Celtic Warrior , real name Stephen Farrelly , is a three-time WWE Champion , five-time tag team champion , and two-time U.S. Champion .
That means capturing the famous IC title is all that stands between him cementing his place in history alongside 21 other men , and joining an elite group including the likes of Shawn Michaels , Triple H , Kurt Angle , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to Mirror Sport 's Matty Paddock , the Dublin-born star also discussed how he feared his career might be over , why his tag team with Cesaro reached the end of the line , and the opponents he would love to face , including a longtime friend in his dream WrestleMania main event .
We have to start with your health and fitness after your injury and absence - how is everything in that respect and how are you feeling being back in the groove of things ?
Personally , and physically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never felt better , man .
I 'm training as often as I can , although this week has been a bit of a sidestep in training with so much media and travel , but it 's probably good for my body to get a bit of a break .
I feel great .
In regard to WWE , since I got back , I do n't feel as though I 've really got going , but I am always ready to go .
Always ready .
The enforced absence has kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the minds of some fans , maybe start from scratch a little , has n't it ?
Yeah , listen , I enjoyed doing the backstage promos , they were kind of edgy , but the only problem was that they were a bit vague in terms of what they were trying to describe , but I had fun doing them and trying to get a bit of intensity out of the character , because that was what got me here in the first place .
When I was in The Bar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know ?
Me and Cesaro were always taking the p*** !
There 's definitely a different mindset for Sheamus now , and the only thing he 's focusing on is the Intercontinental Championship .
That 's his one motivation .
The only thing I wish WWE would do is give me back my old music !
Everyone has been asking for it , but the men in charge are telling me they do n't ever remember hearing it !
Going back to your recovery ; obviously it was difficult , but how did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Because it was such a long absence , the better part of a year since you 've been in the ring on television ... All I could do was to take it one day at a time and see where I was at .
I had an idea on how I wanted to look physically , and to get in shape and stay in shape .
The hardest part was getting back into the ring .
I got back in with Dr Tom Prichard , who has a school in Knoxville , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me when I was in FCW .
It was tough , man .
That ring is stiff , but it 's a good stiff because people come in and need to learn that it 's not an easy business , it 's very physical .
They used to do this thing called Man in the Middle where you stand in the middle of the ring and there are guys in each corner , they come at you and you have to move with each one of them .
It 's kind of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we used to do it all the time .
So [ in recovery ] I said 'Doc , let 's do Man in the Middle ' , and he 'd look at me like I was insane !
It was tough , but you have got to get your confidence back in the ring .
You still get nervous going in the ring and get butterflies in the stomach , but now it ’ s business as usual .
Because you had to work so long and so hard , as positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a point when you questioned whether you wanted to come back ?
Just before I got the concussion and went out , me and Cesaro were definitely trying to keep it together because The Bar had kind of run into a cul-de-sac , and it was frustrating .
We 'd lost at WrestleMania – and that was fine , you do n't care about [ losing ] because it 's about putting on the best possible show , but what was really frustrating was the Monday at Raw .
They announced a champion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supposed to be off .
Then we got this text saying we had to come to television .
We 'd both made plans to do stuff and had to go in , and were told that we 'd be interrupting the match , and would be having a tag match .
The crowd just s*** all over it .
It was the post-Mania crowd , they were amped up and wanted to see the champion versus champion match , and they felt cheated .
We were fighting a losing battle with that all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I felt at that point that we were swimming upstream and that everything we 'd worked hard to create was being undone .
SmackDown was the next night and I ended up getting a bad concussion .
I was sitting on the couch and had no energy for a couple of weeks .
I was just zonked , mate .
I just did n't know .
I 'd had a few concussions before but , at that time , I just did n't know ; did n't know what the next step was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrestle again .
With the time off , I was so productive .
I went to physical therapy and worked on the imbalances in my body and put my head into the YouTube channel while training with Aleister Black and Edge .
That 's when I realised – when I was with Edge and he was in the best shape of his life .
I was looking at all the titles on the wall that I 'd won , and there was Edge who was still so passionate about the business but , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back at the time .
I realised I was n't finished and still had so much more to achieve - and that 's gon na start with the Intercontinental title .
That ’ s all that 's on my mind , mate .
Sami Zayn has it now and he has a big target on his back !
That kind of answers my next point , but you 're ready , I guess , for a more established and defined storyline , after spending the last month or so smashing people ?
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d like to work with ?
Yeah so , again , just to reiterate , I want to win the Intercontinental Championship and become the first ever Irish WWE Grand Slam Champion – that 's the goal right now .
With regard to other talent , I 've had one match with AJ [ Styles ] which was great , and I l 'd love to work with him again .
I love [ Shinsuke ] Nakamura 's style , but , ultimately , I think Rusev would be great .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as close friends as we are now .
I feel like me and Drew [ McIntyre ] have never had a proper crack at it on the main stage… there 's no doubt in my mind that I 'd like to main event WrestleMania with him , it would be so physical !
The fact we came up together and started when we wrestled on the Indies 15 years ago , to where we are now .
That 's another one on the bucket list - and Finn Balor as well !
John @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 's back , and he 's in real shape .
It goes to show age is just a number !
You 'll have kept a close eye on the wrestling landscape while you ’ ve been away - what do you think of where it is at now in respect of NXT and AEW on Wednesdays , the FOX deal for WWE , the entire thing .
How do you find it ?
There 's a lot of hunger out there because a lot of people are getting a platform to perform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afraid or intimidated by talent .
You have to rise to it .
If someone is coming up with a great ethic , and they 're great in the ring , you have to use that to spur on to work better and be better .
You hear all these rumours ; 'so and so has been held down… ! '
I 'm not aware of any of that stuff , I 've always embraced the talent coming in and the challenge of it .
That 's what it is , mate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be competitive with yourself and other people .
If they 're working hard , you have to work harder .
That 's great for everybody and , most importantly , for the fans .
If you 're doing the same old thing every week , they 're not going to tune in or turn up at the shows .
So it 's a win-win for everybody and I think it 's fantastic .
I 'd love to go over to NXT UK and wrestle Walter and get my hands on the NXT or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to win everything I can before they drag me out of the ring and tell me I ca n't do this anymore .
There 's no ego involved , man .
You see the guys working hard for those titles , and they 're giving legitimacy to all of those titles , and that 's the goal .
BT Sport is the exclusive live broadcaster of WWE in the UK .
Watch WrestleMania 36 on BT Sport Box Office WWE on Sunday , April 5 .

EXCLUSIVE: The Celtic Warrior is looking to join an elite group now he has overcome injury to return to SmackDown and has Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn in his sights
WWE superstar Sheamus says he is aiming to become the first ever Irish Grand Slam Champion.
The 42-year-old is back on SmackDown, where he looks to re-establish himself after the best part of 12 months recovering from injury.
And with WrestleMania 36 on the horizon, he has set his sights firmly on winning Sami Zayn's Intercontinental Championship, which would allow him to enter an exclusive club.
The Grand Slam is an accomplishment given to a wrestler able to win a combination of four specific titles, last revised by WWE in 2015.
Under the current format, this means winning either the WWE Championship or Universal Championship, either Raw or SmackDown's tag team titles, and both the Intercontinental and United States belts.
The Celtic Warrior, real name Stephen Farrelly, is a three-time WWE Champion, five-time tag team champion, and two-time U.S. Champion.
That means capturing the famous IC title is all that stands between him cementing his place in history alongside 21 other men, and joining an elite group including the likes of Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Kurt Angle, Eddie Guerrero and Daniel Bryan.
Opening up to Mirror Sport's Matty Paddock, the Dublin-born star also discussed how he feared his career might be over, why his tag team with Cesaro reached the end of the line, and the opponents he would love to face, including a longtime friend in his dream WrestleMania main event.
Image: © WWE) © WWE)
We have to start with your health and fitness after your injury and absence - how is everything in that respect and how are you feeling being back in the groove of things?
Personally, and physically, I feel great. I've never felt better, man. I'm training as often as I can, although this week has been a bit of a sidestep in training with so much media and travel, but it's probably good for my body to get a bit of a break. I feel great. In regard to WWE, since I got back, I don't feel as though I've really got going, but I am always ready to go. Always ready.
The enforced absence has kind of allowed you to re-establish yourself and, in the minds of some fans, maybe start from scratch a little, hasn't it?
Yeah, listen, I enjoyed doing the backstage promos, they were kind of edgy, but the only problem was that they were a bit vague in terms of what they were trying to describe, but I had fun doing them and trying to get a bit of intensity out of the character, because that was what got me here in the first place. When I was in The Bar I joked around a lot, you know? Me and Cesaro were always taking the p***! There's definitely a different mindset for Sheamus now, and the only thing he's focusing on is the Intercontinental Championship. That's his one motivation. The only thing I wish WWE would do is give me back my old music! Everyone has been asking for it, but the men in charge are telling me they don't ever remember hearing it!
Image: © WWE) © WWE)
Going back to your recovery; obviously it was difficult, but how did you cope in terms of a mindset? Because it was such a long absence, the better part of a year since you've been in the ring on television...
All I could do was to take it one day at a time and see where I was at. I had an idea on how I wanted to look physically, and to get in shape and stay in shape. The hardest part was getting back into the ring. I got back in with Dr Tom Prichard, who has a school in Knoxville, and was the one who originally trained me when I was in FCW. It was tough, man. That ring is stiff, but it's a good stiff because people come in and need to learn that it's not an easy business, it's very physical. They used to do this thing called Man in the Middle where you stand in the middle of the ring and there are guys in each corner, they come at you and you have to move with each one of them. It's kind of a ring cardio session that lasts 25 minutes and we used to do it all the time. So [in recovery] I said 'Doc, let's do Man in the Middle', and he'd look at me like I was insane! It was tough, but you have got to get your confidence back in the ring. You still get nervous going in the ring and get butterflies in the stomach, but now it’s business as usual.
Image: © WWE) © WWE)
Because you had to work so long and so hard, as positive as you were, was there ever a point when you questioned whether you wanted to come back?
Just before I got the concussion and went out, me and Cesaro were definitely trying to keep it together because The Bar had kind of run into a cul-de-sac, and it was frustrating. We'd lost at WrestleMania – and that was fine, you don't care about [losing] because it's about putting on the best possible show, but what was really frustrating was the Monday at Raw. They announced a champion versus champion match, and we were supposed to be off. Then we got this text saying we had to come to television. We'd both made plans to do stuff and had to go in, and were told that we'd be interrupting the match, and would be having a tag match.
The crowd just s*** all over it. It was the post-Mania crowd, they were amped up and wanted to see the champion versus champion match, and they felt cheated. We were fighting a losing battle with that all the way. It was tough. I felt at that point that we were swimming upstream and that everything we'd worked hard to create was being undone. SmackDown was the next night and I ended up getting a bad concussion.
I was sitting on the couch and had no energy for a couple of weeks. I was just zonked, mate. I just didn't know. I'd had a few concussions before but, at that time, I just didn't know; didn't know what the next step was or whether I'd be able to wrestle again. With the time off, I was so productive. I went to physical therapy and worked on the imbalances in my body and put my head into the YouTube channel while training with Aleister Black and Edge.
That's when I realised – when I was with Edge and he was in the best shape of his life. I was looking at all the titles on the wall that I'd won, and there was Edge who was still so passionate about the business but, at the time, couldn't come back at the time. I realised I wasn't finished and still had so much more to achieve - and that's gonna start with the Intercontinental title. That’s all that's on my mind, mate. Sami Zayn has it now and he has a big target on his back!
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That kind of answers my next point, but you're ready, I guess, for a more established and defined storyline, after spending the last month or so smashing people? And what about the kind of talents you’d like to work with?
Yeah so, again, just to reiterate, I want to win the Intercontinental Championship and become the first ever Irish WWE Grand Slam Champion – that's the goal right now. With regard to other talent, I've had one match with AJ [Styles] which was great, and I l'd love to work with him again. I love [Shinsuke] Nakamura's style, but, ultimately, I think Rusev would be great. When we worked together before we weren't as close friends as we are now. I feel like me and Drew [McIntyre] have never had a proper crack at it on the main stage… there's no doubt in my mind that I'd like to main event WrestleMania with him, it would be so physical! The fact we came up together and started when we wrestled on the Indies 15 years ago, to where we are now. That's another one on the bucket list - and Finn Balor as well! John Morrison is great, I'm delighted he's back, and he's in real shape. It goes to show age is just a number!
Image: WWE) WWE)
You'll have kept a close eye on the wrestling landscape while you’ve been away - what do you think of where it is at now in respect of NXT and AEW on Wednesdays, the FOX deal for WWE, the entire thing. How do you find it?
There's a lot of hunger out there because a lot of people are getting a platform to perform on, and you can't be afraid or intimidated by talent. You have to rise to it. If someone is coming up with a great ethic, and they're great in the ring, you have to use that to spur on to work better and be better. You hear all these rumours; 'so and so has been held down…!' I'm not aware of any of that stuff, I've always embraced the talent coming in and the challenge of it. That's what it is, mate. It's competition - you have to be competitive with yourself and other people. If they're working hard, you have to work harder.
That's great for everybody and, most importantly, for the fans. If you're doing the same old thing every week, they're not going to tune in or turn up at the shows. So it's a win-win for everybody and I think it's fantastic. I'd love to go over to NXT UK and wrestle Walter and get my hands on the NXT or the NXT UK championships. I want to win everything I can before they drag me out of the ring and tell me I can't do this anymore. There's no ego involved, man. You see the guys working hard for those titles, and they're giving legitimacy to all of those titles, and that's the goal.
BT Sport is the exclusive live broadcaster of WWE in the UK. Watch WrestleMania 36 on BT Sport Box Office WWE on Sunday, April 5.
For more info visit www.bt.com/btsportboxoffice


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Bruce says completing league season behind closed doors would be 'pointless'

Steve Bruce has told the Premier League it is 'pointless ' to complete the season by playing games behind-closed-doors .
That is one of the options clubs will consider in a top level meeting on Thursday .
Bruce has sent his players home to keep fit , and admits it already feels like the 'end of the season ' .
Top flight teams could be asked to play out their last nine or ten games in empty stadiums because of the ban on mass gatherings , if squads stay virus free .
But that would allow games to be broadcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BT Sport being breached , and huge compensation payments being due .
Bruce would be happy for Newcastle to be safe in the league and 13th , but was looking forward to chasing last season ’ s points total of 45 .
He said “ For me , playing behind closed doors is something which I ca n't see the point of .
`` The whole thing that makes our football club is the 50,000 supporters that come and get behind us .
`` Without that , you may get a result but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're governed by the authorities and we will see what they come up with .
“ All of a sudden this ( Covid-19 ) consumes your mind .
`` Last week we prepared for a game against Sheffield United and now we 've got players training individually .
`` Training grounds are being shut down because of the environment we find ourselves in .
It 's really difficult for everybody but the most important thing is the wellbeing of supporters .
For me , it 's the players and the staff too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Arsenal manager has contracted it , health and people 's lives is far more important than a football match.
” UEFA have already announced the postponement of Euro 2020 until the summer of 2021 , with the new dates of June 11 to July 11 , 2021 proposed .

Football has been suspended amid the coronavirus crisis and Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce doesn't want the season to be completed behind closed doors
Steve Bruce says completing Premier League season behind closed doors would be 'pointless'
Steve Bruce has told the Premier League it is 'pointless' to complete the season by playing games behind-closed-doors.
That is one of the options clubs will consider in a top level meeting on Thursday.
Bruce has sent his players home to keep fit, and admits it already feels like the 'end of the season'.
Top flight teams could be asked to play out their last nine or ten games in empty stadiums because of the ban on mass gatherings, if squads stay virus free.
But that would allow games to be broadcast live preventing TV contract with Sky and BT Sport being breached, and huge compensation payments being due.
Image: Action Images via Reuters) Action Images via Reuters)
Bruce would be happy for Newcastle to be safe in the league and 13th, but was looking forward to chasing last season’s points total of 45.
He said “For me, playing behind closed doors is something which I can't see the point of.
"The whole thing that makes our football club is the 50,000 supporters that come and get behind us.
Image: Action Images via Reuters) Action Images via Reuters)
"Without that, you may get a result but it's not for me and we're governed by the authorities and we will see what they come up with.
“All of a sudden this (Covid-19) consumes your mind.
"Last week we prepared for a game against Sheffield United and now we've got players training individually.
"Training grounds are being shut down because of the environment we find ourselves in. It's really difficult for everybody but the most important thing is the wellbeing of supporters. For me, it's the players and the staff too.
“When the breaking news comes that the Arsenal manager has contracted it, health and people's lives is far more important than a football match.”
UEFA have already announced the postponement of Euro 2020 until the summer of 2021, with the new dates of June 11 to July 11, 2021 proposed.


thedailymirror--2020-03-18--Man tries to escape coronavirus quarantine by dressing in s T-rex costume

A man who tested positive for coronavirus was reportedly arrested after walking in the street wearing a T-Rex dinosaur outfit to take his rubbish outside .
Footage of the man dressed as an enormous brown dinosaur was posted by Murcia Police who intercepted him in the street , while Spain is on lockdown as it battles to halt the spread of the coronavirus .
Writing on Twitter , Murcia Police said while dog owners can go on short walks , dinosaurs can not .
They wrote : `` During state of alarm , walking of pets is allowed if accompanied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so they can relieve themselves .
Having a Tyrannosaurus rex is not covered .
# stayathome.
” They said : “ He went to put the rubbish out .
It 's a justified trip out of the house .
A little humour is not a bad thing at the moment .
He 's made us all laugh . '
A day earlier Murcia Police , located in the southeastern Spanish city , reminded nationals of the quarantine rules : `` Remember that you can go outside during the ESSENTIAL TIME so that our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forget to collect their droppings .
Do not use your pet as an excuse to break the rules . ''
Spain is in lockdown as it edges closer to Iran in the number of coronavirus cases after reporting 13,910 in dramatic rise .
It has the fourth highest number of cases worldwide and has seen 623 deaths .
Prime minister Pedro Sanchez told a near-empty Parliament this morning : `` We have never lived through anything like this .
`` And our society , which had grown used to changes that expand our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life , now finds itself in a war to defend all we have taken for granted.
” Another commented the police had overreacted , adding “ You can put your rubbish out , right ?
What does it matter how he does it ?
It 's best to do it with a little bit of fun than go mad.
” '' It is clear that annual GDP will fall , as the European Commission has already pointed out .
2020 will not have 12 months , but 10 or even 9 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the production structure as long as the crisis lasts without major and irreparable damage , at the end of the crisis there would be a quick recovery , including a possible rebound effect that would accelerate activity . ''
On Saturday , the Spanish government declared a two-week state of emergency .
Mr Sanchez said Spain will `` mobilise all resources '' , including the military , to contain a sharp rise in cases .
It comes after more than 60,000 people were confined to four towns in Spain 's first mandatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the capital Madrid has seen nearly 2,000 positive cases .
The country had more than 4,200 cases by Friday afternoon and at least 120 deaths .
The royal palace said King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have tested negative for Covid-19 .
The royal couple took the test on Thursday after the government confirmed the infection of equality minister Irene Montero , who had attended an event with the queen last week .
Another cabinet member was also confirmed to be infected after all the panel was tested .

Police told a man who tested positive for coronavirus and dressed as a T-Rex that people were permitted to take dogs out briefly - but not dinosaurs
A man who tested positive for coronavirus was reportedly arrested after walking in the street wearing a T-Rex dinosaur outfit to take his rubbish outside.
Footage of the man dressed as an enormous brown dinosaur was posted by Murcia Police who intercepted him in the street, while Spain is on lockdown as it battles to halt the spread of the coronavirus.
Writing on Twitter, Murcia Police said while dog owners can go on short walks, dinosaurs cannot. They wrote: "During state of alarm, walking of pets is allowed if accompanied by one person, always short walks so they can relieve themselves. Having a Tyrannosaurus rex is not covered. #stayathome.”
One viewer defended the trip.
They said: “He went to put the rubbish out. It's a justified trip out of the house. A little humour is not a bad thing at the moment. He's made us all laugh.'
Image: Policía Local Murcia/Twitter) Policía Local Murcia/Twitter)
A day earlier Murcia Police, located in the southeastern Spanish city, reminded nationals of the quarantine rules: "Remember that you can go outside during the ESSENTIAL TIME so that our pet meets his needs and do not forget to collect their droppings. Do not use your pet as an excuse to break the rules."
Spain is in lockdown as it edges closer to Iran in the number of coronavirus cases after reporting 13,910 in dramatic rise. It has the fourth highest number of cases worldwide and has seen 623 deaths.
Prime minister Pedro Sanchez told a near-empty Parliament this morning: "We have never lived through anything like this.
"And our society, which had grown used to changes that expand our possibilities of knowledge, health, and life, now finds itself in a war to defend all we have taken for granted.”
Image: Policía Local Murcia/Twitter) Policía Local Murcia/Twitter) Image: Policía Local Murcia/Twitter) Policía Local Murcia/Twitter)
Another commented the police had overreacted, adding “You can put your rubbish out, right? What does it matter how he does it? It's best to do it with a little bit of fun than go mad.”
"It is clear that annual GDP will fall, as the European Commission has already pointed out. 2020 will not have 12 months, but 10 or even 9.
"If we manage to maintain employment levels and the production structure as long as the crisis lasts without major and irreparable damage, at the end of the crisis there would be a quick recovery, including a possible rebound effect that would accelerate activity."
On Saturday, the Spanish government declared a two-week state of emergency.
Mr Sanchez said Spain will "mobilise all resources", including the military, to contain a sharp rise in cases.
It comes after more than 60,000 people were confined to four towns in Spain's first mandatory lockdown. The situation in and around the capital Madrid has seen nearly 2,000 positive cases.
The country had more than 4,200 cases by Friday afternoon and at least 120 deaths.
The royal palace said King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have tested negative for Covid-19.
The royal couple took the test on Thursday after the government confirmed the infection of equality minister Irene Montero, who had attended an event with the queen last week.
Another cabinet member was also confirmed to be infected after all the panel was tested.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Ryan Thomas shares first snap of baby Roman Ravello as he rocks trendy papoose

Ryan Thomas has shared the first picture of himself with his newborn baby son .
The former Coronation Street star , 35 , welcomed little Roman Ravello with fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh last week , and he already appears to be lapping up his new dad life .
Ryan finally broke his Instagram silence after a month to share the sweet snap of himself and his little boy this evening .
Posing up a storm in front a huge mirror , the former Corrie star looked the picture of cool as he rocked a trendy papoose .
Keeping with the baby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all blue outfit as he sported some cut-off shorts and a patterned hoodie .
Ryan finished off the trendy look with a pair of oversized sunnies and a baseball hat to match .
Alongside the wholesome family snap , the new dad admitted that he does n't mind being stuck indoors during self-isolation thanks to the new addition to his clan .
Posting to his one million followers , he wrote : `` Our first walk.. this one makes staying home so much better . ''
Fans rushed to share their love for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revealed how glad they were to see him back active on Instagram .
`` Welcome back to social media , we missed you .
This picture is beyond precious ! ''
one fan insisted .
While others shared : `` The papoose suits you so much .
What a cute photo .
Congrats ! ''
. ''
Ryan Thomas wearing a papoose .
Well I never thought I 'd see the day !
Love this and love you ! ''
.
Ryan 's post comes after Lucy Mecklenburgh shared a stunning photo of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roman home from hospital .
The ex-TOWIE star , 28 , gave birth to her baby boy two weeks ago .
In the snap , which she shared to Instagram on Monday night , Lucy was seen looking lovingly at Roman while his proud dad carried him out in his car seat .
Dressed in a comfortable tracksuit , Lucy had her back to the camera as they walked out of the hospital as a family of three for the first time .
In the caption Lucy called the moment `` surreal '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home from the hospital .
She wrote : `` This was one of the most surreal moments of my life that I will cherish forever .
`` When we left hospital to head home with our new baby .
`` On our way home I 've never seen Ryan drive so slowly & sensibly in my life .
`` I sat in the back watching my beautiful boy . ''
The baby 's full name is Roman Ravello Thomas and his name has a special meaning from Lucy 's relationship with babydaddy Ryan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ town in Italy where Ryan popped the question to Lucy last summer .

PREGNANT LUCY MECKLENBURGH TRIES TO INDUCE LABOR WITH CURRY
PREGNANT LUCY MECKLENBURGH TRIES TO INDUCE LABOR WITH CURRY
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The former Coronation Street star is enjoying being a new dad after welcoming his newborn son with fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh last week
Ryan Thomas shares first snap of baby Roman as he rocks trendy papoose in self-isolation
Ryan Thomas has shared the first picture of himself with his newborn baby son.
The former Coronation Street star, 35, welcomed little Roman Ravello with fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh last week, and he already appears to be lapping up his new dad life.
Ryan finally broke his Instagram silence after a month to share the sweet snap of himself and his little boy this evening.
Posing up a storm in front a huge mirror, the former Corrie star looked the picture of cool as he rocked a trendy papoose.
Keeping with the baby boy theme, the 35-year-old donned an all blue outfit as he sported some cut-off shorts and a patterned hoodie.
Image: Ryan Thomas/Instagram) Ryan Thomas/Instagram)
Ryan finished off the trendy look with a pair of oversized sunnies and a baseball hat to match.
Alongside the wholesome family snap, the new dad admitted that he doesn't mind being stuck indoors during self-isolation thanks to the new addition to his clan.
Posting to his one million followers, he wrote: "Our first walk.. this one makes staying home so much better."
Fans rushed to share their love for the star's lastest post as they revealed how glad they were to see him back active on Instagram.
Image: ryanthomas84/Instagram) ryanthomas84/Instagram)
"Welcome back to social media, we missed you. This picture is beyond precious!" one fan insisted.
While others shared: "The papoose suits you so much. What a cute photo. Congrats!".
" Ryan Thomas wearing a papoose. Well I never thought I'd see the day! Love this and love you!".
"So cute! A boys day out. Hope you're keeping safe!" a fourth echoed.
Image: lucymeck1/Instagram) lucymeck1/Instagram)
Ryan's post comes after Lucy Mecklenburgh shared a stunning photo of the moment she took her baby son Roman home from hospital.
The ex-TOWIE star, 28, gave birth to her baby boy two weeks ago.
In the snap, which she shared to Instagram on Monday night, Lucy was seen looking lovingly at Roman while his proud dad carried him out in his car seat.
Dressed in a comfortable tracksuit, Lucy had her back to the camera as they walked out of the hospital as a family of three for the first time.
Image: Lucy Mecklenburgh/Instagram) Lucy Mecklenburgh/Instagram)
In the caption Lucy called the moment "surreal" as she opened up about the drive home from the hospital.
She wrote: "This was one of the most surreal moments of my life that I will cherish forever.
"When we left hospital to head home with our new baby.
"On our way home I've never seen Ryan drive so slowly & sensibly in my life.
"I sat in the back watching my beautiful boy."
The baby's full name is Roman Ravello Thomas and his name has a special meaning from Lucy's relationship with babydaddy Ryan.
Ravello is the name of the town in Italy where Ryan popped the question to Lucy last summer.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Ant and Dec plead with Saturday Night Takeaway viewers to help from home

Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly have pleaded with Saturday Night Takeaway viewers to help from home .
For the first time in the ITV show 's history there will be no studio audience after they were banned this week amid the coronavirus outbreak .
But the Geordie duo are working hard to put on an extravaganza , so have asked viewers at home to get involved .
Taking to Twitter , Ant and Dec asked their followers to film themselves to help out with the 'End of The Show Show ' .
In a call to arms , they wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` We have no studio audience this week so we want YOU , the audience at home , to be the stars of the # EndOfTheShowShow….. '' Film ( in landscape ) yourself , your family , your pets , whatever , dancing along to @ ollymurs Dance With Me Tonight at home , for at least 1 min…..then SUBMIT it to us .
`` And you could end up as part of a brilliant EOTSS !
See you ( and yourself ! )
on the telly !
! ''
Saturday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but will still be full of all our favourite segments .
A Saturday Night Takeaway spokesperson said : `` Ant & Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway will go ahead this weekend without a studio audience .
Our priority is safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved .
`` The show will be made with a reduced production crew and in accordance with the latest guidance from Public Health England .
`` The team are looking forward to bringing our viewers a brilliant show on Saturday evening . ''
Ant and Dec have already been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Disney World in Florida - where they were supposed to be flying out with 300 prize winners .
The usual pre-recorded sketches and pranks , including the 'Undercover ' with Bradley Walsh and 'Men In Brown ' will feature this weekend .
It is expected that they will stop sending Fleur East and Andy Peters out on location to meet viewers .
There were some subtle changes with the usual format during last weekend 's star-studded show .
The hosts made a point of using hand sanitiser before high fiving the studio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the show , Ant cast down on whether they would be back at all next week as they said their goodbyes .
Ant said : `` We will hopefully be back here next Saturday night at 7pm . ''
The pair then added : `` Have a great week – stay safe , everybody . ''
*Ant and Dec 's Saturday Night Takeaway airs Saturdays on ITV at 7pm

Saturday Night Takeaway couple snog with tongues in front of their disgusted kids
Saturday Night Takeaway couple snog with tongues in front of their disgusted kids
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Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly have called on Saturday Night Takeaway viewers to get involved after their studio audience was banned amid the coronavirus outbreak
Coronavirus: Ant and Dec plead with Saturday Night Takeaway viewers to help from home
Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly have pleaded with Saturday Night Takeaway viewers to help from home.
For the first time in the ITV show's history there will be no studio audience after they were banned this week amid the coronavirus outbreak.
But the Geordie duo are working hard to put on an extravaganza, so have asked viewers at home to get involved.
Taking to Twitter, Ant and Dec asked their followers to film themselves to help out with the 'End of The Show Show'.
In a call to arms, they wrote: "#SaturdayNightTakeaway NEEDS YOU!"
Image: ITV) ITV) Image: ITV) ITV)
"We have no studio audience this week so we want YOU, the audience at home, to be the stars of the #EndOfTheShowShow…..
"Film (in landscape) yourself, your family, your pets, whatever, dancing along to @ollymurs Dance With Me Tonight at home, for at least 1 min…..then SUBMIT it to us.
"And you could end up as part of a brilliant EOTSS! See you (and yourself!) on the telly!!"
Image: Kieron McCarron/ITV/REX) Kieron McCarron/ITV/REX)
Saturday night's episode will only be 60-minutes long but will still be full of all our favourite segments.
A Saturday Night Takeaway spokesperson said: "Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway will go ahead this weekend without a studio audience. Our priority is safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved.
"The show will be made with a reduced production crew and in accordance with the latest guidance from Public Health England.
"The team are looking forward to bringing our viewers a brilliant show on Saturday evening."
Image: ITV) ITV)
Ant and Dec have already been forced to cancel the grand finale show at Disney World in Florida - where they were supposed to be flying out with 300 prize winners.
The usual pre-recorded sketches and pranks, including the 'Undercover' with Bradley Walsh and 'Men In Brown' will feature this weekend.
It is expected that they will stop sending Fleur East and Andy Peters out on location to meet viewers.
There were some subtle changes with the usual format during last weekend's star-studded show.
Image: ITV) ITV)
The hosts made a point of using hand sanitiser before high fiving the studio audience during their entrance.
Then at the end of the show, Ant cast down on whether they would be back at all next week as they said their goodbyes.
Ant said: "We will hopefully be back here next Saturday night at 7pm."
The pair then added: "Have a great week – stay safe, everybody."
*Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway airs Saturdays on ITV at 7pm


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Angelica Ross finds out new boyfriend is engaged with a kid after posting snaps

Pose star Angelica Ross found out her new boyfriend was engaged to another woman and had a kid after posting some loved-up snaps on Twitter .
The actress , 39 , took to social media to gush about her new fella and it spectacularly backfired - but in the best possible way .
It seems that after she shared pictures of herself with her new beau , her fans did some detective work and uncovered his secret double life .
It turns out Angelica 's fella is already engaged to another woman , who he shares a child with .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a duo of loved-up pictures .
One showed her linking her man 's arm as they posed up next to a giant sculpture of bubble tea , and another was a sweet selfie that showed him planting a kiss on her cheek .
Referencing self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic , she wrote : `` Finally found him and have to distance myself from him '' an early test we ’ re committed to passing .
I miss you B '' But it seems she was then flooded with comments and messages from people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something wrong with the pictures .
Tonight , she quoted her tweet and added : `` The internet is AMAZING .
I ’ ve been talking to the mother of his son and fiancé all morning .
# PlotTwist ! ''
While another posted : `` I had to read this a few times ... ... ... '' And another replied : `` Not even a pandemic can stop men from being trash . ''
For those who were confused , one explained : `` For those who do n't get it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dating .
She posted this on Twitter and we all REJOICED in excitement .
Twitter FBI probably saw the tweet and told Angelica this man has a kid and is engaged .
Angelica was talking to his fiancé all morning . ''
As fans rushed to cheer her up , Angelica told them : `` Y ’ all are providing me with some very VERY much needed laughs right now ! ''
Angelica suggested she 'd be `` spilling the tea '' on the whole situation very soon .
Do you have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033

The Pose star, 39, posted pictures of herself cosying up to her new man just one day before she revealed internet detectives had uncovered his secret double life
Angelica Ross finds out new boyfriend is engaged with a kid after posting loved-up snaps
Pose star Angelica Ross found out her new boyfriend was engaged to another woman and had a kid after posting some loved-up snaps on Twitter.
The actress, 39, took to social media to gush about her new fella and it spectacularly backfired - but in the best possible way.
It seems that after she shared pictures of herself with her new beau, her fans did some detective work and uncovered his secret double life.
It turns out Angelica's fella is already engaged to another woman, who he shares a child with.
Just yesterday, the stunning star shared a duo of loved-up pictures.
Image: Angelica Ross/Twitter) Angelica Ross/Twitter)
One showed her linking her man's arm as they posed up next to a giant sculpture of bubble tea, and another was a sweet selfie that showed him planting a kiss on her cheek.
Referencing self-isolation amid the coronavirus pandemic, she wrote: "Finally found him and have to distance myself from him
"an early test we’re committed to passing. I miss you B"
But it seems she was then flooded with comments and messages from people who recognised him and knew there was something wrong with the pictures.
Image: @angelicaross/Twitter) @angelicaross/Twitter)
Tonight, she quoted her tweet and added: "The internet is AMAZING. I’ve been talking to the mother of his son and fiancé all morning. #PlotTwist!"
Her fans were stunned.
One commented: "I hope he's CATCHING HELL in quarantine!"
While another posted: "I had to read this a few times........."
Image: @angelicaross/Twitter) @angelicaross/Twitter)
And another replied: "Not even a pandemic can stop men from being trash."
For those who were confused, one explained: "For those who don't get it. Queen Angelica found this man and was dating. She posted this on Twitter and we all REJOICED in excitement. Twitter FBI probably saw the tweet and told Angelica this man has a kid and is engaged. Angelica was talking to his fiancé all morning."
As fans rushed to cheer her up, Angelica told them: "Y’all are providing me with some very VERY much needed laughs right now!"
Angelica suggested she'd be "spilling the tea" on the whole situation very soon.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Pulev claims Joshua fight will not take place in June due to coronavirus

Anthony Joshua 's heavyweight world title fight against Kubrat Pulev will not take place this summer , according to the Bulgarian challenger .
The rivals are due to clash on June 20 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium but the global coronavirus crisis has put that in doubt .
Even if boxing promoters are given the go-ahead to host events by then , the Premier League season may not have been completed .
Football authorities announced on Thursday that the season will not resume before April 30 and there are seven top-flight games remaining , as well as the last three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pulev said : `` It is impossible for the fight to take place on June 20 , although I am ready .
`` The match will take place a few months later , perhaps towards the end of the year . ''
Having not fought on home soil since he stopped Alexander Povetkin in 2018 , Joshua has insisted that his next fight will take place in the UK .
That would leave Wembley and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff as alternative venues and promoter Eddie Hearn admitted this week that he may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We do have a potential date in July but , right now , we are hoping June 20 can remain the date , '' he said .
`` Obviously the Premier League decision will play a big part in a number of sports ; there are plans to put new dates in place and that fight as well . ''
Any delay to Joshua 's mandatory defence against Pulev could also impact a potential undisputed fight with Tyson Fury .
Fury must first defeat Deontay Wilder for a second time - likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in to face Joshua in December .
Boxing has been cancelled in the UK until at least the end of March but the ban will inevitably stretch into April , and possibly May .
The biggest casualty so far has been the British heavyweight title fight between Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois which has been moved from next month to July 11 .
Dillian Whyte 's clash with Povetkin and Dereck Chisora 's meeting with Oleksandr Usyk in May could also be postponed .

Joshua is due to put his three heavyweight world titles on the line against mandatory challenger Pulev at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - but the fight is now in doubt
Kubrat Pulev claims Anthony Joshua fight will not take place in June due to coronavirus
Anthony Joshua's heavyweight world title fight against Kubrat Pulev will not take place this summer, according to the Bulgarian challenger.
The rivals are due to clash on June 20 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium but the global coronavirus crisis has put that in doubt.
Even if boxing promoters are given the go-ahead to host events by then, the Premier League season may not have been completed.
Football authorities announced on Thursday that the season will not resume before April 30 and there are seven top-flight games remaining, as well as the last three rounds of the FA Cup.
And Pulev said: "It is impossible for the fight to take place on June 20, although I am ready.
Image: Action Images via Reuters) Action Images via Reuters)
"The match will take place a few months later, perhaps towards the end of the year."
Having not fought on home soil since he stopped Alexander Povetkin in 2018, Joshua has insisted that his next fight will take place in the UK.
That would leave Wembley and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff as alternative venues and promoter Eddie Hearn admitted this week that he may be forced to delay the fight.
"We do have a potential date in July but, right now, we are hoping June 20 can remain the date," he said.
"Obviously the Premier League decision will play a big part in a number of sports; there are plans to put new dates in place and that fight as well."
Any delay to Joshua's mandatory defence against Pulev could also impact a potential undisputed fight with Tyson Fury.
Fury must first defeat Deontay Wilder for a second time - likely in July - but had been pencilled in to face Joshua in December.
Boxing has been cancelled in the UK until at least the end of March but the ban will inevitably stretch into April, and possibly May.
The biggest casualty so far has been the British heavyweight title fight between Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois which has been moved from next month to July 11.
Dillian Whyte's clash with Povetkin and Dereck Chisora's meeting with Oleksandr Usyk in May could also be postponed.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Man, 23, arrested for 'lying' about having coronavirus for 'Facebook experiment'

A man has been arrested and charged with pretending to have coronavirus after claiming he tested positive on Facebook .
Michael Lane Brandin turned himself into Tyler County Police after his post was reported multiple times to officers and and they launched an investigation .
The 23-year-old told police he had lied that he had the killer bug as part of a `` social experiment '' to show you should not believe everything you read online .
He was charged with false alarm and report and a bond of $ 1,000 ( £870 ) was set .
According to KJAS-TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brandin 's actions could have caused mass panic and clog up phonelines at Woodville 's Tyler County hospital .
The station also said Mr Babin believes Brandin did it to shock people and draw attention to himself .
The news comes after President Donald Trump unveiled plans to turn ships moored off the US coast into makeshift hospitals to tackle covid-19 which has killed 150 people across the US .
The President said on Wednesday that there had been developments in the US ' `` war '' against the `` Chinese virus '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with some accusing Trump of racism , although the coronavirus did originate in Chinese city Wuhan before Christmas .
The US has told Americans to avoid groups of more than 10 people and the elderly to stay home .
Trump likened the effort to the measures taken during World War Two and said it would require national `` sacrifice '' .
`` It 's a war , '' he said .
`` I view it as a , in a sense , a wartime president .
It 's a very tough situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to send cash to every American to help them through the crisis , with the amount possibly $ 1,000 or more .
The new measures come as the number of US cases jumped to nearly 6,000 across all 50 states and as Americans enter the third day of a 15-day critical period meant to `` flatten the curve '' of the virus spread .

Michael Lane Brandin turned himself into Tyler County Police and told officers his false statement was part of a 'social experiment' about reading things online
Man, 23, arrested for 'lying' about having coronavirus for 'Facebook experiment'
A man has been arrested and charged with pretending to have coronavirus after claiming he tested positive on Facebook.
Michael Lane Brandin turned himself into Tyler County Police after his post was reported multiple times to officers and and they launched an investigation.
The 23-year-old told police he had lied that he had the killer bug as part of a "social experiment" to show you should not believe everything you read online.
He was charged with false alarm and report and a bond of $1,000 (£870) was set.
According to KJAS-TV, District Attorney Lucas Babin said that Brandin's actions could have caused mass panic and clog up phonelines at Woodville's Tyler County hospital.
Image: PA) PA)
The station also said Mr Babin believes Brandin did it to shock people and draw attention to himself.
The news comes after President Donald Trump unveiled plans to turn ships moored off the US coast into makeshift hospitals to tackle covid-19 which has killed 150 people across the US.
The President said on Wednesday that there had been developments in the US' "war" against the "Chinese virus".
The term has sparked a backlash, with some accusing Trump of racism, although the coronavirus did originate in Chinese city Wuhan before Christmas.
The US has told Americans to avoid groups of more than 10 people and the elderly to stay home.
Trump likened the effort to the measures taken during World War Two and said it would require national "sacrifice".
"It's a war," he said. "I view it as a, in a sense, a wartime president. It's a very tough situation."
Trump also elaborated on plans to send cash to every American to help them through the crisis, with the amount possibly $1,000 or more.
The new measures come as the number of US cases jumped to nearly 6,000 across all 50 states and as Americans enter the third day of a 15-day critical period meant to "flatten the curve" of the virus spread.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--EastEnders star Louisa Lytton fears wedding cancellation amid coronavirus panic

British actress Louisa Lytton has opened up about her wedding fears due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The EastEnders star , 31 , is due to marry fiancé Ben Bhanvra next year , but now the couple is in isolation due to the ongoing international health crisis .
As the Ruby Allen actress answered questions from her followers on her Instagram , she was asked what she was doing to pass the time while in self-imposed quarantine .
Louisa replied : `` I 'm going to learn a language and continue to plan my wedding and keep praying it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on whether she expected hers and Ben 's nuptials to go ahead , Louisa opened up about her worries .
She said : `` Yeah , I mean , please please please , let it be .
It 's not for a little while so I think we 're going to be all right .
Scary times . ''
Ben and Louisa have been dating for over a year and got engaged while on holiday in the Maldives last year .
Louisa originally appeared in EastEnders from 2005 until 2006 when she was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made an explosive comeback in 2018 which saw her thrust into a topical and vital storyline around consent .
The actress will have a lot more time on her hands in the coming weeks as filming for the BBC One soap opera has been cancelled indefinitely due to the pandemic .
An EastEnders spokesperson said : A spokesperson said : `` In light of the spread of Covid-19 , after much consideration , it has been decided that filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice .
The decision was made after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation and Public Health England . ''
They added : `` We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two , so that we can ensure the audience can continue to enjoy EastEnders in their homes for as long as possible . ''
EastEnders will continue to air on Mondays and Tuesdays until further notice .
Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 29 33033 .

The EastEnders actress behind fan-favourite Ruby Allen has discussed her fears surrounding the coronavirus pandemic forcing her to cancel her wedding
British actress Louisa Lytton has opened up about her wedding fears due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The EastEnders star, 31, is due to marry fiancé Ben Bhanvra next year, but now the couple is in isolation due to the ongoing international health crisis.
As the Ruby Allen actress answered questions from her followers on her Instagram, she was asked what she was doing to pass the time while in self-imposed quarantine.
Louisa replied: "I'm going to learn a language and continue to plan my wedding and keep praying it's going ahead."
When pressed further on whether she expected hers and Ben's nuptials to go ahead, Louisa opened up about her worries.
Image: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images) Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
She said: "Yeah, I mean, please please please, let it be. It's not for a little while so I think we're going to be all right. Scary times."
Ben and Louisa have been dating for over a year and got engaged while on holiday in the Maldives last year.
Louisa originally appeared in EastEnders from 2005 until 2006 when she was axed from the soap, but she made an explosive comeback in 2018 which saw her thrust into a topical and vital storyline around consent.
Image: louisanastrilytton/Instagram) louisanastrilytton/Instagram) Image: louisanastrilytton/Instagram) louisanastrilytton/Instagram)
The actress will have a lot more time on her hands in the coming weeks as filming for the BBC One soap opera has been cancelled indefinitely due to the pandemic.
An EastEnders spokesperson said: A spokesperson said: "In light of the spread of Covid-19, after much consideration, it has been decided that filming on EastEnders will be postponed until further notice. The decision was made after the latest government update.
"We will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the World Health Organisation and Public Health England."
They added: "We have also taken the decision to reduce the amount of episodes we broadcast each week to two, so that we can ensure the audience can continue to enjoy EastEnders in their homes for as long as possible."
EastEnders will continue to air on Mondays and Tuesdays until further notice.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.