thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Inside Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik's epic love story after baby news

Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik are expecting their first child together , sources close to the couple have claimed .
Supermodel Gigi , 25 , is said to be 20 weeks pregnant with the One Direction star 's baby as they await to find out the sex , TMZ reports .
It comes just three months after the pair confirmed they were together again after breaking up twice in 2018 .
The pair first started dating back in November 2015 after meeting at a Victoria 's Secret party .
Shy Zayn plucked up the courage to approach stunning supermodel Gigi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked her out .
For their first date , Zayn pulled out all the stops and took Gigi to the Bowery Hotel 's swanky restaurant Gemma in New York 's trendy East Village .
When news of their blossoming romance was uncovered , Zayn immediately came under fire for moving so soon after his break-up from fiancée Perrie Edwards .
A heartbroken Perrie said being dumped by text by Zayn was the 'worst experience of her life ' . '
But despite some backlash , Zayn and Gigi continued to flaunt their romance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the steamy music video for Pillow Talk - Zayn 's first solo single since leaving One Direction .
While a smitten Zayn gushed about his new lady love : `` She 's a very intelligent woman .
She knows how to carry herself .
She 's quite classy and that .
She 's not , like , arrogant in any way , she 's confident .
She carries it well .
She 's cool . ''
It was n't long before the pair were the new power couple in celeb land .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed up with red carpet appearances and even joint magazine covers .
Bookies even starting taking bets that a loved-up Zayn would soon pop the question to Gigi .
However , after two years together in March 2018 the couple shocked fans by announcing that they 'd gone their separate ways .
The pair both took to social media to release statements on their version of events .
Zayn said : `` Gigi and I had an incredibly meaningful , loving and fun relationship and I have a huge amount of respect and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a friend .
`` She has such an incredible soul . ''
While Gigi wrote : `` Breakup statements often seem impersonal because there is really no way to put into words what two people experience together over a few years .. not only in the relationship , but in life in general .
`` I 'm forever grateful for the love , time , and life lessons that Z and I shared .
I want nothing but the best for him and will continue to support him as a friend that I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` As for the future , whatever 's meant to be will always be . ''
As it turned out the future meant a reunion between the pair and they did not have to wait long .
Just two months after their break-up , the genetically blessed pair decided they could n't be apart and got back together .
Gigi confirmed things were officially back on by sharing a photo of her beau on social media and took to wearing a 'Zayn ' chain around her neck .
But by the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again .
A source told E !
at the time : `` They are in different points in their lives right now and decided they needed the time to breath apart from each other .
They are still in touch and both hope that things will work out , but their relationship is always up and down . ''
Another source said that Zayn `` has a lot of issues that [ Gigi ] could n't help him get through . ''
Shortly after his break-up with Gigi , Zayn had a switch-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ management .
The duo then got tongues wagging once again when Gigi was spotted leaving Zayn 's apartment .
Soon after the usually private singer tweeted out : `` @ GigiHadid love you . ''
In December 2019 , fans of the on-off couple got particularly excited when Gigi posted that she was copying a recipe from Zayn 's mum Things took a bigger twist in January when Zayn and Gigi were spotted arm in arm walking through New York looking incredibly happy and loved-up .
They were snapped leaving a dinner at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where they celebrated with Bella Hadid , Gigi 's mom Yolanda Hadid , and Dua Lipa ( who is dating Anwar Hadid ) .
As the coronavirus crisis then forced a lockdown in the United States , Zayn made sure he was by Gigi 's side and opted to stay at the Hadid family farm in Penyslvania .
Over the weekend the clan rang in Gigi 's 25th birthday where the model said she 'cried tears of joy ' in a grateful post .
Days later reports broke that the couple are expecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told TMZ Gigi is 20 weeks along and both their families are very excited .

Gigi Hadid really thinks about her birthday wish
Gigi Hadid really thinks about her birthday wish
The couple are reportedly expecting their first child together, sources close to Gigi Hadid's family have claimed
Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik are expecting their first child together, sources close to the couple have claimed.
Supermodel Gigi, 25, is said to be 20 weeks pregnant with the One Direction star's baby as they await to find out the sex, TMZ reports.
It comes just three months after the pair confirmed they were together again after breaking up twice in 2018.
The pair first started dating back in November 2015 after meeting at a Victoria's Secret party.
Shy Zayn plucked up the courage to approach stunning supermodel Gigi having recognised her from photographs and bravely asked her out.
Image: WireImage) WireImage)
For their first date, Zayn pulled out all the stops and took Gigi to the Bowery Hotel's swanky restaurant Gemma in New York's trendy East Village.
When news of their blossoming romance was uncovered, Zayn immediately came under fire for moving so soon after his break-up from fiancée Perrie Edwards.
A heartbroken Perrie said being dumped by text by Zayn was the 'worst experience of her life'.'
But despite some backlash, Zayn and Gigi continued to flaunt their romance and even starred alongside each other in the steamy music video for Pillow Talk - Zayn's first solo single since leaving One Direction.
Image: GC Images) GC Images)
Image: Daily Record) Daily Record)
While a smitten Zayn gushed about his new lady love: "She's a very intelligent woman. She knows how to carry herself. She's quite classy and that. She's not, like, arrogant in any way, she's confident. She carries it well. She's cool."
It wasn't long before the pair were the new power couple in celeb land.
A slew of never-ending Instagram PDAS were swiftly followed up with red carpet appearances and even joint magazine covers.
Image: Getty Images North America) Getty Images North America)
Bookies even starting taking bets that a loved-up Zayn would soon pop the question to Gigi.
However, after two years together in March 2018 the couple shocked fans by announcing that they'd gone their separate ways.
The pair both took to social media to release statements on their version of events.
Zayn said: "Gigi and I had an incredibly meaningful, loving and fun relationship and I have a huge amount of respect and adoration for Gigi as a woman and a friend.
"She has such an incredible soul."
Image: FilmMagic) FilmMagic)
While Gigi wrote: "Breakup statements often seem impersonal because there is really no way to put into words what two people experience together over a few years .. not only in the relationship, but in life in general.
"I'm forever grateful for the love, time, and life lessons that Z and I shared. I want nothing but the best for him and will continue to support him as a friend that I have immense respect and love for.
"As for the future, whatever's meant to be will always be."
As it turned out the future meant a reunion between the pair and they did not have to wait long.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Just two months after their break-up, the genetically blessed pair decided they couldn't be apart and got back together.
Gigi confirmed things were officially back on by sharing a photo of her beau on social media and took to wearing a 'Zayn' chain around her neck.
But by the end of the year, things had soured once again.
A source told E! at the time: "They are in different points in their lives right now and decided they needed the time to breath apart from each other. They are still in touch and both hope that things will work out, but their relationship is always up and down."
Image: WireImage) WireImage)
Another source said that Zayn "has a lot of issues that [Gigi] couldn't help him get through."
Shortly after his break-up with Gigi, Zayn had a switch-up in other areas parted ways with his management.
The duo then got tongues wagging once again when Gigi was spotted leaving Zayn's apartment.
Soon after the usually private singer tweeted out: "@GigiHadid love you."
In December 2019, fans of the on-off couple got particularly excited when Gigi posted that she was copying a recipe from Zayn's mum
Things took a bigger twist in January when Zayn and Gigi were spotted arm in arm walking through New York looking incredibly happy and loved-up.
They were snapped leaving a dinner at New York City's Il Buco, where they celebrated with Bella Hadid, Gigi's mom Yolanda Hadid, and Dua Lipa (who is dating Anwar Hadid).
Image: DIGGZY / SplashNews.com) DIGGZY / SplashNews.com) Image: Instagram) Instagram)
As the coronavirus crisis then forced a lockdown in the United States, Zayn made sure he was by Gigi's side and opted to stay at the Hadid family farm in Penyslvania.
Over the weekend the clan rang in Gigi's 25th birthday where the model said she 'cried tears of joy' in a grateful post.
Days later reports broke that the couple are expecting their first child together.
A source told TMZ Gigi is 20 weeks along and both their families are very excited.


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Andy Capp - 29th April 2020

Andy Capp - 29th April 2020

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Andy Capp - 29th April 2020 Andy Capp has been a favourite part of the Daily Mirror since 1957. Enjoy the adventures of Andy Capp and wife Flo every day
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thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Perishers - 29th April 2020

Perishers - 29th April 2020

Perishers - 29th April 2020 Perishers originally ran from 1959 to 2006. The strip is still so popular today that we decided to reprint the best of the strips by Maurice Dodd and Dennis Collins
Perishers originally ran from 1959 to 2006. The strip is still so popular today that we decided to reprint the best of the strips by Maurice Dodd and Dennis Collins
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thedailymirror--2020-04-28--The Gag Vault - 29th April 2020

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thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Garth -  29th April 2020

Garth -  29th April 2020

Garth - 29th April 2020 Garth is the Mirror’s time-travelling comic strip superhero. The strip originally ran from 1943 to 1997. Due to public demand, reprints of classic stories began in 2011
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thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Watchdog calls for shake-up of UK-funded schemes to tackle gender inequality

The Government 's drive to use UK taxpayers ' cash to tackle sexism overseas needs an overhaul , according to the National Audit Office .
It called on the Department for International Development to boost oversight of the project , called its Strategic Vision For Gender Equality .
DfID `` needs to improve its management of the vision 's implementation if it is to achieve its intended impact '' , says a report published today .
The watchdog warns : `` According to DfID , tackling social norms , such as negative attitudes within communities to girls attending school , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tackling gender equality .
`` But it has recognised that it does not do enough of this in its programmes .
“ Influencing is also key to DfID 's approach , but it faces challenges assessing and claiming the impact from its influencing efforts .
`` DfID 's most recent assessment of progress to date and the prospects for achieving the vision is mixed . ''
The NAO found there was “ currently no overall long-term implementation plan for the vision ” .
NAO chief Gareth Davies said : `` DfID 's commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wide-ranging .
`` Two years into the department 's 12-year vision , individual interventions are already improving the lives of women and girls overseas .
`` However , if DfID is to achieve its ambitious aims , it needs to develop a clearer long-term plan for implementing its vision and continue to take steps to improve the accuracy and transparency of its performance information . ''
Commons Public Accounts Committee chairwoman Meg Hillier said : `` DfID should be congratulated for setting an ambitious vision to tackle gender inequality by 2030 .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` DfID has n't set milestones to check if it is on the right track , or assessed how its local offices balance competing priorities .
`` It does n't even have accurate information about which projects are supposed to be reducing gender inequality .
`` DfID is also heading in the wrong direction when it comes to transparency over its efforts to tackle gender inequality . ''
International Development Committee chairwoman Sarah Champion said “ empowering women and girls to reach their full potential and break through the glass ceiling is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ poverty ” .
She added : “ They deserve the same employment opportunities as men to contribute to their economies , the same access to healthcare and education , the same feeling of safety at home , and the same access to justice .
“ If DfID is truly committed to equality , investment must be holistic , long-term and considered if the programmes are to succeed .
“ The NAO ’ s findings should be a wake-up call , leading DfID to revisit its vision for gender equality in some of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of funding exist .
“ British taxpayers know the value of gender equality ; it is both morally and economically right .
“ DfID must now show them that their money is being well spent and genuinely changing the lives of women and girls who need it most.
” A DfID spokeswoman said : “ The NAO rightly recognises the Department ’ s work to promote girls ’ education , challenge child marriage , end female genital mutilation and tackle sexual violence around the world .
“ Our evidence-based approach allows us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , such as coronavirus , so we can direct our lifesaving support to wherever it is needed most .
”

The National Audit Office wants greater oversight of key projects aimed at making life fairer for women and girls abroad
Watchdogs today demand a shake-up of a British aid effort to boost gender equality overseas.
The Government's drive to use UK taxpayers' cash to tackle sexism overseas needs an overhaul, according to the National Audit Office.
It called on the Department for International Development to boost oversight of the project, called its Strategic Vision For Gender Equality.
DfID "needs to improve its management of the vision's implementation if it is to achieve its intended impact", says a report published today.
The watchdog warns: "According to DfID, tackling social norms, such as negative attitudes within communities to girls attending school, will have the most long-term impact on tackling gender equality.
Image: Alamy Stock Photo) Alamy Stock Photo)
"But it has recognised that it does not do enough of this in its programmes.
“Influencing is also key to DfID's approach, but it faces challenges assessing and claiming the impact from its influencing efforts.
"DfID's most recent assessment of progress to date and the prospects for achieving the vision is mixed."
The NAO found there was “currently no overall long-term implementation plan for the vision”.
NAO chief Gareth Davies said: "DfID's commitment to tackling gender inequality is ambitious and wide-ranging.
"Two years into the department's 12-year vision, individual interventions are already improving the lives of women and girls overseas.
"However, if DfID is to achieve its ambitious aims, it needs to develop a clearer long-term plan for implementing its vision and continue to take steps to improve the accuracy and transparency of its performance information."
Commons Public Accounts Committee chairwoman Meg Hillier said: "DfID should be congratulated for setting an ambitious vision to tackle gender inequality by 2030.
“However, good intentions are not enough.
Image: PA) PA)
"DfID hasn't set milestones to check if it is on the right track, or assessed how its local offices balance competing priorities.
"It doesn't even have accurate information about which projects are supposed to be reducing gender inequality.
"DfID is also heading in the wrong direction when it comes to transparency over its efforts to tackle gender inequality."
International Development Committee chairwoman Sarah Champion said “empowering women and girls to reach their full potential and break through the glass ceiling is crucial if we are to end extreme poverty”.
She added: “They deserve the same employment opportunities as men to contribute to their economies, the same access to healthcare and education, the same feeling of safety at home, and the same access to justice.
Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror) Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)
“If DfID is truly committed to equality, investment must be holistic, long-term and considered if the programmes are to succeed.
“The NAO’s findings should be a wake-up call, leading DfID to revisit its vision for gender equality in some of its programmes, and boosting transparency where discrepancies of funding exist.
“British taxpayers know the value of gender equality; it is both morally and economically right.
“DfID must now show them that their money is being well spent and genuinely changing the lives of women and girls who need it most.”
A DfID spokeswoman said: “The NAO rightly recognises the Department’s work to promote girls’ education, challenge child marriage, end female genital mutilation and tackle sexual violence around the world.
“Our evidence-based approach allows us to quickly respond to constantly changing global challenges, such as coronavirus, so we can direct our lifesaving support to wherever it is needed most.”


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Extent of cash crisis facing Premier League clubs laid bare by finance expert

Bournemouth face financial meltdown if this season is not completed .
They are most reliant of all the clubs in the Premier League on TV money .
But , in total , 13 of last season ’ s top-flight outfits generated more than 70 per cent of their income from broadcasting revenues .
And they will all be thrown into chaos should they have to pay anything back to TV companies .
The University of Liverpool ’ s annual Premier League club valuation report claimed the finances at the Vitality Stadium are further evidence of the myth that the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ owners .
And it added that “ football has been chopped off at the knees in terms of ability to make money ” .
Even before the current pandemic , the club bankrolled by Russian oligarch Maxim Demin and boasting England striker Callum Wilson ( left ) lost £30million in the year to May 2019 .
Since the Cherries were in League One in 2012/13 , income has increased by £126m .
But player costs have gone up by £134m – including £40m in the last two years .
TV revenue in 2018/19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ income – for a club with a ground capacity of only 11,329 .
The Premier League secured broadcasting deals worth £9.2bn with overseas rights now up to a record £4.35m .
Failure to complete the remaining 92 top-flight fixtures could see £768m owed by the Premier League clubs – though the bigger clubs would owe more .
Kieran Maguire , a football finance expert with the University ’ s Centre for Sports Business Group , said : “ My gut reaction is that BT and Sky Sports are both committed to the Premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So they will work out some form of solution without necessarily demanding money back .
“ However , when it comes to the overseas broadcasters , the Premier League is another product on their roster .
“ If the Premier League fail to deliver then , as far as the overseas broadcasters are concerned , the Premier League is in breach of contract .
“ Bournemouth are vulnerable if the broadcasters decide not to pay or ask for money back .
“ In players such as David Brooks , they have got some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to other clubs .
“ But the transfer market is going to collapse this summer .
“ It is very much going to be a buyers ’ market and the anticipated sales proceeds that Bournemouth might have had in respect of their star players will be severely diminished .
”

The University of Liverpool's annual Premier League club valuation report claimed the finances at Bournemouth are further evidence of the myth that the top-flight is paved with gold for owners
Bournemouth face financial meltdown if this season is not completed.
They are most reliant of all the clubs in the Premier League on TV money.
But, in total, 13 of last season’s top-flight outfits generated more than 70 per cent of their income from broadcasting revenues.
And they will all be thrown into chaos should they have to pay anything back to TV companies.
The University of Liverpool ’s annual Premier League club valuation report claimed the finances at the Vitality Stadium are further evidence of the myth that the Premier League is paved with gold for club owners.
And it added that “football has been chopped off at the knees in terms of ability to make money”.
Image: EMPICS Sport) EMPICS Sport)
Even before the current pandemic, the club bankrolled by Russian oligarch Maxim Demin and boasting England striker Callum Wilson (left) lost £30million in the year to May 2019.
Since the Cherries were in League One in 2012/13, income has increased by £126m.
But player costs have gone up by £134m – including £40m in the last two years.
TV revenue in 2018/19 was £116m – 88 per cent of income – for a club with a ground capacity of only 11,329. The Premier League secured broadcasting deals worth £9.2bn with overseas rights now up to a record £4.35m.
Failure to complete the remaining 92 top-flight fixtures could see £768m owed by the Premier League clubs – though the bigger clubs would owe more. Kieran Maguire, a football finance expert with the University’s Centre for Sports Business Group, said: “My gut reaction is that BT and Sky Sports are both committed to the Premier League in the long term.
“So they will work out some form of solution without necessarily demanding money back.
“However, when it comes to the overseas broadcasters, the Premier League is another product on their roster.
Image: PA) PA)
“If the Premier League fail to deliver then, as far as the overseas broadcasters are concerned, the Premier League is in breach of contract.
“ Bournemouth are vulnerable if the broadcasters decide not to pay or ask for money back.
“In players such as David Brooks, they have got some really good players who would be attractive to other clubs.
“But the transfer market is going to collapse this summer.
“It is very much going to be a buyers’ market and the anticipated sales proceeds that Bournemouth might have had in respect of their star players will be severely diminished.”


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Wright recalls cleaning up room Gazza had 'smashed to bits' after England snub

Ian Wright has recalled how he had to help former England boss Glenn Hoddle tidy his hotel room after Paul Gascoigne 's infamous outburst .
Hoddle left 'Gazza ' out of his 22-man squad to go to the World Cup in France in 1998 , despite widespread belief that the midfielder would be included .
Gascoigne had joined England 's training camp in Spain prior to Hoddle announcing his squad , but was the surprise omission .
Each England player had been summoned to Hoddle 's hotel room individually to learn their fate , but Gazza heard a whisper before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cut .
After storming in on Hoddle and being told he would not be going to the tournament , Gazza then trashed the room before leaving , with Wright next in to see his manager .
“ I was in next , '' Wright said on Match of the Day : Top 10 podcast .
`` I thought Glen was calling me in to tell me that he ’ s not taking me for some reason but he called me in to tell me that he was and what he wanted me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I went in and we were actually talking about me being in the squad while cleaning the room up and fixing the mattress .
Me and the gaffer were talking about what he needed from me and Michael [ Owen ] all the time while we ’ re tidying the room up – things had been smashed to bits !
`` I was embarrassed because I was thinking about how the gaffer had to deal with Gazza going mad in the room .
I just naturally went in and started helping tidy stuff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call from Hoddle to leave out England 's talisman from their last appearance at a World Cup , particularly as Gazza had featured throughout their qualifying campaign .
But the Three Lions manager insisted Gazza had not got himself fit enough to compete at international level , despite several warnings .
Addressing the row with Hoddle in his autobiography , Gazza said : `` What the f****** hell have you done , you b****** .
You know what it means to me ... '' '' I do n't want to hear your f****** @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your reasons are .
You are a f****** b****** . ''
He then admitted to completely wrecking the room , including kicking in the door and overturning a table , and only just resisting his urges to hit Hoddle .
England went on to reach the last-16 , before being knocked out on penalties to Argentina , while Gazza never played for his country again .
Listen to Match of the Day : Top 10 only on BBC Sounds

Gascoigne was left out of England's World Cup 1998 squad by manager Glenn Hoddle after failing to prove his fitness, and reacted angrily when told the bad news
Ian Wright has recalled how he had to help former England boss Glenn Hoddle tidy his hotel room after Paul Gascoigne's infamous outburst.
Hoddle left 'Gazza' out of his 22-man squad to go to the World Cup in France in 1998, despite widespread belief that the midfielder would be included.
Gascoigne had joined England's training camp in Spain prior to Hoddle announcing his squad, but was the surprise omission.
Each England player had been summoned to Hoddle's hotel room individually to learn their fate, but Gazza heard a whisper before his meeting that he had not made the cut.
After storming in on Hoddle and being told he would not be going to the tournament, Gazza then trashed the room before leaving, with Wright next in to see his manager.
Image: Allsport) Allsport)
“I was in next," Wright said on Match of the Day: Top 10 podcast . "I thought Glen was calling me in to tell me that he’s not taking me for some reason but he called me in to tell me that he was and what he wanted me to do.
"I remember when I went in and we were actually talking about me being in the squad while cleaning the room up and fixing the mattress. Me and the gaffer were talking about what he needed from me and Michael [Owen] all the time while we’re tidying the room up – things had been smashed to bits!
Image: EMPICS Sport/PA Images) EMPICS Sport/PA Images)
"I was embarrassed because I was thinking about how the gaffer had to deal with Gazza going mad in the room. I just naturally went in and started helping tidy stuff up."
It was a bold call from Hoddle to leave out England's talisman from their last appearance at a World Cup, particularly as Gazza had featured throughout their qualifying campaign.
But the Three Lions manager insisted Gazza had not got himself fit enough to compete at international level, despite several warnings.
Addressing the row with Hoddle in his autobiography, Gazza said: "What the f****** hell have you done, you b******. You know what it means to me ..."
"Let me explain," replied Hoddle.
"I don't want to hear your f****** explanations. I don't care what your reasons are. You are a f****** b******."
He then admitted to completely wrecking the room, including kicking in the door and overturning a table, and only just resisting his urges to hit Hoddle.
England went on to reach the last-16, before being knocked out on penalties to Argentina, while Gazza never played for his country again.
Listen to Match of the Day: Top 10 only on BBC Sounds


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Queen to make special address to the nation for VE Day after events cancelled

The Queen will address the nation to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and Brits will be invited to open their doors and sing Vera Lynn ’ s “ We ’ ll Meet Again ” .
Plans to mark the occasion , including a veterans ’ procession in London , had to be adjusted due to lockdown .
Her Majesty will speak to the country on TV and radio at 9pm on Friday , May 8 – the exact moment her father , King George VI , gave a radio address in 1945 .
As part of the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read an extract from his grandfather ’ s diary from the same date , which describes the day , including the royal family ’ s iconic Buckingham Palace balcony appearance .
And royals , the Prime Minister and Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden will take part in a series of video calls with Second World War veterans who served on the Home Front .
As part of a special day of programming on the BBC , extracts from Sir Winston Churchill ’ s victory speech will recreate the moment peace in Europe was announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dowden will call on the public to mark the occasion in their homes , while war veterans will receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders .
The Government has produced a pack so the public can hold a 1940s-style afternoon tea party at home with homemade bunting , original recipes , games and educational and creative activities for children .
He said : “ We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the greatest generation that served in combat and on the home front during the Second World War .
“ Whilst we now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes and on our doorsteps , rather than in parades and street parties , I know the nation will come together to mark this historic occasion .
“ In these difficult times , acts of remembrance are even more poignant and I am sure that millions will want to join me to remember and give thanks to those who gave so much to secure peace , freedom and prosperity in Europe .
”

Brits will be invited to open their doors and sing Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” when the Queen speaks to the country on TV and radio at 9pm on Friday, May 8 to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day
Queen to make special address to the nation to mark VE Day after events cancelled
The Queen will address the nation to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and Brits will be invited to open their doors and sing Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again”.
Plans to mark the occasion, including a veterans’ procession in London, had to be adjusted due to lockdown.
Her Majesty will speak to the country on TV and radio at 9pm on Friday, May 8 – the exact moment her father, King George VI, gave a radio address in 1945.
As part of the day’s commemorations, Prince Charles will read an extract from his grandfather’s diary from the same date, which describes the day, including the royal family’s iconic Buckingham Palace balcony appearance.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
And royals, the Prime Minister and Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden will take part in a series of video calls with Second World War veterans who served on the Home Front.
As part of a special day of programming on the BBC, extracts from Sir Winston Churchill’s victory speech will recreate the moment peace in Europe was announced 75 years ago at 3pm.
Mr Dowden will call on the public to mark the occasion in their homes, while war veterans will receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders.
Image: Mirrorpix) Mirrorpix)
The Government has produced a pack so the public can hold a 1940s-style afternoon tea party at home with homemade bunting, original recipes, games and educational and creative activities for children.
He said: “We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the greatest generation that served in combat and on the home front during the Second World War.
“Whilst we now need to celebrate VE 75 in our homes and on our doorsteps, rather than in parades and street parties, I know the nation will come together to mark this historic occasion.
“In these difficult times, acts of remembrance are even more poignant and I am sure that millions will want to join me to remember and give thanks to those who gave so much to secure peace, freedom and prosperity in Europe.”


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--UK Prisons and courts face worst backlogs and overcrowding ever after Covid-19

The UK 's justice system faces unprecedented court backlogs and prisoner numbers after the coronavirus crisis , a new report has warned .
It comes as new figures show the number of coronavirus cases in prisons could be six times higher than the official published figure .
New figures from Public Health England found 1,783 `` possible/probable '' cases on top of the 304 confirmed infections in prisons across England and Wales .
By 2023/24 , the prison population could rise to 95,000 , its highest level ever , the Institute for Government has warned .
Their report found the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10,000 prison places would not be enough to meet the predicted rise , and said an extra £250m a year of spending would be required just to maintain current levels of performance in prisons .
Prisons in England and Wales are already close to capacity , with cases of violence and self-harm increasing sharply over the last decade .
At the same time , the coronavirus lockdown has seen courtrooms closed for all but a small number of cases .
The research suggests waiting times to hear cases could increase by more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six-month lockdown , with many defendants and victims forced to wait more than half a year for trials in the crown courts .
This could result in the highest average waiting time ever recorded , the IfG said .
To resolve the backlog , the think-tank calculates the Government would need to spend an extra £55 million to £110 million a year for two years so the necessary extra trials could take place .
IfG programme director Nick Davies , who wrote the report , said : `` Even before the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police officer numbers could have resulted in courts and prisons being overwhelmed by an increase in cases .
`` The effect of the coronavirus outbreak now means that there will also be huge delays in cases reaching courts - and therefore justice delayed - without more spending . ''
Public Health England found no “ explosive outbreaks ” of coronavirus in jails , but said “ significant threats remain ” .
Labour ’ s David Lammy called for mass testing in the prison population to ensure the virus doesn ’ t spread out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The truth is that the government does not know the true scale of the covid-19 outbreak in prisons because very few staff and prisoners have been tested for the virus .
“ Explosive outbreaks in prisons are not only extremely dangerous for those on the prison estate .
“ Scientists have warned that prisons can become pumps that spread the virus out of prisons , into hospitals and the general public .
”

New research predicts many defendants and victims forced to wait more than half a year for trials in the crown courts
The UK's justice system faces unprecedented court backlogs and prisoner numbers after the coronavirus crisis, a new report has warned.
It comes as new figures show the number of coronavirus cases in prisons could be six times higher than the official published figure.
New figures from Public Health England found 1,783 "possible/probable" cases on top of the 304 confirmed infections in prisons across England and Wales.
By 2023/24, the prison population could rise to 95,000, its highest level ever, the Institute for Government has warned.
Their report found the government’s pledge to provide another 10,000 prison places would not be enough to meet the predicted rise, and said an extra £250m a year of spending would be required just to maintain current levels of performance in prisons.
Prisons in England and Wales are already close to capacity, with cases of violence and self-harm increasing sharply over the last decade.
At the same time, the coronavirus lockdown has seen courtrooms closed for all but a small number of cases.
Image: Corbis via Getty Images) Corbis via Getty Images)
The research suggests waiting times to hear cases could increase by more than 70% in the event of a six-month lockdown, with many defendants and victims forced to wait more than half a year for trials in the crown courts.
This could result in the highest average waiting time ever recorded, the IfG said.
To resolve the backlog, the think-tank calculates the Government would need to spend an extra £55 million to £110 million a year for two years so the necessary extra trials could take place.
IfG programme director Nick Davies, who wrote the report, said: "Even before the coronavirus outbreak, the Government's pledge to increase police officer numbers could have resulted in courts and prisons being overwhelmed by an increase in cases.
"The effect of the coronavirus outbreak now means that there will also be huge delays in cases reaching courts - and therefore justice delayed - without more spending."
Public Health England found no “explosive outbreaks” of coronavirus in jails, but said “significant threats remain”.
Labour ’s David Lammy called for mass testing in the prison population to ensure the virus doesn’t spread out of control.
He said: “The truth is that the government does not know the true scale of the covid-19 outbreak in prisons because very few staff and prisoners have been tested for the virus.
“Explosive outbreaks in prisons are not only extremely dangerous for those on the prison estate.
“Scientists have warned that prisons can become pumps that spread the virus out of prisons, into hospitals and the general public.”


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Tottenham overtake Man City as Premier League's most valuable club, study finds

Tottenham have overtaken Man City to become the most valuable club in the Premier League , according to a recent study .
Despite not winning a trophy since 2008 , Spurs did reach the Champions League final for the first time in their history last season , and have achieved four successive top four finishes domestically .
Football finance experts at University of Liverpool Management School found that Spurs ' low wage budget and improved on-field fortunes have helped increase their value .
That is in addition to the opening of their new £1billion stadium , which draws in significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is part of the University ’ s Centre for Sports Business Group , said : `` Spurs are top of the valuation table because in 2018/19 they delivered a Champions League final and a top four Premier League finish on a wage budget that was £100-150 million lower than the rest of the 'Big Six ' .
`` As such they made more profits , and this was reflected in the final valuation number . ''
There were no strangers among the top six with regards to valuation , with Man Utd coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then Chelsea .
Wolves were the highest ranked club outside of the Premier League 's elite in seventh .
Over the course of the 2018/19 campaign Tottenham 's income grew by 21 per cent to £461million .
Only 39 per cent of that total income is taken up by player wages , compared with top four rivals Leicester , who splash out 84 per cent on wages in comparison .
Daniel Levy 's frugality in the transfer market has also paid off , with Tottenham recording the second lowest net spend on transfers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only Watford ( £21m ) .
In contrast , those competing with Spurs at the top end of the table forked out huge sums .
Chelsea 's net transfer spend amounted to £290m , in a season where they signed Jorginho ( £50m ) , Kepa Arrizabalaga ( £70m ) and completed a deal for Christian Pulisic ( £57m ) .
Liverpool were following close behind with a net outlay of £223m , ahead of Man Utd ( £135m ) and Man City ( £87m ) .
Tottenham recently came under fire for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furlough scheme amidst the coronavirus pandemic .
The club opted to put more than 550 non-playing members of staff on the scheme , thus cutting their wages to 80 per cent , before reversing their decision after public backlash .
The enforced break caused by the crisis will still significantly harm Spurs ' finances however , as well as all other Premier League clubs .
Maguire added : `` Club values will take a considerable hit .
There are fewer potential buyers in the market and greater uncertainty in terms of clubs ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have seen the share prices of clubs with shares quoted on the stock exchanges , such as Manchester United and Juventus , fall by 20-30 % since the start of the year .
`` This is likely to be greater for smaller clubs who do n't have the marketing and reputational might of the well-known brands . ''

WHO COMES OUT ON TOP IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE'S RICH LIST?
WHO COMES OUT ON TOP IN THE PREMIER LEAGUE'S RICH LIST?
Spurs' development of their new stadium has increased their value, as well as their on-pitch performance which saw them reach the Champions League final last season for the first time in their history
Tottenham have overtaken Man City to become the most valuable club in the Premier League, according to a recent study.
Despite not winning a trophy since 2008, Spurs did reach the Champions League final for the first time in their history last season, and have achieved four successive top four finishes domestically.
Football finance experts at University of Liverpool Management School found that Spurs' low wage budget and improved on-field fortunes have helped increase their value.
That is in addition to the opening of their new £1billion stadium, which draws in significant commercial income.
Kieran Maguire, who is part of the University’s Centre for Sports Business Group, said: "Spurs are top of the valuation table because in 2018/19 they delivered a Champions League final and a top four Premier League finish on a wage budget that was £100-150 million lower than the rest of the 'Big Six'.
Image: UEFA via Getty Images) UEFA via Getty Images)
"As such they made more profits, and this was reflected in the final valuation number."
There were no strangers among the top six with regards to valuation, with Man Utd coming third ahead of Liverpool, Arsenal, then Chelsea.
Wolves were the highest ranked club outside of the Premier League's elite in seventh.
Over the course of the 2018/19 campaign Tottenham's income grew by 21 per cent to £461million.
Image: AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images)
Only 39 per cent of that total income is taken up by player wages, compared with top four rivals Leicester, who splash out 84 per cent on wages in comparison.
Daniel Levy's frugality in the transfer market has also paid off, with Tottenham recording the second lowest net spend on transfers in the division at £22m, behind only Watford (£21m).
In contrast, those competing with Spurs at the top end of the table forked out huge sums.
Image: USA TODAY Sports) USA TODAY Sports)
Chelsea's net transfer spend amounted to £290m, in a season where they signed Jorginho (£50m), Kepa Arrizabalaga (£70m) and completed a deal for Christian Pulisic (£57m).
Liverpool were following close behind with a net outlay of £223m, ahead of Man Utd (£135m) and Man City (£87m).
Tottenham recently came under fire for applying to take up the Government's furlough scheme amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
The club opted to put more than 550 non-playing members of staff on the scheme, thus cutting their wages to 80 per cent, before reversing their decision after public backlash.
The enforced break caused by the crisis will still significantly harm Spurs' finances however, as well as all other Premier League clubs.
Maguire added: "Club values will take a considerable hit. There are fewer potential buyers in the market and greater uncertainty in terms of clubs' ability to generate income.
"We have seen the share prices of clubs with shares quoted on the stock exchanges, such as Manchester United and Juventus, fall by 20-30% since the start of the year.
"This is likely to be greater for smaller clubs who don't have the marketing and reputational might of the well-known brands."


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Little Women Atlanta's Ashley Ross death prompts tearful response from co-stars

The death of Ashley 'Ms Minnie ' Ross in a car accident has prompted an emotional reaction from her Little Women Atlanta co-star Amanda Salinas .
The 34-year-old reality star was behind the wheel of her own when she was struck by another driver .
An eyewitness confirmed the other drive sped off , fleeing the scene and leaving Minnie with her fatal injuries , leading to Atlanta Police to open an investigation into the collision .
Ashley 's untimely death has hit the cast of the reality show hard and her co-star Amanda Salinas opened up on social media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Salinas shared personal photos of her and Ashley on Instagram and captioned it with a tearful goodbye .
She wrote : `` As I ’ m writing this I ’ m in tears I can ’ t believe it my Minnie !
!
!
!
Why did they take you away from us !
!
!
!
WHY !
!
!
!
!
It always seems like we have all the time in the world , only to realise how fleeting it really is .
`` I wish we had more time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saved for later which along with you is gone forever.
” Amanda added that she would make sure she kept Minnie alive in people 's memories .
Salinas continued : `` I promise to keep you alive in my memories and be there for your mama @ grneyes4life and your aunt @ vdeloney72 .
`` You were more than our best friend you were our big sister and still is !
!
!
I still can ’ t believe this man why man why !
!
!
!
, I love you so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is broken .
Rest In Peace my love . ''
Ashley was an original cast member on Little Women Atlanta , starring in six seasons from 2016 .
Her rep confirmed the star ’ s death in a statement released on Monday evening .
It read '' “ It is with profound sadness that we confirm on behalf of the family of Ashley Ross aka “ Ms Minnie ” of Little Women Atlanta has succumbed to injuries from a tragic hit and run car accident today at the age of 34 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they grieve during this very difficult time.
” Her personal publicist Liz Dixson told Mirror Online : `` Per the police it is an ongoing investigation .
`` According to an eyewitness the driver of the vehicle that hit Ashley ’ s car and caused the accident fled from the scene .
`` Ashley was a sweet and kind person with a big heart .
She was an advocate for St Jude and young women .
She will be remembered for her contagious smile . ''
Do you have a story to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033 .

ASHLEY 'MINNIE' ROSS, STAR OF LITTLE WOMEN OF ATLANTA, HAS DIED, AGE 34
ASHLEY 'MINNIE' ROSS, STAR OF LITTLE WOMEN OF ATLANTA, HAS DIED, AGE 34
Little Women Atlanta star Amanda Salinas has shared an emotional message on social media following the death of Ashley 'Minnie' Ross in a car accident
The death of Ashley 'Ms Minnie' Ross in a car accident has prompted an emotional reaction from her Little Women Atlanta co-star Amanda Salinas.
The 34-year-old reality star was behind the wheel of her own when she was struck by another driver.
An eyewitness confirmed the other drive sped off, fleeing the scene and leaving Minnie with her fatal injuries, leading to Atlanta Police to open an investigation into the collision.
Ashley's untimely death has hit the cast of the reality show hard and her co-star Amanda Salinas opened up on social media with an emotional message about her friend.
Salinas shared personal photos of her and Ashley on Instagram and captioned it with a tearful goodbye.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
She wrote: "As I’m writing this I’m in tears I can’t believe it my Minnie !!!! Why did they take you away from us !!!! WHY!!!!! It always seems like we have all the time in the world, only to realise how fleeting it really is.
"I wish we had more time to do and say the things we saved for later which along with you is gone forever.”
Amanda added that she would make sure she kept Minnie alive in people's memories.
Salinas continued: "I promise to keep you alive in my memories and be there for your mama @grneyes4life and your aunt @vdeloney72 .
"You were more than our best friend you were our big sister and still is !!! I still can’t believe this man why man why!!!! , I love you so much !!!! My heart is broken. Rest In Peace my love."
Ashley was an original cast member on Little Women Atlanta, starring in six seasons from 2016.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Her rep confirmed the star’s death in a statement released on Monday evening.
It read" “It is with profound sadness that we confirm on behalf of the family of Ashley Ross aka “Ms Minnie” of Little Women Atlanta has succumbed to injuries from a tragic hit and run car accident today at the age of 34.
"The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time.”
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Her personal publicist Liz Dixson told Mirror Online: "Per the police it is an ongoing investigation.
"According to an eyewitness the driver of the vehicle that hit Ashley’s car and caused the accident fled from the scene.
"Ashley was a sweet and kind person with a big heart. She was an advocate for St Jude and young women. She will be remembered for her contagious smile."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Mums describe symptoms of 'measles-like' illness affecting kids with corona

Concerned mums have described 'measles-like ' symptoms their children have suffered while fighting suspected coronavirus .
There have been numerous reports of children fighting covid-19 experiencing rashes and other inflammatory ailments , in the UK and abroad .
Although not confirmed in all cases , the symptoms are similar to Kawasaki disease , of which there has been an increase in cases in countries dealing with bad Covid-19 outbreaks .
On Monday , doctors were issued an alert about a sharp rise of infants being admitted to intensive care with a Kawasaki-like disease in Britain and Italy .
The illness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asia .
Kawasaki disease primarily affects children under five years of age , with symptoms including a rash ; swollen glands in the neck ; dry , cracked lips ; red fingers or toes and red eyes .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Monday he was 'very worried ' about reports of the inflammatory condition , as top doctor Prof Chris Whitty said it 's plausible it was being triggered by Covid-19 .
Have you been affected by this story ?
Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk Similar cases have been reported in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical professionals there baffled .
`` Right now , we 're at the very beginning of trying to understand what that represents , '' Columbia 's Dr Mark Gorelik told Reuters .
Dr Gorelik said he believes the cases are likely not Kawasaki disease , but a similar process that shares an underlying mechanism with Kawasaki , which is thought to be triggered by an infectious agent that sparks an immune response .
The three New York cases follow a report at Stanford University in California , in which a 6-month-old was admitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was later diagnosed with Covid-19 .
Gemma Brown 's two-year-old son is suspected of having the 'inflammatory syndrome ' linked to Covid-19 , the Mail reports .
Doctors were initially baffled by the boy 's symptoms after the tot developed a fever and rash across his body .
But a senior consultant eventually diagnosed the boy with the rare Kawasaki disease , a form of toxic shock syndrome which causes the body ’ s immune system to attack its own organs .
Gemma told Mail Online : `` I asked for him to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gut feeling that there was a connection between COVID-19 and Kawasaki .
`` Both attack your immune system and the whole family had been poorly with Covid symptoms before he fell ill. '' I was adamant that there was a link and was begging for a test , but they just told me that there was no need to test the under-fives . ''
The brave lad was given an immunoglobin transfusion and was in hospital for five days .
TEEN CRITICAL WITH CORONAVIRUS HAD 'MEASLES LIKE ' RASH Lewis Greig suffered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vomiting before being admitted to hospital and testing positive for coronavirus .
The 13-year-old remains on a ventilator to help him breathe , and is described as critical but stable .
His mum Karen Simpson , 38 , said : `` He started being sick , had a sore head and was really tired .
“ By Thursday , he had developed a measles-like rash on his hands and his eyes went deep red and bloodshot .
`` One of the doctors said to us children don ’ t present with a dry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there ’ s an inflammatory reaction which makes it look like an autoimmune disease .
Karen is warning other parents to keep an eye out for similar symtoms .
A mum in Lancashire also fears her two-year-old daughter has Kawasaki disease .
At first it was thought the little girl just had a cold but within three days a rash appeared on her feet that quickly spread across her body , turning purple , and she has undergone several tests .
Her unnamed mum told Metro : `` She started with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a rash just on her feet .
`` That then spread just to her legs , forearms and hands .
`` Her feet have gone purple and now her legs are .
No temperature , no cough , nothing . ''
The family have been told it could be hand , foot and mouth , then were told a viral infection or slapped cheek syndrome .
There has been no precise diagnosis yet but the girl is reported to now be recovering .

Doctors around the world are urgently investigating the concerning reports of inflammatory symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease affecting children in countries with severe Covid-19 outbreaks, including the UK
Concerned parents have described 'measles-like' symptoms their children have suffered while fighting suspected coronavirus.
There have been numerous reports of children fighting covid-19 experiencing rashes and other inflammatory ailments, in the UK and abroad.
Although not confirmed in all cases, the symptoms are similar to Kawasaki disease, of which there has been an increase in cases in countries dealing with bad Covid-19 outbreaks.
On Monday, doctors were issued an alert about a sharp rise of infants being admitted to intensive care with a Kawasaki-like disease in Britain and Italy. The illness is generally more common in parts of Asia.
Kawasaki disease primarily affects children under five years of age, with symptoms including a rash; swollen glands in the neck; dry, cracked lips; red fingers or toes and red eyes.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Monday he was 'very worried' about reports of the inflammatory condition, as top doctor Prof Chris Whitty said it's plausible it was being triggered by Covid-19.
Have you been affected by this story? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
Image: Wikipedia) Wikipedia)
Similar cases have been reported in the USA and it has left doctors and medical professionals there baffled.
"Right now, we're at the very beginning of trying to understand what that represents," Columbia's Dr Mark Gorelik told Reuters.
Dr Gorelik said he believes the cases are likely not Kawasaki disease, but a similar process that shares an underlying mechanism with Kawasaki, which is thought to be triggered by an infectious agent that sparks an immune response.
The three New York cases follow a report at Stanford University in California, in which a 6-month-old was admitted to the hospital with Kawasaki disease and was later diagnosed with Covid-19.
TODDLER SUFFERING WITH KAWASAKI AFTER FEVER
Gemma Brown's two-year-old son is suspected of having the 'inflammatory syndrome' linked to Covid-19, the Mail reports.
Doctors were initially baffled by the boy's symptoms after the tot developed a fever and rash across his body.
But a senior consultant eventually diagnosed the boy with the rare Kawasaki disease, a form of toxic shock syndrome which causes the body’s immune system to attack its own organs.
Gemma told Mail Online: "I asked for him to be tested, as I had a gut feeling that there was a connection between COVID-19 and Kawasaki.
"Both attack your immune system and the whole family had been poorly with Covid symptoms before he fell ill.
"I was adamant that there was a link and was begging for a test, but they just told me that there was no need to test the under-fives."
The brave lad was given an immunoglobin transfusion and was in hospital for five days.
TEEN CRITICAL WITH CORONAVIRUS HAD 'MEASLES LIKE' RASH
Lewis Greig suffered a measles-like rash, red swollen eyes and vomiting before being admitted to hospital and testing positive for coronavirus.
The 13-year-old remains on a ventilator to help him breathe, and is described as critical but stable.
His mum Karen Simpson, 38, said: "He started being sick, had a sore head and was really tired.
“By Thursday, he had developed a measles-like rash on his hands and his eyes went deep red and bloodshot.
"One of the doctors said to us children don’t present with a dry cough like adults do. In children, there’s an inflammatory reaction which makes it look like an autoimmune disease.
Karen is warning other parents to keep an eye out for similar symtoms.
LITTLE GIRL'S FEET TURNED PURPLE AFTER DEVELOPING RASH
A mum in Lancashire also fears her two-year-old daughter has Kawasaki disease.
At first it was thought the little girl just had a cold but within three days a rash appeared on her feet that quickly spread across her body, turning purple, and she has undergone several tests.
Her unnamed mum told Metro: "She started with a cold, on the third day started with a rash just on her feet.
"That then spread just to her legs, forearms and hands.
"Her feet have gone purple and now her legs are. No temperature, no cough, nothing."
The family have been told it could be hand, foot and mouth, then were told a viral infection or slapped cheek syndrome.
There has been no precise diagnosis yet but the girl is reported to now be recovering.


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Dr Hilary Jones shares his vital tips to keep deadly coronavirus at bay

Dr Hilary Jones has been a point of call for many worried families stuck at home during the global coronavirus pandemic .
The 66-year-old general practitioner and presenter has been easing the nation 's concerns as they continue to fight off the killer bug , and Hilary 's top tips have really made a difference .
Making a daily appearance on This morning alongside Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield , the GP has continuously reiterated the fact that individuals should be staying at home , and trying their utmost best to not leave the house unless it 's for their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He has also debunked many myths which have caused sheer chaos among those who are frightened .
Here are Dr Hilary Jones ' vital tips to fight off the deadly coronavirus .
Refrain from napping during the day Despite the fact that may of people are stuck at home and out of work , Dr Hilary claims that it 's not a good idea to sleep during the day .
As well all try to bide our time with daily activities , the prospect of taking a quick snooze can be very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ celebrity Doc , it can cause chaos and effect one 's mental health due to the fact it may be more difficult to fall asleep at night .
`` It ’ s important to be able to switch off , to distract yourself – exercise is really important because that helps you to get to sleep and sleep well '' he explained on Lorraine .
`` Napping during the day is a no-no .
If you nap during the day it will definitely impinge on your quality of sleep in the night '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the day , he recommends to fill your time by doing some light exercise .
Do n't go outside to wash your car Although the idea of giving your car a well needed scrub might seem like a good one , according to Dr Hilary , it may cause more harm than good .
When chatting with Piers Morgan on Good Morning Britain the presenter asked if he could wash his Aston Martin under the government guidelines .
While Piers was quite adamant that his decision to shine up his sports car would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted that it would be an unfair decision .
He explained that the task is an unessential one , and therefore , it would be breaking government guidelines of social distancing .
`` Washing your car is unessential apart from the windscreen for safety .
Leave your car dirty for the time being because , again , if everybody washed their cars everybody would be out there not social distancing '' .
Quite an obvious revelation , but something which has been questioned over the past couple of days .
After news broke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to inject themselves with disinfectant to fight off the coronavirus , many others questioned the effectiveness of the dangerous doing .
Even Donald Trump suggested the injections as a way to fight off the killer bug .
Despite this , Dr Hilary came to the rescue and reassured the British public that doing such a thing would cause severe harm , even potentially more than what the COVID-19 would .
He told This Morning viewers : `` Of course don ’ t do that at home .
I mean , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the potential to do a lot more harm than good The celebrity GP has been quite stern in his approach that wearing face masks may do more harm than good .
He suggests that the general public need not flock to buy and wear the protective gear , and stressed the importance of hardworking NHS workers who gravely need to essential PPE .
Explaining the situation to curious This Morning viewers , the star told : `` For healthy people who are doing their essential journey who are socially distancing , the use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Most masks have gaps in them to which the virus can drive a bus through .
When you are inhaling in a mask the virus can come in .
He added : `` It can do harm if you do wear a mask , you adjust it , it gets itchy and moist – which means you are putting your hand to your face more often .
‘ If the mask gets moist it traps the virus '' .

The 66-year-old general practitioner and TV star has given out his top tips for worried families during the ongoing pandemic
Dr Hilary Jones has been a point of call for many worried families stuck at home during the global coronavirus pandemic.
The 66-year-old general practitioner and presenter has been easing the nation's concerns as they continue to fight off the killer bug, and Hilary's top tips have really made a difference.
Making a daily appearance on This morning alongside Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield, the GP has continuously reiterated the fact that individuals should be staying at home, and trying their utmost best to not leave the house unless it's for their daily exercise session or for food essentials.
He has also debunked many myths which have caused sheer chaos among those who are frightened.
Here are Dr Hilary Jones' vital tips to fight off the deadly coronavirus.
Refrain from napping during the day
Image: ITV) ITV)
Despite the fact that may of people are stuck at home and out of work, Dr Hilary claims that it's not a good idea to sleep during the day.
As well all try to bide our time with daily activities, the prospect of taking a quick snooze can be very appealing.
However, according to the celebrity Doc, it can cause chaos and effect one's mental health due to the fact it may be more difficult to fall asleep at night.
"It’s important to be able to switch off, to distract yourself – exercise is really important because that helps you to get to sleep and sleep well" he explained on Lorraine.
"Napping during the day is a no-no. If you nap during the day it will definitely impinge on your quality of sleep in the night".
Instead of taking a nap during the day, he recommends to fill your time by doing some light exercise.
Don't go outside to wash your car
Image: ITV) ITV)
Although the idea of giving your car a well needed scrub might seem like a good one, according to Dr Hilary, it may cause more harm than good.
When chatting with Piers Morgan on Good Morning Britain the presenter asked if he could wash his Aston Martin under the government guidelines.
While Piers was quite adamant that his decision to shine up his sports car would not affect anyone else, the GP insisted that it would be an unfair decision.
He explained that the task is an unessential one, and therefore, it would be breaking government guidelines of social distancing.
"Washing your car is unessential apart from the windscreen for safety. Leave your car dirty for the time being because, again, if everybody washed their cars everybody would be out there not social distancing".
Refrain from injecting oneself with disinfectant
Image: ITV) ITV)
Quite an obvious revelation, but something which has been questioned over the past couple of days.
After news broke that some misinformed individuals have been attempting to inject themselves with disinfectant to fight off the coronavirus, many others questioned the effectiveness of the dangerous doing.
Even Donald Trump suggested the injections as a way to fight off the killer bug.
Despite this, Dr Hilary came to the rescue and reassured the British public that doing such a thing would cause severe harm, even potentially more than what the COVID-19 would.
He told This Morning viewers: "Of course don’t do that at home. I mean, it’s a poison".
Wearing masks has the potential to do a lot more harm than good
Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock) Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
The celebrity GP has been quite stern in his approach that wearing face masks may do more harm than good.
He suggests that the general public need not flock to buy and wear the protective gear, and stressed the importance of hardworking NHS workers who gravely need to essential PPE.
Explaining the situation to curious This Morning viewers, the star told: "For healthy people who are doing their essential journey who are socially distancing, the use of masks is not effective.
"Most masks have gaps in them to which the virus can drive a bus through. When you are inhaling in a mask the virus can come in.
He added: "It can do harm if you do wear a mask, you adjust it, it gets itchy and moist – which means you are putting your hand to your face more often. ‘If the mask gets moist it traps the virus".


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Our Girl viewers fume at 'sex-fuelled' ending as Michelle Keegan says goodbye

Tonight marked Michelle Keegan 's final appearance as army medic Georgie Lane in BBC One 's hit drama series Our Girl .
The talented actress , 32 , confirmed that she was leaving the successful show and that the current series would be her last a couple of months ago .
As the final episode rolled around tonight after months of anticipation , eagle-eyed fans were left utterly disappointed as they watched the final clips unfold in front of their eyes .
Dedicated viewers took to Twitter to share their annoyance at the fact the show ended on a positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood-filled finale .
After months of despair , Michelle 's character Georgie finally received some good news after the traumatic death of her fiancé Elvis Hart in the last series .
Georgie spent most of the last series struggling with her grief and trying to find the culprit who took Elvis ' life .
And tonight , that finally happened , but not before her blossoming romance with Prof was cemented in the last couple of minutes as he bravely asked her out for a drink once they got home .
As it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't go down well with fans who were hoping for a blood and guts kind of ending .
Twitter was awash with criticism from under whelmed viewers who clearly had no time for Georgie and Prof 's flirtation .
One unimpressed spectator shared : `` I did n't wait all day long just to see those two fools have eye sex with one another ! ''
.
While a second echoed : `` Oh for god sake .
What a dissapointment .
I wanted to see Georgie in a stretcher at least , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Her husband to be is barely cold in the grave and she 's already cracking on with the cute sidekick .
Not impressed with that ending , '' another complained .
While a fourth fan shared : `` Love this show but this ending was the absolute pitts ! ''
.
Ahead of tonight 's gripping final episode , the talented actress took to Instagram to post a video where she thanked her doting fans for their never-ending support .
Talking to her 3.9 million followers , the former Corrie star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day today , so I thought I 'd quickly come on to say hi .
`` I have got a filter on because I look horrendous , I do n't think I 've washed my hair for a week .
`` But , I wanted to say thank you so much for all your support so far regarding Our Girl , I really appreciate it .
It 's the final episode tonight , it starts at 9pm on BBC One and I hope you enjoy it '' .

Michelle Keegan's final Our Girl scenes aired tonight as she waved a final farewell to her loveable character Georgie Lane
Our Girl viewers fume at 'sex-fuelled' ending as Michelle Keegan says final goodbye
Tonight marked Michelle Keegan's final appearance as army medic Georgie Lane in BBC One's hit drama series Our Girl.
The talented actress, 32, confirmed that she was leaving the successful show and that the current series would be her last a couple of months ago.
As the final episode rolled around tonight after months of anticipation, eagle-eyed fans were left utterly disappointed as they watched the final clips unfold in front of their eyes.
Dedicated viewers took to Twitter to share their annoyance at the fact the show ended on a positive note, instead of an explosive, blood-filled finale.
Image: BBC) BBC)
After months of despair, Michelle's character Georgie finally received some good news after the traumatic death of her fiancé Elvis Hart in the last series.
Georgie spent most of the last series struggling with her grief and trying to find the culprit who took Elvis' life.
And tonight, that finally happened, but not before her blossoming romance with Prof was cemented in the last couple of minutes as he bravely asked her out for a drink once they got home.
As it turns out, the happy ending didn't go down well with fans who were hoping for a blood and guts kind of ending.
Twitter was awash with criticism from under whelmed viewers who clearly had no time for Georgie and Prof's flirtation.
One unimpressed spectator shared: "I didn't wait all day long just to see those two fools have eye sex with one another!".
While a second echoed: "Oh for god sake. What a dissapointment. I wanted to see Georgie in a stretcher at least, not getting off with someone!".
"Her husband to be is barely cold in the grave and she's already cracking on with the cute sidekick. Not impressed with that ending," another complained.
Image: BBC) BBC)
While a fourth fan shared: "Love this show but this ending was the absolute pitts!".
Ahead of tonight's gripping final episode, the talented actress took to Instagram to post a video where she thanked her doting fans for their never-ending support.
Talking to her 3.9 million followers, the former Corrie star explained: "Hi guys, horrible day today, so I thought I'd quickly come on to say hi.
"I have got a filter on because I look horrendous, I don't think I've washed my hair for a week.
"But, I wanted to say thank you so much for all your support so far regarding Our Girl, I really appreciate it. It's the final episode tonight, it starts at 9pm on BBC One and I hope you enjoy it".


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Beat The Chasers 'worthy winner' scoops £50k after thrashing all five chasers

Beat The Chaser star Anna won an incredible £50,000 prize in Tuesdays episode , and viewers gushed over what a deserving winner she was .
Anna beat the chasers in the new spin off for the show , where all of the chasers team up together and play against one contestant .
Host Bradley Walsh gave Anna the questions and she performed fantastically , and not even five of the geniuses , Anne Hegerty , Mark Labbett , Jenny Ryan , Paul Sinha and Shaun Wallace could beat Anna .
This was despite Anna revealing straight away that when she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not beat any of the chasers .
Early on in the round , Bradley asked Anna what she would spend the money on .
She said she wanted to pay for a skiing trip for her little boy - before telling a cheeky story about Eddie The Eagle .
She revealed she had contacted him because her son was such a huge fan and they had ended up going on a date- but he then never phoned her back .
Anna admitted she had now given up on love - stealing the hearts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her victory all the more sweet .
She won £50,000 after taking on all five of the chasers at once , a brave choice .
One delighted viewer tweeted : `` Ca n't believe that last woman won , me and my parents all cheered for her # BeatTheChasers `` .
`` I ’ m SO happy for Anna on # BeatTheChasers she was sooo funny and deserving of the money !
!
And her name is GORGEOUS # TheChase `` gushed another .
A third penned : `` # BeatTheChasers What a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a more worthy winner ! ''
* Beat The Chasers airs every night this week at 9pm on ITV

Beat The Chaser star wins whopping £50k as she thrashes chasers in 'tense' round
Beat The Chaser star wins whopping £50k as she thrashes chasers in 'tense' round
Beat The Chaser's Anna was a hit with viewers as she told a cheeky story about her date with Eddie The Eagle, before gong home with £50k after taking on all five chasers
Beat The Chasers 'worthy winner' scoops whopping £50k after thrashing all five chasers
Beat The Chaser star Anna won an incredible £50,000 prize in Tuesdays episode, and viewers gushed over what a deserving winner she was.
Anna beat the chasers in the new spin off for the show, where all of the chasers team up together and play against one contestant.
Host Bradley Walsh gave Anna the questions and she performed fantastically, and not even five of the geniuses, Anne Hegerty, Mark Labbett, Jenny Ryan, Paul Sinha and Shaun Wallace could beat Anna.
This was despite Anna revealing straight away that when she plays along at home, she does not beat any of the chasers.
Image: ITV) ITV)
Early on in the round, Bradley asked Anna what she would spend the money on.
She said she wanted to pay for a skiing trip for her little boy - before telling a cheeky story about Eddie The Eagle.
She revealed she had contacted him because her son was such a huge fan and they had ended up going on a date- but he then never phoned her back.
Image: ITV) ITV)
Anna admitted she had now given up on love - stealing the hearts of audiences and viewers alike and making her victory all the more sweet.
She won £50,000 after taking on all five of the chasers at once, a brave choice.
One delighted viewer tweeted: "Can't believe that last woman won, me and my parents all cheered for her #BeatTheChasers ".
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Image: ITV) ITV)
"I’m SO happy for Anna on #BeatTheChasers she was sooo funny and deserving of the money!! And her name is GORGEOUS #TheChase " gushed another.
A third penned: " #BeatTheChasers What a programme! That 50k couldn't go to a more worthy winner!"
"I'm really enjoying #BeatTheChasers. I'm a sucker for a tense, primetime game show," added a fourth.
* Beat The Chasers airs every night this week at 9pm on ITV


thedailymirror--2020-04-28--Michael Elgin 'Dave Meltzer better start writing reviews about Impact'

Michael Elgin has declared he 's on a mission to put some `` respect back on the Impact World Championship `` .
The Canadian powerhouse joined Impact Wrestling last April , after stints with both Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling .
Ever since the 33-year-old has made his intentions clear , stating that he 's looking to capture the American company 's top title .
And while he fell short against Brian Cage at Slammiversary XVII last July , Elgin - real name Aaron Frobel - remains confident that he will achieve his goal .
In an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Quant , he talks about how Japanese Puroresu influenced him , the impact of becoming a father , who would be on his Canadian 'Mount Rushmore of Wrestling ' and why more wrestling media need to wake up to the quality of Impact .
Can you talk to us about when you fell in love with wrestling and what performers you liked to watch growing up ?
Well , I 'm the youngest in my family , I mean I am the only child , but we have a very close family and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting out of wrestling and as they moved away from it , I got their hand-me-downs .
Stuff like toys and video tapes .
Being in Canada , we only got WWF and so I did n't know about the NWA or territories .
I was born in 1986 and so I loved Hulk Hogan and at that time I gravitated towards those characters .
After Hogan though , when I was about four or five , I started gravitating towards people like The Bulldogs , Ricky Steamboat and The Rockers .
Their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very early age I started to shift towards that style of wrestling .
Not only did you start watching wrestling at an early age , but I read that you first started training at just 14 , after picking up a flyer at a WWF show .
Yeah I attended a WWF live event and lucked out and got a flyer to a two-week wrestling camp which I attended and never turned away from it .
I had to take the train for two hours back and forth for two weeks and fell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't the greatest school , but you get to learn the basics .
For the most part they could tell me what to do and I had a good understanding of how to do it .
I remember learning how to bump and do some basic moves after two or three attempts .
I suppose I just always knew that I wanted to be a wrestler and that was it for me .
After learning the basics you also have to focus on your character - one thing that you always bring to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that trait come from ?
Well , there are two things that helped that .
Firstly was my love of Japanese wrestling .
I used to get heckled online saying I wanted to be Japanese wrestler .
But I would argue that you often imitate what you watch .
I first got to watch Japanese wrestlers in 1992 as part of a WCW pay-per-view and then was picking up some tapes .
Early on there was no such thing as English commentary on Japanese shows and so you had to feel the emotion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explaining them to you .
The second part of why I am so intense is that when I am in that ring , it is real to me .
I am a prize fighter and someone is standing in front of me trying to take that prize .
I have to feel that .
I ca n't believe it is almost a year to the day in which you made your Impact Wrestling debut .
How would you sum up your first year with the promotion ?
I feel that it 's been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ career .
I had hit a stride prior to joining Impact , but just was n't being focused on .
If you are not at the focus it is very hard for people to see everything you do .
I feel that in wrestling it happens a lot where people are late to the party of putting people in the spotlight .
The strides have been greater in Impact because they have focused on me more .
They have focused on what I bring to the table .
Honestly this has been the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and anything I can do to put more eyes on Impact as a whole I will do .
The company has been fantastic .
So what was it about Impact that attracted you to sign with them last year ?
I felt like I was kind of just not getting some focus I could have with New Japan .
I felt like I was spinning my wheels and doing four and six-man tags and those trips were long trips , so I was missing my family a lot .
I felt like I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed something I would be happy with .
So I had been watching a lot of wrestling and ended up watching about a year 's worth of Impact television , and I knew that this was the place for me to be .
They put an emphasis on wrestling and the world championship and I wanted to be a part of that .
You spoke a lot there about missing your family .
Did becoming a father change your outlook on your career ?
Not too much , but slightly , you miss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hits you in the feels a lot , but by the same token you know you are working to provide for them , so your children do n't have to worry about things .
It 's a flip of the coin on how you want to take it .
It does affect your mentality though , like my son is four , turning five soon , and I have only been there for his birthday once .
But by the same token , when I get to be home he never has anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to provide for him .
I asked for your review of the last 12 months with Impact , but what do you want in the next 12 months ?
I want to be the Impact World Champion , absolutely .
I want to be champion and have the world putting respect back on the Impact World Championship and on Impact Wrestling .
It 's funny because you do n't see people like Dave Meltzer writing reviews about Impact , heck PWI [ Pro Wrestling Illustrated ] do not even recognise our championship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you right now , that they better .
Once I am champion you will see everyone talking about it .
When they are looking at match of the year candidates , they are not going to be able to do so without looking at my world title matches .
Touching on the Impact World Championship , Tessa Blanchard made waves becoming the first female to win the title .
This created some controversy , but what do you make of having a female world champion ?
People look at wrestling in so many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different feelings and emotions .
Wrestling covers such a wide range of stuff from being a cinematic movie , a sporting event , a TV show ... just so much stuff is covered .
In society there is such a strong push for equality that I do n't think no matter what age , sex , religion , sexuality , there should n't be differences .
Everyone should be treated as equal .
I think it is great to have Tessa as world champion , but obviously I want that championship .
Clearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but we have seen you in other promotions enjoying success as part of a tag team .
If you were able to choose a partner from the Impact roster , who would it be and why ?
Well my first and probably only option would be Eddie Edwards to be honest .
Even though we are foes and going after the same championship , I respect his history and what he brings to the table .
Maybe also Ace Austin , as I feel that being by his side , I could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Like any young talent , there is always room for improvement and I think with my experience I could help him .
The Impact locker room is not alone in boasting an array of talent from across the world , but there is definitely a large Canadian influence .
What is the secret behind so many high level professional wrestlers coming out of Canada ?
Do you know what , I think it 's because it is so difficult to break out on the national scale .
To even get into the States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ correct paperwork in order , and essentially hand that paperwork in stating that no US citizen can outwork you .
You have to be so hungry to want it .
To me that is why we are at that level and are able to shine on the world stage .
So if you were to erect a Canadian 'Mount Rushmore of wrestling ' who would you include ?
Well definitely you have to have Bret 'The Hitman ' Hart .
I also think that 'Whipper ' Billy Watson needs to be on there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t know he was an NWA Champion back in the day .
It then gets hard to decide after that .
I mean it 's very likely that Edge would be on there .
Then the fourth is open to be honest .
But I think I would go for Chris Jericho , who has had such a long career .
We would also need to build a fifth spot , for me !
Michael Elgin can be seen on Impact Wrestling on Fight Network UK ( Sky 192/Freesat 161/TVPlayer.com and app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a repeat on Sunday at 9pm and also on 5Star on Fridays at 11pm .
Impact Wrestling 's Rebellion pay-per-view is airing on April 29 at 9pm on the Fight Network UK .

EXCLUSIVE: The Canadian powerhouse believes Impact Wrestling deserves more respect and has the sport's pre-eminent journalist and PWI magazine in his sights
Michael Elgin has declared he's on a mission to put some "respect back on the Impact World Championship ".
The Canadian powerhouse joined Impact Wrestling last April, after stints with both Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Ever since the 33-year-old has made his intentions clear, stating that he's looking to capture the American company's top title.
And while he fell short against Brian Cage at Slammiversary XVII last July, Elgin - real name Aaron Frobel - remains confident that he will achieve his goal.
In an exclusive interview with Mirror Sport's Tony Quant, he talks about how Japanese Puroresu influenced him, the impact of becoming a father, who would be on his Canadian 'Mount Rushmore of Wrestling' and why more wrestling media need to wake up to the quality of Impact.
Can you talk to us about when you fell in love with wrestling and what performers you liked to watch growing up?
Well, I'm the youngest in my family, I mean I am the only child, but we have a very close family and a lot of my older cousins were getting out of wrestling and as they moved away from it, I got their hand-me-downs. Stuff like toys and video tapes. Being in Canada, we only got WWF and so I didn't know about the NWA or territories.
I was born in 1986 and so I loved Hulk Hogan and at that time I gravitated towards those characters. After Hogan though, when I was about four or five, I started gravitating towards people like The Bulldogs, Ricky Steamboat and The Rockers. Their action caught my attention and at a very early age I started to shift towards that style of wrestling.
Not only did you start watching wrestling at an early age, but I read that you first started training at just 14, after picking up a flyer at a WWF show.
Yeah I attended a WWF live event and lucked out and got a flyer to a two-week wrestling camp which I attended and never turned away from it. I had to take the train for two hours back and forth for two weeks and fell in love with it.
It wasn't the greatest school, but you get to learn the basics. For the most part they could tell me what to do and I had a good understanding of how to do it. I remember learning how to bump and do some basic moves after two or three attempts. I suppose I just always knew that I wanted to be a wrestler and that was it for me.
Image: Impact Wrestling) Impact Wrestling)
After learning the basics you also have to focus on your character - one thing that you always bring to the ring is intensity. Where did that trait come from?
Well, there are two things that helped that. Firstly was my love of Japanese wrestling. I used to get heckled online saying I wanted to be Japanese wrestler. But I would argue that you often imitate what you watch.
I first got to watch Japanese wrestlers in 1992 as part of a WCW pay-per-view and then was picking up some tapes. Early on there was no such thing as English commentary on Japanese shows and so you had to feel the emotion and noises they were making without someone explaining them to you.
The second part of why I am so intense is that when I am in that ring, it is real to me. I am a prize fighter and someone is standing in front of me trying to take that prize. I have to feel that.
I can't believe it is almost a year to the day in which you made your Impact Wrestling debut. How would you sum up your first year with the promotion?
I feel that it's been one of the best years in my career. I had hit a stride prior to joining Impact, but just wasn't being focused on. If you are not at the focus it is very hard for people to see everything you do. I feel that in wrestling it happens a lot where people are late to the party of putting people in the spotlight.
The strides have been greater in Impact because they have focused on me more. They have focused on what I bring to the table. Honestly this has been the best year in my career so far and anything I can do to put more eyes on Impact as a whole I will do. The company has been fantastic.
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So what was it about Impact that attracted you to sign with them last year?
I felt like I was kind of just not getting some focus I could have with New Japan. I felt like I was spinning my wheels and doing four and six-man tags and those trips were long trips, so I was missing my family a lot. I felt like I needed to change things up, I needed something I would be happy with.
So I had been watching a lot of wrestling and ended up watching about a year's worth of Impact television, and I knew that this was the place for me to be. They put an emphasis on wrestling and the world championship and I wanted to be a part of that.
Image: Impact Wrestling) Impact Wrestling)
You spoke a lot there about missing your family. Did becoming a father change your outlook on your career?
Not too much, but slightly, you miss a lot and it sucks. It hits you in the feels a lot, but by the same token you know you are working to provide for them, so your children don't have to worry about things. It's a flip of the coin on how you want to take it.
It does affect your mentality though, like my son is four, turning five soon, and I have only been there for his birthday once. But by the same token, when I get to be home he never has anything to worry about, because I am able to provide for him.
Image: Impact Wrestling) Impact Wrestling)
I asked for your review of the last 12 months with Impact, but what do you want in the next 12 months?
I want to be the Impact World Champion, absolutely. I want to be champion and have the world putting respect back on the Impact World Championship and on Impact Wrestling. It's funny because you don't see people like Dave Meltzer writing reviews about Impact, heck PWI [Pro Wrestling Illustrated] do not even recognise our championship. Well I am going to tell you right now, that they better.
Once I am champion you will see everyone talking about it. When they are looking at match of the year candidates, they are not going to be able to do so without looking at my world title matches.
Image: Impact Wrestling) Impact Wrestling)
Touching on the Impact World Championship, Tessa Blanchard made waves becoming the first female to win the title. This created some controversy, but what do you make of having a female world champion?
People look at wrestling in so many different ways and it hits so many different feelings and emotions. Wrestling covers such a wide range of stuff from being a cinematic movie, a sporting event, a TV show... just so much stuff is covered.
In society there is such a strong push for equality that I don't think no matter what age, sex, religion, sexuality, there shouldn't be differences. Everyone should be treated as equal. I think it is great to have Tessa as world champion, but obviously I want that championship.
Clearly the immediate focus is on that title, but we have seen you in other promotions enjoying success as part of a tag team. If you were able to choose a partner from the Impact roster, who would it be and why?
Well my first and probably only option would be Eddie Edwards to be honest. Even though we are foes and going after the same championship, I respect his history and what he brings to the table. Maybe also Ace Austin, as I feel that being by his side, I could help him grow as a performer. Like any young talent, there is always room for improvement and I think with my experience I could help him.
The Impact locker room is not alone in boasting an array of talent from across the world, but there is definitely a large Canadian influence. What is the secret behind so many high level professional wrestlers coming out of Canada?
Do you know what, I think it's because it is so difficult to break out on the national scale. To even get into the States, you have to have all the correct paperwork in order, and essentially hand that paperwork in stating that no US citizen can outwork you. You have to be so hungry to want it. To me that is why we are at that level and are able to shine on the world stage.
So if you were to erect a Canadian 'Mount Rushmore of wrestling' who would you include?
Well definitely you have to have Bret 'The Hitman' Hart. I also think that 'Whipper' Billy Watson needs to be on there, for those of you who don’t know he was an NWA Champion back in the day. It then gets hard to decide after that.
I mean it's very likely that Edge would be on there. Then the fourth is open to be honest. But I think I would go for Chris Jericho, who has had such a long career. We would also need to build a fifth spot, for me!
Michael Elgin can be seen on Impact Wrestling on Fight Network UK (Sky 192/Freesat 161/TVPlayer.com and app) every Wednesday at 9pm, with a repeat on Sunday at 9pm and also on 5Star on Fridays at 11pm.
Impact Wrestling's Rebellion pay-per-view is airing on April 29 at 9pm on the Fight Network UK.