thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Brits warned against party weekend as UK 'on edge of losing control' of Covid-19

Britons have been warned against having a `` party weekend '' as a former chief scientific adviser said the UK is `` on the edge of losing control '' of coronavirus .
The public has been urged to act `` in tune '' with Covid-19 guidelines before the `` rule of six '' restrictions come into force in England , Wales and Scotland from Monday with some exceptions .
Photos showed drinkers flocking to bars and pubs across Britain on Friday night , just over 48 hours before the new rules , which will limit gatherings to six people both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases have been soaring across the UK , with Birmingham , Sandwell and Solihull the latest to have tough local lockdown restrictions imposed to curb the virus ' spread .
Former chief scientific adviser and member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) Sir Mark Walport said the only way to stop the virus spreading is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with , adding that there is an `` extremely strong argument '' that home working should continue .
Have you been affected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mirror.co.uk .
Tough new Covid-19 lockdown measures were announced for parts of the UK on Friday as cases continued to rise and as the R number - the reproduction number of coronavirus transmission - climbed above one .
There has been a steep rise in cases among young people in England , and Health Secretary Matt Hancock has recently urged them to stick to the rules .
New measures banning people from mixing in homes and gardens will be imposed on Birmingham , Solihull and Sandwell from Tuesday in response to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ahead of the `` rule of six '' coming into play , the chairman of the body representing rank and file police officers raised concerns about behaviour over the weekend .
John Apter , of the Police Federation of England and Wales , said : `` There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday . ''
Police in Manchester - where a local lockdown has been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broke up a house party of 30 people in the early hours of Saturday .
When asked whether the UK was still in control of the spread of the virus , Sir Mark Walport said : `` I think one would have to say that we 're on the edge of losing control . ''
He told the BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` You 've only got to look across the Channel to see what 's happening in France , what 's happening in Spain .
`` The French on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can see their hospital admissions and indeed their intensive care admissions are going up . ''
He added : `` The short answer is the only way to stop the spread of this infection is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with , that lowers the risk .
`` It 's a very very fine balancing act , it 's very important to get youngsters back to school , people to university , but it means we 're going to have to hold back our contacts in other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` definitely '' still working from home , and told the programme : `` Where people can work from home there 's an extremely strong argument that they should do so . ''
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove urged people to act `` in tune with '' the rules this weekend , telling BBC Breakfast : `` If people do behave in a way that is not really in line or in tune with the guidelines that have been put out , then they are putting other people at risk .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chiefs have said that they hope people behave with appropriate restraint this weekend is we do not want to see a further acceleration of the spread of the virus . ''
He denied that the Government was losing control of Covid-19 , saying : `` No .
I do n't accept that . ''
He also said the Government is not considering backing down over the `` rule of six '' , despite calls from Tory MPs to exempt children from the new restrictions , adding that the measure is necessary to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` we can protect our grandparents '' .
`` And then we can ensure in due course that these restrictions can be relaxed and my hope like so many is that we can have a proper Christmas , '' he added .
Mr Gove said Sir Mark 's warning is a `` warning to us all '' , telling the Today Programme : `` I think Sir Mark 's words - he 's a very distinguished scientist - is a warning to us all .
`` There 's a range of scientific opinion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientist is agreed is that we have seen an uptick in infection and therefore it is appropriate we take public health measures . ''
In England , those who flout the new rules can be fined £100 for a first offence , doubling on each further offence up to £3,200 .
Meanwhile , Boris Johnson is considering plans to fine people who breach self-isolation rules .
And asked whether the Government should consider a carrot and stick approach with better financial support for those self-isolating as well as fines for breaches , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think it is a very fair point . ''
In Birmingham , Dr Justin Varney , the city 's director of public health , said the rise in infections there was linked mostly to gatherings in private homes at the end of August and over the bank holiday weekend .
An increase in testing resulted in more confirmed cases , he added .
Licensed premises , like pubs and bars , and restaurants flouting contact tracing rules and social distancing are also believed to be part of the problem behind rising rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared in a video on TikTok which was posted on the TikTok-uk account .
In the video , he says that `` no matter what your age it 's incredibly important that you follow the rules '' to keep the virus under control .
Coronavirus cases in the UK have risen to the highest level since mid-May , with a total of 3,539 new cases recorded on Friday .
It is the highest daily figure since May 17 , and Public Health England 's medical director Professor Yvonne Doyle warned it is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus spreads throughout the UK '' .
The figure rose sharply from 2,919 the previous day and most cases are people who have been tested in the community .
Data released by the Government Office for Science and Sage showed the estimate for the R value across the UK is between 1.0 and 1.2 .
According to Government advisers , the last time R was above one was in early March .
What are the new rules ?
The new rules are being applied slightly differently in each devolved administration .
From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people will be illegal .
The rules will apply across England to all ages and in any setting either indoors and outdoors , at home or a pub .
A single household or support bubble that is larger than six will still be able to gather .
Covid-secure venues like places of worship , gyms , restaurants and hospitality settings can still hold more than six in total .
Education and work settings are not affected by the new rules .
Weddings and funerals can still go ahead with a limit of 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People in Wales will only be able to meet in groups of six or under indoors and must all belong to the same extended household group .
Up to four households are able to join together to form an extended household .
But , unlike in England , children under 12 will be exempt and will not count towards that total .
Also unlike in England , people will also still be able to meet up in groups of up to 30 outdoors , as long as social distancing is maintained .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ county borough due to its rise in Covid-19 cases .
People across Wales must wear face masks in shops and other indoor public spaces from Monday .
A maximum of six people from two households will be allowed to meet together in Scotland .
Just like in England , the new limit applies when people meet in restaurants , pubs and beer gardens , as well as in homes .
However , children under the age of 12 , who are part of the two households meeting will not count towards the limit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon has said .
There will be `` some limited exceptions '' , covering organised sports and places of worship .
Up to 20 people will be able to attend weddings , civil partnerships and funerals , as well as receptions and wakes , which is more stringent than both England and Wales .
Northern Ireland has not announced any changes to how many people can gather .
However , localised coronavirus restrictions are to be introduced in Belfast and Ballymena .
People from two or more households in these areas will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There are a number of limited exceptions , including childcare provision and households that have formed a social bubble with another .
No more than six people , from no more than two households , will be allowed to meet in private gardens .
In Northern Ireland , the number of people who can gather indoors in a private home was already reduced from 10 people from four households to six people from two households last month due to a rise in Covid-19 cases .
Up to 15 people can meet outdoors @

With "rule of six" Covid-19 restrictions coming into force and Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull the latest to have local lockdown curbs imposed, there are fears Britons will have one last hurrah and ignore social distancing rules
Brits warned not to have party weekend as UK 'on edge of losing control' of coronavirus
Britons have been warned against having a "party weekend" as a former chief scientific adviser said the UK is "on the edge of losing control" of coronavirus.
The public has been urged to act "in tune" with Covid-19 guidelines before the "rule of six" restrictions come into force in England, Wales and Scotland from Monday with some exceptions.
On Saturday, police in Greater Manchester were dispersing gatherings and issuing fixed penalty notices.
They attended a gathering at an address in Stockport which had 45 people in attendance, and another address in north Manchester which they had been called to on two previous occasions.
Photos showed drinkers flocking to bars and pubs across Britain on Friday night, just over 48 hours before the new rules, which will limit gatherings to six people both indoors and outdoors in England.
Have you been affected by coronavirus? Email your story to webnews@mirror.co.uk.
Image: Lee McLean/SWNS) Lee McLean/SWNS)
Confirmed cases have been soaring across the UK, with Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull the latest to have tough local lockdown restrictions imposed to curb the virus' spread.
Former chief scientific adviser and member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) Sir Mark Walport said the only way to stop the virus spreading is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with, adding that there is an "extremely strong argument" that home working should continue.
Tough new Covid-19 lockdown measures were announced for parts of the UK on Friday as cases continued to rise and as the R number - the reproduction number of coronavirus transmission - climbed above one.
Image: PA) PA)
There has been a steep rise in cases among young people in England, and Health Secretary Matt Hancock has recently urged them to stick to the rules.
New measures banning people from mixing in homes and gardens will be imposed on Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell from Tuesday in response to a rocketing infection rate in the area.
Ahead of the "rule of six" coming into play, the chairman of the body representing rank and file police officers raised concerns about behaviour over the weekend.
Image: Lee McLean/SWNS) Lee McLean/SWNS)
John Apter, of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: "There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday."
Police in Manchester - where a local lockdown has been in force since July 30 - said they broke up a house party of 30 people in the early hours of Saturday.
When asked whether the UK was still in control of the spread of the virus, Sir Mark Walport said: "I think one would have to say that we're on the edge of losing control."
He told the BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "You've only got to look across the Channel to see what's happening in France, what's happening in Spain.
"The French on Thursday had 9,800 new infections and one can see their hospital admissions and indeed their intensive care admissions are going up."
He added: "The short answer is the only way to stop the spread of this infection is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with, that lowers the risk.
"It's a very very fine balancing act, it's very important to get youngsters back to school, people to university, but it means we're going to have to hold back our contacts in other areas."
The professor said he was "definitely" still working from home, and told the programme: "Where people can work from home there's an extremely strong argument that they should do so."
Image: Daily Mirror/Andy Stenning) Daily Mirror/Andy Stenning)
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove urged people to act "in tune with" the rules this weekend, telling BBC Breakfast: "If people do behave in a way that is not really in line or in tune with the guidelines that have been put out, then they are putting other people at risk.
"The reason why the country's police chiefs have said that they hope people behave with appropriate restraint this weekend is we do not want to see a further acceleration of the spread of the virus."
He denied that the Government was losing control of Covid-19, saying: "No. I don't accept that."
He also said the Government is not considering backing down over the "rule of six", despite calls from Tory MPs to exempt children from the new restrictions, adding that the measure is necessary to "keep the reinfection rate down" so "we can protect our grandparents".
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Image: PA) PA)
"And then we can ensure in due course that these restrictions can be relaxed and my hope like so many is that we can have a proper Christmas," he added.
Mr Gove said Sir Mark's warning is a "warning to us all", telling the Today Programme: "I think Sir Mark's words - he's a very distinguished scientist - is a warning to us all.
"There's a range of scientific opinion but one thing on which practically every scientist is agreed is that we have seen an uptick in infection and therefore it is appropriate we take public health measures."
In England, those who flout the new rules can be fined £100 for a first offence, doubling on each further offence up to £3,200.
Meanwhile, Boris Johnson is considering plans to fine people who breach self-isolation rules.
And asked whether the Government should consider a carrot and stick approach with better financial support for those self-isolating as well as fines for breaches, Mr Gove told the Today programme: "I think it is a very fair point."
In Birmingham, Dr Justin Varney, the city's director of public health, said the rise in infections there was linked mostly to gatherings in private homes at the end of August and over the bank holiday weekend.
An increase in testing resulted in more confirmed cases, he added.
Licensed premises, like pubs and bars, and restaurants flouting contact tracing rules and social distancing are also believed to be part of the problem behind rising rates.
Elsewhere, Health Secretary Matt Hancock appeared in a video on TikTok which was posted on the TikTok-uk account.
In the video, he says that "no matter what your age it's incredibly important that you follow the rules" to keep the virus under control.
Coronavirus cases in the UK have risen to the highest level since mid-May, with a total of 3,539 new cases recorded on Friday.
Sign up for the Mirror Politics newsletter From the coronavirus to Brexit, this is an era of great change and uncertainty. Events in Parliament have rarely been so crucial - or confusing. Our daily politics newsletter is there at 8.30am to guide you through these turbulent times. Written by the Mirror's Head of Politics Jason Beattie it includes sharply-written commentary, a concise overview of events in Westminster and a sprinkling of gossip. There's then a 4.30pm bullet-point update with the day's headlines. Don't miss a thing - sign up for the Mirror Politics newsletter by visiting www.mirror.co.uk/email.
It is the highest daily figure since May 17, and Public Health England's medical director Professor Yvonne Doyle warned it is a reminder of the "ongoing risk as the virus spreads throughout the UK".
The figure rose sharply from 2,919 the previous day and most cases are people who have been tested in the community.
Data released by the Government Office for Science and Sage showed the estimate for the R value across the UK is between 1.0 and 1.2.
According to Government advisers, the last time R was above one was in early March.
What are the new rules?
The new rules are being applied slightly differently in each devolved administration.
England
From Monday, gatherings of more than six people will be illegal.
The rules will apply across England to all ages and in any setting either indoors and outdoors, at home or a pub.
A single household or support bubble that is larger than six will still be able to gather.
Covid-secure venues like places of worship, gyms, restaurants and hospitality settings can still hold more than six in total.
Education and work settings are not affected by the new rules.
Weddings and funerals can still go ahead with a limit of 30 people if conducted in a Covid-secure way.
Wales
People in Wales will only be able to meet in groups of six or under indoors and must all belong to the same extended household group.
Up to four households are able to join together to form an extended household.
But, unlike in England, children under 12 will be exempt and will not count towards that total.
Also unlike in England, people will also still be able to meet up in groups of up to 30 outdoors, as long as social distancing is maintained.
The changes will not apply in Caerphilly county borough due to its rise in Covid-19 cases.
People across Wales must wear face masks in shops and other indoor public spaces from Monday.
Scotland
A maximum of six people from two households will be allowed to meet together in Scotland.
Just like in England, the new limit applies when people meet in restaurants, pubs and beer gardens, as well as in homes.
However, children under the age of 12, who are part of the two households meeting will not count towards the limit of six people, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.
There will be "some limited exceptions", covering organised sports and places of worship.
Up to 20 people will be able to attend weddings, civil partnerships and funerals, as well as receptions and wakes, which is more stringent than both England and Wales.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has not announced any changes to how many people can gather.
However, localised coronavirus restrictions are to be introduced in Belfast and Ballymena.
People from two or more households in these areas will not be able to meet in private settings.
There are a number of limited exceptions, including childcare provision and households that have formed a social bubble with another.
No more than six people, from no more than two households, will be allowed to meet in private gardens.
In Northern Ireland, the number of people who can gather indoors in a private home was already reduced from 10 people from four households to six people from two households last month due to a rise in Covid-19 cases.
Up to 15 people can meet outdoors.


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--New UK town 'faces imminent lockdown' after spike in coronavirus cases

Hartlepool could face `` imminent '' new lockdown restrictions after a worrying spike in new coronavirus infections .
The leader of the town 's council has described it as a `` wake up call '' and warned that further restrictions may follow .
Hartlepool was this week added to a government watchlist after 51 cases were confirmed in seven days - up from 22 the previous week .
Shane Moore , leader of Hartlepool Borough Council , described the new figures as `` extremely worrying '' .
Care homes have been advised to suspend family visits to protect the vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also be carrying out spot checks at pubs and restaurants in the town .
In a Facebook post , Cllr Moore said : `` Today unfortunately , I have to inform you that Hartlepool has been added to the Government 's watchlist as an area of concern , following the sharp rise in the number of coronavirus cases in town .
`` In short , this means that while further lockdown restrictions are not needed at this stage , they could be imminent if infection rates continue to increase .
`` There have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last seven days and that 's up from 22 cases in the previous week .
`` So , although these may sound like relatively small numbers , it shows that the virus is spreading again and we simply can not afford for that trend to continue .
`` A number of steps have already been taken to curb the spread of the virus .
These include advising all care homes in Hartlepool to suspend family visiting for the time being so we can protect some of our most vulnerable residents .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stepping up spot checks at pubs and restaurants .
`` From Monday , it will also be illegal to meet more than six people in doors or outdoors unless your part of the same household or bubble .
`` I must say , that until recently , we 've been doing really well in Hartlepool and I 've thanked you numerous times for that .
`` But our latest figures are extremely worrying .
They 're a clear wake up call that every single one of us must stick rigidly to the safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the coronavirus poses little threat to them .
But I would remind you that , even if you do n't show any symptoms , you could still easily pass the virus on to family members and that 's why it 's really important we protect the ones we love at this time . ''
On Thursday , Teesside Live reported how Hartlepool neared the 'red zone ' for its infection rates .
The Government will look into placing local lockdown restrictions on any area with a rate higher than 50 cases per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the rate is 50.4 in Hartlepool , using a seven day average of new cases up to September 8 ( the latest figure available ) .
Middlesbrough - last week added to an official Government watchlist as an `` area of concern '' - is not far behind , on 45.5 , using the NHS Data until September 8 .
From Monday , the Goverment 's rule of six comes into place .
New laws , put in place by Prime Minister Boris Johnson , will restrict social gatherings to six people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some exemptions for events like weddings and funerals .

Hartlepool was this week added to a government watchlist after 51 cases were confirmed in seven days - up from 22 the previous week, sparking a warning that measures could be stepped up
Hartlepool could face "imminent" new lockdown restrictions after a worrying spike in new coronavirus infections.
The leader of the town's council has described it as a "wake up call" and warned that further restrictions may follow.
Hartlepool was this week added to a government watchlist after 51 cases were confirmed in seven days - up from 22 the previous week.
Shane Moore, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, described the new figures as "extremely worrying".
Care homes have been advised to suspend family visits to protect the vulnerable, Teesside Live reports.
Image: Alamy Stock Photo) Alamy Stock Photo)
Police will also be carrying out spot checks at pubs and restaurants in the town.
In a Facebook post, Cllr Moore said: "Today unfortunately, I have to inform you that Hartlepool has been added to the Government's watchlist as an area of concern, following the sharp rise in the number of coronavirus cases in town.
"In short, this means that while further lockdown restrictions are not needed at this stage, they could be imminent if infection rates continue to increase.
"There have been 51 confirmed cases in Hartlepool in the last seven days and that's up from 22 cases in the previous week.
Image: PA) PA)
"So, although these may sound like relatively small numbers, it shows that the virus is spreading again and we simply cannot afford for that trend to continue.
"A number of steps have already been taken to curb the spread of the virus. These include advising all care homes in Hartlepool to suspend family visiting for the time being so we can protect some of our most vulnerable residents.
"While council staff and the police are stepping up spot checks at pubs and restaurants.
"From Monday, it will also be illegal to meet more than six people in doors or outdoors unless your part of the same household or bubble.
"I must say, that until recently, we've been doing really well in Hartlepool and I've thanked you numerous times for that.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
"But our latest figures are extremely worrying. They're a clear wake up call that every single one of us must stick rigidly to the safety rules.
"Some people may feel that the coronavirus poses little threat to them. But I would remind you that, even if you don't show any symptoms, you could still easily pass the virus on to family members and that's why it's really important we protect the ones we love at this time."
On Thursday, Teesside Live reported how Hartlepool neared the 'red zone' for its infection rates.
The Government will look into placing local lockdown restrictions on any area with a rate higher than 50 cases per 100,000 people.
Official NHS statistics show that the rate is 50.4 in Hartlepool, using a seven day average of new cases up to September 8 (the latest figure available).
Middlesbrough - last week added to an official Government watchlist as an "area of concern" - is not far behind, on 45.5, using the NHS Data until September 8.
From Monday, the Goverment's rule of six comes into place.
New laws, put in place by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, will restrict social gatherings to six people, indoors or outdoors.
There are some exemptions for events like weddings and funerals.


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--St Leger LIVE results: Doncaster tips and previews for racing on TV

Pyledriver heads the contenders for the final Classic of the Flat season this afternoon , the Pertemps St Leger .
@ @ @ @ @ highest-rated of the 11 runners in the Group 1 over 1m 6f – and bids @ @ @ @ @ small stable a fairytale success .
Santiago is one of several threats , the only @ @ @ @ @ the field , representing Aidan O'Brien and Frankie Dettori .
Big improver Hukum has had @ @ @ @ @ he is the mount of Jim Crowley , who has enjoyed a memorable campaign .
@ @ @ @ @ the last minute for Galileo Chrome , after his original rider Shane Crosse tested positive @ @ @ @ @ outsiders there is a horse named Tyson Fury , the winner of his only race @ @ @ @ @ latest updates from the Doncaster action throughout the day , follow our LIVE blog below @

Galileo Chrome emerged victorious in a tight finish to the Pertemps St Leger.
The Joseph O'Brien-trained colt was strongly challenged by Berkshire Rocco, Santiago and Pyledriver, but had enough in reserve to win by a neck.
It was a first Classic triumph for Tom Marquand, who only picked up the ride at the last minute.
Galileo Chrome's original jockey Shane Crosse was ruled out of the Group 1 after testing positive for coronavirus.
"It's a dream come true," said Marquand.
"I genuinely feel terrible for Shane and can't imagine what heartbreak it is for him."
Galileo Chrome returned at odds of 4/1.
O'Brien is only the second man to ride and train a Leger winner.
Recap the updates from the Doncaster action in our blog below...


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Champion wrestler executed by hanging after being 'tortured into confession'

Iran has executed a champion wrestler who claimed he was tortured into making a televised false confession in a case that sparked an international outcry .
Navid Afkari , 27 , was hanged at Adelabad Prison in Shiraz after he was convicted of stabbing to death a security guard during anti-government protests in August 2018 , state media said on Saturday .
Afkari was executed `` this morning after legal procedures were carried out at the insistence of the parents and the family of the victim , '' the media quoted the head of the justice department in the southern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who was handed two death sentences , had said he was tortured into making a false confession , according to his family and activists , and his attorney says there is no proof of his guilt .
His supporters described him as a `` political prisoner '' .
Afkari 's brothers , Vahid and Habib , were sentenced to 54 and 27 years in prison in the same case , according to human rights activists in Iran .
Amnesty International had warned on Friday that Afkari was at `` imminent risk of being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Afkari made a brief phone call to his family on September 6 to say he was being held at Adelabad Prison , which has `` high security and harsh conditions '' .
It had called on UN human rights bodies and EU member states to `` urgently intervene '' to help `` save Navid Afkari from execution '' .
A global union representing 85,000 athletes called on Tuesday for Iran 's expulsion from world sport if it executed Afkari .
The IOC has faced pressure to kick Iran out of the Olympics , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bodies urging Tehran to spare the wrestler 's life .
US President Donald Trump also called on Iran this month not to execute the wrestler , tweeting : `` To the leaders of Iran , I would greatly appreciate if you would spare this young man 's life , and not execute him . ''
A spokesperson for the Iran Human Rights Monitor ( IHRM ) said : `` Navid Afkari was executed this morning in Adelabad Prison of Shiraz .
`` His family were told that he had been hanged .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the world to stop his execution , the Iranian regime hanged the young Iran protester in a bid to prevent further protests against the regime .
`` Navid Afkari , 27 , was a wrestling champion who had never hurt anybody . ''
Afkari was accused of killing Hassan Turkman , an agent with Basij , a militia that is part of the Revolutionary Guard , during the August 2018 protests in Shiraz .
In September 2019 , Afkari filed a complaint with Iran 's judiciary saying he was forced to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severe physical and psychological torture ” as he spent almost 50 days in police custody .
In an open letter , he wrote : “ They put a plastic bag over my head and almost suffocated me .
`` Using batons and other hard objects , they beat hard on my hands , abdomen , and legs .
`` They used foul language and insulted me frequently .
`` They tied me tight and poured alcohol down my nostrils . ''
According to the IHRM , Afkari had said the Coroner ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were caused under torture .
He said in an audio file shared on August 30 this year “ The evidence is there if the court wants to investigate ( the acts of torture ) ... '' There is not one shred of evidence in this damned case that shows I am guilty .
`` But they did not want to hear our voice .
`` Then , I learned that they are looking for another head to hang from their noose . ''
An IHRM spokesperson added : `` Iran Human Rights Monitor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Navid Afkari and calls on international human rights organizations to take action to stop the killing of young Iranians for exercising their genuine right to freedom of expression .
`` The Iranian regime must be held accountable for its mockery of justice and killing of Iran ’ s youth on unfounded allegations . ''
The case renewed international calls for Iran to stop executing prisoners .
According to Amnesty International , which campaigns to abolish the death penalty , Iran is one of the world 's most prolific executioners .
It has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executions took place in China , Iran , Saudi Arabia , Iraq and Egypt – in that order . ''

The mother of wrestler Navid Afkari pleads for help over his death sentence
The mother of wrestler Navid Afkari pleads for help over his death sentence
Navid Afkari, convicted of fatally stabbing a security guard during anti-government protests in Shiraz, Iran, was supported by the likes of Donald Trump and FIFA amid calls for Tehran to spare his life
Iran executes champion wrestler who was 'tortured into confessing to murder'
Iran has executed a champion wrestler who claimed he was tortured into making a televised false confession in a case that sparked an international outcry.
Navid Afkari, 27, was hanged at Adelabad Prison in Shiraz after he was convicted of stabbing to death a water company security guard during anti-government protests in August 2018, state media said on Saturday.
Afkari was executed "this morning after legal procedures were carried out at the insistence of the parents and the family of the victim," the media quoted the head of the justice department in the southern Fars province as saying.
Afkari, who was handed two death sentences, had said he was tortured into making a false confession, according to his family and activists, and his attorney says there is no proof of his guilt. His supporters described him as a "political prisoner".
His attorney, Hassan Younesi, accused authorities of denying his client a family visit before the execution, as required by law.
Iran's judiciary has denied the torture claims, and the country's Supreme Court rejected a review of the case in late August.
Afkari's brothers, Vahid and Habib, were sentenced to 54 and 27 years in prison in the same case, according to human rights activists in Iran. Their mum has said her sons were forced to testify against each other under torture.
Amnesty International had warned on Friday that Afkari was at "imminent risk of being executed in secret", adding that Afkari made a brief phone call to his family on September 6 to say he was being held at Adelabad Prison, which has "high security and harsh conditions".
It had called on UN human rights bodies and EU member states to "urgently intervene" to help "save Navid Afkari from execution".
A global union representing 85,000 athletes called on Tuesday for Iran's expulsion from world sport if it executed Afkari. The IOC, which had said it was trying to "facilitate a solution", has faced pressure to kick Iran out of the Olympics.
US President Donald Trump also called on Iran this month not to execute the wrestler, tweeting: "To the leaders of Iran, I would greatly appreciate if you would spare this young man's life, and not execute him."
A spokesperson for the Iran Human Rights Monitor (IHRM) said: "Navid Afkari was executed this morning in Adelabad Prison of Shiraz.
"His family were told that he had been hanged.
"Despite widespread international outcries in Iran and around the world to stop his execution, the Iranian regime hanged the young Iran protester in a bid to prevent further protests against the regime.
"Navid Afkari, 27, was a wrestling champion who had never hurt anybody."
Afkari, a national champion wrestler, was accused of killing security guard Hassan Turkman during the August 2018 protests in Shiraz. In a report on its website, the IHRM described Turkman as an agent with Basij.
The protests took place during some of the worst unrest in a decade over economic hardships. Iran's clerical rulers have blamed the street protests what they call "thugs" linked to exiles and foreign foes - the United States and Israel.
Iranian state television aired a video last week in which Afkari appeared to confess to Turkman's killing.
The report also showed what appeared to be written confessions by Afkari, but he said in a recording circulated on social media that he was coerced into signing the documents.
"I hit twice, once and then again," Afkari was shown saying with a stabbing gesture during a police reconstruction of the killing.
His lawyer had said previously there was no video of the moment the security guard was killed, and footage used as evidence against the brothers was recorded an hour before the stabbing.
In September 2019, Afkari filed a complaint with Iran's judiciary saying he was forced to give a false confession during “the most severe physical and psychological torture” as he spent almost 50 days in police custody.
In an open letter, he wrote: “They put a plastic bag over my head and almost suffocated me. Using batons and other hard objects, they beat hard on my hands, abdomen, and legs.
"They used foul language and insulted me frequently. They tied me tight and poured alcohol down my nostrils."
According to the IHRM, Afkari had said the Coroner’s Office in Shiraz examined his injuries that were caused under torture.
He said in an audio file shared on August 30 this year “The evidence is there if the court wants to investigate (the acts of torture)...
"There is not one shred of evidence in this damned case that shows I am guilty. But they did not want to hear our voice.
"Then, I learned that they are looking for another head to hang from their noose."
An IHRM spokesperson added: "Iran Human Rights Monitor strongly denounces the execution of Iran protester Navid Afkari and calls on international human rights organizations to take action to stop the killing of young Iranians for exercising their genuine right to freedom of expression.
"The Iranian regime must be held accountable for its mockery of justice and killing of Iran’s youth on unfounded allegations."
The International Olympic Committee has described reports confirming the execution as "deeply upsetting" amid mounting calls for sporting sanctions.
Afkari's death comes despite the attempted intervention of the IOC and the sport's world governing body, United World Wrestling, with IOC president Thomas Bach having said on Wednesday that he was trying to "facilitate a solution".
In a statement the IOC said: "The execution of wrestler Navid Afkari in Iran is very sad news. The IOC is shocked by this announcement today.
"In letters, Thomas Bach, the IOC president, had made direct personal appeals to the Supreme Leader and to the President of Iran this week and asked for mercy for Navid Afkari, while respecting the sovereignty of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
"It is deeply upsetting that the pleas of athletes from around the world and all the behind-the-scenes work of the IOC, together with the NOC of Iran, United World Wrestling and the National Iranian Wrestling Federation, did not achieve our goal.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Navid Afkari."
Last week Brendan Schwab, the executive director of the World Players Association, had insisted that, in executing Afkari, Iran would be "forfeiting its right to be a part of sport's universal community".
Schwab tweeted on Saturday: "@WorldPlayersUtd are aware of credible & heartbreaking reports that #NavidAfkari was executed despite the work of so many courageous champions of human rights in sport. We are seeking formal confirmation. If true, we are determined to ensure Navid did not lose his life in vain."
The case renewed international calls for Iran to stop executing prisoners.
According to Amnesty International, which campaigns to abolish the death penalty, Iran is one of the world's most prolific executioners.
It has said: "In 2019, most known executions took place in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt – in that order."


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirms Harry Maguire captaincy decision

Harry Maguire will remain as Manchester United 's captain following his arrest in Greece , Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed .
Maguire was handed a suspended prison sentence following an altercation on the island of Mykonos last month .
He maintains his innocence and is appealing after being found guilty of aggravated assault , resisting arrest and attempted bribery .
There will be a full retrial at a later date Maguire was dropped for England 's matches against Iceland and Denmark , but Solskjaer has confirmed he will remain as Red Devils skipper .
Speaking to MUTV , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult summer .
`` He did n't have a long break .
His break was different to others as we gave him a few more days and , after , he 's come back and looked fine .
`` He 's handled it really well and , of course , I 'll be here to support him .
He is going to be our captain .
We 'll just leave Harry and his people and the process to run .
`` For me , he is a top , an absolute top , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive guy with the right values .
So I really hope we can see Harry performing at his best . ''
Maguire was an ever-present in the Premier League for United last term , as well as featuring 17 times in other competitions over the course of the season .
The Red Devils are not in action on the opening weekend due to their run in the Europa League , and kick-off their campaign at home to Crystal Palace next Saturday .

THE REACH FOOTBALL SHOW: OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER HAS BATTLE TO KEEP MAN UTD MIDFIELD HAPPY
THE REACH FOOTBALL SHOW: OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER HAS BATTLE TO KEEP MAN UTD MIDFIELD HAPPY
Harry Maguire will stay on as Manchester United's captain after he was arrested and charged on the Greek island of Mykonos earlier this summer
Harry Maguire will remain as Manchester United's captain following his arrest in Greece, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed.
Maguire was handed a suspended prison sentence following an altercation on the island of Mykonos last month.
He maintains his innocence and is appealing after being found guilty of aggravated assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery. There will be a full retrial at a later date
Maguire was dropped for England's matches against Iceland and Denmark, but Solskjaer has confirmed he will remain as Red Devils skipper.
Speaking to MUTV, he said: "Of course Harry had a difficult summer.
Image: Getty) Getty)
"He didn't have a long break. His break was different to others as we gave him a few more days and, after, he's come back and looked fine.
"He's handled it really well and, of course, I'll be here to support him. He is going to be our captain. We'll just leave Harry and his people and the process to run.
"For me, he is a top, an absolute top, human being and has always been a positive guy with the right values. So I really hope we can see Harry performing at his best."
Get the latest football news straight into your inbox! It's been a season of mayhem and thrill - so make sure you don't miss a single thing by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter! All the latest transfer news, headlines and hard-hitting analysis will land straight into your inbox. You won't miss out. To sign up, put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
Maguire was an ever-present in the Premier League for United last term, as well as featuring 17 times in other competitions over the course of the season.
The Red Devils are not in action on the opening weekend due to their run in the Europa League, and kick-off their campaign at home to Crystal Palace next Saturday.


thedailymirror--2020-09-13--Pharmacist saves woman's life after she bursts into chemist with swollen lips

A hero pharmacist has been praised for helping to save a woman 's life after she burst into a chemist suffering from a potentially fatal allergy reaction .
Quick-thinking Clodagh Victory administered an Epipen on the customer who had swollen lips , a swollen throat and breathing difficulties .
Now Clodagh 's proud employers Remedi Pharmacy in the IFSC have hailed a hero for her life-saving action , Dublin Live reports .
Calm Clodagh , who was on duty at the time , administered the dose after the woman rushed into the pharmacy pleading for an antihistamine .
The Trinity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Australia , and had recently started her new job , when she was dispensing prescriptions in the back of the shop on Wednesday .
Clodagh told Dublin Live : `` I tend to always keep an eye on what ’ s going on in the front of shop .
`` I noticed a girl asking for Piriton but she sounded quite stressed .
`` I went out to ask if everything was okay and she seemed in panic .
`` She told me she had a peanut allergy and had eaten a piece @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I asked her to take off her mask .
Her lips and throat were swollen and she presented with difficulty breathing . ''
Clodagh asked her manager Aneta to call an ambulance and let them know was an anaphylactic emergency .
Remaining cool , she then brought the panicked woman in and gave her the crucial injection .
`` I brought the young lady into the consultation room and gave her the Epipen , reassuring her everything was going to be okay , '' she recalls .
`` She was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` She reacted well to the first dose and her breathing began to improve . ''
The ambulance arrived around fifteen minutes later , where paramedics gave the woman IV steroids and transferred her to hospital .
Grateful ambulance staff returned to the shop a half an hour later to personally congratulate Clodagh , and the other staff members , informing them that they likely saved the woman 's life .
The woman recovered and got in touch with the pharmacy the next day to give her thanks .
`` It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff , '' Clodagh said .
`` Everyone remained calm and followed all the correct procedures .
`` The young lady contacted us the following morning to let us know that she is back home and doing well . ''
The reality of the situation really did n't sink in for Clodagh who continued doing her work after all the fuss was over .
However she was touched and thankful for all the positive messages she and the pharmacy have received in the days since their intervention .
`` A pharmacist can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best of times , '' she said .
`` I went back to filling the prescriptions for the rest of the patients waiting in the pharmacy and didn ’ t really get a chance to absorb what had happened until I went home that evening .
`` It was only then that I realised that I had saved someone 's life by acting so fast in the situation , staying calm , and following the procedures ! ''
`` I ’ m delighted with all the messages I ’ ve received , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ special thank you to Aneta , John and all the staff at Remedi for welcoming me into their lovely team .
`` It is a bit overwhelming to see all the positive messages out there . ''

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Alex Dunne, Lorraine King)

Quick-thinking Clodagh Victory, from Dublin, administered an Epipen on the customer who had swollen lips, a swollen throat and breathing difficulties after suffering a severe reaction to peanuts
Hero pharmacist saves woman's life after she bursts into chemist with swollen lips
A hero pharmacist has been praised for helping to save a woman's life after she burst into a chemist suffering from a potentially fatal allergy reaction.
Quick-thinking Clodagh Victory administered an Epipen on the customer who had swollen lips, a swollen throat and breathing difficulties.
Now Clodagh's proud employers Remedi Pharmacy in the IFSC have hailed a hero for her life-saving action, Dublin Live reports.
Calm Clodagh, who was on duty at the time, administered the dose after the woman rushed into the pharmacy pleading for an antihistamine.
The Trinity College graduate was only just back from Australia, and had recently started her new job, when she was dispensing prescriptions in the back of the shop on Wednesday.
Image: Dublin Live WS) Dublin Live WS)
Clodagh told Dublin Live: "I tend to always keep an eye on what’s going on in the front of shop.
"I noticed a girl asking for Piriton but she sounded quite stressed.
"I went out to ask if everything was okay and she seemed in panic.
"She told me she had a peanut allergy and had eaten a piece of cake that had some in it.
"I asked her to take off her mask. Her lips and throat were swollen and she presented with difficulty breathing."
Clodagh asked her manager Aneta to call an ambulance and let them know was an anaphylactic emergency.
Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images) Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Remaining cool, she then brought the panicked woman in and gave her the crucial injection.
"I brought the young lady into the consultation room and gave her the Epipen, reassuring her everything was going to be okay," she recalls.
"She was in extreme shock and panic at this stage.
"She reacted well to the first dose and her breathing began to improve."
The ambulance arrived around fifteen minutes later, where paramedics gave the woman IV steroids and transferred her to hospital.
Grateful ambulance staff returned to the shop a half an hour later to personally congratulate Clodagh, and the other staff members, informing them that they likely saved the woman's life.
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The woman recovered and got in touch with the pharmacy the next day to give her thanks.
"It was a complete team effort between all the staff," Clodagh said.
"Everyone remained calm and followed all the correct procedures.
"The young lady contacted us the following morning to let us know that she is back home and doing well."
The reality of the situation really didn't sink in for Clodagh who continued doing her work after all the fuss was over.
However she was touched and thankful for all the positive messages she and the pharmacy have received in the days since their intervention.
"A pharmacist can be a demanding and high pressure job at the best of times," she said.
"I went back to filling the prescriptions for the rest of the patients waiting in the pharmacy and didn’t really get a chance to absorb what had happened until I went home that evening.
"It was only then that I realised that I had saved someone's life by acting so fast in the situation, staying calm, and following the procedures!"
"I’m delighted with all the messages I’ve received, and I'd like to give a special thank you to Aneta, John and all the staff at Remedi for welcoming me into their lovely team.
"It is a bit overwhelming to see all the positive messages out there."


thedailymirror--2020-09-13--Hundreds attend vigil for asylum seeker found dead next to her starving child

Hundreds of people have attended a memorial service for an asylum seeker who was found dead next to her starving child .
Mercy Baguma , 34 , was found dead in her flat in Govan , Glasgow , on August 22 with her 16-month-old son Adriel crying in his cot in a blood-soaked babygrow .
Eric Nnanna , the baby 's dad , had been with Mercy for three years and alerted police when he was unable to get hold of her after several attempts .
The dad believes Mercy died four days before her body was found and said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son survived , the Daily Record reports .
More than 100 people attended a candle-lit memorial service held at Elder Park Boating Pond , in the city 's Govan area yesterday , to coincide with Mercy 's burial in Uganda .
Elder Park was chosen for the event - which was organised by Eric , also an asylum seeker - because it was a place that Mercy loved and where she spent time with her young family .
Candles and photos of Mercy , as well as balloons with her name , were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mercy 's body was driven from Edinburgh to Manchester Airport on Friday was flown to Uganda for a burial in her home town of Bugiri on Saturday evening .
Robina Qureshi , of organisers Positive Action for Housing , said : `` It ’ s sad that Mercy can ’ t be buried in Glasgow because Adriel won ’ t be able to visit his mother 's grave and lay flowers , there are so many who loved and cared for her , but it ’ s important that she is laid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day Adriel will be able to visit his mother 's grave in Eastern Uganda , with his dad .
“ The priority is to ensure that Adriel has a secure future in Glasgow .
`` We are pleased that Boris Johnson as UK Prime Minister has agreed to intervene in this case with the Home Secretary to assist the family to resolve their asylum situation quickly so that Eric and his little boy can begin to rebuild their lives .
`` Eric is an engineer and he wants to work and support his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He extends his thanks to David Linden MP for pressing his case .
“ Our focus next week is to ensure that a trust fund is set up with the help of an established Glasgow law firm to hold all funds raised which total over £75,000 and raised for Adriel ’ s future welfare by the beautiful kind hearted people of Glasgow and across Scotland and the globe .
“ Finally , we are renewing our call for a public inquiry into the deadly accommodation crisis in Glasgow .
`` More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posts on www.paih.org .
For now we want to remember Mercy and allow Eric , and Mercy ’ s friends to process their grief in private.
” Mercy had been forced to stop working by Home Office legislation and was relying on friends and charities for help .
The baby was so thin his spine could be felt when Eric , 30 , was able to hold him .
You can leave messages of condolences at this Facebook page .
The charity is trying to raise £25,000 to help Adriel , and has @ @ @ @ @

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Magdalene Dalziel, Chiara Fiorillo)

Mercy Baguma, 34, was found dead in her flat in Govan, Glasgow, on August 22 with her 16-month-old son Adriel crying in his cot in a blood-soaked babygrow. Her body was buried in Uganda
Hundreds attend vigil for asylum seeker found dead next to her starving child
Hundreds of people have attended a memorial service for an asylum seeker who was found dead next to her starving child.
Mercy Baguma, 34, was found dead in her flat in Govan, Glasgow, on August 22 with her 16-month-old son Adriel crying in his cot in a blood-soaked babygrow.
Eric Nnanna, the baby's dad, had been with Mercy for three years and alerted police when he was unable to get hold of her after several attempts.
The dad believes Mercy died four days before her body was found and said it was a "miracle" his son survived, the Daily Record reports.
Image: Robert Perry) Robert Perry)
More than 100 people attended a candle-lit memorial service held at Elder Park Boating Pond, in the city's Govan area yesterday, to coincide with Mercy's burial in Uganda.
Elder Park was chosen for the event - which was organised by Eric, also an asylum seeker - because it was a place that Mercy loved and where she spent time with her young family.
Candles and photos of Mercy, as well as balloons with her name, were laid out to remember the woman.
Mercy's body was driven from Edinburgh to Manchester Airport on Friday was flown to Uganda for a burial in her home town of Bugiri on Saturday evening.
Image: Robert Perry) Robert Perry)
Robina Qureshi, of organisers Positive Action for Housing, said: "It’s sad that Mercy can’t be buried in Glasgow because Adriel won’t be able to visit his mother's grave and lay flowers, there are so many who loved and cared for her, but it’s important that she is laid to rest.
"And hopefully, one day Adriel will be able to visit his mother's grave in Eastern Uganda, with his dad.
“The priority is to ensure that Adriel has a secure future in Glasgow.
"We are pleased that Boris Johnson as UK Prime Minister has agreed to intervene in this case with the Home Secretary to assist the family to resolve their asylum situation quickly so that Eric and his little boy can begin to rebuild their lives.
Image: Robert Perry) Robert Perry)
"Eric is an engineer and he wants to work and support his son and not rely on the state.
"He extends his thanks to David Linden MP for pressing his case.
“Our focus next week is to ensure that a trust fund is set up with the help of an established Glasgow law firm to hold all funds raised which total over £75,000 and raised for Adriel’s future welfare by the beautiful kind hearted people of Glasgow and across Scotland and the globe.
“Finally, we are renewing our call for a public inquiry into the deadly accommodation crisis in Glasgow.
"More details can be found on our blog posts on www.paih.org. For now we want to remember Mercy and allow Eric, and Mercy’s friends to process their grief in private.”
Mercy had been forced to stop working by Home Office legislation and was relying on friends and charities for help.
Image: PA) PA)
The baby was so thin his spine could be felt when Eric, 30, was able to hold him.
You can leave messages of condolences at this Facebook page.
The charity is trying to raise £25,000 to help Adriel, and has nearly reached that goal.
To donate, click here


thedailymirror--2020-09-13--Katie Melua fears 'divorce record' after split from husband after eight years

Chart topping star Katie Melua has split from husband of six years , World Superbike racer and musician James Toseland .
The 35-year-old Georgia-born British singer tied-the-knot with 39-year-old motorcycle racer James , who is also vocalist of rock band Toseland , in 2012 in a ceremony wishing the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew .
However , the pair have amicably split after six years together – with reports stating that they are remaining friends .
The star opened up about her divorce at the end of last month while speaking to Swedish magazine , VK , ahead of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No .
8 .
She told the publication : “ There is no yummy story behind it .
“ In the last song `` Remind me to forget '' I sing about it openly and honestly .
I want to leave things open for interpretation , it is the listener who must add their own experiences.
” She also explained she has a mild concern that fans might regard her new album as a “ divorce ” record .
She said : “ It 's a fear , but it 's not that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect that when a long relationship ends , it will be a big trauma .
It may have been thought that we would be incredibly depressed , sad or angry .
“ I thought that was strange because it was not so for us .
I respect him and we are friends , but we do not talk every day anymore.
” Meanwhile , a source close to the star confirmed to The Sun on Sunday that the break up was amicable .
The source said : “ They just grew apart and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Katie has been throwing herself into her work , which has really helped her.
” The singer ’ s new album is due for release on 16 October .

The chart topping singer has broken up from her husband, Superbike star and rock band member vocalist James Toseland, who she married in Kew Gardens back in 2012
Katie Melua fears fans will think new album is 'divorce record' after split from husband
Chart topping star Katie Melua has split from husband of six years, World Superbike racer and musician James Toseland.
The 35-year-old Georgia-born British singer tied-the-knot with 39-year-old motorcycle racer James, who is also vocalist of rock band Toseland, in 2012 in a ceremony wishing the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew.
However, the pair have amicably split after six years together – with reports stating that they are remaining friends.
The star opened up about her divorce at the end of last month while speaking to Swedish magazine, VK, ahead of the release of her new album, Album No. 8.
Image: PA) PA)
She told the publication: “There is no yummy story behind it.
“In the last song "Remind me to forget" I sing about it openly and honestly. I want to leave things open for interpretation, it is the listener who must add their own experiences.”
She also explained she has a mild concern that fans might regard her new album as a “divorce” record.
Image: PA) PA)
She said: “It's a fear, but it's not that big.
“It feels like people expect that when a long relationship ends, it will be a big trauma. It may have been thought that we would be incredibly depressed, sad or angry.
“I thought that was strange because it was not so for us. I respect him and we are friends, but we do not talk every day anymore.”
Meanwhile, a source close to the star confirmed to The Sun on Sunday that the break up was amicable.
Image: Western Daily Press) Western Daily Press)
The source said: “They just grew apart and realised there was no future together.
“Katie has been throwing herself into her work, which has really helped her.”
The singer’s new album is due for release on 16 October.


thedailymirror--2020-09-13--Virgil van Dijk sends message to Liverpool fans after poor performance vs Leeds

Virgil van Dijk has given fans his verdict on Liverpool 's opening game of the season - during which his howler gifted Leeds United an equaliser .
Jurgen Klopp 's Reds got their Premier League title defence off to a winning start in a seven-goal thriller at Anfield .
But they needed a late Mohamed Salah penalty to secure a 4-3 victory as promoted Leeds threatened an upset .
Hat-trick Salah had fired Liverpool into an early lead before Van Dijk did his bit , scoring a bullet header to make it 2-1 to the champions .
But the Dutch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he failed to control a ball into the Reds ' box , allowing it to run on for Patrick Bamford to slam home Leeds ' second equaliser .
Liverpool were not up to their usual standard in defence , with Jack Harrison and Mateusz Klich also scoring to give the champions a fright on the opening day of the season .
And Van Dijk admitted there were `` positive and negative '' lessons for his side to take from the game .
`` Well well that was eventful !
, '' Van Dijk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Loads of things that we could take from the game , positive and negative .
Glad to get the win and contribute with my first goal of the season ! ''
The Reds colossus posted a montage of pictures of his own contribution to the game - although tellingly not of his uncharacteristic gaffe , which one follower was quick to point out .
Ex-Reds defender Jamie Carragher slammed Van Dijk over the blunder , labelling his play `` arrogant '' after he failed to take charge of the situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared Carragher 's opinion , with one tweeting : `` Poor from Van Dijk but fair play Bamford for staying on a lost cause , took it well . ''
Will Liverpool defend their Premier League title ?
Have your say in the comments below Another added : `` Very poor from Van Dijk , too arrogant .
Bamford proving me and everyone else wrong as well . ''
And a third said : `` That was shabby coming from Van Dijk , poor defending .
He controlled the ball for the opponent @ @ @ @ @ @

Van Dijk gave his verdict after the champions made a winning start to their title defence - despite the defender's howler having gifted Premier League new boys Leeds an equaliser
Virgil van Dijk has given fans his verdict on Liverpool's opening game of the season - during which his howler gifted Leeds United an equaliser.
Jurgen Klopp's Reds got their Premier League title defence off to a winning start in a seven-goal thriller at Anfield.
But they needed a late Mohamed Salah penalty to secure a 4-3 victory as promoted Leeds threatened an upset.
Hat-trick Salah had fired Liverpool into an early lead before Van Dijk did his bit, scoring a bullet header to make it 2-1 to the champions.
But the Dutch defender then undid his good work when he failed to control a ball into the Reds' box, allowing it to run on for Patrick Bamford to slam home Leeds' second equaliser.
Image: Phil Noble/POOL/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock) Phil Noble/POOL/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Liverpool were not up to their usual standard in defence, with Jack Harrison and Mateusz Klich also scoring to give the champions a fright on the opening day of the season.
And Van Dijk admitted there were "positive and negative" lessons for his side to take from the game.
"Well well that was eventful!," Van Dijk wrote on Twitter with a laughing emoji.
"Loads of things that we could take from the game, positive and negative. Glad to get the win and contribute with my first goal of the season!"
The Reds colossus posted a montage of pictures of his own contribution to the game - although tellingly not of his uncharacteristic gaffe, which one follower was quick to point out.
Ex-Reds defender Jamie Carragher slammed Van Dijk over the blunder, labelling his play "arrogant" after he failed to take charge of the situation.
Liverpool fans watching the action from home shared Carragher's opinion, with one tweeting: "Poor from Van Dijk but fair play Bamford for staying on a lost cause, took it well."
Will Liverpool defend their Premier League title? Have your say in the comments below
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Get the latest football news straight into your inbox! It's been a season of mayhem and thrill - so make sure you don't miss a single thing by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter! All the latest transfer news, headlines and hard-hitting analysis will land straight into your inbox. You won't miss out. To sign up, put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
Another added: "Very poor from Van Dijk, too arrogant. Bamford proving me and everyone else wrong as well."
And a third said: "That was shabby coming from Van Dijk, poor defending. He controlled the ball for the opponent. Composed finishing though."


thedailymirror--2020-09-13--Solskjaer provides Pogba update after Man Utd star's positive coronavirus test

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has given an update on Paul Pogba 's fitness after the Manchester United midfielder was sidelined by a positive coronavirus test .
Pogba has only just returned to training after being forced into quarantine for two weeks , and is a doubt for United 's Premier League opener against Crystal Palace next Saturday .
The Red Devils began pre-season training later than most of their Premier League rivals after reaching the latter stages of the Europa League .
And with Pogba having returned later than most of his teammates , United 's £89million record signing will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season opener at Old Trafford .
United boss Solskjaer is hopeful the midfielder will be involved , however .
`` Paul ’ s had a couple of training sessions so he ’ s lost out on a few sessions because of the virus , of course , '' the manager Solskjaer told MUTV on Friday .
`` But Paul is quick to get fit .
Of course , he worked really hard to get back after lockdown last time and played the majority of the games . ''
An ankle injury restricted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But 14 of them came after the season resumed following the coronavirus lockdown , and the Frenchman forged a promising partnership with January signing Bruno Fernandes as United surged to a third-placed Premier league finish .
Solskjaer added : `` Hopefully , he ’ ll be ready for next weekend .
I am not 100 per cent sure though . ''
A weakened United side lost 1-0 to Aston Villa in their pre-season friendly on Saturday .
Villa new boy Ollie Watkins scored the winner , just three days after his £28m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of his squad players a chance to impress , with Odion Ighalo leading the line supported by Juan Mata , Andreas Pereira and Jesse Lingard .
Scott McTominay and Fred played at the base of the midfield .
What should United 's first-choice midfield be ?
Have your say in the comments below The only regular in the back four was Victor Lindelof , although his place could come under threat if United add a central defender before the window shuts .
Brandon Williams , Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot completed the defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal despite the presence of Dean Henderson - suggesting the Spaniard will remain as United 's No1 , for now at least .

THE REACH FOOTBALL SHOW: OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER HAS BATTLE TO KEEP MAN UTD MIDFIELD HAPPY
THE REACH FOOTBALL SHOW: OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER HAS BATTLE TO KEEP MAN UTD MIDFIELD HAPPY
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Pogba faces a race against time to be fit for Man Utd's Premier League opener against Crystal Palace next Saturday after being forced into quarantine
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has given an update on Paul Pogba's fitness after the Manchester United midfielder was sidelined by a positive coronavirus test.
Pogba has only just returned to training after being forced into quarantine for two weeks, and is a doubt for United's Premier League opener against Crystal Palace next Saturday.
The Red Devils began pre-season training later than most of their Premier League rivals after reaching the latter stages of the Europa League.
And with Pogba having returned later than most of his teammates, United's £89million record signing will have little time to get match fit before the season opener at Old Trafford.
United boss Solskjaer is hopeful the midfielder will be involved, however.
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
"Paul’s had a couple of training sessions so he’s lost out on a few sessions because of the virus, of course," the manager Solskjaer told MUTV on Friday.
"But Paul is quick to get fit. Of course, he worked really hard to get back after lockdown last time and played the majority of the games."
An ankle injury restricted Pogba to just 22 appearances last season.
But 14 of them came after the season resumed following the coronavirus lockdown, and the Frenchman forged a promising partnership with January signing Bruno Fernandes as United surged to a third-placed Premier league finish.
Solskjaer added: "Hopefully, he’ll be ready for next weekend. I am not 100 per cent sure though."
A weakened United side lost 1-0 to Aston Villa in their pre-season friendly on Saturday.
Villa new boy Ollie Watkins scored the winner, just three days after his £28m signing from Brentford.
Solskjaer gave some of his squad players a chance to impress, with Odion Ighalo leading the line supported by Juan Mata, Andreas Pereira and Jesse Lingard.
Scott McTominay and Fred played at the base of the midfield.
What should United's first-choice midfield be? Have your say in the comments below
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
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The only regular in the back four was Victor Lindelof, although his place could come under threat if United add a central defender before the window shuts.
Brandon Williams, Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot completed the defence, while David de Gea started in goal despite the presence of Dean Henderson - suggesting the Spaniard will remain as United's No1, for now at least.


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Danny Dyer splashes small fortune on exotic garden shed for wife to do ironing

EastEnders star Danny Dyer has spent a small fortune on a luxury garden shed – where his wife will do her ironing .
The 43-year-old TV star has been married to childhood sweetheart Jo Mas since 2016 – and the pair have been together since they starting dating in 1992 .
The actor – who plays Mick Carter in EastEnders – has reportedly splashed out on a £12,000 space for his 43-year-old wife to get on with her domestic chores .
Mum-Of-Thee Jo took to social media over the last week to boast about the impressive wooden cabin that her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a snap on Instagram Stories of the wood and glass building , Jo wrote : “ And… finally I get my own room to do the ironing !
!
” She added : “ I love my husband more today.
” The Sun on Sunday have suggested the shed would have cost the soap star £12k to construct .
Jo has previously praised her husband for taking care of laundry for her .
She said in a 2015 interview : “ I said , ‘ Dan I ’ ve got a pile of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got to do that .
.
.
no one else is going to iron it ’ .
“ People may think I ’ ve got nannies and cleaners , I don ’ t .
“ The following morning I woke up and the ironing was cleared .
He ’ d got it dropped off and sorted .
It ’ s those tiny things I really appreciate.
” Danny and Jo have three children together – with Love Island star daughter Dani the eldest at 23 .
They have a second daughter , 13-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arty .

AN EXTENDED LOOK AT DANNY DYERS RIGHT ROYAL FAMILY
AN EXTENDED LOOK AT DANNY DYERS RIGHT ROYAL FAMILY
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The EastEnders star has spent a reported £12,000 on a new garden shed where wife Jo Mas has vowed to carry out the ironing – and declaring her love for her husband for building it for her
Danny Dyer splashes a small fortune on exotic garden shed for wife to do the ironing
EastEnders star Danny Dyer has spent a small fortune on a luxury garden shed – where his wife will do her ironing.
The 43-year-old TV star has been married to childhood sweetheart Jo Mas since 2016 – and the pair have been together since they starting dating in 1992.
The actor – who plays Mick Carter in EastEnders – has reportedly splashed out on a £12,000 space for his 43-year-old wife to get on with her domestic chores.
Mum-Of-Thee Jo took to social media over the last week to boast about the impressive wooden cabin that her husband had built for her.
Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images) Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Sharing a snap on Instagram Stories of the wood and glass building, Jo wrote: “And… finally I get my own room to do the ironing!!”
She added: “I love my husband more today.”
The Sun on Sunday have suggested the shed would have cost the soap star £12k to construct.
Image: juanadyer/Instagram) juanadyer/Instagram)
Jo has previously praised her husband for taking care of laundry for her.
She said in a 2015 interview: “I said, ‘Dan I’ve got a pile of ironing down there, I’ve got to do that . . . no one else is going to iron it’.
“People may think I’ve got nannies and cleaners, I don’t.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
“The following morning I woke up and the ironing was cleared. He’d got it dropped off and sorted. It’s those tiny things I really appreciate.”
Danny and Jo have three children together – with Love Island star daughter Dani the eldest at 23.
They have a second daughter, 13-year-old Sunnie, and a seven-year-old son named Arty.


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--BGT's Ashley Banjo defiantly walks out to I’m Still Standing amid BLM complaints

Ashley Banjo appeared defiant at the beginning of Saturday 's Britain ’ s Got Talent as he emerged on the show stage to the tune of Sir Elton John ’ s classic song I ’ m Still Standing .
The latest episode was aired one week after the Black Lives Matter inspired dance routine by 31-year-old Ashley and his dance troupe , Diversity , sparked 15,000 Ofcom complaints .
Some feel his appearance on stage this weekend to the tune of I ’ m Still Standing serves as a message of defiance in the face of the Ofcom backlash .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ were filmed in advance and before the backlash even began , making it a happy coincidence for Ashley .
Some viewers were angered by Diversity ’ s BLM performance – claiming it was a politicised dance that was “ inappropriate ” for a family friendly show .
However , many have defended Diversity ’ s bold performance – with BGT judge Alesha Dixon telling people to kiss her “ black a** ” in response to the furore .
Meanwhile , Ashley himself – who won season three of BGT as part of Diversity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at being able to bother perform and judge on BGT as he was drafted as an extra judge on the current season while show overlord Simon Cowell recovers from injuring himself in a bike accident .
Ashley told show hosts Ant and Dec on Saturday night ’ s episode : “ I loved it , I loved being on this side of the desk but you guys got me up there as well .
“ So it 's my first week where I get to sit back and enjoy the show.
” Ofcom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will investigate BGT in light of the backlash .
A spokesperson told the MailOnline : “ We are assessing the complaints against our broadcasting rules , but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.
” The episode of BGT is now the second most complained about TV moment following CelebrityBig Brother ’ s “ punchgate ” from 2018 .
That incident was caused when ex-Coronation Street star Roxanne Pallett falsely accusing Ryan Thomas of punching her – garnering 25,327 complaints .
Fans have also defended Ashley over the suggestion his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Standing could have been in response to the Ofcom complaints .
One Twitter user wrote : “ this episode was filmed a few weeks ago before his performance even aired !
I was in the audience !
”

The Diversity star looked triumphant as he appeared on stage during the opening of this week's episode – one week after a Black Lives Matter inspired dance provoked a backlash
BGT's Ashley Banjo walks out to I’m Still Standing after 15,000 BLM dance complaints
Ashley Banjo appeared defiant at the beginning of Saturday's Britain’s Got Talent as he emerged on the show stage to the tune of Sir Elton John’s classic song I’m Still Standing.
The latest episode was aired one week after the Black Lives Matter inspired dance routine by 31-year-old Ashley and his dance troupe, Diversity, sparked 15,000 Ofcom complaints.
Some feel his appearance on stage this weekend to the tune of I’m Still Standing serves as a message of defiance in the face of the Ofcom backlash.
However, the semi-final episodes of BGT were filmed in advance and before the backlash even began, making it a happy coincidence for Ashley.
Image: ITV) ITV)
Some viewers were angered by Diversity’s BLM performance – claiming it was a politicised dance that was “inappropriate” for a family friendly show.
However, many have defended Diversity’s bold performance – with BGT judge Alesha Dixon telling people to kiss her “black a**” in response to the furore.
Meanwhile, Ashley himself – who won season three of BGT as part of Diversity in 2009 – has expressed his joy at being able to bother perform and judge on BGT as he was drafted as an extra judge on the current season while show overlord Simon Cowell recovers from injuring himself in a bike accident.
Image: ITV) ITV)
Ashley told show hosts Ant and Dec on Saturday night’s episode: “I loved it, I loved being on this side of the desk but you guys got me up there as well.
“So it's my first week where I get to sit back and enjoy the show.”
Ofcom have so far refused to reveal if they will investigate BGT in light of the backlash.
A spokesperson told the MailOnline: “We are assessing the complaints against our broadcasting rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.”
The episode of BGT is now the second most complained about TV moment following Celebrity Big Brother ’s “punchgate” from 2018.
Image: ITV) ITV)
That incident was caused when ex-Coronation Street star Roxanne Pallett falsely accusing Ryan Thomas of punching her – garnering 25,327 complaints.
Fans have also defended Ashley over the suggestion his stage appearance to I’m Still Standing could have been in response to the Ofcom complaints.
One Twitter user wrote: “this episode was filmed a few weeks ago before his performance even aired! I was in the audience!”


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Man Utd to target Gareth Bale if Jadon Sancho transfer bid fails

Manchester United will swoop for Gareth Bale if they continue to be frustrated in their pursuit of Jadon Sancho .
With Borussia Dortmund continuing to play hardball over top target Sancho , Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's side are ready to offer Bale an escape route from his Real Madrid nightmare .
The Wales star is believed to be available on a permanent transfer for around £22million , with Madrid feeling the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
But it is understood United will seek a loan move , with Madrid sharing the cost of Bale 's huge salary .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last summer but were deterred by the forward 's £600,000-per-week wages .
But it is understood United chiefs will sanction a move this time around if conditions are more favourable , amid reports Bale is willing to take a pay cut in order to leave the Bernabeu .
The former Tottenham star has hardly played for Madrid this year having fallen out of favour under head coach Zinedine Zidane - despite Los Blancos having blocked his proposed move to China last summer .
Left-back Sergio Reguilon has also been linked with a move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trained away from the rest of the Madrid squad on Friday .
However , according to Marca , it was only as both players are currently nursing injuries .
Reguilon has been offered to United as Madrid try to offload the defender to raise funds for their own transfer business .
He enjoyed an impressive campaign on loan at Sevilla last season , helping them to win the Europa League , but the 23-year-old is deemed to be behind Marcelo and Ferland Mendy in the Madrid pecking order .
Madrid value Reguilon at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be prioritising signing an attacking player rather than adding another full-back to their ranks .
Should United cough up for Sancho or swoop for Bale instead ?
Have your say in the comments below Dortmund winger Sancho has been the Red Devils ' top target all summer , and agreement is thought to have been reached over personal terms .
However the Bundesliga club are adamant they want £108m for the 20-year-old England star , while United are believed to value him at around £80m .

TRANSFER UPDATE: REAL MADRID WILLING TO COVER HALF OF GARETH BALE'S WAGE TO FACILITATE MOVE
TRANSFER UPDATE: REAL MADRID WILLING TO COVER HALF OF GARETH BALE'S WAGE TO FACILITATE MOVE
The Premier League side are ready to offer Bale an escape route from his Real Madrid nightmare with Borussia Dortmund continuing to play hardball over the price tag for Sancho
Manchester United will swoop for Gareth Bale if they continue to be frustrated in their pursuit of Jadon Sancho.
With Borussia Dortmund continuing to play hardball over top target Sancho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side are ready to offer Bale an escape route from his Real Madrid nightmare.
The Wales star is believed to be available on a permanent transfer for around £22million, with Madrid feeling the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
But it is understood United will seek a loan move, with Madrid sharing the cost of Bale's huge salary.
The Red Devils were keen on Bale last summer but were deterred by the forward's £600,000-per-week wages.
Image: INSTAGRAM) INSTAGRAM)
But it is understood United chiefs will sanction a move this time around if conditions are more favourable, amid reports Bale is willing to take a pay cut in order to leave the Bernabeu.
The former Tottenham star has hardly played for Madrid this year having fallen out of favour under head coach Zinedine Zidane - despite Los Blancos having blocked his proposed move to China last summer.
Left-back Sergio Reguilon has also been linked with a move to United, and he and Bale trained away from the rest of the Madrid squad on Friday.
However, according to Marca, it was only as both players are currently nursing injuries.
Reguilon has been offered to United as Madrid try to offload the defender to raise funds for their own transfer business.
He enjoyed an impressive campaign on loan at Sevilla last season, helping them to win the Europa League, but the 23-year-old is deemed to be behind Marcelo and Ferland Mendy in the Madrid pecking order.
Madrid value Reguilon at £27m, but United are believed to be prioritising signing an attacking player rather than adding another full-back to their ranks.
Should United cough up for Sancho or swoop for Bale instead? Have your say in the comments below
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Get the latest football news straight into your inbox! It's been a season of mayhem and thrill - so make sure you don't miss a single thing by signing up for the brilliant new Mirror Football newsletter! All the latest transfer news, headlines and hard-hitting analysis will land straight into your inbox. You won't miss out. To sign up, put your email at the top of this article or follow the instructions on this link.
Dortmund winger Sancho has been the Red Devils' top target all summer, and agreement is thought to have been reached over personal terms.
However the Bundesliga club are adamant they want £108m for the 20-year-old England star, while United are believed to value him at around £80m.


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Apple store 'barred disabled man in shop despite him wearing a face visor'

A disabled man said he was stopped from entering an Apple store because he did n't have a face mask despite him showing proof he was exempt from having to wear one .
Martin Splatt said he was told that the store `` did n't care '' and that he `` needed to leave '' after he showed workers his disability lanyard and ScotRail card which shows he is exempt from wearing a face covering whilst traveling .
The 35-year-old from Edinburgh said he felt 'dehumanised ' after the embarrassing incident .
Martin currently uses a wheelchair and is exempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the current government guidelines , Edinburgh Live reports .
He said after queuing to enter the store on August 25 , he was approached by a member of staff who told him he would need to wear a face covering .
Have you been barred from entering a store for not wearing a mask despite being able to prove you are exempt ?
Email webnews @ mirror.co.uk But despite showing workers the necessary credential that proves he is exempt , he was told that the store `` did n't care '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Martin said : `` I 'm a wheelchair user and I was trying to go in to get a cable for my phone .
I queued up normally and when I tried to go in a member of staff stopped me at the door and told my I had to wear a face mask .
`` I 'm exempt from wearing one so I showed him the ScotRail card I have to show why I do n't wear one on the train and a disability lanyard but after looking at it they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Even though I said I was exempt under the government guidelines they said it was because it was a private building I could n't come in . ''
After leaving the store Martin said he returned later in the day with a face visor/shield , which he believed would be enough for him to be allowed in , but he was turned away again .
He added : `` I thought that would surely be OK. '' I ca n't wear a face mask as I really struggle to breathe in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I got told I could either wear a mask under my shield or stay outside .
`` They told me the rules were n't applicable in their store , but every other store I went into on Princes Street was fine to let me in .
`` It 's wrong and it made me feel like I was n't human , it 's a public shopping area and the government says I 'm exempt so why ca n't I be in there . ''
In a similar case Jennie Dobson was attending an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Metrocentre near Gateshead with daughters Ellë , 21 , and Mia , 16 , to get help resetting their iPhones earlier this month .
Ellë is exempt from wearing a mask but despite displaying her disability lanyard she was also stopped from entering the store .
Regarding the incident in Edinburgh , Apple declined to comment however a copy of their face mask policy reads : `` If a customer is unable to wear a face mask due to an existing medical condition or disability ( or for any other reason as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Apple will offer reasonable alternative shopping or support options .
• Serving customers digitally ( via call , chat , or Apple Support App , Apple Store App , or contact centres ) , • Offer customers temporary use of a face shield while in store , or • Offer to serve customers without a mask outside of trading hours .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Sean Traynor, Lorraine King)

Joan Collins kicked out of kicked out of Ikea for not wearing mask
Joan Collins kicked out of kicked out of Ikea for not wearing mask
Martin Splatt, 35, from Edinburgh, said he was told that the store "didn't care" and that he "needed to leave" after he showed workers proof that he was exempt from wearing a face mask
A disabled man said he was stopped from entering an Apple store because he didn't have a face mask despite him showing proof he was exempt from having to wear one.
Martin Splatt said he was told that the store "didn't care" and that he "needed to leave" after he showed workers his disability lanyard and ScotRail card which shows he is exempt from wearing a face covering whilst traveling.
The 35-year-old from Edinburgh said he felt 'dehumanised' after the embarrassing incident.
Martin currently uses a wheelchair and is exempt from having to wear a face mask under the current government guidelines, Edinburgh Live reports.
He said after queuing to enter the store on August 25, he was approached by a member of staff who told him he would need to wear a face covering.
Have you been barred from entering a store for not wearing a mask despite being able to prove you are exempt? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk
But despite showing workers the necessary credential that proves he is exempt, he was told that the store "didn't care" and that he "needed to leave".
Martin said: "I'm a wheelchair user and I was trying to go in to get a cable for my phone. I queued up normally and when I tried to go in a member of staff stopped me at the door and told my I had to wear a face mask.
"I'm exempt from wearing one so I showed him the ScotRail card I have to show why I don't wear one on the train and a disability lanyard but after looking at it they said I still couldn't come in.
"Even though I said I was exempt under the government guidelines they said it was because it was a private building I couldn't come in."
Image: EdinburghLive/ WS) EdinburghLive/ WS)
After leaving the store Martin said he returned later in the day with a face visor/shield, which he believed would be enough for him to be allowed in, but he was turned away again.
He added: "I thought that would surely be OK.
"I can't wear a face mask as I really struggle to breathe in them, but when I went back I got told I could either wear a mask under my shield or stay outside.
"They told me the rules weren't applicable in their store, but every other store I went into on Princes Street was fine to let me in.
Image: EdinburghLive/ WS) EdinburghLive/ WS)
"It's wrong and it made me feel like I wasn't human, it's a public shopping area and the government says I'm exempt so why can't I be in there."
In a similar case Jennie Dobson was attending an in-store appointment at the Apple Store in the Metrocentre near Gateshead with daughters Ellë, 21, and Mia, 16, to get help resetting their iPhones earlier this month.
Ellë is exempt from wearing a mask but despite displaying her disability lanyard she was also stopped from entering the store.
Regarding the incident in Edinburgh, Apple declined to comment however a copy of their face mask policy reads: "If a customer is unable to wear a face mask due to an existing medical condition or disability (or for any other reason as set out within the relevant legislation), Apple will offer reasonable alternative shopping or support options.
We will:


thedailymirror--2020-09-12--Revellers enjoy last Saturday night out before Covid-19 'rule of six' kicks in

Revellers enjoyed one last boozy night out with mates before new rules banning gatherings in bigger groups kick in .
The 'rule of six ' takes effect in England on Monday - prohibiting larger groups mingling indoors or outdoors in a bid to curb the spread of coronavirus .
The government is bringing in the new law in response to a growing in coronavirus cases around the UK , sparking fresh local lockdowns .
Today the UK recorded almost 3,500 new cases with the R-rate thought to be above 1 nationally , meaning it is growing exponentially .
Brits were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead of the new law and fines coming into place from Monday .
Hordes were pictured in Soho , in the heart of London 's nightlife district tonight packing the streets outside its bars and restaurants tonight 's .
The popular West End spot has attracted big weekend crowds since its establishments reopened on so-called 'Super Saturday . '
Authorities up and down the country were concerned some revellers would take the opportunity for a big weekend blowout before restrictions came into force .
Pictures from Soho tonight showed some revellers appearing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on people to keep a metre or more apart from members of other households to keep the virus ' spread down .
John Apter , from the Police Federation of England and Wales , had warned earlier : `` There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday . ''
It comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock singled out young people for criticism , saying transmission among teems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were driving fresh outbreaks .
However critics fired back at the government , pointing out its Eat Out to Help Out scheme and lifting of travel restrictions encouraged socialising .
Boris Johnson 's government was also slammed for encouraging the nation back into offices and pupils back into schools - even as it struggles with the Test and Trace fiasco that has seen scores struggle to access diagnoses in recent weeks .
Scotland also followed Westminster 's lead , and is also set to prohibit gatherings of more than six as it grapples @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases were recorded in the UK today for the second day in a row for the first time since early May .
A top scientist warned that the country is `` on the edge of losing control '' of Covid-19 .
Former chief scientific adviser and member of the government scientific advisory group SAGE Sir Mark Walport said the only way to stop the virus spreading is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with .
He added that there is an `` extremely strong argument '' that home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid-19 lockdown measures were announced on Friday as cases continued to rise .
Concern about a second wave is growing as the R number - the reproduction number of coronavirus transmission - climbed above one .
According to Government advisers , the last time R was above one was in early March .

Punters in popular London night spot Soho crowded the bars and streets before England's new law prohibiting gatherings of more than six takes effect on Monday
Revellers enjoy last Saturday night out before coronavirus 'rule of six' kicks in
Revellers enjoyed one last boozy night out with mates before new rules banning gatherings in bigger groups kick in.
The 'rule of six' takes effect in England on Monday - prohibiting larger groups mingling indoors or outdoors in a bid to curb the spread of coronavirus.
The government is bringing in the new law in response to a growing in coronavirus cases around the UK, sparking fresh local lockdowns.
Today the UK recorded almost 3,500 new cases with the R-rate thought to be above 1 nationally, meaning it is growing exponentially.
Brits were warned not to have a party weekend ahead of the new law and fines coming into place from Monday.
Hordes were pictured in Soho, in the heart of London's nightlife district tonight packing the streets outside its bars and restaurants tonight's.
Image: North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk) North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)
The popular West End spot has attracted big weekend crowds since its establishments reopened on so-called 'Super Saturday.'
Trendy eateries turned traffic-free streets into al fresco dining promenades.
Authorities up and down the country were concerned some revellers would take the opportunity for a big weekend blowout before restrictions came into force.
Image: NB PRESS LTD) NB PRESS LTD)
Image: NB PRESS LTD) NB PRESS LTD)
Pictures from Soho tonight showed some revellers appearing to flout social distancing guidelines, which call on people to keep a metre or more apart from members of other households to keep the virus' spread down.
John Apter, from the Police Federation of England and Wales, had warned earlier: "There is a real risk some members of the public will take advantage of the current situation and treat this weekend as a party weekend ahead of the tighter restrictions being introduced on Monday."
It comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock singled out young people for criticism, saying transmission among teems and people in their 20s and 30s were driving fresh outbreaks.
Image: NB PRESS LTD) NB PRESS LTD) Image: North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk) North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)
However critics fired back at the government, pointing out its Eat Out to Help Out scheme and lifting of travel restrictions encouraged socialising.
Boris Johnson's government was also slammed for encouraging the nation back into offices and pupils back into schools - even as it struggles with the Test and Trace fiasco that has seen scores struggle to access diagnoses in recent weeks.
Scotland also followed Westminster's lead, and is also set to prohibit gatherings of more than six as it grapples with outbreaks.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
More than 3,000 coronavirus cases were recorded in the UK today for the second day in a row for the first time since early May.
A top scientist warned that the country is "on the edge of losing control" of Covid-19.
Former chief scientific adviser and member of the government scientific advisory group SAGE Sir Mark Walport said the only way to stop the virus spreading is to reduce the number of people we all come into contact with.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
He added that there is an "extremely strong argument" that home working should continue.
The tough new Covid-19 lockdown measures were announced on Friday as cases continued to rise.
Concern about a second wave is growing as the R number - the reproduction number of coronavirus transmission - climbed above one.
According to Government advisers, the last time R was above one was in early March.