thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Keir Starmer's 7-point plan for what the government must do now

Sir Keir Starmer has called on Boris Johnson to form a `` national consensus '' on the next phase of the coronavirus response as ministers work on plans to ease the lockdown .
Labour has outlined seven principles that it wants the Government to consider when planning for the next phase .
These include enforcing a `` national safety standard '' for businesses and schools , setting an `` ambitious target '' for contact tracing and introducing bespoke support for individuals and industries facing huge challenges , such as the hospitality sector .
The Labour leader has backed the extension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Prime Minister this week and pledged to work `` constructively '' with the Government .
But he continued his criticism of Mr Johnson 's handling of the crisis , saying ministers have been behind on testing , protective equipment and implementing the lockdown .
`` We want to support the Government to get this right and that is why we need a national consensus on what happens next , '' Sir Keir said .
`` Our priority is protecting the public 's health and saving lives .
That is why we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions staying in place at this time .
`` However , we need to be honest with the public about the challenges ahead .
We are in this for the long haul .
It is imperative that the Government is properly planning for what happens next and properly supporting our NHS and social care services . ''
Sir Keir acknowledged public concerns about returning to work after more than six weeks of being told to stay home to protect themselves , loved ones and the NHS .
`` People rightly need confidence it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work , travel or use public services , '' Sir Keir added .
A national plan to ensure supply chains for protective equipment for key workers are guaranteed and a `` structured approach to easing and tightening restrictions '' must also be formed , Labour said .
Ministers must legally review the current measures by May 7 , while the PM is expected to set out a `` roadmap '' setting out the next steps on Sunday .
The Government hopes the “ test , track and trace ” approach – eventually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trialled on the Isle of Wight – will allow it to take a localised approach .
So if a city such as Manchester , for example , became a virus hotspot after the lockdown had been eased , testing could begin on a large scale and contact-tracers deployed .
A source said : “ If you saw a worrying increases of transmission in regions , then you would want to move quickly to try to stop those.
” Schools and non-essential shops could be closed , to help drive back down the crucial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of the country continued as normal .
Wearing face masks is likely to be the new normal for shoppers still fearing a second wave of the virus .
As part of the national easing of restrictions , the PM is expected to say primary schools could reopen for some pupils – most likely Year Six – as early as June 1 .
But other tough restrictions will remain until there is a vaccine , with cinemas , pubs and theatres likely to stay closed for months .
And those who can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to continue .
Department of Business officials are drawing up guidance to get people back to work in the coming weeks .
Recommendations could include staggering shift times to ease the rush hour , avoiding hot-desking or sharing pens , closing lifts and canteens .
Bosses are currently advised to keep workers two metres apart wherever possible .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Nicola Bartlett, Sam Blewett)

The Labour leader has backed the extension of the strict measures ahead of talks with the Prime Minister this week and pledged to work "constructively" with the Government
Coronavirus: Keir Starmer's 7-point plan for what the government must do now
Sir Keir Starmer has called on Boris Johnson to form a "national consensus" on the next phase of the coronavirus response as ministers work on plans to ease the lockdown.
Labour has outlined seven principles that it wants the Government to consider when planning for the next phase.
These include enforcing a "national safety standard" for businesses and schools, setting an "ambitious target" for contact tracing and introducing bespoke support for individuals and industries facing huge challenges, such as the hospitality sector.
The Labour leader has backed the extension of the strict measures ahead of talks with the Prime Minister this week and pledged to work "constructively" with the Government.
But he continued his criticism of Mr Johnson's handling of the crisis, saying ministers have been behind on testing, protective equipment and implementing the lockdown.
"We want to support the Government to get this right and that is why we need a national consensus on what happens next," Sir Keir said.
"Our priority is protecting the public's health and saving lives. That is why we supported the lockdown and again support the restrictions staying in place at this time.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
"However, we need to be honest with the public about the challenges ahead. We are in this for the long haul. It is imperative that the Government is properly planning for what happens next and properly supporting our NHS and social care services."
Sir Keir acknowledged public concerns about returning to work after more than six weeks of being told to stay home to protect themselves, loved ones and the NHS.
"People rightly need confidence it's safe before they go back out to work, travel or use public services," Sir Keir added.
A national plan to ensure supply chains for protective equipment for key workers are guaranteed and a "structured approach to easing and tightening restrictions" must also be formed, Labour said.
Ministers must legally review the current measures by May 7, while the PM is expected to set out a "roadmap" setting out the next steps on Sunday.
The Government hopes the “test, track and trace” approach – eventually used alongside the new NHS app being trialled on the Isle of Wight – will allow it to take a localised approach.
Image: PA) PA)
So if a city such as Manchester, for example, became a virus hotspot after the lockdown had been eased, testing could begin on a large scale and contact-tracers deployed.
A source said: “If you saw a worrying increases of transmission in regions, then you would want to move quickly to try to stop those.”
Schools and non-essential shops could be closed, to help drive back down the crucial R transmission rate between people, while the rest of the country continued as normal.
Wearing face masks is likely to be the new normal for shoppers still fearing a second wave of the virus.
As part of the national easing of restrictions, the PM is expected to say primary schools could reopen for some pupils – most likely Year Six – as early as June 1.
Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror) Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
But other tough restrictions will remain until there is a vaccine, with cinemas, pubs and theatres likely to stay closed for months.
And those who can work from home are expected to be asked to continue. Department of Business officials are drawing up guidance to get people back to work in the coming weeks.
Recommendations could include staggering shift times to ease the rush hour, avoiding hot-desking or sharing pens, closing lifts and canteens. Bosses are currently advised to keep workers two metres apart wherever possible.


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--World’s smallest and rarest breed of kittens born in UK - and they're very cute

A tiny pair of endangered cats , born no bigger than a mouse , have been born in the UK .
The rusty-spotted cats , the world 's rarest and smallest breed , have been filmed in an adorable video of them snuggling up to their mum .
The duo were born at the Rusty Spotted Cat Conservation Breeding Programme at Porfell Wildlife Park in Cornwall .
They species is native of Sri Lanka and India , and are reported to measure between 35cm and 48cm from nose to tail when fully grown .
A spokeswoman for the programme said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity to take on a pair of Rusty-spotted cats , had an enclosure spare and were excited to have something so rare .
`` To our understanding we are estimating that there are only around 50 of this species being kept in captivity across the world .
`` The pair came from the Feral – Wild Animal Project run by Todd Dalton and are part of a breeding program .
`` The cubs/kittens are coming up to eight weeks old and have been well looked after by mum . ''
She added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as she ’ s so protective and doesn ’ t let us too near .
`` They have only recently been spotted out of their den and seem to be getting more curious each day .
`` They both seem very healthy and have started to show a little bit of personality .
`` They ’ ve been giving our very small team a lot of joy during this all this uncertainty and put a smile on our faces each morning . ''

World’s smallest kittens have been born in the UK
World’s smallest kittens have been born in the UK
Two of the tiny endangered rusty-spotted cats, born no bigger than a mouse, have arrived at an animal sanctuary in Cornwall and are seen snuggling up to their mum
World’s smallest and rarest breed of kittens born in UK - and they're very cute
A tiny pair of endangered cats, born no bigger than a mouse, have been born in the UK.
The rusty-spotted cats, the world's rarest and smallest breed, have been filmed in an adorable video of them snuggling up to their mum.
The duo were born at the Rusty Spotted Cat Conservation Breeding Programme at Porfell Wildlife Park in Cornwall.
They species is native of Sri Lanka and India, and are reported to measure between 35cm and 48cm from nose to tail when fully grown.
A spokeswoman for the programme said: "Last summer we had the opportunity to take on a pair of Rusty-spotted cats, had an enclosure spare and were excited to have something so rare.
"To our understanding we are estimating that there are only around 50 of this species being kept in captivity across the world.
"The pair came from the Feral – Wild Animal Project run by Todd Dalton and are part of a breeding program.
"The cubs/kittens are coming up to eight weeks old and have been well looked after by mum."
Image: Porfell Wildlife Park &Sanctuary SWNS) Porfell Wildlife Park &Sanctuary SWNS)
She added: ‘We are unsure of their gender as she’s so protective and doesn’t let us too near.
"They have only recently been spotted out of their den and seem to be getting more curious each day.
"They both seem very healthy and have started to show a little bit of personality.
"They’ve been giving our very small team a lot of joy during this all this uncertainty and put a smile on our faces each morning."


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Top scientists publish stark coronavirus warnings to PM - 9 things we've learned

We finally know more about Boris Johnson 's coronavirus response after crucial scientific documents were revealed to the nation .
More than a dozen papers have been published that show exactly how the government 's scientific advice during the pandemic unfolded .
The documents from SAGE ( Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ) show Boris Johnson finally imposed the lockdown after he was warned intensive care would fill up within a fortnight .
And he boasted he was shaking hands with `` everybody '' - on the same day experts said he should tell the public to stop shaking hands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because the PM has always said he 's `` guided by the science '' .
Sign up to get the Mirror ’ s daily coronavirus briefing email at mirror.co.uk/email They show this is more or less true .
But the documents also show the science is never one clear piece of advice .
And in a few cases , the government 's action did not match up with what the documents say .
For example , scientists appeared to say they were happy with a London-only shutdown of bars and restaurants rather than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , after days of debate , went with a UK-wide shutdown instead .
Meanwhile , the documents clearly spell out the dangers in the next phase when lockdown begins to ease .
They warn any easing of lockdown must be `` very gradual '' - and give people back some of their leisure activities , not just restart the economy .
And the scientists warn rogue bosses could exploit any system of `` immunity passports '' to hand riskier jobs to those who 've already had Covid-19 .
1 .
Boris Johnson imposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fill up in 11 days Boris Johnson took his lockdown decision after being warned intensive care beds would fill up in 11 days .
A `` consensus view '' on March 20 , from the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling , warned the virus was doubling every three to five days .
It said : `` It is very likely that we will see ICU capacity in London breached by the end of the month , even if additional measures are put in place today .
`` The rest of the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the absence of additional measures being put into place in the next few days , it is likely that we will breach ICU capacity in other regions . ''
The Prime Minister - who had stopped short of a full lockdown - then announced one on March 23 .
SAGE warned even a lockdown would not stop capacity being breached , because it would take two to three weeks to take effect .
But the NHS then announced the first of its Nightingale hospitals on March 24 - which meant the first peak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 .
Scientists agreed handshakes should stop - on the same day Boris Johnson boasted about shaking hands The government 's advisors agreed handshakes should stop - on the same day Boris Johnson boasted he 'd shaken hands with `` everybody '' at a hospital .
The Independent Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Behaviours , a subcommittee of stage , issued its advice on March 3 .
It said : `` There was agreement that Government should advise against greetings such as shaking hands and hugging , given existing evidence about the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replacement greeting or encouraging others to politely decline a proffered hand-shake may have benefit . ''
Yet on the same day , Boris Johnson said he had not stopped shaking hands .
He told the No10 press conference : `` I was at a hospital the other night where I think a few there were actually coronavirus patients .
`` And I shook hands with everybody , you 'll be pleased to know , and I continue to shake hands . ''
Mr Johnson later said he 'd stopped shaking hands .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice before making his comments on March 3 .
The document was only a submission to SAGE from its own subcommittee , not a report from SAGE to the government .
3 .
The virus was spreading much faster than the scientists thought SAGE admitted in late March that the ' R ' number - the number of people each Covid-19 carrier infects - was higher than they first thought .
They had previously estimated it at 2.4 , but on March 20 admitted `` we can not rule out it being higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was spreading far faster than the government or the scientists had thought .
Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Patrick Vallance has since said the R number was 3 in the early stages .
4 .
Scientists lent support to a London-only lockdown - but it did n't happen The week of March 15 was gripped by rumours of a `` London lockdown '' .
These rumours were angrily denied at the time by Downing Street , which ( correctly ) said travel in and out of the capital would not be stopped .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does n't mean banning all transport .
And the documents show the rumours were much closer to the truth than Downing Street would have us believe .
SAGE held a discussion on March 17-18 about what it called - in its own words - a `` London lockdown . ''
The scientists agreed shutting schools , bars , restaurants , theatres and offices would have the greatest effect on transmitting the virus .
And they made clear it could be London-only .
The summary of the debate said : `` Concerns were raised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people travel and seed the virus in other places .
`` It was confirmed that seeding in this way should not be a concern as infections are already present outside London . ''
But Boris Johnson decided not to do this .
Instead he announced on March 20 that people should stop going to pubs , restaurants and bars UK-wide .
A UK-wide lockdown followed on March 23 .
Similarly , SAGE evidence on April 1 shows experts suggested regional pilots of lifting the lockdown .
But the government is not following this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eased UK-wide - but could be reimposed locally if there 's a spike in one area .
Scientists hit out at the government 's `` confusing '' stay-at-home guidance before it was tightened up to herald the UK-wide lockdown .
Original advice - now withdrawn - said people should work from home `` where possible '' and `` avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible '' .
But on March 22 , SAGE scientists agreed that was not clear enough to stop people putting themselves at risk .
They wrote : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is practicable ’ , ‘ non-essential ’ , ‘ significantly limit ’ , and ‘ gathering ’ are open to wide differences in interpretation .
`` This can lead to confusion about exactly what people are being required to do ( e.g .
gathering outside or going for walks ) .
Guidance now needs to be reformulated to be behaviourally specific . ''
They also said the guidance must be combined with `` hard-hitting emotional messaging '' showing people the `` personal threat '' to their health .
6 .
The experts warn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gradually' More recent guidance from April 1 shows scientists agree the lockdown can not be lifted in a hurry .
They say this is n't just because of the health benefits - if there 's a second peak , it will undermine the entire public 's trust in government advice .
The paper was drawn up by the scientific pandemic influenza group on behaviour ( SPI-B ) .
It says : `` If there is then an increase in infection rates that necessitates a reintroduction of restrictions this is likely to be seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust in public health advice will be lost , leading to lower adherence to advice to restrict or to resume activity .
`` To avoid these problems we would advocate trialling easing restrictions very gradually when epidemiologically indicated .
`` While clearly explaining why these particular activities are being resumed and how risks must be controlled if these activities are to be maintained . ''
7 .
Lockdown must not just ease for work - leisure is important too In the same meeting on April 1 , scientists urged the government to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just work .
`` To maintain public trust and support it will be important to have acceptable and equitable criteria for selecting which activities can be resumed , '' they agreed .
`` For example , it may be difficult to justify easing restrictions solely for economic activities without any easing of restrictions for low risk activities with significant social and psychological benefit . ''
8 .
'Immunity passports ' could be hijacked by rogue employers - and put staff at risk Rogue bosses could give riskier jobs to people who have had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 're not , the advisors say .
In a paper on April 13 , the scientific pandemic influenza group on behaviour ( SPI-B ) said employers might `` actively discriminate '' against workers who were not shown to have antibodies .
The experts also say any 'immunity passports ' - which have not yet been proven to work - could be hijacked by people trying to `` game the system '' .
It 's not yet been proven if having antibodies makes you immune to getting Covid-19 twice .
And there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government 's advice warns even a 2 % fail rate could lead to dozens of people in every thousand going back to work , or isolating , with the wrong advice .
The note added : `` Some employers may discriminate on the basis of antibody status .
`` This might include not permitting those testing antibody negative to return to work or only taking on new staff with antibody positive test results .
`` Work may also be allocated among employees based on test status with , for example , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have tested antibody positive .
`` In some circumstances this may be appropriate , but in others this might constitute adverse discrimination .
This risk applies across all occupational sectors . ''
The note also warned about the risk of people trying to `` game '' the system by attempting to purchase a fake test result one way or the other .
Some of the behavioural scientists suggested publicising the concept of `` herd immunity '' - to explain why the UK was not imposing social distancing measures in early March .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` herd immunity '' was never its plan .
Instead , they 've more described it as a fact of life - the only way to permanently protect the population is through 'herd immunity ' , either by a vaccine or lots of people getting sick and recovering .
But this is n't government policy ( so they insist ) because it would lead to hundreds of thousands of deaths .
A paper dated March 4 , considered by Sage on March 5 , said : `` SPI-B ( scientific pandemic influenza group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impact of not applying widescale social isolation at the same time as recommending isolation to at-risk groups .
`` One view is that explaining that members of the community are building some immunity will make this acceptable .
`` Another view is that recommending isolation to only one section of society risks causing discontent . ''
If you 've found this article helpful , sign up for the Mirror 's daily coronavirus briefing email , which will land in your inbox each evening after the government 's press conference .

Newly-revealed papers show Boris Johnson called lockdown after he was warned ICU would fill up in 11 days. He carried on shaking hands despite scientific advice - and now faces new warnings of how people could be put at risk. Here are nine things we've learned
We finally know more about Boris Johnson's coronavirus response after crucial scientific documents were revealed to the nation.
More than a dozen papers have been published that show exactly how the government's scientific advice during the pandemic unfolded.
The documents from SAGE (Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies) show Boris Johnson finally imposed the lockdown after he was warned intensive care would fill up within a fortnight.
And he boasted he was shaking hands with "everybody" - on the same day experts said he should tell the public to stop shaking hands.
The papers are a crucial revelation because the PM has always said he's "guided by the science".
Sign up to get the Mirror’s daily coronavirus briefing email at mirror.co.uk/email
They show this is more or less true. But the documents also show the science is never one clear piece of advice.
And in a few cases, the government's action did not match up with what the documents say.
For example, scientists appeared to say they were happy with a London-only shutdown of bars and restaurants rather than a UK-wide closure.
But the government, after days of debate, went with a UK-wide shutdown instead.
Meanwhile, the documents clearly spell out the dangers in the next phase when lockdown begins to ease.
They warn any easing of lockdown must be "very gradual" - and give people back some of their leisure activities, not just restart the economy.
And the scientists warn rogue bosses could exploit any system of "immunity passports" to hand riskier jobs to those who've already had Covid-19.
Here are 9 things we've learned today.
1. Boris Johnson imposed lockdown after he was told ICU would fill up in 11 days
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
Boris Johnson took his lockdown decision after being warned intensive care beds would fill up in 11 days.
A "consensus view" on March 20, from the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling, warned the virus was doubling every three to five days.
It said: "It is very likely that we will see ICU capacity in London breached by the end of the month, even if additional measures are put in place today.
"The rest of the UK is 1-2 weeks behind London. In the absence of additional measures being put into place in the next few days, it is likely that we will breach ICU capacity in other regions."
The Prime Minister - who had stopped short of a full lockdown - then announced one on March 23.
SAGE warned even a lockdown would not stop capacity being breached, because it would take two to three weeks to take effect.
But the NHS then announced the first of its Nightingale hospitals on March 24 - which meant the first peak did not exceed intensive care capacity.
2. Boris Johnson boasted about shaking hands - on the same day scientists said not to
Image: Sky) Sky)
Boris Johnson boasted he'd shaken hands with "everybody" at a hospital - on the same day the advisors agreed handshakes should stop.
The Independent Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Behaviours, a subcommittee of SAGE, issued its advice on March 3.
It said: "There was agreement that Government should advise against greetings such as shaking hands and hugging, given existing evidence about the importance of hand hygiene.
"Promoting a replacement greeting or encouraging others to politely decline a proffered hand-shake may have benefit."
Yet on the same day, Boris Johnson said he had not stopped shaking hands.
He told the No10 press conference: "I was at a hospital the other night where I think a few there were actually coronavirus patients.
"And I shook hands with everybody, you'll be pleased to know, and I continue to shake hands."
Mr Johnson later said he'd stopped shaking hands - but only after shaking hands with Phillip Schofield and Anthony Joshua.
Downing Street said the PM “wouldn’t have seen” that specific paper on March 3 and may never have seen it. The document was only a submission to SAGE from its own subcommittee, not a report from SAGE to the government - which are kept secret.
3. The virus was spreading much faster than the scientists thought
Image: NEIL HALL/EPA-EFE/REX) NEIL HALL/EPA-EFE/REX)
SAGE admitted in late March that the 'R' number - the number of people each Covid-19 carrier infects - was higher than they first thought.
They had previously estimated it at 2.4, but on March 20 admitted "we cannot rule out it being higher than 3."
That meant it was spreading far faster than the government or the scientists had thought.
Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Patrick Vallance has since said the R number was 3 in the early stages.
4. Scientists lent support to a London-only lockdown - but it didn't happen
Image: PA) PA)
The week of March 15 was gripped by rumours of a "London lockdown".
These rumours were angrily denied at the time by Downing Street, which (correctly) said travel in and out of the capital would not be stopped.
But actually we now know "lockdown" doesn't mean banning all transport. And the documents show the rumours were much closer to the truth than Downing Street would have us believe.
SAGE held a discussion on March 17-18 about what it called - in its own words - a "London lockdown."
The scientists agreed shutting schools, bars, restaurants, theatres and offices would have the greatest effect on transmitting the virus.
And they made clear it could be London-only. The summary of the debate said: "Concerns were raised over whether locking down London would cause people travel and seed the virus in other places.
"It was confirmed that seeding in this way should not be a concern as infections are already present outside London."
But Boris Johnson decided not to do this. Instead he announced on March 20 that people should stop going to pubs, restaurants and bars UK-wide. A UK-wide lockdown followed on March 23.
Similarly, SAGE evidence on April 1 shows experts suggested regional pilots of lifting the lockdown. But the government is not following this approach. Instead the lockdown will be eased UK-wide - but could be reimposed locally if there's a spike in one area.
5. Scientists made the government change 'confusing' stay-at-home guidance
Image: 10 Downing Street/AFP via Getty) 10 Downing Street/AFP via Getty)
Scientists hit out at the government's "confusing" stay-at-home guidance before it was tightened up to herald the UK-wide lockdown.
Original advice - now withdrawn - said people should work from home "where possible" and "avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible".
But on March 22, SAGE scientists agreed that was not clear enough to stop people putting themselves at risk.
They wrote: "Phrases such as ‘as much as is practicable’, ‘non-essential’, ‘significantly limit’, and ‘gathering’ are open to wide differences in interpretation.
"This can lead to confusion about exactly what people are being required to do (e.g. gathering outside or going for walks). Guidance now needs to be reformulated to be behaviourally specific."
They also said the guidance must be combined with "hard-hitting emotional messaging" showing people the "personal threat" to their health.
6. The experts warn the lockdown must only be lifted 'very gradually'
More recent guidance from April 1 shows scientists agree the lockdown cannot be lifted in a hurry.
They say this isn't just because of the health benefits - if there's a second peak, it will undermine the entire public's trust in government advice.
The paper was drawn up by the scientific pandemic influenza group on behaviour (SPI-B).
It says: "If there is then an increase in infection rates that necessitates a reintroduction of restrictions this is likely to be seen as a serious failure of policy and trust in public health advice will be lost, leading to lower adherence to advice to restrict or to resume activity.
"To avoid these problems we would advocate trialling easing restrictions very gradually when epidemiologically indicated.
"While clearly explaining why these particular activities are being resumed and how risks must be controlled if these activities are to be maintained."
7. Lockdown must not just ease for work - leisure is important too
In the same meeting on April 1, scientists urged the government to let people return to leisure activities - not just work.
"To maintain public trust and support it will be important to have acceptable and equitable criteria for selecting which activities can be resumed," they agreed.
"For example, it may be difficult to justify easing restrictions solely for economic activities without any easing of restrictions for low risk activities with significant social and psychological benefit."
8. 'Immunity passports' could be hijacked by rogue employers - and put staff at risk
Rogue bosses could give riskier jobs to people who have had Covid-19 - thinking they're immune when they're not, the advisors say.
In a paper on April 13, the scientific pandemic influenza group on behaviour (SPI-B) said employers might "actively discriminate" against workers who were not shown to have antibodies.
The experts also say any 'immunity passports' - which have not yet been proven to work - could be hijacked by people trying to "game the system".
It's not yet been proven if having antibodies makes you immune to getting Covid-19 twice. And there is not yet a reliable antibody test available.
The government's advice warns even a 2% fail rate could lead to dozens of people in every thousand going back to work, or isolating, with the wrong advice.
The note added: "Some employers may discriminate on the basis of antibody status.
"This might include not permitting those testing antibody negative to return to work or only taking on new staff with antibody positive test results.
"Work may also be allocated among employees based on test status with, for example, customer-facing work being allocated to those who have tested antibody positive.
"In some circumstances this may be appropriate, but in others this might constitute adverse discrimination. This risk applies across all occupational sectors."
The note also warned about the risk of people trying to "game" the system by attempting to purchase a fake test result one way or the other.
9. And finally... 'herd immunity' was discussed
Some of the behavioural scientists suggested publicising the concept of "herd immunity" - to explain why the UK was not imposing social distancing measures in early March.
This is highly controversial because government has insisted "herd immunity" was never its plan.
Instead, they've more described it as a fact of life - the only way to permanently protect the population is through 'herd immunity', either by a vaccine or lots of people getting sick and recovering.
But this isn't government policy (so they insist) because it would lead to hundreds of thousands of deaths.
A paper dated March 4, considered by Sage on March 5, said: "SPI-B (scientific pandemic influenza group on behaviours) have divergent opinions on the impact of not applying widescale social isolation at the same time as recommending isolation to at-risk groups.
"One view is that explaining that members of the community are building some immunity will make this acceptable.
"Another view is that recommending isolation to only one section of society risks causing discontent."
If you've found this article helpful, sign up for the Mirror's daily coronavirus briefing email, which will land in your inbox each evening after the government's press conference.


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Inside Laura Whitmore's Star Wars-themed birthday in lockdown with Iain Stirling

Laura Whitmore celebrated her 35th birthday in lockdown yesterday with a Star Wars-themed party .
The famous Love Island host , whose big day falls on Star Wars Day May 4 , toasted to another year older by celebrating by dressing up as Princess Leia .
The telly star admitted she had a `` great birthday '' with her fiancé Iain Stirling as she chatted to her family over Zoom , had virtual drinks on the balcony with friends , and of course a Star Wars movie marathon to top it all off .
Laura looked totally different as she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a purple hair wig with Princess Leia 's signature space buns .
She snuggled up on the sofa with her Maltipoo pooch Mick and posed in a dusky pink dress and a pair of bright yellow fluffy slippers .
Laura was gifted the comfy-looking shoes by her fiancé , who appeared to have totally spoiled her .
Alongside an Instagram snap , the radio presenter gushed : `` If Princess Leia had the option she 'd be wearing these slippers too .
May the fourth be with you !
Had such a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the family to balcony drinks with friends and then of course a watch a long Star Wars !
`` Thanks @ iaindoesjokes for organising , baking , your technological genius and for getting me these slippers !
‘ I love you , I know . '
# maythefourthbewithyou '' .
Her hunky fiancé , who is the voice of Love Island , cooked Laura a romantic dinner from the comfort of their north London home , where the pair are isolating together .
Iain made his partner a tasty pasta dish , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurant for birthday dinner ! ''
The voice over hunk dressed up in a funky half-open shirt for the special dinner , as Laura snapped a photo of him from across the table .
Laura caught up with her `` folks '' on a video call , and showed fans the yummy banana bread they had baked for her big day .
To end her fun-filled birthday , Laura and Ian settled down with their pals to watch Star Wars films together over Zoom .
The Irish host posted special birthday messages to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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Laura Whitmore celebrated her birthday on May 4 - so she dressed up as Princess Leia from Star Wars as she partied at home with fiancé Iain Stirling
Laura Whitmore celebrated her 35th birthday in lockdown yesterday with a Star Wars-themed party.
The famous Love Island host, whose big day falls on Star Wars Day May 4, toasted to another year older by celebrating by dressing up as Princess Leia.
The telly star admitted she had a "great birthday" with her fiancé Iain Stirling as she chatted to her family over Zoom, had virtual drinks on the balcony with friends, and of course a Star Wars movie marathon to top it all off.
Laura looked totally different as she morphed into the fictional character, wearing a purple hair wig with Princess Leia's signature space buns.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
She snuggled up on the sofa with her Maltipoo pooch Mick and posed in a dusky pink dress and a pair of bright yellow fluffy slippers.
Laura was gifted the comfy-looking shoes by her fiancé, who appeared to have totally spoiled her.
Alongside an Instagram snap, the radio presenter gushed: "If Princess Leia had the option she'd be wearing these slippers too. May the fourth be with you! Had such a great birthday yesterday.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
"From zoom lunches with the family to balcony drinks with friends and then of course a watch a long Star Wars!
"Thanks @iaindoesjokes for organising, baking, your technological genius and for getting me these slippers! ‘I love you, I know.' #maythefourthbewithyou".
Her hunky fiancé, who is the voice of Love Island, cooked Laura a romantic dinner from the comfort of their north London home, where the pair are isolating together.
Image: Instagram) Instagram) Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Iain made his partner a tasty pasta dish, which she joked: "Fancy new restaurant for birthday dinner!"
The voice over hunk dressed up in a funky half-open shirt for the special dinner, as Laura snapped a photo of him from across the table.
Laura caught up with her "folks" on a video call, and showed fans the yummy banana bread they had baked for her big day.
To end her fun-filled birthday, Laura and Ian settled down with their pals to watch Star Wars films together over Zoom.
The Irish host posted special birthday messages to her Instagram Story to round it off.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Scientists warned against handshakes on day Boris Johnson boasted he shook hands

Government advisors warned people should stop shaking hands to slow the spread of coronavirus - on the same day Boris Johnson boasted he ’ d been shaking hands with “ everybody ” at a hospital .
The Independent Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Behaviours ( SPI-B ) , a subcommittee of the SAGE scientific advisory committee , issued its advice on March 3 .
It said : `` There was agreement that Government should advise against greetings such as shaking hands and hugging , given existing evidence about the importance of hand hygiene .
`` Promoting a replacement greeting or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand-shake may have benefit . ''
But on the same day , Boris Johnson said he had not stopped shaking hands .
He told the No10 press conference : `` I was at a hospital the other night where I think a few there were actually coronavirus patients .
`` And I shook hands with everybody , you 'll be pleased to know , and I continue to shake hands . ''
Mr Johnson later said he 'd stopped shaking hands .
It 's not clear he had seen the scientific advice before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The document was a submission to SAGE from its own subcommittee , not a report from SAGE to the government .
The SPI-B committee advises SAGE on how people ’ s behaviour is likely to affect the spread of the disease .
The day before , the SPI-M subcommittee - which tries to model how the disease spreads through the population - warned as many as 500,000 people could die from coronavirus .
The team made the stark warning to the Sage advisory committee two weeks before Professor Neil Ferguson of Imperial College @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Noting the virus was highly contagious , the team said if `` stringent measures '' were not imposed , 80 % of the population could become infected and between 250,000 and 500,000 could die .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Mikey Smith, Dan Bloom)

Boris Johnson says he has been shaking hands with patients with coronavirus
Boris Johnson says he has been shaking hands with patients with coronavirus
The Prime Minister proudly announced he was "still shaking hands" - and shook the hands of "everybody" during a hospital visit
Government advisors warned people should stop shaking hands to slow the spread of coronavirus - on the same day Boris Johnson boasted he’d been shaking hands with “everybody” at a hospital.
The Independent Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Behaviours (SPI-B), a subcommittee of the SAGE scientific advisory committee, issued its advice on March 3.
It said: "There was agreement that Government should advise against greetings such as shaking hands and hugging, given existing evidence about the importance of hand hygiene.
"Promoting a replacement greeting or encouraging others to politely decline a proffered hand-shake may have benefit."
But on the same day, Boris Johnson said he had not stopped shaking hands.
He told the No10 press conference: "I was at a hospital the other night where I think a few there were actually coronavirus patients.
"And I shook hands with everybody, you'll be pleased to know, and I continue to shake hands."
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Mr Johnson later said he'd stopped shaking hands. It's not clear he had seen the scientific advice before making his comments on March 3.
The document was a submission to SAGE from its own subcommittee, not a report from SAGE to the government.
The SPI-B committee advises SAGE on how people’s behaviour is likely to affect the spread of the disease.
The day before, the SPI-M subcommittee - which tries to model how the disease spreads through the population - warned as many as 500,000 people could die from coronavirus.
The team made the stark warning to the Sage advisory committee two weeks before Professor Neil Ferguson of Imperial College shocked the country with the same figure.
Noting the virus was highly contagious, the team said if "stringent measures" were not imposed, 80% of the population could become infected and between 250,000 and 500,000 could die.


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Cyntoia Brown's chilling slip to neighbour after she murdered pastor aged 16

Cyntoia Brown was sentenced to life in prison for murder aged just 16 - but questions about her past , physiology and the called her guilt into question .
The American was convicted of the murder of 42-year-old pastor Johnny Allen , who she shot in the back of the head with her .40-caliber handgun on August 6 , 2004 after being picked up for sex .
But the case drew international attention - with celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Rihanna joining a campaign against what many saw as her wrongful imprisonment .
They demanded leniency to be dealt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the trauma she experienced having been the victim of sex trafficking after a life of hardship .
After 15 years behind bars , Cyntoia was finally released last year when Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam granted clemency to Brown and commuted her life sentence to the time she had already served .
However , before Cyntoia 's sentence was changed and she was released , Haslam received one letter detailing a chilling slip she made after killing the pastor .
The lead detective in the case , Charles Robinson , urged Haslam not to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter in 2017 .
Robinson insisted that Cyntoia was `` not justified '' in killing Allen - a Sunday school teacher and youth minister who had taken her back to his home for sex .
She said that she feared for her life while alone with him in his bed and used a gun she carried in her purse to shoot him in the back of the head .
But Detective Robinson 's letter included testimony from witnesses , including a neighbour who heard a worrying confession .
Richard Reed told police that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Walmart , where she had left Allen 's truck the night before .
Mr. Reed then said he was asked by Cyntoia to drive back to Allen ’ s house so `` she could get more items '' , but was given a stern warning when he refused .
`` Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia said I shot somebody in the head last night and blew his brains out , '' wrote Robinson in his letter .
`` Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia said it was a fat lick ( robbery ) .
Mr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 50,000 , some guns and his truck . ''
After telling his roommate , Samuel Humphrey , about what he discovered , Samuel then reportedly went to Cyntoia 's room to ask her about the incident .
Mr. Reed then claimed that Cyntoia rang to warn him to stop talking about their conversation or there would be consequences in a serious threat .
In the letter , detective Robinson continues : `` Mr. Reed stated Mr. Humphrey went to Cyntoia 's room and asked her about it .
`` Mr. Reed stated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop running your mouth about my business or I 'll get you too .
`` Mr. Reed stated he 'd seen Cyntoia with a .40-caliber , High Point , Semi Auto handgun several days earlier .
`` Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia was playing with the gun and put it to his head . ''
Detective Robinson claimed this report of the events was backed up by Mr. Humphrey 's , who went to speak to Cyntoia after finding out what happened from Mr. Reed .
The detective wrote : `` Mr. Humphrey stated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blew a man 's brains out and took his truck .
`` Mr. Humphrey stated he later spoke with Cyntoia and she told him the same story .
Mr. Humphrey stated they did n't believe her until the saw the 10:00 PM news .
`` Mr. Humphrey stated they discussed calling the police but feared retaliation by Cyntoia and her boyfriend .
`` Mr. Humphrey stated they decided to leave the hotel and call the police . ''
While Robinson admitted that he did consider that Cyntoia was justified in killing Allen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his opinion was `` not justified '' .
`` At the beginning of this investigation , I considered the possibility that Cyntoia Brown was justified in killing Johnny Allen , '' wrote Robinson .
`` At the conclusion of this investigation my findings were that she was not justified in killing Mr. Allen and her only motivation for the murder was robbery . ''
Despite the detectives claims in the seven-page document , governor Haslam came to the decision to free Cyntoia `` after careful consideration of what is a tragic and complex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treated as an adult by the criminal justice system despite being 16 when she committed her crime and the sentence was too harsh .
Cyntoia 's defence team argued that due to her traumatic background of sex trafficking and living with foetal alcohol syndrome , in addition to being just 16-years-old , meant she should not have been judged as harshly as she was .
After being granted clemency , Cyntoia said : `` I am thankful for all the support , prayers , and encouragement I have received .
We truly serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginnings .
`` The Lord has held my hand this whole time and I would have never made it without Him .
Let today be a testament to His Saving Grace .
`` Thank you to my family for being a backbone these past 14 years .
`` I am thankful to my lawyers and their staffs , and all the others who , for the last decade have freely given of their time and expertise to help me get to this day .
`` I love all of you and will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s help , I am committed to live the rest of my life helping others , especially young people .
`` My hope is to help other young girls avoid ending up where I have been .
When Cyntoia was granted clemency , Allen 's family were unhappy with her getting her freedom .
They said in a statement : `` We are at a loss for words .
We feel like the judicial system has failed again for victims everywhere .
`` This world is all about power and money and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fairness for those that work hard and try to help others .
We are very saddened about this event .
`` Our hearts are broken because we feel like Johnny never got to defend himself .
We never got to be a voice for him .
Please keep us in your prayers . ''
After being released in August 2019 , Cyntoia has gone on to discuss her experiences across various forms of media .
In October last year , Cyntoia released a memoir about her 15 years in incarceration , entitled Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The American Prison System .
As part of the promotion for the book 's release , she appeared on a number of high-profile shows including CBS News and The Breakfast Club in the US .
Cyntoia has also become a prolific social media user , posting regular updates on her life with musician husband Jamie Long and beauty looks , alongside her media appearances .
Cyntoia revealed her feelings towards the new Netflix documentary film Murder To Mercy : The Cyntoia Brown Story .
Alongside a photo of the Netflix logo , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incarcerated , a producer who has old footage of me made a deal with Netflix for an UNAUTHORIZED documentary , set to be released soon .
`` My husband and I were as surprised as everyone else when we first heard the news because we did not participate in any way .
`` However , I am currently in the process of sharing my story , in the right way , in full detail , and in a way that depicts and respects the woman I am today .
`` While I pray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our justice system , I had nothing to do with this documentary . ''
*Murder to Mercy : The Cyntoia Brown Story is available to watch on Netflix

Inside the injustice of Cyntoia Brown case as Netflix looks at case that Kim K championed
Inside the injustice of Cyntoia Brown case as Netflix looks at case that Kim K championed
As Netflix series Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story is released, an unearthed letter from the case's lead detective divulges a worrying confession made to her neighbour
Cyntoia Brown was sentenced to life in prison for murder aged just 16 - but questions about her past, physiology and the called her guilt into question.
The American was convicted of the murder of 42-year-old pastor Johnny Allen, who she shot in the back of the head with her .40-caliber handgun on August 6, 2004 after being picked up for sex.
But the case drew international attention - with celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Rihanna joining a campaign against what many saw as her wrongful imprisonment.
They demanded leniency to be dealt to Cyntoia due to her age and the trauma she experienced having been the victim of sex trafficking after a life of hardship.
After 15 years behind bars, Cyntoia was finally released last year when Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam granted clemency to Brown and commuted her life sentence to the time she had already served.
However, before Cyntoia's sentence was changed and she was released, Haslam received one letter detailing a chilling slip she made after killing the pastor.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
The lead detective in the case, Charles Robinson, urged Haslam not to grant clemency to Cyntoia in a seven-page letter in 2017.
Robinson insisted that Cyntoia was "not justified" in killing Allen - a Sunday school teacher and youth minister who had taken her back to his home for sex.
She said that she feared for her life while alone with him in his bed and used a gun she carried in her purse to shoot him in the back of the head.
But Detective Robinson's letter included testimony from witnesses, including a neighbour who heard a worrying confession.
Image: ABC NEWS) ABC NEWS)
Richard Reed told police that Cyntoia had asked him for a ride to Walmart, where she had left Allen's truck the night before.
Mr. Reed then said he was asked by Cyntoia to drive back to Allen’s house so "she could get more items", but was given a stern warning when he refused.
"Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia said I shot somebody in the head last night and blew his brains out," wrote Robinson in his letter.
"Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia said it was a fat lick (robbery). Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia also said she took $50,000, some guns and his truck."
After telling his roommate, Samuel Humphrey, about what he discovered, Samuel then reportedly went to Cyntoia's room to ask her about the incident.
Mr. Reed then claimed that Cyntoia rang to warn him to stop talking about their conversation or there would be consequences in a serious threat.
In the letter, detective Robinson continues: "Mr. Reed stated Mr. Humphrey went to Cyntoia's room and asked her about it.
"Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia called him and said you better stop running your mouth about my business or I'll get you too.
"Mr. Reed stated he'd seen Cyntoia with a .40-caliber, High Point, Semi Auto handgun several days earlier.
"Mr. Reed stated Cyntoia was playing with the gun and put it to his head."
Image: SIPA USA/PA Images) SIPA USA/PA Images)
Detective Robinson claimed this report of the events was backed up by Mr. Humphrey's, who went to speak to Cyntoia after finding out what happened from Mr. Reed.
The detective wrote: "Mr. Humphrey stated Mr. Reed said Cyntoia told him she blew a man's brains out and took his truck.
"Mr. Humphrey stated he later spoke with Cyntoia and she told him the same story.
Mr. Humphrey stated they didn't believe her until the saw the 10:00 PM news.
"Mr. Humphrey stated they discussed calling the police but feared retaliation by Cyntoia and her boyfriend.
"Mr. Humphrey stated they decided to leave the hotel and call the police."
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
While Robinson admitted that he did consider that Cyntoia was justified in killing Allen, he ultimately concluded that the murder in his opinion was "not justified".
"At the beginning of this investigation, I considered the possibility that Cyntoia Brown was justified in killing Johnny Allen," wrote Robinson.
"At the conclusion of this investigation my findings were that she was not justified in killing Mr. Allen and her only motivation for the murder was robbery."
Despite the detectives claims in the seven-page document, governor Haslam came to the decision to free Cyntoia "after careful consideration of what is a tragic and complex case".
He believed she was treated as an adult by the criminal justice system despite being 16 when she committed her crime and the sentence was too harsh.
Cyntoia's defence team argued that due to her traumatic background of sex trafficking and living with foetal alcohol syndrome, in addition to being just 16-years-old, meant she should not have been judged as harshly as she was.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
After being granted clemency, Cyntoia said: "I am thankful for all the support, prayers, and encouragement I have received. We truly serve a God of second chances and new beginnings.
"The Lord has held my hand this whole time and I would have never made it without Him. Let today be a testament to His Saving Grace.
"Thank you to my family for being a backbone these past 14 years."I am thankful to my lawyers and their staffs, and all the others who, for the last decade have freely given of their time and expertise to help me get to this day.
"I love all of you and will be forever grateful."With God’s help, I am committed to live the rest of my life helping others, especially young people.
"My hope is to help other young girls avoid ending up where I have been.
"Thank you."
When Cyntoia was granted clemency, Allen's family were unhappy with her getting her freedom.
They said in a statement: "We are at a loss for words. We feel like the judicial system has failed again for victims everywhere.
"This world is all about power and money and not what is important such as honesty and fairness for those that work hard and try to help others. We are very saddened about this event.
"Our hearts are broken because we feel like Johnny never got to defend himself. We never got to be a voice for him. Please keep us in your prayers."
After being released in August 2019, Cyntoia has gone on to discuss her experiences across various forms of media.
In October last year, Cyntoia released a memoir about her 15 years in incarceration, entitled Free Cyntoia: My Search For Redemption In The American Prison System.
As part of the promotion for the book's release, she appeared on a number of high-profile shows including CBS News and The Breakfast Club in the US.
Cyntoia has also become a prolific social media user, posting regular updates on her life with musician husband Jamie Long and beauty looks, alongside her media appearances.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Cyntoia revealed her feelings towards the new Netflix documentary film Murder To Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story .
Alongside a photo of the Netflix logo, she wrote: "While I was still incarcerated, a producer who has old footage of me made a deal with Netflix for an UNAUTHORIZED documentary, set to be released soon.
"My husband and I were as surprised as everyone else when we first heard the news because we did not participate in any way.
"However, I am currently in the process of sharing my story, in the right way, in full detail, and in a way that depicts and respects the woman I am today.
"While I pray that this film highlights things wrong in our justice system, I had nothing to do with this documentary."
*Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown Story is available to watch on Netflix


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Normal People fans going wild over 'favourite character' - but it's not a person

If you 've been on social media in the last few days , you might have seen a great number of posts about Normal People .
The BBC adaptation of Sally Rooney 's popular novel hit TV screens at the end of April and it seems people have been able to talk of nothing else since then .
Set in Ireland , the show stars Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones and tells the story of the relationship between Marianne and Connell , covering their high school and university days .
And while with any programme , there 's always a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Normal People there 's an inanimate object that thousands just ca n't stop obsessing over .
Fans of the show are completely in love with Connell 's silver neck chain .
Yes , his simple piece of jewellery has been the subject of many a Tweet - and it 's even inspired an Instagram account .
Called @ connellschain , the account has acquired more than 26,000 followers in just a few days .
The account was created by Billie Bhatia , who explained in an article for Stylist that her motivation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could n't stop thinking about Connell and his chain '' .
In the book , the chain is described by someone as being `` Argos chic '' , however people do n't seem to be put off by that phrase at all and are instead lusting over the item .
One person tweeted : `` Normal People is SO f**king good and the crush I have on Connell and his silver chain necklace ?
?
?
I cant handle this . ''
Another said : `` My favourite character on Normal People , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I don ’ t think I ’ ve ever felt love for a character like I have for Connell from Normal People like omfg that chain he wears . ''
Someone else posted : `` To everyone watching # NormalPeople –on a scale of 1-10 how badly do you want to be the chain around Paul Mescal 's neck ?
I 'm 11 . ''
And even Mescal , who plays Connell understands just how important the chain is .
In a recent interview with The Cut , he said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Connell ’ s identity .
If another character wore one , it would be totally jarring .
With Connell , it fits like a glove or something . ''
The actor added that he gifted the chain to his co-star Daisy at the end of filming , but she has since lost it .
There will definitely be outrage about that !

The BBC's adaptation of Sally Rooney's novel has captured the hearts of thousands of viewers and Connell Waldron's chain has also captured the hearts of most of them
Normal People fans can't stop lusting over 'favourite character' - but it's not a person
If you've been on social media in the last few days, you might have seen a great number of posts about Normal People.
The BBC adaptation of Sally Rooney's popular novel hit TV screens at the end of April and it seems people have been able to talk of nothing else since then.
Set in Ireland, the show stars Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones and tells the story of the relationship between Marianne and Connell, covering their high school and university days.
And while with any programme, there's always a character that viewers love the most, with Normal People there's an inanimate object that thousands just can't stop obsessing over.
Fans of the show are completely in love with Connell's silver neck chain.
Yes, his simple piece of jewellery has been the subject of many a Tweet - and it's even inspired an Instagram account.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Called @connellschain, the account has acquired more than 26,000 followers in just a few days.
The account was created by Billie Bhatia, who explained in an article for Stylist that her motivation for making it was that she "couldn't stop thinking about Connell and his chain".
In the book, the chain is described by someone as being "Argos chic", however people don't seem to be put off by that phrase at all and are instead lusting over the item.
One person tweeted: "Normal People is SO f**king good and the crush I have on Connell and his silver chain necklace??? I cant handle this."
Another said: "My favourite character on Normal People, the chain."
A third wrote: "I don’t think I’ve ever felt love for a character like I have for Connell from Normal People like omfg that chain he wears."
Someone else posted: "To everyone watching #NormalPeople –on a scale of 1-10 how badly do you want to be the chain around Paul Mescal's neck? I'm 11."
And even Mescal, who plays Connell understands just how important the chain is.
In a recent interview with The Cut, he said: "It’s absolutely part of Connell’s identity. If another character wore one, it would be totally jarring. With Connell, it fits like a glove or something."
The actor added that he gifted the chain to his co-star Daisy at the end of filming, but she has since lost it.
There will definitely be outrage about that!


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Wizz Air announces new summer flights to Portugal and Greece starting in June

Low cost airline Wizz Air has announced new routes from London Luton airport to holiday destinations in Portugal and Greece .
They are planning for the easing of travel restrictions by starting new routes in Portugal from 16 June and to Greece from July .
European flights have all but come to a standstill during the coronavirus pandemic with government restrictions meaning that only a few services are operating for essential travel such as people going to work or being repatriated , or for cargo .
Wizz Air said that the new rules it had introduced , such as compulsory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should give customers confidence to fly .
It is not yet clear whether traditional summer holiday destinations will be open for business this year .
Flights will depart for Faro , Portugal from 16 June , Wizz said , and for Zakynthos , Heraklion , Corfu and Rhodes in Greece at the beginning of July .
Wizz became one of the first European airlines to restart commercial routes from London Luton and Vienna on May 1 , carrying people from Bulgaria and Romania amongst other places , which the airline said was for @ @

The low coast airline said that it was announcing the new routes from London Luton Airport as part of its planning for the easing of restrictions
Wizz Air announces new summer flights to Portugal and Greece starting in June
Low cost airline Wizz Air has announced new routes from London Luton airport to holiday destinations in Portugal and Greece.
They are planning for the easing of travel restrictions by starting new routes in Portugal from 16 June and to Greece from July.
European flights have all but come to a standstill during the coronavirus pandemic with government restrictions meaning that only a few services are operating for essential travel such as people going to work or being repatriated, or for cargo.
Image: Daily Record) Daily Record)
Wizz Air said that the new rules it had introduced, such as compulsory face masks for passengers and staff, should give customers confidence to fly.
It is not yet clear whether traditional summer holiday destinations will be open for business this year.
Flights will depart for Faro, Portugal from 16 June, Wizz said, and for Zakynthos, Heraklion, Corfu and Rhodes in Greece at the beginning of July.
Wizz became one of the first European airlines to restart commercial routes from London Luton and Vienna on May 1, carrying people from Bulgaria and Romania amongst other places, which the airline said was for work.


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--'My husband raped me just hours after I gave birth to our baby'

For eight years Natasha lived in constant terror from the man she should have been able to trust more than anyone in the world - her own husband .
She was just 17 when she met the man who would `` break her a little more every day '' - both mentally and physically .
At one point the abuse was so sickening Natasha was raped by her own husband just hours after giving birth to their second child .
She is one of the brave women who have inspired OK !
to team up with the domestic violence charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Closet Clear Out to help those vulnerable during the coronavirus lockdown .
Natasha explains how she was first trapped by her abusive husband .
She said : `` It seemed like he really had his life together but in truth , he was a controlling monster .
For eight years , I lived with a campaign of abuse and with every abusive act ; I was broken a little bit more .
“ Under the guise of love , he made manipulation and isolation seem like normal behaviour . ''
Natasha was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be the only one to support her .
He told his terrified wife it was because he ‘ loved me so much , I didn ’ t need to spend time with anyone else ' .
One night she was even made to feel guilty for him taking an overdose .
The 31-year-old said : `` I was at a party when he called and told me he ’ d taken an overdose .
Apparently , it was my fault because I wasn ’ t at home with him . ''
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjected to mental torture , which destroyed her confidence and made her think she was unable to leave her abusive partner .
She explained : `` I walked on eggshells and changed my behaviour to appease his anger .
`` It took me a long time to realise that my husband was degrading , hurting and manipulating me as a form of control and abuse .
`` He would rape me and the next morning , he would act like what he ’ d done was completely normal .
`` When my children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in .
I wanted to leave but I didn ’ t know how to do it safely – my husband had threatened to kill the kids if I tried . ''
Summoning all her bravery after eight years of constant abuse , Natasha called the Refuge ’ s National Domestic Abuse Helpline for support in January , 2015 .
She said : `` The woman I spoke with validated my concerns – she reminded me that I wasn ’ t alone , and I could leave if I wanted to .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sexual and psychological abuse to the police and with Refuge ’ s support , I ’ ve rebuilt my life . ''
Natasha 's ex-husband was jailed for the abuse he carried out and she says she 's now found a `` safe haven '' with her new husband , Ben , and had another `` beautiful baby '' .
The courageous mum now wants to use her own horrific experiences to help other women who are struggling with domestic violence during lockdown .
Natasha explained : `` With my ex , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
Right now , thousands of women are experiencing the same thing every day as they self-isolate with abusers .
`` I hope this campaign will reassure women that alongside Refuge , I stand with them .
Domestic abuse is a crime , and it ’ s never your fault .
My abuser thought he could take everything from me , but I ’ m a survivor .
`` By donating to this campaign , you can help Refuge to run its life-saving services , and support women and children during this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s lives , but it also saves them . ''
Heartbreaking statistics show that since lockdown came into force some domestic abuse organisations have seen a 50 percent rise in appeals for help by phone and online .
The UK 's largest domestic violence charity Refuge saw a rise of 700 percent in calls for help in just one day .
The OK !
Closet Clear Out has enlisted the help of some of the UK 's biggest celebrities , from Helen Mirren to Kym Marsh , to clear out their closets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To bid on your favourite celebrity 's item of clothing to raise money for Refuge , supporting victims of domestic abuse , head over to OK !
eBay shop NOW !
And if you would like to take part in OK !
Closet Clear Out Campaign yourself , just # CREATE space in your wardrobe , # DONATE £5 to Refuge and # NOMINATE friends to do the closet clear-out .
• Texts cost £5 plus one standard rate message and you ’ ll be opting in to hear more about our work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you ’ d like to give £5 but do not wish to receive marketing communications , text OK4REFUGENOINFO 5 to 70480 .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Rivkie Baum, Jane Lavender)

Natasha suffered eight years of mental, physical and sexual assaults at the hands of her husband, now she is doing all she can to help other women trapped in lockdown with a domestic abuser
'My husband raped me just hours after I gave birth to our baby - he broke me every day'
For eight years Natasha lived in constant terror from the man she should have been able to trust more than anyone in the world - her own husband.
She was just 17 when she met the man who would "break her a little more every day" - both mentally and physically.
At one point the abuse was so sickening Natasha was raped by her own husband just hours after giving birth to their second child.
She is one of the brave women who have inspired OK! to team up with the domestic violence charity, Refuge, to launch the OK! Closet Clear Out to help those vulnerable during the coronavirus lockdown.
Natasha explains how she was first trapped by her abusive husband.
She said: "It seemed like he really had his life together but in truth, he was a controlling monster. For eight years, I lived with a campaign of abuse and with every abusive act; I was broken a little bit more.
Image: Julian Nieman) Julian Nieman)
“Under the guise of love, he made manipulation and isolation seem like normal behaviour."
Natasha was banned from working because her husband wanted to be the only one to support her.
He told his terrified wife it was because he ‘loved me so much, I didn’t need to spend time with anyone else'.
One night she was even made to feel guilty for him taking an overdose.
The 31-year-old said: "I was at a party when he called and told me he’d taken an overdose. Apparently, it was my fault because I wasn’t at home with him."
As well as violence, Natasha was also subjected to mental torture, which destroyed her confidence and made her think she was unable to leave her abusive partner.
She explained: "I walked on eggshells and changed my behaviour to appease his anger.
"It took me a long time to realise that my husband was degrading, hurting and manipulating me as a form of control and abuse.
"He would rape me and the next morning, he would act like what he’d done was completely normal.
"When my children were born, my survival instinct kicked in. I wanted to leave but I didn’t know how to do it safely – my husband had threatened to kill the kids if I tried."
Image: Getty Images for L'OrÃ©al Paris) Getty Images for L'OrÃ©al Paris)
Summoning all her bravery after eight years of constant abuse, Natasha called the Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline for support in January, 2015.
She said: "The woman I spoke with validated my concerns – she reminded me that I wasn’t alone, and I could leave if I wanted to.
"I reported my husband’s physical, sexual and psychological abuse to the police and with Refuge’s support, I’ve rebuilt my life."
Natasha's ex-husband was jailed for the abuse he carried out and she says she's now found a "safe haven" with her new husband, Ben, and had another "beautiful baby".
The courageous mum now wants to use her own horrific experiences to help other women who are struggling with domestic violence during lockdown.
Natasha explained: "With my ex, I lived a life of lockdown without realising it. Right now, thousands of women are experiencing the same thing every day as they self-isolate with abusers.
"I hope this campaign will reassure women that alongside Refuge, I stand with them. Domestic abuse is a crime, and it’s never your fault. My abuser thought he could take everything from me, but I’m a survivor.
"By donating to this campaign, you can help Refuge to run its life-saving services, and support women and children during this crisis. Refuge not only changes people’s lives, but it also saves them."
Heartbreaking statistics show that since lockdown came into force some domestic abuse organisations have seen a 50 percent rise in appeals for help by phone and online.
The UK's largest domestic violence charity Refuge saw a rise of 700 percent in calls for help in just one day.
The OK! Closet Clear Out has enlisted the help of some of the UK's biggest celebrities, from Helen Mirren to Kym Marsh, to clear out their closets and donate the items for auction.
To bid on your favourite celebrity's item of clothing to raise money for Refuge, supporting victims of domestic abuse, head over to OK! eBay shop NOW!
And if you would like to take part in OK! Closet Clear Out Campaign yourself, just #CREATE space in your wardrobe, #DONATE £5 to Refuge and #NOMINATE friends to do the closet clear-out.
Text OK4REFUGE 5 to 70480 to donate £5


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--People are purposely wetting themselves and filming it for gross viral challenge

Social media users are standing in front of a mirror and wetting themselves while capturing it all on camera as part of a 'pee your pants challenge ' and we 're just about done with 2020 .
The first video appeared on TikTok when Liam Weyer filmed himself saying 'pee your pants challenge ' before appearing to wet himself , as a grey patch appears on his shorts and there 's a disturbing sound of liquid hitting the floor .
Liam said he was surprised the trend has caught on , as others on the video sharing platform post clips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It means there is now a string of videos showing people ( mainly men ) saying 'pee your pants challenge ' in front of the mirror and , you guessed it , peeing their pants .
The original clip was removed by TikTok , but Liam 's reposted version has had just under 300,000 views , with others blaming the coronavirus lockdown for causing social media content to truly hit rock bottom .
One commented : `` People seriously need to get back to work soon .
Everyone has gone insane .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to believe this video exists . ''
Liam , who posts under the handle @ Liamw2 , said he started it as a parody , but a simple search of the catchy hashtag shows streams of videos ( sorry ) reenacting the clip .
One shows a man in jeans wetting himself before filming the puddle he proudly created on the floor , and another shows two friends attempting it stood side-by-side , which somehow makes it worse .
Liam , a 19-year-old from Kansas who hopes to become a TV writer one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a joke .
`` I am definitely surprised that the challenge actually became a trend , '' he told Insider .
`` I created the challenge as a parody of the other challenges that have gone viral on the internet in an attempt to show how pointless they are .
`` I am surprised to see that people on the internet will pee themselves if you call it a challenge and add a hashtag . ''
We wish we could say we 're surprised too ...

People film themselves peeing their pants in new challenge
People film themselves peeing their pants in new challenge
TikTok users are taking part in a 'pee your pants challenge' where they stand in front of a mirror and wet themselves, after one man said he began the trend as a 'parody'
People are purposely wetting themselves and filming it for gross viral challenge
Social media users are standing in front of a mirror and wetting themselves while capturing it all on camera as part of a 'pee your pants challenge' and we're just about done with 2020.
The first video appeared on TikTok when Liam Weyer filmed himself saying 'pee your pants challenge' before appearing to wet himself, as a grey patch appears on his shorts and there's a disturbing sound of liquid hitting the floor.
Liam said he was surprised the trend has caught on, as others on the video sharing platform post clips using the hashtag showing their own efforts.
It means there is now a string of videos showing people (mainly men) saying 'pee your pants challenge' in front of the mirror and, you guessed it, peeing their pants.
Image: TikTok) TikTok)
The original clip was removed by TikTok, but Liam's reposted version has had just under 300,000 views, with others blaming the coronavirus lockdown for causing social media content to truly hit rock bottom.
One commented: "People seriously need to get back to work soon. Everyone has gone insane."
Another wrote: "I refuse to believe this video exists."
Image: TikTok) TikTok)
Liam, who posts under the handle @Liamw2, said he started it as a parody, but a simple search of the catchy hashtag shows streams of videos (sorry) reenacting the clip.
One shows a man in jeans wetting himself before filming the puddle he proudly created on the floor, and another shows two friends attempting it stood side-by-side, which somehow makes it worse.
Liam, a 19-year-old from Kansas who hopes to become a TV writer one day, said he started the challenge as a joke.
"I am definitely surprised that the challenge actually became a trend," he told Insider.
"I created the challenge as a parody of the other challenges that have gone viral on the internet in an attempt to show how pointless they are.
"I am surprised to see that people on the internet will pee themselves if you call it a challenge and add a hashtag."
We wish we could say we're surprised too...


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Sarah Parish slammed for breaking lockdown rules during This Morning interview

Actress Sarah Parish infuriated This Morning viewers when she revealed she had broken coronavirus lockdown rules during her live interview .
As she chatted to Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby via a video call , Phil pointed out : `` It 's nice to see you 've made your bed ! ''
Sarah replied : `` Do you know what , I 'm in my neighbour 's house , because the internet is down next door .
`` So I 've come to my neighbour 's to do Skype . ''
Phil looked shocked as he raised his eyebrows and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on by it 's fingernails even in the spare bedroom '' , while Holly laughed awkwardly .
Sarah went on to talk about starring in her new Renaissance drama Medicid : The Magificent , but viewers were mostly distracted by her admission that she was breaking lockdown rules by being in someone else 's house .
One tweeted : `` Emmmm @ thismorning is Sarah Parish in her neighbours house for the interview ?
Not quite following the rules then '' .
Another raged : `` We can ’ t visit our family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go round her neighbours house to use her internet ?
! ''
`` Did Sarah Parish just say on # ThisMorning that she ’ s in her neighbours house cus the WiFi died in hers ?
?
?
WHILE SHE ’ S IN LOCKDOWN '' questioned another .
But Sarah herself took to Twitter to defend herself , claiming it was not a part of her neighbour 's house that they actually live in .
She replied to one angry tweet saying : `` It ’ s their Annex .
They don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s lockdown safe '' .
She then tweeted : `` I seem to have caused a twitter uproar !
`` I was in my Neighbours Annex doing the This Morning interview , not their house .
`` They don ’ t live in it !
!
It ’ s all lockdown safe .
It ’ s great that you ’ re all taking lockdown seriously though .
# staysafe `` .
* This Morning airs on weekdays at 10am on ITV

Sarah Parish uses her neighbours WiFi during lockdown
Sarah Parish uses her neighbours WiFi during lockdown
The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel
Actress Sarah Parish caused an uproar when she admitted she was doing her Skype interview in her neighbour's house, but defended herself on Twitter afterwards
Sarah Parish slammed for breaking lockdown rules during This Morning interview
Actress Sarah Parish infuriated This Morning viewers when she revealed she had broken coronavirus lockdown rules during her live interview.
As she chatted to Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby via a video call, Phil pointed out: "It's nice to see you've made your bed!"
Sarah replied: "Do you know what, I'm in my neighbour's house, because the internet is down next door.
"So I've come to my neighbour's to do Skype."
Image: ITV) ITV)
Phil looked shocked as he raised his eyebrows and said the internet connection was "hanging on by it's fingernails even in the spare bedroom", while Holly laughed awkwardly.
Stay in... and meet someone new! Join Britain Connects Our readers up and down the country are overcoming isolation by connecting with people they wouldn't usually meet for an online chat. Do you want to join them? I'm interested - tell me more!
Sarah went on to talk about starring in her new Renaissance drama Medicid: The Magificent, but viewers were mostly distracted by her admission that she was breaking lockdown rules by being in someone else's house.
One tweeted: "Emmmm @thismorning is Sarah Parish in her neighbours house for the interview? Not quite following the rules then".
Another raged: "We can’t visit our family in their homes but Sarah Parish can go round her neighbours house to use her internet?!"
"Did Sarah Parish just say on #ThisMorning that she’s in her neighbours house cus the WiFi died in hers??? WHILE SHE’S IN LOCKDOWN" questioned another.
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But Sarah herself took to Twitter to defend herself, claiming it was not a part of her neighbour's house that they actually live in.
She replied to one angry tweet saying: "It’s their Annex. They don’t live in it. It’s lockdown safe".
She then tweeted: "I seem to have caused a twitter uproar!
"I was in my Neighbours Annex doing the This Morning interview, not their house.
"They don’t live in it!! It’s all lockdown safe. It’s great that you’re all taking lockdown seriously though. #staysafe ".
* This Morning airs on weekdays at 10am on ITV


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--My husband thought I was mad when I told him my plan when wedding was cancelled

Jennifer Wheeler and Steven Derosa have spent the past three years planning their dream wedding .
Countless hours went into finding the perfect venue , working out the guestlist and deciding on the dress and suits .
But like hundreds of other couples the pair , who have been together seven years , have now been forced to cancel their wedding due to the coronavirus pandemic .
But instead of just letting what should have been their wedding day pass quietly , they decided to make sure it was still a day to remember .
Jennifer , 36 , from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When I first came up with the idea my husband thought I had gone mad .
`` We were absolutely devastated , it 's something we 've been planning for three years .
We 've put so much time and effort in to it .
We were both gutted .
`` But the more I thought about it and the closer the actual date got , we thought what are we going to do , it 's going to be so sad .
`` I thought , you know what , I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it into something positive .
We 're going to do a full blown wedding . ''
So they started planning , and when their big day finally arrived they certainly had a celebration to remember .
Steven , Jennifer and her son Tyler , 14 , decorated their home with fairy lights , made button holes and a bouquet and created a three-tier 'cake ' out of polystyrene .
On the morning , the bride started by doing her hair and make up and putting on a stunning white dress .
She decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rescheduled day , so instead opted for a white summer dress .
She then walked down an aisle lined with flowers to meet her future husband .
Tyler played the role of vicar , witness and guests as they couple said their vows and shared their first kiss .
They then went out to the communal garden to take their wedding photos , and some of their neighbours came out to clap and raise a glass .
Jennifer even got to throw her bouquet , although nobody tried to catch it through fears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the evening they chatted to their loved ones via Zoom and watched videos friends and family members had sent them to celebrate the day .
`` It was a really lovely day and it saved us from sitting indoors being depressed .
`` We had the best day , it was the best day of lockdown .
It was so great . ''
Jennifer and Steven met in a bar and Steven popped the question while they were on holiday in Mexico in 2017 .
She said : `` I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down to the beach for photos , and I was looking out to the sea and when I turned around Steven was down on one knee .
Tyler also played a part in the special moment and was given the important job of looking after the ring .
`` My son would n't leave this bag for the whole day , and I was like 'what 's going on ' . ''
The couple were due to celebrate with 150 of their nearest and dearest at a stunning wedding venue in Rochester , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a barn .
`` It 's beautiful , as soon as you pull up there is that wow factor . ''
Jennifer picked up her wedding dress a week before lockdown was introduced , and staff were convinced she would still get her big day .
Even after the strict measures were introduced the couple thought they might still be able to have their day , hoping lockdown would be lifted in time .
But last month they got a call from their venue telling them they had to rescheule .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by all their loved ones , in April next year .

Couple recreate what would've been their special day after coronavirus cancellation
Couple recreate what would've been their special day after coronavirus cancellation
EXCLUSIVE: Steven Derosa got down on one knee to propose to his girlfriend Jennifer Wheeler on a beautiful beach in Mexico three years ago, but due to coronavirus they've got to wait even longer to become husband and wife
'My husband thought I was mad when I told him my plan when wedding was cancelled'
Jennifer Wheeler and Steven Derosa have spent the past three years planning their dream wedding.
Countless hours went into finding the perfect venue, working out the guestlist and deciding on the dress and suits.
But like hundreds of other couples, the pair, who have been together for seven years, have now been forced to cancel their wedding due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Instead of just letting what should have been their wedding day pass quietly, they decided to make sure it was still a day to remember.
Jennifer, 36, from Romford, told Mirror Online: "When I first came up with the idea my husband thought I had gone mad.
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
"We were absolutely devastated, it's something we've been planning for three years. We've put so much time and effort in to it. We were both gutted.
"But the more I thought about it and the closer the actual date got, we thought what are we going to do, it's going to be so sad.
"I thought, you know what, I'm going to turn this around and turn it into something positive. We're going to do a full blown wedding."
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
So they started planning, and when their big day finally arrived they certainly had a celebration to remember.
Steven, Jennifer and her son Tyler, 14, decorated their home with fairy lights, made button holes and a bouquet and created a three-tier 'cake' out of polystyrene.
On the morning, the bride started by doing her hair and make up and putting on a stunning white dress.
She decided to save her wedding gown for the rescheduled day, so instead opted for a white summer dress.
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
She then walked down an aisle lined with flowers to meet her future husband.
Tyler played the role of vicar, witness and guests as the couple said their vows and shared their first kiss.
They then went out to the communal garden to take some wedding photos, and their neighbours came out to clap and raise a glass.
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
Jennifer even got to throw her bouquet, although nobody tried to catch it through fears of breaking the 2m social distancing rules.
In the evening they chatted to their loved ones via Zoom and watched videos friends and family members had sent to celebrate the day.
"It was a really lovely day and it saved us from sitting indoors being depressed.
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
"We had the best day, it was the best day of lockdown. It was so great."
Jennifer and Steven met in a bar and he popped the question while they were on holiday in Mexico in 2017.
She said: "I wasn't expecting it. They forced me down to the beach for photos, and I was looking out to the sea and when I turned around Steven was down on one knee.
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
"It was a complete shock."
Tyler also played a part in the special moment and was given the important job of looking after the ring.
"My son wouldn't leave this bag for the whole day, and I was like 'what's going on'."
Image: Jennifer Wheeler) Jennifer Wheeler)
The couple were due to celebrate with 150 of their nearest and dearest at a stunning wedding venue in Rochester, which has the ruins of a castle and a barn.
"It's beautiful, as soon as you pull up there is that wow factor."
Jennifer picked up her wedding dress a week before lockdown was introduced, and staff were convinced she would still get her big day.
Even after the strict measures were introduced the couple thought they might still be able to have their day, hoping lockdown would be lifted in time.
But last month they got a call from their venue telling them they had to rescheule.
They will hold their real wedding, surrounded by all their loved ones, in April next year.


thedailymirror--2020-05-05--Second coronavirus peak 'very real' and the UK 'needs to watch out for it'

The threat of a second coronavirus peak is 'very real ' , MPs have been warned today .
Sir Patrick Vallance , the government 's chief scientific advisor , told the Parliamentary Health and Social Care Committee today : `` I can tell you that a second peak is something that is very real , that you need to watch out for , and you can see it in other countries . ''
More than 29,000 lives have been lost to Covid-19 in the UK to date with that figure expected to continue to rise over the coming days and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rapid easing of lockdown measures could lead to the virus spiking once again and a risk the NHS could be overwhelmed leading to tens of thousands more deaths .
Sign up to get the Mirror ’ s daily coronavirus briefing email at mirror.co.uk/email Sir Patrick was asked whether there is a risk of a second wave hitting the UK when people return from other countries , especially those that have not had their peak yet .
He said a calculation had been done around three weeks ago on the likely impact of imported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cases of the virus in the UK .
He said : `` At that point , when you took all of the travel and you took all of the numbers coming in , it would have been something under 0.5 % of all the cases would have come in through imports .
`` Now clearly that equation reverses when you get down to very low numbers in your own country and you have higher numbers elsewhere , and that 's when you need to be vigilant on how you think about isolation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But , again , this is a pandemic , it means it 's everywhere , and therefore cases can come from anywhere in the world . ''
Asked about the likelihood of a second wave , Sir Patrick said : `` I think if we do test , track and tracing well , and we keep the social distancing measures at the right level , we should be able to avoid a second wave . ''
However , he said he wanted to add one caveat `` which is winter is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu circulating , and you have all the other respiratory infection '' .
Sir Patrick today said the R number - the number of people infected by each Covid-19 carrier - is 0.6 to 0.9 but lower in London .
That is down from `` something close to 3 '' in the early stages of the pandemic and means the virus is not spreading exponentially .
Yet he warned we are still `` quite early '' in the epidemic and `` it does n't mean the whole thing 's gone away . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people '' who ’ ve had coronavirus get `` some form of antibody response '' - but this does not mean they 're immune .
He said : `` An antibody response is likely in most people to provide some form of immune protection .
`` But how much we don ’ t know .
Experience from other coronaviruses suggests it may last for one , two , three years but not many many years . ''
Sir Patrick warned no measures easing the lockdown will be completely safe .
He told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be risk-free .
Everything as we go back to less social distancing will carry a risk of there being an outbreak somewhere or a few more cases or in worst case scenario , R goes above 1 .
We need a very effective surveillance system to pick that up.
” He was asked if he knew back in March what is known now , whether events such as Cheltenham and the Champions League match would have been allowed to go ahead .
He said : `` In terms of what would I do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we know now , I think that 's something for the future to look at .
`` And certainly there will be times when evidence did n't allow decisions to be made that you could make now , and there 'll be times at which you look back and say that something might have been done differently , I 've got no doubt about that . ''
He added : `` I think this is a new virus , we don ’ t know about it , it ’ s something nobody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re learning as we go along .
”

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Dan Bloom, Tom Davidson)

Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific advisor, warned MPs today that no measures easing the Covid-19 lockdown will be completely safe
Second coronavirus peak 'very real' and something the UK 'needs to watch out for'
The threat of a second coronavirus peak is 'very real', MPs have been warned today.
Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific advisor, told the Parliamentary Health and Social Care Committee today: "I can tell you that a second peak is something that is very real, that you need to watch out for, and you can see it in other countries."
More than 29,000 lives have been lost to Covid-19 in the UK to date with that figure expected to continue to rise over the coming days and weeks.
There are fears that a rapid easing of lockdown measures could lead to the virus spiking once again and a risk the NHS could be overwhelmed leading to tens of thousands more deaths.
Sign up to get the Mirror’s daily coronavirus briefing email at mirror.co.uk/email
Image: Falkirk Herald / SWNS.COM) Falkirk Herald / SWNS.COM)
Sir Patrick was asked whether there is a risk of a second wave hitting the UK when people return from other countries, especially those that have not had their peak yet.
He said a calculation had been done around three weeks ago on the likely impact of imported cases in terms of the total number of cases of the virus in the UK.
He said: "At that point, when you took all of the travel and you took all of the numbers coming in, it would have been something under 0.5% of all the cases would have come in through imports.
"Now clearly that equation reverses when you get down to very low numbers in your own country and you have higher numbers elsewhere, and that's when you need to be vigilant on how you think about isolation and testing of cases coming in.
"But, again, this is a pandemic, it means it's everywhere, and therefore cases can come from anywhere in the world."
Asked about the likelihood of a second wave, Sir Patrick said: "I think if we do test, track and tracing well, and we keep the social distancing measures at the right level, we should be able to avoid a second wave."
However, he said he wanted to add one caveat "which is winter is going to be extremely difficult when you also have flu circulating, and you have all the other respiratory infection".
Sir Patrick today said the R number - the number of people infected by each Covid-19 carrier - is 0.6 to 0.9 but lower in London.
That is down from "something close to 3" in the early stages of the pandemic and means the virus is not spreading exponentially.
Yet he warned we are still "quite early" in the epidemic and "it doesn't mean the whole thing's gone away."
Sir Patrick said "the vast majority of people" who’ve had coronavirus get "some form of antibody response" - but this does not mean they're immune.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
He said: "An antibody response is likely in most people to provide some form of immune protection.
"But how much we don’t know. Experience from other coronaviruses suggests it may last for one, two, three years but not many many years."
Sir Patrick warned no measures easing the lockdown will be completely safe.
He told MPs: “Nothing is going to be risk-free. Everything as we go back to less social distancing will carry a risk of there being an outbreak somewhere or a few more cases or in worst case scenario, R goes above 1. We need a very effective surveillance system to pick that up.”
Image: Falkirk Herald / SWNS.COM) Falkirk Herald / SWNS.COM)
He was asked if he knew back in March what is known now, whether events such as Cheltenham and the Champions League match would have been allowed to go ahead.
He said: "In terms of what would I do in retrospect, if we knew then what we know now, I think that's something for the future to look at.
"And certainly there will be times when evidence didn't allow decisions to be made that you could make now, and there'll be times at which you look back and say that something might have been done differently, I've got no doubt about that."
He added: "I think this is a new virus, we don’t know about it, it’s something nobody has seen before and therefore inevitably we’re learning as we go along.”