thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Nurse's tearful plea to stop emptying supermarkets after her 48 hour shift

A critical care nurse has made a tearful request to the public to stop panic-buying during the coronavirus crisis as key workers are being left without vital nourishment .
In a heartbreaking video , Dawn Bilbrough , 51 , from York , asks people to `` just stop taking more food than needed , warning the public it 's key workers who will be `` looking after you when you 're at your lowest '' .
She admits she had a `` little cry '' in the supermarket after seeing the fruit and vegetable shelves totally bare .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stay healthy .
And those people ... people are just stripping the shelves of basic foods .
You just need to stop it .
`` Because it 's people like me that are going to be looking after you when you 're at your lowest so just stop it .
Please ! ''
The video comes as supermarkets bring in more stringent measures to ensure food is distributed more evenly among society .
Shelves have been stripped bare at Tesco , Sainsbury 's , Asda and Morrisons , as customers attempt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , handwash and pasta .
There were also violent scenes at an Iceland store in Ilford , east London , earlier this week after an elderly shopper was pushed and shoved out of a packed Iceland store .
Customers were seen queuing outside an Aldi even before the doors opened this morning , with most people heading to the loo rolls section straight away - even though the Government has told Britons not to `` panic buy '' .
Major supermarkets including Sainsbury 's , Tesco , Aldi and Morrisons have rationed how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Some have restricted purchases in-demand items like toilet roll , paracetemol and pasta , while others have brought in blanket bans on multiple purchases .
It 's just one of a number of measures brought in by the nation 's grocers , as pictures of empty shelves spread through social media like wildfire .
Panic buyers have stripped shelves of everything they can - in some cases leaving just ice cream and chocolate Easter eggs - while huge queues snaked around some supermarkets ahead of opening on Wednesday .
Currently there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government , although pressure is growing to impose them , and supermarket bosses insist there is no shortage - simply people over-buying .
In the interim , the shops have taken action themselves - limiting customer purchases and opening hours .
Competition laws will be temporarily relaxed to allow supermarkets to collaborate in feeding the nation during the coronavirus crisis .
Retailers will be able to pool staff , share data on stock levels , and share distribution depots and delivery vans as the Government seeks to ease restrictions under the exceptional circumstances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work together for the sole purpose of feeding the nation as they face a strain from intense demand amid panic buying , ministers said .
The 5p plastic bag charge will also be waived for online purchases to hasten deliveries , and drivers ' hours will be relaxed so more food can be delivered to stores .
Environment Secretary George Eustice listened to the calls of retailers and confirmed elements of the law would be waived during a meeting with chief executives on Thursday .
`` We 've listened to the powerful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do whatever it takes to help them feed the nation , '' he said .
`` By relaxing elements of competition laws temporarily , our retailers can work together on their contingency plans and share the resources they need with each other during these unprecedented circumstances .

Critical care nurse Dawn Bilbrough, 51, made an emotional plea to the public to stop depriving others of basic goods when she was left empty handed after finishing a 48-hour shift
A critical care nurse has made a tearful request to the public to stop panic-buying during the coronavirus crisis as key workers are being left without vital nourishment.
Her plea comes as chaotic scenes across the country have seen supermarket shelves stripped bare, despite continued insistence from both the government and supermarket bosses that there is enough food.
In a heartbreaking video, Dawn Bilbrough, 51, from York, asks people to "just stop taking more food than needed, warning the public it's key workers who will be "looking after you when you're at your lowest".
She admits she had a "little cry" in the supermarket after seeing the fruit and vegetable shelves totally bare.
"I don't know how I'm supposed to stay healthy. And those people... people are just stripping the shelves of basic foods. You just need to stop it.
"Because it's people like me that are going to be looking after you when you're at your lowest so just stop it. Please!"
GMB's Susanna Reid said her "heart absolutely broke" when she heard Dawn's emotional plea.
A desperate paramedic who had been out saving lives at work was also pictured staring at empty shelves in a Sainsbury's.
Supermarkets have introduced tighter restrictions on opening hours and item limits in order to tackle the issue.
Image: @LAS_NorthWest) @LAS_NorthWest)
Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons have been decimated of essential items such as toilet roll, handwash and pasta. Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, and bread stocks have also been severely raided.
There were also violent scenes at an Iceland store in Ilford, east London, earlier this week after an elderly shopper was pushed and shoved out of a packed Iceland store.
Customers were seen queuing outside an Aldi even before the doors opened this morning, with most people heading to the loo rolls section straight away - even though the Government has told Britons not to "panic buy".
Major supermarkets including Sainsbury's, Tesco, Aldi and Morrisons have rationed how much of certain products customers can buy.
Some stores had scenes of “bedlam” and were stripped bare within 30 minutes, while staff were abused over queue lengths and limits on purchases.
There were even reports of fights between shoppers and attacks on workers. And some inconsiderate hoarders crashed early-morning slots reserved for the elderly and vulnerable to visit and grab vital supplies.
Image: PA) PA)
One social media user said: “I was in a store last night and the shelves were bare. The locusts had descended.”
Posting a picture of full shelves yesterday morning, they added: “Your night shift shelf-stackers are heroes.”
David Williams of shopworkers’ union Usdaw said: “Shopworkers are on the front line. There are incidents of mass scrabbling when stuff goes on to the shelves.
"People are working out when the lorries arrive at the stores and are waiting for the products to come out.”
In Manchester, 75-year-old pensioner Marilyn Lundy said she had to leave a branch of Sainsbury's empty handed after she found the shelves empty and urged 'greedy' shoppers to think twice before filling their trolleys.
Kath Blayden, 78, was looking for paracetamol, long-life milk, loo rolls and tinned pineapple.
Staring at the empty painkiller shelf, she said: “I have never seen anything like this. People are being greedy and I think this will only get worse. There’s enough to go around if they weren’t so selfish.”
At Tesco, Marion Koppel, 96, said: “I’m trying to do my normal shopping but people are panic buying so much they are making it impossible.
“I don’t know what has got into everyone – please just calm down.”
Kathryn Hopkins, 56, from Doncaster said: “Some stores are opening early for pensioners but in our region their free bus pass is not valid until after 9.30am.”
The carer said she had tried to do a shop on Wednesday but failed – despite visiting three stores before 10am.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
She said: “It must be a terrible shock to older people who turn up and the shelves are empty. A lot of the basics are nowhere to be seen.”
Retired teacher Lesley Thornton said she nearly wept when she saw a couple in their 80s only manage to get a bag of hotdog buns at a Sainsbury’s in North East London.
The 59-year-old said: “It was bedlam and makes me feel so frustrated. It was so shocking how empty the store was. The whole frozen section was gone.
"But I saw kind gestures too, with people handing over goods they’d got to others who were looking for it.”
Several supermarket chains have restricted purchases in-demand items like toilet roll, paracetemol and pasta, while others have brought in blanket bans on multiple purchases.
Image: PA) PA) Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
It's just one of a number of measures brought in by the nation's grocers, as pictures of empty shelves spread through social media like wildfire.
Panic buyers have stripped shelves of everything they can - in some cases leaving just ice cream and chocolate Easter eggs - while huge queues snaked around some supermarkets ahead of opening on Wednesday.
Currently there are no official limits coming down from the Government, although pressure is growing to impose them, and supermarket bosses insist there is no shortage - simply people over-buying.
Image: ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock) ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock) Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
In the interim, the shops have taken action themselves - limiting customer purchases and opening hours.
Competition laws will be temporarily relaxed to allow supermarkets to collaborate in feeding the nation during the coronavirus crisis.
Retailers will be able to pool staff, share data on stock levels, and share distribution depots and delivery vans as the Government seeks to ease restrictions under the exceptional circumstances.
The temporary relaxation only permits retailers to work together for the sole purpose of feeding the nation as they face a strain from intense demand amid panic buying, ministers said.
Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror) Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
The 5p plastic bag charge will also be waived for online purchases to hasten deliveries, and drivers' hours will be relaxed so more food can be delivered to stores.
Environment Secretary George Eustice listened to the calls of retailers and confirmed elements of the law would be waived during a meeting with chief executives on Thursday.
"We've listened to the powerful arguments of our leading supermarkets and will do whatever it takes to help them feed the nation," he said.
"By relaxing elements of competition laws temporarily, our retailers can work together on their contingency plans and share the resources they need with each other during these unprecedented circumstances.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Rochelle Humes enjoys self-isolation by dancing with lookalike sisters

Rochelle Humes appears to be having the best time ever while in self-isolation .
The This Morning star , 30 , has got a full house as she 's spending the next couple of days with her kids , and her lookalike sisters , Sophie and Lili .
After completing her last day of work in the ITV studios today , the presenter headed home to spend some quality time with her family .
It 's only been a few hours , but Rochelle has been putting her free time to good use by working up a sweat on her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dancing and making videos with her sisters .
Former Love Island star Sophie , 21 , took to her Instagram to give followers an inside glimpse into the fun that was going down .
Taking her stories , the brunette beauty posted a video of her big sis burning calories while on an exercise bike .
Praising Rochellle for her hard work , Sophie insisted that there are `` two types of people in the world '' , adding that she would n't dream of getting up on an exercise bike at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presenter did n't seem too bothered about her sister filming her workout as she laughed into the camera .
Afterwards , Rochelle and Sophie were joined by their other sister Lili , 23 , and they decided to kill the time by making some funny videos .
Posing up a storm for the camera , the three stunners sung along to a TikTok song while smiling and laughing into the camera .
Dressed in their casual and comfy gear , the girls looked as though they were enjoying a slumber party rather than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweet family video , Rochelle wrote : `` Three sisters in isolation '' .
It was n't long before her followers rushed to share their disbelief at how similar the three sisters looked , with many adding that they found it hard to tell the girls a part .
`` Oh wow you are all so unbelievably stunning .
I almost could n't tell you a part ! ''
shared one surprised fan .
While others commented : `` I love this .
All three of you look so alike .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I couldn ’ t tell that there was 3 - you all look so similar ! ''
echoed a third fan .
`` Wow ... .i ca n't figure out which of you is the most stunning '' a fourth added .
It did n't stop there however as more fans just could n't get their heads around how similar each of the girls are to one another .
`` Okay , but who is who ? ''
quipped a confused fan , while another suggested : `` Can you wear name tags @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safe indoors while self isolating in a bid to stop the spread of the coronavirus across the UK .

Rochelle and her lookalike sisters sing and dance in isolation together
Rochelle and her lookalike sisters sing and dance in isolation together
The This Morning presenter is keeping busy while having the best time in self-isolation with her lookalike sisters Sophie and Lili
Rochelle Humes appears to be having the best time ever while in self-isolation.
The This Morning star, 30, has got a full house as she's spending the next couple of days with her kids, and her lookalike sisters, Sophie and Lili.
After completing her last day of work in the ITV studios today, the presenter headed home to spend some quality time with her family.
It's only been a few hours, but Rochelle has been putting her free time to good use by working up a sweat on her at-home exercise equipment, as well as dancing and making videos with her sisters.
Image: Rochelle Humes/Instagram) Rochelle Humes/Instagram)
Former Love Island star Sophie, 21, took to her Instagram to give followers an inside glimpse into the fun that was going down.
Taking her stories, the brunette beauty posted a video of her big sis burning calories while on an exercise bike.
Praising Rochellle for her hard work, Sophie insisted that there are "two types of people in the world", adding that she wouldn't dream of getting up on an exercise bike at a time like this.
The This Morning presenter didn't seem too bothered about her sister filming her workout as she laughed into the camera.
Image: sophpiper/Instagram) sophpiper/Instagram)
Afterwards, Rochelle and Sophie were joined by their other sister Lili, 23, and they decided to kill the time by making some funny videos.
Posing up a storm for the camera, the three stunners sung along to a TikTok song while smiling and laughing into the camera.
Dressed in their casual and comfy gear, the girls looked as though they were enjoying a slumber party rather than the reality of self-isolating.
Image: sophpiper/Instagram) sophpiper/Instagram)
Alongside the sweet family video, Rochelle wrote: "Three sisters in isolation".
It wasn't long before her followers rushed to share their disbelief at how similar the three sisters looked, with many adding that they found it hard to tell the girls a part.
"Oh wow you are all so unbelievably stunning. I almost couldn't tell you a part!" shared one surprised fan.
Image: sophpiper/Instagram) sophpiper/Instagram)
While others commented: "I love this. All three of you look so alike. It's actually madness!".
"Omg I couldn’t tell that there was 3 - you all look so similar!" echoed a third fan.
"Wow....i can't figure out which of you is the most stunning" a fourth added.
It didn't stop there however as more fans just couldn't get their heads around how similar each of the girls are to one another.
"Okay, but who is who?" quipped a confused fan, while another suggested: "Can you wear name tags?".
The girls are keeping safe indoors while self isolating in a bid to stop the spread of the coronavirus across the UK.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Domestic cups under threat as English football prioritises finishing 2019/20

English football 's total commitment to finishing off this season could lead to one or both of the domestic cups being scrapped for the 2020/21 campaign .
The Premier League and EFL have both confirmed that they will do whatever it takes to finish off the current campaign in the face of the coronavirus crisis , with no other alternative put forward at their meetings this week .
A variety of legal and sporting issues were sure to arise with any other option , and the leagues are prepared to play on through the summer in order to finish the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their clubs at the beginning of the campaign .
The knock-on effect of that is likely to see a congested fixture list for the 2020/21 campaign , with one or both of the domestic cups potentially paying the price as a variety of options lie on the table in terms of what to do next .
One of those is to lose the FA Cup and/or League Cup from the schedules for a season , but removing them would be fraught with issues .
The FA would be loathe to lose the FA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competition in world football and has been played since 1872 .
The competition 's reputation has often come under fire and it may never recover from being axed .
That leaves the League Cup as the more likely of the two to go , something that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has said he would like to see happen prior to the pandemic hitting Europe hard .
But despite that competition often being looked down upon , it still provides valuable income for lower league sides .
The football leagues agreed to postpone football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday .
`` The FA , Premier League , EFL and women 's professional game , together with the PFA and LMA , understand we are in unprecedented times and our thoughts are with everyone affected by COVID-19 , '' they said in a statement .
`` We are united in our commitment to finding ways of resuming the 2019/20 football season and ensuring all domestic and European club league and cup matches are played as soon as it is safe and possible to do so .
`` We have collectively supported UEFA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the calendar to ensure domestic and European club league and cup matches have an increased opportunity to be played and , in doing so , maintain the integrity of each competition .
`` The FA 's Rules and Regulations state that 'the season shall terminate not later than June 1 and 'each competition shall , within the limits laid down by The FA , determine the length of its own playing season ' .
`` However , the FA 's Board has agreed for this limit to be extended indefinitely for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Additionally , we have collectively agreed that the professional game in England will be further postponed until no earlier than April . ''

Removing the FA Cup and the League Cup from the calendar next season is one of the options English football are considering as they commit to finishing the current campaign
English football's total commitment to finishing off this season could lead to one or both of the domestic cups being scrapped for the 2020/21 campaign.
The Premier League and EFL have both confirmed that they will do whatever it takes to finish off the current campaign in the face of the coronavirus crisis, with no other alternative put forward at their meetings this week.
A variety of legal and sporting issues were sure to arise with any other option, and the leagues are prepared to play on through the summer in order to finish the fixture lists that were effectively promised to their clubs at the beginning of the campaign.
The knock-on effect of that is likely to see a congested fixture list for the 2020/21 campaign, with one or both of the domestic cups potentially paying the price as a variety of options lie on the table in terms of what to do next.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
One of those is to lose the FA Cup and/or League Cup from the schedules for a season, but removing them would be fraught with issues.
The FA would be loathe to lose the FA Cup, which is the oldest cup competition in world football and has been played since 1872. The competition's reputation has often come under fire and it may never recover from being axed.
That leaves the League Cup as the more likely of the two to go, something that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has said he would like to see happen prior to the pandemic hitting Europe hard.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
But despite that competition often being looked down upon, it still provides valuable income for lower league sides.
The football leagues agreed to postpone football until April 30 at a meeting on Thursday.
"The FA, Premier League, EFL and women's professional game, together with the PFA and LMA, understand we are in unprecedented times and our thoughts are with everyone affected by COVID-19," they said in a statement.
"We are united in our commitment to finding ways of resuming the 2019/20 football season and ensuring all domestic and European club league and cup matches are played as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.
Image: Action Images via Reuters) Action Images via Reuters)
"We have collectively supported UEFA in postponing EURO 2020 to create space in the calendar to ensure domestic and European club league and cup matches have an increased opportunity to be played and, in doing so, maintain the integrity of each competition.
"The FA's Rules and Regulations state that 'the season shall terminate not later than June 1 and 'each competition shall, within the limits laid down by The FA, determine the length of its own playing season'.
"However, the FA's Board has agreed for this limit to be extended indefinitely for the 2019/20 season in relation to Professional Football. Additionally, we have collectively agreed that the professional game in England will be further postponed until no earlier than April."


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Ask an expert - Dr Miriam Stoppard answers your burning coronavirus questions

With so much new advice and the ever-changing situation with coronavirus , it can be very confusing .
Here , Dr Miriam Stoppard answers your questions on everything from self-isolating to risk groups and future plans ... We are told deaths relating to coronavirus are people with underlying health problems .
Can you clarify what these might be ?
Underlying health problems mean any chronic medical condition such as heart disease , high blood pressure , diabetes , lung disease , kidney disease and liver disease .
Cancer and cancer treatments like chemotherapy would also make a person vulnerable .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ immune system and make the body less resilient , so you should follow all the advice the Government has given us – e.g .
self-isolating , not mixing with people , not going out and not travelling .
I ’ m 73 and have had three heart attacks but feel healthy , should I self-isolate ?
I also had Asian flu in 1957 , will I still have the antibodies from this and will they protect me against Covid-19 ?
Despite feeling healthy , your three heart attacks put you in the vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I wish I could say having Asian flu in 1957 would protect you but I ’ m afraid it won ’ t .
Each virus is specific and the only thing that would protect us is a specific vaccination for Covid-19 .
My daughter and daughter-in-law are pregnant .
Both are going to work from home but are pregnant women more at risk from this virus and are there any precautions they should be taking ?
Pregnant women are always considered a special group that requires special attention .
In this outbreak , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , the Chief Medical Officer has put pregnant women into the “ vulnerable ” group , alongside older people and those that have underlying medical conditions .
So if your daughter and daughter-in-law can , I suggest they self-isolate , stay in their homes , do not mix with other people and do not go outdoors unless necessary .
I ’ m 71 with underlying health conditions and I play golf regularly .
Should I carry on while avoiding physical contact with playing partners , and avoiding the bar and clubhouse ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s great that you play golf to keep fit but if you have underlying health conditions I wouldn ’ t advise you continue to play – there will always be mixing with other people and you ’ d be exposed to contaminated surfaces .
If there ’ s any way you could play entirely on your own , without any contact with others , it might work .
If this isn ’ t possible you should stop playing golf altogether for the time being .
I have mental health disorders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ physical health conditions .
I ’ m worried I ’ ll become more depressed , anxious and vulnerable if I self-isolate .
Should I stop going out because of coronavirus already , and what can I do if I do to help my mental health ?
I ’ m very sympathetic but with your medical background you ’ d be well advised to self-isolate and put in place some things that could protect you from loneliness .
First , I think you should make a resolution to Skype family or friends at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a couple of times each day would help as well .
Be more active on social media platforms and engage with your online friends .
Make sure you ’ re eating a healthy diet , not too much coffee , no alcohol – and get a good night ’ s sleep .
Is delaying the spread the best policy ?
Won ’ t it just prolong people ’ s anxiety ?
Delaying the spread is the strategy to take pressure off the NHS .
There are downsides and you describe one of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will relax until we hit a peak of some sort .
As it happens , it might not be possible to delay the spread .
The Government may have acted too late with restrictive measures .
To my mind , we should be going further , as they are in France and Spain , with almost total lockdown .
It worked in Wuhan and South Korea .
Why aren ’ t we doing it ?
I ’ m 65 with type 2 diabetes and on insulin .
I ’ ve had an aorta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood thinners .
I have high blood pressure too .
I ’ m due to look after my granddaughter if her school closes but would that be wise ?
With all your medical complaints , you ’ re vulnerable .
I think you should be self-isolating , only going out to shop for food or get your medication .
I don ’ t think it is a good idea to look after your granddaughter , she ’ ll probably be OK but she might carry the virus to you .
The latest advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your family .
My wife and I are in our 70s and she has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease .
We have a holiday booked for June 20 .
I have paid a deposit and need to pay the balance in April to keep the holiday .
Should I ?
I don ’ t think so .
The Government ’ s guidelines say because of your age , you and your wife fall into the vulnerable category – especially as she suffers from COPD .
This means you should self-isolate , not travel and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eating out in cafés and restaurants .
It ’ s a shame but I think you ’ ll have to lose your deposit .
I ’ m 78 and my wife is 68 and she is susceptible to pneumonia .
We ’ ve recently moved and don ’ t have any friends or relatives close by .
In the case of self-isolating , we ’ ll have no one to help .
What should we do ?
You could stay in touch by phone , Skype , WhatsApp and social media .
By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
You can also keep your family and friends alert to feeling unwell and they can help you get support .
You or your family could phone the local council to see if there ’ s a service that would do your shopping .
I know it ’ s hard because a lot of us are going to feel bereft in the coming months but we just have to do what we can .
What ’ s the best way to help your immune system cope with the virus ?
There ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside to boost your immune system .
The only way would be to have a vaccination so your immune system produced antibodies specifically against coronavirus .
Exposure to the virus could stimulate your immune system to produce those antibodies itself .
With over-70s spending more time at home , will those without access to a garden be advised to take vitamin D ?
With so little sunshine during the winter , people in the older age group are already advised to take 10mcg of vitamin D every day in the autumn and winter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes it ’ s even more important to follow this advice .
My daughter is in her 30s and expecting her first baby mid-May .
She is terrified of there not being a bed available when she goes into labour .
How can I reassure her on this ?
We can ’ t predict how the NHS might decide to reallocate hospital beds to accommodate patients with Covid-19 .
But I think the last beds commandeered would be maternity beds .
Maternity wards are likely to be exempt from being used for coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is women have been giving birth at home for millennia and I ’ m sure your daughter is strong enough to face up to that .
Were she living in the Netherlands , and if her pregnancy is healthy and normal , she would automatically have a home birth .
To strengthen her resolve , I suggest she reads up on hypnobirthing , which imbues a woman with confidence about the strength and resilience of her body and her ability to take birth in her stride .

With so many rumours about, it is important that people of all ages are knowledgeable about the risks posed by the killer virus. Read our Q&A below
Coronavirus: Dr Miriam explains what underlying health problems are and who is at risk
With so much new advice and the ever-changing situation with coronavirus, it can be very confusing.
Here, Dr Miriam Stoppard answers your questions on everything from self-isolating to risk groups and future plans...
We are told deaths relating to coronavirus are people with underlying health problems. Can you clarify what these might be?
Brenda Tiley, 69, from Luton
Underlying health problems mean any chronic medical condition such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease and liver disease.
Cancer and cancer treatments like chemotherapy would also make a person vulnerable. These conditions put a strain on the immune system and make the body less resilient, so you should follow all the advice the Government has given us – e.g. self-isolating, not mixing with people, not going out and not travelling.
Image: Adam Sorenson - Daily Mirror) Adam Sorenson - Daily Mirror)
I’m 73 and have had three heart attacks but feel healthy, should I self-isolate? I also had Asian flu in 1957, will I still have the antibodies from this and will they protect me against Covid-19?
Frank Robinson, Swinton, Manchester
Despite feeling healthy, your three heart attacks put you in the vulnerable group, so you should self-isolate. I wish I could say having Asian flu in 1957 would protect you but I’m afraid it won’t. Each virus is specific and the only thing that would protect us is a specific vaccination for Covid-19.
My daughter and daughter-in-law are pregnant. Both are going to work from home but are pregnant women more at risk from this virus and are there any precautions they should be taking?
Tina Wallman, 60, Camberley, Surrey
Pregnant women are always considered a special group that requires special attention. In this outbreak, that doesn’t change.
In fact, the Chief Medical Officer has put pregnant women into the “vulnerable” group, alongside older people and those that have underlying medical conditions.
So if your daughter and daughter-in-law can, I suggest they self-isolate, stay in their homes, do not mix with other people and do not go outdoors unless necessary.
Image: Collect Unknown) Collect Unknown)
I’m 71 with underlying health conditions and I play golf regularly. Should I carry on while avoiding physical contact with playing partners, and avoiding the bar and clubhouse? I enjoy the fresh air and exercise.
Peter Sidebotham, Stalybridge, Cheshire
It’s great that you play golf to keep fit but if you have underlying health conditions I wouldn’t advise you continue to play – there will always be mixing with other people and you’d be exposed to contaminated surfaces.
If there’s any way you could play entirely on your own, without any contact with others, it might work. If this isn’t possible you should stop playing golf altogether for the time being.
When should you call NHS 111? Those experiencing coronavirus symptoms, such as a cough or fever, should self-isolate for seven days. You should stay at home if you or or anyone in your household has a high temperature or a new and continuous cough - even if it's mild. Everyone in your household must stay at home for 14 days and keep away from others as it can take 14 days for them to appear.
DO NOT go to your GP or hospital.
Go to NHS.UK to check your symptoms and follow the specialist medical advice.
Only call 111 if you can't get online, you feel like you can't cope at home, or your symptoms do not get better after the seven days.
If you are pregnant you should call 111 if you have any concerns about yourself or unborn baby during self-isolation.
Pregnant women are advised to contact their midwife, out-of-hours helplines or a maternity team who will provide information on whether you need to go to hospital.
I have mental health disorders including depression, as well as underlying physical health conditions. I’m worried I’ll become more depressed, anxious and vulnerable if I self-isolate. Should I stop going out because of coronavirus already, and what can I do if I do to help my mental health?
Name withheld
I’m very sympathetic but with your medical background you’d be well advised to self-isolate and put in place some things that could protect you from loneliness.
First, I think you should make a resolution to Skype family or friends at least once a day. Phoning a friend a couple of times each day would help as well. Be more active on social media platforms and engage with your online friends. Make sure you’re eating a healthy diet, not too much coffee, no alcohol – and get a good night’s sleep.
Image: Collect Unknown) Collect Unknown)
Is delaying the spread the best policy? Won’t it just prolong people’s anxiety?
Ian Mussett
Delaying the spread is the strategy to take pressure off the NHS. There are downsides and you describe one of them. I don’t think anyone will relax until we hit a peak of some sort.
As it happens, it might not be possible to delay the spread. The Government may have acted too late with restrictive measures. To my mind, we should be going further, as they are in France and Spain, with almost total lockdown. It worked in Wuhan and South Korea. Why aren’t we doing it?
I’m 65 with type 2 diabetes and on insulin. I’ve had an aorta valve change and I’m on blood thinners. I have high blood pressure too. I’m due to look after my granddaughter if her school closes but would that be wise?
Alan Bebb, Runcorn, Cheshire
With all your medical complaints, you’re vulnerable. I think you should be self-isolating, only going out to shop for food or get your medication. I don’t think it is a good idea to look after your granddaughter, she’ll probably be OK but she might carry the virus to you. The latest advice is not to even meet up with your family.
My wife and I are in our 70s and she has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We have a holiday booked for June 20. I have paid a deposit and need to pay the balance in April to keep the holiday. Should I?
Graham Newnes, Rutland
Is it safe to take ibuprofen for coronavirus symptoms? The NHS has stopped advising coronavirus patients to take ibuprofen amid concerns the anti-inflammatory painkiller could only make things worse. A statement read: "There is currently no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus (COVID-19) worse. "But until we have more information, take paracetamol to treat the symptoms of coronavirus, unless your doctor has told you paracetamol is not suitable for you. "If you are already taking ibuprofen or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) on the advice of a doctor, do not stop taking it without checking first."
I don’t think so. The Government’s guidelines say because of your age, you and your wife fall into the vulnerable category – especially as she suffers from COPD. This means you should self-isolate, not travel and not mix with other people, like eating out in cafés and restaurants. It’s a shame but I think you’ll have to lose your deposit.
I’m 78 and my wife is 68 and she is susceptible to pneumonia. We’ve recently moved and don’t have any friends or relatives close by. In the case of self-isolating, we’ll have no one to help. What should we do?
Roger Baber, Bideford, Devon
You could stay in touch by phone, Skype, WhatsApp and social media. By doing this you speak to someone every day. You can also keep your family and friends alert to feeling unwell and they can help you get support.
You or your family could phone the local council to see if there’s a service that would do your shopping. I know it’s hard because a lot of us are going to feel bereft in the coming months but we just have to do what we can.
What’s the best way to help your immune system cope with the virus?
Ray Baguely, 82, Newport
There’s nothing you can do from the outside to boost your immune system. The only way would be to have a vaccination so your immune system produced antibodies specifically against coronavirus. Exposure to the virus could stimulate your immune system to produce those antibodies itself.
With over-70s spending more time at home, will those without access to a garden be advised to take vitamin D?
Linda Rachel, 71, Ipswich
With so little sunshine during the winter, people in the older age group are already advised to take 10mcg of vitamin D every day in the autumn and winter months. For people confined to their homes it’s even more important to follow this advice.
My daughter is in her 30s and expecting her first baby mid-May. She is terrified of there not being a bed available when she goes into labour. How can I reassure her on this?
Wendy from Cardiff
We can’t predict how the NHS might decide to reallocate hospital beds to accommodate patients with Covid-19. But I think the last beds commandeered would be maternity beds. Maternity wards are likely to be exempt from being used for coronavirus patients.
Another way to think of it is women have been giving birth at home for millennia and I’m sure your daughter is strong enough to face up to that. Were she living in the Netherlands, and if her pregnancy is healthy and normal, she would automatically have a home birth.
To strengthen her resolve, I suggest she reads up on hypnobirthing, which imbues a woman with confidence about the strength and resilience of her body and her ability to take birth in her stride.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--The One Show hosts forced to move apart live on air after coronavirus complaints

The One Show presenters were forced to move apart tonight after complaints from viewers .
Alex Jones was presenting alongside Patrick Kielty as he stepped in for usual co-host Matt Baker , who is self-isolating at home .
The presenters started the show very close together on the green sofa - but they were called out by angry viewers for not 'social distancing ' .
In an unprecedented moment , Alex apologised once the first segment had ended , admitting : `` We have had a lot of emails about social distancing . ''
As Patrick moved across the sofa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that we 're quite close together .
we hear you and we 've moved apart . ''
Worried Alex confessed it was difficult to break normal habits as she conceded that viewers were correct .
She added : `` It '' s just hard to break habits , is n't it ?
That 's what it is .
We 're so used to sitting , but yeah , you are absolutely right . ''
The One Show viewers had flocked to Twitter to blast the presenters for sitting too close together .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ presenters are sat so close together and guests on the show ?
Really ?
!
Lead by example with # SocialDistancing , '' said one angry viewer .
A third said : `` Come on @ BBCTheOneShow !
!
Show some leadership .
At least one metre between people , but preferably two metres . ''
`` Why is this programme still broadcasting ?
Totally unnecessary .
Five people all sitting close together who do n't even need to be there telling us to socially distance ourselves from each other , '' said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was able to speak via a video call and confessed that he was feeling possible symptoms of coronavirus .
He said : `` I 'll be honest with you I 'm not feeling as good as I normally do .
I 've wondered for a couple of days if we 've got it .
`` I 'm certainly feeling pretty tired and I 've got this dry cough .
I do n't have a fever as such .
`` I 've been going out to try and get some fresh air .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of space to isolate in . ''
Alex Jones was forced to present The One Show alone on Monday night while Matt self-isolated at home .
At the start of the show , Alex announced : `` As you can see ... look .
The sofa is empty .
No Matt Baker .
Like so many of you he is working from home today . ''
Alex was joined in the studio by comedian Russell Kane , who wiped his coffee mug with a anti-bacterial wipe .
Speaking from his living room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Yes I 'm at home .
This is my Alex Jones tonight [ Bob the dog ] and probably for the next two weeks .
`` This afternoon we got a phone call .
Four of us in our household and one of us has a cough .
So that means we are following the Prime Minister 's advice and spending the next two weeks self-isolating . ''
`` Speaking to people over the last few days , we expected this to come , and feel as ready as we can do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our bit , do what 's right for everybody and look after one another . ''
*The One Show airs weekdays on BBC One at 7pm

The One Show's Alex Jones forced to move away from co-host live on air after complaints
The One Show's Alex Jones forced to move away from co-host live on air after complaints
Alex Jones apologised and shifted apart from Patrick Kielty on The One Show sofa after the first segment after getting emails about 'social distancing'
Coronavirus: The One Show hosts forced to move apart live on air after complaints
The One Show presenters were forced to move apart tonight after complaints from viewers.
Alex Jones was presenting alongside Patrick Kielty as he stepped in for usual co-host Matt Baker, who is self-isolating at home.
The presenters started the show very close together on the green sofa - but they were called out by angry viewers for not 'social distancing'.
In an unprecedented moment, Alex apologised once the first segment had ended, admitting: "We have had a lot of emails about social distancing."
As Patrick moved across the sofa, Alex continued: "And the fact that we're quite close together. we hear you and we've moved apart."
Image: BBC) BBC) Image: BBC) BBC)
Worried Alex confessed it was difficult to break normal habits as she conceded that viewers were correct.
She added: "It''s just hard to break habits, isn't it? That's what it is. We're so used to sitting, but yeah, you are absolutely right."
The One Show viewers had flocked to Twitter to blast the presenters for sitting too close together.
Image: BBC) BBC)
"Watching #TheOneShow & shocked the presenters are sat so close together and guests on the show? Really?! Lead by example with #SocialDistancing," said one angry viewer.
Another added: "BBC production team absolutely clueless regarding Social Distancing... Unbelievable Stupidity."
A third said: "Come on @BBCTheOneShow!! Show some leadership. At least one metre between people, but preferably two metres."
"Why is this programme still broadcasting ? Totally unnecessary. Five people all sitting close together who don't even need to be there telling us to socially distance ourselves from each other," said a fourth.
Once again, Matt was able to speak via a video call and confessed that he was feeling possible symptoms of coronavirus.
He said: "I'll be honest with you I'm not feeling as good as I normally do. I've wondered for a couple of days if we've got it.
"I'm certainly feeling pretty tired and I've got this dry cough. I don't have a fever as such.
"I've been going out to try and get some fresh air. We're lucky here as we have a lot of space to isolate in."
Alex Jones was forced to present The One Show alone on Monday night while Matt self-isolated at home.
At the start of the show, Alex announced: "As you can see...look. The sofa is empty. No Matt Baker. Like so many of you he is working from home today."
Alex was joined in the studio by comedian Russell Kane, who wiped his coffee mug with a anti-bacterial wipe.
Speaking from his living room with his dog, Matt said: "Yes I'm at home. This is my Alex Jones tonight [Bob the dog] and probably for the next two weeks.
"This afternoon we got a phone call. Four of us in our household and one of us has a cough. So that means we are following the Prime Minister's advice and spending the next two weeks self-isolating."
"Speaking to people over the last few days, we expected this to come, and feel as ready as we can do.
"More than happy to do our bit, do what's right for everybody and look after one another."
*The One Show airs weekdays on BBC One at 7pm


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--'For businesses fighting Covid-19 the government must do more'

We are experiencing the most grave crisis in public health for over a hundred years .
The Chancellor was right to commit to doing whatever it takes to protect livelihoods now , and in the years to come .
The initial package he brought forward was a good start in that direction – cancelling business rates and providing immediate loans for businesses .
But , just as we have had to revise our view of the required scale of the measures to control the spread of Coronavirus , economic measures that do not rise to the immense challenge of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British economy that is as vicious and as infecting as a virus .
During the Global Financial Crisis governments fulfilled their role as a lender of last resort to the banking system , and that proved decisive .
This time it is different .
Lending alone will not keep many businesses trading and paying their workforce .
If a pub is without customers for month after month ; if a theatre is forced to be dark ; incurring a debt that mounts remorselessly and has to be paid back is unlikely to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more staff are thrown into unemployment , the more contagious the economic virus becomes .
The problem is not one of lending but of insurance .
This once in a century shock is not something that many ordinary businesses and working people could prepare for .
Insurance pays out in the event of unexpected shocks to allow business – and life – to carry on unimpeded , without needing to change behaviour .
In the absence of adequate private insurance being taken out or even available , the risk should be socialised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future years .
The Government should act as an insurer of last resort .
A policy should be adopted immediately in which the Government will stand by the unmet operating costs of businesses , and through them , individual workers during the crisis providing that they continue to operate .
It will involve the state providing a vast sum of money – beyond what Government has ever provided before .
For businesses , support should replicate what business continuity insurance would reasonably provide .
It should allow workers to continue to be employed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – which should be a condition of support , ensuring that skills are not lost , that businesses that will be needed after the crisis have not disappeared and crucially , that we can continue to produce the goods and services that the population will need during a prolonged emergency .
It should offer cash for paying the demonstrated wage bill if employment continues unchanged .
And here are the grounds for optimism .
We will not cure the coronavirus pandemic until an as yet undiscovered vaccine has been developed by scientists .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ power now to inoculate immediately against the devastating viral consequences of contagions , collapses in businesses and employment .
In choosing to use the words “ whatever it takes ” , the Chancellor was consciously emulating the then head of the European Central Bank , who eight years ago calmed a financial crisis by being believed .
If the Chancellor is using those words , they must not be bravado to cover up a less than total commitment .
If he means to save the economy , he needs to act even beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do it now .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Greg Clark, Jack Dromey)

Greg Clark, a Tory former Business Secretary, and Jack Dromey , Labour's Shadow Pensions minister, warn that Britain's businesses will need more support than is currently on the table
Coronavirus: 'For businesses fighting this crisis the government must do more'
We are experiencing the most grave crisis in public health for over a hundred years.
The Chancellor was right to commit to doing whatever it takes to protect livelihoods now, and in the years to come.
The initial package he brought forward was a good start in that direction – cancelling business rates and providing immediate loans for businesses.
But, just as we have had to revise our view of the required scale of the measures to control the spread of Coronavirus, economic measures that do not rise to the immense challenge of this crisis risk a contagion ripping through the British economy that is as vicious and as infecting as a virus.
During the Global Financial Crisis governments fulfilled their role as a lender of last resort to the banking system, and that proved decisive.
This time it is different. Lending alone will not keep many businesses trading and paying their workforce.
If a pub is without customers for month after month; if a theatre is forced to be dark; incurring a debt that mounts remorselessly and has to be paid back is unlikely to prevent business owners letting staff go.
And the more staff are thrown into unemployment, the more contagious the economic virus becomes.
The problem is not one of lending but of insurance.
This once in a century shock is not something that many ordinary businesses and working people could prepare for.
Image: PA) PA)
Insurance pays out in the event of unexpected shocks to allow business – and life – to carry on unimpeded, without needing to change behaviour.
In the absence of adequate private insurance being taken out or even available, the risk should be socialised across the whole economy, and across future years.
The Government should act as an insurer of last resort.
A policy should be adopted immediately in which the Government will stand by the unmet operating costs of businesses, and through them, individual workers during the crisis providing that they continue to operate.
It will involve the state providing a vast sum of money – beyond what Government has ever provided before.
For businesses, support should replicate what business continuity insurance would reasonably provide.
Image: Rex) Rex)
It should allow workers to continue to be employed – at the very least part time – which should be a condition of support, ensuring that skills are not lost, that businesses that will be needed after the crisis have not disappeared and crucially, that we can continue to produce the goods and services that the population will need during a prolonged emergency.
It should offer cash for paying the demonstrated wage bill if employment continues unchanged.
And here are the grounds for optimism.
We will not cure the coronavirus pandemic until an as yet undiscovered vaccine has been developed by scientists.
But we do have it within our power now to inoculate immediately against the devastating viral consequences of contagions, collapses in businesses and employment.
In choosing to use the words “whatever it takes”, the Chancellor was consciously emulating the then head of the European Central Bank, who eight years ago calmed a financial crisis by being believed.
If the Chancellor is using those words, they must not be bravado to cover up a less than total commitment.
If he means to save the economy, he needs to act even beyond what he has announced, and to do it now.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Coronavirus pandemic causes postponement of World Snooker Championship

Next month ’ s Betfred World Championship at the Crucible has been postponed .
The expected decision has been confirmed with an official announcement from World Snooker Tour due on Friday morning .
The 17-day tournament in Sheffield becomes the latest major sporting event to be cancelled , suspended or postponed .
And a tournament due to start on April 18 and preceded by a 128-player qualifying event from April 8 looked doomed as the coronavirus pandemic grew in the UK .
This week ’ s scheduled Tour Championship was first moved behind closed doors and then postponed until July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five-time world champion Ronnie O ’ Sullivan claimed on Thursday that many Chinese players were desperate to go home .
It will be the first time there has not been a World Championship in April since the Sheffield theatre started staging the event in 1977 .
And world No1 Judd Trump , after a spectacular record-breaking season with six other titles , will not get to defend his debut success from last year .
It is understood that the decision was only between cancellation and postponement , with staging the blue-riband event behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hoped the tournament can now be staged in July or August – with uncertainty over other events such as the Olympics preventing a firm decision for now .

The World Snooker Championship, scheduled for April and May at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic
Coronavirus causes World Snooker Championship at Crucible to be postponed
Next month’s Betfred World Championship at the Crucible has been postponed.
The expected decision has been confirmed with an official announcement from World Snooker Tour due on Friday morning.
The 17-day tournament in Sheffield becomes the latest major sporting event to be cancelled, suspended or postponed.
And a tournament due to start on April 18 and preceded by a 128-player qualifying event from April 8 looked doomed as the coronavirus pandemic grew in the UK.
This week’s scheduled Tour Championship was first moved behind closed doors and then postponed until July after discussions with broadcasters ITV.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
And five-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan claimed on Thursday that many Chinese players were desperate to go home.
It will be the first time there has not been a World Championship in April since the Sheffield theatre started staging the event in 1977.
And world No1 Judd Trump, after a spectacular record-breaking season with six other titles, will not get to defend his debut success from last year.
Image: PA) PA)
It is understood that the decision was only between cancellation and postponement, with staging the blue-riband event behind closed doors considered unacceptable.
And it is hoped the tournament can now be staged in July or August – with uncertainty over other events such as the Olympics preventing a firm decision for now.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Why Rob 'Gronk' Gronkowski may just help save WrestleMania

WrestleMania is undoubtedly on its rockiest road ever but WWE could be onto a winner with Rob 'Gronk ' Gronkowski in the driving seat .
The plans for the annual extravaganza may be changing on an almost daily basis , yet the American company simply won ’ t submit to Covid-19 .
As the worldwide coronavirus pandemic took hold , WWE eventually announced on March 16 that the show in Tampa , Florida was officially off .
An official statement read : `` In coordination with local partners and government officials , WrestleMania and all related events in Tampa Bay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , WrestleMania will still stream live on Sunday , April 5 at 7pm ET on WWE Network and be available on pay-per-view .
`` Only essential personnel will be on the closed set at WWE ’ s training facility in Orlando , Florida to produce WrestleMania . ''
WrestleMania 36 was set to be staged before a passionate crowd upwards of 70,000 at the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Raymond James Stadium .
The city had bid generously to host an extravaganza that in turn would have generated somewhere in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the local economy .
As America 's health protection agency , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , began advising that public gatherings should be restricted , WWE had no choice but to relocate Mania to a more modest environment if it wanted the event to still go ahead .
In a bid to deliver fresh content to its media broadcast partners at Fox and USA Network , and to continue to meet international TV obligations , WWE had already made the decision to film its weekly broadcasts of Raw and SmackDown without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Orlando , beginning on March 13 .
So if WWE chief Vince McMahon was determined that the show must go on , then it made logistical sense to move WrestleMania 36 to the same venue .
WWE 's recent weekly shows have been a mixture of archive footage and new action , and while there has been a distinct lack of atmosphere sans audience participation , we 've also seen some career performances as far as hype work and in-ring promos are concerned .
John Cena , Bray Wyatt , Edge and 'Stone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us forget about world events at least for a few minutes .
Fortunately , WWE has been rewarded for its determined efforts to reach its TV audience and both Raw and SmackDown received an uptick in the TV ratings , proving that there is serious demand for escapism in these troubled times .
For those wondering why McMahon did n't simply postpone WrestleMania in the same way that has been done with say Euro 2020 , or Glastonbury , it 's worth remembering there 's never been an off-season for WWE , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop the multi-national media juggernaut he created from the seeds of small independent wrestling promotions in the 1970s and 1980s .
`` And you do n't want to get off because if you do , it 's like a merry-go-round .
The merry-go-round keeps going faster and faster .
It 's tough to get back on , '' said McMahon in an interview with the Orlando Sentinel back in 2016 .
If he is still eager to plough on at 74 years of age , why would n't his talent and crew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pinnacle of excellence for WWE performers and those that wrestle on the 'Show of Shows ' are immortalised in the canon of wrestling history .
Still , WWE ’ s enthusiasm for WrestleMania to go on aside , there were more pitfalls and hurdles to navigate in recent days .
The company has come to the realisation that simply airing WrestleMania from an empty venue would seriously impact the entertainment value of matches .
Recent contests on Raw and SmackDown from an empty set have shown just how valuable a crowd is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The second , and perhaps even more significant problem for WWE , is the number of talent and crew required to produce the event .
A standard WrestleMania production utilises a technical crew of around 400 local workers just to build the set , and while that number would be significantly scaled-down for a show at the Performance Center , you still need a team of at least a dozen people to shoot footage , direct said footage , and have live commentary to boot .
This , together with at least 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referees , means that even a mini-WrestleMania is a fairly big public gathering to undertake .
So , to negate this as far as possible , WWE has announced the show will be split over the course of two days , reducing the number of staff and talent needed on the ground at any one time .
The group further announced that a special host had been drafted in , no doubt with the intention of building some atmosphere and holding the general direction of the show together .
In an updated statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for the first time ever , will be held as a two-night event streaming on Saturday , April 4 and Sunday , April 5 at 7 pm ET on WWE Network and available on pay-per-view .
The two-night pop culture extravaganza will be hosted by three-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski .
Tune in to SmackDown this Friday at 8pm ET on FOX to see what Gronk has in store for WrestleMania . ''
Gronkowski made his first WWE appearance at WrestleMania 33 in Orlando , interfering in the Andre The Giant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mojo Rawley to take the victory , spearing Jinder Mahal in the process .
Since then , rumours have swirled that Gronk , a lifelong WWE fan , was ready to get between the ropes on a more regular basis .
Last Friday , WWE revealed it had finally signed one of the most popular athletes in the history of the NFL .
It 's possible that Gronk was already scheduled to host WrestleMania 36 before the pandemic , and , interestingly , WWE has been considering the idea of splitting WrestleMania into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couple of years .
With its own network to broadcast on , WrestleMania has become a seven-hour plus show and although the 2020 version of WrestleMania is unlikely to hit that kind of total running time , this innovation still gives officials and management a forced opportunity to explore this possibility for future years .
Splitting this particular WrestleMania into two parts will also make the TV presentation more digestible for a live audience that is struggling to come to terms with the lack of crowd reaction during matches .
Rival promotion , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WWE 's recent presentations from the Performance Center , was able to place its wrestlers at ringside , to cheer on the action .
This concept , first seen on Wednesday night during AEW Dynamite , could work for WrestleMania as well .
From a production standpoint , this year 's 'Granddaddy of Them All ' will likely feature pre-taped segments , meaning that some matches could be staged ahead of time .
An example on how this concept worked to great acclaim took place at WrestleMania 12 , when Roddy Piper faced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ended up in the arena .
That bout was part taped , part live action .
There 's no reason why that idea ca n't be extended to paper over some of the cracks .
Indeed , WWE is always at its best when pushed up against a wall .
In 1997 , with the company at its lowest financial point due to the crushing competition from WCW , WrestleMania 13 delivered one of the all-time classic matches in Steve Austin versus Bret Hart .
WrestleMania 13 was the company 's worst instalment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but that show delivered standout scenes , still talked about to this day .
By splitting its biggest annual event over two nights , and adding a charismatic three-time Super Bowl winner into the mix , WWE could still bring us those much needed WrestleMania moments .
BT Sport is the exclusive live broadcaster of WWE in the UK .
Watch WrestleMania 36 on BT Sport Box Office WWE on Sunday , April 5 .

Opinion: Mirror Sport's Scott Felstead examines the pitfalls and opportunities awaiting WWE's annual extravaganza now set to be hosted by an NFL legend
WrestleMania is undoubtedly on its rockiest road ever but WWE could be onto a winner with Rob 'Gronk' Gronkowski in the driving seat.
The plans for the annual extravaganza may be changing on an almost daily basis, yet the American company simply won’t submit to Covid-19.
As the worldwide coronavirus pandemic took hold, WWE eventually announced on March 16 that the show in Tampa, Florida was officially off.
An official statement read: "In coordination with local partners and government officials, WrestleMania and all related events in Tampa Bay will not take place.
"However, WrestleMania will still stream live on Sunday, April 5 at 7pm ET on WWE Network and be available on pay-per-view.
"Only essential personnel will be on the closed set at WWE’s training facility in Orlando, Florida to produce WrestleMania."
WrestleMania 36 was set to be staged before a passionate crowd upwards of 70,000 at the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Raymond James Stadium.
The city had bid generously to host an extravaganza that in turn would have generated somewhere in the region of $150m in revenue for the local economy.
As America's health protection agency, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, began advising that public gatherings should be restricted, WWE had no choice but to relocate Mania to a more modest environment if it wanted the event to still go ahead.
In a bid to deliver fresh content to its media broadcast partners at Fox and USA Network, and to continue to meet international TV obligations, WWE had already made the decision to film its weekly broadcasts of Raw and SmackDown without an audience at its Performance Center in Orlando, beginning on March 13.
Image: WWE) WWE)
So if WWE chief Vince McMahon was determined that the show must go on, then it made logistical sense to move WrestleMania 36 to the same venue.
WWE's recent weekly shows have been a mixture of archive footage and new action, and while there has been a distinct lack of atmosphere sans audience participation, we've also seen some career performances as far as hype work and in-ring promos are concerned.
John Cena, Bray Wyatt, Edge and 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin have all made us forget about world events at least for a few minutes. Fortunately, WWE has been rewarded for its determined efforts to reach its TV audience and both Raw and SmackDown received an uptick in the TV ratings, proving that there is serious demand for escapism in these troubled times.
For those wondering why McMahon didn't simply postpone WrestleMania in the same way that has been done with say Euro 2020, or Glastonbury, it's worth remembering there's never been an off-season for WWE, and the boss simply doesn't know how to stop the multi-national media juggernaut he created from the seeds of small independent wrestling promotions in the 1970s and 1980s.
"And you don't want to get off because if you do, it's like a merry-go-round. The merry-go-round keeps going faster and faster. It's tough to get back on," said McMahon in an interview with the Orlando Sentinel back in 2016.
If he is still eager to plough on at 74 years of age, why wouldn't his talent and crew feel the same way? WrestleMania is the pinnacle of excellence for WWE performers and those that wrestle on the 'Show of Shows' are immortalised in the canon of wrestling history.
Still, WWE’s enthusiasm for WrestleMania to go on aside, there were more pitfalls and hurdles to navigate in recent days.
The company has come to the realisation that simply airing WrestleMania from an empty venue would seriously impact the entertainment value of matches. Recent contests on Raw and SmackDown from an empty set have shown just how valuable a crowd is to the overall pro wrestling product. The second, and perhaps even more significant problem for WWE, is the number of talent and crew required to produce the event.
Image: WWE) WWE)
A standard WrestleMania production utilises a technical crew of around 400 local workers just to build the set, and while that number would be significantly scaled-down for a show at the Performance Center, you still need a team of at least a dozen people to shoot footage, direct said footage, and have live commentary to boot.
This, together with at least 20 pro wrestlers, not to mention the referees, means that even a mini-WrestleMania is a fairly big public gathering to undertake. So, to negate this as far as possible, WWE has announced the show will be split over the course of two days, reducing the number of staff and talent needed on the ground at any one time.
The group further announced that a special host had been drafted in, no doubt with the intention of building some atmosphere and holding the general direction of the show together.
In an updated statement, the company revealed: "WrestleMania, for the first time ever, will be held as a two-night event streaming on Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5 at 7 pm ET on WWE Network and available on pay-per-view.
Image: Getty Images North America) Getty Images North America)
The two-night pop culture extravaganza will be hosted by three-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski. Tune in to SmackDown this Friday at 8pm ET on FOX to see what Gronk has in store for WrestleMania."
Gronkowski made his first WWE appearance at WrestleMania 33 in Orlando, interfering in the Andre The Giant Battle Royal and assisting his buddy, Mojo Rawley to take the victory, spearing Jinder Mahal in the process.
Since then, rumours have swirled that Gronk, a lifelong WWE fan, was ready to get between the ropes on a more regular basis. Last Friday, WWE revealed it had finally signed one of the most popular athletes in the history of the NFL.
It's possible that Gronk was already scheduled to host WrestleMania 36 before the pandemic, and, interestingly, WWE has been considering the idea of splitting WrestleMania into two parts for at least the last couple of years.
With its own network to broadcast on, WrestleMania has become a seven-hour plus show and although the 2020 version of WrestleMania is unlikely to hit that kind of total running time, this innovation still gives officials and management a forced opportunity to explore this possibility for future years.
Splitting this particular WrestleMania into two parts will also make the TV presentation more digestible for a live audience that is struggling to come to terms with the lack of crowd reaction during matches.
Rival promotion, AEW, with the benefit of seeing WWE's recent presentations from the Performance Center, was able to place its wrestlers at ringside, to cheer on the action. This concept, first seen on Wednesday night during AEW Dynamite, could work for WrestleMania as well.
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From a production standpoint, this year's 'Granddaddy of Them All' will likely feature pre-taped segments, meaning that some matches could be staged ahead of time.
An example on how this concept worked to great acclaim took place at WrestleMania 12, when Roddy Piper faced Goldust in a street fight, which ended up in the arena. That bout was part taped, part live action. There's no reason why that idea can't be extended to paper over some of the cracks.
Indeed, WWE is always at its best when pushed up against a wall. In 1997, with the company at its lowest financial point due to the crushing competition from WCW, WrestleMania 13 delivered one of the all-time classic matches in Steve Austin versus Bret Hart. WrestleMania 13 was the company's worst instalment from a financial point of view, but that show delivered standout scenes, still talked about to this day.
By splitting its biggest annual event over two nights, and adding a charismatic three-time Super Bowl winner into the mix, WWE could still bring us those much needed WrestleMania moments.
BT Sport is the exclusive live broadcaster of WWE in the UK. Watch WrestleMania 36 on BT Sport Box Office WWE on Sunday, April 5.
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thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Workers face coronavirus 'financial ruin' unless Government bails out wages

Millions of workers face “ financial ruin ” unless the Government steps in with a wages bailout , union chiefs have warned .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak held an emergency meeting with the unions and business groups on Thursday after saying the Government was “ working round the clock ” on a package of measures to help .
But the package is not expected to be published until Friday or Saturday , when thousands of jobs will already have gone .
Sources told the Mirror ministers were considering a “ significant ” wage subsidy scheme to support families and help the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They are thought to be looking at giving workers a minimum pay of perhaps £150 per week , or a percentage of their wages .
But the Treasury is trying to work out how that would operate in practice .
Other options on the table include subsidising wages by freezing income tax and giving national insurance breaks to employers .
Ministers are also under pressure to help millions of self-employed workers .
After the meeting , Frances O ’ Grady , General Secretary of the TUC , said : “ As well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is essential that money goes into workers ’ pockets now .
“ We must do whatever it takes to stop businesses going to the wall and workers being plunged into poverty.
” Carolyn Fairbairn , Director-General of the CBI , added : “ The exponential growth of the economic impact requires an urgent , bold new approach to protect pay and livelihoods.
” Tim Roache , General Secretary of the GMB , said : “ Ministers must not allow workers and their families to go to the wall .
Imagine being on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told that the light at the end of the tunnel is actually thousands more in debt to pay off .
“ It ’ s just not right .
“ Huge numbers of people were covering basic living costs on credit even before this crisis struck .
Suddenly finding income dry up is already pushing people to the financial brink .
Ministers need to guarantee wages.
” Former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown has urged the Government to do “ considerably more ” in the next 48 hours to protect people ’ s jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conference , Boris Johnson said companies should think “ very carefully ” before laying off staff .
Mr Johnson said : “ We do want to stand behind the companies , we do want to make sure that people recognise they should stand behind their staff , because we the British Government are going to stand behind firms.
” But some firms are already hitting staff with big pay cuts .
Holiday giant Tui yesterday told staff that , from April , those required to work will have a 30 % reduction in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working less than 50 % of their hours , or not at all , will receive a 50 % cut .
The GMB is calling for the Government to follow the lead of other countries in guaranteeing wages .
Sweden , like Germany and Austria , is subsidising a shorter working week , halving the costs with employers so workers keep 90 % of wages .
Norway has promised employees 20 days ’ full pay and guaranteed the self-employed 80 % of their recent income .
Denmark will pay 75 % of income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tory MPs are alarmed by the Government ’ s lack of action .
Greg Clark , who was Business Secretary under Theresa May , urged the Government to pay wages for several weeks “ if and only if ” businesses guarantee to keep their workers on .
He said : “ At a stroke this would save jobs , save businesses and put an immediate end to the contagion and help save the economy.
” Sir Bernard Jenkin , chairman of the Commons Liaison Committee , said : “ Those of us who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government are being told by our constituents that , welcome as Tuesday ’ s package was , it ’ s simply not going to be enough.
” Former Welfare Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said ministers should spend more on Universal Credit .
He said : “ UC has three basic levers that could all be pulled now ... to help people who are in work .
This could be done today.
” Treasury minister John Glen told MPs they should “ be under no doubt all models were being examined ” .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposals for a new coronavirus benefit worth at least £151 week .
The Resolution Foundation think tank is calling for a £22billion package to support workers .
It wants a new Statutory Retention Pay scheme .
One million workers would get a flat-rate £151 a week for six months , at a cost of around £3.6bn .
A more ambitious , earnings-linked scheme paying at least two-thirds of a typical salary , would cost around £8bn .
The Foundation says unemployment benefits and Universal Credit should also be increased to £100 per week @ @ @ @ @ @ @

The Government is looking at a workers' financial package but many employees face losing their jobs during the COVID-19 outbreak before the support is announced
Millions of workers face “financial ruin” unless the Government steps in with a wages bailout, union chiefs have warned.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak held an emergency meeting with the unions and business groups on Thursday after saying the Government was “working round the clock” on a package of measures to help.
But the package is not expected to be published until Friday or Saturday, when thousands of jobs will already have gone.
Mr Sunak is set to announce the plan on Friday at the daily Covid-19 press conference in Downing Street, where he is expected to be joined by Boris Johnson.
Sources told the Mirror ministers were considering a “significant” wage subsidy scheme to support families and help the economy bounce back after the crisis.
They are thought to be looking at giving workers a minimum pay of perhaps £150 per week, or a percentage of their wages. But the Treasury is trying to work out how that would operate in practice.
Other options on the table include subsidising wages by freezing income tax and giving national insurance breaks to employers.
Ministers are also under pressure to help millions of self-employed workers.
After the meeting, Frances O’Grady, General Secretary of the TUC, said: “As well as providing emergency support to business, it is essential that money goes into workers’ pockets now.
“We must do whatever it takes to stop businesses going to the wall and workers being plunged into poverty.”
Carolyn Fairbairn, Director-General of the CBI, added: “The exponential growth of the economic impact requires an urgent, bold new approach to protect pay and livelihoods.”
Tim Roache, General Secretary of the GMB, said: “Ministers must not allow workers and their families to go to the wall. Imagine being on the breadline, unable to work and being told that the light at the end of the tunnel is actually thousands more in debt to pay off.
“It’s just not right.
“Huge numbers of people were covering basic living costs on credit even before this crisis struck. Suddenly finding income dry up is already pushing people to the financial brink. Ministers need to guarantee wages.”
Former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown has urged the Government to do “considerably more” in the next 48 hours to protect people’s jobs.
At his daily Downing Street press conference, Boris Johnson said companies should think “very carefully” before laying off staff.
Mr Johnson said: “We do want to stand behind the companies, we do want to make sure that people recognise they should stand behind their staff, because we the British Government are going to stand behind firms.”
But some firms are already hitting staff with big pay cuts. Holiday giant Tui yesterday told staff that, from April, those required to work will have a 30% reduction in basic pay and contracted hours.
Image: Sky News) Sky News)
Those working less than 50% of their hours, or not at all, will receive a 50% cut.
The GMB is calling for the Government to follow the lead of other countries in guaranteeing wages. Sweden, like Germany and Austria, is subsidising a shorter working week, halving the costs with employers so workers keep 90% of wages.
Norway has promised employees 20 days’ full pay and guaranteed the self-employed 80% of their recent income. Denmark will pay 75% of income if the employer pays 25%.
Tory MPs are alarmed by the Government’s lack of action. Greg Clark, who was Business Secretary under Theresa May, urged the Government to pay wages for several weeks “if and only if” businesses guarantee to keep their workers on.
Image: PA) PA)
He said: “At a stroke this would save jobs, save businesses and put an immediate end to the contagion and help save the economy.”
Sir Bernard Jenkin, chairman of the Commons Liaison Committee, said: “Those of us who are not in the engine room of Government are being told by our constituents that, welcome as Tuesday’s package was, it’s simply not going to be enough.”
Former Welfare Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said ministers should spend more on Universal Credit. He said: “UC has three basic levers that could all be pulled now...to help people who are in work. This could be done today.”
Treasury minister John Glen told MPs they should “be under no doubt all models were being examined”. He also signalled the Government would look at proposals for a new coronavirus benefit worth at least £151 week. The Resolution Foundation think tank is calling for a £22billion package to support workers.
It wants a new Statutory Retention Pay scheme. One million workers would get a flat-rate £151 a week for six months, at a cost of around £3.6bn. A more ambitious, earnings-linked scheme paying at least two-thirds of a typical salary, would cost around £8bn.
The Foundation says unemployment benefits and Universal Credit should also be increased to £100 per week, at a cost of £10bn.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--'Queen rallies nation with steadfast coronavirus message'

The Queen rallied the nation with a characteristically steadfast message .
She was right to say that all of us need to change our habits if we wish to protect our loved ones , friends and neighbours .
Her Majesty ’ s calm and measured intervention stands in contrast to Boris Johnson ’ s comments yesterday , when the Prime Minister struck a flippant tone when he said he wanted to “ send the virus packing ” .
Downing Street is leaving questions unanswered and sending out mixed messages .
By telling people to stay away from pubs , restaurants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left millions of retail , leisure and hospitality staff at risk of losing their jobs .
If you put people ’ s livelihoods on the line , you must explain how they will survive financially .
Everyone accepts this is an unprecedented challenge for the Government .
But Mr Johnson risks losing the public ’ s trust if he does not sharpen up his administration ’ s response .
The Windrush scandal failed a generation that helped rebuild this country in the post-war years .
The way they were treated by Home Office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the report by Wendy Williams makes clear , the department was “ institutionally ignorant ” when it came to race .
Innocent people ’ s lives were turned upside down because of the aggressive immigration policy pursued by the Government .
While the apology by Home Secretary Priti Patel is welcome , it does not go far enough .
The report ’ s recommendations must be implemented in full , and that includes ending the hostile environment towards migrants .
If Ms Patel ’ s words are genuine then she needs to prove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first day of spring .
At this difficult time at least we can take comfort from the warmer weather , blossoming flowers and the evening sunlight .

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Voice of the Mirror)

Her Majesty's message about changing our habits to defeat the disease was calm and measured, unlike Boris Johnson's flippant tone when he pledged to 'send the virus packing'
Voice of the Mirror: Queen rallies nation with her steadfast coronavirus message
The Queen rallied the nation with a characteristically steadfast message.
She was right to say that all of us need to change our habits if we wish to protect our loved ones, friends and neighbours.
Her Majesty’s calm and measured intervention stands in contrast to Boris Johnson’s comments yesterday, when the Prime Minister struck a flippant tone when he said he wanted to “send the virus packing”.
Downing Street is leaving questions unanswered and sending out mixed messages.
By telling people to stay away from pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues, the Government has left millions of retail, leisure and hospitality staff at risk of losing their jobs. If you put people’s livelihoods on the line, you must explain how they will survive financially.
Everyone accepts this is an unprecedented challenge for the Government. But Mr Johnson risks losing the public’s trust if he does not sharpen up his administration’s response.
Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Race shame
The Windrush scandal failed a generation that helped rebuild this country in the post-war years.
The way they were treated by Home Office ministers and officials was shameful.
As the report by Wendy Williams makes clear, the department was “institutionally ignorant” when it came to race.
Innocent people’s lives were turned upside down because of the aggressive immigration policy pursued by the Government.
Image: PA) PA)
While the apology by Home Secretary Priti Patel is welcome, it does not go far enough.
The report’s recommendations must be implemented in full, and that includes ending the hostile environment towards migrants.
If Ms Patel’s words are genuine then she needs to prove it in her actions.
Let’s shine on
Today is the first day of spring.
At this difficult time at least we can take comfort from the warmer weather, blossoming flowers and the evening sunlight.


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Meet Britain's volunteer army helping those in need during coroanvirus crisis

Volunteer Ellie Winfield gently places a carrier bag on the doorstep of a semi .
It contains a few essentials , bread , chicken and cheese , but is the difference between peace of mind and worry for a family .
Laura Ross , 41 , is in hospital , suffering a neurological disorder , while her children Charlotte , 21 , and Sam , 10 , are stuck inside the family home in Beeston , Nottingham , self-isolating due to an underlying health issue .
Now there is one less thing for them to worry about as a support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help .
Ellie , 37 , of the Beeston and Chilwell Area Mutual Aid Group , is just one of an army of volunteers doing their bit to help in the crisis .
As her kids Elliot , five , and Emelia , three , wait patiently , Ellie texts Charlotte to say the delivery is there .
Then Ellie , who also volunteers at a food bank , tells me : “ It is really important we care and look after our elderly and vulnerable members of the community.
” For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Messaging from hospital , she says she had hoped an online shopping order would supply her children while she is in hospital .
Laura says : “ Charlotte is self-isolating as she has arthritis and is on immune suppressing drugs .
“ We hoped we would be fine as we managed to get an online delivery slot but a quarter of the shopping didn ’ t come .
“ Thankfully , a volunteer from the group was on hand to help my children .
The group has been a godsend .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping my family while I ’ m in hospital means so much .
“ I am part of the group and I am trying to help with the admin , as I can ’ t physically help.
” Residents across the UK have created support groups via Facebook and WhatsApp to link elderly or vulnerable residents with volunteers who can collect shopping and medication , post letters or even walk the dog .
Paul Swift , 54 , helped set up the Beeston and Chilwell group , which has more than 2,000 volunteers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a van of food and household items ready to be delivered to those in need .
After heading to a local pub we co-ordinate the deliveries and make drop-off plans .
A few elderly residents living alone approach Paul , who matches them with a volunteer living close-by .
After Ellie drops off Laura ’ s groceries , we get smiles and nods of appreciation from other neighbours .
There is a real sense of community .
Later , Paul is due to pick up medication for a mum , for her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the last minute .
Paul explains the woman had found a relative to help .
He says : “ Plans are always changing at the last minute , because people ’ s circumstances can change.
” But he says : “ I have an uncle of 83 and an aunt of 77 with health problems .
I wouldn ’ t like to think of them struggling if they didn ’ t have me .
Not everybody has relatives nearby .
“ We have been posting leaflets through doors so everyone knows we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how much community spirit there is.
” Many others are trying to help out .
A local taxi firm , Nottingham-based DG Cars , is delivering free milk and bread to over-65s and frontline NHS workers .
They have teamed up with a local takeaway and food store , and hope to offer the service every day until the outbreak is over .
The firm says : “ In times like these we all need to come together.
” Elsewhere , people are putting up Christmas lights to bring cheer in the dark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has her lights back on in Tiverton , Devon , says : “ I love Christmas , so any excuse.
” Elisabeth Forsythe , 33 , has hers lit up in Aigburth , Liverpool , and says : “ We need people to feel happy and not fearful .
”

All across Britain, people are reaching out to link elderly or vulnerable residents with volunteers who can collect shopping and medication, post letters or even walk the dog
Coronavirus: Britain's army of volunteers helping those in need during the crisis
Volunteer Ellie Winfield gently places a carrier bag on the doorstep of a semi.
It contains a few essentials, bread, chicken and cheese, but is the difference between peace of mind and worry for a family.
Laura Ross, 41, is in hospital, suffering a neurological disorder, while her children Charlotte, 21, and Sam, 10, are stuck inside the family home in Beeston, Nottingham, self-isolating due to an underlying health issue.
Now there is one less thing for them to worry about as a support group near their home has stepped in to help.
Ellie, 37, of the Beeston and Chilwell Area Mutual Aid Group, is just one of an army of volunteers doing their bit to help in the crisis.
As her kids Elliot, five, and Emelia, three, wait patiently, Ellie texts Charlotte to say the delivery is there.
Then Ellie, who also volunteers at a food bank, tells me: “It is really important we care and look after our elderly and vulnerable members of the community.”
Image: Collect) Collect)
Image: Roland Leon Daily Mirror) Roland Leon Daily Mirror)
For Laura, it has been a lifeline. Messaging from hospital, she says she had hoped an online shopping order would supply her children while she is in hospital.
Laura says: “Charlotte is self-isolating as she has arthritis and is on immune suppressing drugs.
“We hoped we would be fine as we managed to get an online delivery slot but a quarter of the shopping didn’t come.
“Thankfully, a volunteer from the group was on hand to help my children. The group has been a godsend. To know there are amazing people out there helping my family while I’m in hospital means so much.
“I am part of the group and I am trying to help with the admin, as I can’t physically help.”
Image: SWNS) SWNS)
Residents across the UK have created support groups via Facebook and WhatsApp to link elderly or vulnerable residents with volunteers who can collect shopping and medication, post letters or even walk the dog.
Paul Swift, 54, helped set up the Beeston and Chilwell group, which has more than 2,000 volunteers. When we meet up, Paul has a van of food and household items ready to be delivered to those in need.
After heading to a local pub we co-ordinate the deliveries and make drop-off plans.
A few elderly residents living alone approach Paul, who matches them with a volunteer living close-by.
After Ellie drops off Laura’s groceries, we get smiles and nods of appreciation from other neighbours.
There is a real sense of community. Later, Paul is due to pick up medication for a mum, for her poorly son, but it is cancelled at the last minute.
Paul explains the woman had found a relative to help.
He says: “Plans are always changing at the last minute, because people’s circumstances can change.”
But he says: “I have an uncle of 83 and an aunt of 77 with health problems. I wouldn’t like to think of them struggling if they didn’t have me. Not everybody has relatives nearby.
“We have been posting leaflets through doors so everyone knows we are here. This scheme shows just how much community spirit there is.”
Many others are trying to help out. A local taxi firm, Nottingham-based DG Cars, is delivering free milk and bread to over-65s and frontline NHS workers.
They have teamed up with a local takeaway and food store, and hope to offer the service every day until the outbreak is over.
The firm says: “In times like these we all need to come together.” Elsewhere, people are putting up Christmas lights to bring cheer in the dark days ahead.
Gail Challoner, who has her lights back on in Tiverton, Devon, says: “I love Christmas, so any excuse.”
Elisabeth Forsythe, 33, has hers lit up in Aigburth, Liverpool, and says: “We need people to feel happy and not fearful.”


thedailymirror--2020-03-19--Charlotte Crosby 'finds love with new man' after I'm A Celebrity romance

Charlotte Crosby has reportedly found love with a new man after her I 'm A Celebrity romance .
The former Geordie Shore enjoyed a short-loved fling with her campmate Ryan Gallagher after they met on the Australian version of the reality show .
He was her first romance since her split from boyfriend Joshua Ritchie .
But now , it 's said she 's moved on from both break-ups and is dating tattooed hunk Liam Beaumont .
It 's reported Charlotte has been secretly dating the videographer after they met through mutual friends late last month .
According to The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while on holiday in Dubai with her friend DJ Chris Wright .
She hinted at the romance yesterday as she tweeted : `` I wouldn ’ t mind lockdown ... if I was with a certain human being '' .
It 's said the pair have been separated by coronavirus , with Charlotte in self-isolation back home in Sunderland and Liam in Bali .
The publication says he 's a 30-year-old content creator who travels the world making promotional videos for clubs , hotels and bars .
A source said : `` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dubai when Charlotte was on a group holiday with the Geordie Shore girls .
`` They instantly clicked when they met and haven ’ t stopped talking by text ever since .
`` He ’ s got all the qualities her last relationship didn ’ t but they ’ re taking things really slow and just enjoying it .
It ’ s early days . ''
The insider added that the pair are finding it difficult being stuck in different parts of the world .
Charlotte and Josh split last November , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to live with him .
She said at the time : `` Sadly the relationship seems to have broken down .
Hoping we can still remain civil and wish him the best for the future . ''
It was recently reported that MTV had cancelled both of Charlotte 's reality shows - The Charlotte Show and Just Tattoo Of Us .
A source has told The Sun that both of Charlotte 's programmes are to be 'rested ' but there was a possibility they might return in the future .
Do you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033

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The former Geordie Shore star has reportedly been secretly dating tattooed hunk Liam Beaumont after they met through mutual friends
Charlotte Crosby 'finds love with new man' after I'm A Celebrity romance
Charlotte Crosby has reportedly found love with a new man after her I'm A Celebrity romance.
The former Geordie Shore enjoyed a short-loved fling with her campmate Ryan Gallagher after they met on the Australian version of the reality show.
He was her first romance since her split from boyfriend Joshua Ritchie.
But now, it's said she's moved on from both break-ups and is dating tattooed hunk Liam Beaumont.
It's reported Charlotte has been secretly dating the videographer after they met through mutual friends late last month.
According to The Sun, Charlotte met her new beau while on holiday in Dubai with her friend DJ Chris Wright.
Image: charlottegshore/Instagram) charlottegshore/Instagram)
She hinted at the romance yesterday as she tweeted: "I wouldn’t mind lockdown...if I was with a certain human being".
It's said the pair have been separated by coronavirus, with Charlotte in self-isolation back home in Sunderland and Liam in Bali.
The publication says he's a 30-year-old content creator who travels the world making promotional videos for clubs, hotels and bars.
A source said: "They’ve been dating since meeting in Dubai when Charlotte was on a group holiday with the Geordie Shore girls.
Image: charlottegshore/Instagram) charlottegshore/Instagram) Image: liambeauvideo/Instagram) liambeauvideo/Instagram)
"They instantly clicked when they met and haven’t stopped talking by text ever since.
"He’s got all the qualities her last relationship didn’t but they’re taking things really slow and just enjoying it. It’s early days."
The insider added that the pair are finding it difficult being stuck in different parts of the world.
Charlotte and Josh split last November, not long after she had moved to Bolton to live with him.
Image: liambeauvideo/Instagram) liambeauvideo/Instagram)
She said at the time: "Sadly the relationship seems to have broken down. Hoping we can still remain civil and wish him the best for the future."
It was recently reported that MTV had cancelled both of Charlotte's reality shows - The Charlotte Show and Just Tattoo Of Us.
A source has told The Sun that both of Charlotte's programmes are to be 'rested' but there was a possibility they might return in the future.
Mirror Online has contacted Charlotte's representative for comment.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033